North State Journal Vol. 11, Issue 18

For the fans

Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour leads his team in saluting the crowd from the stage following a parade that drew an

fans to downtown Raleigh to celebrate the franchise winning its second Stanley Cup.

Pentagon seeks

$80B from Congress for Iran war

Washington, D.C.

The Pentagon has told senators it needs roughly $80 billion, mostly to cover the cost of the U.S. war against Iran, adding to what is already a sizable military spending boost being sought by President Donald Trump. The White House O ce of Management and Budget has yet to make a formal request to Congress, but Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has been making the rounds on Capitol Hill. Senators became aware of the Iran funding request last week, according to reports.

Robbins among new appointments at USDA

Raleigh

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture

Brooke Rollins announced a series of leadership appointments at the U.S. Department of Agriculture today that includes roles speci c to the department’s Rural Development mission, including for former North State Journal publisher Neal Robbins. Robbins, who has been serving as deputy undersecretary for Rural Development, will now be serving as senior adviser for rural engagement to Rollins. Prior to joining the Trump administration, Robbins worked as an engineer, attorney, consultant and entrepreneur. He served as North State Journal’s publisher after holding a senior policy role in the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality. Robbins earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from NC State University as a Park Scholar. He holds a law degree and an MBA from Wake Forest.

Jackson urges U.S. Senate to reject SNAP cuts the BRIEF this week

Voting bill stalls in NCGA

The legislation would update voting rules, deadlines and oversight

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

North Carolina to be represented at Great American State Fair

The Stein administration pulled out of the America 250 event, citing costs

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — North Carolina will have a 750-square-foot “spotlight” pavilion at the Great American State Fair despite re-

porting over the last week saying North Carolina is one of a half-dozen states to have pulled out of the 250th anniversary event.

Some of the states implied they dropped out over political reasons, but the Stein administration cited cost.

When contacted regarding

RALEIGH — An elections bill working its way through the North Carolina General Assembly that would change various voting laws as well as add oversight has stalled following pushback.

House Bill 958 would alter counting of absentee ballots, voter registration methods, how campaigns report money and how elections are audited after voting ends. If passed, most of the new rules would take e ect in January.

The bill was scheduled for the House Rules Committee last Wednesday but was pulled from the calendar following pushback by Democrats and amendments made in another committee.

The portion of the bill drawing the most criticism grants the state auditor authority to pick counties for postelec-

tion audits for things like election equipment, voter rolls and chain of custody. Those audits would only happen after result certi cation and can’t be used to overturn election outcomes.

The auditing provision resulted in a tense exchange on social media between Gov. Josh Stein and State Auditor Dave Boliek.

Stein issued a statement that in part criticized the bill as making voting harder and creating “mistrust,” speci cally stating it “invites the Auditor and State Board to sow mistrust in elections.”

“Audits work to instill trust and integrity through professional, independent examinations,” Boliek wrote in a direct response to Stein.

“An audit by the North Carolina O ce of the State Auditor examining the processes and procedures of elections would bring transparency and accountability to voters. What sows mistrust is a partisan governor that chooses political

“We need to protect this program and make it easier for seniors, veterans, and working families to put food on the table.”

Je Jackson, attorney general

North Carolina’s attorney general joined 23 colleagues in imploring Congress to restore the bene ts

By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal

RALEIGH — Attorney

General Je Jackson has joined 23 attorneys general to urge congressional leaders to restore Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program bene ts and protections to the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026.

“Over a million people in our state depend on SNAP to a ord groceries,” Jackson said in the press release. “We need

to protect this program and make it easier for seniors, veterans, and working families to put food on the table.”

The letter to the U.S. Senate claims the cuts made are the “largest reductions in food assistance in modern history.” The letter also highlights how the cuts would force families to skip meals, bar access to assistance for working individuals and seniors, and shift costs to state and local governments. The letter further urges the Senate to reject the cuts, which are not reversed in the Farm Bill.

The letter adds that new restrictions will remove eligible participants from SNAP and make it di cult to maintain

It will be worth our while — to think seriously of the things in us — that only God can see. There are sins which are hidden from ourselves, of which our conscience is not aware — our unknown errors. The evil in us which lies too deep to be discovered. There is a “self” in us, which even we ourselves do not see. There are depths of our being — into which our own eyes cannot pierce. You may say that you know of no sins, errors, or faults in yourself, and you may be sincere; still this is not evidence that you are sinless. Our conscience is not the nal court. It is not enough to have the approval of our own heart. There are errors and evils in the holiest life on earth — which only God’s eye can detect. We must ask God to search us, if we would be made clean.

We cannot see our own faults — even as our neighbors can see them. There is wisdom in the wish that we might see ourselves, as others see us — for it would free us from many a blunder and foolish notion.

We are prejudiced in our own favor. We are disposed to be charitable toward our own shortcomings. We make all sorts of allowances for our own faults. We are wonderfully patient with our own weaknesses. We are blind to our own blemishes. We look at our good qualities through magnifying glasses; and at our faults and errors with the lenses reversed — making them appear very small. We see only the best of ourselves.

If you were to meet yourself on the street some morning — that is, the person God sees you to be — you

would probably not recognize yourself.

We remember the little story that the prophet Nathan told King David, about a rich man’s injustice toward a poor man, and how David’s anger amed up. “This man must die,” cried the king. He did not recognize himself — in the man he so despised, until Nathan quietly said, “You are the man.”

We are all too much like David.

If the true chronicle of your life were written in a book, in the form of a story, and you were to read the chapters over — you probably would not identify the story as your own.

We do not know our real self. We do

Court of Appeals sends teen vaccination case back to trial court

State constitutional claims may override federal PREP Act protections

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — The North Carolina Court of Appeals is sending the case of a Guilford County teen given a COVID-19 vaccination without parental consent back to the trial court. The case was brought by Emily Happel against Guilford County Public Schools and the Old North State Medical Soci-

posturing over constructive dialogue.”

After the bill saw pushback and protests, Senate Bill 1087 was led, which removes the audit provision. That bill passed the rst reading and was sent to the House Rules Committee.

Under the bill, the State Board of Elections (NCSBE) would get more exibility in hiring and managing key sta .

NCSBE Executive Director Sam Hayes would be given up to 25 other exempt positions. Hayes told reporters last week that he had asked for more positions as part of the budget bill.

“I wish to thank Rep. Hugh Blackwell, chairman of the Election Law Committee, for his tireless work on House Bill 958 and for allowing the State Board to o er input,” Hayes said in a statement to North State Journal. “I am also grateful to Rep. Pricey Harrison for o ering constructive feedback that has improved the bill.

“I believe this is a good piece of legislation, with several provisions that further strengthen and protect elections in North Carolina. As Chairman Blackwell has stated, HB 958 remains a work in progress, and I look forward to continuing to work with members in a collaborative fashion to see it pass both chambers with strong, bipartisan support.

Exempt positions are typically policymaking and manageri-

ety, the organization that administered the shots for the district.

Happel’s son is Tanner Smith, a Western Guilford High School student who was required to get a COVID-19 test to play sports. Smith, who was 14 years old at the time, was instead vaccinated without parental consent by a clinic worker and despite the teen objecting.

A three-judge Court of Appeals panel issued the 14-page ruling last Wednesday. Judge April Woods delivered the ruling, with Judges Allegra Collins and Je ery Carpenter con-

curring. Woods and Carpenter are Republicans, and Collins, who is not seeking reelection this year, is a Democrat.

Woods’ decision cited two questions the Supreme Court wished the Court of Appeals to address: “whether plainti s’ complaint su ciently alleged that defendant (ONS Medical Society) was a state actor,” and “whether plainti s have an adequate state remedy available for their constitutional claims.”

“We address these two issues as directed,” Woods wrote. “After careful consideration, we conclude Plainti s su ciently alleged state constitutional

al jobs, and that status allows an agency to hire, set pay and make personnel changes more quickly than regular state positions.

An allocation of $1.2 million in recurring funds would create seven new NCSBE leadership positions, including roles such as internal auditor, legislative affairs manager, public information manager, general counsel and human resources positions.

Provisions in the bill include curing of ballots that may be missing required information, which would get a longer x deadline from three business days to ve.

County boards would be allowed to start counting early voting ballots on Election Day but are prohibited from releasing any results before polls close. Leaking early count results before voting

ends would be a misdemeanor. Registration changes would include election o cials being barred from processing a voter registration if a person applying for a license or ID says they are not a U.S. citizen or refuses to answer the citizenship question.

Voters covered under the military and overseas voting law would need a copy of a document like a utility bill showing their North Carolina address when registering and a photocopy of an acceptable photo ID with their ballot. If the ID copy is missing, the voter can cure it before nal certi cation.

People who want to run in a party primary would need to have been registered with that party for a full year before ling instead of the current 90 days. The provision would eliminate

not imagine there is so much about us that is morally ugly and foul, that is positively wicked. But God searches and knows the innermost and hidden things of our heart.

“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”

Psalm 139:23-24

J. R. Miller was a pastor and former editorial superintendent of the Presbyterian Board of Publication from 1880 to 1911. His works are now in the public domain.

claims and remand this matter to the trial court for consideration of those claims.

“The PREP Act does not bar Plainti s’ colorable constitutional claims. Taking all of Plainti s’ allegations as true, we conclude there are su cient legal theories under which ONSMS could be deemed a state actor and there is no other ‘adequate state remedy’ for the alleged constitutional violations.

“Therefore, we reverse the trial court’s order to dismiss and remand this matter to the trial court to determine if Defendants were ‘clothed with the authority of the State’ for

the purposes of a Corum claim and if so whether any claim is meritorious.”

The Court of Appeals ruling follows the North Carolina Supreme Court’s decision, which ruled the case could proceed last March.

The Supreme Court ruling reversed a lower trial court’s dismissal of the case that cited immunity for the defendants under the federal Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness (PREP) Act.

Chief Justice Paul Newby issued the ruling that said the PREP Act’s immunity only covers tort injuries, not constitutional violations, and recognized parents’ fundamental rights to make medical decisions for their children and individuals’ rights to bodily integrity.

Guilford County Public Schools did not respond to a request for comment.

als, and committees can’t have taken more than $10,000 in total from foreign sources over the past four years.

Other changes include:

• Ranked-choice voting would be banned statewide.

what happened in the 2026 primary, when some Democrats switched their a liation to Republican to unseat incumbents. Death records would be checked and removed from voter rolls every week, and the Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) would be required to send voter data to election o cials monthly. The NCDMV has been blocking data requested by the NCSBE over the past year. Under campaign nance, small local candidates could raise and spend up to $3,000 total without ling detailed contribution and spending reports. The current limit is $1,000. Independent spending or certain contributions would generally need to be reported once they hit $1,000 instead of $100, and “48-hour reports” for large, last-minute donations would be $2,000 instead of $1,000. Foreign nationals would face stronger rules against giving money or in uencing referendum campaigns. Referendum committees would have to get written promises from donors that they are not foreign nation-

• NCSBE and county boards would be barred from publicly encouraging people to vote or from taking sides on candidates, parties or ballot measures. During the Election Law Committee meeting last Tuesday, the bill sponsors said this section may be tweaked to di erentiate between actions as an o cial versus a private citizen.

• New statewide checks to identify early voting and mail ballots that should not have been counted, using government databases.

• County board members would get paid $100 per meeting instead of $25.

• Disorderly conduct rules for inside or near polling places on Election Day.

• When drawing or changing local election district lines, the latest o cial U.S. Census numbers must be used instead of estimates.

• Anyone collecting petition signatures would no longer be paid based on the number of signatures gathered.

• NCSBE would study whether signature veri cation technology helps check voter registrations and absentee ballots, with a report due by May 1, 2027.

Dave Boliek,

NELL REDMOND / AP PHOTO

Mecklenburg County Board of Elections workers prepare ballots to be mailed in September 2024 in Charlotte.

PUBLIC DOMAIN

“Paris Street in Rainy Weather” by Gustave Caillebotte (1877) is a painting in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

Charter schools enrollment up, waitlists down

Public charter school enrollment is now 10.5% of all public school enrollment, more than double the percentage from a decade ago

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — The annual report on North Carolina’s Public Charter Schools released this month by the North Carolina State Board of Education shows enrollment is up and waitlist gures have fallen.

The 2026 report says there are 211 public charter schools operating in 67 of the state’s 100 counties. That total would have been higher, however, according to the presentation given to the board, the Charter Schools Review Board opted to close two charter schools midyear.

“Initially capped at 100 schools, the sector saw a signicant turning point in 2011 when the General Assembly removed the growth limit,” the report states. “This policy change triggered a period of rapid expansion; since then, the sector has grown by 113%, reaching a peak of 213 schools at the start of the 2025 academic year.”

Charter school enrollment has more than doubled over the past decade. Ten years ago, the student count was 71,668, or 5% of all public school enrollment.

This year’s report says there are 161,057 students enrolled, which represents 10.5% of total public school enrollment and, taken as a whole, would make charter schools the largest district in the state.

During the 2023-24 school year, there were 153,480 students enrolled across 208 charter schools.

North Carolina’s K-12 public schools have seen drops in average daily membership (ADM) gures over the past few years.

According to analysis of North Carolina Department of Public Instruction’s ADM data, 105 of 115 districts saw enrollment declines, with a statewide drop of about 19,209 students to 1,506,908 in 2025-26.

Districts with large urban areas such as Charlotte-Mecklenburg, Durham, Guilford and Winston-Salem/Forsyth saw decreases of 1,000 or more students. Charlotte’s was the largest drop with a loss of 2,418 students. The state’s largest district, Wake County, reported enrollment losses for the rst time in ve years of around 800 students, dropping total

161K+

North Carolina students enrolled in charter schools

enrollment to 160,500 students.

Waitlists from the previous year topped 74,287 students with some potential overlap in applications to multiple schools. This year’s report cites 59,000 students were on waitlists spanning 138 schools.

On achievement, this year’s report cites 203 of 208 charter schools (99%) achieving at or above 80% in the category of operational and governance annual monitoring criteria.

Two schools had their charters revoked in 2025: Triad International Studies Academy (Guilford County) closed October 2025, and Monroe Charter Academy (Union County) closed December 2025.

Since 1998, there have been a total of 96 charter closures: 24 revoked (typically for compliance or nancial reasons), 55 relinquished, one assumed and 16 nonrenewals.

Charter schools are not the only school choice options

seeing increased enrollment. According to the most recent statistics from the state’s Division of Non-Public Instruction, homeschooling enrollment rose during the 2024-25 year by 4.60%. In 2023-24, there were 157,642 homeschool students. That gure rose by 2,375 students in 2024-25 to 165,243.

The number of homeschools also rose by more than 5,350 over the previous year, going from 96,529 in 2023-24 to 101,880 in 2024-25. Looking back a decade to the 2014-15 school year, there were 67,804 homeschools and 106,853 students.

For private schools, the latest data shows student enrollment rose by 3.32%, going from 131,230 students in 2023-24 to 135,738 in 2024-25.

The number of private schools also increased from 881 in 2023-24 to 930 in 2024-25; a gain of 49 schools. Ten years ago

during the 2014-15 school year, there were 720 private schools and 97,259 students.

In October 2023, the legislature expanded the Opportunity Scholarship program (OSP) through House Bill 259. Then-Gov. Roy Cooper, who had vetoed previous budget bills and attempted several times to defund the OSP, let the measure become law without his signature.

The OSP gives grants on a sliding income scale to students to help pay for the private school of their choice. Lower-income families receive priority for those grants and can receive up to $7,000.

During the 2021-22 school year, 115,311 students were enrolled in a private school. The following 2023-24 school year, that number jumped by more than 9% to 126,768. Between those two years, the number of schools rose from 828 to 884.

Education Department opens latest Title IX investigation into Buncombe County Schools

The probe was opened over males in female spaces

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

RALEIGH — The U.S. Department of Education’s O ce for Civil Rights has opened a Title IX investigation into Buncombe County Schools.

The investigation by the Ofce of Civil Rights (OCR) was opened to nd out whether Buncombe County Schools violated Title IX by “allowing biological men to access girls’ restrooms.”

According to the department’s press release, the investigation was prompted by a parent who had reported “girls in the District are being forced to share their female-only restrooms with biological men.”

“This alleged exposure not only compromises girls’ right to equal access to education opportunities and programs, but it also puts female students in potentially unsafe situations,” the release said.

“Since Day One, the Trump Administration has steadfastly enforced Title IX according to its intended purpose – to protect young women and girls from discrimination on the basis of sex,” said Kimberly Richey, assistant secretary for civil rights. “Even so, we still receive countless complaints from distressed

parents who cannot trust school o cials with the education and wellbeing of their children.

“So long as adults out the law and twist it in the pursuit of radical political ideologies, the Trump Administration will launch investigations, hold schools accountable, and ensure the safety of female students across America.”

Anita Leis, a Buncombe County OB-GYN, spoke about her twin daughter repeatedly encountering males in the bathrooms at their school during

a May press conference at the North Carolina General Assembly. Leis also said districts like Buncombe were ignoring Title IX.

Buncombe County Schools Chief Communication O cer Ken Ulmer responded to North State Journal’s request for comment, writing in an email Buncombe County Schools “follows the law regarding students’ rights ensuring that all students have access to safe restrooms, locker rooms, and other school facilities.”

“Our schools work with all students and families to ensure that every student has access to facilities that meet their needs in a safe and private manner,” Ulmer wrote. “The school system will fully cooperate with the U.S. Department of Education on its inquiry.”

The Buncombe Schools Title IX investigation is the second one opened in North Carolina in the past month.

Earlier in June, OCR announced it was investigating Cabarrus County Public Schools

“Since Day One, the Trump Administration has steadfastly enforced Title IX according to its intended purpose.”

Kimberly Richey, assistant secretary for civil rights

for the same reason following complaints by female students and their families.

In the Cabarrus investigation, OCR said in a press release, “Multiple female students have reported being required to dress and undress in the presence of males and that the District ignored, ridiculed, and dismissed their pleas for protection.”

The Biden administration had altered a Title IX rule, rede ning sex to include “gender identity.” The change in de nition of sex opened the door for males in female spaces as well as sports.

Biden’s Department of Education withdrew the rule change following multiple lawsuits and a federal judge terminating it permanently in a January 2025 ruling.

Despite that ruling, multiple districts across North Carolina adopted the Biden administration’s change, including the state’s largest district, Wake County Public School System.

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The U.S. Department of Education has opened a Title IX investigation into Buncombe County Schools.

NATION & WORLD

Trump unveils new Air Force One

The converted jumbo jet is a gift from Qatar

By Seung Min Kim and Manuel Balce Ceneta

The Associated Press

JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. — President Donald Trump last Friday showed o the new Air Force One, a formerly Qatari-owned jumbo jet that has been converted into the o cial U.S. presidential aircraft.

The new aircraft eschews the Kennedy-era robin’s egg blue exterior of the old plane for a bolder look, with the underbelly of the plane painted navy blue with a red stripe above it. The plane’s left side, where the president boards, features the presi-

President Donald Trump speaks after touring the newly designated Air Force One presidential aircraft at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland last Friday.

dential seal, while the tail of the aircraft has a massive American ag on it.

“This plane was transformed into a ying White House at a level of luxury that nobody has ever seen before,” Trump said from inside the massive Joint Base Andrews hangar, as a couple of hundred assembled Air Force personnel looked on. He spoke after stepping o the new plane in a dramatic ourish, as his signature tune, “God Bless the USA,” played.

He con rmed that he would be taking the new jet to the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, next month and indicated he would be returning to China “at some point,” presumably a reference to the Asia-Paci c Economic Cooperation summit

“This plane was transformed into a ying White House at a level of luxury that nobody has ever seen before.”

President Donald Trump

that China is hosting in November. His return from the Group of 7 summit in France this week was the last planned trip aboard the old Air Force One, he said.

“Now when we land at airports in London and in Germany and di erent places, nobody tops this one, and that’s the way we have to have it for our country,” Trump said, noting that the

colors and the design were to “my taste, I will say.”

He added that the new Air Force One will do a yover during the July 4 celebrations next month.

The gift from Qatar is serving as a “bridge” aircraft to carry the president until the new planes ordered directly from Boeing arrive. That is currently slated for 2028.

The administration formally accepted a luxury Boeing 747 jet from Qatar last year to be used as the presidential airplane, despite questions about the ethics and legality of accepting such an expensive gift from a foreign government. Trump has insisted in the past that he would not y around in the Qatari jet once he leaves o ce and said it would instead be donated to a future presidential library.

Trump said the U.S. was in a “little bit of a logjam” as they awaited the delivery of the new

jets directly from Boeing, which were originally scheduled for 2024 but have been delayed. He recalled asking the emir of Qatar for use of one of their planes.

“See, a normal president wouldn’t do this. A normal president wants to stay away from aircraft,” Trump said Friday. “But our country has to be represented properly.”

The Air Force said in a news release that any plane deemed Air Force One “must meet rigorous security requirements” and that the Qatari plane “was modi ed under a disciplined engineering approach that prioritized these exact core capabilities above all else.” The Air Force also said “much of the previous head of state interior layout” of the plane was kept intact.

The Air Force has said in the past that security modi cations to the jet would cost less than $400 million.

FAIR from page A1

the decision, Gov. Josh Stein’s o ce forwarded questions to the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (NCDNCR), which claimed an estimated cost of $100,000 was the reason.

NCDNCR Communications Director Schorr Johnson said in an email the cost was outside their “normal operating budget” and included “producing materials for a large exhibition space and covering sta travel and accommodation.”

“Our limited resources are focused on America 250 events across North Carolina, including our signature event at the State Capitol in Raleigh on July 4,” Johnson said.

In a subsequent email, North State Journal asked if the Semiquincentennial Committee had been informed and asked about providing funding. Johnson did not directly answer but said the Freedom 250 organizers were informed April 6.

Johnson did say other state entities were invited to participate but declined for “similar budgetary reasons.”

Additionally, Johnson said

JACKSON from page A1

bene ts. The attorneys general argue the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBB) is forcing states to take on billions of dollars in unexpected expenses by passing federal responsibility onto the states.

Jackson and the attorneys general speci cally requested the Senate restore federal legislative reductions made to SNAP bene t levels and funding, ensure further bene ts and eligibility for the program, prevent the shift of federal nutrition assistance cost to the states and strengthen access to nutrition assistance.

The Farm Bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on Feb. 13, passing on April 30 by a vote of 224 to 200. It was then received in the Senate on May 19.

The Farm Bill plans to re -

NCDNCR had advocated for legislative support “since before the public launch in 2024.” Johnson also said, “To date, DNCR has not received any funding from the legislature for our 2026 America 250 events.”

NCDNCR has issued more than $4.05 million in grants to towns and counties for America 250 events between 2023 and 2025.

Sen. Ted Alexander (R-Cleveland), co-chair of the legislature’s Semiquincentennial Committee, told North State Journal he was “very disappointed to learn that” the state had pulled out.

Alexander sent a letter to Stein urging him to reconsider, and NCDNCR set up a “very cordial” meeting with Ann Evangelista, who has been the liaison to his committee for that department.

Alexander said he didn’t know of the state pulling out of the event until recently.

“I can’t speak for the things that (Evangelista) didn’t say, but yes, I did not know about it until the other day,” he said.

“I just thought it was a terrible shame that being one of the original 13 colonies especially, that I

authorize nutrition programs through Sept. 30, 2031. It recognizes the purpose of SNAP as one to give low-income households access to foods that support good health.

The bill additionally allows states to hire contractors to process SNAP applications during times of high demand or staing shortages, with limitations placed to ensure contractors do not have nancial ties to SNAP retailers or are not paid in ways to encourage denying eligibility.

Several SNAP-related authorizations are extended through 2031, which include the authority for Congress to fund SNAP along with anti-fraud and trafcking prevention programs.

A section in the Farm Bill updates the SNAP rules to add animal protein to the list of foods eligible for SNAP nutrition incentive programs and makes SNAP online grocery purchas-

think that this has been planned for some time. And I’m just disappointed that they could not, or they apparently couldn’t, nd the money.”

“I will say that regardless of what the state government is doing, there have been some groups that have stepped up, and I’m very pleased about that.”

Alexander mentioned involvement by Richard Childress Racing, SPEVCO and Great American State Fair North Carolina, a nonpro t set up to ll the void left by the state, adding, “I applaud all three of those groups for doing this.”

Another gure spearheading a grassroots movement to see the state represented at the fair is Lori Khatod, who splits her time between her home in Granite Falls in Caldwell County and Washington, D.C.

In a June 16 press release, Khatod said she learned about the state pulling out six weeks earlier and helped organize an effort to have North Carolina represented with the help of private groups.

Khatod said she was “very surprised” and “deeply disappointed” to hear Stein had pulled

ing a permanent nationwide program.

The Farm Bill does not address prior legislation enacted under the OBBB, which requires states to pay for a share of SNAP food bene ts ranging from 5% to 15%, with the exact percentage tied to the state’s error rate. Error rates are calculated based on overpayments and underpayments made to households.

States are also required to pay 75% of the program’s administrative expenses, an increase from the previous 50%.

Cuts were made to SNAP spending through OBBB, which reduced funding by approximately $186 billion over a decade. The age range for strict work requirements was expanded to include adults ages 18 to 64 (previously 18 to 54). Twenty hours of work per week must be documented by able-bodied

out of an event expected to draw more than 2 million visitors that could possibly bring tourism dollars and business opportunities to the state.

Freedom 250 organizers had indicated to North State Journal that it was up to the state how much they wanted to spend and there was no set cost. Khatod con rmed that organizers told that to Stein’s o ce.

“Whenever they had spoken to the governor’s o ce, they had said that it’s completely up to them how much money they spent,” said Khatod.

She also said organizers told Stein’s o ce they could get sponsorships and donations to support attending the fair.

“So really, it was up to the state,” she said. “No dollar amount was placed towards it.”

Upon hearing the news, Khatod said she, “like any other North Carolinian, just started picking up the phone and making phone calls.”

Khatod applauded SPEVCO for coming on board and providing a custom trailer, as well as Richard Childress Racing, which is providing the No. 3 car and a racing simulator. She also

adults without dependents or bene ts will be lost.

SNAP spending is a ected by the number of participants in the program, which often uctuates due to factors like economic conditions and the program’s requirements for eligibility.

Periodic farm bills are passed by Congress about every ve years to analyze agriculture, food policies and programs before adjusting them accordingly. They contain several titles that focus on spending in areas related to commodities, conservation, trade, nutrition, credit, rural development, research, forestry, energy, horticulture, crop insurance and miscellaneous provisions.

Nutrition titles make up 72% of farm bill mandatory spending, according to the Congressional Budget O ce’s estimate of projected costs for farm

praised Operation Helo, a volunteer-driven disaster relief group in Cornelius, which will be providing a display and venue support.

Khatod also said Freedom 250 organizers were using North Carolina as a “spotlight pavilion” for the fair.

The Great American State Fair will run from Thursday through July 10 on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., stretching from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial. Organizers say there will be exhibits from all 50 states — even those who have pulled out on the state level — plus U.S. territories. In addition to traditional state fair activities, there will be daily themed programming such as Military & Veterans Appreciation Day, and “Engines of Enterprise.” Five national pavilions will have overarching American themes: Made in America, American Heartland, America Innovates, The American Canvas, and Faith & Family. Admission is free with hours starting at 10 a.m. each day that run into the evening. The fair will be open until midnight on July 4.

bill programs for scal years 2027-36.

Nutrition programs in a farm bill include programs such as SNAP, programs in lieu of SNAP, the Emergency Food Assistance Program, the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, Community Food Projects, Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program and Gus Schumacher Nutrition Incentive Program grants.

Farm bills have 10-year budget projections even if they are authorized for less than 10 years. The current estimate for farm bill titles through scal years 2027-36 is $1.374 trillion. A score published by the Congressional Budget O ce indicated the Farm Bill would increase mandatory spending by $162 million through scal years 2026-31. The bill would be budget neutral through scal years 2026-36.

MANUEL BALCE CENETA / AP PHOTO

THE CONVERSATION

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

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EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

Socialists might be doing America a backhanded favor for its 250th birthday

If the American Revolution wasn’t fought to forever separate Americans from such capricious governing power, then what was the point of it in the rst place?

IN JUST OVER a week, America will celebrate its 250th anniversary on July Fourth. A casual observer from any other country or planet would have to assume it must be one of the greatest occasions for celebration by any civilization given the enormous individual and national success for the people of America since 1776.

For a small colonial outpost to become the world’s economic and military superpower in less than two centuries is no small miracle. But the totality of American success can’t be attributed to luck or random chance. There have been hundreds, if not thousands, of major civilizations over history, and perhaps hundreds of thousands of smaller cultures and colonial outposts, that could have become America if luck and chance were the sole determinants of such an outcome.

However, there are those on the left who don’t see America as being much to celebrate.

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani and socialist Democratic primary winners have laid out their plans to replace our existing constitutional democratic republican form of government with their form of extreme socialism, which can only be summarized as total state control by them and their party.

The majority of American voters used to discount such diatribes as mere nonsense by a fringe element of the far left. However, since there is no longer a visible, audible center-right faction of the Democratic Party such as Southern Democrats in Congress to push back against such aggressive socialist positions, the general public is left to assume that the Democratic Party has ceased to

exist as before and is really now the Socialist Democratic Party of America.

It is the recent brazenness of Democratic Socialist primary winners in New York City with their withering criticism of American life and government that should make every voter appreciate the immense gift of freedom the American Revolution gave them. What socialists say and promise to do when elected should drive home the importance of what the American Revolution was all about and what is at stake in every election going forward.

Socialists want to limit the success of any individual and submit their earnings to a de nition of what they think is “fair” and share the rest with America through higher taxes. Make no mistake about it — any equivocation that their higher taxes will only a ect trillionaires such as Elon Musk falls on deaf ears to anyone who knows that is how the 16th Amendment allowing the income tax was sold to the public in 1913. It wasn’t too long before it was expanded to the broader working population.

Instead of hiding behind cloaked references and clever campaign slogans as liberals used in campaigns long ago, perhaps socialists are doing America a backhanded favor on its 250th birthday by clearly staking out their positions in such stark, black-and-white contrast ahead of time for everyone to see.

As hard as it might be for anyone born after World War II to believe, they have been alive for over one-third of the life of America. The American Revolution may seem like a

distant memory to many younger Americans or a storyline from a movie, but it is closer to our collective life together today in relevance and importance than we give credit.

How much di erent is total state control by socialists from decisions made by the king of England before the Revolution? In each case, individual freedom and initiative are replaced or controlled by an outside party with coercive government power to enforce their will to get what they want for their political purposes. If the American Revolution wasn’t fought to forever separate Americans from such capricious governing power, then what was the point of it in the rst place?

John Adams, James Madison and Thomas Je erson often wrote to friends and family after the Constitution was rati ed to say they fretted about the ability of the new government to survive even a few months — much less wildly succeed after those challenging early decades of operation.

Never in their wildest dreams could they have envisioned an American political party, such as modern-day Democrats, embracing government policymaking not too dissimilar from that of a dictatorial king of England.

The more socialist Democrats preach and promise, the more voters in general — but especially the young male Gen Z voters — will understand and appreciate the promises of freedom o ered by conservative Republican candidates if clearly and succinctly expressed. Socialists might actually be doing America a favor by being so crystal clear and adamant about their stated goals this time around.

America through the eyes of European visitors

Americans are rediscovering their love for their country through the eyes of a man who has never seen it before.

OFTENTIMES when someone has lived somewhere long enough, they start to take for granted how good they have it.

It’s understandable in some respects because you get used to the nice restaurants, and the convenience of all the places to visit and shop. Or, if you live in a touristy part of the country, the coastlines, lakes, mountains, prairies, or historic sites that visitors marvel over are things you’ve probably seen hundreds of times.

Sometimes it takes one of those visitors who has never before been in our neck of the woods, nor seen the attractions we take for granted, to make us appreciate them all over again.

Amid the planning for America 250 celebrations, that’s where some Americans are after the in ux of tourists from other parts of the world to the United States to root for their favorite teams in the FIFA World Cup games over the last week and a half. Social media sites have been inundated with videos, photos and other testimonials from visitors to our country who have enthusiastically embraced American culture while bringing a bit of their own to proudly display along the way.

The most viral among them has been a tourist from Germany named Freddy, who

traveled to the U.S. along with two friends to watch his team play. His tweets have captured the attention of a nation, with some Americans rediscovering love for their country through the eyes of a man who has never seen it before.

In one tweet, Freddy wrote, “The vibes are insane. Driving through the great state of Louisiana on our way to New Orleans. It’s crazy how diverse this country is, every day the scenery looks di erent.”

In another, Freddy tweeted pictures of his rst visit to a Bass Pro Shop.

“We found another surreal place on our way,” he observed. “I know some people will say I’m too positive about everything I see, but this place was crazy. They had a shooting range in the store.”

Freddy has gotten so popular that when it looked like he and his friends weren’t going to be able to make it to Canada to watch Germany play due to a ight delay, he was o ered multiple options from a governor and sports celebrities. They ended up making it to the game. Freddy has reportedly even been invited to the White House.

ABC News reported that Scottish fans loved Boston so much that “they drank a Samuel Adams taproom dry” in celebration of “their team’s World Cup return.” Boston

police o cers were seen impressing the Scots with their soccer ball footwork.

Another Scotland fan who traveled to Florida tweeted, “I’m in FLORIDA, and it’s like I’m in Jurassic Park,” noting in a video how many alligators and other wildlife he had seen while driving in the Sunshine State. The state’s governor, Ron DeSantis, responded by writing, “You are just scratching the surface!”

A lot of them have had a big fascination with the size of the steaks served at steakhouses, the large amount of barbecue they get on their plates in states like Texas, and the fact that Mexican restaurants serve free chips and salsa. There have been many thumbs-up and stunned reactions when encountering such places.

Meghan McCain probably summed it up best when she wrote, “Europeans coming to our country for the World Cup and having the best time they’ve ever had and undoing decades of progressive propaganda in a week is *chefs kiss* incredible.”

I could not agree more.

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.

May jobs report shows the summer hiring season started with a bang

More than 500,000 small businesses were created in April, the fth highest on record.

FRIDAY’S JOBS NUMBERS con rm what small businesses already know: The underlying economy is far stronger than the mainstream media and nancial commentators suggest.

Employers added 172,000 jobs last month, unemployment remained low at 4.3%, and previous job gains were revised upward by 93,000. That marks a four- sigma beat over expectations. Job creators are proving the pundits wrong once again.

The May jobs report follows strong ADP private payroll data this week and a spike in employers looking to hire. Taken together, these numbers paint a picture of a labor market that remains remarkably resilient despite months of warnings about economic weakness.

That resilience is especially evident among America’s small businesses.

According to the Census Bureau, more than 500,000 small businesses were created in April, the fth highest on record. Since last year’s Republican tax cuts, small-business creation has been approximately 20% higher than the post- COVID average.

While headlines often focus on market volatility, political uncertainty or in ation concerns, small business owners are focused on what matters most: hiring workers, serving customers and growing their companies.

Drilling down into the report, the leisure and hospitality sector added 70,000 jobs in May, and restaurants and bars added 48,000, signaling a strong start to the summer hiring season.

These businesses are often among the rst to feel economic headwinds and among the rst to bene t when consumer con dence improves. Their hiring surge suggests Americans are continuing to spend, travel, dine out and participate in the broader economy despite high gas prices and in ation.

Good public policy, including tax cuts and deregulation, is helping job creators and consumers overcome these costs. Based on their ongoing hiring, job creators

COLUMN | TANZY WALLACE

seem to realize this time in ation is truly transitory.

When these costs recede, American small businesses will be in position to lead the country into its next economic boom.

Congressional Republicans can help with a reconciliation package that doubles down on last year’s tax cut victories. Republicans’ top tax priority should be indexing capital gains to in ation.

This long-overdue reform would x a quirk in the tax code that unfairly requires small businesses, farmers, homeowners, investors and ordinary Americans to pay capital gains taxes on phantom gains driven solely by in ation.

Under the status quo, Americans face large tax bills when they sell assets, even when the real, in ation-adjusted value hasn’t meaningfully increased. According to the Tax Foundation, one-third of capital gains are attributable purely to in ation.

Small businesses are among the hardest hit. Entrepreneurs who spend decades building a company often nd that a meaningful share of their tax bill is driven not by actual growth but by in ation. Same story for farmers.

But everyday folks are also impacted. According to IRS data, three-quarters of households reporting capital gains earn under $200,000 annually. Homeowners who have bene ted from the surge in housing prices often face a falsely in ated tax bill when they sell.

Indexing capital gains to in ation would unlock capital currently trapped by tax penalties, encouraging businesses, homeowners and investors to sell, reinvest and allocate resources more e ciently, turbocharging the economy. It would be a major win to take back to voters during campaign season and support even stronger monthly jobs gains for years to come.

Alfredo Ortiz is CEO of Job Creators Network, author of “The Real Race Revolutionaries” and co-host of the “Main Street Matters” podcast.

Black American patriots of the American Revolutionary War

For black Americans, the struggle was even more complicated: freedom from British rule, and the hope of gaining liberty.

THE COURAGE , labor, resistance and military service of black American patriots who helped shape the ght for independence during the American Revolutionary War is often overlooked. My interest in this subject began with curiosity. In school, I mostly heard about Crispus Attucks and the Boston Massacre, but I knew very little about the many other black Americans who played important roles in the Revolution. A deeper look revealed black patriots whose names and legacies often went untold or overlooked. I do not attempt to include them all, but I try to honor some of the courageous black men who served as laborers, military support, combat soldiers, spies and mariners.

The American Revolution was a complex war with di erent meanings for di erent people. For the colonists, the struggle was freedom from the British monarchy. For black Americans, the struggle was even more complicated: freedom from slavery, freedom from British rule and the hope of gaining liberty in a nation still denying it to many of them. Black Americans fought on both sides because both the British and the American cause o ered promises of freedom. Through Dunmore’s Proclamation and the Philipsburg Proclamation, the British encouraged enslaved people to escape and join their side. Thousands of black loyalists served with the British, including those in Lord Dunmore’s Ethiopian Regiment. Their decision changed the course of the war, especially in the South, though the outcome did not bring the freedom many had hoped for.

At rst, many colonial leaders feared arming black men, especially enslaved men. In 1775, George Washington initially barred black men from enlisting in the Continental Army. However, when the British began attracting black manpower, Washington recognized the danger of excluding them. In January 1776, he successfully urged Congress to allow free black men who had served to enlist. Eventually, thousands of black patriots served the American cause, with many combat ready.

One of the most important examples was the First Rhode Island Regiment. During the harsh winter of 1777-78 at Valley Forge, the Continental Army was weakened by sickness and desertion. Gen. James Mitchell Varnum proposed forming a regiment that included black soldiers, and Washington approved the plan. Rhode Island declared that enslaved men who enlisted would be immediately discharged from service to

their masters and become free. This decision turned military service into a path toward liberation. At the Battle of Rhode Island, the regiment stood rm against repeated Hessian attacks, allowing the Continental Army to retreat safely. Their discipline and courage became legendary.

Several individual black patriots deserve recognition. Attucks, killed during the Boston Massacre, is remembered as the rst martyr of the con ict. Though he died before the war o cially began, his sacri ce became a symbol of resistance to British tyranny.

Peter Salem served from the opening days of the war at Concord and became known as an expert marksman. He is credited with shooting Maj. John Pitcairn at Bunker Hill. He later endured Valley Forge while also ghting at Saratoga and Stony Point. Salem Poor also distinguished himself at Bunker Hill, where his bravery led 14 o cers to petition the Massachusetts General Court in recognition of his heroism. They praised him as an experienced o cer and excellent soldier.

James Armistead Lafayette served as a brave and intelligent double agent. Working behind British lines, he deceived Cornwallis while secretly providing valuable information to the colonists’ cause. His service helped lead to the American victory at Yorktown.

Wentworth Cheswell, often called “The Black Paul Revere,” rode north to warn others of approaching con ict while Paul Revere rode west. A respected public servant, Cheswell also became one of the rst black judges in America. Oliver Cromwell, a free black soldier from New Jersey, crossed the Delaware with Washington and fought in several major battles, including Trenton, Princeton, Brandywine and Monmouth. Prince Estabrook, a Lexington Minuteman, stood on Lexington Green at the very beginning of the war and was wounded in the rst battle.

The stories of these black American patriots remind us they helped sustain and build the framework of a nation that would become one of the most in uential countries in the world. Their courage, sacri ce and search for freedom deserve to be remembered as part of America’s founding story.

Tanzy Barrow Wallace serves as a public member appointed by the North Carolina General Assembly’s America’s Semiquincentennial Committee.

The great escape — let young workers out of Social Security

WHAT CRUEL irony that we learned last week that Social Security is going broke even sooner than we thought. The Social Security trust fund will be exhausted in 2032, according to the latest Trustees Report. How odd that it is even referred to as a “trust fund” because there is no trust, and there is no fund.

Because of the Ponzi scheme structure of Social Security that only works if you have more young people paying in than old people collecting checks, the system is crashing. Right now, roughly 11,000 Americans are retiring every day (the baby boomers), and only about 8,000 Americans are entering the workforce, thanks to the declining birth rate.

This is why the red ink gets deeper every year and the government won’t even be able to pay the meager bene ts promised.

This nancial trainwreck should have been solved decades ago; it could have, if Congress had allowed all young people to take the 12% snatched from every paycheck and instead invest in the stock and bond market for more than 40 years. If this had happened, people like me who are nearing retirement age (I’m 66 years old) would have about $1.5 million each in our accounts and could collect a monthly bene t three times higher than what Social Security promises to pay.

That would have also made future generations better o because all future liabilities of the system would be eliminated since all future bene ts would come from the personal accounts. There would be no need for bene t cuts or tax increases to keep the leaky boat solvent.

The presidential candidate who rst put this reform on the table was Steve Forbes in 1996 — 30 years ago. Then-President George W. Bush picked the idea and tried to implement it in 2005.

Twenty years ago, this would have allowed young people to have personal accounts for Social Security with the money invested in stocks and bonds. But he got shot down. Nearly every Democrat made crazed accusations that this “privatization” plan would be “too risky.” Uh-huh!

Since then, stocks are only up 725% (including the reinvestment of dividends). Every young person in America would be on their way to being a pension millionaire if we had adopted personal accounts.

We just learned from Elon Musk the awesome power of markets in creating wealth. Imagine if every worker today had been able to own shares of SpaceX. Now, of course, markets go up and down, and we have had several devastating crashes, as we saw in 2008. But every time that happens, the market turns around after a few years and speeds ahead. There has been no 40-year period when stocks and bonds would have performed worse than the tiny bene ts Social Security o ers.

Even a lifetime minimum-wage worker would be a pension millionaire today if they could have invested the money in an index fund. Plus, the more you work, the more money you’d accumulate in your account. You could even leave some of that money in your personally owned account. Isn’t that part of the American dream?

The people in Congress and the left-wing interest groups, such as AARP, who sideswiped this plan o the road owe the American workers an apology. They cost us more than $1 million each. And now they are trapping young Americans in the same retirement bene t plan that pays out roughly $4,000 a month. Good luck making ends meet with that. Have the politicians been to the grocery store lately?

Now what’s even worse is that many in Congress who blocked private accounts 20 years ago want to raise the taxes on young workers for Social Security and cut the bene ts to pay for Washington’s own blunders.

There is a light at the end of this tunnel. It’s too late for my generation — sadly. We were ripped o by government in the worst deal ever: Social Security.

The good news is, it’s not too late for the millennials and the Gen Z 20-somethings to demand a much better deal. End the Ponzi scheme now. Let the young tap into the magical powers of compound interest. Turn their taxes into an investment in America’s future. With world-class entrepreneurs out there like Musk, who would bet against that?

Stephen Moore is a former Trump senior economic adviser and the co-founder of Unleash Prosperity, which advocates for education freedom for all children. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

BE IN TOUCH

Letters addressed to the editor may be sent to letters@nsjonline.com or 1201 Edwards Mill Rd., Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27607. Letters may be edited for style, length or clarity when necessary. Ideas for op-eds should be sent to opinion@nsjonline.com.

Murphy to Manteo Jones & Blount

Buzz-worthy: NC Pollinator Week

National Pollinator Week is June 22-28, and many communities across North Carolina are planning events to celebrate pollinators such as bees, butter ies, moths, birds, beetles and bats. The campaign is led by the Pollinator Partnership to raise awareness about the vital role of pollinators in ecosystems, agriculture and food production.

Across North Carolina, communities, municipalities, schools and conservation groups are hosting educational programs, garden tours, habitat restoration projects, webinars, wildlife surveys and pollinator-themed celebrations. In Charlotte, Pollinator Month activities include garden maintenance events, a pollinator safari, a re y survey and educational workshops. Other communities, such as Carrboro and Apex, are marking the week with o cial proclamations, community events and e orts to expand pollinator-friendly habitats. The 2026 theme emphasizes the importance of host plants and healthy habitats for pollinators throughout their life cycles. Residents are encouraged to plant native owers, reduce pesticide use, create wildlife-friendly landscapes and participate in local conservation e orts.

Some North Carolina events include:

1. Charlotte held “Moth Night” on June 23.

2. Visit Hillsborough’s Pollinator Garden and Bee Hotel during Pollinator Week.

3. Apex will hold an “Afternoon in the Garden” event on June 27 at the Apex Pollinator Garden.

4. The JC Raulston Arboretum in Raleigh o ered a “Build Your Own Bee Hotel” workshop on June 22.

PIEDMONT

O cials warn public after man bitten by rabid fox

WNC warns communities about law enforcement impersonator McDowell County Authorities are warning the public about reports of possible impersonation of law enforcement in western North Carolina counties. The McDowell County Sheri ’s O ce is sending a notice to the public after a report of someone impersonating law enforcement near the McDowell County/Avery County line on U.S. 221 North, near Linville Mountain. On Monday, the McDowell County Sheri ’s O ce said the incident occurred last week, when someone reported being stopped by a person driving an unmarked dark- colored SUV with a blue light in the dashboard, which activated when the tra c stop was initiated. According to the report, the suspect was armed with a rearm, Taser and handcu s, did not display a badge, and the SUV didn’t have proper law enforcement markings or tags. The sheri ’s o ce adds that the suspect “unlawfully” searched the driver and vehicle.

WBTV

LIGHTNING

Rockingham County Health o cials are urging people to stay away from animals behaving unusually after a rabid fox was found in Rockingham County. The Rockingham County Department of Health and Human Services said the fox was captured near Highway 770 near Stoneville. O cials encourage people to be aware of their surroundings and stay away from animals behaving erratically. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal and don’t know its vaccination history, o cials advise you to wash the wound immediately and contact a doctor.

WFMY

Community rallies around autistic teen struck by van Yadkin County

An 18 -year- old Yadkin County teen is beginning a long recovery after being hit by a van last week in East Bend. Carl Jenkins, who has autism, was left with life -threatening injuries after being hit after running onto Forbush Road. The driver is not facing charges. Jenkins was rushed to a hospital in Winston- Salem, where he is being treated for traumatic injuries to his brain, lung, pelvis, leg and vertebrae, and remains unconscious.

WXII

Mother sentenced in re that killed her 3 children

Guilford County A Greensboro mother has pleaded guilty and has been sentenced to a minimum of 30 years to a maximum 36 years in prison in connection with the deaths of three of her children, who died in a house re in 2022. Brandi Sturdivant was previously charged with three counts of second- degree murder in the deaths of her three children and felony child abuse related to multiple instances of Child Protective Services calls and neglect. According to o cials, neighbors, not Sturdivant, were the ones who called 911 and tried to help as the re spread. When detectives arrived to investigate potential arson, they found Sturdivant did not have any burns or injuries as a result of the re. O cials said Sturdivant’s 1-year- old twins and a 4 -year- old died in the re and were found huddled together and completely burned. Autopsies found the children died from smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning.

NSJ

EAST

Employees sickened by mystery substance, business brie y closed

Carteret County

A Newport consignment store closed brie y Monday as emergency crews identi ed and eliminated the source of a hazardous materials incident that sickened several employees. The incident occurred at the building housing Second Go Round Consignment Shop on U.S. Highway 70. According to emergency responders, seven employees reported symptoms including watery eyes, runny noses, sore throats and coughing. One employee was transported to a hospital after experiencing respiratory distress. O cials determined an odorless, colorless substance appeared to be causing respiratory irritation but did not release the source.

WCTI

Man sentenced in child rape on Camp Lejeune

Methodist University names new president

Cumberland County A new president has been named at Methodist University, o cials announced last week. Suzanne Blum Malley was appointed by the board of trustees as the sixth president of Methodist University, a position she will assume at the start of the next school year, July 1, 2027, university o cials said. According to a press statement, Blum Malley will succeed President Stanley T. Wearden, who will retire in 2027 after leading the university for more than eight years.

Onslow County A Fayetteville man has been sentenced to more than 30 years in prison after being convicted of sex crimes involving a 9 -year- old girl at Camp Lejeune. A federal judge sentenced 41-year- old David Mayes after a jury found him guilty in March of the aggravated sexual abuse of a child while on the military base. Documents say the man raped the severely autistic, nonverbal child while he was visiting her family at the Marine Corps base. The victim’s mother came home early and found her daughter’s door closed. Alarmed, she opened the door and caught the man in the act, according to a news release. Prosecutors say they found Mayes’ ngerprints on a tub of petroleum jelly that was in the victim’s room and her DNA on the man. “We will always ght to protect the heroes aboard Camp Lejeune and their mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives by stomping out spiders like this,” U.S. Attorney Ellis Boyle said in a press statement.

NSJ

“Their victory uni ed the state, bringing together North Carolinians who hail from every corner of the state and who cheer for their own favorite college team.” Gov. Josh Stein

‘Toy Story 5’ rakes in biggest box-o ce debut of year with franchise-best $160M

“Michael” earned another $2.2 million over the weekend

By Jake Coyle The Associated Press

NEW YORK — “Toy Story” still has a friend in moviegoers.

The fth installment in the Pixar series debuted with $160 million in domestic ticket sales, according to studio estimates Sunday, easily setting a new franchise record and notching the biggest opening weekend of the year.

Launching 31 years after the original “Toy Story” rst landed in theaters, “Toy Story 5” far surpassed the previous series-best debut: $120 million for “Toy Story 4” in 2019. Internationally, it was just as successful, with $152 million in opening-weekend sales for a worldwide haul of $312 million.

The “Toy Story” franchise is one of the most pro table for The Walt Disney Co. Before “Toy Story 5” launched — the movies had collectively grossed more than $3 billion while also pulling in billions from merchandising.

Though the series seemed to reach a conclusion with 2010’s “Toy Story 3,” the decision to revive the franchise almost a decade later — while controversial — has been extremely lucrative.

“Toy Story 4” exceeded $1 billion in ticket sales, and “Toy Story 5” is all but certain to as well.

Among animated lms, only 2018’s “Incredibles 2” had a bigger opening weekend ($182.7 million) than “Toy Story 5.”

These toys aren’t cheap

Keeping the “Toy Story” movies going has gotten more expensive, though. The fth movie cost $250 million to make, not including marketing. It returns a voice cast led by Tom Hanks (as Woody), Tim Allen (as Buzz Lightyear) and Joan Cusack (as Jessie).

In the sequel, the toys are pushed aside when Bonnie gets a new tablet. It’s directed by Andrew Stanton, the Pixar veteran who helmed “Finding Nemo” (2003) and “WALL-E” (2008).

“Toy Story 5” also features a new song by Taylor Swift, “I Knew It, I Knew You.”

After its chart-topping de-

but, Steven Spielberg’s “Disclosure Day” slipped to second place with $17 million in its second weekend. That’s not the hold that Universal Pictures was hoping for. Dropping 61% from its rst weekend suggests “Disclosure Day” might not nd the legs Spielberg’s sci- thriller needs to break out this summer.

Still, the $115 million-budgeted movie, starring Emily Blunt, Josh O’Connor and Colman Domingo, has grossed $160.4 million globally in two weeks.

“Toy Story 5” faced little competition from newcomers.

“Robin Hood” misses bullseye

A24’s “The Death of Robin Hood,” a violent revisionist approach to the old legend, opped with $2.6 million on 1,762 screens. The lm, starring Hugh Jackman and directed by Michael Sarnoski, was modestly budgeted at $20 million. But

‘Toy Story 5’ delivers familiarity, laughs; still worst in franchise

The movie is concentrated on Jessie the Cowgirl

By Bob Garver The Sun

SIMPLY PUT, “Toy Story” is my favorite movie franchise of all time. The 1995 original about cowboy doll Woody (Tom Hanks) ghting for relevance against high-tech spaceman action gure Buzz Lightyear (Tim Allen) was a groundbreaking rst for computer animation — not to mention about the most fun a kid could possibly have at a theater … until three worthy sequels came along. I’ve seen the original six times in theaters — my personal record. I was disappointed that “only” the third lm in the series was nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars. I didn’t think that 2019’s “Toy Story 4” was in any way a step down from its predecessors. And yet here I am, saying that “Toy Story 5” is the rst signicant misstep in the franchise (not counting 2022’s sorta-spino “Lightyear,” which I’d like to banish to in nity and beyond).

Despite all the emphasis on the Woody/Buzz reunion in the lm’s advertising, the main character of this movie is Jessie the Cowgirl (Joan Cusack), a doll companion of Woody’s introduced in the second movie, where she shared a tragic backstory of being abandoned by her human owner. Now owned by 8-year-old Bonnie (Scarlett Spears), along with Buzz and other familiar gures, Jessie spends her days as the youngster’s favorite plaything. But Bonnie has a hard time making human friends despite the toys’ best e orts to add to the number of children playing in the house. Her parents decide the best way to connect with other kids in the neighborhood is to get her on social media, which is why they present her with frog-themed tablet LilyPad (Greta Lee). Soon, Bonnie is addicted to the screen, “socializing” with so-called friends that aren’t in the room, and the cowgirl has to ght for relevance against the hightech newcomer.

The lm ba ingly never really comments on the parallels to the rst movie. Couldn’t Woody say,

“To me, this is a hybrid summer, and this could be the new blueprint for how you build the perfect summer box-o ce beast.”

Paul Dergarabedian, Rentrak

after nding mixed reviews, audiences didn’t go for the movie, either. It earned a “C+” CinemaScore.

The top horror choice remained “Obsession,” the microbudget phenomenon by 26-year-old Curry Barker. In its sixth weekend, it nearly equaled its $17 million opening weekend from mid-May. The Focus Features release, which cost less than $1 million to make, added $14.2 million to bring its domestic total to $215.8 million and its global haul to $333.3 million.

With “Toy Story 5” and “Obsession” driving sales, the summer box o ce is up 15% from the 2025 summer, according to Rentrak. More impressively, summer ticket sales are nearly equal to the 2019 summer at the same point, not accounting for in ation. The summer to date is just 1.9% down from that year.

Paul Dergarabedian, head of marketplace trends for Rentrak, expects Hollywood is heading for its best summer since before the pandemic. And the success is coming from both expected and unexpected places.

“To me, this is a hybrid summer, and this could be the new blueprint for how you build the perfect summer box-ofce beast,” says Dergarabedian. “You throw in a mix of very eclectic lms and not just the usual suspects — the big franchise lms, the known brands — but also lms like ‘Backrooms’ and ‘Obsession’ and original lms like ‘Disclosure Day.’”

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 Rentrak.

1. “Toy Story 5,” $160 million

2. “Disclosure Day,” $17 million

3. “Obsession,” $14.2 million

4. “Backrooms,” $7.3 million

5. “Scary Movie,” $6.7 million

6. “Masters of the Universe,” $5.6 million

7. “Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu,” $3.9 million

8. “Leviticus,” $2.7 million

9. “The Death of Robin Hood,” $2.6 million

10. “Michael,” $2.2 million

“I’ve been through this before” or Buzz ask, “Is this what it was like for you?” as he’s being replaced by something ashier? For all its reliance on nostalgia, the lm is missing a lot of potential for callbacks here.

A sleepover for Bonnie organized by LilyPad turns disastrous for Jessie, and she nds herself rejected, abandoned and returned to the home of her original owner. There’s a bright girl named Blaze (Mykal-Michelle Harris) living there now, but she has no time for her — Jessie has to get back to Bonnie. And the only way to do that is with the help of nearly dead electronic potty-training device Smarty Pants (Conan O’Brien), even though Jessie is averse to all tech. Meanwhile,

a reunited Buzz (who wants to marry Jessie) and Woody (taking a break from his life as “lost toy”) organize a rescue e ort that will eventually lead them to a whole squadron of lost Buzz gures. The emphasis on helping humans make human friends is a nice touch, but too much of the movie is just a series of par-forthe-course toy rescues, overly familiar jokes, bickering or throwaway lines given to returning characters just to remind viewers that they’re still alive (as toys go). Even heavy emotional moments are hit and miss, with one at a tree being suitably e ective, but others (usually involving bullying) feeling like the writers just needed a “down” story beat. It’s also worth mentioning that the

Tom Hanks, left, and Tim Allen pose for photographers with characters Woody and Buzz Lightyear upon arrival at a launch event for the lm “Toy Story 5” in London.

usually bright, agreeable, e ective animation is often murky and ugly here, and not in a “haunting” way, more in a “shoddy” way. Don’t get me wrong, I’m recommending “Toy Story 5.” This franchise on its worst installment is better than a lot of franchises on their best. There is enough heart and laughter and creativity here to save it … but just barely. And for someone like me who puts “Toy Story” on a pedestal, a movie that I can “just barely” recommend is a big disappointment.

Grade: B-

“Toy Story 5” is rated PG for some thematic elements and rude humor. Its running time is 102 minutes.

EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Camila Mendes, left, and Nicholas Galitzine attend a special screening of “Masters of the Universe,” which brought in $5.6 million at the box o ce last week.

MILLIE TURNER / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Canes celebration

Nearly a week after winning the Stanley Cup for the rst time in 20 years, the Carolina Hurricanes showed o their trophy with a parade through Raleigh. An estimated 180,000 people gathered to pay tribute to the magical season.

PHOTOS BY DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

CUMBERLAND

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice

25E000075-250

The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Ella Jeanne Arno, 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 11th day of September 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 is the 11th day of June 2026. Jennifer L. Arno, Administrator of the Ella Jeanne Arno Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street

Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600

Publish: 06/11, 06/18, 06/25, 07/02

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice

26E000833-250

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Bobby Ray Barefoot Sr., 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 18th day of September 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 is the 18th day of June 2026. Sue Barefoot, Executor of the Bobby Ray Barefoot, Sr. Estate Haymount Law, PC

Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street

Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600

Publish: 06/18, 06/25, 07/02, 07/09

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Wilbert Barefoot, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Caroliina, this is to notify all persons, rms, and corporation having claims against Wilbert Barefoot to present their claims in care of the undersigned Executor at the below address shown on or before September 10, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, rms and corporation indebted to Wilbert Barefoot, please make immediate payment to the Estate of Wilbert Barefoot.

This the 4th day of June, 2026. Name of Fiduciary: Sylvia B. Maxwell Fiduciary Capacity: Executor ESTATE OF WILBERT BAREFOOT, Deceased Sylvia B. Maxwell 600 Carolina Village Road, Apt. 279 Hendersonville, NC 28792 PUBLISH ON THE FOLLOWING DATES: June 4, 2026, June 11,2026, June 18, 2026 and June 25, 2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor/Administrator of the Estate of Michael David Batson, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, hereby noti es all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the September 11, 2026 deadline, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment.

This the 11th day of June 2026. Jacob Lee Michael Batson, Personal Representative 1235 Tom Starling Road, Fayetteville, NC 28306 Estate of Michael David Batson, Deceased Notice to Creditors

The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Su K Bowman, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, hereby noti es all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 18th day of September, 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 18th day of June, 2026 Paul Bowman, Administrator PO Box 25361 Fayetteville, NC 28314 Of the Estate of Su K Bowman, Deceased NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA

CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NUMBER: 26E000809-250 In the Matter of the Estate of: BETSY POYTHRESS LITTLE Deceased.

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Betsy Poythress Little, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before September 25, 2026 (which is three (3) months after the day of the rst publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. THIS the 25th day of June, 2026.

Amanda Paige Little Executor of the Estate of Betsy Poythress Little, Deceased c/o J. Thomas Neville Yarborough, Winters & Neville, P.A.

P.O. Box 705 Fayetteville, NC 28302-0705

Publish: 06/25/2026, 07/02/2026, 07/09/2026 and 07/16/2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File No. 26E000303-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of ERIC ALAN GORE, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 4th day of September, 2026 (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 4th day of June, 2026. Erica Marie Gore Administrator of the Estate of Eric Alan Gore 121 Aviation Way Lebanon, TN 37090 910-920-5856 NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E000820-250 The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Ronald Edward Hayes, 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 25th day of September 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 is the 25th day of June 2026. Donna Hayes, Administrator of the Ronald Edward Hayes Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA County of Cumberland In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File # 26E000973-250 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: Daniel Madison Horne Executor’s Notice The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Daniel Madison Horne, 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 25th day of September, 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 asked to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 25th day of June, 2026. Daniel M. Horne, Jr., Executor. 5001 Munger Lane Hickory, NC 28602 Of the Estate of Daniel Madison Horne, Deceased

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION

State of North Carolina Cumberland County In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Auvella Jacobs (Petitioner) v. Nicole Morris, Natasha Williams, and Justin E. Gaskins (Respondents) File No. 24E000466-250

To: Justin E. Gaskins 7601 Mount Latora, Apt B El Paso, TX 79904

Take notice that an Estate Proceeding seeking relief against you has been led in the above-entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is a Motion in the Cause to le the Final Account without a Receipt and Refunding Agreement signed by Natasha Williams. You are required to make a defense of such pleading no later than August 4, 2026, which is forty (40) days from the rst date of publication. Upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service against you will apply to the Court for the relief sought. This the 25th day of June 2026. By: Eric M. Ditmore, Esq. Attorney for Petitioner Haymount Law 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 (910) 672-4600 Publish: 06/25, 07/02, 07/09

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E000816-250 The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Benjamin Franklin Jones, Jr., 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 18th day of September 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 is the 18th day of June 2026. Kaley Franklin, Administrator of the Benjamin Franklin Jones, Jr. Estate Haymount Law, PC Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 06/18, 06/25, 07/02, 07/09

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA

CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

Administrator’s Notice 26E000849-250

The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Grace Elizabeth Jones, 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 4th day of September 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 is the 4th day of June 2026.

Karla Dunigan, Administrator for Grace Elizabeth Jones Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600

Publish: 06/04, 06/11, 06/18, 06/25

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA

CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NUMBER: 26E000861-250

In the Matter of the Estate of: JAMES DARRELL, JR. Deceased. EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of James Darrell, Jr., deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before September 18, 2026 (which is three (3) months after the day of the rst publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. THIS the 11th day of June, 2026.

Bernard Jerome Darrell, Administrator of the Estate of James Darrell. Jr., Deceased c/o J. Thomas Neville Yarborough, Winters & Neville, P.A.

P.O. Box 705 Fayetteville, NC 28302-0705

Publish: 06/18/2026, 06/25/2026, 07/02/2026 and 07/09/2026

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA

CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

Administrator’s Notice

26E000969-250

The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Jewell Vinson Lunsford, 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 25th day of September 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 is the 25th day of June 2026. Ivy Janel Lunsford, Administrator of the Jewell Vinson Lunsford Estate Haymount Law 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4601

Publish: 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA

CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

Administrator’s Notice

26E000755-250 The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Lisa M. Marchant, 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 4th day of September 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 is the 4th day of June 2026. John Warok, Executor for Lisa M. Marchant Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600

Publish: 06/04, 06/11, 06/18, 06/25

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

ESTATE FILE NO. 26E000790-250

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND

Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Rubin Wayne McLaurin, 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 September 18, 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 18th day of June, 2026. Tonya McLaurin Page, Administrator of the Estate of Rubin Wayne McLaurin

NICOLE A. CORLEY

MURRAY & CORLEY, P.A.

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

COUNSEL FOR ADMINISTRATOR

ADMINISTRATOR’S

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File #26E000870-250

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA County of Cumberland

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of John H. Morrison, John Henry Morrison, deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 4th day of September, (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 4th day of June 2026. Betty Morrison 511 Canyon Court Fayetteville, NC 28303 Executor of the estate of John H. Morrison, John Henry Morrison, Deceased

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as the representative of the Estate of Mrs. Darlene S. Myrick, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the Estate of Mrs. Darlene S. Myrick, who died on March 17, 2026, to present their claims to the undersigned representative on or before the deadline (September 18, 2026) required by law, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the Estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. Claims and correspondence should be directed to: Mr. Gordon Myrick 7864 Loxley Drive Fayetteville, NC 28314 Email: cml7gee@aol.com Representative of the Estate of Mrs. Darlene S. Myrick

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E000989-250 The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Ellen Jacobs Smith, 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 25th day of September 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 is the 25th day of June 2026. Bryan W. Spencer, Administrator of the Ellen Jacobs Smith Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA

CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E000795-250

The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Amos D. Simpson, 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 25th day of September 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 is the 25th day of June 2026. Clifton D. Simpson, Administrator of the Amos D. Simpson Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File # 26E000938-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND The undersigned having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Herbert August Schroer, Jr., Deceased of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before September 25, 2026 at 505 Wallace Way, Lexington, South Carolina 29073, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 25th day of June, 2026 Jessica Caitlin Schroer, Executor Estate of Herbert August Schroer, Jr., deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC Post O ce Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305 (910) 485-8899 06/25/2026, 07/02/2026, 07/09/2026, 07/16/2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA Cumberland COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Estate File #26E000863-250

Executor’s Notice Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Jesus Guadalupe Sandoval, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, hereby noti es all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claims to the undersigned on or before the 4th day of September 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the rst publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 30th day of May, 2026. Carmen Sandoval, 928 Orchard Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28303, Executor of the estate of Jesus Guadalupe Sandoval, deceased June 4, 11, 18, 25, 2026

Administrator’s / Executor’s Notice State of North Carolina County of Cumberland IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Estate File #26E000868-250 The undersigned, having quali ed as Elyse Lynette Roach of the Estate of Ellis Leonard Roach, 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

the Estate of Dorothy Howell Ray, 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 4th day of September 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 is the 4th day of June 2026. Alice Marie Shipman Fozard, Executor for Dorothy Howell Ray Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600

TAKE NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 26E000958-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Florence Orion Olive, 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 September 25, 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 25th day of June, 2026. Stephen E. Gaynos, Executor of the Estate of Florence Orion Olive NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY & CORLEY, P.A. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR

EXECUTOR’S NOTICE

In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File # 26E000878-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND The undersigned having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Ronald Gregory Stewart, Deceased of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having

of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to Janice H. Southard, Executor of the Estate of Jolene C. Hopper a/k/a Jolene Cain Hopper, at 4166 Cedar Creek Road, Fayetteville, NC 28312, on or before the 25th day of September, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of Jolene C. Hopper a/k/a Jolene Cain Hopper are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above. This the 25th day of June, 2026. Janice H. Southard, Executor of the Estate of Jolene C. Hopper a/k/a Jolene Cain Hopper

Williford McCauley - Attorney for the Estate of Jolene C. Hopper a/k/a Jolene Cain Hopper Mailing address: P. O. Box 53606 Fayetteville, NC 28305 Physical address: 235 Green Street Fayetteville, NC 28301

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA

In The General Court Of Justice County of Cumberland Superior Court Division Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice The undersigned, having quali ed as the Administrator of the Estate of Myrtle Parker. 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 __25th__ day of September 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_22nd day of June 2026 LINDA D BRIDGES / Administrator 1808 Olympia Court Fayetteville North Carolina 28301 Of the Estate of Myrtle Parker, Deceased; December 05,2025

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

ESTATE OF MARY JEAN STUARD CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 26E000146-250

All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Mary Jean Stuard, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are noti ed to present their claims to the Administrator Davis W. Puryear on or before the 5th day of September, 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 29th day of May, 2026. Davis W. Puryear Administrator of the Estate of Mary Jean Stuard Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: June 4, June 11, June 18 and June 25, 2026

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 25E000851-250

The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Bruce Christopher Thompson, Sr., 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 11th day of September 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 is the 11th day of June 2026. Shawanda Thompson, Administrator of the Bruce Christopher Thompson, Sr. Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600

Publish: 06/11, 06/18, 06/25, 07/02

NEW HANOVER

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE UNDERSIGNED, Monica A. Carroll, having quali ed on the 3rd day of June, 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Marilyn F. Collins (26E000657-640), 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 14th day of September, 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 11th day of June 2026. Monica A. Carroll Executor ESTATE OF MARILYN F. COLLINS David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411

Publish: June 11, 2026 June 18, 2026 June 25, 2026 July 2, 2026

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE UNDERSIGNED, LeeAnn G. Hocker, having quali ed on the 12th day of June, 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Pamela D. Gontz (26E000684-640), 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 21st day of September, 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 18th day of June 2026.

LeeAnn G. Hocker Executor ESTATE OF PAMELA D. GONTZ David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411

Publish: June 18, 2026 June 25, 2026 July 2, 2026 July 9, 2026

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE UNDERSIGNED, Je rey P. Hamill, having quali ed on the 29th day of May, 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Jo A. Hamill (26E000635-640), 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 14th day of September, 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 11th day of June 2026. Je rey P. Hamill Executor ESTATE OF JO A. HAMILL David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411

Publish: June 11, 2026 June 18, 2026 June 25, 2026 July 2, 2026

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, KENDRIC MURPHY having quali ed as the Administrator of the Estate of LORETTA BRADLEY MURPHY, Deceased, hereby noti es all persons, rms or corporations

JR. 219 RACINE DR., SUITE #A6 Wilmington, NC 28405

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, HEATHER LYNN JERNIGAN having quali ed as the Executor of the Estate of THOMAS GRADY PRESLEY, JR, Deceased, hereby noti es all persons, rms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said HEATHER LYNN JERNIGAN, at the address set out below, on or before September 18, 2026, or this notice may be pleaded in bar of

SOLUTIONS FROM LAST WEEK

NBA Draft preview, B3

the Thursday SIDELINE REPORT

GOLF

Niemann penalized for throwing club at U.S. Open

Southampton, N.Y.

Joaquin Niemann’s bad rst round of the U.S. Open became even worse. He was given a two-shot penalty for throwing a club on the sixth hole at Shinnecock Hills. That turned his 9 on the hole into an 11. He wound up with 78. It’s the latest example of golf trying to crack down on bad behavior. The USGA has a code of conduct policy.

WORLD CUP

Canada’s Koné to undergo surgery after gruesome injury against Qatar

Vancouver, British Columbia Canada’s historic rst World Cup victory was overshadowed by a gruesome injury to mid elder Ismaël Koné. He injured his left leg after Qatar mid elder Assim Madibo tackled him from behind. Madibo was sent o , and Koné was stretchered o and taken to a hospital for surgery.

MLB

MLB owners propose banning high school signings, adding international draft New York Baseball owners proposed banning high school players from signing with major league teams, raising the age for international amateurs and slashing the money spent on signing bonuses in negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement. The amateur draft for players residing in the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico would be cut from 20 rounds to 12 beginning in 2027. An identical 12-round draft would be started for international prospects.

Hurricanes, fans celebrate Stanley Cup

Saturday’s parade drew an estimated 180,0000 to downtown Raleigh

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal

RALEIGH — The Carolina Hurricanes celebrated winning the franchise’s second Stanley Cup in Las Vegas, both on the ice and on the Strip.

On Saturday, they nally got to celebrate with their fans.

A celebratory parade in downtown Raleigh drew an estimated 180,000 revelers to o cially welcome the team and the Stanley Cup back to Raleigh.

The parade wound through downtown of North Carolina’s capital and ended at City Plaza on Fayetteville Street with

a rally where several of the players, Gov. Josh Stein, GM Eric Tulsky and coach Rod Brind’Amour spoke to a crowd that stretched to the North Carolina State Capitol Building and beyond.

“I’m in shock,” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour, who captained the franchise to its rst Stanley Cup 20 years earlier, said of the crowds. “It doesn’t happen very often, but I’m just kind of speechless. I did not expect that.”

In the six days after the Hurricanes defeated the Golden Knights 3-0 in last Sunday’s Game 6 in Last Vegas, the team has made the rounds — hitting clubs on the Strip, returning to Raleigh and bringing the Cup to a bar owned by former Hurricanes player Bates Battaglia, gol ng in Wilkes County and celebrating at a pool party at captain Jordan Staal’s Raleigh home — before bringing the party to downtown.

“My goodness, this week’s been incredible,” Staal said. “All the people have given me

See PARADE, page B3

Oklahoma rolls past Tar Heels 13-2 for 1st national championship since 1994

The Tar Heels just missed in their 13th CWS trip

By Eric Olson The Associated Press

OMAHA, Neb. — The way its regular season unfolded, a national championship for Oklahoma would have seemed impossible. The way the postseason unfolded, well, there was no stopping the Sooners. OU completed the improbable run to its rst national championship since 1994 with a 13-2 victory over UNC in the winner-take-all Game 3 of the College World Series nals Monday night, a performance that featured the prodigious o ensive production and clutch pitching the Sooners rode through the NCAA Tournament.

“I think we knew the talent was always in the room,” said

and

The Sooners (43-23) won the Southeastern Conference’s seventh straight title, quite an accomplishment for a team picked

“I’d take that

every day of the

14th in the 16-team conference in the preseason, nished 11th and entered the postseason o losses in seven of nine games.

To get to Omaha, they beat No. 2 national seed Georgia Tech twice on the road in regionals and swept upstart Kansas on the road in super regionals. To get to the nals, they beat No. 3 Georgia twice in bracket play.

“They got really con dent the last month,” OU coach Skip Johnson said. “They care about each other. They didn’t want to give in. They were sel ess.” UNC (54-14-1) was runner-up

Jaxon Willits, named the CWS most outstanding player. “We got hot at the right time,

now we’re national champions.”

REBECCA S. GRATZ / AP PHOTO

From left, North Carolina undergraduate assistant coach Kyle Datres, Macon Winslow and Olin Johnson sit in the dugout following their loss to Oklahoma in Game 3 of the College World Series.

CORY LAVALETTE / NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Andrei Svechnikov, right, lifts the Stanley Cup over his head as Jordan Martinook speaks to the crowd during the Hurricanes’ championship parade Saturday in downtown Raleigh.

CORY LAVALETTE / NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Confetti and streamers rain down on fans — of which there were an estimated 180,000 — in City Plaza near the end of the Hurricanes’ Stanley Cup parade Saturday in downtown Raleigh.

ride

year.”

Scott Forbes, UNC coach

THURSDAY

6.25.26

TRENDING

Ronnie Bouemboue:

The former NC State men’s soccer standout died last week at age 38. Bouemboue played for the Wolfpack from 2006 to 2009 and is the only Wolfpack player to be a three-time All-ACC Tournament selection. He was also a twotime All-ACC player. He was director of soccer operations for NC State from 2010 to 2012 and was an assistant from 2015 to 2016.

Lonnie Hawkins: Better known as “The Hawk,” the ctional golf legend visited Pinehurst last week to tour the World Golf Hall of Fame. Actually, Will Ferrell, the actor who plays Hawkins in an upcoming Net ix series, made the appearance, but he didn’t break character the entire time he was there. Ferrell/Hawkins posed for photos with fans and even got inducted into the hall for one day.

Kahlil Watson:

The Wake Forest native and graduate of Wake Forest High made his MLB debut with the Cleveland Guardians. Watson signed to play at NC State but was drafted and signed in the rst round of the 2021 MLB Draft, 16th overall. He had 12 home runs and 15 steals in Triple-A when he got the call. He played right eld and went 0 for4 in his debut.

Beyond the box score

POTENT QUOTABLES

“I have the feeling that if you step on such a snake it can end badly.”

Team Germany World Cup captain Joshua Kimmich on encountering a venomous copperhead at the team’s training base in Winston-Salem.

“Now I have a reason to wear one, but that doesn’t mean I’m gonna.”

Yankees in elder Jazz Chisholm on wearing a protective cup, after he was hit in the groin by a foul ball.

PRIME NUMBER 1.8M

Average U.S. viewership of the Stanley Cup Playo s, a 68% increase over last year and the most watched NHL playo s in history, topping the 1.56 million that watched in 1996. The Stanley Cup nal series was the most watched since 2019.

NASCAR

Corey Heim, a part-time driver making only his 13th start in the Cup Series, outdueled teammate Tyler Reddick to win the inaugural NASCAR race at Naval Base Coronado. Heim, who will move into a full-time ride next season at 23XI Racing, snatched the lead from Reddick with two laps remaining after stalking the points leader around the 16-turn, 3.4-mile street course. Bubba Wallace nished 10.365 seconds behind Heim.

John Tortorella has plenty of time to return to Raleigh to retrieve the clothes he claimed to leave in his hotel in anticipation of a Game 7 of the Stanley Cup nal. He won’t, however, return as coach of the Vegas Golden Knights after becoming interim coach eight games into the season. Ryan Craig was named Vegas’ next coach.

TRACK AND FIELD

U.S. gold medal-winner and three-time college champion Caroline Harvey, center, was selected by the Vancouver Goldeneyes with the rst pick in the PWHL Draft on the same day the Wisconsin defender was named the IIHF’s female player of the year. Four of her Team USA teammates were also chosen.

Olympic 1,500-meter bronze medalist and world champion Jenny Simpson shows “encouraging improvement” after collapsing while pacing a mile group at an event in Raleigh last week. The 39-year-old Simpson underwent CPR at the track, and an automated external de brillator was also used before she was transported to the hospital. She was taking part in a community track event.

NHL

PWHL

DAVID ZALUBOWSKI / AP PHOTO

JOHN WAWROW / AP PHOTO

DENIS POROY / AP PHOTO

ASHLEY LANDIS / AP PHOTO

Boozer, Wilson likely to be top-5 NBA Draft picks

The two standout freshmen were some of the biggest names in college basketball

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

THE 2026 NBA Draft will take place this week with the rst round set for June 23 and the second round taking place on June 24.

Here’s a look at some of North Carolina’s top collegiate talents that are likely to have heard their names called in New York.

LOTTERY PICKS

Cam Boozer, PF/C, Duke

The 6-foot-8 freshman took the NCAA by storm this past year, helping take Duke to the Elite Eight.

Boozer averaged 22.5 points, shooting 55.6% from the eld and nearly 40% from beyond the arc, along with 10.2 rebounds and 4.1 assists per game.

The son of former Duke star Carlos Boozer, the Blue Devils standout was named ACC Player of the Year as well as The Associated Press men’s national player of the year, becoming only the fth freshman ever to win the award.

The Blue Devils star is seen as a consensus top-three pick in the draft, although there have been some arguments made

that he could be the top player overall.

“If you talk to the analytics people in most front o ces, 100% of them have Cam Boozer at the top of their draft model,” said NBA Draft expert Jonathan Givony last month on The Herd. “He was the most productive player in college basketball by a mile at 18 years old.”

Caleb Wilson, PF/C, UNC

While Boozer got most of the accolades this past season, Tar Heels star freshman Caleb Wilson wasn’t that far behind him in terms of production and potential ability.

The 6-foot-10 freshman missed the last half of the year after sustaining two hand injuries but is still seen as a potential top- ve pick in this year’s draft.

Wilson averaged 19.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, 1.4 blocks, 1.5 steals and 2.7 assists per game and was one of the best paint scorers in the entire NCAA.

He’s a high-energy player with a ton of athletic ability, and while still a raw talent overall, Wilson has loads of growth potential.

“Although injuries ended his season early, his transition to college was impressively smooth,” wrote NBA draft analyst Jeremy Woo. “He has excellent potential to tap into longterm, with his competitiveness inspiring con dence that he’ll reach it.”

“If you talk to the analytics people in most front o ces, 100% of them have Cam Boozer at the top of their draft model.”

Jonathan Givony, NBA Draft expert

LIKELY FIRST-ROUNDERS

Henri Veesaar, C, UNC

UNC junior Henri Veesaar had a strong season at UNC, forming a dominant frontcourt duo with Wilson.

The 7-foot Estonian center is an e cient scorer, having averaged 17 points while shooting more than 60% from the eld, along with 8.7 rebounds and 1.2 blocks this past season with the Tar Heels.

Multiple mock drafts see him as having rst-round potential due to his size and scoring touch.

Isaiah Evans, SG, Duke

The 6-foot-6 sophomore guard was a key piece of a Blue Devils team that nished the year with an incredible 35-3 record.

Evans took on a bigger role with Duke in his second year and saw his overall game develop quite well too.

What makes him special though is that a perimeter threat, averaging 15 points while shooting 36.1% on 3-pointers. His combination of size and shooting ability on the wing has many mocking him as a late rst round pick.

SECOND DAY POTENTIAL

Quadir Copeland, SG, NC State

The Wolfpack senior is a bit of a rarity as a point guard with size (6-foot-6, 220 lbs), and that makes him an enticing option for teams looking for big playmakers. Copeland was NC State’s top option this past season, averaging 13.9 points, 6.5 assists and 1.8 steals while shooting nearly 50% from the eld and 40% from beyond the arc.

Maliq Brown, PF/C, Duke

The Blue Devils senior has been one of Duke’s most versatile defenders over the years.

At 6-foot-9, Brown provides good size and he has the ability to guard inside and on the perimeter. While not a pro cient scorer,

Brown still brings a lot of value, having averaged 5.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 1.8 blocks this past season.

TWO-WAYS/SUMMER LEAGUE DEALS

Darrion Williams, F, NC State

It wasn’t a very strong season for Williams at NC State, as the ACC Preseason Player of the Year proceeded to have one of his worst years, but the 6-foot-6 forward still has enough potential that a team might take a ier on him.

It’s unlikely his name is called this week, but he could very well end up with a summer league invite.

Seth Trimble, G, UNC

Despite losing a good chunk of the season due to a freak injury, the UNC guard still had a decent year, averaging 14 points, 3.0 assists and 1.3 steals per game. Trimble is an e ective defender and strong leader, and there’s enough positives to think he could play his way into an opportunity over the summer.

Hornets look to capitalize on pair of rst-round picks

Charlotte had the 14th and 18th overall selections

By Jesse Deal North State Journal

CHARLOTTE — The Char -

lotte Hornets entered this week’s 2026 NBA Draft with two rst-round picks and a chance to add to a young roster coming o a 44-38 season.

In Tuesday night’s opening round, Charlotte held the 14th and 18th overall selections — two spots the franchise had never previously drafted from — placing the Hornets in the middle of what president of basketball operations Je Peterson described as a strong draft class.

Hosted at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, the draft continued Wednesday, though the Hornets did not own a second-round pick.

“We have two really good picks in a very deep draft, so there’s no doubt in my mind that we will get to work and gure out how to add a couple of really good players to this Hornets team,” Peterson said.

The 14th pick belonged to Charlotte, while the 18th selection came through a Feb. 6, 2025, trade with Phoenix that also brought center Jusuf Nurkic to the Hornets. Charlotte sent Cody Martin, Vasa Micic and a second-round pick to the Suns in the deal.

“It allows us to be exible, and it adds some optionality in terms of being able to trade up or trade back.”

Je Peterson, Hornets president of basketball operations

Because of the protections attached to the rst-rounder, Charlotte received the least favorable of the 2026 rst-round picks originally tied to Washington, Memphis, Phoenix and Orlando. The pick ultimately landed at No. 18 through Orlando. Peterson mentioned that having two picks gave the Hornets uidity as they prepared for the middle portion of the opening round.

from page B1

so much energy. My family experienced this amazing ride, and I haven’t slept a whole lot. You can tell from my voice we’ve been going pretty hard, but it’s been so much fun, and just moments I’ll never forget.”

It’s likely one Hurricanes fans — and the city — will remember as well.

The procession featured former players, mascot Stormy, broadcasters Mike Maniscalco, Tripp Tracy, Shane Willis and Hanna Yates, members of Carolina’s front o ce and sta , owner Tom Dundon, Brind’Amour and Tulsky, and four double-decker buses holding the team’s current players, their families and friends.

From Shayne Gostisbehere’s mullet wig and out t that looked like it was straight out of “Wet Hot American Summer” to several players and Brind’Amour having their shirts torn o by fellow Hurricanes, the rally stage featured speeches that praised the fanbase, honored teammates and didn’t lack not-suited-for-broadcast adjectives.

Charlotte Hornets president of basketball operations

Je Peterson smiles during a press conference on March 6, 2024.

“It allows us to be exible, and it adds some optionality in terms of being able to trade up or trade back,” Peterson said. “It’s always good to have options in life, and even if we stay put, we are con dent that we’ll get two really good players there.”

The draft marked Peterson’s third leading Charlotte’s front o ce. In his rst draft with the Hornets, Charlotte used the sixth overall pick to select French forward Tidjane Salaun, whose long-term outlook remains uncertain as he continues to develop.

A year later, Peterson used the fourth pick on former Duke standout Kon Knueppel, a move that quickly looked promising as he averaged 18.5 points and nished second in rookie of the year voting.

“I’m never going to forget this moment with you guys here today, seeing the joy in you guys’ faces.”

Taylor Hall

“You guys gave a jolt to my career that I didn’t know I needed, so thank you guys so ----ing much,” said Taylor Hall, the former Hart Trophy winner and rst overall pick who was traded to the Hurricanes in January 2025. “I’m never going to forget this moment with you guys here today, seeing the joy in you guys’ faces. This is for you guys too. This is awesome.”

Stein proclaimed the coming months to be 2026 Stanley Cup Summer and announced that Edwards Mill Road between Wade Avenue and N.C. 54 would be renamed “Hurricanes Highway.”

Tulsky also orchestrated an on-stage contract extension, having enforcer Nicolas Deslauri-

Peterson also moved back into the rst round to select Liam McNeeley at No. 29. McNeeley split time between Charlotte and the Greensboro Swarm in the G League, but his selection later drew praise in the NBA’s annual general manager survey, where he was identi ed as one of the better value picks in the class.

Charlotte’s current foundation is built around LaMelo Ball, Knueppel and Brandon Miller, a trio that gives the Hornets a clear core, but the roster still has questions. The Hornets entered the o season needing additional frontcourt depth, with Miles Bridges and Grant Williams entering the nal years of their contracts, and Salaun still working through his development.

Charlotte also faced free agency decisions, including the future of guard Coby White, who provided a boost after arriving at the trade deadline.

Several prospects connected to Charlotte in mock drafts re ected those needs.

The most common theme was frontcourt help, with forwards and centers such as Karim Lopez, Hannes Steinbach, Morez Johnson Jr., Allen Graves, Yaxel Lendeborg, Jayden Quaintance and Aday Mara among the names oated in the Hornets’ range.

Lopez, a forward with the New Zealand Breakers, o ers size, physical tools and activity on the glass. He is still con-

ers, who came to the Hurricanes from the Flyers before the trade deadline, ink a new two-year deal in front of the crowd.

Staal, meanwhile, told North State Journal he had no intentions of going out on a high note after winning the Conn Smythe Trophy as playo MVP and his second Cup.

“No,” the 37-year-old said. “I want another one.”

The majority of the team is under contract for next season. Frederik Andersen and Mike Reilly will be unrestricted free agents July 1, while Alexander Nikishin is due a new deal as a restricted free agent without arbitration rights.

“I think the team should be just as good,” Dundon said, “maybe better.”

sidered a developing prospect, but his rebounding, motor and long-term shooting potential could make him attractive to a team seeking toughness and upside on the wing.

Steinbach, a Washington big man, has also been projected near Charlotte’s picks. His rebounding, touch around the basket and ability to step away from the rim give him appeal as a modern frontcourt option. Johnson, a Michigan forward, brings a di erent prole built around defense, energy and versatility, though his NBA ceiling may depend on the growth of his outside shot. Graves has been mentioned as another possible frontcourt t because of his passing, feel and defensive activity. Other options, including Lendeborg, Quaintance and Mara, would give Charlotte di erent blends of size, rim protection and developmental upside.

The Hornets also had several perimeter options tied to them.

Cameron Carr’s athleticism and 3-point shooting could provide another oor-spacing option o the bench, while Christian Anderson’s shooting made him a name to watch despite Charlotte’s existing guard depth.

With two rst-round picks, the Hornets had room to balance need and upside as they attempted to nd pieces that could help the franchise build on last season’s progress.

Tulsky added from the stage, “We’ve got a team full of people who are happy to be here. They know we’re building something special — they want to be part of it.” The celebration overlapped with duties for Tulsky and the front o ce. The NHL Draft is Thursday and Friday, and free agency opens July 1. But for the day, the focus was on the players honoring the fans, and the fans returning the adoration.

“This is why we do this,” Staal said of the fans. “It meant so much to so many people, and you get to really see it — there it was. It was such a turnout, and just I’m so happy that we were able to do this for everyone because it’s clear they were excited about it.”

MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

PARADE

JEFF ROBERSON / AP PHOTO

Duke forward Cameron Boozer accepts the Oscar Robertson Player of the Year award during a news conference at the Final Four.

Clark quiets US Open crowd that rooted for him to lose

A year after a locker-wrecking tantrum, Clark held on to win

By Michael R. Sisak

The Associated Press

S0UTHAMPTON, N.Y. — Wyndham Clark heard it all day from the Shinnecock Hills crowd. Fans shouted for his golf ball to go in the bunker and the rough. One was ejected after yelling: “Don’t choke, Wyndham!”

He quieted them with a 52 -foot putt to tap-in range for his second U.S. Open title in four years, avoiding the worst collapse in tournament history after his six-stroke lead dwindled to one.

Oh, how this anybody-but-Wyndham crowd would’ve relished that.

New York loves a winner, but the one these fans really wanted to see on Sunday was Scottie Sche er, who was chasing the career Grand Slam, or Sam Burns, who lost by a stroke. Not Clark. Call it backlash for him damaging a locker in a t of rage at Oakmont Country Club while missing the cut last year in the

U.S. Open. Or for saying on TV that being surrounded by kids playing in the Masters Par 3 Contest was “great birth control.” Or even for winning his rst U.S. Open title in 2023 over fan favorites Rory McIlroy and Rickie Fowler.

Or maybe the folks spending their Father’s Day at Shinnecock just wanted to see a little drama after Clark built leads of two, four and six strokes af-

Christie takes Bassmasters Elite Series prize at Albemarle Sound

The veteran held o a rookie to win his 10th career event

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

THE PASQUOTANK River and Albemarle Sound were anything but predictable, but Jason Christie managed to tame the uncertainty to win the Maxam Bassmaster Elite Series event earlier this month.

The Oklahoma native caught a total weight of 92 pounds, 7 ounces over the four days of shing, to win by more than 5 pounds.

“Even today, I thought my luck was going to run out,” Christie said. “I could go up there tomorrow and not catch one. It was so random where I was catching them.”

The win was his 10th on the circuit, making him one of six sherman with double-digit Bassmaster victories. This was his seventh Elite Series win.

This victory was a roller coaster as he struggled to nd a consistent location or bait that worked. He even failed to catch his ve-bass limit on day two, nishing with four and getting his tournament-winning weight total with just 19 bass.

Christie said he followed a strategy that allowed him to stay available and on the water. He tried to stay in the front half of the Chowan River

BASEBALL from page B1 for the third time since 2006 and now has 13 CWS appearances without a title. Only Florida State, with 24, has more without winning it all.

The Sooners were back in top form o ensively after managing only four singles in a 6-2 loss in Game 2 and handed the Tar Heels their most lopsided loss of the season.

“We ran out of gas when all is said and done,” Carolina coach Scott Forbes said.

When Jackson Cleveland struck out Jake Scha ner to end the game, he and catcher Deiten Lachance embraced and then headed to the dogpile that

to avoid having to re ll his gas.

On championship Sunday, Christie again stayed close to home, and, in fact, called it a day early.

He caught three sh that added 20 pounds to his total in a 10-minute span, giving him a fast start to the shing day.

“I pulled up, caught a big one,” he said. “I went two poles down and caught another big one. I sat there and caught another good one. Then I caught a 3½ (pounder) out in front of it. I went from hunting and pecking to catch a limit to catching four really quick. It made my decision to leave early easier.”

Once he had his ve sh, he headed back to the weigh station with two hours left on the clock.

“I felt like I had a better chance of winning by getting back to weigh-in with my bass alive than rushing and killing my sh or getting stuck out there,” he said.

Christie earned $101,000 for nishing rst. He added another $6,500 in bonus awards from Toyota and Yamaha for his performance and also got the $1,000 prize on Saturday for largest bass of the day, a 9 -pound, 7-ouncer.

“I sure needed that bite,” he said of Saturday’s big sh. “Kudos to (fellow competitor David) Mullins. He told me about that spot. It was a one-cast thing, I made the cast and caught it. One day I’ll return the favor.”

formed near third base. Players waving national championship towels rushed back toward their dugout to salute the celebrating Sooner faithful on the rst-base line, football greats Barry Switzer and Brian Bosworth among them.

Kyle Branch, the No. 9 batter who came into the game 1 of 16 (.063) in the CWS, drove in six runs with a pair of singles and home run. His homer came on his last at-bat, just as brother Kolby’s did for Georgia last Wednesday.

“Pure joy. Pure joy for our team,” Branch said. “I had a teammate tell me I was going to do something special, and for him to tell me that with the way

ed the course by the time he was nishing his third round. On Sunday, he might’ve wished they had stayed home.

It’s rare for a golfer in the lead at a major championship — or any golfer for that matter — to be the subject of such derision. It happened to McIlroy at the Ryder Cup last September at Bethpage Black, also on Long Island, but that was a team competition. McIlroy was the star of the winning European side and U.S. fans went overboard in letting him have it.

Clark said he tried to see himself in an “underdog” role on Sunday, as he did in 2023.

“Anytime someone said something negative to me, I replaced it with something positive,” Clark said. “Some of it’s self-deserved. I kind of brought it on myself, but I also get it, too. Scottie was going for the career Grand Slam, and it hasn’t happened very often.”

“Man, they de nitely didn’t want me to win.”

Wyndham Clark

ter each of the rst three days.

“Man, they de nitely didn’t want me to win,” Clark said.

On Saturday, he complained that fans had largely desert-

Even so, the animosity appeared to rattle Clark early in his round. He bogeyed the second, sixth and seventh holes as fans threw their support behind Sche er. They cheered Clark’s mistakes while showering Sche er with a ection — even serenading the four-time major champion, who turned 30 on Sunday, with “Happy Birthday.”

It was “Get in the bunker!” for Clark and “We love you Scottie!” for Sche er, who tied for fourth at even par.

“You like seeing the fans cheer for you. I think sometimes it can get a little too much

when, you know, balls are kind of going o greens and you start hearing cheers,” Sche er said. “That felt a bit much to me.”

Anti-Clark fans cheered when he ared a shot under a pair of trash containers on the fourth hole and again when his shot on the seventh hole landed in a bunker.

“Wyndham gonna lose ‘em,” a man said as Clark walked to his ball on 10.

“Get in the fescue!” a fan yelled after he teed o on 13. When his second shot landed on a precarious part of the green, the crowd chanted “Go! Go! Go!” and gleefully roared as the golf ball rolled o the back.

Clark won over the crowd, at least for a moment, on the 16th hole — punching out from the tall grass and pumped his st after nailing a 24-foot birdie putt to go to 5-under par. For the moment, he held a two -stroke lead and the crowd’s hopes of a di erent winner were fading.

But the taunts returned on the next hole as Clark backed o of his 8-foot par putt and then missed it. As Clark walked to the 18th tee, scratching his head with his hat in hand, a fan in the grandstand sang “Under Pressure.”

“Yeah, it was tough, but I’m proud of myself that I battled through,” Clark said. “I mean, things really could have gotten away from me. I stood tough. Yeah, I would have liked to have won by more, but as long as you win, it doesn’t matter.”

Christie was in second place on day one of the tournament, and his big Saturday haul helped him move into the top spot, but he still battled an unpredictable set of waterways. Christie said he only received six to seven bites each day of the tournament and needed to execute on all of them.

“If I get a bite, I’ll sh the next 500 yards and not get anything,” he said. “If you get a bite, you might as well pick up the trolling motor and run a mile. I don’t know why because you see bass swimming around. I don’t know if it is the way they set up or what. It is so random that it’s almost a pattern.”

Elite Series rookie Fisher Anaya, of Alabama, nished second with 87 pounds, 1 ounce. He fell two bass shy of his limit on the rst day, nishing with

things have been going, it has to be a God thing.”

He joined Dayton Tockey as the seventh and eighth OU players to homer in Omaha. Willits had three hits, reached base ve times and nished the CWS 13 of 25 (.520).

The pitching matchup of Carolina’s Jackson Rose (5-1) and Oklahoma’s Nick Wesloski was the rst between freshmen in a CWS winner-take-all game since 1993. Neither got out of the third inning.

LJ Mercurius (7-7) turned in another strong performance out of the bullpen, shutting down a threat when OU led 3-1 in the third and holding the Tar Heels to one run in 52⁄3 innings. He al-

“It is so random that it’s almost a pattern.”

Jason Christie on nding bass in the Chowan River

just three sh for 9 pounds, 7 ounces, then rallied in the nal three days, nishing with hisnal bass tipping the scales at 9 pounds, 9 ounces, topping his entire day one haul and earning him the $3,000 Phoenix Boats Big Bass of the Tournament bonus.

“I don’t know how I’m feeling. Not good,” Anaya said. “The rst day bit me in the rear end. I didn’t even have to catch much, but I didn’t catch anything. It was a heck of a comeback though. I almost pulled it o .”

lowed just two runs in 121⁄3 over four CWS appearances. The Tar Heels’ pitching sta , which had the best ERA in the Atlantic Coast Conference, had been good and occasionally great in the CWS. It was neither Monday, with eight pitchers combining to allow 14 hits, issue eight walks, throw three wild pitches and hit a batter. ACC freshman of the year Caden Glauber, who had given up just one run in 101⁄3 innings in four CWS appearances, was called on for a fth one day after he threw 65 pitches in ve shutout innings. It was apparent coach Forbes went to the well one time too many. Glauber was called for a clock

Anaya took home $23,000 for second place, plus $3,000 in Toyota bonus and the $3,000 Big Bass prize.

Ohio’s Hunter Shryock nished third at 86 pounds, 10 ounces. He was near the top of the leaderboard all week and produced the only 30-pound day of the tournament with a 30-pound, 3-ounce haul on Championship Sunday. That earned him a $2,000 bonus for the Rapala CrusCity Monster bag of the Tournament, as well as his second career top-three nish on the tour.

“It was a great week,” he said. “I went a long way to sh one creek and it provided each day. Today, I had 20 pounds early on and had the time to go throw (a glidebait).”

Shryock earned $17,000 for his nish.

violation before he even threw his rst pitch. He issued a four-pitch bases-loaded walk and Willits followed with a two-run single to make it 6-1 in the fourth. That was all for Glauber, who threw seven pitches, ve of them balls. The Tar Heels had won all 29 games in which Glauber had pitched before Monday.

“This group loved each other all season and took us on a ride and came up just short,” Forbes said. “I’d take that ride every day of the year. While we’re sad, the sadness will go away. We talk about joy. Joy doesn’t go away. These guys have given me, our coaching sta , our fans, administration, everybody, a ton of joy and a ton to be proud of.”

GEORGE WALKER IV / AP PHOTO

Wyndham Clark reacts to his shot on the ninth hole during the nal round of the U.S. Open.

SEIGO SAITO / B.A.S.S.

Jason Christie poses with some of his Saturday catch at the Bassmasters event in the Pasquotank River and Albemarle Sound.

RANDOLPH

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of DONALD OLEN BOLING, SR. aka DONALD O. BOLING aka, DONALD OLEN BOLING, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203, on or before September 25, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 25th day of June 2026.

DONALD OLEN BOLING, JR. Executor of the Estate of DONALD OLEN BOLING, SR. aka, DONALD O. BOLING, aka, DONALD OLEN BOLING DECEASED Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043

PUBL/DATES: 06/25/26

07/02/26 07/09/26 07/16/26

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Wayne Reginald Brooks of Randolph 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 Andrew J. Weiner, 113 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203 on or before September 14th 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 11th day of June 2026. Jason Wesley Brooks Wayne Reginald Brooks Estate Andrew J Weiner, Attorney Gavin & Cox 113 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 Telephone: 336-629-2600

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Administrator CTA of the Estate of Vicki Ellen White Buie aka Vicki Ellen Buie, late of Randolph County, North Carolina and Volusia County, Florida, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before September 7, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 4th day of June, 2026

Kelly Boyd aka Kelly Grace Evans Boyd Administrator CTA of the Estate of Vicki Ellen White Buie aka Vicki Ellen Buie Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 06/04/26 06/11/26 06/18/26 06/25/26

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having quali ed as Administrator CTA of the Estate of Henry Gunnar Carlson, Jr., late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before September 14, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 11th day of June, 2026

Cynthia Jeanne Carlson Administrator CTA of the Estate of Henry Gunnar Carlson, Jr. Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043

PUBL/DATES: 06/11/26 06/18/26 06/25/26 07/02/26

TAKE NOTICE

CABARRUS

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

26SP000156-120

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Adriano Carmona Belaunzaran and Raidalis Sotolongo Hernandez (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Adriano Carmona Belaunzaran and Raidalis Sotolongo Hernandez) to Heather Lovier, Trustee(s), dated September 29, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 16667, at Page 0134 in Cabarrus 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 Cabarrus County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door in Concord, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on July 6, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Kannapolis in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 2 of the “Property of Paul Alexander Gibson” as described on the map recorded in Book 89, Page 52, Cabarrus County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular metes and bounds description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 621 Norland Avenue, Kannapolis, North Carolina. More commonly known as 621 Norland Avenue, Kannapolis, NC 28083 PIN: 5623-14-6819-0000

25SP000641-120 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

NORTH CAROLINA, CABARRUS COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Broderick R. Knight and Franchesska Mary Lacole Knight to Brock and Scott, Trustee(s), which was dated November 4, 2021 and recorded on November 8, 2021 in Book 15638 at Page 16, Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina.

Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will o er for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on July 7, 2026 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following

NOTICE

Having quali ed as Administrator of the

Estate of RANDALL EUGENE MAJOR,

late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of TAYLOR B. CALLICUTT,

ATTORNEY AT LAW, PO Box 2445, Asheboro, North Carolina 27204, on or before September 18, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 18th day of June, 2026

Teresa Benbow Major, Administrator of the Estate of Randall Eugene Major, deceased

TAYLOR B. CALLICUTT

ATTORNEY AT LAW PO Box 2445 Asheboro, NC 27204 (336) 953-4661

PUBL/DATES: 06/18/26 06/25/26 07/02/26 07/09/26

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Lee B. Ravenel a/k/a Lee Benoist Ravenel, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before September 25, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This 17th day of June, 2026

Renee R. Gaunt & Margaret R. Elliott Co-Executors of the Estate of Lee B. Ravenel a/k/a Lee Benoist Ravenel S. Scott Eggleston, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043

PUBL/DATES: 6/25/26 7/2/26 7/9/26 7/16/26

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). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. 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

described property situated in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING all of Lot 71 of Tucker Chase, Map 6, as same is shown on plat thereof, recorded in Plat Book 70 at Page 100, in the O ce of the Register of Deeds for Cabarrus County, North Carolina.

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

Said property is commonly known as 4139 Granite Street, Midland, NC 28107.

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 Broderick R Knight and spouse, Franchesska Mary Lacole Knight.

30, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Karen Sharpe-Hughes aka Karen Ashley Sharpe-Hughes and Remashaun Deleon Hughes, Sr., dated January 20, 2022 to secure the original principal amount of $325,000.00, and recorded in Book 15798 at Page 134 of the Cabarrus 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: 5208 Teakwood Drive, Kannapolis, NC 28083 Tax Parcel ID:

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of CAROLYN GOODYEAR VAN ZILE (A/K/A Carolyn Goodyear VanZile) (A/K/A Carolyn G. Van Zile) (A/K/A Carolyn G. VanZile), late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ce of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before September 23, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 16th day of June, 2026 Madison C. Hildebrandt Administrator of the Estate of CAROLYN GOODYEAR VAN ZILE, DECEASED Madison C. Hildebrandt, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 06/25/26 07/02/26 07/09/26 07/16/26

WAKE

Notice to Creditors

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of HELEN H. HANNA, aka, HELEN HEMPSTEAD HANNA, late of Wake County, North Carolina (26E001835-910), 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 21st day of September, 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 18th day of June 2026. Scott Bruce Hanna Executor of the Estate of Helen H. Hanna, Aka, Helen Hempstead Hanna c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 06/18, 06/25, 07/02, 07/09/2026)

Notice to Creditors

Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate PHILIP ANDREW KENNEDY, late of Wake County, North Carolina (26E001826-910), 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 7th day of September, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the said

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

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.

56435670590000 Present Record Owners: Ann Dunn and Michael Dunn The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Ann Dunn and Michael Dunn. 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

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,

CUMBERLAND

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

26SP000460-250

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Anja Jones and Robert Quincy Jones (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Robert Quincy Jones and Anja Jones) to Michael J. Broker, Trustee(s), dated October 5, 2011, and recorded in Book No. 08738, at Page 0593 in Cumberland 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 Cumberland 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

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

26SP000037-250

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Richard H. Vantassel (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Richard H. Vantassel) to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), dated October 31, 2017, and recorded in Book No. 10196, at Page 0556 in Cumberland 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 Cumberland 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 Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

26SP000138-250

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Diane Quintero Stephens and Blake A. Stephens (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Diane Quintero Stephens and Blake A. Stephens) to CB Services Corp., Trustee(s), dated December 8, 2010, and recorded in Book No. 8542, at Page 96 in Cumberland 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 Cumberland 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 Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00

door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on July 6, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot number 74, in a subdivision known as Woodchase, Section One, and the same being duly recorded in Book of Plat 101, Page 1, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1425 Cantrell Court, Fayetteville, North Carolina. PIN#9497-70-8693 Property Address: 1425 Cantrell Court, Fayetteville, NC 28314

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).

PM on June 29, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The Land referred to herein below is situated in the County of Cumberland, State of North Carolina, and is described as follows: Being all of Lot 27 containing 0.29 acres as shown on that plat recorded in Plat Book 133, Page 120 in the Cumberland County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 2210 Bragg Boulevard, Fayetteville, 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). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying

PM on June 29, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot Number 49 in a subdivision known as HICKORY GROVE, SECTION 1 and the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 43, at page 1, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 6551 People Street, Fayetteville, North Carolina. Parcel Identi cation No. 9496-64-6396

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).

Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to

Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. 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

residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. 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

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

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

OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000167-280

and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a

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). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR

Deed of Trust made by Gerald Layton (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Gerald Layton) to Fidelity National Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated May 15, 2023, and recorded in Book No. DE2599, at Page 1665 in Davidson 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 Davidson 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 Lexington, Davidson County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:30 AM on July 8, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in New London in the County of Davidson, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 18, as shown on plat entitled, “Final Plat of Lake Shore Estates, Section 1, dated 08/18/1977 and recorded in Plat Book 16, Page 212, Davidson County Registry. See also Plat Book 16, Page 206, Davidson County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 265 Shoreline Drive, New London, North Carolina.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000169-280

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). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government.

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Darryl Burrus (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Darryl Burrus) to G. William Beale, A National Association, Trustee(s), dated July 16, 2024, and recorded in Book No. DE2658, at Page 845 in Davidson 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 Davidson 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 Lexington, Davidson County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:30 AM on July 8, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Lexington in the County of Davidson, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lots 34, 35 and 36 of Rosemary Park as shown on map recorded in Plat Book 2, Page 91 in the O ce of The register of Deeds of Davidson County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 409 Westside Drive, Lexington, North Carolina. Property address: 409 Westside Drive, Lexington, NC 27292 TPN: 1110200030034

be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. The property to be o ered pursuant to this notice of sale is being o ered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the o cers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being o ered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the ling of a bankruptcy petition prior to the con rmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. 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

If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. 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.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property

An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 4521.29 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

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

162883

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Foundation Legal Group 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: 29568 - 152532

A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the ling of a bankruptcy petition prior to the con rmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be e ective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the e ective date of the termination.

DAVIDSON

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF FORSYTH GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

24CVS002575-330

Defendant(s). NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Jeremy B. Wilkins, Commissioner, pursuant to the Order/Judgment entered in the abovecaptioned case on April 14, 2026 (“Order”), and by virtue of the appointment, power and authority contained in that Order, has been authorized and ordered to sell the property commonly known as 1308 Florence Ave, Rural Hall, NC 27045 (“Property”). Said Property is secured by the Deed of Trust executed by Amber Lynnette Jordan and husband, Erik Daniel Jordan, dated August 20, 2020 and recorded on August 20,

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

of Forsyth County, North Carolina, to which map reference is hereby made for a more particular description of said property. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 5269 Silas Creek Parkway, Winston Salem, NC 27106. 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

2020 in Book RE 3546 at Page 1181 of the Forsyth County, North Carolina Registry.

The Property shall be sold together with improvements located thereon, towards satisfaction of the debt due by Amber Lynnette Jordan and Erik Daniel Jordan, and secured by the lien against such property in favor of Alabama Housing Finance Authority.

The Commissioner will o er for sale to the highest bidder at a public auction 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 July 2, 2026 at 10:00 AM the following described real property (including all improvements thereon) located in Forsyth County, North Carolina and described as follows:

Being known and designated as Lot No. 19 on the Map of J.C. Vestal Property, Section No. 2, said map recorded in the O ce of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County, North Carolina, in Plat Book 17, Page 201, to which reference is hereby made for a more complete description.

The above described property will be sold, transferred and conveyed “AS IS, WHERE IS” subject to liens or encumbrances of record which are superior to such Deed of Trust, together with all unpaid taxes and assessments and any recorded

25SP001763-330 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Jarid Hotaling and Janey Torres (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Jarid Hotaling and Janey Torres) to Heather Lovier, Trustee(s), dated September 30, 2022, and recorded in Book No. RE 3722, at Page 827 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 1:15 PM on July 1, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Winston Salem in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Tax Id Number(s): 6855620590000

Land situated in the Township of Winston in the County of Forsyth in the State of NC

BEING all of Lot 18, Section 1 of Scotland Ridge Subdivision, as per plat thereof recorded in Plat Book 43, Page 146 in the O ce of the Register of Deeds for Forsyth County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 152 Scotland Ridge Drive, Winston Salem, North Carolina.

Commonly known as: 152 Scotland Ridge Dr, Winston Salem, NC 27107-1876

The property address and tax parcel identi cation number listed are provided solely for informational purposes.

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

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 July 2, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Mooresville in the County of Iredell, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a stake in the corner of McLelland Avenue in the Township of Mooresville, NC. Corner of Lots 13 and 15 of the Adams lot and runs South 45 West 225 feet to a stake, formerly the Dr. James Young Corner; thence South 50 feet to a stake formerly the Dr. James Young Line; thence North 225 feet to a stake in the center of McLelland Avenue; thence North 45 West with the said street 50 feet to the beginning, containing 1/4 acres, more or less. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 436 West McLelland Avenue, Mooresville, North Carolina. Also known as 436 W. McLelland Avenue, Mooresville, NC 28115 Parcel ID: 4657931082.000

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 Gregory Douglas and wife, Tonia Douglas.

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

releases. Neither the Commissioner nor the holder of the debt secured by such Deed of Trust, nor the o cers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Commissioner or the holder of the debt make any representation 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 and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such conditions expressly are disclaimed.

The Commissioner shall convey title to the property by non-warranty deed, without any covenants or warranties, express or implied.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 1-339.29 (c) in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the judge or 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. Upon termination of a rental

N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. 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

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

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”.

To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current record owners of the property as re ected on the records of the FORSYTH COUNTY Register of Deeds’ o ce not more than ten (10) days prior to the date hereof are ERIK DANIEL JORDAN AND WIFE, AMBER LYNETTE JORDAN. A certi ed check only (no personal checks) deposit of ve percent (5%) of the purchasing

a North Carolina Limited Liability Company) to Sean C. Walker, Trustee(s), dated March 10, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 2905, at Page 1695 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

recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the ling of a bankruptcy petition prior to the con rmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor

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). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. 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

AM on July 9, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Troutman in the County of Iredell, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The Land is described as follows: Being all of Lot 35 of Wiltshire Creek Subdivision as platted, planned and recorded in Plat Book 36, Pages 106-108, in the Iredell County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 111 Carissa Lane, Troutman, North Carolina. Also known as 111 Carissa Lane, Troutman, NC 28166 Parcel ID: 4740400254.000

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 Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320

requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. 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

to convey

is

If the

to this

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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

26SP000201-480

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Helmsman Homes, LLC, a North Carolina Limited Liability Company (PRESENT RECORD

OWNER(S): Helmsman Homes, LLC, a North Carolina Limited Liability Company) to Sean C. Walker, Trustee(s), dated March 11, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 2903, at Page 1231 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 July 2, 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 2 of plate entitled “Minor Subdivision for Greystone Realty Group, LLC”, the same being platted, planned and recorded in Map Book 73 at Page 93 in the Iredell County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 517 West Front Street, Statesville, North Carolina. Also known as 517 W. Front St, Statesville, NC 28677 Parcel ID: 4734842288.000 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 Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be

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 Iredell County courthouse at 11:00AM on July 9, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated

FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY SUSAN ROBBINS FREE AND JOEL BENNETT FREE DATED JANUARY 10, 2007 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1821 AT PAGE 1273 AND MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED MARCH

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 AM on July 7, 2026 and will sell to the

25-124016

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION JOHNSTON COUNTY 26SP000260-500 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY ZENDA JONES DATED JANUARY 30, 2020 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 5514 AT PAGE 821 AND CORRECTED BY AFFIDAVIT RECORDED MARCH 31, 2020 IN BOOK 5558, PAGE 422 AND FURTHER MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED OCTOBER 18, 2021 IN BOOK 6081, PAGE 625 AND FURTHER MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED MARCH 24, 2022 IN BOOK 6216, PAGE 727 AND FURTHER MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED OCTOBER 10, 2024 IN BOOK 6756, PAGE 612 IN THE JOHNSTON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA

of the Iredell 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: 229 North

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: Lying and being in the Wilson’s Mills Township, Johnston County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows:

All of Lot 172, Sierra Heights Subdivision, Phase V, as shown on a plat recorded in Plat Book 92, Pages 95-97, Johnston County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 40 Echo Canyon Drive, Clayton, North Carolina.

See also Plat Book 95, Page 470, Johnston County Registry for Drainage Easement.

See also Plat Book 96, Page 18, Johnston County Registry for New 20’ Drainage Easement.

Property Address: 40 Echo Canyon Drive, Clayton, NC 27527

PIN/PARCEL NO.: 17J06029O

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.

NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the abovereferenced 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 Johnston County courthouse at 11:00AM on July 7, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Johnston County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Zenda Jones, dated January 30, 2020 to secure the original principal amount of $225,244.00, and recorded in Book 5514 at Page 821 of the Johnston 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

OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION JOHNSTON COUNTY 25SP000712-500 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY CHRISTINA DECKER DATED JUNE 15, 2023 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 6493 AT PAGE 534 IN THE JOHNSTON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the abovereferenced 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 Johnston County courthouse at 11:00AM on July 7, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Johnston County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Christina Decker, dated June 15, 2023 to secure the original principal amount of $309,294.00, and recorded in Book 6493 at Page 534 of the Johnston 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: 2052 Jack Road, Clayton, NC 27520 Tax Parcel ID: 05G04004B Present Record Owners:

purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. 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

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

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

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). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. 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

and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 764 Lakemont Drive, Clayton, NC 27520 Tax Parcel ID: 05H03049H Present Record Owners: Zenda Jones The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Zenda Jones. 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.

Christina Decker The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Christina Decker. 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

way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the ling of a bankruptcy petition prior to the con rmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. §

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 re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any

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 re-sale. 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,

8520 Cli Cameron

Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By: 25-123656

JOHNSTON

All that certain lots or parcels of land designated as Lot No. Fifteen (15) and Lot No. Sixteen (16) in Block “Q” of Fisher Park as shown on map duly recorded in Book of Maps No. 7, at Page 69, Robeson County Registry, reference to said map and registration being hereby made for a more particular description of said lands and the same being incorporated herein.

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

Said property is commonly known as 700 Floyd Street, Fairmont, NC 28340.

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 July 1, 2026 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Robeson County, North Carolina, to wit:

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

FILE NUMBER: 26SP000029-770

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by COMOLEDA B. DAVIS dated July 11, 2012 in the amount of $68,400.00 and recorded in Book D 1862, Page 858 of the Robeson 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 Robeson County, North Carolina, in Book 2560, Page 498, 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 Robeson County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on July 8, 2026 at 1:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real

notice STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF ROBESON GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

26CV000507-770

MidFirst Bank, Plainti , v. Cody Locklear, Makenzie Oxendine, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD)

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION

COUNTY

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

estate situated in the County of Robeson, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 323602004 ADDRESS: 2203 OAK ST LUMBERTON, NC 28358 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): UNKNOWN HEIRS OF COMOLEDA B. DAVIS THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF ROBESON, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK D 1862, PAGE 858, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT NOS. THREE (3) AND FOUR (4) IN BLOCK I OF THE PINE VIEW PARK SUBDIVISION AS SHOWN ON MAP THEREOF RECORDED IN BOOK OF MAPS NO. 10, PAGE 62, IN THE ROBESON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA. 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

Defendant(s). NOTICE OF SALE

Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the Order for Judicial Sale dated May 27, 2026, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Robeson County courthouse at 11:00 AM on July 2, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Robeson County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Cody Locklear; Makenzie Oxendine, dated October 18, 2023 to secure the original principal amount of $263,570.00, and recorded in Book No. 2429, at Page 1 of the Robeson

at

at

at 11:00AM on

7, 2026, the

and

thereon, in

and being more particularly described in that

Deed of Trust executed Barbara Smith, dated March 15, 2022 to secure the original principal amount of $146,470.00, and recorded in Book 8425 at Page 548 of the Union County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modi ed by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 513 Hasty Street, Marshville, NC 28103 Tax Parcel ID:

above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Union County courthouse at 11:00AM on June 30, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Union County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Ana Josefa Herrera and Nancy Herrera, dated December 21, 2022 to secure the original principal amount of $347,588.00, and recorded in Book 8630 at Page 371 of the Union County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modi ed by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 309 Catawba Circle North, Matthews, NC 28104 Tax Parcel ID: 07129456 Present Record Owners:

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

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 Jamal A Armstrong.

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

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.

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

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: 148 Shelisa Dr, Maxton, NC 28364 Tax Parcel ID: 23200204201 / PIN: 932569972400

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),

02305032 Present Record Owners: The Estate of Barbara Smith The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Estate of Barbara Smith. 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

Ana Josefa Herrera and Nancy Herrera The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Ana Josefa Herrera and Nancy Herrera. 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

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

con rmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party

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 re-sale. 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.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property

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

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

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 July 7th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Beginning at a stake in the Northeastern line of Winterlochen Road, said stake being distant in a Northwestern direction as measured along the Northeastern line of Winterlochen Road 302.55 feet from the point where the Northeastern line of Winterlochen Road begins to curve into Jessup Drive, said stake also marking a common corner of Lots 127 and 128 on map to which reference is hereinafter made; runs thence along the Northeastern line of Winterlochen Road in a Northwestern direction 90 feet to a stake, a common corner of Lots 128 and 129; runs thence along the dividing line between Lots 128 and 129 in a Northeastern direction 175 feet to a stake, a common corner of Lots 128, 129, 119 and 120; runs thence along the dividing line between Lots 120 and 128 in a Southeastern direction 90 feet to a stake, another common corner of Lots 127 and 128; runs thence along the dividing line between Lots 127 and 128 in a Southwestern direction 175 feet to the Point of Beginning, and being Lot 128 of Greenbrier Estates, Section 3, according to map recorded in Book of Maps 1960 at Page 239, Wake

County Registry. This conveyance is made subject to Restrictive Covenants recorded in Book 1434 at Page 565 as amended by instrument recorded in Book 1436 at Page 674, both Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 400 Winterlochen Road, Raleigh, NC 27603 Tax ID: 0080666 Third party purchasers must pay the recording costs of the trustee’s deed, any land transfer taxes, the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105228.30, in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof, and the Clerk of Courts fee, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §7A-308, in the amount of Forty- ve Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or fractional part thereof with a maximum amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit of ve percent (5%) of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale and must be tendered in the form of certi ed funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing. Said property to be o ered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being o ered for sale,

transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being o ered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, land transfer taxes, if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are The Estate of James Felton Upchurch. 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 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 (North Carolina General Statutes §45-

21.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under

WAKE

UNION

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

NORTH CAROLINA, WAKE COUNTY

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Jay Ochoa and Joann Ochoa to Water eld Financial Corporation, Trustee(s), which was dated March 4, 2005 and recorded on March 7, 2005 in Book 11252 at Page 2025, Wake County Registry, North Carolina.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

NORTH CAROLINA, WAKE COUNTY 26 SP 000330-910

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Lonnie C. Wright, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $126,650.00, to Express Financial & Mortgage Services, LLC, Mortgagee, dated January 18th, 2011 and recorded on January 18th, 2011 in Book 014239, Page 02751, 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

26-124649

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 26SP000715-910

IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY ANDREW JAMES LUBERTO AND ALEXIS LYNN LUBERTO DATED JUNE 25, 2025 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 19947 AT PAGE 2770 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA

NOTICE OF SALE

Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the abovereferenced 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,

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

Said property is commonly known as 2804 Orchard Trace Way, Raleigh, NC 27610.

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.

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 July 8, 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(S) 38, DUTCHMAN CREEK SUBDIVISION, PHASE 2, AS SHOWN ON MAP RECORDED IN BOOK OF MAPS 2004, PAGE 1568-1569, WAKE COUNTY REGISTRY.

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 July 9th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: BEING all of Lot 305, Kingwood Forest Subdivision, Section 3-A, as recorded in Book of Maps 1967, Page 241, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 2208 Evers Drive, Raleigh, NC 27610 Tax ID: 0041814 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 §105-228.30, 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 §7A308, in the amount of Forty- ve Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars

the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake County courthouse at 11:00AM on July 9, 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 Andrew James Luberto and Alexis Lynn Luberto, dated June 25, 2025 to secure the original principal amount of $198,163.00, and recorded in Book 19947 at Page 2770 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: 2621 Davistown Road, Wendell, NC 27591 Tax Parcel ID: 0121645 Present Record Owners: Andrew James Luberto and Alexis Lynn

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 Wake County courthouse at 10:00 AM on July 8, 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 by Zudy N Taveras, dated August 18, 2023 to secure the original principal amount of $147,537.00, and recorded in Book No. 19412, at Page 496 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: 810 Silo Park Dr, Wake Forest, NC 27587

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24SP001471-910

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 JAY OCHOA AND WIFE, JOANN OCHOA.

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

($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 undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Lonnie C.

Luberto The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Andrew James Luberto and Alexis Lynn Luberto. 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

Tax Parcel ID: 1840447504

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Zudy N Taveras.

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

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,

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 re-sale. 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

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. 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 re-sale. 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

71631

All of Lot 147 in South Lakes Subdivision, Parcel SF-3C, as shown on the map(s) recorded in Book of Maps 2007, Pages 453-455, Wake County Registry, to which map(s) reference is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 724 Glenville Lake Drive, Fuquay Varina, North Carolina.

Property Address: 724 Glenville Lake Drive, Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

Tax ID # 0367072

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.

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Joshua N. Ellis and Kelby Berry Ellis (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Joshua N. Ellis and Kelby Berry Ellis) to Nathan D. Benson, Trustee(s), dated January 23, 2014, and recorded in Book No. 015563, at Page 02340 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 June 29, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fuquay Varina in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Lying and being in the Town of FuquayVarina, Middle Creek Township, WAKE County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows:

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 15SP003571-910

dated February 16, 2007, and recorded in Book No. 012411, at Page 02289 in Wake County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modi ed by the following: A Loan Modi cation recorded on October 4, 2011, in Book No. 014486, at Page 02105 , 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

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). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. 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

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 June 29, 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 184, Bingham Station Subdivision, Phase 4, as recorded in Book of Maps 2006, Page 279, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 332 Cinder Cross Way, 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). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying

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

residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. 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

Where the road used to go

A photographer stands at one end of the historic Bynum Bridge, located over the Haw River in Pittsboro. The bridge was built in 1922, and at over 800 feet long, it is one of the longest and most historically intact tee-beam bridges in North Carolina. For safety concerns, the bridge was closed to vehicular tra c in 1999. In April 2020, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Bynum Bridge now serves as a local landmark covered in gra ti art where community events take place throughout the year.

the BRIEF this week

8 convicted of terrorism charges in Texas immigration center shooting sentenced to decades in prison

Fort Worth, Texas

A demonstrator who shot and wounded a police o cer during a protest outside a Texas immigration center July 4, 2025, has been sentenced to 100 years in federal prison. Other protesters also accused of having links to antifa were sentenced Tuesday to multiple decades in federal prison. A federal jury in March found the eight defendants guilty of providing material support to terrorists and other charges. Prosecutors say the eight took part in a demonstration at the Prairieland Detention Center last July 4 in which a police o cer was shot and wounded. The defendants deny any a liation with the far-left anti-fascist organization.

Trump administration announces $17.5 billion in loans for 10 new large nuclear reactors

The Trump administration is providing $17.5 billion to speed the development of 10 new large nuclear reactors to meet the skyrocketing power demand from massive data centers. The Energy Department announced the loans Tuesday. Energy Secretary Chris Wright cited “tremendous interest” among developers of data centers, called hyperscalers, who would buy the power, as well as utilities and energy companies.

Roberson to transition from sheri to Board of Commissioners

Roberson was the Democratic Party’s recommended successor for the District 3 seat

By Ryan Henkel Chatham News & Record

PITTSBORO — The Chatham County Board of Commissioners has approved the

appointment of current Sheri Mike Roberson to ll the vacant seat on the board.

The District 3 seat was left vacant after former commissioner David Delaney stepped

down at the end of May due to him moving to Wake County. Roberson was the Chatham County Democratic Party’s recommended appointment to ll the vacancy, and at the board’s June 15 meeting, it opted to accept the recommendation, electing Roberson to serve out the remainder of

Delaney’s term starting July 16. In order to serve on the commission, Roberson will be stepping down as sheri , a position he’s held since 2016. Roberson was already set to take over the District 3 seat as he had won the Democratic

Watch Duty, re tracking app used by millions, expands to help monitor dangerous oods

The nonpro t’s volunteer reporters consolidate emergency information from multiple sources faster than o cial channels

By Gabriela Aoun Angueira The Associated Press

WHEN A FIRE broke out a few miles from his Altadena, California, home the evening of

Jan. 7, 2025, Matt Blea and his family needed to make a crucial decision: Should they stay home or evacuate?

A friend who did mountain rescue told Blea to download a free app called Watch Duty. On the app, he could see the re’s perimeter, track evacuation orders and read updates about the emergency response.

“It in uenced me to leave the home sooner than later,” said Blea, who left with his wife and son that evening before the Eaton Fire destroyed their home.

Blea was one of more than

Patrols, nanobubbles on display at Re ecting Pool as Trump looks for renovation do-over

“I’m

a curious citizen. I reached down to see what it felt like. It was very rubbery.”

David Hearn,

The president claimed vandals have damaged the pool’s new coating as authorities make multiple arrests

By Nathan Ellgren and Bill Barrow The Associated Press

250th anniversary celebration.

The patrols came two days after Trump said authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he insisted were responsible for damage to the peeling coating after an algae bloom occurred. The liner was installed as part of his $14 million-plus project.

The president has con rmed the problems most likely require draining the pool again for liner repairs, and he promised a quick x. Without o ering substantiation, he also said vandals dumped fertilizer in the pool and slashed the coating with a box cutter. $2.00

WASHINGTON, D.C. — National Guard members and U.S. Park Police patrolled the deck around the Lincoln Memorial Re ecting Pool on Monday as President Donald Trump’s administration faces a self-imposed deadline to x a botched renovation before the nation’s

2.5 million people who used Watch Duty to track res burning across Los Angeles County that week. The information was collected, vetted and disseminated by about two dozen Watch Duty sta and more than 100 volunteers who monitored emergency radio tra c,

THE CHATHAM COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

LAUREN ROSE / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

THURSDAY

6.25.26

Supreme Court reinstates murder conviction in case missing 1970s New York City boy

The 6-3 decision rejects an appeals court’s narrow basis for overturning the original conviction

By Mark Sherman The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

The Supreme Court on Monday reinstated a murder conviction in the 1979 disappearance of 6-year-old Etan Patz.

The justices, by a 6-3 vote, granted an appeal from New York prosecutors who had urged them to undo a federal appeals court decision that overturned the verdict. The three liberal justices dissented.

Prosecutors had been preparing to try the man, Pedro Hernandez, for a third time. His rst trial ended in a mistrial.

The unanimous panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit reversed Hernandez’s murder and kidnapping conviction in the second trial because of how the judge had answered a question from jurors.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg had called the basis for overturning the conviction “a slender reed” that essentially ignored a ve-monthlong trial with 66 witnesses.

The justices agreed, in an unsigned opinion, that federal courts should not second-guess state courts under a 1996 federal law that was intended to reduce federal court oversight of state criminal trials.

“The Second Circuit exceeded its authority in holding that Hernandez is entitled to relief,” the court wrote, referring to the New York-based appeals court.

Hernandez, 64, has been serving a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.

CRIME LOG

June 16

• Brittany Michelle Gupton, 36, was arrested for obtaining property by false pretense, identity theft and nancial card fraud.

• Hannah Machelle Davis, 21, was arrested for involuntary manslaughter; death by distribution; and possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver fentanyl, and other charges.

June 17

• Trevon Lamar Bullard, 30, was arrested for common law robbery.

June 18

• Melinda Rose Kilgore, 73, was arrested for violation of probation.

June 19

• Cory Terell Wilkerson, 36, was arrested for driving while impaired.

• Cassey Elizabeth Carnes, 28, was arrested for driving while impaired.

• Brandon Dean Beal, 30, was arrested for second-degree trespass.

• Mathivanan Pothiyappan, 50, was arrested for indecent liberties with a child and felony stalking.

June 20

• Reuben Curtis Hamilton, 30, was arrested for misdemeanor larceny and possession of stolen property.

• Aleaha Renne Marr, 32, was arrested for driving while impaired.

• Marcos Omar Valencia Pichardo, 42, was arrested for felony larceny, assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

• Daniell Jonathan White, 44, was arrested for assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

June 21

• Hannah Michelle Truelove, 24, was arrested for assault in icting serious injury, assault and battery and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

• William Tyrell Davenport, 43, was arrested for assault on a female and false imprisonment.

“The

Second Circuit exceeded its authority in holding that Hernandez is entitled to relief.”

U.S. Supreme Court

Hernandez admitted to the crime under police questioning, but his lawyers say he confessed falsely because of a mental illness that sometimes made him hallucinate. They emphasized that the admission came after police queried him for about seven hours before reading him his rights and recording the interview. Hernandez then repeated his confession on tape, at least twice.

Patz vanished while walking to his downtown Manhattan school bus stop on May 25, 1979. Hernandez worked at a nearby convenience shop at

the time, but the Maple Shade, New Jersey, resident didn’t become a suspect until 2012.

Patz was among the rst missing children ever to appear on milk cartons, and the anniversary of his disappearance became National Missing Children’s Day.

Hernandez already has been tried twice. A jury deadlocked in 2015, and then a di erent panel of jurors convicted him at a 2017 retrial.

During deliberations, the 2017 jurors asked a complicated question: If they decided Hernandez didn’t confess voluntarily when he hadn’t been read his rights yet, must they disregard his other confessions? The then-judge responded simply, “The answer is no.” The jury went on to convict.

In overturning that verdict, the appeals court said the jury’s question should have gotten a more fulsome answer, including the possibility of discounting all the confessions.

Share with your community! Send your birth, death, marriage, graduation and other announcements to community@chathamnewsrecord.com The weekly deadline is Monday at noon.

CHATHAM happening

June 25

family screening of Disney’s “Strange World” (rated PG) in the Holmes Family Meeting Room. Attendees are encouraged to bring pillows, blankets and snacks.

Chatham Community Library 197 N.C. Highway 87 North Pittsboro

June 26

Beach Music Series: Band of Oz 7 p.m.

The MOSAIC Beach Music Series presents Band of Oz in a free outdoor concert at the Tommy Edwards Stage. The lawn opens at 6 p.m.; lawn chairs, blankets and leashed pets are welcome. Free tickets are available through Eventeny.

Philip H. Kohl MOSAIC Family Commons 457 Freedom Parkway Pittsboro

June 27

Chatham Celebrates America 250 10 a.m.

Chatham County marks the 250th anniversary of American independence with a free, family-friendly celebration featuring live music, food trucks, vendors, displays and demonstrations, and children’s activities. Shuttle service will be provided by Chatham Transit; the event is held indoors at an ADA-accessible facility.

Chatham County Agriculture and Conference Center 1192 U.S. Highway 64 West Business Pittsboro

Central Electric providing grants to local educators to fund innovative projects

Teachers, are you looking for new opportunities to fund projects for your classroom?

Central Electric is awarding up to $15,000 in Bright Ideas education grants to local educators in K-12 classrooms for the 2026-27 school year. Educators in K-12 classrooms with creative ideas for learning projects are encouraged to apply for a grant up to $2,000. Grant applications will be accepted through Sept. 15. However, it pays to apply early.

All teachers who submit their applications by the early bird deadline of Aug. 15 will be entered into a drawing for one of ve $100 Visa gi cards. Scan the QR code or visit NCBrightIdeas.com for more information or to apply!

Sanford Farmers Market

8:30 a.m. to noon

It creates the ideal place for local food producers to build connections within the community while giving the public a place to sample and purchase foods and crafts made by their neighbors. Experience the ultimate in food, fun and fellowship in the Sandhills region.

115 Chatham St. Sanford

June 28

The Claptones 3-6 p.m.

This Triangle band specializes in blues-rock covers of some of the biggest names in the genre, including the Allman Brothers, ZZ Top, Eric Clapton and many more. No cover charge, but tips are encouraged. Most shows are rain or shine.

The Plant 220 Lorax Lane Pittsboro

MARIAM ZUHAIB / AP PHOTO

The U.S. Supreme Court reinstated the conviction of Pedro Hernandez in the 1979 disappearance of Etan Patz.

Wine brands chase Gen Z with playful tie-ins to Shark Week, NASCAR, more

Younger drinkers are forcing wine to trade stu ness for sass, a ordability and pop culture moments

By J.M. Hirsch The Associated Press

BOSTON — Which wine pairs well with Shark Week? Does a pinot noir have enough acidity to cut through the grime of a Tough Mudder race?

Is a big, brassy cabernet bold enough of a qua for a night of naming dead rodents after an ex?

And is a wine named SEX too provocative or not provocative enough?

Absurd as they may sound, these are the questions haunting wine marketers grappling with slumping sales and increasingly elusive drinkers. How consumers — especially younger drinkers — answer them will determine whether an industry long de ned by fuddy-duddy pretense can nd its footing in 2026 and beyond.

“That self-important way that wine can refer to itself — we’re really trying to tip that on its head,” said Helen Kurtz, chief of marketing for The Wine Group, which hopes that o erings such as its easy-drinking Cupcake Vineyards wines can attract a generation that came of age on Frappuccinos and gas station BuzzBallz.

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding,” she said. By which she means partnering the company’s MD 20/20 (yes, it’s a wine) with World Wrestling Entertainment matches (“Mad Dog Enters the Ring”), and launching the aptly named Fuel by Franzia line of boxed wine beverages for NASCAR (“Full Throttle Flavor”).

Alcohol consumption has dropped

It’s a fresh lesson on the importance of nding your customer rather than hoping they nd you. Because almost across the board, alcohol consumption is down, a trend that accelerated post-pandemic. A host of factors is at play, including aging Boomers seeking healthier lifestyles, Gen Z’s gravitation to low- and no-alcohol beverages, and widening availability of alternatives such as marijuana.

Each segment of the alcohol industry — valued at around $560 billion in the U.S. — is responding di erently. Hard liquor, for example, has found a rare growth category in readyto-drink canned cocktails. But the wine industry faces its own constellation of challenges, many of its own making.

For anyone new to wine particularly much-coveted 20-somethings — nding one’s way can be daunting, something of a Château du Stu y e ect.

“You’ve got a bunch of things, what you might call friction points with wine that are particularly salient to younger consumers,” including cost and drinkability, said Christian Miller, director of research for

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.

June 28 – Gary McCollough – Interim

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.

LOVES CREEK BAPTIST CHURCH

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding.”

the Wine Market Council.

A pretentious image keeps some customers away

Wine, from the labels to the language used to describe it, historically has leaned pricy and pretentious (looking at you, “notes of asphalt and barnyard”). Wine trends also have favored boozy and bracing styles, a hard sell for folks used to sipping hard seltzers at the club.

Fewer than a third of Gen-Z households own a corkscrew, according to a trends report by the British household products company Lakeland. Even simply trying a wine comes with a gatekeeper: Hard liquor is easy to sample at a bar or as single-shot nips; most wine requires a full-bottle commitment.

A cadre of wineries has begun pushing the bounds of wine culture by ditching the fussy façade in favor of a sassy vibe and accessible language.

Price matters too (the sweet spot seems to be the $8 to $20 a bottle range), but not nearly so much as the message.

It’s about using contemporary communication to pitch “something that’s been made for centuries,” said Charles Smith, founder of House of Smith, the company behind younger, shopper-friendly brands such as Kung Fu Girl Riesling and SEX Rosé. “My mantra is always to communicate the language of wine to everyone because not everyone speaks wine. The wine should be a re ection of the consumer who is going to buy it.”

Can tie-ins to pop culture make wine more relatable?

Bogle Family Wine Collection has leaned in with its Juggernaut Wines. Adorned with almost graphically violent la-

bels showcasing alpha predators — a shark, a grizzly, an orca, a lion and some sort of particularly angry bird of prey — the bottles are a far cry from the placid villas and languorous ladies plastered across so many wines.

The other side of it is getting those bottles into spaces not traditionally associated with wine, said Jessica LaBounty, the company’s marketing director. For two years, Juggernaut has announced “Adventure awaits” as it sponsored the grueling Tough Mudder races. They’ve also done placements at zoos that host nights where people can name dead rodents and insects after former partners and feed them to the animals. Cheers…?

And this year, it’s Discovery network’s Shark Week. Juggernaut’s chardonnay label sports an especially snappish great white and “just the right amount of bite.”

“The viewer base of Shark Week lines up really, really nicely with who we know our consumer to be,” LaBounty said. “It’s another way to meet them where they are already versus kind of asking them to come to us.”

Learning to speak

Gen Z is key

The goal is to bridge a generational divide in which wine got lost. Younger drinkers don’t and won’t talk about wine the way older drinkers do. To that point, there’s a clever social media meme about a Millennial marketing team pitching wine vs. a Gen-Z social media team. The Millennial e ort goes on at length about terroir and full-bodied avors. Gen-Z’s pitch? “it’s giving… yummy”.

Vibe is everything for Bread & Butter Wines, with the tagline, “Don’t overthink it.” As in, pair their red blend with a candy charcuterie board. Or their pinot noir with a Thanksgiving leftovers sandwich. Want fries with that? Try their prosecco.

“The No. 1 goal is to disrupt the shelf because it is so crowded,” said Caitlin Ward, brand and digital marketing director. “Sassiness is a way to do that.”

J.M. Hirsch is a longtime food writer who was food editor of The Associated Press for nearly a decade until 2016.

Loves Creek Baptist Church invites you to come to our Sea Explorers Vacation Bible School Kick-O on Saturday, June 27 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. with hot dogs, nachos, crafts and games. Our VBS continues June 28 through July 1 from 6-8:30 p.m. nightly. All kids/youth ages 4 years to 12 years are invited! There will be snacks, Bible stories and crafts each night, and our closing night, July 1, there will be a commencement followed by pizza and fellowship.

We are located at 1745 East 11th St. (Highway 64) in Siler City right across from Bojangles. We’d love to see you there as we discover God’s Truth Beneath the Waves! Please come and bring a friend.

Bible Study: Proverbs 6:16-19 Church of Living Water; Pastor: James Mitchell.

God tells us that there are seven sins of the wicked. There are six things our Lord hates, and seven are an abomination. A proud look means we are too proud to admit when we’re wrong. Then the lying tongue will butt butt like a lying goat. I’m sorry, Mr. Goat. Then all the illegals murdering our citizens. Democrats and some Republicans are committing character assassination. Satan is putting wicked imaginations in a lot of the news media, most Democrats, and a few Republicans who haven’t been born again. Satan and demonic spirits will bring evil imaginations to God’s children. The born-again have God’s power to cast down these viruses from our brains. 2 Corinthians 10:5. Wake up, America/World! The left-wing politicians are pushing socialism/communism like never before. Demonic spirits have taken over their brains! All you lying devils, repent! The seventh sin is sowing discord, which is an abomination! To all my Black, White, Hispanic, Latino brothers and sisters, the Democrats are sowing discord to divide us. I cast that spirit out, in Jesus’ name. I pray blind minds will see how Satan has deceived you, in Jesus’ name. Though the sins are so bad, if you repent and turn around, believing Jesus died on the cross and arose from the dead, all who call on God, asking for forgiveness and sincerely telling God from your heart that you will live for Him from this day forward, will be born again! Praise God, we need You more today than ever!

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of pinot noir wines, from left, Josh Cellars Reserve, Juggernaut and Chloe, sit on shelves at a grocery store in Concord, New Hampshire, on June 8.

Helen Kurtz, Chief of Marketing, The Wine Group

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of California red wines from Line 39, from left, Cupcake Vineyards and Snoop Dogg’s 19 Crimes Cali Red, are displayed on a Concord, New Hampshire, grocery store shelf.

THE CONVERSATION

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

COLUMN | ANDREW TAYLOR-TROUTMAN

These little lights

Nothing has taught me more about love and humility than having children.

THE CITY SHINING on the hill is the image from the Gospel of Matthew that inspired the founders of America (Matthew 5:14). Last weekend, we celebrated Juneteenth, a commemoration of the end of slavery, which serves as a reminder that our democracy can uphold its brightest ideals of liberty and justice for all.

Jesus also gave a second metaphor about a candle on a candlestick that gives light to everyone in the house (Matthew 5:15). This domestic metaphor is much smaller and humbler than the lofty city on a hill. It provides balance between the public and private, the larger community and the individual family. I nd hope in the idea that lighting a candle, which I am capable of doing, might just make a brighter di erence in the country at large. But don’t just take it from me.

Michelle Obama said, “I know that it can be hard to grasp right now when everything feels so dark. But we can reignite the optimism and empathy and ambition that has always powered this country’s greatest change.” Both the former rst lady and the ancient rabbi of Galilee call us to reignite our little lights of faith, hope and, most of all, love. Love is what Jesus preached and what he embodied. To embody God’s love and to experience it can

COLUMN | BOB WACHS

Looking up to someone not just measure of height

She tended to cut to the chase, o ering advice and direction, sometimes without being asked.

THESE WORDS, of course, come after the fact — a characteristic that seems to t my nature, especially lately. I won’t say I’m always slow or late, but I’ve been known to take a while to get started on some things and then to drag them out until the last ounce of life is gone.

It was the realization, I guess, that on the calendar last Sunday was Father’s Day that got me started down this road.

That and the realization that July 1, soon to be here, is their wedding anniversary date. 1933, it was.

In Bennettsville, South Carolina. They “ran away” — eloped is the formal word, I believe.

Lots of folks did that then, I’m told. For some reason it was easier to get married south of the border than at home in North Carolina. She was 15; he was 21. I know, I know … today that would be all sorts of crimes — child abuse, crossing state lines, underage issues and on and on. But then … well, it was di erent.

She used to tell me she “was mature for my age,” and she didn’t mean just physically.

She grew up the daughter of millworkers. Her dad also subsidized providing for their 12 children by working as postmaster of their little village, and her mom tended a garden, scrimped and saved, and added a cup of water to the soup when necessary. The life of a child then in the days of the Great Depression would, no doubt, cause you to grow up in a hurry.

One day she met a young man of that same village. I never heard her say where, when or how; maybe she always knew him. I don’t know. She did say he was a ladies’ man … or, at least, he thought he was. The rst time they went out — to church on a Sunday night — he was late, and she decided he wasn’t going to add her as a mark in his little black book so she went on without him.

He showed up late at her house that evening after she left but made sure he was the one who walked her home from church.

I don’t know how long the courtship lasted, but apparently it wasn’t extremely lengthy until that day, along with another couple as witnesses, they became Mr. and Mrs. From that union came my two older brothers and then, nally, me.

They’ve been gone some time now — he left in 1992; she followed 11 years later.

I still miss them.

transform our lives as surely as a lit match transforms the wick of a candle.

Last weekend was also Father’s Day, and nothing has taught me more about love and humility than having children. For deep down, I know that life is ultimately beyond my control. I cannot protect my children from everything. I cannot stop the pain of the world from entering their hearts. I am as eeting and fragile as a candle in the wind, yet I can hope that my words and my example o er a ickering light of wisdom on their paths ahead. My comfort is that I am not alone in the desire for a kinder, safer world for all children but that others are quietly shining their little lights. Democracy might be like a shining city on the hill. But maybe it’s also like a candlelight vigil, just one ame in the dark passed from person to person, one candle at a time. The darkness is still all around us, yet as we share the light, it’s suddenly beautiful. You might even be moved to sing, thus embarrassing your teenager if you are in public.

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.

Tremendously.

Think of them every day.

He left in such a hurry I didn’t get to tell him goodbye. Died with his boots on. Best way to go. She lingered. I spent years telling her goodbye until that day.

His was better. It took me months to stop almost picking up the phone or turning into the nursing home where she lived her last ve years. Now I look at the pictures. Remember them when something crosses my mind. Need to take out one of the old family VHS tapes and stick it in ... if I could gure out how to operate the mechanism.

I really didn’t have a favorite parent; they were just di erent. I’m told sometimes children do like one better than the other. I suppose that’s true and may be all right. I don’t know from my own experience. She tended to cut to the chase, o ering advice and direction, sometimes without being asked. “Nobody cares more about your welfare than I do,” she’d say at those times.

I believe that.

He, on the other hand, would let us plow our own eld, learning sometimes the hard way as we hit rock after rock. But even when things went sour, never did we hear an “I told you so.” It was more like, “What did you learn?”

I read something the other day. Made me think once again about them. It was about fathers, written by Margaret Truman. I think it applies to me ... maybe to you, too, if you care to have it do so.

It said, “It’s only when you grow up and step back from him — or leave him for your own career and your own home — it’s only then that you can measure his greatness and fully appreciate it.”

The three sons of these parents were all taller than both of them. I remember once we three boys surrounded him in his living room and took turns patting him on top of his head, just messing with him. He squirmed and howled in protest, but I think he liked it — and was proud.

We may have been taller, but we still looked up to them then. Still do ...

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

Unexplained magic

You’d think I’d never seen wildlife before.

HUNDREDS OF THEM! Just hundreds! OK, maybe not hundreds, mmmmm, 50? Well, probably 30. Still a heckuva lot. My spring Canada geese contingent had landed at Williams Pond, just down the road from me. According to my annual “waiting for the geese“ calendar, they y in around March. Initially, their time is spent, shall we say, making goo-goo eyes at each other behind bushes. These geese-y romances guarantee a pageant of little goslings hatching, roundabout May. Love me some yellow-feathered, wobbly, goslings!

Sidebar: Williams Pond is situated on farmland. So, ahem, the sheer multitude of very sizable geese droppings is probably not ticking o an aesthetically inclined property owner. More meticulous property owners seem disinclined to appreciate the spirit of Wendell Berry’s “The Peace of the Wild Things” (and, of course, all the prodigious goose poop.)

Sigh. There I go again, deviating from deep geese-y excitement when my contingent arrives. What’s the spark that leaves me totally wide eyed whenever I see the geese? I’ve been asking myself that same question for 24-plus years. You’d think I’d never seen wildlife before. Truth. I’ve lived, for many years, in a semirural neighborhood, populated by annual wildlife: deer, snakes, coyotes, foxes and the very loud nightly recitations of huge bullfrogs. Wish there was a bullfrog whisperer around. I’d love to know if I’m hearing a bullfrog choral recitation of

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

Wendell Berry’s “The Peace of the Wild Things.” Or, perhaps, a communal sharing of human being jokes, going ’round the bullfrog cliques.

Inquiring minds, and all that …

Surrounded by annual wildlife, my reaction to the ephemeral presence of transient geese is of a di erent order, entirely. Best illustrated by my love of diving into a ridiculously fudgy devil’s food cake (geese) rather than a Hostess cupcake (annual critters.)

Each and every time I drive by Williams Pond, I am zzy with geese-y excitement. I do love me some spring fawns, but zziness does not enter that particular picture. I don’t know why the marked di erence. I just don’t.

Much appreciation to you, fair readers, for allowing me to prattle on. I set out to discern the di erence in the magnitude of my reactions to the transient Canada geese and the annual wildlife I encounter frequently. You know what? I don’t care anymore.

There’s a little girl, still living within me who just loves the idea of magic (and ridiculously fudgy devil’s food cake.) My aliveness personi ed. Lacking understanding of what magic is (do any of us truly know?) doesn’t mean I can’t thoroughly enjoy the zziness generated by that apparent magic. And I do.

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

Not following the example of President James K. Polk

What if you have been clearly winning a war, by any military de nition, and yet the other side doesn’t surrender?

A PRESIDENT orders the onset of hostilities — war — without authorization of Congress and without much in the way of making a case with the public. His troops win important victories and decapitate large parts of the government of the enemy. But in the enemy capital, no one surrenders or will even negotiate seriously.

That leaves the president with the unhappy choice of launching a new military attack on the central focus of the enemy, one riskier and less certain of success than those before, or of declaring an incomplete victory, well short of his essential objective, and just getting the heck out of there.

One president in American history chose the risky rst option and, despite missteps along the way, secured major gains for the country, even if he ultimately fell short of the broader goals that emerged during the con ict. A more recent president has chosen the second option, though the results are still unclear.

Both presidents faced this basic problem: What if you have been clearly winning a war, by any military de nition, and yet the other side doesn’t surrender? Even worse, what if it’s unclear just who is making decisions on the other side and what their goal is?

At this point, it should be clear who one of the presidents is and which power he has chosen to attack and back o : President Donald Trump and the regime of Iran. The other is James Knox Polk, who served as speaker of the House in the 1830s and governor of Tennessee in the 1840s.

Polk pledged to serve just one term. He told historian and Cabinet member George Bancroft that he would pursue just four goals: set up an independent treasury, lower tari s, take uni ed control of the Oregon Territory and take possession of California. He succeeded at all four in just four years. But not without di culty and controversy.

The treasury and the lower tari s he squeezed out of a Congress with a majority of his fellow Democrats. Oregon he got after splitting the territory with Britain (which got British Columbia). For California, however, he had to go to war.

There was then some dispute about the borders of recently annexed Texas. Polk ordered Gen. Zachary Taylor to lead troops across the Nueces River to the Rio Grande, claimed by Mexico. Mexican troops attacked Taylor’s Americans. With American bloodshed on American soil, Polk called on Congress to declare war. Although one-third of members had qualms, they voted for war with Mexico. Taylor then proceeded to beat Mexican troops in multiple battles near the border. But in the capital of Mexico City, or among o -and-on leader Santa Anna’s entourage, no one was negotiating. The great mass of Mexicans lived far south of the U.S. border and weren’t inclined to surrender.

What could Polk, eager to secure rights to California, do? In e ect, he started a second war, ordering Gen. Win eld Scott to land troops at Veracruz and proceed across 11,000-foot mountains, near the route of Cortes three centuries before, to reach Mexico City. It worked. In a feat of generalship praised by the aged Duke of Wellington, Scott beat the elusive Santa

Anna, got his successor to surrender, and helped Nicholas Trist negotiate a treaty netting one-third of Mexican territory (but only 90,000 of its citizens). Polk, greedy for more land as Scott headed inland, wanted more and red Trist, but when presented with his treaty, he sent it to the Senate, which quickly rati ed it.

Trump’s actions were driven more by anger over Iran’s 1979 seizure of U.S. diplomats than by any goal as speci c as Polk’s. Still, the joint U.S.-Israel attacks during the June 2025 12-day war seriously degraded Iran’s nuclear program and set it back.

His attacks this year, starting in February, further degraded Iran’s nuclear program and, with pinpoint accuracy, killed the supreme leader and dozens of subordinates. He in icted great damage on Iran’s weaponry and its economy.

But the mullahs in Tehran, like the leaders in Mexico City, wouldn’t surrender, and they blocked oil tankers from transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Trump was left with two of his goals — higher tari s and zeroing out Iran’s nukes — seeming to produce politically disastrous high in ation.

So Trump decided not to follow the path of Polk. Amid occasional military attacks, he sought a “deal” with a regime that has paraded its hatred of America for 47 years and has made dozens of promises it has no intention of keeping.

In its latest iteration, the administration has been sluggish in revealing the details. The U.S. will be suspending military action and allowing Iran to freely sell oil, e ectively paying the regime billions. In return, Iran promises to negotiate about its nuclear program and to allow tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, if they pay tolls.

Not much better, you might say, than the “deal” former President Barack Obama negotiated with Iran in 2015, which Trump criticized bitterly then but doesn’t mention so much now. Vice President JD Vance says that Iranian leaders have decided they shouldn’t oppose “the Great Satan” as they have for 47 years, though that would be less incredible (though not very credible) coming from the Iranians themselves.

Perhaps Trump believes he can intimidate Iran’s evil leaders not to do things he doesn’t want, the way he has apparently intimidated Venezuela’s not-so-savory leaders. But it’s not clear that such intimidation is working optimally in the geographically closer, culturally more similar Caribbean, and, inevitably, heading into the second half of his last term, Trump’s ire is a waning asset. Neither his vice president nor any possible Democratic successor is likely to share it.

“If you set out to take Vienna, take Vienna,” Napoleon is supposed to have said. Setting out to take Tehran may or may not have been a mistake. Setting out to take Tehran and then not taking it almost clearly is.

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)

Hillary is right

IN A NEW INTERVIEW this week, Hillary Clinton identi ed the key decision that resulted in President Donald Trump’s election in 2024. It all boiled down, in her view, to a “terrible miscalculation” — former President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s decision to run for reelection. Biden made a “terrible mistake for himself, his legacy and for the country” in deciding to seek reelection at the age of 81. Had he decided to “pass the torch” and the Democratic Party had held a competitive nomination process, “whoever emerged from that contest — whether it was the vice president, or a governor, or a senator or anybody else — would have beaten Donald Trump.”

Or, I would add, they would have had a better chance than Biden did.

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president.

Joe and Jill Biden clearly live in a state of denial with respect to Joe’s unpopularity. In some respects, it’s understandable: He wasn’t a bad president and he left the country in better shape than it is now. So why shouldn’t Jill think that even though she was afraid her husband was having a stroke during the debate with Trump, he should stay in the race and if he had, they both seem to believe, he would have beaten Trump. It’s delusional thinking that must have been reinforced by the deep-seated loyalty of those who had been around him for so long. Sadly, the cost of that delusional thinking is being borne around the world.

The Democratic Party is still struggling to gure out what went wrong. The uno cial o cial autopsy report, which the Party commissioned and then disowned, studiously avoided any criticism of Biden’s decision to seek reelection, which cast doubt on the rest of the report.

Of course, the question remains: Was Kamala Harris the right candidate? That’s the one that even Clinton avoided, pointing out that Kamala would have been a stronger candidate if she’d emerged from a competitive process. But would she have? Emerged from a competitive process, that is. Kamala Harris was the vice president for an unpopular president. She was caught between defending the indefensible and attacking her own administration. She never gured out how to walk that line in the general election and there’s no reason to think it would have been easier in the primaries.

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president. They got to see them both, up close. Harris ran a better campaign than she gets credit for. She did put her best foot forward. She was well- nanced. Experienced strategists surrounded her. She did not use a private email server, as Hillary did. She did not have investigators nipping at her heels, the way Hillary did. It was, considering everything, a smooth run. She just didn’t win. I have yet to hear any explanation for why she’s a stronger candidate today than she was in 2024, and she would need to be a stronger candidate to defeat a Marco Rubio, for instance. Kamala is leading in most, although not all, of the early polls, but that is a matter of name recognition; perhaps more signi cant is the fact that a majority of Democrats, at this stage, favor candidates other than Harris. And Harris has done almost nothing since the election to distinguish herself as the Party’s leader.

Soon enough, we will be hearing more, not only from Gavin Newsom, who is already out there (and being investigated for it), but from Pritzker and Shapiro and Buttigieg, not to mention Jon Osso , Ro Khanna and AOC. The nomination process is awed in many ways, but at least it’s a test, one that Kamala will be forced to pass this time.

Susan Estrich is a lawyer, legal scholar, and political commentator.

(Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

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obituaries

IN MEMORY

Patrick “Pat” Garner

May 10, 1946 – June 8, 2026

Patrick “Pat” Garner, 80, passed away Monday night, June 8th, 2026, at Moore Regional Hospital.

Pat was born May 10, 1946, in Lee County, NC and was a son to the late Ollie Dixon and Milton Garner.

He was a 1964 graduate of Chatham Central High School. He attended UNC-Chapel Hill. In his senior year, he left UNC to join the U.S. Navy, where he served during the Vietnam War.

Evelyn Milligan Cartrette

Aug. 5, 1927 – June 19, 2026

Evelyn Milligan Cartrette, 98, of Fuquay Varina formally of Siler City, died Friday, June 19, 2026.

Evelyn was born one of 13 children in Columbus County on August 5, 1927, to Erico Verona and Annie Jane Ward Milligan. She was a devout Christian lady who deeply loved her Lord. She was always singing Christian music. Evelyn was a loving mother, grandmother, great grandmother and great greatgrandmother. She loved spending time with her family and sharing her delicious cooking.

She is survived by her children, Eddie Cartrette and

IN MEMORY

Left to cherish his memory are his sister and brotherin-law, Lois and Larry Miller of Goldston, NC; his niece, Tricia Hathcock (Jeremy) of Sanford, NC; nephew, Todd Miller of Bennett, NC; and several great nieces and nephews.

Pat spent most of his working years with Cassedy & Fahrbach Cabinetry, in Pittsboro, NC and Cheek Electric Company in Goldston.

He was a talented woodcraftsman, enjoyed Bluegrass music and played both banjo and guitar.

A visitation will be held, from 10-11:00AM, Friday, June 12, 2026, at Goldston Methodist Church.

The funeral will start at 11:00AM.

Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the Goldston Memorial Cemetery fund, PO Box 578, Goldston, NC 27852. Smith & Buckner is honored to serve Mr. Garner’s family.

wife, Judi, along with their 3 children, 7 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild; Charles Cartrette, and his 4 children, 11 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren; Darryl Cartrette and wife, Sherry, along with their 4 children, 10 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren; and Pam Cartrette Ritter and husband, David and their 3 children, 7 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

Evelyn is preceded in death by her parents and her 12 siblings; her loving husband, Charles Howard Cartrette Sr. and their infant son, Charles Ernest Cartrette, her daughter-in-law, Teri Cartrette; and her beloved grandchildren, Jill Smith and Jeremy Bass.

A graveside service will be held on Monday, June 22, 2026, at Oakley Baptist Church Cemetery, at 11:00 AM.

The family request in lieu of owers memorials may be made to the Oakley Baptist Church Cemetery Fund. Smith & Buckner Funeral Home is honored to serve the Cartrette family. Online Condolences may be made at www. smithbucknerfh.com

NANCY MARIE PAINTER HAIRE

JAN. 10, 1942 – JUNE 15, 2026

Nancy Marie Painter Haire, age 84 of Moncure passed away on Monday (6/15/2026) at her home surrounded by her family.

Nancy was born on January 10, 1942, daughter of Otis Clifton Painter and Alma Davis Painter. Nancy was preceded in death by her parents, her husband William “Bill” Haire, One son Marl “Marty” Clifton Haire, two brothers; James “Jimmy” Painter and Johnny Painter. Nancy enjoyed going to church and reading her bible. She loved her Blue Bell and watching the Little League World Series. Funeral Services will be conducted at 2:00 PM on Tuesday (6/23/2026) at the Haywood Bible Church with the Rev. Greg Little, O ciating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Two sons survive Nancy, William Michael Haire (Barbara) of Sanford, NC. and William Mark Haire (Tammy) of League City, Texas, and several nieces and nephews also survive Nancy. Nine grandchildren and Eleven Great-grandchildren. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Haywood Bible Church on Tuesday.

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.

JEARLINE HANCOCK BROWN

FEB. 28, 1934 – JUNE 21, 2026

Jearline Hancock Brown, 92, of Bennett, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at her home surrounded by her family. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Pleasant Grove

Christian Church with Pastor Jimmy Jones and Pastor Don Edwards presiding. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service from 12:45-1:45 pm and return to the fellowship hall following the committal. Joyce-Brady Chapel will be open from 1:00-5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, for friends to sign the register. Friends are welcome to visit the family at her home and will formally gather on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, from 5:00-8:00 p.m.

Jearline was born on February 28, 1934, to Graham and Mossie Wilson Hancock.

In addition to her parents, Jearline was preceded in death by her husband, J.H. “Red” Brown; sisters, Ruby Hammer, Beulah Hammer, Augusta “Gus” Gilliland and Linda Jones; brothers, Roy Hancock and Raeford Hancock.

Jearline is survived by her daughters, Rita B. Holt (Steve), of Bear Creek and Angie B. Fields (Buddy), of Goldston; grandchildren, Beth Caviness (Jacob), Joshua Holt (Jean), and Amber Fields; great-grandchildren, Reid Caviness, Anna Claire Caviness, Sadie Holt and Miller Brown Holt; sister, Joyce Headen (Tommy), of Siler City; sister-in-law, Mary Etta Brown, of Siler City; brother-in-law, Jimmy Jones, of Pleasant Garden and a host of family and friends.

The family would like to extend their thanks to Gloria Josey, Peggy Beavers, Nancy Dunn, Dee Dee Mo tt, and Laura Gibbons for their loving care and compassion.

DAVID CHARLES KENNEDY

OCT. 3, 1951 – JUNE 20, 2026

David Charles Kennedy, 74, of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away on Saturday, June 20, 2026 at Wesley Long Hospital following a series of illnesses, surrounded by his loving family.

David was born on October 3, 1951 in Troy, NC and was the son of Charles and Aitha Kennedy, of Star, NC.

He graduated from Montgomery High School, then went on to attend college at UNC-Charlotte, earning a degree in Engineering.

David married Linda Dick on June 8, 1975 at Beulah Baptist Church in Bennett, NC. They were blessed to share 51 wonderful years together.

Remaining to cherish David’s memory are his loving wife of 51 years, Linda; his daughters, Kristin (Jared) Reeder, of Franklinville, NC and Rachel (Vic) Sfera, of Riverside, California; his brother, Farrell (Brenda) Kennedy, of Cary, NC; nephew, Grant Kennedy, of Raleigh, NC and four grandsons who were the joy of his life; Paxton & Lincoln Reeder and Lucas & Clay Sfera.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at North Ridge Bible Chapel in Raleigh. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Kevin Moore o ciating. Burial will be a private family graveside service at Beulah Baptist Church in Bennett, NC.

Clive Davis, music industry starmaker, dead at 94

He founded Arista Records and J Records, developing major stars across multiple genres

The Associated Press

NEW YORK — Clive Davis, a music industry mogul who launched or resurrected the careers of Janis Joplin, Whitney Houston, Carlos Santana and Alicia Keys, has died. He was 94. Davis died in his Manhattan apartment, weeks after being hospitalized for an upper respiratory issue, his publicist Aliza Rabino said.

“To the world, our father was the iconic music legend whose vision, instincts, and relentless pursuit of excellence shaped the soundtrack of countless lives. He discovered, mentored, and championed the greatest artists in modern music history,” his family’s statement said.

Davis’ in uence grew since the 1960s to span genres and labels as he directed the careers of everyone from Barry Manilow to “American Idol” winners Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson. His groundbreaking support for black artists earned him the NAACP’s Vanguard Award. His exclusive pre-Grammys gala has been an institution since he rst threw the party in 1976.

“Clive’s talent has always been seeing and hearing what other people don’t,” former President Barack Obama said in a video message played at this year’s gala.

A Brooklyn background

Clive Jay Davis was born on April 4, 1932 in Brooklyn, New York, the son of a traveling salesman, and attended New York University and then Harvard Law School. He became an in-house lawyer at a time when Columbia Records was resisting rock ’n’ roll. Seven years later, he was company president and seeking to capitalize on the counterculture spirit he witnessed at the 1967 Monterey International Pop Festival.

His success stories were a

staggering who’s who of America’s most iconic and enduring musical acts — with Houston both a crowning achievement and a devastating tragedy. Davis signed her to his Arista record label when she was just a teen and turned her into America’s reigning pop princess.

Houston racked up multiple No. 1 hits before drug abuse hobbled her career. She died in a Beverly Hills hotel room in 2012, hours before Davis’ annual gala downstairs. He had been convinced she was turning her life around.

“Maybe I should have been more skeptical,” Davis wrote in his 2013 memoir, “The Soundtrack of My Life,” “but I’ve always been optimistic, and I felt hopeful. It felt like old times.” Davis proudly noted the other talents he signed, including Joplin, Bruce Springsteen, Neil Diamond, Billy Joel, Blood Sweat & Tears and other “all-timers,” as he so often put it.

“I signed Patti Smith, the great Renaissance woman ... I signed Lou Reed. ... I signed the Grateful Dead,” he proudly touted in an interview with The Associated Press in 1999.

He also signed the up-and- coming producer Sean “Diddy” Combs, whose Bad Boy Records under Davis scored huge hits, most notably with Notorious B.I.G., long before Diddy landed in prison.

An exec who built lifelong careers

Davis also kept veterans relevant. Aretha Franklin ourished in her later years at Arista as did Luther Vandross at another Davis label, J Records. It was Davis who conceived of the 1999 album “Supernatural,” pairing guitar god Santana with some of the day’s hottest talents to win eight Grammys. And he persuaded middle-aged rocker Rod Stewart to try standards from “The Great American Songbook.” That album, released in 2003, sold millions and was so successful it spawned four titles in all. His collaborators didn’t always agree — Davis won a bit-

ter ght with producer David Foster over Houston’s all-time hit, a cover of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” — and the song was published with its iconic a cappella intro.

And Manilow strongly objected to recording “I Write the Songs” — a song he didn’t write — but it too became a signature hit. “He’s just brilliant at picking ideas he thinks the public will connect,” raved Manilow. But not an infallible gure Columbia red Davis in 1973, accusing him of mismanaging funds. Davis pleaded guilty to tax evasion and had to pay a $10,000 ne, but said Columbia funded Arista to resolve the dispute. That label became another huge success, with country superstars Brooks & Dunn, sassy R&B group TLC, Babyface, Houston, Franklin and others.

Arista also signed Milli Vanilli, the male pop duo that was stripped of its best new artist Grammy after revealing they were lip-syncing their songs.

In 1999, Arista’s parent company BMG Entertainment, a division of German media conglomerate Bertelsmann, wanted him to retire. He was ousted despite support from his superstar roster. But BMG then helped Davis launch J Records, where he found his next star in Keys, a piano-playing singer-songwriter whose powerful pipes and dramatic R&B songs would sell millions of Grammy-winning albums.

Davis later ran BMG’s U.S. division, guiding “American Idol” winners to platinum albums. Some disagreed with his directions — Clarkson went her own way with “My December” — but she apologized after the album opped. Davis was serving as worldwide chief creative o cer at Sony Music Entertainment at his death. He was married twice, and in his memoir, con rmed he was bisexual and living with a man. His family — including four children — shared a loving statement on Monday, saying they “celebrate not only a towering gure whose in uence changed music forever, but the man who led our family with grace, generosity, and kindness.”

Former AP writer Nekesa Mumbi Moody was the main writer of this obituary.

FDA panel backs rst-of-its-kind u vaccine using mRNA technology

The vaccine reduced u cases by 27% in studies, with FDA approval expected by August

By Lauran Neergaard and Matthew Perrone The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — A new kind of u vaccine moved a step closer to the U.S. market last Thursday as federal health advisers recommended approval of the rst made with the same mRNA technology that was key to ending the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Food and Drug Administration is evaluating Moderna’s new shot, dubbed mFlusiva, for older Americans ahead of the winter u season. Moderna is seeking full approval for the vaccine’s use in people ages 50 to 64 — along with authorization for use in those 65 and older while it conducts additional testing.

The FDA’s independent advisory committee evaluated Moderna’s studies of the vaccine and voted unanimously that its bene ts appear to outweigh any risks for both age groups. The FDA will consider that recommendation in making a nal decision by early August.

Tens of thousands of Americans die from in uenza every year, and older adults are

among the most vulnerable.

There are various types of u vaccines already available in the U.S., including three speci cally recommended for people 65 and older. But vaccines made with the Nobel Prize-winning mRNA technology are faster to manufacture than other types — something experts say might help if the shape-shifting u virus mutates in a way that requires suddenly brewing new doses to match.

“Having this technology available puts us in a better position to be prepared for emerging strains in the future,” said Dr. Flor Munoz-Rivas of Texas Children’s Hospital, one of

FDA’s advisers.

In a study of 40,000 people age 50 and older, Moderna’s mRNA vaccine reduced u cases by about 27% compared with those given another routinely used vaccine brand. In a smaller study of people 65 and older, Moderna’s shot also generated a strong protective immune response compared with a highdose u vaccine already recommended for that age group.

Data showing strong immune reactions “were very compelling,” said FDA adviser Dr. Anna Durbin of Johns Hopkins University, adding that “the vaccine looks very promising.”

Moderna’s Dr. Rituparna Das

told panelists that the company’s ability to quickly manufacture mRNA vaccines that closely match the latest u strains could prevent thousands of hospitalizations in older Americans.

Severe u cases in the U.S. generally rise in years when the u shot doesn’t closely match the circulating virus. Moderna o cials noted that u strains for each fall’s vaccines now are chosen several months earlier than the yearly recipe update for COVID-19 shots that mostly are mRNA-based — and there can be a mismatch if the u virus mutates after the recipe is made.

At the meeting, FDA vaccine reviewer Dr. Timothy Brennan suggested the agency was open to approving the vaccine for older adults ahead of the coming u season despite the need for more information about its use in frail seniors or people with weak immune systems.

If it’s approved, Moderna is planning its required next-step study to include 400,000 people 65 and older, half given the mRNA vaccine and the rest given one of today’s special-for-seniors shots. It’s supposed to repeat that study for two u seasons.

Moderna’s data showed no major safety issues, although the shot did cause some temporary reactions including injection-site pain, fever, headache, tiredness and aches. The latter reactions are common in a variety of vaccines but occurred somewhat more often than with today’s u shots.

The FDA said that’s typical of mRNA vaccines.

Those temporary reactions

BOARD from page A1 primary earlier in the year and will appear unopposed on the November general election ballot.

“My fellow commissioners and I are delighted to welcome Mike to the Board and deeply appreciate his willingness to step forward and serve in this important capacity as Chatham County continues to grow and evolve,” said Board Chair Amanda Robertson in a press release. “As our community embraces new opportunities and navigates emerging challenges, Mike’s wealth of knowledge, extensive experience, and genuine passion for public service will be tremendous assets to both the Board and the residents we serve.”

Also during the board’s June meeting, it held three public hearings for various items.

The rst hearing was for a rezoning request for around 20 acres of property located at 4501 Silk Hope Gum Springs Road to go from Residential to Conditional District Regional Business for the development of youth cricket elds.

The project is proposing to add two practice elds, and according to the applicant’s representation, no tournaments will be held on the elds nor will lighting or bleachers be installed.

Following the hearing, the board sent the item to the planning board for a nal recommendation.

The second hearing was to consider an approximately $14 million economic development incentive grant for Mosaic Hospitality. The incentives were initially agreed upon in 2016, however, the agreement was never nalized at the time and had since fallen through the

“Having this technology available puts us in a better position to be prepared for emerging strains in the future.”

Dr. Flor Munoz-Rivas, Texas Children’s Hospital

can be a signal that “your immune system is responding,” said Dr. Hayley Gans, a Stanford Medicine pediatrician and FDA adviser who stressed it will be important to explain that to vaccine recipients.

Earlier this year, Moderna’s data was at the center of a highly unusual public dispute as a then-top FDA o cial blocked the company’s application for its rst-of-its-kind shot.

The embattled vaccine chief at the time, Dr. Vinay Prasad, said the company should have compared its shot to a high-dose u vaccine recommended for seniors rather than a standard-dose brand. It was a sign of FDA’s heightened vaccine scrutiny under Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Moderna challenged that decision, noting that FDA sta had approved that main study’s design and citing a separate, smaller study comparing the mRNA shot with a high-dose vaccine for seniors. Days after the spat, the FDA accepted Moderna’s application.

Moderna is also studying the vaccine in younger adults and plans a separate study in 9- to 17-year-olds this fall.

“Mike’s wealth of knowledge, extensive experience, and genuine passion for public service will be tremendous assets to both the Board and the residents we serve.”

Amanda Robertson, Chatham County board chair

cracks.

“These incentives were initially talked about approximately 10 years ago,” said Chatham Economic Development Corporation President Michael Smith. “Certainly our community was very di erent 10 years ago and this particular project needed these incentives to help move things along as it relates to coming to an area that, at that time, was certainly very di erent than it is today.”

Despite that, the commissioners agreed to honor the previous word of the county as the hotel has met all previously set forth criteria and approved the incentive agreement.

The third hearing was for a special use permit for around four acres of property located at 1656 Campbell Road to be utilized for a contractor’s storage yard and staging area.

The proposal would just be for an extension of the currently existing business, Bear Creek Fabrication.

Following the hearing, the item was sent to the planning board for a nal recommendation.

The Chatham County Board of Commissioners will next meet July 27.

BILL SIKES / AP PHOTO

Moderna’s new mRNA u vaccine was unanimously backed by a Food and Drug Administration advisory committee.

REAL ESTATE

LEARN ABOUT LAND - Chatham Land Experts, www.learnaboutland.com - 919-3626999.

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AUCTIONS

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SERVICES

RAINBOW WATER FILTERED VACUUMS, Alice Cox, Cox’s Distributing - Rainbow - Cell: 919548-4314, Sales, Services, Supplies. Serving public for 35 years. Rada Cutlery is also available. A26,tfnc

JUNK CARS PICKED UP Free of charge. Due to many months of low steel prices and unstable steel markets, we cannot pay for cars at this time. Cars, trucks, and machinery will be transported and environmentally correctly recycled at no charge. 919-5422803. A2,tfnc

LETT’S TREE SERVICE - tree removal, stump grinding, lot clearing. Visa & Master Card accepted. Timber. Free estimates. 919-2583594. N9,tfnc

dishwasher are included in the rent. Rent starts at $630 and up. 400 Honeysuckle Dr., Pittsboro, NC 27312 919-542-5410 TDD 1-800-735-2962 Email: pittsborovillage@ECCMGT.com

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINAIN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE DISTRICT COURT DIVISION CHATHAM COUNTYFILE NO.

22CvD000597-180 COUNTY OF CHATHAM Plainti , NOTICE OF SERVICE OF vs. PROCESS BY PUBLICATION

IVEY J. PAGE a/k/a IVEY J. PAIGE, et al

Defendants. TO: The HEIRS, ASSIGNS, and DEVISEES of JOHN BURNETT a/k/a JOHN BURNETTE and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder, The HEIRS, ASSIGNS, and DEVISEES of LUCY STONE and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder, and The HEIRS, ASSIGNS, and DEVISEES of BUDDIE STONE a/k/a BURTIS STONE and spouse, if any, or any other person or entity claiming thereunder A pleading seeking relief against you has been led in the above-entitled action and notice of service of process by publication began on June 18, 2026. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Foreclosure on tax parcel(s) more completely described in the Complaint, to collect delinquent ad valorem taxes (assessments). Plainti seeks to extinguish any and all claim or interest that you may have in said property. You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than forty (40) days after the date of the rst publication of notice stated above, exclusive of such date, being forty (40) days after June 18, 2026, or by July 28, 2026, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service of process by publication will apply to the Court for relief sought. This the 11th day of June, 2026.

ZACCHAEUS LEGAL SERVICES By: ______________________________

Mark D. Bardill/Mark B. Bardill Attorney for Plainti NC Bar #12852/56782

310 W. Jones St. P. O. Box 25 Trenton, North Carolina 28585 Telephone: (252) 448-4541 Publication dates: June 18, 2026 June 25, 2026 July 2, 2026

CREDITOR’S NOTICE

Having quali ed on the 10th day of June 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Linda Sue Collura, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 18th day of September 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This is the 10th day of June 2026. George M. Desocio, Executor of the Estate of Linda Sue Collura 366 W. Salisbury Street Pittsboro, N.C., 27312

Attorneys: Law O ces of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Publish On: June 18th, June 25th, July 2nd and July 9th of 2026

CREDITOR’S NOTICE

Having quali ed on the 4th day of JUNE 2026, as Administrator of the Estate of Jackie Watson, aka, Jackie Klingler Watson, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 18th day of September, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment.

This is the 9th day of June 2026. Robert Hendrickson, Administrator of the Estate of Jackie Watson, aka, Jackie Klingler Watson 303 Old Camp Church Road Carrollton, GA 30117

Attorneys: Law O ces of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Publish On: June 18th and 25th, July 2nd and 9th, 2026.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#26E000292-180

The undersigned, ROBERT DOWLING, having quali ed on the 28TH Day of MAY 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of EILEEN DOWLING, 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 4TH Day OF SEPTEMBER 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 4TH DAY OF JUNE 2026. ROBERT DOWLING, EXECUTOR 1536 PATHWAY DRIVE CARRBORO, NC 27510 Run dates: J4,11,25,Jy2p

NOTICE

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations holding claims against Charles Albert Lewis, Jr., deceased, of Chatham County, NC are noti ed to exhibit same to the undersigned on or before September 7, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This June 4th, 2026. Mark O. Costley, Exec., c/o Clarity Legal Group, PO Box 2207, Chapel Hill, NC 27515.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of ROBIN LOU FLYER, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before September 12, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 11th day of June, 2026.

Lynn Marie Flyer

Executor of the Estate of Robin Lou Flyer

177 Pine View Acres P.O. Box 535 Goldston, NC 27252

Leigh Anne Kasias Wyatt Early Harris Wheeler LLP

1912 Eastchester Drive, Ste 400 High Point, NC 27265 336-884-4444 Publication dates: June 11, 18, 25; July 2, 2026.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA

CHATHAM COUNTY

The undersigned, having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of THOMAS R. FLYER, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before September 12, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms or corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 11th day of June, 2026.

Lynn Marie Flyer

Executor of the Estate of Thomas R. Flyer

177 Pine View Acres P.O. Box 535 Goldston, NC 27252

Leigh Anne Kasias Wyatt Early Harris Wheeler LLP

1912 Eastchester Drive, Ste 400 High Point, NC 27265 336-884-4444 Publication dates: June 11, 18, 25; July 2, 2026.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of MARGERY KEASLER, Deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the estate to exhibit them to the undersigned at the o ces of Munson Law Firm PLLC, P.O. Box 1811 Pittsboro, NC 27312, on or before the 4th day of September, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment. This 4th day of June, 2026.

COLIN DEKEERSGIETER, ADMINISTRATOR ESTATE OF MARGERY KEASLER

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY

HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of Dorothy Paschal Frazier 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 September, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 10th day of June, 2026. Kenneth Broughton Frazier, Executor Of the Estate of Dorothy Paschal Frazier 3146 Shelly Graham Drive Graham, North Carolina 27253 MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp

NOTICE

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations having claims against George Richard Meinig, Jr., deceased, of Chatham, N.C., are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before September 11th, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 11th day of June, 2026. Ms. Janet Meinig, Executor Estate of George Richard Meinig, Jr. c/o Roberson Law Firm 1829 E. Franklin St., Ste. 800C Chapel Hill, NC 27514 6/11, 18, 25, 7/2

CREDITOR’S NOTICE

Having quali ed on the 9th day of June 2026, as Administrator of the Estate of Johnny Scott Rhoades, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 18th day of September, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, rms and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment. This is the 10th of June 2026. W. Woods Doster, Administrator of the Estate of Johnny Scott Rhoades

206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330

Attorneys: Law O ces of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330

Publish On: June 18th, 25th and July 2nd and 9th 2026.

Notice to Creditors

Estate of Barbara J. Swartz

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations having claims against Barbara J Swartz, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before 9/4/2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery.

Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 4th day of June, 2026. Arthur H Swartz, Executor 2819 Ferdinand Ct. Fernandina Beach, FL 32034

c/o Hopler, Wilms & Hanna, PLLC 2314 S. Miami Blvd. Suite 151 Durham, NC 27703 6/4,11,18,25, 2026

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS

CHATHAM COUNTY

HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of Hoyle Edwin Beckwith 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 10th day of September, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

This the 4th day of June, 2026.

Daniel Kevin Beckwith, Executor

Of the Estate of Hoyle Edwin Beckwith

139 Black Horse Run Bear Creek, North Carolina 27207

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 Clyde William Jones 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 2nd day of September, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 26th day of May, 2026.

Robert Earl Jones, Executor Of the Estate of Clyde William Jones 3183 White Oak Way Staley, North Carolina 27355 MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE

ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp

NOTICE

ALL PERSONS, rms and corporations holding claims against Kathryn Ellen Moss, deceased, of Chatham County, NC are noti ed to exhibit same to the undersigned on or before September 14th, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 11th day of June 2026. Ryan Robert Merriam, Exec., c/o Clarity Legal Group, PO Box 2207, Chapel Hill, NC 27515.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#25E000297-180 The undersigned CAROLYN CHEEK, having quali ed on the 22ND Day of MAY 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of WILLIE MAY THOMPSON, 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 18TH Day OF SEPTEMBER 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 18TH DAY OF JUNE 2026. CAROLYN CHEEK, EXECUTOR 338 CLARENCE MCKEITHAN ROAD SANFORD, NC 27330 Run dates: J18,J25,Jy2,9

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000226-180

The undersigned ROBERT L. HAITHCOX AND CHARLOTTE E. HAITHCOX, having quali ed on the 17TH Day of APRIL 2026 as CO-EXECUTORS of the Estate of EDNA N. HAITHCOX, 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 11TH Day OF SEPTEMBER 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 11TH DAY OF JUNE 2026.

ROBERT L. HAITHCOX, CO-EXECUTOR 3555 OLD HWY 1 PO BOX 232 MONCURE, NC 27559

CHARLOTTE E. HAITHCOX, COEXECUTOR 3557 OLD HWY 1 PO BOX 146 MONCURE, NC 27559

Run dates: J11,18,J25,Jy2

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#26E000310-180

The undersigned ELIZABETH ANN HEATHERLEY, having quali ed on the 2ND Day of JUNE 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of ERSKINE X. HEATHERLEY, JR., deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 18TH Day OF SEPTEMBER 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 18TH DAY OF JUNE 2026.

ELIZABETH ANN HEATHERLEY, EXECUTOR 3548 CRAWFORD DAIRY RD. CHAPEL HILL, NC 27516

Run dates: J18,J25,Jy2,9

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000220-180

The undersigned Lillie M. Alston, having quali ed on the 15th Day of APRIL 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of SONJA MARIE WILSON, 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 18TH Day OF SEPTEMBER 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 18TH DAY OF JUNE 2026.

LILLIE M. ALSTON, ADMINISTRATOR PO BOX 1545 PITTSBORO, NC 27312 Run dates: J18,J25,Jy2,9

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000236-180

The undersigned LATOYA D. FOX, having quali ed on the 22ND Day of APRIL 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of JUNE TAYLOR ISAAC FOX, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 4TH Day OF SEPTEMBER 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 4TH DAY OF JUNE 2026. LATOYA D. FOX, ADMINISTRATOR 97 RILEY LANE SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: J4,11,18,J25

Notice to Creditors

Estate of Patricia Ann Woodall File No. 25E000453-180

All persons, rms and corporations having claims against Patricia Ann Woodall, deceased of Chatham County, North Carolina, are noti ed to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before September 25th, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 25th day of June, 2026. George Wallace Woodall, Executor c/o James S. Adcock III, PA 135 N. Main Street Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526

NOTICE

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, CHATHAM COUNTY WILLIAM ROLAND RIGGSBEE, Petitioner v. JACQUELINE RIGGSSBEE COBB, et al., Respondents (26SP000022-180) TO: JACQUELYNE ALLEN Take notice that a petition seeking relief against you was led on February 10, 2026 in the above partition action. The nature of this action is as follows: petition for partition and sale of real property located at Parcel Number 978500098544 and being 162 Joes Drive, Chapel Hill, North Carolina. You are required to make defense to such petition no later than 40 days after the date of the rst publication of this Notice and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the Court for the relief sought. Wesley A. Stewart, Esq., 5410 Trinity Rd., Ste. 210, Raleigh, NC, 27607, Petitioner’s Attorney. J18, 25

NOTICE

EXECUTORS

NORTH

663-2850 4tp

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000300-180 The undersigned DAVID ALEXANDER CLEMENT, JR., having quali ed on the 1ST Day of JUNE 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of CHARLES LOWELL THOMAS, 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 18TH Day OF SEPTEMBER 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 18TH DAY OF JUNE 2026. DAVID ALEXANDER CLEMENT, JR., EXECUTOR 2808 SEAFORTH ROAD PITTSBORO, NC 27312 Run dates: J18,J25,Jy2,9

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY

FILE#26E000317-180 The undersigned Timothy Perry, having quali ed on the 11th Day of JUNE 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of CLYDE BERNICE PERRY, JR., deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, rms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 25TH Day OF SEPTEMBER 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 25TH DAY OF JUNE 2026. TIMOTHY PERRY, ADMINISTRATOR 2880 PETE ROBERTON ROAD PITTSBORO,

Trust is now owned by the Secretary, pursuant to an assignment dated October 26, 2023 and recorded on November 17, 2023 in Book 2389 at Page 1075, in the o ce of the Register of Deeds, Chatham County, North Carolina; and WHEREAS, the Secretary is the present holder of the Note secured by the above-referenced Deed of Trust; and WHEREAS, Grantor has died and the Property described below is not the principal residence of at least one surviving borrower; and WHEREAS, the default upon which this foreclosure and the acceleration of the secured indebtedness is based, is

of the Borrower/

Grantor, should the Property not remain the principal residence of at least one surviving Borrower, the Secretary has the right to demand, and the Secretary has demanded, the immediate payment in full of all outstanding principal and accrued but unpaid interest; and WHEREAS, a default has occurred under the terms and conditions of the above Note and Deed of Trust, in that a demand has been made for the immediate payment in full of all outstanding principal and accrued interest, which remains unpaid; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of June 11, 2026 is $475,098.63; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Deed of Trust to be immediately due and payable; NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, 12 U.S.C 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR part 27, subpart B, and by the Secretary’s designation of me as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on May 15, 2026, in Book 2526 at Page 633 of the Chatham County Register of Deeds, notice is hereby given that on Thursday, July 16, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. local time, all real and personal property at or used in connection with the following described premises (“Property”) will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder: BEING ALL of Lot 697, Phase Two, Section II, Final Plat, FEARRINGTON WOODS, as shown in Plat Slide 90- 214, Chatham County Registry, to which slide reference is hereby made for a more particular description. *** Commonly known as:697 Spindlewood, Pittsboro, NC 27312 The sale will be held at the place where foreclosure sales are customarily held at the Chatham County Courthouse located in Pittsboro, North Carolina. The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid $482,994.08. There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorate share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale. When making their bids, all bidders except the Secretary must submit a deposit totaling $48,299.40 in the form of a certi ed check or cashier’s check made out

sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certi ed or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the highest bidder, he need not to pay

Pack an umbrella!

The version of this column published in the June 18 issue contained numerous errors and did not re ect the piece submitted by the author. Chatham News & Record is republishing it here in its correct form. We apologize to Erika Ho man and to our readers.

By Erika Ho man For Chatham News & Record

WHEN YOU RETURN from a two-week whirlwind overseas trip, it takes as long as the adventure itself to digest all you’ve seen, all you’ve learned and all you’ll want to research more.

Part of traveling is piquing your curiosity to learn more about the place recently experienced. Before I set sail on any venture, I declare: “This time will be di erent. This time, I’ll research the venue ahead of time. That way I’ll know what to expect — or at least I’ll know the backstory.” Do I ever do this? Never.

Yet, in fairness to my seat-ofmy-pants type of travel, there’s a bit of a thrill in not anticipating anything and discovering a place as a complete ingénue. Of course, I may misunderstand and mislabel what I encounter, as Columbus did when he surmised, after a long ocean voyage, that he had indeed landed in India. Nonetheless, one marvels more if what’s around

POOL from page A1

But the timeline was not clear Monday, with the White House saying damaged areas are still being assessed. Contractors and federal workers in recent days have been using chemicals and ozone nanobubbles to combat the algae.

Trump pitched the original improvements as intended to clean, beautify and reinforce an iconic site that he said had become dilapidated and dirty because of previous presidents’ neglect. Algae has plagued the pool for a century, and Trump insisted a newly installed “American ag blue” coating, which he selected himself, would turn the pool into a gleaming expanse along the National Mall.

Yet within weeks of Trump declaring the rehabilitation completed in time for Independence Day, the water was plagued by a vivid green algae bloom that clouded the pool’s coating. A piece of liner, about four square feet, was observed

FLOODS from page A1

aircraft reports and local agency communications.

The service proved vital, said David Hertz, a Malibu resident and captain of his community’s re brigade, especially when some areas received little-to-no warning about the Eaton and Palisades res that killed 31 people. “It’s like a democratization of data that empowers people.”

This month, Watch Duty began helping people track another deadly and destructive climate hazard: ooding.

The expansion comes as peak ash ood season begins in the U.S. and nearly one year after last July’s deadly Texas oods that killed more than 130 people, prompting outcry over why Texas Hill Country residents and visitors didn’t receive better communication about the impending danger.

“This is painful that this keeps happening,” said John Mills, CEO and co-founder of the donor-supported nonpro t behind the app. “We’re not spreading enough information fast enough on as many channels as humanly possible.”

Mills built app after his own close calls

Mills founded Watch Duty in 2021 after not receiving ocial alerts or evacuation instructions when a re burned near his Northern California home.

It’s a problem seen in many recent disasters. While the U.S. has systems for sending alerts by text, radio and other means, the

the bend is — unanticipated.

For instance, I’ve always wanted to visit Camargue in Provence, France, where the marshes border the Mediterranean Sea. I expected to nd vast wetlands and pink amingos. Imagine my surprise when I beheld herds of white horses galloping freely in the swamp. Then think of how I felt when I peered out the bus’ front window to witness a charging herd of cattle led by cowboys and cowgirls coming toward us on a narrow, one-lane country road. They split the herd in half as they galloped past our bus, surrounding our vehicle on the route. Thrilling!

Another surprise: I’d no idea about the quaint seaside resort with a church dedicated to the three Marys — Mary Salome, Mary Jacobe, Mother Mary and their servant, who escaped Palestine after the resurrection. Nor did I realize that Vincent van Gogh painted the Mediterranean here, in “Fishing Boats on the Beach at Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.”

The stunning 9th-century Romanesque forti ed church is a Christian pilgrimage site for the Romani people, who come annually May 24-25 to honor Saint Sara, the servant. Who “the three Marys” were is open to speculation. Many believe they were the women at the tomb of Jesus on Easter Sunday

When you travel, always expect the unexpected. Ergo, take an umbrella!

who came to anoint his body. Some conclude the Virgin Mother, Mary Magdalene and Mary of Clopas were the three. Some accounts say Lazarus accompanied the women when they settled in Camargue. The church at Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer holds their relics. Not knowing about the three Marys beforehand has opened a Pandora’s box because now I want to learn more about these women and all the varied interpretations of who they were.

Friday partially oating in the pool. The Associated Press saw additional pieces in the water Monday. Via social media, the president has blamed the problems on “SICK, DERANGED PEOPLE!” He asserted Monday on Truth Social that intention-

process to issue a speci c warning or evacuation order can get tangled in bureaucracy and often depends on humans making difcult decisions under pressure.

Often the information people need to understand their risk is out there, Mills said, but it is hard to nd and use.

“The systems are really struggling to meet people where they are,” he said.

On re days, Mills found himself relying on volunteer radio operators who monitored scanners during emergencies and posted updates on social media. The posts helped, but social media had downsides — including how misinformation and unrelated content could drown out life-or-death updates.

A software engineer and entrepreneur, Mills recruited some of those volunteers and fellow engineers to build an answer. He made Watch Duty a nonprofit, which has helped build trust with its more than 20 million users. It received nearly $6 million in grants and donations in 2025.

Watch Duty puts emergency information in one place

Watch Duty now has about 300 volunteer “reporters” who collate and vet information from radio scanners, cameras, satellites, user-generated content and public announcements. Information is available in ve languages and pushed out through maps, text feeds, and push noti cations that can sound even when phones are silenced.

“You’re not going to have to go

al damages include a “300 foot long gash” and that “chemicals have been illegally placed in the water.” A day earlier, Trump posted, “Work will begin immediately on xing the seriously vandalized Re ecting Pool.”

At an executive order signing Monday, the president said ve

Lyon is called the gastronomic capital of France because of a renowned chef named Paul Bocuse, who learned his trade from the motherly women cooks of Les Halles, the marketplace. A specialty of Lyon is the “quenelle,” a dish featured at small Lyonnaise restaurants called “bouchons.” We ate at one. I ordered the specialty, “quenelle de brochet.” Ooh-la-la. Let me use French words to describe it: “Terrible, a reux, horrible!”

So I became intrigued by what was stu ed inside these awful dumplings. I learned at the marketplace that these quenelles de brochet were made from the bony sh and assorted animal parts the impoverished silk workers of old Lyon had to

eat. Pike bones are ground up and served with a sauce Nantua, a cray sh sauce. Apparently the French King Louis XV feasted on them, too. Yuck.

Have you ever heard of the Abbey of Cluny? I was clueless about it before seeing what’s left of it. Did you know it was the largest religious building in the world before St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome was built? I’d no idea how destructive the French Revolution was to historic medieval buildings until I viewed the vastness of this place, built in the 10th century and now in ruins. I had no idea how many Benedictine monks once lived here and worked the vineyards. A last mass was celebrated in the abbey church Oct. 25, 1791. By 1798, the buildings were seized as national property and put up for sale. Merchants bought the stones, and little by little the Benedictine abbey, a masterpiece of Romanesque art, was dismantled.

“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things,” wrote Henry Miller.

“Traveling — it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller,” said Ibn Battuta.

“Travel is the only thing that makes you richer,” goes one anonymous saying.

To this list of well-worth-remembering quotes, I’ll add my own two cents’ worth of wisdom:

“When you travel, always expect the unexpected. Ergo, take an umbrella! It rains a lot in France. That’s why the grass is so green. Rain is no surprise; that you can anticipate.”

people had been arrested and ve more were under suspicion, and he de ected blame for the pool’s maintenance issues.

“I can’t help it if somebody goes in with a knife and starts hacking it up,” he said. He has not backed up those claims, and even if anyone has deliberately peeled or cut the lining, that would not explain the algae bloom that appeared more intensely than what typically occurred before the renovation.

Images showing that Trump’s project apparently back red boomeranged across social media last week, drawing crowds of onlookers eager to see the effects themselves. An unknown number ended up being detained by federal authorities.

One man arrested was David Hearn, 67, of Bethesda, Maryland. A former Olympic canoe racer, Hearn told The Associated Press that he reached into the pool because he wanted to examine the peeling new coating. He said he brie y touched a chunk that was still attached to

to multiple other entities, to the weather service, emergency management website, county website,” said Watch Duty meteorologist Pete Curran. “It’s in one place, in plain language, and it’s going to wake you up if you’re asleep.”

Watch Duty can sometimes push out information faster than local agencies in part because its reporters have only one role to ll, said Curran, a retired reghter. “Our only responsibility is to watch and listen. We’re not in charge of the incident.”

The nonpro t took on ooding next because of its widespread impact.

“We are seeing crazy rainfall in places that it’s not normal for them,” said Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. Fire Administrator under President Joe Biden and longtime data scientist who is now a Watch Duty board member. “Maybe it’s never happened

before, but it’s happening now, so you need to be aware.”

The app pulls weather modeling and other data from the National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and U.S. Geological Survey. Users can view NWS ood warnings and watches, river gauge levels, and notices of possible dam or levee failures. Users can also better understand their risk ahead of time. They can see whether they’re in a FEMA-designated ood area, or what levels on a river gauge would indicate danger, and customize noti cations to be alerted if a gauge reached a certain height.

Preparation, redundancy enhance safety

Despite Watch Duty’s explosive growth, a phone app can’t

the side of the pool, then let go shortly after a park worker told him to. Hearn said he was then detained by National Guard troops and Park Police for ve hours before being released Friday night.

“I’m a curious citizen,” Hearn said in a telephone interview. “I reached down to see what it felt like. It was very rubbery.”

The Park Police did not immediately respond Monday to AP’s questions about how many arrests were made and whether any charges had been led. Washington’s Metropolitan Police Department said Monday that the agency is not involved. The White House said Monday that any arrests have been made only by the U.S. Park Police.

It was not immediately apparent what criminal or civil violation someone might commit reaching into the pool. Trump, in one of his Truth Social posts, cited laws against defacing monuments as grounds for imprisoning anyone harming the pool.

solve all the challenges with informing the public during emergencies.

“I love seeing products like this come out, but one thing we know to be true in the Texas oods, is a warning is only as good as the knowledge to do something about it,” said Chad Berginnis, executive director of the Association of State Floodplain Managers.

The ASFPM recommends knowing how to reach an evacuation zone and not just having an emergency plan, but practicing it. “One of the massive failures is not knowing what to do,” said Berginnis. The national infrastructure for monitoring weather and alerting the public is also at risk from past and proposed funding cuts to federal agencies and local emergency warning systems. “At the end of the day, if you want eyes and ears out there, you’ve got to pay for it,” said Berginnis.

Mills stressed Watch Duty is not meant to replace the work of weather and emergency agencies.

“We need National Weather Service, we need re service, we need all this infrastructure to operate,” he said, adding users should still enroll in their local alerting system.

And of course, a phone app is only helpful to those who download it, and who have cell coverage to use it.

“You have to have redundancy,” said Berginnis, adding that an inexpensive NOAA weather radio can ll in when other systems fail. “Sometimes we get so focused on tech, we forget the easy stu .”

COURTESY ERIKA HOFFMAN

Riders on the Camargue’s famed white horses drive a herd of black bulls down a narrow road in Provence, France.

ETHAN SWOPE / AP PHOTO

People wade through a recreational vehicle park ooded by a king tide on Jan. 3 near Corte Madera in Marin County, California.

JON ELSWICK / AP PHOTO

A piece of the blue coating oats among algae at the Lincoln Memorial Re ecting Pool on Sunday on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

CHATHAM SPORTS

The Chatham County

for the national anthem before a recent game.

Yardbirds snap skid with win over Wake

Chatham County had lost four straight before breaking through

Chatham News & Record sta

THE CHATHAM County Yardbirds snapped a four-game losing streak with a 5-4 win over the Wake Forest Fungo.

Kaden Sajorda threw four two-hit innings and didn’t allow a run. The Holly Springs grad and future Middlesex Colt struck out ve. Andrew Riedel led the way at the plate.

The Cardinal Gibbons grad and Denison commit went 4 for 5 with a home run, double, run scored and four driven in.

Riedel is hitting .306 with two homers, four steals and nine RBIs on the season. The victory avenged a 10-7 loss to the Fungo the day before.

Anthony Lopossay, of Cleveland Community College and a 2024 Chatham Central grad, allowed just one run over six two-hit innings and struck out ve. Lopossay has a 3.27 ERA on the year with 12 strikeouts in 11 innings.

Wins for the Chatham County Yardbirds in the rst 15 games of the year

Athlete of the Week Aidan McCandless, of Burlington and Guilford, got hits all three times up and was responsible for three runs, scoring one and driving in two.

Chatham also fell, 6-0, to the Clayton Clovers and 11-10 to the Carolina Yankees last week before breaking through with the win. The shutout loss to the Clovers spoiled a strong outing by Jonathan Sendziak, who struck out ve over four innings. The current Guilford Quaker and former Louisburg and UNC Greensboro pitcher allowed two earned runs. He has struck out 13 batters — second most on the team — in 92⁄3 innings on the season. McCandless and Aidan

Northwood releases football schedule

5 Years since Northwood has had the same coach and conference in back-to-back seasons

Allred, of William Peace and formerly Chatham Charter, each had big games earlier in the week, getting multiple hits and RBIs and adding extra-base knocks. Allred has a .313 average with seven RBIs and ve steals. This week, Chatham has a game against the Sanford Spinners before the Old North State League hits the All-Star break. They return to action at the start of next week, against Clayton. The Yardbirds are now 3-12 on the season.

The Hawks posted the school’s best record last season

Chatham News & Record sta SEAFORTH HEAD coach

Tolbert Matthews returns for a second season after posting a 6-6 mark last year, the best record the program has seen. Seaforth also advanced in the playo s last season, getting a taste of the second round. That leaves the team hungry to continue the tangible progress it produced last season.

The Hawks lose a senior class of playmakers including Nicholas Gregory and Patrick Miller, but many of last year’s key contributors were juniors, which should help Seaforth stay on its upward trajectory.

Aug. 21 7 p.m. Home vs. Chapel Hill

Aug. 28 7 p.m. Away at Southeast Alamance Sept. 4 7 p.m. Home vs. Princeton

Sept. 11 7 p.m. Away at Northwood

Chatham News & Record sta AFTER GOING through four coaches and four conference alignments this decade, Northwood football nally gets some stability. The Chargers will have the same head coach and same conference as last year, the rst time they’ve gone back-to-back seasons keeping those two things the same since 2020-21. Dalton Brown returns for his third season after following up a 6-5 debut with a 3-8 record last year. Northwood also remains in the Four Rivers 3A/4A conference. The Chargers lose a senior class that included quarterback Grayson Cox, running backs Robert Tripp and Leo Mortimer, and defensive standouts Aidan Hohenwarter, Tristen Evans and Mickell Wilson. There’s still plenty of returning talent, however. See SEAFORTH, page B4

See NORTHWOOD, page B2

4 Week of the Battle for Pittsboro rivalry game with Northwood

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Yardbirds stand

PJ WARD-BROWN / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Raje Torres (1) was one of the junior stars on last season’s Northwood team.

Aidan McCandless

Chatham County Yardbirds

Aidan McCandless is a Burlington native and rising senior on the Guilford baseball team. Following a junior season that saw him hit .273 with the Quakers, McCandless signed on to play for the Chatham County Yardbirds over the summer. McCandless has been hot at the plate for the Birds. In an 11-10 loss to the Carolina Yankees, he hit his rst home run of the summer, adding a double and three RBIs in a 2-for-3 night. In a 10-7 loss to the Wake Forest Fungo, he went 3 for 3 with two RBIs and a run scored.

NORTHWOOD from page B1

Aug. 14 6 p.m. Home vs. Carrboro

Aug. 21 7 p.m. Home vs. Harnett Central

Aug. 28 7:30 p.m. Away at Asheboro

Sept. 4 7 p.m. Away at Bartlett Yancey

Sept. 11 7 p.m. Home vs. Seaforth

Sept. 18 7 p.m. Home vs. North Surry

Oct. 2 7 p.m. Away at Eastern Randolph

Oct. 9 7 p.m. Away at Jordan-Matthews

Oct. 16 7 p.m. Home vs. North Moore

Oct. 23 7 p.m. Home vs. Southwestern Randolph

Oct. 30 7 p.m. Away at West Carteret

The Chargers added an opener against Carrboro and ipped home and road designations for the other games. Otherwise, the schedule is identical to last season’s in opponents and order. Northwood got wins over Bartlett Yancey, Jordan-Matthews and North Moore last season. Southwestern Randolph and West Carteret both came down to one-score margins.

As always, the game circled on the calendar will be the Battle for Pittsboro, against Seaforth. This year, the game has added signi cance, as the Chargers fell to the Hawks, snapping their winning streak in the rivalry game.

NFL nixes supplemental draft; Sorsby’s pro career on hold

The quarterback sued the NCAA for eligibility after a gambling suspension

By Rob Maaddi The Associated Press

BRENDAN SORSBY

will have to wait until 2027 to begin his NFL career.

The NFL informed the 22-year-old quarterback it will not hold a supplemental draft this year, and encouraged him to focus on preparing for possible entry into the league through the regular draft next year.

Sorsby had applied for the supplemental draft after a legal battle with the NCAA, which had declared him ineligible for making thousands of bets on sporting events worth at least $90,000 during his college career. Those included at least 40 bets on Indiana while he was a freshman there in 2022, though none on the games in which he played for the Hoosiers that season.

The NFL hasn’t held a supplemental draft since 2023 and had no plans to do so this year before Sorsby’s petition. No player has been selected in the supplemental draft since 2019.

“Your Petition — led three business days before the deadline, without any supporting information or documentation, and only after abandoning your recent litigation e orts to avoid NCAA sanctions — does not provide a basis for the League to alter those plans,” NFL attorney Lawrence P. Ferazani Jr.

said in his letter to Sorsby and the 32 NFL teams. “The issues presented by your Petition are too signi cant, and too closely tied to the League’s core integrity interests, to permit meaningful review within the timeline presented.”

Eligibility for either the regular draft or supplemental draft is required for entry into the NFL, per the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the league and its union.

A player who is not selected in the draft could then enter the league as a free agent.

“No player shall be eligible to be employed by an NFL Club until he has been eligible for selection in an NFL Draft,” the CBA states in Article 6.

Sorsby is considered a potential Day 2 pick — second or third round — in next year’s draft. Teams will have to be convinced he’s overcome his gambling problems.

The NFL’s letter pointed out that Sorsby’s petition didn’t address reports that he may have violated state law nor did it “demonstrate accountability for your conduct or indicate whether, or how, you would adhere to the League’s rules and policies governing the integrity of competition.”

It concluded: “We encourage you to focus on preparing for possible entry into the NFL through the 2027 NFL Annual Draft.”

The submission deadline for the rarely used supplemental draft was Monday. Sorsby had planned to work out for NFL teams on July 10.

“The issues presented by your Petition are too signi cant.”

Letter from NFL attorney Lawrence P. Ferazani Jr.

Sorsby, after transferring earlier this year from Cincinnati to Texas Tech, was banished from competition by the NCAA for the gambling activity.

After spending a month in a residential treatment program for a diagnosed addiction that led to thousands of bets, Sorsby sued the NCAA and gained a court-ordered reinstatement that prompted nationwide backlash toward Texas Tech. The controversy led Sorsby to enter this special draft session.

“The sole reasons identi ed in your Petition for seeking entry into the Supplemental Draft are that you have been ‘declared ineligible’ by the NCAA, have ‘exhausted all of (your) avenues to continue in the NCAA,’ and ‘want to now play in the NFL,’” Ferazani wrote. “The Petition provides no information regarding the basis for, or timing of, the NCAA’s decision. Public sources, however, indicate that in May 2026 the NCAA issued a determination declaring you permanently ineligible from participation in college athletics, based on a sustained pattern of improper gambling activity during your collegiate career at three di erent universities.”

JEFF DEAN / AP PHOTO

Cincinnati quarterback Brendan Sorsby throws a pass during a 2025 game.

$75 caviar-topped tots; day’s pay worth of beer look at World Cup menu, prices

There’s plenty of variety but not much savings

By Tim Reynolds The Associated Press

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — World Cup tickets are expensive. Flights to North America are expensive. Hotel rooms in many places are expensive.

Then there’s the price of beer.

There are some fun — and yes, sometimes pricey — food and drink o erings at the venues playing host to the World Cup. A $75 caviar-topped tray of tater tots and a $40 empanada weighing in at 5 pounds for the daring or for sharing in Miami. Rib-eye tacos for $8 in Guadalajara, Mexico. Something called a Twinkie cheeseburger that has nothing to do with dessert for $22 in Los Angeles.

Prices, in many cases, aren’t all that di erent from what U.S. fans would experience on NFL Sundays or college football Saturdays. But some international fans aren’t used to such pricing and are calling foul, especially over beer prices that can top $20.

“It’s unfair. It’s not right. It’s wrong,” said Thomas Schüller, an engineer from Germany in Toronto to watch his national team play over the weekend, as he held a beer that cost him $24.25 Canadian. “It’s three times the cost of what I pay in my country.”

But is that stopping him?

“Well, no,” Schüller said.

World Cup beer prices become mild pint of discord

There is clearly some sticker shock among international visitors to this World Cup, especially when it comes to the concession prices. In Europe, it’s

not uncommon for beers to be perhaps around $5-6.

There’s also no shortage of intrigue on the menu at the concession stands at stadiums across the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

“Never seen anything like it,” said Janine Arbetter, a fan from Austria, as she waited for a hot dog, chips and soda combo in Miami last week. The pre -tip price: $19.35, which included a discount for using Visa. “It’s a lot of food for a little snack.”

Some Argentina fans happily showed o their $34 lobster rolls from a match in Kansas City on social media, but in Toronto, the brisket sandwich with chips and a bottle of soda for nearly 40 Canadian dollars ($28) had some online commenters lamenting it as “robbery.”

“It’s OK, more or less, for the World Cup,” German fan Dan-

iel Feldmann said of the food prices while watching a match in Vancouver last week.

Concession o erings vary from stadium to stadium FIFA, the sport’s governing body and the tournament organizer, has very speci c rules on just about everything related to the World Cup — and there are guidelines that concessionaires have to follow as well. But prices can vary by market, as do the food and drink o erings. And that means the experience in one city might look, or taste, nothing like what’s o ered in another.

The “Fancy AF Tots” for $75 at Miami Stadium aren’t really tots at all — it’s three deep-fried hash brown patties, with caviar, creme fraiche and chives. (For those who just want the caviar, it’ll be $70.) Southern California’s Twinkie cheeseburger is in fact a burger topped with a Texas Twinkie — a bacon-wrapped

jalapeño stu ed with brisket and cream cheese.

But there’s also a slew of choices speci c to a local market; for example, Vancouver offers short rib poutine (an iconic Canadian dish of fries loaded with beef gravy, pulled short rib and cheese curds) along with a maple bacon smokie (smoked sausage topped with bacon onion jam that features Canadian maple syrup).

And in Miami, the signature o erings include pan con lechon (a Cuban-style sandwich with pork, infused with citrus mojo sauce and served on a toasted full Cuban loaf) and Empanada Mundial (the ve -pound, handmade, chicken-and-cheese-stu ed dish named after the World Cup).

Both Vancouver and Miami have Sodexo Live as a food and beverage provider, and the typical game-day menus in both stadiums were revised a bit to

accommodate a soccer crowd.

“We want it to feel like Miami when you’re here,” said Zach Williams, Sodexo Live’s vice president of operations at Miami Stadium. “Everything we do around the Miami Stadium, we want to make sure everybody understands that when they come here, they’re getting a Miami experience.”

Atlanta Stadium keeps prices low

In Mexico City, a beer could cost a day’s pay — literally. The daily minimum wage in Mexico City is just 315.04 pesos (roughly $18). Some beers at Mexico City Stadium were selling for between 299 and 310 pesos — about twice as much as fans would ordinarily pay in the same stadium when the World Cup isn’t in town.

But in Atlanta, where Falcons owner and stadium operator Arthur Blank promised the low concession prices he’s championed for many years would hold for the World Cup, pizza slices were $3, 32-ounce sodas were $4, a cheeseburger was $5, chicken tenders with fries were $6 and beers could be had for as little as $8.

Jonathan Arango, a 33-year- old from Greenville, South Carolina, was at a match in Atlanta with his wife, daughter and father.

“In total for what we got — three orders of tacos, a slice of pizza, two waters and a Coke — we spent like $50,” Arango said. “Compared to what we’ve paid at other events ... it’s nice after you paid a lot for a ticket.”

And Schüller pointed out that even though the tournament does come around every four years, it still feels like a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“The entire football world is having fun,” Schüller said, “so cheers to that.”

TALES AZZONI /AP PHOTO

Fans attending the World Cup soccer game between Mexico and South Korea in Zapopan, Mexico, on June 18 buy food at a concession stand inside Guadalajara Stadium.

TIM REYNOLDS / AP PHOTO

This is the $75 dish called “Fancy AF Tots,” containing fried hash brown potatoes, caviar, crème fraiche and chives, sold at World Cup matches at Miami Stadium.

MARTA LAVANDIER / AP PHOTO

Lazaro Luya, the concession chef at Sol Cubano, displays their special, a pan with lechon and fresh mariquitas, at Miami Stadium.

Heim outduels Reddick for rst NASCAR Cup win at inaugural San Diego race

Michael Jordan’s 23XI drivers took the top two spots

The Associated Press

CORONADO, Calif. — Corey Heim slammed into the wall twice while destroying his tires during the rst few runs in the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race at Naval Base Coronado.

It was no problem for Heim, whose No. 67 Toyota inexplicably kept getting faster on the way to his rst career Cup Series victory in only his 13th start.

The 23-year-old part-time driver from Marietta, Georgia, took a deep breath before the second half of the race and reminded himself that he had as much experience as the veterans on the 16-turn, 3.4-mile street course on Coronado Island, just south of downtown San Diego.

“I’m speechless,” Heim said. “Maybe I knocked some good

into the car. I have no idea. I had high expectations coming into this race. I just reset and went after it.”

Heim, the 2024 truck series champion who will move full time into Cup next season with 23XI Racing, led the nal three laps after snatching rst from teammate Tyler Reddick.

“I was able to stick with him, and ve to go came, and it was time to put some pressure on him and see if I could get him to make a mistake,” Heim said.

“Sure enough, he did.”

Bubba Wallace nished second to deliver a 1-2 nish for 23XI Racing, the team co-owned by Denny Hamlin and NBA great Michael Jordan.

Reddick su ered a at tire in the closing laps and fell to 25th, cutting his lead in the standings to eight points over Hamlin.

“To even have a shot at it at the end was really nice,” said Reddick, who started from the rear

after unapproved adjustments to his No. 45 Toyota. “First and foremost, congratulations to Corey. I thought I was going to be able to hold him o there. It denitely stings. Really needed a good points day. Had another really bad one, so we’ll try and scrape together.”

Heim became the third rst-time winner in Cup this season, joining Ty Gibbs (Bristol) and Carson Hocevar (Talladega).

“Just crazy,” Heim said. “I hope I don’t wake up from this dream.”

His peers already think Heim’s for real.

“Awesome job by Corey Heim,” two-time Cup champion Kyle Larson said after nishing third. “That’s really cool. He’s a super talented race car driver, and it’s neat to see somebody get their rst win, especially at a challenging track like this.”

Zane Smith and AJ Allmendinger rounded out the top ve.

Hamlin, the driver-owner who had won the past three races for Joe Gibbs Racing, nished 14th.

SVG stunner

Shane van Gisbergen nished 38th in his bid for an eighth road or street course victory (which will make him the active leader among Cup drivers).

After starting from the pole position, van Gisbergen was caught in a crash that started when Trackhouse Racing teammate Connor Zilisch and Aus-

tin Hill collided while battling for the lead on a Lap 32 restart. The nine-car incident caused a nine-minute red ag for wall repairs.

“I felt like I was giving Austin space, and the next thing, I was in the wall,” said Zilisch, who led the rst eight laps of his Cup career in the highlight of a miserable rookie season. “Really unfortunate. I hate to end both days for both Shane and I. We had a really fast car today. I had a lot of fun. I really enjoyed just getting to race out front and lead laps.”

Scotland fans descend on Boston for World Cup; Beantown’s bars struggling to keep up

The Tartan Army has emerged as one of the stars of World Cup 2026

By Kyle Hightower

The Associated Press

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. —

Ever since Scotland fans learned they’d begin the country’s ninth World Cup appearance in Boston, plans were being made for a party.

“I knew there was going to be a tsunami of Tartan Army (Scotland fans),” said Jason Waddleton, a Scotland native and owner of The Haven, a Scottish restaurant and bar in Boston’s Jamaica Plain neighborhood since 2010.

He was right.

First, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey agreed to temporarily extend bar and restaurant hours during the World Cup. Next came thousands of Scots — one estimate is as high as 50,000 — descending on the Boston area, including nearby Providence, Rhode Island, which has become a home base for many of them over the past few weeks.

Then it was the Tartan Army marching through Boston’s streets following the country’s opening win over Haiti last week — taking over the city’s famed Fenway Park alongside Red Sox Nation after the team dubbed it “Scottish

SEAFORTH from page B1

Sept. 18 7 p.m. Home vs. North Moore

Oct. 2 7 p.m. Away at Orange Oct. 9 7 p.m. Home vs. Cedar Ridge

Oct. 16 7 p.m. at South Granville

Oct. 23 7 p.m. Home vs. J.F. Webb

Oct. 30 7 p.m. Away at Carrboro

Other than the game locations, which ipped, the schedule is identical to last season’s in opponents and order.

Seaforth played just two games with a one-score margin in the regular season — a loss to Chapel Hill and a win over Orange. They held Cedar Ridge, South Granville and Carrboro to a touchdown or less, including a shutout of Carrboro.

The Battle for Pittsboro, at Northwood, is in Week 4, and the Hawks will look to y high again after tasting victory in the rivalry series last season.

Heritage Celebration Night.”

And the taps have been running nonstop.

World Cup fans in Boston, especially the Scots, have put a serious strain on the beer supply in a city that is accustomed to big drinking holidays in St. Patrick’s Day and the Fourth of July.

The Haven, which has long served Scotland’s top-selling beer, Tennent’s Lager, has gone from four kegs a week to ordering 50 just for this week. Other bars have sold out of Tennent’s and have tripled their orders to make sure it doesn’t happen again. Sam Adams said its Boston taproom ran out of their famed Samuel Adams Boston Lager last weekend after Scot-

tish fans descended on the city.

“We’ve basically blown through our own allocation. We still have it, and we’ll get more in on Monday,” Waddleton said.

The celebratory atmosphere intensi ed Friday as Scotland prepared to play its second World Cup match of the tournament outside Boston.

“They know how to party, how to make friends and in uence people,” Waddleton said of the Scots.

Scots ll pubs in the Boston area, challenging beer reserves One of the most sought-after beverages in Boston pubs over the last week is Tennent’s Lager.

Once only available at The Haven, before the tournament

started Tennent’s made deals and distributed kegs of its product to 80 bars in Boston and surrounding areas.

Samantha Crawford, the international marketing manager for Tennent’s, said they started preparing to distribute their product to the U.S. as soon as Scotland quali ed for the the World Cup in November. They’ve also sent supplies to Miami bars ahead of Scotland’s match against Brazil next week.

“It’s been a long time in the making. The next day we got to work,” she said of the preparations to make sure the beer is stocked in the U.S. She said the beer is ingrained in the sports culture in Scotland.

Many area bars, restaurants caught by surprise

Mivan Spencer, owner of Ca e Dello Sport in Boston’s North End, said he is used to handling large crowds for major soccer tournaments but has been surprised by the amount of business he’s seen during the World Cup.

“After the rst weekend of matches I de nitely ran out of almost everything,” Spencer said. “Luckily I have a couple other restaurants I borrowed product from to get me through.”

Over at High Street Place, a food hall in downtown Boston, beverage supplies that were expected to last a week were consumed in four days, said Lauren Johnson, a senior marketplace manager at the venue.

“Fortunately, we have great partners, and our distributors were able to pivot quickly and increase subsequent orders to keep pace with demand seamlessly,” she said.

Tapping in — and out — of iconic Sam Adams

Sam Adams said its Boston taproom ran out of their famed Samuel Adams Boston Lager last weekend. From last Thursday to Sunday, the Boston-based brewer said the Tartan Army drank four times as much Boston Lager as the establishment typically sells during a four-day holiday stretch like the Fourth of July.

To date, Sam Adams has sold more than 4,000 pints of Boston Lager, resulting in about 90 empty kegs, said Devon Sage, a Sam Adams spokesperson.

“We’ve had to schedule four ‘emergency deliveries’ to the Taproom,” Sage wrote in an email.

The rst thing he sold out of was Tennent’s, before quickly selling out of Peroni. Spencer said he’s since tripled his usual alcohol order for this week, saying it’s so “I don’t run out of a single thing.”

last season.

Seaforth players celebrate their win over Northwood

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

DENIS POROY / AP PHOTO

Cory Heim celebrates in Victory Lane after winning Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Coronado, California.

MARTIN MEISSNER / AP PHOTO

Scottish fans drink and sing at a pub in central Boston ahead of the World Cup match against Haiti.

SIDELINE REPORT

NBA Sweeney takes over in Orlando, says Magic convinced him t was right Orlando, Fla.

Sean Sweeney landed interviews for more than a few NBA head coaching vacancies over the last few years, and many of them seemed the same. Talking to Orlando, he said, was di erent. Sweeney was introduced last Thursday as the new coach of the Magic, which was the obvious proof that he won them over by his answers during the interview process. Turns out, the Magic won him over with their questions as well.

MLB Ohtani, in Instagram post, announces second child

Los Angeles Shohei Ohtani is a father again. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar has shared the news on his Instagram account. He and his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, expressed joy over the safe birth and thanked supporters.

A photo of tiny feet and a blue blanket suggest he has a son to go with his daughter, who was born in April 2025. Ohtani missed last Friday’s game when the team placed him on paternity leave. Ohtani was back in the lineup in the leado spot for Saturday’s game.

SWIMMING

Douglass breaks women’s 50-meter freestyle world record in 23.59 Indianapolis Kate Douglass has broken the world record in the women’s 50-meter freestyle at the Tyr Pro Swim Series meet in Indianapolis. She won the nal in 23.59 seconds, bettering Sarah Sjostrom’s mark of 23.61 set in July 2023. Sjostrom had held the seven fastest times in history. Gretchen Walsh was second in 23.78, making her the fourth-fastest performer ever. Anna Moesch nished third in 24.30. Douglass says her time is faster than she ever expected.

NHL

Leafs acquire Raddysh from Lightning, sign him to 8-year contract

The Toronto Maple Leafs signed defenseman Darren Raddysh to an eight-year contract after acquiring his rights in a trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Raddysh’s contract is reportedly worth $68 million. The 30-year-old is coming o setting career highs with 22 goals, 48 assists and 70 points in 73 games with Tampa Bay. He produced the same amount over the previous two seasons combined after becoming a full-time NHL player as recently as 2023.

WORLD CUP

Morocco star Hakimi to stand trial in rape case, French appeals court con rms

A French appeals court con rms that Paris Saint- Germain and Morocco star player Achraf Hakimi will stand trial in a rape case. The defender is currently playing with Morocco at the World Cup. Hakimi denied any wrongdoing after facing preliminary charges of rape in March 2023. A 24-year-old woman accused him of raping her at his home in a Paris suburb. The Versailles court’s decision was released just hours before Morocco takes on Scotland at the World Cup. A trial date has not been announced.

Report: Antetokounmpo getting traded to Heat in blockbuster deal

The two-time MVP will get to play for a contender

By Tim Reynolds The Associated Press

MIAMI — Giannis Antetokounmpo wants more championships. So do the Miami Heat. Their interests are o cially aligned — and the Heat nally have another superstar.

Ending a marathon watch for the next great Miami get, the Heat reportedly landed Antetokounmpo — a two -time NBA MVP and 10-time All- Star — from the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for a massive haul of players and draft picks.

The terms: Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis are heading to Miami for Wisconsin native Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kel’el Ware and Kasparas Jakucionis.

Milwaukee also gets the No. 13 selection in this year’s draft, along with a rst-round pick swap in 2030, rst-round picks in 2031 and 2033 and a second-rounder in 2033. At 31, the Heat clearly believe Antetokounmpo still has many good years left — and it’s generally presumed that by making this deal they’ll give the Greek superstar a massive extension later this year.

He was a perennial MVP candidate in Milwaukee, getting votes for that award in nine consecutive seasons before 2025-26 when too many missed games left him ineligible.

He has averaged 24.1 points and 9.9 rebounds per game in his career, with 10 consecutive seasons of averaging at least 22.9 points — with three years in there of averaging more than 30 points per game.

Only seven active players have more points in their careers than Antetokounmpo.

Antetokounmpo had been mentioned in trade talks countless times in recent years, with the Bucks always insisting they had no interest in trading their best player.

But this time, it seemed di erent.

The Bucks, who red Doc Rivers as coach after the season, don’t have a roster that would be considered a championship contender. By trading Antetokounmpo, they can essentially start over with four players (and the Heat were high on all of them) along with draft capital.

“I just think before the draft is a natural time, right, because if Giannis does play somewhere else we’re going to get a lot of assets. ... You’ve got to get it right,” Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam said in May, when the team introduced new coach Taylor Jenkins — who was told that Antetokounmpo may or may not be with the franchise when next season starts.

Antetokounmpo had spoken highly of Miami many times over the years, even when the Heat and Bucks were going head-to-head in the playo s.

“They’re going to play tough and they’re not going to stop playing,” Antetokounmpo said after Milwaukee played Miami

“They’re going to play tough and they’re not going to stop playing. That’s the Miami Heat culture.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo after a March game against the Heat

on March 12. “That’s the Miami Heat culture.”

That would be the penultimate game for Antetokounmpo in a Bucks uniform. He played three nights later against Indiana, then was held out of Milwaukee’s nal 15 games of the season. He landed awkwardly on a dunk in that Indiana game and didn’t play again due to what team o cials had labeled as a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise. Antetokounmpo said he was healthy and wanted to play, a dispute that resulted in an investigation by the league o ce. Antetokounmpo said com-

ing into the 2025-26 season that he is at the point in his career where he thinks about his legacy, and how more championships are important to him. Told he is already considered an all-time great, he bristled at the notion.

“I’m not there yet,” Antetokounmpo said that day at Bucks training camp. That’s hard to believe considering his resume. He’s won a championship. He’s been an MVP. He’s been an NBA Finals MVP. He’s a perennial All-Star and All-NBA pick. He’s one of only seven players born somewhere other than the 50 states of the U.S. to have reached the 20,000-point mark. In 2025, he led Greece to its rst EuroBasket medal in 16 years.

“Every basketball player, every athlete, starts a career and they have this quest of what they want to accomplish and what to be remembered for,” Antetokounmpo said in that same training camp interview. “And I think at this point, I’ve accomplished everything that I’ve put my mind to.”

Amateur stars Russell, Koivun grouped in US Open’s ‘future

Just 17 and 21 years old, the pair shows great potential

By Brian Mahoney The Associated Press

SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. —

Miles Russell had a long walk to his ball at the end of a long U.S. Open round with Jackson Koivun on Saturday after smashing his tee shot 407 yards on the 18th hole.

“Not bad, not bad,” Russell said afterward with a smile. “I hit that one pretty good.”

Imagine what he might be able to do when he’s all grown up. The 17-year-old Russell and 21-year-old Koivun were paired together in the third round, a grouping that was being referred to during TV coverage as the future of golf.

Already so accomplished before they are even professionals — Russell hasn’t even started college yet — both players understand why such expectations have been placed on them.

“I mean, I’m trying not to think about that,” Koivun said. “Just taking it one day at a time and let my golf game do the talking, but those are great compliments.”

Both players shot 4-over 74, dropping to 7 over for the tournament. Those scores weren’t too bad on a dicult day at windy Shinnecock Hills for any golfer, let alone two that were playing on the weekend for the rst

of golf’ pairing

“I think we just keep doing what we’re doing, and see where it takes us”

Miles Russell

time in a major championship.

It’s expected to be the rst of many times for both.

Koivun is about to turn pro after a dominant college career in which he led Auburn to two national championships in three seasons, becoming the rst freshman since Justin Thomas in 2012 to win the Haskins Award, given to the nation’s top collegiate golfer. He won the Southeastern Conference individual title all three years and has been the

world’s top-ranked amateur. Russell is now the next big thing. The left-hander is ranked No. 1 in the American Junior Golf Association and No. 7 among all amateurs in the world. He is headed to Florida State and will be a teammate with Charlie Woods, Tiger Woods’ son, who carried Russell’s bag when he earned his spot in the U.S. Open through a 36-hole quali er.

“He’s been been in the game for a while and he’s just such a good player,” Koivun said.

The players who didn’t know each other well before this weekend were paired again Sunday. Russell, who played with 54-year-old Padraig Harrington in the rst two rounds, took advantage of a chance to be with someone closer to his age Saturday to get some advice about school.

Like Koivun, he tried to downplay the “future of golf” hype around them.

“I don’t know, that’s kind of crazy,” Russell said. “I mean, I think the main thing is just keep enjoying it because if you’re not enjoying it, you may not have much of a future in it. So, I think we just keep doing what we’re doing, and see where it takes us.

“Golf is a very di cult sport,” he added. “One day you have it and the next day it’s gone, so I think you just have to kind of block it out and just keep doing what you’re doing, and hopefully one day that’s true.” Still, he could tell there was an interest in them, even though they were out early in the morning, long before anyone near the top of the leaderboard.

“At the beginning, we had some good crowds out there,” Russell said. “I think if we might have played a little better, they might have stuck around a little longer, but it was cool.”

Koivun and Russell were two of the ve amateurs who made the cut, a group that was led by 21-year-old Ryder Cowan. Cowan, who will be a senior at Oklahoma, was tied for 11th after 36 holes.

So perhaps the future of golf goes beyond Koivun and Russell.

“Yeah, I mean, amateur golf is in a great spot right now,” Koivun said. “The college kids are de nitely showing o , showing o how good they are, and for ve of us to make it through, it’s quite impressive.”

SETH WENIG / AP PHOTO

Miles Russell and Jackson Koivu walk on the 14th hole during the third round of the U.S. Open.

MARTA LAVANDIER / AP PHOTO

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo dribbles the ball during a game against the Miami Heat.

this week in history

Custer’s Last Stand, Anne Frank’s diary published, Battle of Gettysburg begins

The Associated Press

JUNE 25

1876: The Battle of the Little Bighorn, also known as Custer’s Last Stand, began in Montana Territory. About 268 members of the 7th Cavalry Regiment were killed, including George Armstrong Custer and Mark Kellogg, the first Associated Press reporter to die while covering a conflict.

1947: “The Diary of a Young Girl,” the journal of Anne Frank, was first published. The book chronicled her family’s years in hiding from the Nazis in Amsterdam during World War II.

1950: War broke out on the Korean Peninsula as communist forces from North Korea invaded South Korea. The conflict lasted more than three years and resulted in an estimated 4 million deaths, most of them civilians.

JUNE 26

1917: U.S. troops entered World War I as the first soldiers of the American Expeditionary Force landed in Saint-Nazaire, France.

1963: President John F. Kennedy visited West Berlin and delivered his famous “Ich bin ein Berliner” speech, expressing solidarity with the city’s residents.

2015: In its 5 - 4 ruling in the Obergefell v. Hodges case, the U.S. Supreme Court legalized same - sex marriage nationwide.

ANNE FRANK HOUSE VIA WIKIPEDIA

On June 25, 1947, “The Diary of a Young Girl” was rst published.

JUNE 27

1844: Mormon leader Joseph Smith and his brother, Hyrum, were killed by a mob in Carthage, Illinois.

1957: Hurricane Audrey slammed into coastal Louisiana and Texas as a Category 4 storm, causing as many as 600 deaths.

1967: Barclays unveiled the world’s rst automated teller machine (ATM) in En eld, north of London.

JUNE 28

1914: Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria and his wife, Sophie, Duchess of Hohenberg, were assassinated in Sarajevo by Serb nationalist Gavrilo Princip, an act that helped spark World War I.

1863: During the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln appointed Gen. George G. Meade to command the Army of the Potomac after Gen. Joseph Hooker resigned.

1919: The Treaty of Versailles was signed in France, formally ending the First World War.

JUNE 29

1520: Montezuma II, the ninth and last emperor of the Aztecs, died in Tenochtitlan under disputed circumstances.

1613: London’s original Globe Theatre, where many of William Shakespeare’s plays were performed, was destroyed by re during a performance of “Henry VIII.”

2007: The rst version of the iPhone went on sale for the rst time, launching one of the most successful consumer products in history.

JUNE 30

1921: President Warren G. Harding nominated former President William Howard Taft to be chief justice of the United States.

1934: Adolf Hitler launched his “blood purge” of political and military rivals in Germany in what became known as the Night of the Long Knives.

1936: “Gone with the Wind by Margaret Mitchell was published.

JULY 1

1863: The pivotal Battle of Gettysburg began in Pennsylvania, ending three days later in a Union victory.

1867: Canada became a self-governing dominion of Great Britain as the British North America Act took e ect. It is now celebrated as Canada Day.

1997: Hong Kong reverted to Chinese rule after 156 years as a British colony.

2004: Marlon Brando, one of Hollywood’s most in uential actors, died in Los Angeles at age 80.

AP PHOTO

Lt. Bayard Wilkeson, on horseback, directs the re of the 4th U.S. Artillery against Confederate ranks during the Battle of Gettysburg, which began July 1, 1863.

Hamilton, Domingo lead star-studded front row at Ralph Lauren’s Milan show

Runway casting was age- and race-inclusive

By Colleen Barry The Associated Press

MILAN — Lewis Hamilton

hobnobbed with Colman Domingo in the front row of Ralph Lauren’s Milan Fashion Week show, trading notes on a menswear collection that ran the gamut from bankerly pinstripes to layered festival wear.

The fashion powerhouse has shown menswear in its stately Milan palazzo the last two seasons, drawing an A-list crowd Friday evening that also included “Crazy Rich Asians” star Henry Golding, “Avengers” actor Tom Hiddleston and U.S. actor Scott Eastwood.

Outside, eager fans braved a heatwave to glimpse of arriving celebrities and were rewarded as Thai actor Nichakoon Khajornborirak, nicknamed Meen, and Korean actor Kim Woo-bin each took a moment to turn and wave as the crowd snapped photos. Domingo took a slide on his way inside, as he circled back to his car to grab his hand fan. “I was not going to leave that

Comedian Mencia faces dozen felony charges in tax evasion case

He failed to report more than $8 million in earnings

By Andrew Dalton The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Comedi-

an Carlos Mencia was arrested Thursday and charged with 12 felony counts for failing to report or pay taxes on more than $8 million in earnings, prosecutors said.

Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman announced the charges at a news conference where he called Mencia “one of California’s biggest tax sco aws.”

The stand-up comic, 58, was charged with six felony counts of failure to le personal income tax with the intent to evade taxes — one each for the years 2019 to 2024 — and six similar counts for corporate taxes.

Mencia owes more than $300,000 in state taxes on income totaling $8.7 million, Hochman said.

He has not entered a plea, and emails sent to his attorney seeking comment was not immediately answered.

Mencia was arrested at his Los Angeles home at about 7 a.m., authorities said. He remained in custody last Thursday afternoon and was being held on $250,000 bail. He made his rst court appearance Monday and plead not guilty to the charges. If he’s convicted of all counts, he could get more than 11 years in prison, along with paying the tax bills and interest that will almost double the total.

The charges are the rst led under the new district attorney’s new Business Tax Fraud Unit that was established in May by Hochman, a former longtime prosecutor of tax cases.

Mencia regularly paid taxes before 2019, Hochman said. He was sent 78 notices from the state about his delinquent bills, with no response.

The charges deal only with state taxes. Hochman said the IRS has not informed his o ce

Lewis Hamilton, right hugs Colman Domingo as he arrives for the Ralph Lauren Spring/Summer 2027 men’s collection presented in Milan, Italy, last Friday.

fan in that car,” Domingo said after the evening show. “Then my heel just slid, and I was safe. But I got the fan, which was the most important thing.”

From Brooklyn to the Hamptons

Daytime suits from Ralph Lauren’s luxury Purple line quickly morphed into tuxedo shirts and sti bow ties under trailing patchwork denim coats

that showed signs of distress. Looks were nished with berets worn askew, aviator glasses and pocket watch chains.

“Today I saw it felt like 1920s-inspired,” Domingo said, stopping to listen to Nat King Cole play in the background. “It’s evocative of what we saw today. A mixture of old and new.”

On the more casual side, colorful madras plaids held together the sportier Polo collection of layered knitwear, rugby

shirts and light pu ers more adapted to a mountain festival or nighttime beach party than a Milan heatwave. Some looks were straight out of the “Preppy Handbook,” with pink and green happily colliding. Cheekily, the coveted Polo Bear motif on knitwear wore out ts matching the runway.

From Purple to Polo, timeless accessories

Formal and casual looks gradually converged throughout the collection, without regard for occasion. Silk scarves accenting suits became colorful bandanas on casual looks. Ties became belts and were sewn together to make bags, suggesting a reusability on trend with up-cycling. Footwear ranged from leather sherman’s sandals to velvet slippers and espadrilles to rain-resistant duck boots. For bags, men can choose from Ralph Lauren-branded canvas totes or luxury snakeskin portfolios and bags. Eastwood said he had his eye on a snakeskin bag. “This is just a classy brand that’s timeless,’’ said Eastwood.

Comedian Carlos Mencia performs during the Tr3s: MTV, Musica y Mas

of Mencia’s federal tax status.

Born Ned Arnel Holness in Honduras and raised in East Los Angeles, Mencia began doing stand-up in LA clubs in the late 1980s. By the early 2000s, he became one of the most popular comics in the U.S. and also did some acting in lm and television. He had his own TV series, “Mind of Mencia,” combining stand-up with sketches on Comedy Central from 2005 to 2008.

Hochman pointed out at the news conference that on the show in 2007, Mencia said, “Maybe I’m di erent, but I think taxes are a good thing.”

His comedy most often dealt with race, class and Latino culture. His career took a downward turn as he was hit with accusations from many fellow comedians of joke theft, which he always denied, from other comics. Joe Rogan, then best known as a stand-up comic, con-

fronted him on a club stage on the issue in a video that went viral in 2007. Mencia had long discussions on Marc Maron’s podcast on the alleged plagiarism, acknowledging that he may have absorbed others’ material but denying outright theft. He still does regular stand-up shows, touring clubs and small theaters. He’s scheduled to do a series of dates in Southern California this week and Las Vegas next week.

JASON DECROW / AP IMAGES FOR TR3S: MTV, MUSICA Y MAS

Upfront in New York.

ANTONIO CALANNI / AP PHOTO

famous birthdays this week

Civil rights activist James Meredith turns 93, Ricky Gervais celebrates 65, Twyla Tharp hits 85

The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week.

JUNE 25

Civil rights activist James Meredith is 93. Singer Carly Simon is 83. Actor - comedian Jimmie Walker is 79. Musician Tim Finn is 74. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor is 72. Actor -writer - comedian Ricky Gervais is 65.

JUNE 26

Jazz musician- composer Dave Grusin is 92. Brazilian singer - songwriter and politician Gilberto Gil is 84. Basketball Hall of Fame coach Tara VanDerveer is 73. Musician Mick Jones (The Clash, Big Audio Dynamite) is 71. Filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson is 56.

JUNE 27

Musician Bruce Johnston (The Beach Boys) is 84. Fashion designer Norma Kamali is 81. Fashion designer Vera Wang is 77. Actor Julia Du y is 75. Actor Isabelle Adjani is 71. Cinematographer Janusz Kamiński is 67. Writer -producer - director J.J. Abrams is 60.

JUNE 28

Filmmaker - comedian Mel Brooks is 100. Diplomat and politician Hans Blix is 98. Actor Kathy Bates is 78. Football Hall of Famer John Elway is 66. Actor John Cusack is 60. Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk is 55. Country singer -TV personality Kellie Pickler is 39.

JUNE 29

Songwriter L. Russell Brown is 86. Singer - songwriter Garland Je reys is 83. Actor Gary Busey is 82. Former actor and politician Fred Grandy is 78. Rock musician Ian Paice (Deep Purple) is 78. Singer Don Dokken is 73.

Basketball Hall of Fame coach Tara VanDerveer turns 73 on Friday.

JUNE 30

Actor Nancy Dussault is 90. Olympic track champion Billy Mills is 88. Oceanographer Robert Ballard is 84. Singer - songwriter Glenn Shorrock (Little River Band) is 82. Jazz musician Stanley Clarke is 75. Actor Vincent D’Onofrio is 67.

JULY 1

Actor - dancer Leslie Caron is 94. Actor Jamie Farr (“M*A*S*H”) is 92. Dancer - choreographer Twyla Tharp is 85. Actor Genevieve Bujold is 84. Rock singer Deborah Harry (Blondie) is 81. Actor Terrence Mann is 75. Rock singer Fred Schneider (The B - 52s) is 75. Actor - comedian Dan Aykroyd is 74. Actor Alan Ruck is 70.

ROGELIO V. SOLIS / AP PHOTO

Civil rights activist James Meredith turns 93 on Thursday.

EDUARDO MUNOZ ALVAREZ / AP PHOTO Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor turns 72 on Thursday.

TONY AVELAR / AP PHOTO

Paul Simon, ‘In the Hand of Dante,’

‘Avatar: The Last Airbender,’ Star Fox

British rockers Muse drop “The Wow! Signal”

By Jake Coyle

The Associated Press

A PAUL SIMON concert special and Season 2 of the live -action “Avatar: The Last Airbender” 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: a new Larry David series celebrating American history, the horror lm “Undertone” and the return of Star Fox.

MOVIES TO STREAM

Filmmaker Ian Tuason uses soundscapes to scare audiences in his debut feature “Undertone,” a minimalist auditory horror about a paranormal podcaster that is streaming on HBO Max on Friday. In his review for The Associated Press, lm writer Jake Coyle wrote that “it’s a testament to Tuason’s evident lmmaking talent that, with these bare bones, ‘Undertone’ swells into a gripping and unsettling experience. This is a movie that summons many of its scares with a sudden boost in audio levels, the thunderous tick of a clock or the scream of … a tea kettle. It’s even rated ‘R’ not for bloodcurdling violence or satanic ghouls but, simply, ‘language.’”

John Cena plays a buttoned-up real estate agent whose carefully curated life gets upended when his chaotic “little brother,” played by Eric André, reappears in his life in the new Net ix comedy “Little Brother,” streaming Friday. Michelle Monaghan, Christopher Meloni and Caleb Hearon are all part of the big ensemble cast. Also arriving on Net ix, on Wednesday is Julian Schnabel’s “In the Hand of Dante,” a divisive “literary gangster” movie with Oscar Isaac, Gal Gadot and Al Pacino.

Peacock also has a new Tyler Perry and Jason Blum-produced psychological thriller, “Strung,” that will be streaming on Friday. Chloe Bailey plays a talented violinist who takes a

“Undertone” is a testament to Tuason’s evident lmmaking talent that, with these bare bones, ‘Undertone’ swells into a gripping and unsettling experience.”

job as a music tutor for a prestigious family in the Malcolm D. Lee - directed pic.

MUSIC TO STREAM

It’s not as good as catching Simon on the singer-songwriter’s “A Quiet Celebration Tour,” but it is the next best thing.

On Friday, fans can enjoy Simon’s brand-new two-hour concert special, “Paul Simon: The Quiet Celebration Concert,” streaming on Disney+ and Hulu. Expect deep cuts, new arrangements and timeless hits recorded live at McCaw Hall in Seattle. It’s also a story of triumph — a legendary performer learning the stage again after beginning to experience hearing loss.

The globally popular English rock band Muse returns with “The Wow! Signal,” a new full-length project named after “a powerful 72-second radio burst detected in 1977 originating from the constellation Sagittarius with a bandwidth and intensity that suggested a possible extraterrestrial source,” according to a statement. It’s a tting source of inspiration for the space -y stadium rock band, and an appropriate title for an album full of retro -futuristic synth songs (“Nightshift Superstar”), scienti c vernacular (“Cryogen”) and anthemic guitars (“Unraveling.”)

SERIES TO STREAM

The live -action “Avatar: The Last Airbender” debuts its second season Thursday on Netix. It’s set in a world divided into four nations based on the four elements: earth, water, re and air. A young Avatar named Aang is the only being who can manipulate each of those ele -

Director Ian Tuason poses for a portrait to promote the

California.

ments, giving him power that serves him in both everyday life and as protection. In Season 2, Aang is still learning to master his powers.

For most kids, school is out for the summer, and that includes Charlie Brown and the gang. The animated series “Camp Snoopy” returns for Season 2 on Friday on Apple TV. It follows the adventures of Snoopy, a beagle scout (get it?), Charlie and their friends enjoying the summer at Camp Spring Lake. Just in time to celebrate America’s upcoming 250th birthday, David stars in a new historical sketch comedy series called “Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness. “ Debuting Friday on HBO Max, David plays historical gures alongside guest stars including Jon Hamm, Kathryn Hahn, Vince Vaughn, Bill Hader, Jerry Seinfeld, J.B. Smoove and Isla Fisher. Like David’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” this show is largely improvised and features David’s trademark pessimistic, observational humor. Barack and Michelle Obama’s

“Paul Simon: The Quiet Celebration Concert” lands on Disney+ and Hulu on Friday.

Higher Ground company produces the show.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Fox McCloud saved the day in “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,” but it’s been a long time since the dashing ghter pilot headlined a game. Nintendo is taking advantage of his new-

found celebrity with Star Fox, overhauling his 1997 Nintendo 64 adventure for the Switch 2. The high- ying aerial combat game bounces from planet to planet as players defend the Lylat System from an evil mastermind. You can team up with friends on missions or engage in 4 -vs.- 4 battles online. Blast o Thursday.

MARTIN MEISSNER / AP PHOTO

Matt Bellamy, left, from Muse gestures to the audience after winning the “Best Rock” award at the European MTV Awards 2022 in Dusseldorf, Germany. The band releases “The Wow! Signal” on Friday.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

lm “Undertone” in West Hollywood,

EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Duplin Journal

Southern Ground Manor opens with farmers market kicko

Chamber members, local o cials and community guests attended the Southern Ground Manor ribbon-cutting ceremony June 16. The event marked the o cial opening of the venue ahead of its rst farmers market later in the day. Turn to B6 for more photos.

Kornegay announces write-in bid

Duplin County Health Director Tracey Simmons Kornegay has announced plans to run as a write-in candidate for Duplin County District 2 commissioner. Kornegay is seeking the seat in an e ort to represent the district through a grassroots write-in e ort ahead of the upcoming election.

Stokes announces plan to resign as sheri the BRIEF this week

Farm Act

signed into law

The NC Farm Act of 2025-26 has been signed into law by Gov. Josh Stein. Sen. Brent Jackson (R-Sampson) said the legislation strengthens agriculture, supports rural communities, and helps ensure North Carolina remains a leader in food and ber production. He described the measure as a win for the state’s agricultural sector, saying, “Agriculture feeds, fuels and clothes our state.”

Kenansville Police joins Task Force Model

Kenansville The Kenansville Police Department recently joined the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement 287(g) program Task Force Model. The program authorizes o cers to enforce limited immigration authority during routine police duties. As of June 22, 2,002 law enforcement agencies in 39 states have joined the program.

$2.00

1,000 feet from home: The bu er that redrew property lines

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

A DUPLIN COUNTY woman says a zoning change meant to regulate development near livestock operations has taken away

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

KENANSVILLE — Duplin County Sheri Stratton Stokes has announced plans to resign from his position e ective July 12.

In a statement released to the public, the sheri said the

her ability to return to the land her family has called home for generations.

Marie Turner, a landowner in the Potter’s Hill area, said she was preparing to build on a parcel left to her by her late father.

decision was made after careful consideration and thanked county residents, law enforcement personnel and community partners for their support during his tenure.

“Serving as your sheri has

The lot, where her grandparents once lived and died, had already been surveyed and perked for a septic system. Plans were moving forward until she received a letter citing a recently amended provision of Duplin County’s Uni ed Development Ordinance.

“I am a farmer’s daughter. I do not mind my neighbor making a living with chickens, turkeys or hogs. I need them to eat, they need us for corn and beans to feed the animals so we all can eat,” Turner told Duplin Journal. “I do mind someone changing the rules as they see t.” Under the amended rules, adopted in August 2025, new residential dwellings and

Overturned tanker prompts lengthy hazmat response

O cials say nitrobenzene was contained and roads were reopened following a multiagency cleanup e ort

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

WARSAW — A hazardous materials spill involving a tanker truck carrying nitrobenzene shut down portions of Interstate 40 and N.C. Highway 24 West near the Warsaw rest area June 15, prompting a prolonged multiagency response that lasted more than 23 hours.

According to Duplin County Public Safety, the tractor-tanker, carrying the toxic industrial chemical, overturned about

11 a.m. on the shoulder of the roadway near the I-40/N.C. 24 interchange. Emergency crews from the Warsaw Fire Department were rst on scene and established a safety perimeter, closing N.C. 24 West while detouring tra c on Interstate 40.

State o cials with North Carolina Emergency Management and regional hazardous materials response teams were dispatched to assist with containment and cleanup, along with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and Department of Transportation. Authorities said the material was successfully contained, and air monitoring indicated there was no threat to the public. No injuries were reported.

“Thankfully, due to the professionalism and quick actions of all involved, there was no threat to the public.” Warsaw Fire Department

THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

The outgoing sheri cited gratitude for the community as the county prepares for a leadership transition

COURTESY MEGAN ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY

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STOKES from page A1

been more than just a job for me; it has truly been a profound privilege and an honor,” said Stokes.

The sheri credited the community’s support and cooperation for helping the sheri ’s

ZONING from page A1

manufactured home parks may not be built within 1,000 feet of active livestock facilities. The setback replaced a previous 300-foot requirement.

A review of Duplin County’s publicly available GIS system found no layer identifying active livestock operations despite the county enforcing a 1,000-foot residential setback from such facilities. As a result, residents have no publicly accessible data to independently verify how the setback is applied.

Existing homes located within the bu er are classi ed as legal nonconforming uses and may remain “until removed or destroyed,” meaning the grandfathered status is extinguished the moment the structure is destroyed. In practical terms, if a home is leveled by a hurricane or is damaged beyond repair by re or other disasters, a permit to rebuild would be denied if the parcel falls within the setback.

For Turner, the change was life-altering. Nearly 75% of her family acreage is now a ected by the setback.

“Not only am I not allowed to live there, out of 47 acres of farmland that my family own, 34 acres is only t to just pay taxes on,” said Turner. “I live on Cabin Street surrounded by hog houses. … I don’t mind the smell. … My daddy always said that was the smell of money.”

According to the Duplin County Planning Department and ofcial board records, the changes were intended to protect agricultural operations from residential

Wastewater woes highlight infrastructure needs across Duplin

Recent assessments show that even towns in relatively good condition face expensive upgrades in the years ahead

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

MOST OF US take it for granted. We turn on the spigot at the sink and water is there. We ush the toilet and expect the wastewater to go where it’s supposed to go and be treated, protecting our natural sources of water. Since the creation of community water and sewer systems, they have become necessities rather than luxuries. However, based on assessments of sewer systems in Duplin-area communities, it may become very expensive to maintain this luxury.

With communities like Mount Olive and Warsaw already under scrutiny and subject to moratoriums imposed by the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality because their sewage treatment systems are unable to handle the volume of wastewater, other towns are getting a glimpse into the future of their systems, and it looks very expensive, with the projection of millions needed to maintain, repair or update the existing infrastructure.

Mount Olive’s wastewater woes are so serious that the ability of the town to grow with new homes or businesses has mostly been brought to a stop. The only way a new home or business can be added to the sewer system is if another home or business comes o the system. The town, mainly through grants, has spent millions trying to x the system with very little results. A parade of consultants and engineers all tell the town the same thing: It will cost millions more to x.

Warsaw has its own set of serious sewage treatment is-

o ce address public safety concerns and strengthen relationships throughout the county.

“It has been a remarkable journey, lled with both challenges and triumphs, and I am incredibly thankful to our community, my dedicated team, and all those who have stood by

“Not only am I not allowed to live there, out of 47 acres of farmland that my family own, 34 acres is only t to just pay taxes on.”

Marie Turner

encroachment and create consistent setback requirements. Historically, farms faced strict setback requirements when constructing new facilities, while residential development near existing agricultural operations was subject to fewer restrictions. The setback provisions were approved as a text amendment to the UDO following a public hearing on Aug. 4, 2025, and became e ective immediately. Although no residents spoke in opposition during that hearing, several property owners have since said they were unaware of the signi cance of the changes until they attempted to build on family land.

County o cials have not responded to Duplin Journal’s inquiry regarding whether any speci c study was used to justify expanding the setback. County records reviewed by Duplin Journal found no publicly available study supporting the expansion.

“A single stroke of a pen changed everything. … What happened to protecting farmers’ homes and land and a chance for their children and grandchildren to come home to?” Turner asked county commissioners at

“Our nation is experiencing a crisis of infrastructure.”

David Honeycutt, presentation slide

sues. Last August, its wastewater treatment plant suffered a serious malfunction, resulting in more than 9 million gallons of partially treated wastewater being dumped into Stewarts Creek, which eventually ows into the Black River and the Cape Fear River.

As a result of permit violations, the town of Warsaw has paid more than $223,000 in nes to the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality. Since the mishap last August, the Warsaw wastewater treatment plant has been operational but not compliant with regulations. It has been estimated it will take at least $44 million to bring the plant into full compliance as well as meet the capacity needed for near-future growth.

At this month’s Rose Hill Board of Commissioners meeting, engineer David Honeycutt from McGill Associates, a rm hired to assess the town’s sewer system, told the board that while the town is in better shape than most, he still would rate the overall condition of its sewer system as “fair.” He said the area’s sewage system issues are far from just a local issue.

“Our nation is experiencing a crisis of infrastructure,” one of Honeycutt’s slides revealed in his presentation. It added that a 2025 assessment by the American Society of Civil Engineers rated U.S. infrastructure overall at “C,” with wastewater systems receiving a grade of “D+.”

Honeycutt revealed that Rose Hill currently has 25,000 feet of clay pipe that was in-

us during both good times and di cult moments,” said Stokes.

He also expressed con dence in those who will continue serving the community following his departure.

“As my family and I prepare to embark on this new chapter, I leave with full con dence

the June meeting.

Another resident, William Powell, said the ordinance has similarly a ected his property.

“I’ve got 2.66 acres worth $13,000, and I can’t get a second permit. I can’t build a house on it,” said Powell.

He said he hoped to combine parcels and build on higher ground after his home was destroyed by a hurricane in 2018. He argued that the setback expansion has made that impossible.

“My house was destroyed,” said Powell. “I lost my farm income from my grape vineyard, and I’ve been trying to get things back together so I can do something.”

Powell estimated that more than 12,000 county residents could be a ected, though county o cials have not con rmed that gure.

The debate has also raised concerns about property values. Residents argue that land no longer eligible for residential development should be reassessed to re ect its reduced use. Powell warned that widespread tax appeals could reduce the county’s tax base and shift nancial pressure to other taxpayers.

“When you go to change people’s land where they pay more taxes and they can’t build on it, that’s the problem,” said Powell.

To better understand the broader implications of the setback restrictions, Duplin Journal reviewed Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and Chase Bank nonconforming loan overview guides on property nancing and transfer, which state that underwriting standards used by major investors require veri cation that

stalled in the early 1980s and is past its useful life, meaning the replacement of that aging pipe, as well as some outdated manholes, will eventually need to be addressed.

Nearby Teachey is also dealing with increased costs of maintaining its sewage system. The cost of maintenance last year exceeded the budget by 100%. The town is in the process of implementing water and sewer rate increases on an annual basis to prevent townspeople from having a huge increase all at once. The town board voted earlier this month to lend the water and sewer budget $55,700 from the general fund to cover maintenance cost overruns.

Ann White from the N.C. League of Municipalities told the board the loan is not an ideal x and the income from providing water and sewer services to the town should cover the costs. She estimated it would take a 17.5% increase in the base rates just to cover last scal year’s losses from maintenance costs, and that does not cover any unexpected future issues with the system.

One of the most fortunate communities when it comes to wastewater treatment is Wallace. That’s because it inherited a sewage treatment facility built by J.P. Stevens. When Stevens closed the textile plant, the company gave the treatment plant to the town of Wallace. While that was a great bene t to the town, it does not negate Wallace from being faced with infrastructure issues in the future.

No one can predict the future, but considering the age of the area’s water and sewer infrastructure, the time will come when the piper has to be paid to repair and upgrade the systems. It will be hard to do that without rate increases that will a ect the pocketbooks of people already struggling with rising costs.

in the capable individuals who will continue to serve this community with integrity and dedication,” he said. No reason for the resignation was provided in the statement. Information regarding the process for lling the vacancy was not immediately available.

a property can be legally rebuilt and maintained as a residence.

Mortgage lending for residential property depends on the ability of a buyer to secure nancing and, in many cases, on the lender’s ability to sell the loan on the secondary market.

When a parcel is agged as nonconforming with no legal right to rebuild after catastrophic loss, lenders may view the property as carrying elevated risk. Even if insurance covers the outstanding loan balance after a loss, the underlying asset may no longer retain residential value if it cannot be rebuilt. In some cases, that risk can make nancing di cult or unavailable for prospective buyers.

As a result, property owners can nd themselves in a constrained position: land that remains privately owned but has limited practical utility as a homestead under disaster scenarios, and limited marketability to future buyers who depend on nancing.

County Manager Lisa Hughes told Duplin Journal the biggest concerns came from property owners who wanted to split or subdivide property to family members and found out they could not build on the property if it were within 1,000 feet of a livestock operation.

“We tried to nd a way to accommodate this need,” said Hughes. “The changes allow immediate family members to subdivide their property for family members.”

A public hearing to receive additional public comment is scheduled for July 13 at 6 p.m.

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

June 26

Tara Creek Bojangles Barrel Series

7 p.m.

The Tara Creek Bojangles Barrel Series returns to Tara Creek. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. with exhibitions beginning at 5 p.m. and competition starting at 7 p.m.

The family-friendly barrel racing event features cash prizes, including $300 for the Open 4D and on-site food from Bojangles.

136 Robert Hobbs Road, Faison

June 27

Faison’s 250th anniversary celebration

5 to 9 p.m.

Faison will celebrate its 250th anniversary at the Stewart Precythe Soccer Complex on N.C. Highway 403. The event will feature amusement rides for children, vendors, food trucks and will end with a large, 15-minute reworks display at 9 p.m. The event is a joint e ort of the town of Faison and the Faison Improvement Group.

West N.C. Highway 403, Faison

Duplin Amateur Radio Club Field Day

2-10 p.m.

The Duplin Amateur Radio Club will host its annual eld day at the Cowan Museum of History and Science. It is a free educational public event that features hands-on demonstrations and an onsite ice cream truck.

411 S. Main St., Kenansville

Southern Roots Family & Friends Day

The annual Southern Roots Family & Friends Day celebration will feature a family fun day, a BBQ cook-o , a car show, a sound-o competition and a celebrity basketball game. Scholarships will also be awarded to Duplin County high school seniors during the event.

2700 S. N.C. Highway 41, Chinquapin

July 1

Independence Day Celebration

7 p.m.

Mount Olive First Pentecostal Holiness Church will host a free Independence Day celebration. The event will include a cornhole tournament, games, vendors and free food, followed by a reworks nale. Families are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy an evening of community fun.

130 Ed Edmundson Road, Mount Olive

Wallace-Pender y-in celebrates 72 years

Wallace-Pender Airport hosted its 72nd anniversary y-in on Saturday, drawing steady crowds to the free, family-friendly event from midmorning to early afternoon. Pilots landed at no charge and displayed aircraft along the taxiway, including vintage planes and a local pilot who performed a colored smoke demonstration. Classic cars lined a drive-in area between the airport o ce and taxiway. Visitors enjoyed yard games including cornhole, giant Jenga and mini golf. Two antique tractors were on display, and one pulled children in a barrel train around the grounds.

Insurance costs force delay in Magnolia’s budget adoption

Town o cials delayed scal year adoption as unexpected health insurance expenses force revisions to the budget

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

MAGNOLIA — The Magnolia Board of Commissioners postponed adoption of the 2026 -27 scal year budget during its regular monthly meeting June 9 after higher-than-expected employee health insurance costs created uncertainty in budget projections. The board also rescheduled the public hearing and approved a separate fee schedule for the upcoming scal year.

Despite the delay, o cials said the town’s nances remain stable. Financial reports showed more than $92,000 available for day-to-day operations, while the town’s Capital Management Trust holds nearly $559,000 in reserves.

“The capital management has done well over the last 12 months, so we’re making a little bit there,” said Town Man-

ager Charles Banks. “We’re denitely doing some good progress on things.”

The board approved a budget amendment for the 2022 waterline replacement project, which resulted in a more than $8,000 credit because less paving was required by the Department of Transportation than originally projected. This leaves the project with a contingency balance of approximately $77,000.

O cials also reported progress on the Carlton Street water leak, which is expected to be resolved once the state authorizes the transition to the new waterline.

In addition, the town has contracted for 160 tons of asphalt to repair potholes throughout the community.

The Magnolia Fire Department is preparing to purchase a new re truck for $477,500 through USDA and Four County Electric Membership Corporation loans to replace aging equipment.

The department is also gathering signatures for a re tax referendum that could appear on the November ballot to help support future operational needs as the community continues to grow.

Police Chief Jerry Wood reported 78 speeding cases and 192 business checks during May. He also provided an update on a recent shots- red incident involving a residence and noted that a $5,000 reward is being o ered for information.

Mayor Dawn Ward said renovations to the old library building are nearly complete. The structure has been converted into a community center using insurance proceeds from hurricane damage and investment earnings.

“It is just about done, and it is looking really, really great, and we could not be more excited about it,” said Ward, adding the facility includes a fully remodeled bathroom and updated kitchen.

The new community center will host a Summer Kids Craft Club starting July 9 and will also be available for small private rentals.

Other community announcements included:

• The Summer Meal Program pickup site will operate Monday through Thursday through the end of July.

• The Magnolia Fire Department will host a Wellness Day on June 27 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

COURTESY TOWN OF MAGNOLIA

Jessica L. Melton, right, recently took the oath of o ce as Magnolia’s new town clerk during a special meeting of the Board of Commissioners held in the Gwendolyn B. Vann Conference room.

PHOTOS BY REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

THE CONVERSATION

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

COLUMN | SHANNON HAIR

Education, industry partnerships drive JSCC’s direction

A central focus of the S.P.R.U.N.T. Way is expanding partnerships with business and industry.

AS I BEGAN my journey toward the presidency at James Sprunt Community College, I developed the “S.P.R.U.N.T. Way,” a strategic framework that guides institutional growth while aligning faculty, sta and industry partners around a shared vision for the future. This approach is rooted in innovation, collaboration and a commitment to preparing students for meaningful careers that strengthen our regional workforce.

A central focus of the S.P.R.U.N.T. Way is expanding partnerships with business and industry to enhance academic programs, enrich student learning and build a strong pipeline of skilled graduates. In June, JSCC hosted the Southeastern Education & Economic Development 2026 Kicko Event in Monk Auditorium, welcoming partner institutions and 12 participating students interested in agriculture and advanced manufacturing pathways.

Shortly after, we engaged with T.A. Loving Company to explore workforce development opportunities in construction and skilled trades. Through collaborative discussions and campus tours of our Workforce Development Center and Electrical Systems Lab, we identi ed ways to better align training with industry needs. We also met with S&S Metal Works to discuss

LETTERS

A community’s growing frustration

I read an article recently regarding the proposed Duplin County budget. The writer stated that not one single person gave comments during the public hearing.

The empty seats are certainly worth discussing. However, what many of us have been wondering is whether anyone has noticed all the times people have shown up and used their three minutes to rant into the void. Because I can absolutely assure you that, unless the ones who show up have a few puppet strings to pull, they are largely ignored and punished in the most creative and indirect ways for simply daring to take heart our First Amendment right to petition our government. And that is absolutely disgusting.

Those who have been paying attention know that, over the last few months and years, many of the same people have attended meetings, led records requests, delivered public comments, researched budgets, questioned spending, rallied for employees, disseminated information to the public, and dedicated countless hours to being good citizens … or becoming “properly informed.”

However, I know I’m not alone in recognizing that, here in our community, participation is welcome in theory but largely inconvenient for the two people in charge. Therefore, nothing changes; we are simply left at their whim.

I can assure you that some of our politicians would rather eat a 5-by-7 rug than have anyone bring to light what so many of us know to be true: that they may be perhaps the most corrupt and self-serving individuals around, despite what they attempt to project to the world.

In Duplin County, the few who attempt to point out the smoke and mirrors are made examples of. We are treated as obstacles, agitators, or background noise, and that message reverberates throughout the community. I know rsthand that it is much easier to be a compliant sheep, as very few people dare to even poke the beast despite being eaten alive by it. However, I also know from our nation’s history what happens when the people rally together.

In short, the empty room is a symptom of a much greater problem plaguing communities everywhere. It will take far more people waking up and engaging to free us from the nightmare that our governments have become. At this point, I can only hope that we collectively rediscover some of the revolutionary spirit of the mid-to-late 1700s and harness it to the advantage of the people once again. Until that happens, it’s simply not safe for one person to stand alone.

I’m so glad people are noticing the silence.

Jessica Thomas Kenansville

apprenticeships, scholarships and customized training opportunities within industrial and manufacturing elds.

JSCC also hosted a STEAMA Camp in partnership with Duplin County Schools, introducing middle school students to career pathways in agriculture, business, IT, trades and health sciences. This initiative re ects a long-held vision of creating early exposure opportunities that inspire students to see their future within community college pathways. The camp was made possible through strong collaboration with regional education and workforce partners, including STEM East and NC East Alliance.

In addition, JSCC’s Small Business Center hosted the Pitch It! Duplin Viewing Party, celebrating local entrepreneurs and launching public voting for this year’s competition, supported by Marine Federal Credit Union.

As we move toward fall, our enrollment campaign is underway with classes beginning on Aug. 17. Resources such as Walk-In Registration, Spartan 60 sessions and Commitment Day are designed to remove barriers and support student success. For more information, contact Student Services at 910-275-6360.

Shannon Hair is the president of James Sprunt Community College.

Hillary is right

IN A NEW INTERVIEW this week, Hillary Clinton identi ed the key decision that resulted in President Donald Trump’s election in 2024. It all boiled down, in her view, to a “terrible miscalculation” — former President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s decision to run for reelection. Biden made a “terrible mistake for himself, his legacy and for the country” in deciding to seek reelection at the age of 81. Had he decided to “pass the torch” and the Democratic Party had held a competitive nomination process, “whoever emerged from that contest — whether it was the vice president, or a governor, or a senator or anybody else — would have beaten Donald Trump.”

Or, I would add, they would have had a better chance than Biden did.

Joe and Jill Biden clearly live in a state of denial with respect to Joe’s unpopularity. In some respects, it’s understandable: He wasn’t a bad president and he left the country in better shape than it is now. So why shouldn’t Jill think that even though she was afraid her husband was having a stroke during the debate with Trump, he should stay in the race and if he had, they both seem to believe, he would have beaten Trump. It’s delusional thinking that must have been reinforced by the deep-seated loyalty of those who had been around him for so long. Sadly, the cost of that delusional thinking is being borne around the world.

The Democratic Party is still struggling to gure out what went wrong. The uno cial o cial autopsy report, which the Party commissioned and then disowned, studiously avoided any criticism of Biden’s decision to seek reelection, which cast doubt on the rest of the report.

Of course, the question remains: Was Kamala Harris the right candidate? That’s the one that even Clinton avoided, pointing out that Kamala would have been a stronger candidate if she’d emerged from a competitive process.

Susan Estrich is a lawyer, legal scholar, and political commentator. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com) COLUMN

BE IN TOUCH

But would she have? Emerged from a competitive process, that is. Kamala Harris was the vice president for an unpopular president. She was caught between defending the indefensible and attacking her own administration. She never gured out how to walk that line in the general election and there’s no reason to think it would have been easier in the primaries. The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president. They got to see them both, up close. Harris ran a better campaign than she gets credit for. She did put her best foot forward. She was well- nanced. Experienced strategists surrounded her. She did not use a private email server, as Hillary did. She did not have investigators nipping at her heels, the way Hillary did. It was, considering everything, a smooth run. She just didn’t win. I have yet to hear any explanation for why she’s a stronger candidate today than she was in 2024, and she would need to be a stronger candidate to defeat a Marco Rubio, for instance. Kamala is leading in most, although not all, of the early polls, but that is a matter of name recognition; perhaps more signi cant is the fact that a majority of Democrats, at this stage, favor candidates other than Harris. And Harris has done almost nothing since the election to distinguish herself as the Party’s leader.

Soon enough, we will be hearing more, not only from Gavin Newsom, who is already out there (and being investigated for it), but from Pritzker and Shapiro and Buttigieg, not to mention Jon Osso , Ro Khanna and AOC. The nomination process is awed in many ways, but at least it’s a test, one that Kamala will be forced to pass this time.

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president.

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

Contact a writer or columnist: connect@northstatejournal.com

Serving smiles one doughnut at a time

Members of the Poston Baptist Church youth gathered in a parking lot at the corner of Norwood Street and Southerland Street in Wallace on June 17 to pass out free doughnuts to passersby. The group o ered encouragement and prayers for those who stopped to take advantage of the o er.

Bluebird Farm blends retail, recreation in new visitor experience

From blueberries to custom hats, agritourism operators are lling a niche

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

A SMALL agritourism farm in Pender County is seeing growing interest in a hands- on hat-shaping experience that blends retail with outdoor recreation.

At Bluebird Farm, owner Bailey Hill has introduced private SunBody hat ttings, where customers select a palm-leaf hat and have it hand-shaped during a 30-minute appointment. Since late spring, more than 40 hats have been tted and sold.

Unlike typical retail purchases, the process includes adjusting the crown and brim using water and hand pressure. Customers can also select bands or small decorative

“Bringing hand-shaped hats to the farm feels like sharing a small part of where I came from while creating something new for the community we now call home.”

Bailey Hill

additions.

The hats are made from hand-braided palm leaves and are designed to be reshaped after being crushed or wet.

They also o er UPF 50-plus sun protection and are commonly used for outdoor work and recreation.

Hill said the idea grew out of her background on a hay farm in eastern Oregon, where hats were a regular part of outdoor labor.

“Bringing hand-shaped hats

to the farm feels like sharing a small part of where I came from while creating something new for the community we now call home,” said Hill.

The farm, which spans about 40 acres, operates as a U-pick blueberry and ower operation with additional farm store o erings and recreational activities, including pond shing and seasonal events.

Hill said the hat ttings were added as a way to expand on existing farm activities rather than create a separate retail operation.

Customers typically use the hats for gardening, farming and outdoor leisure activities such as festivals and markets.

SunBody Hats are produced from palm leaf bers sourced through artisans in Guatemala, where the material is braided and assembled by hand before distribution.

Appointments for ttings are scheduled in advance.

“Thankfully, due to the professionalism and quick actions of all involved, there was no threat to the public,” said Warsaw Fire Department o cials in a statement. “We are incredibly proud of every member who answered the call.”

Crews worked to upright the tanker and transfer the chemical to a secondary unit while

Three SunBody palm-leaf hats hang on display at Bluebird Farm. The hats are made from braided palm leaf and are hand-shaped using water to adjust the crown and brim

the roads remained closed. Multiple North Carolina Hazardous Materials Regional Response Teams assisted with the o oading and cleanup process. By early morning on June 16, o cials reported the transfer process had been completed and all state hazmat units had cleared the scene. All a ected roadways were reopened following cleanup and safety checks.

COURTESY SUSAN JOHNSON

Multiple agencies, including the Warsaw Fire Department, North Carolina Emergency Management and regional hazardous materials teams, worked to contain and transfer the material.

COURTESY SUSAN JOHNSON

Emergency crews respond to a hazardous materials incident near the Interstate 40 and N.C. Highway 24 West interchange near Warsaw on June 16 after a tanker truck carrying nitrobenzene overturned on the shoulder of the roadway.

MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Liberty Hall o ers a glimpse into Duplin’s past

The historic home showcases centuries of local history tied to one of North Carolina’s founding families

By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal

WITH THE nation’s 250th birthday upon us, it seems tting to choose a Duplin destination with historic signi cance to visit. Liberty Hall, located in the heart of Kenansville, ts that bill.

Designated as an o cial Southern Historic Landmark in 1972, the current Liberty Hall was not the rst one built by the Kenan family. The rst one was actually built in the late 1730s near Turkey. It was built by Thomas Kenan, who immigrated to Wilmington from Ireland in 1736.

Thomas Kenan had a son, James, who was born in 1740. James Kenan would go on to become an important gure in North Carolina’s history by becoming a Revolutionary War general and a North Carolina state senator. He was the one who named the original family home “Liberty Hall” in honor of the ght for freedom from English rule.

The original Liberty Hall in Turkey burned down before 1800. James Kenan’s son, Thomas, had the current home built in the late 1700s. After being passed along to other members of the Kenan family, the home was donated to Duplin

County in 1964 by Frank Kenan.

It was restored and opened as a museum in 1968. It seems appropriate that Liberty Hall is located in the heart of Kenansville, which has historical signi cance of its own. The area was settled in 1735, 41 years before the Declaration of Independence, as Golden Grove by Irish and German immigrants. The town was named Kenansville in 1811, after James Kenan, and was incorporated in 1852.

Visitors to Liberty Hall today can see lots of history regarding the home and Kenan family in the visitors center next door and then take a tour of the home.

According to Liberty Hall tour guide Teresa Davis, men in the Kenan family fought in battles including the Revolutionary War, the Civil War and World War I. She said the home was updated in 1830.

“It was updated to be Victorian, to keep up with Queen Victoria.”

Local musician turns hardship into inspiration on national stage

Sidney Cavenaugh balances farming life and family challenges

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal

A LOCAL FARMER and Christian music artist has risen to the semi nals in a national Christian artist competition, but that is no surprise if you know him.

For Sidney Cavenaugh, music comes as naturally as breathing.

“I have always loved singing,” Cavenaugh said. “Since I was old enough to talk, I would sing myself to sleep.”

At a Christian youth camp with his home church, Pin Hook Church, Cavenaugh heard a band play and knew immediately that he wanted to learn to play too. At age 14, he took lessons at Earl Jones Music in Beulaville. After high school, he started a band called the Flat Bed Dixie Band and gained traction opening for Ashley Gearing and appearing online on CMT and Blake Shelton’s websites. As adulthood settled in, however, the music was packed away and almost forgotten. But God chose to use his music to help him through times of adversity.

“My son Levi has an epilepsy disorder, and while we were

waiting in the waiting room for him to get an MRI, I kept hearing a song that I had written about seven years prior called ‘Give Me Faith,’” Cavenaugh recalled. “It just kept playing over and over in my mind, and it wouldn’t stop. I began scrolling through Facebook, and You, God’s Music Showcase was being advertised. I decided right then to just see what God would do with it.”

Cavenaugh submitted “Give Me Faith” to the contest and has continued submitting all original songs since.

The You, God’s Music Showcase is an international Chris-

tian singing competition and nonpro t fundraiser that allows artists to compete and win prizes.

More than 400 artists submitted to the competition and were narrowed down through two rounds of popular voting. Now in the semi nal round of the competition, Cavenaugh said the experience has been both humbling and strengthening.

“If you limit God, you will always get the results you were already expecting,” Cavenaugh said. “If I wouldn’t have entered this contest, I would have never known I had the support behind me like I do. It is amazing

Davis said visitors to Liberty Hall are fascinated by some of the antique pieces inside the home, including a desk owned by James Kenan that dates back to 1780. The fold-down desk with storage above contains the original glass. There is one speci c artifact that draws many visitors.

“We have a lot of people who drive through and stop to see Mary Lily Kenan’s wedding dress,” Davis said, adding that her wedding to Henry Flagler, a railroad tycoon, in 1901 at the home was a major social event in the community, even attracting what could be described as an early version of paparazzi at-

how the people in my community have kept up with this contest and supported me since I entered the rst round.”

Currently in eighth position, Cavenaugh stands a chance to move on to the showcase nals if he makes the top ve nalists. Voting for the semi nal round ends June 28. The showcasenals will be a live performance before professional judges at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts in San Antonio.

The showcase winner will receive cash prizes, exposure opportunities and a recording artist package.

Life has not been easy for Cavenaugh. From health issues with his wife and children to losing about $90,000 worth of cattle due to a sudden illness and a lost hog contract, he said he has learned the importance of hope, resilience and perseverance.

“I really think for me personally, and I can say this for my wife, Rebecca, as well, that what we have been through gives us a lot of sympathy for other people,” Cavenaugh said. “Until I entered the contest, I never said much about all that we had been through.

“A lot of people didn’t even know because we hadn’t shared a lot of the details. … I know for myself how hard it is to go to someone and ask for help — especially as a younger business owner when many people see it as an opportunity to bene t themselves by o ering to buy you out. I felt like I was failing, but I was doing everything I could possibly do.

“I will always remember the

tempting to catch a glimpse of the festivities from outside.

Not all the history of Liberty Hall is contained within the home. Even the landscape contains impressive artifacts. A large oak tree in the front yard is believed to date back to the early 1700s.

The Liberty Hall visitor center is open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, with tours of Liberty Hall at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. Admission is $5, cash only. You can see video from Liberty Hall on the Duplin Journal’s YouTube channel by visiting youtube.com/@duplinjournal.

few folks that came to me and said, ‘If there is any way I can help, let me know.’ Humbling experiences leave an imprint on your heart. One thing I always want to do is help people — even if it’s just talking with them or praying for them. Love your neighbor.”

For Cavenaugh, the competition is not about the money — it’s about the exposure. He named the Pin Hook Church Youth Department as his charity of choice, and he is donating his vote winnings to them as well.

“The one thing I want out of this is to have connections with multiple artists,” Cavenaugh said. “I love to sing, but my personal goal is to be able to go up there to show these artists what kind of music I write and hope I can pitch them some songs that they would record.”

Cavenaugh said the No. 1 thing inspiring him to create is “the presence and movement of the Holy Spirit when I am singing,” and he has “seen the Lord’s hand all over this competition” as doors have opened for him to further his music along the way.

He recorded his song “I’m Dreamin’ of the Day” with musicians Mike McAdams, Frank Mills, Rick Murray and JK Laufton, to air on 100.5 Kix FM on June 25 from 8-9 a.m.

Cavenaugh encourages other Christian artists to trust the Lord and go where He leads you.

“Even when the path the Lord is taking you on doesn’t seem like your ideal path, just trust Him,” he said. “He will never leave you.”

PHOTOS BY MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Left, the marriage of Mary Lily Kenan to railroad tycoon

Henry Flagler in 1901 at Liberty Hall was a major social event in Kenansville. Above, Teresa Davis, a tour guide at Liberty Hall in Kenansville, gives three tours a day of the historic Kenan home Tuesday through Saturday.

Sidney Cavenaugh is competing in the You, God’s Music Showcase.

COURTESY SIDNEY CAVENAUGH

COURTESY OF LIBERTY HALL

DUPLIN SPORTS

MR. BASEBALL 2026

Holmes seized moments

Junior Gavin Holmes, who helped hit and pitch ED to an ECC title, slipped past four seniors to become the seventh Panther to capture the award of the spring

RBIs for Gavin Holmes this season.

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — In good times and bad times, Gavin Holmes delivered.

Holmes, an all-state 2A player in ’25, who was snubbed by the 4A coaches this season, is Mr. Baseball.

The junior beat out three seniors to become the seventh East Duplin player to win the top marquee player award in 11 seasons. Pitcher Kyle Kern, who led the state in strikeouts, took it home in ’25.

Holmes has a chance to become just the second player to win it twice. The Panthers’ Stancil Bowles was the top player in ’18 and ’19.

He bested teammate Sawyer Marshburn, North Duplin’s Garris Warren and James Kenan’s Eli Avent to capture the award.

The right-handed hitting

ED’s Gavin Holmes has a chance to become just the second player to win Mr. Baseball. The Panthers’ Stancil Bowles was the top player in ’18 and ’19.

and throwing Holmes led ED in nearly every o ensive category, including RBIs (20), runs (25), OBP (.571), slugging percentage (.667), extra-base hits (10), stolen bases (13) and ERA (2.56).

MR. BASEBALL

2016: Gavin Herring, WRH

2017: Jackson Murray, ED

2018: Stancil Bowles, ED

2019: Stancil Bowles, ED

2020: None (COVID-19 pandemic)

2021: Logan Brown, ED

2022: Nick Cavanaugh, ED

2023: Richard Noble, ND

2024: Kaiden Liu, WRH

2025: Kyle Kern, ED

2026: Gavin Holmes, ED

Holmes had ve hits and six runs in his nal ve games, including three hits in three trips in a 3-2 season-ending loss to Roanoke Rapids

See HOLMES, page B4

HEART OF A CHAMPION 2026

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR 2026

The ED catcher hit .479 and was the Panthers’ most sure-handed defensive player

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Could one of the best defensive players in the county be the best o ensive player in Duplin County?

It’s quite possible if you consider the season of East Duplin’s Sawyer Marshburn, who was the ECC’s Player of the Year.

While teammate Gavin Holmes nipped him and North Duplin’s Garris Warren as top player in Duplin, Marshburn’s two-way contributions couldn’t be overlooked.

He is the O ensive Player of the Year.

The Panthers senior led the county in hits with 34 and his team in elding percentage (.986). He made three errors in 138 chances, which was 65 more than rst baseman Luke Hall had when he had ve miscues.

That skill and his ability to keep together ED’s three pitchers during a game helped the Panthers both recover from losing Kyle Kern, Mr. Baseball

Rebels’ all-state basher Warren thrived in spotlight

ND’s Garris Warren went from a .300 to .600 hitter because of his drive to compete

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

CALYPSO — Garris Warren wants to be in the lineup every day and in a situation to win a game, whether he’s looking to pounce on a 3-2 count with the bases loaded the nal inning or if he’s on the mound ready to re a nal pitch.

“He’s the ultimate competitor,” said North Duplin baseball coach Brad Rhodes. “He just wants to compete, and he put us in a position to win games.” Warren, who led Duplin in hitting (.600), scored 25 times and had 15 RBIs, is the Duplin Journal’s Heart of a Champion recipient.

“He gives you everything he has and is always giving,” Rhodes said. “He and Vance (Carter) get our eld ready, and they do it for the junior high eld as well.

“Garris always does things

the right way and he had an awesome o ensive season. Yet anytime he talks about it, it’s always to credit a teammate, coach or parent.”

Warren, who was named an all-state player in 2A by the North Carolina Baseball Coaches Association, beat out a ock of players to win the award as his heart was clearly baseball focused.

He hit safely in all but three games for ND (10-7, 8-4), which won seven of its nal eight

See WARREN, page B4

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

PHOTOS BY EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

ED’s Sawyer Marshburn, a three-year starter, was the MVP of the ECC.

Gavin Holmes

Garris Warren put the Rebels baseball team on his back last spring.

ATHLETE

OF THE WEEK SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE

ED (14- 6, 10 - 0)

ND (10 -7, 8-4) HCA (17-7) WRH (10 -11, 5 -7) JK (10 - 6, 5 -7)

Garris Warren (ND)

Luke Jackson

Wallace-Rose Hill, baseball

Luke Jackson was among the most improved players in Duplin County last spring.

The Wallace-Rose Hill junior raised his batting average from .216 (11 of 51) in 2025 to .413 (21 of 63). He was also tops on his team in RBIs (21), slugging percentage (.500) and OPS (.597), and he was second in runs (16) and on-base percentage (.471).

He nished the season by going 12 of 22 (.545) with ve RBIs, which included a 3-for-5 night against James Kenan to send the Bulldogs to a 10-9 rivalry win after losing the rst game of the regular season series.

Also in the mix were his double, single and two RBIs that also led to a 10-9 win over Louisburg in the rst round of the 3A playo s.

He had eight multihit games as WRH (10-11) won three of its last four games before falling to No. 1-seed Ayden-Grifton (23-3) in the playo s.

The right-handed-throwing Jackson was 4-2 on the mound in eight starts with one save.

MARSHBURN from page B1 in 2025 who led the state in strikeouts, and win without a legitimate ace.

But Marshburn was a terror on pitchers. The senior was hitless in his rst two games and a season-ending loss to Roanoke Rapids, but he hit safely in 17 games in between.

He punched seven doubles but walked just four times and struck out seven times as Marshburn went to the plate to hit the ball to earn a hefty .512 on-base percentage.

Marshburn, who hit .308 as a junior, will play baseball at Lenoir Community College next season. He nished with a .351 mark as a three-year starter behind the plate.

He stepped into big shoes when replacing backstop Chase Pierce (.417), who along with southpaw pitcher Nick Cavanaugh (.381, 12-0 on the hill) led ED to its historic season in 2022. And what really came to the surface this spring was how Marshburn (.479) played to a level that was on par with Pierce (zero errors in 251 chances). Replacing his all-around consistency and leadership skills will be East Duplin’s biggest challenge in 2026.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Sawyer

facing challenges o diamond

ED’s Brandon Thigpen’s biggest concern in life is not about baseball, it’s seeing his preterm newborn, Fielding, grow

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Brandon

Thigpen has been the perfect baseball coach for East Duplin since taking over the program in 2017.

The Panthers have gone 135-66 and last spring captured their second ECC title under the former Panthers and Methodist University diamond star.

Thigpen’s love of baseball is as big as the blue skies above the eld and program he’s cultivated.

Enter life to present another challenge, one that involves

less coaching for now and far too many diagrams than in his playbook.

Thigpen, who captures his seventh Coach of the Year award, was heavily involved in the Bodyarmor All-State Games and as the manager of Beulaville Post 511, can only watch as his newborn boy, Fielding Beasley, gets ready to enter the game of life.

Fielding was born to Thigpen’s wife, Mary Susan, June 2. Yet Fielding needs a mix of coaching from above and modern medical procedures before his old ball coach dad can hit him ground balls.

Fielding came eight weeks early and weighed 1 pound, 1.8 ounces.

Wins, heartbreaking losses and anything baseball fade away. For now, it’s just a game people play.

He’ll reminisce about his ECC-winning Panthers further down the road.

Thigpen was the top Duplin coach last season, in 2021 and 2022, and from 2017 through 2019. His streak was halted by COVID-19 in 2020, ND’s Colton Chrisman in ’23 and WRH’s Logan Kissner the following season. ED has struggled in conference play twice under Thigpen, his rst season in 2017

(4-6) and in 2023 (5-7). The Panthers climbed to 8-4 in ’18 and 9-3 in ’23. He also led the Panthers to a school-record 23-1 in ’22, the last time ED won the ECC title before going 10-0 in loop play last spring.

Thigpen, who banged his way to 46 hits in 43 games in 2013 for Division II Methodist, told school o cials there his “pregame ritual is to pray” and that he “can’t live without his family and friends.”

COACH OF THE YEAR

2016: JP Price, WRH

2017: Brandon Thigpen, ED

2018: Brandon Thigpen, ED

2019: Brandon Thigpen, ED

2020: None (COVID-19 pandemic)

2021: Brandon Thigpen, ED

2022: Brandon Thigpen, ED

2023: Colton Chrisman, ND

2024: Logan Kissner, WRH

2025: Brandon Thigpen, ED

2026: Brandon Thigpen, ED

Surrounded and connected to a caring community, he’s still walking the walk and talking the talk of his words.

WRH baseball coach Logan Kissner went through a similar situation recently when his wife had two miscarriages before having twin boys.

“While my situation is di erent, it becomes real and it denitely brings you closer to God,” Kissner said. “You nd out there are a lot of people there to put their arms around you.”

JK’s Eli Avent, ED’s Jack Tuck, Sawyer Marshburn and Gavin Holmes, and ND’s Garris Warren garnered repeat all-county honors

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

WALLACE — North Duplin

freshman Noah Price and East Duplin freshman Brayden Jones each had sensational debut seasons to earn rst-team accolades on the all-Duplin County baseball team.

Yet the bulk of this spring’s best on the diamond were seniors, as six made the list of 13, which included repeat performers Jack Tuck and Sawyer Marshburn of East Duplin, Garris Warren of North Duplin and Eli Avent of James Kenan.

ED’s other returnee is Gavin Holmes, who is Mr. Baseball. Marshburn was named O ensive Player of the Year and Warren was the Heart of a Champion recipient. Panthers coach Brandon Thigpen is Coach of the Year for the seventh time.

The ECC champion Panthers (14-6) chalked up six rst-team selections, ND (10-7) three, while WRH (10-11) and JK (6 -10) each had two representatives.

Stories of the marquee win-

ners are in today’s newspaper. Here’s a capsule look at the rst team.

Eli Avent, JK, Sr., IF/OF Avent is one of the best baseball players at JK in at least a decade. He followed up ’25 with a .500 performance that included nine doubles, two triples, 23 stolen bases and 15 RBIs.

Jack Tuck, ED, Sr., SS

Tuck went from good (.339) to top shelf his senior season, whacking at a .429 clip, the eighth-best mark in the county. He scored 21 runs, drove in 17, walked 12 times and had a .500 on-base-percentage.

Luke Jackson, WRH, Jr., 1B

Jackson came into his own this season, hitting .413 with six doubles, a triple, 21 RBIs and a 4-3 record on the mound for WRH (10-11). He drove in two runs in a 10-9 rst-round playo win over Louisburg. It was the Bulldogs’ rst home playo win in more than 15 years.

Jackson drove in two runs in a rst-round playo game 10-9 win over Louisburg. It was the Bulldogs’ rst home playo win in a decade. He also had three hits, two RBIs and a pair of runs in a late season win over JK.

Cal Avent, JK, Sr., P/1B

Avent hit .491 with seven doubles and 21 RBIs to join his twin sibling on another all-county team. Both were rst-team football players last fall. Eli played QB, while Cal was a two-way lineman who rarely missed a snap.

Noah Price, ND, So., P/IF

Price (.528) was second in Duplin in hitting to teammate Warren, who is a senior. Price is a sophomore who could be in line to be ND’s brightest star next season.

His 23 singles, six doubles and 13 walks allowed him to score 25 times and drive in 15.

JP Murphy, ED, Sr., CF/P

Murphy is a player who gives it his all every game and was a big player in big situations hitting (.250, 18 walks, 11 RBIs), pitching (4-0 in a team-high 43 innings) or in center eld where he had great range and a strong arm.

And while he isn’t the Panthers’ MVP, he’s a valuable piece for a team that won an ECC title.

Hayden Lovette, WRH, Sr., P/IF

Lovette had a memorablenal season and was perhaps the most improved player in Duplin. He hit .352 and went 3-2 with 40 strikeouts in 241⁄3 innings on the hill.

Colton Holmes, ED, Sr., 2B

Much like Murphy, Holmes found ways to produce without a pumped-up average (.261), using 19 walks to score 15 runs and 12 hits to drive in 15 runs.

Cole Grady, ND, So., IF/P

Grady didn’t get a hit in ND’s opener or its 2-1 loss to end its season against Voyager in the second round of the 2A playo s.

In between he had a 15-game hitting streak that pumped his average to .418, ninth-best in

the county. He scored 20 times and was second for ND in RBIs (16) and rst in stolen bases (15).

Brayden Jones, ED, Fr., P

The ECC’s Pitcher of the Year went 5-2 with a 2.92 ERA, though he’s hardly tapped into his full potential.

That will come in the next two seasons when he has fewer walks (26) and more strikeouts (44) than he did in his debut, which was 36 innings via nine appearances. In the future, look for him to prove he’s an all-around player and better than .236 with nine RBIs. Jones and sophomore teammate and second-team selection Silas Jarman will be on the hill a lot in the next two seasons.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL Brandon Thigpen has been a player, assistant or head coach at ED for nearly two decades.

PHOTOS BY EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Clockwise from left, ND’s Noah Price can hit and run the bases; Eli Avent has hit over .500 the past two seasons for JK; ED’s Jack Tuck was a rst-team ECC player who raised his batting average to .429.

Beulaville Post 511 pitchers slam the door on Post 265

Post 511 garnered a pair of Area 2 wins

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

BEULAVILLE — Holding an American Legion baseball team to two runs meant a victory for Beulaville Post 151 early last week.

Scoring twice left the shadow of a heartbreak during a one-run loss and in between Beulaville (4-4) posted a mercy-rule victory.

Bladen Barnett ripped three hits and drove in a run,

and Cole Jarman added a hit and two walks to score twice while knocking in two runs during a 6-2 win over Jacksonville Post 265. Henry Bass added two hits as four pitchers allowed just three hits. Post 511 had 12. Post 265 got a run in the rst and another in the sixth as Gavin Holmes, Christian Wooten, Cole Jarman and Jaxon Smith combined for 14 strikeouts.

Eli Avent, Shawn Marshburn and Carson Tew combined for seven hits during a 10-0 conquest of Castle Hayne Post 545. Avent, a James Kenan grad,

laced two hits, scored twice and knocked in two.

Tew (Midway) added three hits, while Sawyer Marshburn (East Duplin) chipped in for a pair.

Beulaville could have used more than just contributions from Bass and Jarman in a 3-2 setback. Bass had two hits and drove in a run, and Jarman added an RBI at-bat that plated Barnett.

Post 511 is 2-1 in Area 2 games and will face fellow division foes Wilmington Post 10’s two squads this week and has a rematch with Post 265 on June 25.

all-state

WARREN from page B1

Carolina Conference games, but landed in fourth place because of tough losses to Hobbton (3-1 and 5-4) and East Columbus (14-13 in eight innings).

Warren ripped 22 singles and 10 doubles and walked 10 times in 17 games.

“And struck out just three times in 68 at-bats,” said Rhodes. “We wouldn’t have had the success we had this year without him.”

Warren, one of ve returnees on the all-Duplin rst team, hit .352 over the course of his fouryear career.

He matched Voyager Academy’s Cameron Copley, 2A Pitcher of the Year, pitch for pitch during a 2-1 second-round playo loss. Both gave up two hits and an earned run.

Pursuant

noti ed of the intended sale.

Vehicle Description: 2021 Honda Accord VIN: 1HGCV1F10MA081927

Location of Vehicle: Johnny’s Towing and Recovery 717 NW Railroad Street Wallace, NC 28466 Date of Sale: July 22, 2026 at 10am

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY FILE NO. 26E000229-300 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having quali ed as Administrator CTA of the estate of Malachi McNeal Southerland, Sr., deceased, late of Magnolia, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the said decedent to present them to the undersigned on or before the 25th day of September, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment. This the 25 day of June, 2026. Malachi M. Southerland, Jr. 13010 Chesdin Landing Drive Chester eld, VA 23838

HOLMES from page B1

and two hits, and an RBl, two hits and one earned run in 4.1 frames when ED clinched the ECC by beating South Lenoir 7-6. He hit .460 and had 29 hits. Marshburn (.479) belted a county-high 34 base knocks, while Warren (.600) had 33. Holmes went 3-2 on the mound, whi ng 22 and walking 10 in 12 appearances covering 27 innings, as ED head coach used him, JP Murphy (4-0) and Brayden Jones (5-

2), both rst-team all-county selections, and Silas Jarman (2 -2) to pitch up to four innings at a time. That and timely hitting helped ED go 14-6, which included four straight losses during the Easter break. It humbled and red up Holmes, who took it out on ECC foes Clinton (three hits, four RBIs), Pender (three hits, four runs), Trask (three hits, ve runs) and Southwest Onslow (four hits and three RBIs) as the Panthers swept their way to a 10-0 loop mark.

PUBLIC HEARING

The Duplin County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, July 13, 2026 in the Duplin County Administrative Building, Commissioners Meeting Room located at 224 Seminary St, Kenansville, NC to consider public input on the naming of the following private roads:

Location Proposed Name 903 3500 Peterson Ln 1413 100 Kima Dr 1704 247 Timothy Smith Dr

Only those roads listed will be considered at this time.

Duplin County Board of Commissioners Jaime Carr, Clerk to the Board

PUBLIC HEARING

TOWN OF WALLACE TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

July 9, 2026, after 6:00 PM

NOTICE IS HEARBY GIVEN that the Town Council of the Town of Wallace has called for a Public Hearing at the Wallace Women’s Club, located at 216 N. East Railroad Street, Wallace, NC 28466, on Thursday, July 9, 2026, after 6:00 PM for the following:

The applicant is seeking to rezone 8.31 acres, Pin 3305 1046 5515 located o Old Wilmington Road, from R6-MH (residential, minimum lot size 6,000 sq. ft.mobile homes allowed); RA-20 (residential, minimum lot size 20,000 sq.ft. Persons wishing to speak on the issues are invited to attend and be heard at the scheduled public hearing.

Persons having questions may contact Rod Fritz, Planning Director at (910) 285-4136 or rfritz@wallacenc.gov.

NOTICE

ESTATE OF EDGAR TYLER, DECEASED FILE No. 00E000193-300 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Personal Representative of the Estate of Edgar Tyler, deceased, late of Duplin County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, rms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before September 25, 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.

Personal Representative: Vivian C. Tyler 308 Georgia Drive Raeford, North Carolina 28376 910-580-2531

Publication Dates: June 25, 2026 July 2, 2026 July 9, 2026 July 16, 2026

PUBLIC HEARING

TOWN OF WALLACE TOWN COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

JULY 9, 2026, after 6:00 PM

NOTICE IS HEARBY GIVEN that the Town Council of theTown of Wallace has called for a QuasiJudicial Public Hearing on a Special Use Permit Application at the Wallace Women’s Club, located at 216 N. East Railroad Street, Wallace, NC 28466, on Thursday, July 9, 2026, after 6:00 PM for the following:

The applicant is seeking to construct multi-family apartments on SE Railroad Street; zoned R-6 (residential, minimum lot size 6,000 sq.ft. Persons wishing to speak on the issues are invited to attend and be heard at the scheduled public hearing.

Persons having questions may contact Rod Fritz, Planning Director at (910) 285-4136 or rfritz@wallacenc.gov.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL Gavin Holmes hit and pitched ED to an ECC title and beat out three seniors to capture Mr. Baseball.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Midway graduate and

2A shortstop Carson Tew steals second during a Post 511 win.

Garris Warren struck out only three times in 68 at-bats.

obituaries

Michael Timothy Stroup

Sept. 21, 1967 – June 16, 2026

Memorial Service

Saturday, June 27, 2026

12:00 PM

Beulaville Baptist Church

601 E. Main St., Beulaville, NC

A luncheon with visitation with the family will follow the service at the church’s Family Life Center for all attendees.

Beulaville, NC

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Michael Timothy Stroup, a loving husband, father, grandfather, and friend, on June 16, 2026.

For 30 years, Mike proudly served as a re ghter/ engineer with the City of Charlotte, dedicating his life to helping others and making his community a better place.

Whether on the job or in everyday life, he was always willing to lend a hand and support those around him.

He loved spending time outdoors and could often be found enjoying nature, working with his hands, or searching for his next antique treasure. A talented cabinetmaker, he took great pride in creating beautiful pieces that would be enjoyed for generations. His craftsmanship re ected the patience, care, and attention he brought to everything he did.

More than anything, Mike loved his family. He was a devoted husband, a caring father, and a proud grandfather who treasured every moment spent with those he loved. His faith in the Lord was evident in the way he lived his life. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, faith, and hard work that will continue to live on through his family and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Mike is preceded in death by his father, Frank Stroup. He is survived by his wife, Linda Godley Stroup of Beulaville; three daughters, Rachel Stroup Myers and husband Jason of New Bern, Megan Stroup Sholar and husband Seth of Beulaville, Sarah Marie Stroup of Swansboro; mother, Sarah Stroup; brothers, Bobby Stroup, David Stroup and wife Pam, Paul Stroup, Jamie Stroup; and seven grandchildren, Justin Myers and wife Liz, Jake Myers, Josh Myers, Jameson Myers, Laney Sholar, Evie Sholar and Beck Sholar.

Mike’s deep love for the next generation was clear to everyone, as he constantly commended God’s goodness to all who crossed his path (Psalm 145:4).

To honor his incredible legacy, the family requests that memorial donations be directed to Beulaville Baptist Church’s Youth Activities Fund, PO Box 394, Beulaville, NC 28518, helping the student ministry continue to grow mature disciples who in turn make future disciples.

Ivan Dale Mullen

April 5, 1947 – June 16, 2026

Ivan Dale Mullen was a truly special and remarkable man who made a lasting impression on all those who knew him. After 79 years, his earthly life ended on June 16, 2026, but the impact of his life will live on in the hearts of family and friends.

He was born April 5, 1947, in Curtis, Nebraska, the son of William E. Mullen and Evelyn Flock Mullen. In addition to his parents, Ivan was preceded in death by his sisters, Donna Mullen, Ina Mullen, Linda Ryberg, and Anitha MillerHalverson; brother, Virgil Mullen; and his number one canine companion, Rosie.

Ivan is survived by his beloved wife of 44 years, Olga S. Mullen; sons, Mark En eld (Brenda) and Andrew En eld (Keri); grandchildren, Alexis En eld and Nicolas En eld; sisters, Connie Neill (Tim) and Diana Curry; many nieces, nephews and friends.

In his younger years, Ivan proudly served in the US Army.

Ivan Mullen was a generous man, not just monetarily, but with his kindness, appreciation, and love - Love for family, friends, employees, and love for his country. Much love and pride for his two sons, Andy and Mark; his grandson, Nic; his granddaughter, Alexis (the princess) and let’s not forget “Rosie” his beloved little dog. Special love for his daughterin-law, Keri for spoiling him by cooking his favorite meals when Ivan and Olga visited in Louisiana and when they visited us. Always had enough to freeze for later. Love to daughter-in-law, Brenda, for introducing us to Pastor Jerome and taking us to his church, The Bridge of Life, where Ivan accepted Jesus as his Lord and Savior and was born again.

My friends became Ivan’s friends along with their spouses, forming a special bond of mutual friendship, respect, admiration, and love, with surprise birthday celebrations thrown in.

Ivan became group president with Fleming Food Company. Under his leadership the four divisions he managed were in Lafeyette, LA, Dothan, AL, Miami, FL, and Warsaw, NC. He led with respect, appreciation and care for all of his employees. They in turn came to love and respect him and to this day remember him well. The words respect, appreciation and love came up in every aspect of his life and to everyone who crossed his path and none more so than for his wife Olga of 44 years. The words “Love of My Life” is so spot on when it comes to my Ivan. A most generous, funny, and best sense of humor guy. A once-in-a-lifetime connection of deep trust and love to weather hardships that come and a willingness to work through them together. And more so when Ivan was diagnosed with ALS ve years ago and with bone cancer in February of this year. Holding his hand and kissing him, telling him he was so loved, was a gift for me as he passed. Ivan was “The Love of My Life”, Olga.

Celebration of Life will be 10:00 a.m. on Friday, June 26, 2026 at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home Wilmington Chapel, 315 Willow Woods Drive, Wilmington, NC 28409. Pastor Jerome Bullard will conduct the service. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service. In lieu of owers, the family requests that you consider a memorial gift to ALS.org in memory and honor of Ivan.

Terry Vernon Barnhart

Oct. 30, 1961 – June 18, 2026

Terry Vernon Barnhart, 64, born on October 30, 1961, in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2026, in Wallace, North Carolina, after bravely ghting a long and di cult battle with cancer.

Terry was predeceased by the love of his life and wife of 46 years, Teresa Barnhart, who passed away on May 20, 2026, and by his father, Vernon Barnhart.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army.

Terry is survived by his devoted son, Patrick Barnhart of Wallace, NC, and grandchildren, Chloe Barnhart, Connor Barnhart, and Benjamin Barnhart, who brought immense pride and joy to his days. Terry’s guidance, warmth, and steady encouragement will remain with them always as treasured memories.

Terry’s life was de ned by quiet strength, kindness, and devotion to those he loved. Throughout his years, he touched the lives of many with his unwavering support and gentle presence. Terry’s journey began in Franklin County, where his early years were shaped by family, community, and a strong sense of responsibility that would stay with him throughout his life. Those who knew Terry will recall a man of integrity and compassion, someone who carried through life’s challenges with dignity and resilience. Though the battle he faced in his nal years was di cult, Terry met it with courage and grace, never allowing pain to overshadow his love for family.

The legacy of Terry Vernon Barnhart will endure in the hearts of those who were fortunate to share in his journey. His spirit will live on in the loving bonds he nurtured and the memories held close by his loved ones.

Funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Monday, June 22, 2026, at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Wallace Chapel with Reverend Buster Price o ciating.

Committal service will be held with military honors immediately following the funeral service at Riverview Memorial Park in Watha.

The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Monday, one hour prior to the funeral service at QuinnMcGowen Funeral Home.

Evelyn Wagner

Aug. 20, 1936 – June 18, 2026

Evelyn Henderson Wagner, 89, passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at her home. A graveside service will be held Monday, June 22, 2026, at 11 a.m. at Henderson Cemetery at 5670 N.C. 50 HIghway South in Wallace, NC. Visitation will take place at the cemetery. She is survived by sons Keith Wagner and Kevin Wagner, both of Pin Hook, NC; grandchildren Casey Wagner (Morgan) of Richlands, NC, and Cody Boyette (Rachel) of Pin Hook, NC; and great-grandchildren Gabriel Wagner, Aria Wagner and Abigail Boyette

Joyce Robinson

Oct. 26, 1943 – June 20, 2026

Joyce Marie Carter Barbee Robinson, 82, passed away on Saturday, June 20, 2026. A funeral service will be Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 12:30 p.m., and visitation will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Community Funeral Home in Beulaville, NC. Interment will be at Onslow Memorial Park in Jacksonville, NC. Joyce was born Oct. 26, 1943, in Onslow County, NC, and was preceded in death by husband Russell Price Robinson; son Kevin Grayson Barbee; parents Edward Mike Carter and Myrtle Swinson Carter; and brother Charles Edward Carter. She is survived by son Kilby Grayson Barbee Jr. (Mary) of Richlands, NC; daughter-in-law Lisa Barbee of Richlands, NC; stepson Claude Robinson (Lenalee) of Georgia; stepdaughter Karen Rhodes (Dennis) of Richlands, NC; sisters Patricia Williams of Seven Springs, NC, and Carol Cole (Terry) of Potters Hill, NC; special friend Eddie Humphries of Beulaville, NC; grandchildren Isaiah Barbee, Kasey Barbee Foy, Kimberly Barbee (Nathan) and Harleigh Broome (JD), all of Richlands, NC; greatgrandchildren Grayson Barbee, Isaac Barbee and KaraBeth Barbee, all of Richlands, and Gracelyn Foy, Morgan Foy and Andrew Foy, all of Jacksonville; step-grandchildren Leah Quinn (Chris) and Jana Hubel (Michael) of Richlands, Tyler Watkins (Shyann) of North Dakota, Lori Edens (Gri th) of Texas, and Claude Robinson Jr. and Mariah Robinson, both Georgia; stepgreat-grandchildren Ayden Quinn, Raegan Quinn, Abel Dougherty, Cameron Hubel, Braden Hubel and Kaylin Hubel, all of Richlands, Calliope Wright of Texas; stepgreat-great-grandchild Carmen Hubel of Richlands. Special Thanks to Elene Onslow County Senior Services, caregivers Rome Ames and Allison Sanderson; and Ti any, Tracy, Kalie, Megan, Nigeria and Annie at Gentiva Hospice. Ms. Robinson was also loved by many nieces, nephews, friends, and all that who knew her.

Russell Mitchell

Nov. 30, 1939 – June 17, 2026

Goldsboro- Mr. Russell Lee Mitchell, a remarkable man of strength and resilience, passed away on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the age of 86 at UNC Health Wayne in Goldsboro, North Carolina, The Celebration of Life will be Friday, June 26,2026 at 12:00 PM, at Greenleaf Christian Church Disciples of Christ, 2110 N. William Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530. There will be a church viewing from 11:00-11:50 AM. He will be laid to rest at Wayne Memorial Park South, 2925 US Hwy 117 S., Dudley, NC 28333. We extend our deepest condolences to the family, and please continue to keep the family in your prayers during their time of bereavement.

Courtney Holmes

Sept. 18, 1987 –June 22, 2026

Courtney Holmes, 38, passed away on Monday, June 22, 2026. A funeral service will be held Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at 6 p.m. at Community Funeral Home in Beulaville, NC. Visitation will follow the service. Interment will be private. She is survived by husband J.W. Holmes of Pink Hill, NC; parents Gary Harvell of Stedman, NC, and Kimberly Harvell of Pink Hill, NC; son Harlan Holmes of Pink Hill, NC; and brother Garett Harvell (Afton). In lieu of owers, donations may be made to Community Funeral Home, P.O. Box 715, Beulaville, NC 28518.

Brigitte “Brie” Monique Smith

Dec. 25, 1961 – June 17, 2026

Goldsboro- Ms. Brigitte “Brie” Monique Smith, 64, went to be with the Lord on June 17, 2026. Known for her strong faith and equally strong family ties and friendships, she welcomed those around her as extended family members.

Born in France to John and Mary Smith, she and her family traveled extensively while her father was in the military. After moving to Goldsboro, NC, Brie graduated from Eastern Wayne High School and attended East Carolina University Art School. Brie went on to do creative work for a company in Goldsboro and the Goldsboro News Argus. She transitioned to working at Wayne Community College, where her love for people and her sense of humor put students at ease as they prepared for GED testing. As aunt to her two nieces and one nephew and to the children of countless neighbors and friends, she brought joy through planning activities, parties, small gifts, and handmade, personalized cards. She lovingly cared for her parents, and most recently her mother.

Brie loved cooking, tutoring adults at Literacy Connections, thrifting handbags, weaving, visiting the beach, yard work, watching travel shows, shopping arts and crafts stores, and keeping her family and friends uplifted with prayers and her wonderful sense of humor. She will truly be missed. There will be no formal services.

Wanda Gail Chasten Zanders

Oct. 29, 1960 – June 15, 2026

Mrs. Wanda Gail Chasten Zanders, age 65, of Leland, NC, a native of Duplin County, passed away on Monday, June 15, 2026.

A visitation of family and friends will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Rose Hill Funeral Home in Rose Hill, NC, from 6:00 to 7:00 pm. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at New Christian Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, 2283 NC 11 Hwy, in Rose Hill, NC, at 11:00 am. Burial will follow at the church cemetery.

Left to cherish her precious memories are her two children: Marcus D. Batts (Lorena) of New Market, MD and Tocarra Barnes of Raleigh, NC; three brothers: Sherman Lee Chasten of Rose Hill, NC, Kelvin Chasten (Ann) of Kenansville, NC and Travis Chasten (Bonita) of Raleigh, NC; one sister, Irish Pickett (George) of Rose Hill, NC; three grandchildren: Ryan Batts, Maxwell Barnes and Gisella Barnes; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and friends that will miss her dearly.

Billie Katherine “Kathy” Cherry

March 4, 1947 –June 20, 2026

Billie Katherine “Kathy” Cherry, 79, of Burgaw, NC, passed away peacefully on Saturday, June 20, 2026, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born March 4, 1947, in Wilmington, NC, and spent her life as a mother and grandmother and as a public and academic librarian. She was known for her strong spirit and dedication to her faith in Christ.

Kathy is survived by her children, Gina L. Williams of Wilmington, Steven Kent Snyder and his wife Margaret of Luttrell, TN, Ashley “Ash” Morris Cherry and wife Carla of Dunn, NC, and Amy Melissa Cherry Millis of Burgaw, NC; siblings, Randall Perry Lennon and his wife Vickie of Red Springs, NC, Kim Lennon Hartman of Durham, NC, Kelly L. Lennon of Whiteville, NC, and Jan Alison Miller and husband, David of Mebane, NC; eight grandchildren; and two great grandchildren.

The graveside funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at Riverview Memorial Park, 9332 US Hwy 117, Willard/Watha, NC, with Pastor Adam Kord conducting the service. The family will receive friends at the cemetery following the service.

Edward Lee Dahms Jr.

Oct. 28, 1964 – June 19, 2026

Edward Lee Dahms Jr., 61, passed away at home in Castle Hayne, NC, on Friday, June 19, 2026, after a cancer diagnosis ten months earlier.

He was born October 28, 1964, at St. Therese Hospital in Waukegan, Illinois, and graduated from Zion Benton High School in 1982. Throughout his life, Ed excelled in many elds and accomplished many milestones. He became an over the road truck driver earning many safety awards. Driving over a million miles across the USA and Canada as a driver, recruiter, and senior road trainer with Melton Truck Lines.

Ed is survived by his wife of 36 years, Alanna Jean Nix Dahms of Castle Hayne, NC; son, Robert E. Dahms of Gibsonville, NC; mother, Myra E. Whitlow and her husband, Phillip of Beach Park, IL; brother, Michael Dahms (Stacey) of McHenry, IL; sister, Myra Stittgen (Craig) of Winthrop Harbor, IL; sister-in-law, Catherine Nix Goodnature (George) of Libertyville, IL; along with many beloved nieces and nephews. Edward is preceded in death by his father, Edward Lee Dahms, Sr.; and his son, Andrew M. Dahms.

A private gathering will be held in North Carolina, and a Celebration of Life in Illinois is planned for the fall.

Bobby Rue Houston

July 15, 1944 – June 16, 2026

Bobby Rue Houston, age 81, passed away Tuesday, June 16, 2026. Bobby was born on July 15, 1944, in Duplin County. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Ransom and Louvene Sumner Houston, as well as his sister, Dollie Houston Parker. Bobby is survived by his wife, Judy Blizzard Houston; sons, Trevor Houston and wife Michele of Kenansville and Tracy Houston of Pink Hill; grandchildren, Courtney Houston of Wilmington and Megan Houston Palochak and husband Tyler of Greenville; niece, Shonda Parker Wenner and husband Jeremy of Gaston.

A funeral service will be held Friday, June 19, 2026, at 7 p.m. followed by visitation at Serenity Funeral Home in Beulaville.

A graveside service is Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Oak Ridge Memorial Park in Pink Hill, NC. Donations to the Free Will Baptist Children’s Home, PO Box 249, Middlesex, NC 27557-0249 are encouraged.

Southern Ground Manor hosts rst farmers market

Southern Ground Manor hosted its inaugural farmers market last week, drawing steady crowds to sample and purchase goods from local vendors. Visitors received passport cards at entry and earned chances at prizes by visiting participating booths. Vendors o ered a wide variety of products, including fresh produce, baked goods, owers, plants, jewelry, teas and handmade items. A food truck served wood- red barbecue, while children enjoyed an in atable bounce house. Guests also toured the bridal suite and gathered throughout the property for music, food and conversation.

PHOTOS BY REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

COURTESY MEGAN ROSE PHOTOGRAPHY

Stanly NewS Journal

WHAT’S HAPPENING

8 convicted of terrorism charges in Texas immigration center shooting sentenced to decades in prison

Fort Worth, Texas

A demonstrator who shot and wounded a police o cer during a protest outside a Texas immigration center July 4, 2025, has been sentenced to 100 years in federal prison.

Other protesters also accused of having links to antifa were sentenced Tuesday to multiple decades in federal prison. A federal jury in March found the eight defendants guilty of providing material support to terrorists and other charges.

Prosecutors say the eight took part in a demonstration at the Prairieland Detention Center last July 4 in which a police o cer was shot and wounded. The defendants deny any a liation with the far-left anti-fascist organization.

Trump administration announces $17.5 billion in loans for 10 new large nuclear reactors

The Trump administration is providing $17.5 billion to speed the development of 10 new large nuclear reactors to meet the skyrocketing power demand from massive data centers. The Energy Department announced the loans Tuesday. Energy Secretary Chris Wright cited “tremendous interest” among developers of data centers, called hyperscalers, who would buy the power, as well as utilities and energy companies. The department said seven utilities and energy companies signed letters of intent that identi ed sites. It plans to pick ve, each hosting two reactors. The nancing would be used to purchase nuclear components with long lead times.

Authorities arrest 2 more suspects in planned attack on White House UFC show

Authorities have arrested two more people in Missouri and Washington state in connection with a planned attack targeting the UFC event at the White House earlier this month. Court documents led Monday say one of the suspects was arrested Friday and charged with conspiracy to commit murder. Another was arrested Sunday. Federal o cials say ve others are also facing charges. Federal o cials say the planned attack was disrupted days before the June 14 event.

Badin receives state grant for future community center

State funding will help convert the historic hospital building

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

BADIN — The town of Badin is set to receive nearly $250,000 in state grant funding for a renovation project that will turn a former hospital building into a community meeting and event space. According to an announcement from the North Carolina Department of Commerce last Thursday, Badin has been awarded a $241,700 Rural Downtown Economic Develop-

Albemarle selects new Parks and Recreation director

Rob Hanlen will begin his new role in July

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

ALBEMARLE — Rob Hanlen has been hired as the new Parks and Recreation director for Albemarle.

The city announced Friday that he was selected by City Manager Darren Rhodes to lead the department, which oversees parkland, recreation programs and community facilities.

Hanlen is set to begin July 13.

“I am honored to join the city of Albemarle’s team,”

ment grant through the North Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority (RIA).

The money will support work on the 5,400-square-foot building on Falls Road that once operated as the rst hospital in Stanly County.

Built in 1917, the structure is expected to undergo a series of improvements, including new ooring, interior painting, ceiling repairs, roof and window work, electrical and lighting upgrades, and accessibility improvements to meet Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.

“This money, along with the

The president claimed vandals have damaged the pool’s new coating as authorities make multiple arrests

By Nathan Ellgren and Bill Barrow The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — National Guard members and U.S. Park Police patrolled the deck around the Lincoln Memorial Re ecting Pool on Monday as President Donald Trump’s administration faces a self-imposed deadline to x a botched renovation before the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration.

The patrols came two days after Trump said authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he insisted were responsible for damage to the peeling coating after an algae bloom occurred. The liner was installed as part of his $14 million-plus project.

The president has conrmed the problems most likely require draining the pool again for liner repairs, and he promised a quick x. Without o ering substantiation, he also said vandals dumped fertilizer in the pool and slashed the coating with a box cutter.

But the timeline was not clear Monday, with the White House saying damaged areas are still being assessed. Contractors and federal workers in recent days have been using chemicals and ozone nanobubbles to combat the algae.

Trump pitched the original improvements as intended to clean, beautify and reinforce an iconic site that he said had become dilapidated and dirty because of previous presidents’ neglect. Algae has plagued the pool for a century, and Trump insisted a newly installed “American ag blue” coating, which he selected himself, would turn the pool into a gleaming expanse along the National Mall.

Yet within weeks of Trump declaring the rehabilitation completed in time for Independence Day, the water was plagued by a vivid green algae bloom that clouded the pool’s coating. A piece of liner, about 4 square feet, was observed Friday partially oating in the pool. The Associated Press saw addition-

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Stanly County.

June 25

Free

David Hearn, former Olympic canoe racer

al pieces in the water Monday. Via social media, the president has blamed the problems on “SICK, DERANGED PEOPLE!” He asserted Monday on Truth Social that intentional damages include a “300 foot long gash” and that “chemicals have been illegally placed in the water.” A day earlier, Trump posted, “Work will begin immediately on xing the seriously vandalized Re ecting Pool.”

At an executive order signing Monday, the president said ve people had been arrested and ve more were under suspicion, and he deected blame for the pool’s maintenance issues.

“I can’t help it if somebody goes in with a knife and starts hacking it up,” he said.

He has not backed up those claims, and even if anyone has deliberately peeled or cut the lining, that would not explain the algae bloom that appeared more intensely than what typically occurred before the renovation.

Images showing that Trump’s project apparently back red boomeranged across social media last week,

drawing crowds of onlookers eager to see the e ects themselves. An unknown number ended up being detained by federal authorities.

One man arrested was David Hearn, 67, of Bethesda, Maryland. A former Olympic canoe racer, Hearn told The Associated Press that he reached into the pool because he wanted to examine the peeling new coating. He said he brie y touched a chunk that was still attached to the side of the pool, then let go shortly after a park worker told him to. Hearn said he was then detained by National Guard troops and Park Police for ve hours before being released Friday night.

“I’m a curious citizen,” Hearn said in a telephone interview. “I reached down to see what it felt like. It was very rubbery.”

The Park Police did not immediately respond Monday to AP’s questions about how many arrests were made and whether any charges had been led. Washington’s Metropolitan Police Department said Monday that the agency is not involved.

The White House said Monday that any arrests have been made only by the U.S. Park Police.

It was not immediately apparent what criminal or civil violation someone might commit reaching into the pool. Trump, in one of his Truth Social posts, cited laws against defacing monuments as grounds for imprisoning anyone harming the pool.

June 27

June 30 – July 3

This artwork exhibition will be the ninth annual senior art show sponsored by the Stanly Arts Guild. Admission is free.

152 W. Main St. Albemarle

THE CONVERSATION

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

VISUAL VOICES

Hillary is right

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president.

IN A NEW INTERVIEW this week, Hillary Clinton identi ed the key decision that resulted in President Donald Trump’s election in 2024. It all boiled down, in her view, to a “terrible miscalculation” — former President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s decision to run for reelection. Biden made a “terrible mistake for himself, his legacy and for the country” in deciding to seek reelection at the age of 81. Had he decided to “pass the torch” and the Democratic Party had held a competitive nomination process, “whoever emerged from that contest — whether it was the vice president, or a governor, or a senator or anybody else — would have beaten Donald Trump.”

Or, I would add, they would have had a better chance than Biden did.

Joe and Jill Biden clearly live in a state of denial with respect to Joe’s unpopularity. In some respects, it’s understandable: He wasn’t a bad president and he left the country in better shape than it is now. So why shouldn’t Jill think that even though she was afraid her husband was having a stroke during the debate with Trump, he should stay in the race and if he had, they both seem to believe, he would have beaten Trump. It’s delusional thinking that must have

been reinforced by the deep-seated loyalty of those who had been around him for so long. Sadly, the cost of that delusional thinking is being borne around the world.

The Democratic Party is still struggling to gure out what went wrong. The uno cial o cial autopsy report, which the Party commissioned and then disowned, studiously avoided any criticism of Biden’s decision to seek reelection, which cast doubt on the rest of the report.

Of course, the question remains: Was Kamala Harris the right candidate? That’s the one that even Clinton avoided, pointing out that Kamala would have been a stronger candidate if she’d emerged from a competitive process. But would she have? Emerged from a competitive process, that is. Kamala Harris was the vice president for an unpopular president. She was caught between defending the indefensible and attacking her own administration. She never gured out how to walk that line in the general election and there’s no reason to think it would have been easier in the primaries.

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president. They got

Not following the example of President James K. Polk

What if you have been clearly winning a war, by any military de nition, and yet the other side doesn’t surrender?

A PRESIDENT orders the onset of hostilities — war — without authorization of Congress and without much in the way of making a case with the public. His troops win important victories and decapitate large parts of the government of the enemy. But in the enemy capital, no one surrenders or will even negotiate seriously.

That leaves the president with the unhappy choice of launching a new military attack on the central focus of the enemy, one riskier and less certain of success than those before, or of declaring an incomplete victory, well short of his essential objective, and just getting the heck out of there.

One president in American history chose the risky rst option and, despite missteps along the way, secured major gains for the country, even if he ultimately fell short of the broader goals that emerged during the con ict. A more recent president has chosen the second option, though the results are still unclear.

Both presidents faced this basic problem: What if you have been clearly winning a war, by any military de nition, and yet the other side doesn’t surrender? Even worse, what if it’s unclear just who is making decisions on the other side and what their goal is?

At this point, it should be clear who one of the presidents is and which power he has chosen to attack and back o : President Donald Trump and the regime of Iran. The other is James Knox Polk, who served as speaker of the House in the 1830s and governor of Tennessee in the 1840s.

Polk pledged to serve just one term. He told historian and Cabinet member George Bancroft that he would pursue just four goals: set up an independent treasury, lower tari s, take uni ed control of the Oregon Territory and take possession of California.

He succeeded at all four in just four years. But not without di culty and controversy.

The treasury and the lower tari s he squeezed out of a Congress with a majority of his fellow

Democrats. Oregon he got after splitting the territory with Britain (which got British Columbia). For California, however, he had to go to war.

There was then some dispute about the borders of recently annexed Texas. Polk ordered Gen. Zachary Taylor to lead troops across the Nueces River to the Rio Grande, claimed by Mexico. Mexican troops attacked Taylor’s Americans.

With American bloodshed on American soil, Polk called on Congress to declare war. Although one-third of members had qualms, they voted for war with Mexico. Taylor then proceeded to beat Mexican troops in multiple battles near the border. But in the capital of Mexico City, or among o -and-on leader Santa Anna’s entourage, no one was negotiating. The great mass of Mexicans lived far south of the U.S. border and weren’t inclined to surrender.

What could Polk, eager to secure rights to California, do? In e ect, he started a second war, ordering Gen. Win eld Scott to land troops at Veracruz and proceed across 11,000-foot mountains, near the route of Cortes three centuries before, to reach Mexico City. It worked. In a feat of generalship praised by the aged Duke of Wellington, Scott beat the elusive Santa Anna, got his successor to surrender, and helped Nicholas Trist negotiate a treaty netting one-third of Mexican territory (but only 90,000 of its citizens). Polk, greedy for more land as Scott headed inland, wanted more and red Trist, but when presented with his treaty, he sent it to the Senate, which quickly rati ed it.

Trump’s actions were driven more by anger over Iran’s 1979 seizure of U.S. diplomats than by any goal as speci c as Polk’s. Still, the joint U.S.-Israel attacks during the June 2025 12-day war seriously degraded Iran’s nuclear program and set it back.

His attacks this year, starting in February, further degraded Iran’s nuclear program and, with pinpoint accuracy, killed the supreme leader

to see them both, up close. Harris ran a better campaign than she gets credit for. She did put her best foot forward. She was well- nanced. Experienced strategists surrounded her. She did not use a private email server, as Hillary did. She did not have investigators nipping at her heels, the way Hillary did. It was, considering everything, a smooth run. She just didn’t win. I have yet to hear any explanation for why she’s a stronger candidate today than she was in 2024, and she would need to be a stronger candidate to defeat a Marco Rubio, for instance. Kamala is leading in most, although not all, of the early polls, but that is a matter of name recognition; perhaps more signi cant is the fact that a majority of Democrats, at this stage, favor candidates other than Harris. And Harris has done almost nothing since the election to distinguish herself as the Party’s leader. Soon enough, we will be hearing more, not only from Gavin Newsom, who is already out there (and being investigated for it), but from Pritzker and Shapiro and Buttigieg, not to mention Jon Osso , Ro Khanna and AOC. The nomination process is awed in many ways, but at least it’s a test, one that Kamala will be forced to pass this time.

Susan Estrich is a lawyer, legal scholar, and political commentator.

(Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

and dozens of subordinates. He in icted great damage on Iran’s weaponry and its economy.

But the mullahs in Tehran, like the leaders in Mexico City, wouldn’t surrender, and they blocked oil tankers from transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Trump was left with two of his goals — higher tari s and zeroing out Iran’s nukes — seeming to produce politically disastrous high in ation.

So Trump decided not to follow the path of Polk. Amid occasional military attacks, he sought a “deal” with a regime that has paraded its hatred of America for 47 years and has made dozens of promises it has no intention of keeping.

In its latest iteration, the administration has been sluggish in revealing the details. The U.S. will be suspending military action and allowing Iran to freely sell oil, e ectively paying the regime billions. In return, Iran promises to negotiate about its nuclear program and to allow tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, if they pay tolls.

Not much better, you might say, than the “deal” former President Barack Obama negotiated with Iran in 2015, which Trump criticized bitterly then but doesn’t mention so much now. Vice President JD Vance says that Iranian leaders have decided they shouldn’t oppose “the Great Satan” as they have for 47 years, though that would be less incredible (though not very credible) coming from the Iranians themselves.

Perhaps Trump believes he can intimidate Iran’s evil leaders not to do things he doesn’t want, the way he has apparently intimidated Venezuela’s not-so-savory leaders. But it’s not clear that such intimidation is working optimally in the geographically closer, culturally more similar Caribbean, and, inevitably, heading into the second half of his last term, Trump’s ire is a waning asset. Neither his vice president nor any possible Democratic successor is likely to share it.

“If you set out to take Vienna, take Vienna,” Napoleon is supposed to have said. Setting out to take Tehran may or may not have been a mistake. Setting out to take Tehran and then not taking it almost clearly is.

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)

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Wine brands chase Gen Z with playful tie-ins to Shark Week, NASCAR, more

Younger drinkers are forcing wine to trade stu ness for sass, a ordability and pop culture moments

By J.M. Hirsch The Associated Press

BOSTON — Which wine pairs well with Shark Week? Does a pinot noir have enough acidity to cut through the grime of a Tough Mudder race? Is a big, brassy cabernet bold enough of a qua for a night of naming dead rodents after an ex?

And is a wine named SEX too provocative or not provocative enough?

Absurd as they may sound, these are the questions haunting wine marketers grappling with slumping sales and increasingly elusive drinkers. How consumers — especially younger drinkers — answer them will determine whether an industry long de ned by fuddy-duddy pretense can nd its footing in 2026 and beyond.

“That self-important way that wine can refer to itself — we’re really trying to tip that on its head,” said Helen Kurtz, chief of marketing for The Wine Group, which hopes that o erings such as its easy-drinking Cupcake Vineyards wines can attract a generation that came of age on Frappuccinos and gas station BuzzBallz.

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding,” she said.

By which she means partnering the company’s MD 20/20 (yes, it’s a wine) with World Wrestling Entertainment matches (“Mad Dog Enters the Ring”), and launching the aptly named Fuel by Franzia line of boxed wine beverages for NASCAR (“Full Throttle Flavor”).

Alcohol consumption has dropped

DIRECTOR from page A1 319 PALMER STREET ALBEMARLE NC 28001

Hanlen said in a statement.

“The city’s Parks and Recreation Department has a rich tradition of serving the community. I look forward to building on that foundation by creating innovative programming, fostering meaningful partnerships and developing spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds can connect, grow and thrive.”

In his new position, he will succeed Lisa Kiser, who retired March 1 after nine years leading the department and more than

28 years in municipal government.

“I am eager to bring my passion for community engagement and operational excellence to this role, and I cannot wait to get to work alongside such a dedicated team,” said Hanlen, who brings more than 20 years of experience in athletics, recreation and facilities operations. He earned a bachelor’s degree in recreation, parks and tourism management from Penn State and a master’s degree in sports management from Old Dominion.

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding.”

Helen Kurtz, Chief of Marketing, The Wine Group

Christian Miller, director of research for the Wine Market Council.

A pretentious image keeps some customers away

Wine, from the labels to the language used to describe it, historically has leaned pricy and pretentious (looking at you, “notes of asphalt and barnyard”). Wine trends also have favored boozy and bracing styles, a hard sell for folks used to sipping hard seltzers at the club.

It’s a fresh lesson on the importance of nding your customer rather than hoping they nd you. Because almost across the board, alcohol consumption is down, a trend that accelerated post-pandemic. A host of factors is at play, including aging Boomers seeking healthier lifestyles, Gen Z’s gravitation to low- and no-alcohol beverages, and widening availability of alternatives such as marijuana.

Each segment of the alcohol industry — valued at around $560 billion in the U.S. — is responding di erently. Hard liquor, for example, has found a rare growth category in ready-to-drink canned cocktails. But the wine industry faces its own constellation of challenges, many of its own making.

For anyone new to wine particularly much-coveted 20-somethings — nding one’s way can be daunting, something of a Château du Stu y e ect.

“You’ve got a bunch of things, what you might call friction points with wine that are particularly salient to younger consumers,” including cost and drinkability, said

He most recently served as director of operations for The Trinity Athletic Center at Trinity Washington University in Washington, D.C. In that role, Hanlen helped create a risk management plan focused on safety for members and sta , guiding marketing, operations and grant-funded initiatives intended to support the facility’s long-term needs.

He also previously held several positions with the Montgomery County Department of Recreation in Silver Spring, Maryland. His work there in-

Fewer than a third of Gen-Z households own a corkscrew, according to a trends report by the British household products company Lakeland. Even simply trying a wine comes with a gatekeeper: Hard liquor is easy to sample at a bar or as single-shot nips; most wine requires a full-bottle commitment.

A cadre of wineries has begun pushing the bounds of wine culture by ditching the fussy façade in favor of a sassy vibe and accessible language. Price matters too (the sweet spot seems to be the $8 to $20 a bottle range), but not nearly so much as the message.

It’s about using contemporary communication to pitch “something that’s been made for centuries,” said Charles Smith, founder of House of Smith, the company behind younger, shopper-friendly brands such as Kung Fu Girl Riesling and SEX Rosé. “My mantra is always to communicate the language of wine to everyone because not everyone speaks wine. The wine should be a re ection of the consumer who is going to buy it.”

Can tie-ins to pop culture make wine more relatable?

Bogle Family Wine Collection has leaned in with its Juggernaut Wines. Adorned with almost graphically violent labels showcasing alpha

cluded helping open and expand community centers, including a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certi ed multipurpose facility that drew more than 600 visitors per day.

“Rob Hanlen brings hands-on expertise in community recreation, spanning everything from capital projects and infrastructure planning to programming, scheduling, and daily operations,” Rhodes said. “This well-rounded background makes Rob an exceptional t for Albemarle. His leadership

predators — a shark, a grizzly, an orca, a lion and some sort of particularly angry bird of prey — the bottles are a far cry from the placid villas and languorous ladies plastered across so many wines.

The other side of it is getting those bottles into spaces not traditionally associated with wine, said Jessica LaBounty, the company’s marketing director. For two years, Juggernaut has announced “Adventure awaits” as it sponsored the grueling Tough Mudder races. They’ve also done placements at zoos that host nights where people can name dead rodents and insects after former partners and feed them to the animals. Cheers…?

And this year, it’s Discovery network’s Shark Week. Juggernaut’s chardonnay label sports an especially snappish great white and “just the right amount of bite.”

“The viewer base of Shark Week lines up really, really nicely with who we know our consumer to be,” LaBounty said. “It’s another way to meet them where they are already versus kind of asking them to come to us.”

Learning to speak Gen Z is key

The goal is to bridge a generational divide in which wine got lost. Younger drinkers don’t and won’t talk about wine the way older drinkers do. To that point, there’s a clever social media meme about a Millennial marketing team pitching wine vs. a Gen-Z social media team. The Millennial e ort goes on at length about terroir and full-bodied avors. Gen-Z’s pitch? “it’s giving… yummy”.

Vibe is everything for Bread & Butter Wines, with the tagline, “Don’t overthink it.” As in, pair their red blend with a candy charcuterie board. Or their pinot noir with a Thanksgiving leftovers sandwich. Want fries with that? Try their prosecco.

“The No. 1 goal is to disrupt the shelf because it is so crowded,” said Caitlin Ward, brand and digital marketing director. “Sassiness is a way to do that.”

J.M. Hirsch is a longtime food writer who was food editor of The Associated Press for nearly a decade until 2016.

will be critical as we implement the city’s Parks and Recreation Master Plan.”

Now in its 63rd year, Albemarle Parks and Recreation maintains about 300 acres of parkland across six parks.

The department’s o erings include shing, kayaking, sports elds, playgrounds, pools and educational programs. Residents can register for programs, reserve facilities, sign up for leagues and view its calendar through the city’s online recreation database at albemarle.recdesk.com.

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of pinot noir wines, from left, Josh Cellars Reserve, Juggernaut and Chloe, sit on shelves at a grocery store in Concord, New Hampshire, on June 8.

World Cup ticket buyers left stranded as resale purchases fall through

Some sellers list tickets before owning them, betting on price drops

By R.J. Rico and Emilie Megnien

The Associated Press

ATLANTA — Bina Ramroop broke down in tears when she realized she wasn’t going to get the World Cup tickets she had bought for her grandson’s 13th birthday.

As thousands poured into Atlanta Stadium last Monday to see Spain face Cape Verde in what turned out to be a remarkable scoreless draw, Ramroop stood outside, increasingly stressed as she went back and forth for hours between StubHub representatives on the phone and FIFA representatives in the ticket booth. Each blamed the other.

No one could gure out why the tickets Ramroop bought months ago on StubHub for $485 apiece couldn’t be transferred from the original seller to the FIFA ticketing app. StubHub o ered her a refund and, as Ramroop heard the crowd roar for the start of the match, she knew she had no choice but to give up and take the o er.

“I didn’t want a refund, I didn’t want my money back,” Ramroop said. “I wanted to go to the game.”

The World Cup has delivered thrills on the pitch, but fans have ooded social media with complaints about tickets that never arrived, orders that were canceled at the last minute and hours they spent trying to sort out problems between FIFA’s ticketing system and outside resale platforms. The vast majority seem to be about industry titan StubHub, but people who bought through competitors such as SeatGeek and Vivid Seats have also reported issues. Interviews with fans and industry experts show that some cases stem from technical glitches in the transfer process, while others could involve sellers who never had tickets to deliver in the rst place, though StubHub denies such sales happen on its platform.

A grandmother’s disappointment

FIFA has urged fans to buy resale tickets through its own

CENTER from page A1

many private donations received, will be used to renovate the old hospital into a state-of-the-art meeting and community center which will be a great asset for the town,” the town of Badin said in a statement.

Town o cials said they hope construction can begin in the next couple of months, with completion targeted near the end of the year.

“Many thanks go out to all who helped make this happen. Stay tuned for updates on time-

“I didn’t want a refund, I didn’t want my money back. I wanted to go to the game.”

Bina Ramroop

marketplace, where it slaps a 30% surcharge on every resold ticket — 15% each from the buyer and seller. But many fans bought through other resale sites, either out of habit or because those sites have lower prices or are easier to navigate. Ramroop didn’t realize she was taking a risk when she bought through StubHub, which she had used in the past without issues.

As she and her grandson Elijah Gomes took the long, lonely train ride back to the Atlanta suburbs, Elijah followed the score on his phone. The match had ended scoreless, and he tried to cheer up his devastated grandmother by telling her they hadn’t missed much after all (Cape Verdeans would beg to di er).

“He’s telling me, ‘Grandma, it’s OK, Grandma.’ And he’s trying to console me,” Ramroop said the next day.

She was hardly alone. An Associated Press journalist witnessed more than a dozen frustrated fans at the match who said they were stuck in similar situations.

StubHub blamed FIFA for the transfer problems that buyers like Ramroop have experienced. In a statement, it said FIFA has “poor technology infrastructure,” enacted last-minute transfer restrictions and didn’t launch its new ticketing app until a few weeks before the tournament. The company also called out organizers that “take anti-competitive actions” that limit where fans can buy and sell tickets.

Asked about the technical issues, FIFA last week reiterated that sales through its o cial site are guaranteed to go through.

An industry’s longstanding problem

Industry observers say the problems appear to stem from more than one cause. For some, it may indeed be technical glitches — an issue that StubHub says is “very, very rare” and one that it is hard at work to solve. For others, they say it’s likely a more longstanding scourge: speculative sellers.

Scott Friedman, an industry veteran and co-founder of a consultancy called the Ticket Talk Network, said some sellers list tickets before they actually have them, betting that prices will fall closer to the event so they can buy the tickets at a better price later. But because World Cup ticket prices have surged since the tournament began, those sellers have been forced to either buy expen-

“These grants contribute to our state’s positive momentum by making necessary infrastructure improvements that will bring good-paying jobs and help communities thrive.”

Gov. Josh Stein

lines and progress. This project, combined with the new urgent care clinic, will bring the building back to its former glory and complete the goal of full restoration.”

The Badin project is expected to leverage an additional $12,085 in investment, according to the state.

Gov. Josh Stein announced last Thursday that the RIA ap-

Patrick O’Neil, his wife, Gina Di no, right, and their 15-year-old son, Aidan, attend the World Cup match between Czechia and South Africa in Atlanta on last Thursday

tion laws, but it would be an uphill battle.

A father’s regrets

Pape Ndaw is crestfallen that the high school graduation gift he got for his son — tickets for them to see the Netherlands and Japan near their home city of Dallas — never arrived.

He bought the tickets for about $550 apiece in December. Then, two days before the June 14 match, he received an email from StubHub telling him, “The seller can’t deliver your original tickets.”

Ndaw accepted store credit rather than a refund, thinking he would use the funds to quickly get replacements, only to then realize that the cheapest last-minute tickets were going for more than $1,500 each. Not only were they not going to get to go to the game, but Ndaw said StubHub rejected his belated request for a refund instead of store credit.

Breaking the news to his soccer-obsessed son was brutal, Ndaw said.

sive tickets to ful ll their orders or cancel and accept penalties from resale platforms. StubHub’s penalties are typically 200% of the ticket price, Friedman said.

“This is not new at all,” said Friedman, pointing to other high-pro le events where frustrated fans were left empty-handed, including Taylor Swift’s Eras tour. “This has been going on, but it’s making global news because it’s the World Cup.”

StubHub says it requires sellers to prove they have tickets before they list them.

But regardless of the reason for the canceled sales, Friedman said “StubHub should ll every single order to make sure fans get in the biggest global sporting event that happens every four years.”

That’s what many fans say they expected when they purchased through StubHub.

StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee promises replacement tickets or a refund if tickets fail to arrive. But the policy repeatedly says those remedies are provided at StubHub’s “sole discretion,” meaning the company can choose a refund instead of securing replacement seats.

“That is pretty explicit language,” said Michael McCann, a sports law expert at the University of New Hampshire. McCann noted that a buyer could try to challenge the language under state consumer protec-

proved eight grant requests to local governments totaling more than $4 million. The projects are tied to more than $126.2 million in public and private investment and commitments to create 396 jobs, 300 of which had been previously announced.

“North Carolina’s small towns continue to attract investment because they are great places to live, raise a family and do business,” Stein said. “These grants contribute to our state’s positive momentum by making necessary infrastructure improvements that will bring good-paying jobs

“It was a disastrous thing,” he said. “He had told all his friends that he was going to that game. He literally cried. I mean, he is a 17-year-old kid, but he cried.”

Others fared somewhat better

Patrick O’Neil of Pittsboro traveled to Atlanta with his wife, son and relatives after purchasing ve tickets through StubHub for the Spain-Cape Verde match. Two tickets transferred successfully, but three never arrived.

O’Neil’s 15-year-old son and his uncle ended up using the two tickets, while O’Neil, his wife and another relative watched from a nearby bar.

After local media caught wind of their ordeal, O’Neil said StubHub contacted the family and o ered tickets to another game. Since the family had already bought tickets to one, though, he and his wife asked the company to instead give the seats to local nonpro t Soccer in the Streets so they could go to people who otherwise might not be able to attend a match.

“StubHub is not evil, but they’re part of the whole system that makes it really hard for just normal kids and people who might want to see a match get to go,” O’Neil said. Last week, a StubHub representative con rmed to the AP that the company would honor the O’Neils’ request and send tickets to the nonpro t.

and help communities thrive.”

The authority approved two requests through the Rural Downtown Economic Development program, including Badin’s grant under the Public Buildings Category.

The RIA is supported by the rural economic development team at the Department of Commerce. Its members review and approve funding requests from local governments for projects such as infrastructure improvements, building renovations, building expansions, demolition and site improvements.

R.J. RICO / AP PHOTO

Gladys Janelle Hutchinson McSwain

March 15, 1936 –June 19, 2026

Gladys Janelle Hutchinson McSwain, 90, of Albemarle, passed away on June 19, 2026, at home, surrounded by her loving sons.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at West Albemarle Baptist Church, with Pastors Adam Hatley and Brent Pope o ciating. Interment will follow at Silver Springs Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until 10:45 a.m. prior to the service.

Ms. McSwain, lovingly known as “Purple Nannie,” was born on March 15, 1936, in Stanly County to the late Charles and Nellie Thompson Hutchinson. She was a homemaker, raising her boys and manning the home front while her husband served in the U.S. Army. At the young age of 28, she set out with her two young sons on a ship to Germany, having never before left Stanly County. She returned with a love of schnitzel and sauerkraut. She and her family also lived for three years in Hawaii and spent time at Fort Bragg during her husband’s stateside assignments. Along with her love for unique treats, she was an accomplished bowler, participating in leagues in both Fayetteville and Albemarle.

IN MEMORY

OBITUARIES

Ms. McSwain maintained lifelong friendships from her years in Germany, Hawaii, and Fayetteville. Over the years, she mailed hundreds— possibly thousands—of cards to faraway friends and family, often enclosing ice cream money for birthdays.

What Janelle would most want to be remembered for, however, was her unwavering faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, her willingness to profess that faith to anyone within earshot, and her diligent prayers. She was a faithful member of West Albemarle Baptist Church, including participation in the Happiness Club, until her health prevented her from attending. She continued to listen to Pastor Adam’s sermons and enjoyed visits from church members.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Larry McSwain; brothers and sisters, Jack Hutchinson, Charles David Hutchinson, Ginger Spivey, Lewis “Pookie” Hutchinson, and Bonnie Hopkins.

She is survived by her loving and devoted sons, Je and Tim; grandchildren, Chase McSwain, Logan (Scott) Evans, and Cody (Hillary) McSwain; great-grandchildren, Harper McSwain, Bruce Evans, and Dylan Evans; sister, Margaret Hutchinson; brother-in-law, Bill Russell; and sisters-in-law, Debbie Hutchinson and Jackie Russell.

The family asks those remembering Janelle to wear purple in her honor. They would also like to extend a special thank-you to Janelle’s caregivers, Windy Cauble, Rachael Kessler, Tillery Compassionate Care, and Stanly County Senior Services Home Delivered Meals, as well as the many friends who stopped by to brighten her day during her extended illness.

In lieu of owers, memorials may be made to the Sid Talbert Youth Fund at West Albemarle Baptist Church in Janelle’s memory

PHYLLIS EFIRD

JUNE 30, 1939 – JUNE 20, 2026

Phyllis Marie Harwood E rd, 86, passed away at Spring Arbor Senior Living in Albemarle, NC on June 20, 2026. She was preceded in death by her husband, James Robert E rd Sr., sister, Linda Burleson, and parents, Crawford and Clyde Harwood.

She is survived by her son, James (Diane) E rd of Charlotte; daughter, Roxanne (Reese) Linnell of Oakboro; son, Bradley (Lori) E rd of Oakboro; eight grandchildren; and four greatgrandchildren, who a ectionately called her Maw-Maw.

She was a lifelong member of Cottonville Baptist Church where she served as a Sunday School teacher and treasurer among other roles. A graduate of Carolina Business School, she was the o ce manager at Lorch Plumbing and Heating for over 40 years. In retirement, she served as a volunteer at Atrium Hospital in Albemarle. She loved family gatherings and walks along the beach where she was a master shell collector.

Visitation will be at Cottonville Baptist Church between 2-3:00 p.m. on June 23. Her funeral will be at 3:00 p.m. with a graveside service following. Rev. Reese Linnell will o ciate, and Edwards Funeral Home is serving the family. Please make memorials to Tillery Compassionate Care, 960 N First Street, Albemarle, NC 28001, or the Taylor House, 319 Palmer Street, Albemarle, NC 28001.

BEATRICE MILDRED BLACKWELDER

JAN. 13, 1935 – JUNE 18, 2026

Beatrice Mildred Blackwelder, 91, of Stan eld, passed away Thursday, June 18, 2026, at Atrium Health Cabarrus Hospital in Concord.

Beatrice was born January 13, 1935, in North Carolina to the late Fred Lee Love, Sr. and the late Dallie Love.

She was also preceded in death by her husband, Fred Edwin Blackwelder; son, Fred Wayne Blackwelder; granddaughter, April Kimrey; sisters, Minnie Drye, Nellie Drye, Doris Mullis, Pauline Virginia Morgan, Faye Smith, Leola Love; and brothers, Fred Love, Jr. and Jessie Love.

Beatrice was a loving and kind soul. She adored spending time with her family and loved ones. In her free time, she would be found doing word search puzzles and relaxing at her home. Beatrice was a devoted member of Kinza Memorial Baptist and deeply loved her church family. Her love for God was evident in her life, in which she never wavered. Beatrice absolutely loved her dog, Molly. Molly was her special companion and a wonderful extension to the family. Beatrice spent many days caring for others and ensured that the ones around her felt loved. Beatrice will be sorely missed by all who knew and loved her.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 am - 10:45 am, Monday, June 22, 2026, at Kinza Memorial Baptist Church. The funeral service will be at 11:00 am followed by burial in the church cemetery at 4311 Love Mill Road, Stan eld.

Survivors include daughters, Mary Sue Kimrey of Stan eld, NC, Brenda (Linn) Reeder of Concord, NC, Belinda Eudy of Albemarle, NC, and Kay Burnette; grandchildren, Kayla Kimrey, Steven (Elaine) Burnette, Richard Burnette, Steve (Amanda) Eudy, Amy (Tim) Ross; brother, Jim Love; eleven great-grands and nine great-great-grands.

ROBERT “BOBBY” RAY BARRINGER

NOV. 2, 1940 – JUNE 18, 2026

Robert “Bobby” Ray Barringer, 85, of Albemarle passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at his home.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 11:00 AM at St. Martin’s Lutheran Church. Pastor Phil Thorsen will o ciate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends the night prior, Monday, June 22, 2026, at Edwards Funeral Home in Norwood from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM.

Bobby was born on November 2, 1940, to the late Burnie Allen and Alice Louise Forrest Barringer. He was a cabinet builder at Homes By Oakwood for 20+ years and later retired from Stanly Fixtures. Bobby was a member of St. Martin’s Lutheran Church. He was also a mason and a member of the Pee Dee Lodge #150 in Norwood.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his son, Jerry Ray Barringer, and his siblings: Doug Barringer, Glenn Barringer, Lorene Caudle and Sharon Corl.

He is survived by his wife, Catherine Hartsell Barringer; their children: Patricia Hatley (Roger), and Tammy Sides (Bobby), grandchildren: Shane Hatley (Allison), and Travis Hatley (Bella), great-grandchildren: Hayden, Hinley, Holden, and Zoey; brother Alonzo Barringer and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of owers, donations to the funeral costs may be made to Edwards Funeral Home.

BRENDA HOPKINS

JULY 24, 1948 – JUNE 19, 2026

Brenda Ruth Hopkins, 77, of Albemarle, passed away Friday, June 19, 2026, at Bethany Woods Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Albemarle.

Brenda was born July 24, 1948, in North Carolina to the late Willie Grissom and the late Sara Grissom. She was also preceded in death by her husband, John Larry Hopkins, and her brother, Gurney Gibson.

Brenda spent her time doing word searches, shing and spending time with her family and friends.

The family will receive friends from 6- 8 p.m. on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle. Burial will take place on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Bible Tabernacle Cemetery.

Survivors include daughter Denise Purkey (Robert Purkey Jr.), grandson Brian G. Purkey, great-granddaughter Brylee, sister Sarah Hinson, brother Junior Grissom, and nieces and nephews.

In lieu of owers, memorials may be shared to Stanly County Humane Society, 2049 Badin Road, Albemarle, NC 28001.

DONALD RANDALL

MARCH 26, 1950 – JUNE 19, 2026

Donald Wayne Randall, 76, of Norwood, passed away early Friday morning, June 19, 2026, at his home.

A memorial service will be held on Sunday, June 21, 2026 at 3:00 PM at Edwards Funeral Home in Norwood. Pastor Chris Boyd will o ciate. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Donald was born on March 26, 1950. He served our nation’s military in the Army during the Vietnam War. Donald went on to work in construction, installing nuclear power equipment. He was a member of East Albemarle Church of God. Donald loved church, boating, shing, and trying new restaurants. He was a hard worker and a wonderful husband who loved his church and his family.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his brothers and sisters

He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Thelma Randall, of the home; his daughter, Heather Smith; his brother, Kenneth; and his sister, June.

the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Stanly News Journal at obits@stanlynewsjournal.com

STANLY SPORTS

North Stanly baseball trio competes at State Games

Three Comets played for the Region 6 team

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

NEW LONDON — Three North Stanly baseball players represented Stanly County last week at one of the state’s top high school baseball showcases.

Nolan Ellington, Jarrett Hinson and Aiden Hamilton were each selected to play for Region 6 in the 39th annual Bodyarmor State Games of North Carolina high school baseball event, held June 15-19 in Greensboro and High Point.

Ellington and Hinson are rising senior pitchers, while Hamilton is a rising senior shortstop.

Coached by Hickory Ridge’s Jordan Sells, Region 6 nished third among the event’s eight regional teams.

Region 6 opened tournament play with a 4-3 loss to Region 7 on June 16 before bouncing back with a 4-2 win over Region 8 the following day. The team then fell 5-1 to Region 3 before closing the week with a 15-0 win over Region 4 in the bronze medal game.

In a 5-3 nal, Region 3 went on to defeat Region 2 in the gold medal game.

The high school baseball event featured current varsity stars from across North Carolina, with 20 players selected to represent each of the eight regions. Players were chosen after regional tryouts, where coaches evaluated and scored participants before rosters were nalized.

“We are incredibly proud of Nolan, Jarrett and Aiden for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to the game,” the North Stanly Booster Club said in a statement. “Their selection to represent Region 6 is a testament to the talent and character they bring both on and o the eld.”

Games were played at First National Bank Field, Truist Point Stadium and UNC Greensboro. Each team took part in a scout workout June 15 before playing one game per day from June 16-19.

Hosted by the North Caro -

The awards are based on athletic and academic achievements

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

MISENHEIMER — Eleven Pfei er University student athletes across golf and lacrosse were recently recognized on the 2025-26 Academic All-District Men’s and Women’s At-Large teams, selected by College Sports Communicators.

The honorees, announced June 16, included ve golfers and six lacrosse players from the Falcons’ programs.

The CSC Academic All-District awards recognize student athletes for combined success in competition and in the classroom. To be eligible, nominees must have reached sophomore standing academically and athletically while maintaining at least a 3.50 cumulative grade point average.

Pfei er men’s golfers Aidan Hollar and Wyatt Reeder were two of the USA South Athletic Conference’s three men’s golf selections, while Ella Couper, Morgan Heilig and Kirstyn Page represented Pfei er among the conference’s nine women’s golf honorees.

The Falcons’ men’s golf team nished fourth in the USA South Tournament, while the women’s team placed fth.

From

lina Amateur Sports nonpro t organization, the Olympic-style competition — featuring more than 12,000 athletes and 600 teams competing in roughly 25 to 30 sports — is North Carolina’s largest multisport festival. The high school baseball portion remains one of the

state’s premier showcases, with coaches from across North Carolina volunteering to hold tryouts and select regional teams. Players also had an opportunity to compete in front of college and professional scouts while representing their schools and communities.

represented Stanly County at the Bodyarmor

“We are incredibly proud of Nolan, Jarrett and Aiden for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to the game.”

North Stanly Booster Club

Pfei er also had four men’s lacrosse players named Academic All-District: Collin Finley, David Foxwell, Sawyer Moretz and Hayden Polakowski. The group accounted for four of the USA South’s 20 men’s lacrosse honorees. The Falcons’ men’s lacrosse team went 16-3 overall this season, nished unbeaten in conference play for the third straight year and earned the program’s second NCAA Division III Tournament win in the past four seasons.

Falcons who made the 2026 Academic All-District golf and lacrosse list

On the women’s lacrosse side, Pfei er’s Rylee Honeycutt and Emma LaFave were two of the USA South’s 18 selections. The Falcons nished fth in

the conference standings with a 5-4 USA South record and an 11-6 overall mark.

Brevard, William Peace, Methodist, Meredith, Piedmont and LaGrange were the other USA South programs represented across the men’s and women’s golf and lacrosse at-large categories.

Academic All-District honorees were also considered for advancement to the CSC Academic All-America ballot, with selected student athletes moving on for a

Pfei er golfers and lacrosse players had a large showing on the 2025-26 Academic All-District men’s and women’s at-large teams.

national vote by CSC members. Page advanced as an Academic All-America nalist on the women’s golf list. The rising senior averaged 77.2 strokes per round this past season, ranking fth among USA South individual leaders. The King native also captured the individual title at the Camp Lejeune Intercollegiate on April 12.

CSC will announce the women’s Academic All-America teams July 7, followed by the men’s teams July 8.

left, North Stanly’s Nolan Ellington, Jarrett Hinson and Aiden Hamilton

State Games in Greensboro last week.

NBA Sweeney takes over in Orlando, says Magic convinced him t was right Orlando, Fla.

Sean Sweeney landed interviews for more than a few NBA head coaching vacancies over the last few years, and many of them seemed the same. Talking to Orlando, he said, was di erent. Sweeney was introduced last Thursday as the new coach of the Magic, which was the obvious proof that he won them over by his answers during the interview process. Turns out, the Magic won him over with their questions as well.

MLB

Ohtani, in Instagram post,

annouces second child

Los Angeles

Shohei Ohtani is a father again. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar has shared the news on his Instagram account. He and his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, expressed joy over the safe birth and thanked supporters. A photo of tiny feet and a blue blanket suggest he has a son to go with his daughter, who was born in April 2025. Ohtani missed last Friday’s game when the team placed him on paternity leave. Ohtani was back in the lineup in the leado spot for Saturday’s game.

SWIMMING

Douglass breaks women’s 50-meter freestyle world record in 23.59

Indianapolis Kate Douglass has broken the world record in the women’s 50-meter freestyle at the Tyr Pro Swim Series meet in Indianapolis. She won the nal in 23.59 seconds, bettering Sarah Sjostrom’s mark of 23.61 set in July 2023. Sjostrom had held the seven fastest times in history. Gretchen Walsh was second in 23.78, making her the fourth-fastest performer ever. Anna Moesch nished third in 24.30. Douglass says her time is faster than she ever expected.

NHL Leafs acquire Raddysh from Lightning, sign him to 8-year contract

The Toronto Maple Leafs signed defenseman Darren Raddysh to an eight-year contract after acquiring his rights in a trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Raddysh’s contract is reportedly worth $68 million. The 30-year-old is coming o setting career highs with 22 goals, 48 assists and 70 points in 73 games with Tampa Bay. He produced the same amount over the previous two seasons combined after becoming a full-time NHL player as recently as 2023.

WORLD CUP

Morocco star Hakimi to stand trial in rape case, French appeals court con rms

A French appeals court con rms that Paris Saint- Germain and Morocco star player Achraf Hakimi will stand trial in a rape case. The defender is currently playing with Morocco at the World Cup. Hakimi denied any wrongdoing after facing preliminary charges of rape in March 2023. A 24-year-old woman accused him of raping her at his home in a Paris suburb. The Versailles court’s decision was released just hours before Morocco takes on Scotland at the World Cup. A trial date has not been announced.

Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: community@stanlynewsjournal.com Weekly deadline is Monday at noon

Heim outduels Reddick for rst NASCAR Cup win at inaugural San Diego race

Michael Jordan’s 23XI drivers took the top two spots

The Associated Press CORONADO, Calif. — Corey Heim slammed into the wall twice while destroying his tires during the rst few runs in the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race at Naval Base Coronado.

It was no problem for Heim, whose No. 67 Toyota inexplicably kept getting faster on the way to his rst career Cup Series victory in only his 13th start.

The 23-year-old part-time driver from Marietta, Georgia, took a deep breath before the second half of the race and reminded himself that he had as much experience as the veterans on the 16-turn, 3.4-mile street course on Coronado Island, just south of downtown San Diego.

“I’m speechless,” Heim said.

“Maybe I knocked some good into the car. I have no idea. I had high expectations coming into this race. I just reset and went after it.”

Heim, the 2024 truck series champion who will move full time into Cup next season with 23XI Racing, led the nal three laps after snatching rst from teammate Tyler Reddick.

“I was able to stick with him, and ve to go came, and it was time to put some pressure on him and see if I could get him to make a mistake,” Heim said.

“Sure enough, he did.”

Bubba Wallace nished second to deliver a 1-2 nish for 23XI Racing, the team co - owned by Denny Hamlin and NBA great Michael Jordan. Reddick su ered a at tire in the closing laps and fell to 25th, cutting his lead in the standings to eight points over Hamlin.

“To even have a shot at it at the end was really nice,” said Reddick, who started from the

rear after unapproved adjustments to his No. 45 Toyota. “First and foremost, congratulations to Corey. I thought I was going to be able to hold him o there. It de nitely stings. Really needed a good points day. Had another really bad one, so we’ll try and scrape together.”

Heim became the third rst-time winner in Cup this season, joining Ty Gibbs (Bristol) and Carson Hocevar (Talladega).

“Just crazy,” Heim said. “I hope I don’t wake up from this dream.”

His peers already think Heim’s for real.

“Awesome job by Corey Heim,” two-time Cup champion Kyle Larson said after nishing third. “That’s really cool. He’s a super talented race car driver, and it’s neat to see somebody get their rst win, especially at a challenging track like this.”

“Maybe I knocked some good into the car. I have no idea”

Cory Heim who hit the wall twice before recovering to win

Zane Smith and AJ Allmendinger rounded out the top ve. Hamlin, the driver-owner who had won the past three races for Joe Gibbs Racing, nished 14th.

SVG stunner

Shane van Gisbergen nished 38th in his bid for an eighth road or street course victory (which will make him the active leader among Cup drivers).

After starting from the pole position, van Gisbergen was caught in a crash that started when Trackhouse Racing teammate Connor Zilisch and Austin Hill collided while battling for the lead on a Lap 32 restart. The nine-car incident caused a nine-minute red ag for wall repairs.

“I felt like I was giving Austin space, and the next thing, I was in the wall,” said Zilisch, who led the rst eight laps of his Cup career in the highlight of a miserable rookie season. “Really unfortunate. I hate to end both days for both Shane and I. We had a really fast car today. I had a lot of fun. I really enjoyed just getting to race out front and lead laps.”

Shane Van Gisbergen (97) and Bubba Wallace (23) come out of Turn 2 on Sunday at Naval Base Coronado.

DENIS POROY / AP PHOTO

Cory Heim celebrates in Victory Lane after winning Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Coronado, California.

DENIS POROY / AP PHOTO

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NOTICE

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA IN THE FAMILY COURT OF THE SIXTH JUDICIAL CIRCUIT COUNTY OF LANCASTER DOCKET NO.: 2026-DR-29-281 Notice of Adoption ProceedingS TO THE DEFENDANT: JOHN DOE BIRTH FATHER YOU ARE HEREBY GIVEN THE FOLLOWING NOTICE: 1. That an adoption proceeding was led in the Family Court of Lancaster County on April 22, 2026, and in this Complaint, you are alleged to be the father of a Caucasian female child born in Albermarle, North Carolina, on April 28, 2026. 2. That the Plainti s in the above captioned Notice are not named for the purpose of con dentiality; however, the Court knows the true identity of the Plainti s and in responding to this notice, you are required to use the caption and the number 2026DR-29-281. 3. That if Notice to Contest, Intervene or otherwise Respond is led by you with the Court within thirty (30) days of the receipt of this Notice of Adoption Proceedings, you will be given an opportunity to appear and be heard on the merits of the adoption. To le notice to Contest, Intervene or otherwise Respond in this action, you must notify the above named Court at Lancaster County Courthouse, Clerk of Court at Lancaster County Family Court, 100 N. Catawba St., Lancaster, South Carolina, 29720 in writing of your intention to Contest, Intervene or otherwise Respond. The above named Court must be informed of your current address and any changes of your address during the adoption proceedings. 4. That your failure to respond within thirty (30) days of receipt of this Notice of Adoption Proceedings constitutes your consent to the adoption and forfeiture of all of your rights and obligations to the above identi ed child. It is further alleged that your consent to this adoption is not required under S.C. Code Ann. Section 63-9-310 and that your parental rights should be terminated pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. Section 63-7-2570 (7). This notice is given pursuant to S.C. Code Ann. Section 63-9-730 (E). Lori L. Horst, Esquire (SC Bar #106493) Godwin & Horst, Attorneys at Law PO Box 354. Greenville, SC 29602 PH (864) 241-2883 Greenville, South Carolina FAX: (864) 255-4342 May 28, 2026 ATTORNEY FOR PLAINTIFFS

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 25E000463-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having quali ed as Administrator of the Estate of Jack Curry Nipper deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Jack Curry Nipper to present them to the undersigned on or before September 19, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 17th day of June 2026. Paul Fernandez 6227 Lookout Loop Raleigh, NC 27612 Administrator

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 25E000162-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having quali ed as Executor of the Estate of Marjorie Barden Jarrett deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Marjorie Barden Jarrett to present them to the undersigned on or before September 26, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment.

This the 24th day of June 2026 Richard Alton Jarrett Jr. 754 Carneros Circle High Point, NC 27265 Executor

NOTICE

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE No. 26E000076-830 NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having quali ed as EXECUTOR of the estate of MICHAEL J. SMITH, deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said MICHAEL J. SMITH to present them to the undersigned on or before September 24, 2026, or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 24th day of June, 2026. Executor: Ashley E. Smith 32 William Penn Avenue Pennsville, NJ 08070 Erin L. Basinger Attorney at Law PO Box 65 Albemarle, NC 28002

(704) 322-2800

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000238-830

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having quali ed as Executor of the estate of Houston Cameron deceased,

the stream

Paul Simon, ‘In the Hand of Dante,’ ‘Avatar: The Last Airbender,’ Star Fox

British rockers Muse drop “The Wow! Signal”

By Jake Coyle

The Associated Press

A PAUL SIMON concert special and Season 2 of the live-action “Avatar: The Last Airbender” 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: a new Larry David series celebrating American history, the horror lm “Undertone” and the return of Star Fox.

MOVIES TO STREAM

Filmmaker Ian Tuason uses soundscapes to scare audiences in his debut feature “Undertone,” a minimalist auditory horror about a paranormal podcaster that is streaming on HBO Max on Friday. In his review for The Associated Press, lm writer Jake Coyle wrote that “it’s a testament to Tuason’s evident lmmaking talent that, with these bare bones, ‘Undertone’ swells into a gripping and unsettling experience. This is a movie that summons many of its scares with a sudden boost in audio levels, the thunderous tick of a clock or the scream of … a tea kettle. It’s even rated ‘R’ not for bloodcurdling violence or satanic ghouls but, simply, ‘language.’”

John Cena plays a buttoned-up real estate agent whose carefully curated life gets upended when his chaotic “little brother,” played by Eric André, reappears in his life in the new Net ix comedy “Little Brother,” streaming Friday. Michelle Monaghan, Christopher Meloni and Caleb Hearon are all part of the big ensemble cast. Also arriving on Net ix, on Wednesday is Julian Schnabel’s “In the Hand of Dante,” a divisive “literary gangster” movie with Oscar Isaac, Gal Gadot and Al Pacino. Peacock also has a new Tyler Perry and Jason Blum-produced psychological thriller, “Strung,” that will be streaming on Friday. Chloe Bailey plays a talented violinist who takes a

“Undertone” is a testament to Tuason’s evident lmmaking talent that, with these bare bones, ‘Undertone’ swells into a gripping and unsettling experience.”

job as a music tutor for a prestigious family in the Malcolm D. Lee-directed pic.

MUSIC TO STREAM

It’s not as good as catching Simon on the singer-songwriter’s “A Quiet Celebration Tour,” but it is the next best thing.

On Friday, fans can enjoy Simon’s brand-new two -hour concert special, “Paul Simon:

The Quiet Celebration Concert,” streaming on Disney+ and Hulu. Expect deep cuts, new arrangements and timeless hits record live at McCaw Hall in Seattle. It’s also a story of triumph — a legendary performer learning the stage again after beginning to experience hearing loss.

The globally popular English rock band Muse returns with “The Wow! Signal,” a new full-length project named after “a powerful 72-second radio burst detected in 1977 originating from the constellation Sagittarius with a bandwidth and intensity that suggested a possible extraterrestrial source,” according to a statement. It’s a tting source of inspiration for the space-y stadium rock band, and an appropriate title for an album full of retro-futuristic synth songs (“Nightshift Superstar”), scienti c vernacular (“Cryogen”) and anthemic guitars (“Unraveling.”)

SERIES TO STREAM

The live-action “Avatar: The Last Airbender” debuts its second season Thursday on Netix. It’s set in a world divided into four nations based on the four elements: earth, water, re and air. A young Avatar named Aang is the only being who can manipulate each of those ele -

Director Ian Tuason poses for a

California.

ments, giving him power that serves him in both everyday life and as protection. In Season 2, Aang is still learning to master his powers.

For most kids, school is out for the summer, and that includes Charlie Brown and the gang. The animated series “Camp Snoopy” returns for Season 2 on Friday on Apple TV. It follows the adventures of Snoopy, a beagle scout (get it?), Charlie and their friends enjoying the summer at Camp Spring Lake.

Just in time to celebrate America’s upcoming 250th birthday, David stars in a new historical sketch comedy series called “Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness. “ Debuting Friday on HBO Max, David plays historical gures alongside guest stars including Jon Hamm, Kathryn Hahn, Vince Vaughn, Bill Hader, Jerry Seinfeld, J.B. Smoove and Isla Fisher. Like David’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” this show is largely improvised and features David’s trademark pessimistic, observational humor. Barack and Michelle Obama’s

“Paul Simon: The Quiet Celebration Concert” lands on Disney+ and Hulu on Friday.

Higher Ground company produces the show.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Fox McCloud saved the day in “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,” but it’s been a long time since the dashing ghter pilot headlined a game. Nintendo is taking advantage of his new-

found celebrity with Star Fox, overhauling his 1997 Nintendo 64 adventure for the Switch 2. The high- ying aerial combat game bounces from planet to planet as players defend the Lylat System from an evil mastermind. You can team up with friends on missions or engage in 4-vs.-4 battles online. Blast o Thursday.

MARTIN MEISSNER / AP PHOTO

Matt Bellamy, left, from Muse gestures to the audience after winning the “Best Rock” award at the European MTV Awards 2022 in Dusseldorf, Germany. The band releases “The Wow! Signal” on Friday.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

portrait to promote the lm “Undertone” in West Hollywood,

EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Solution to last issue’s puzzle

Solution to this issue’s puzzles

Cloudset

The sky o ers a perfect view from the 17th hole of Pinehurst No. 3 late on the evening of June 16.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

8 convicted of terrorism charges in Texas immigration center shooting sentenced to decades in prison

Fort Worth, Texas

A demonstrator who shot and wounded a police o cer during a protest outside a Texas immigration center July 4, 2025, has been sentenced to 100 years in federal prison. Other protesters also accused of having links to antifa were sentenced Tuesday to multiple decades in federal prison. A federal jury in March found the eight defendants guilty of providing material support to terrorists and other charges.

Prosecutors say the eight took part in a demonstration at the Prairieland Detention Center last July 4 in which a police o cer was shot and wounded. The defendants deny any a liation with the far-left anti-fascist organization.

Trump administration announces $17.5B in loans for 10 new large nuclear reactors

Youth curfew to be implemented in Winston-Salem this fall

The ordinance will go into e ect starting Oct. 12

By Ryan Henkel Twin City Herald

WINSTON-SALEM — Win-

ston-Salem is set to enact a citywide curfew for juveniles starting in the fall.

At the Winston-Salem City Council’s June 22 meeting, the council voted to approve a new youth safety ordinance which sets a curfew for those under the age of 18 and unsupervised, restricting them from being out in the city between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

The ordinance was brought forth by the Winston-Salem Police Department.

According to Lt. Joel Morissette, department data showed that around 60% of incidents from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. involved juveniles, but that number

“The purpose of this ordinance is to protect juveniles from victimization and exposure to criminal activity, reinforce and support parental guidance and responsibility and promote public safety and security for both juveniles and adults.”

Lt. Joel Morissette, Winston-Salem

grew to 73% during overnight hours.

“The purpose of this ordinance is to protect juveniles from victimization and exposure to criminal activity, reinforce and support parental guidance and responsibility, and promote public safety and security for both juveniles and adults,” Morissette said.

Violations of the ordinance could result in juveniles being adjudicated delinquents and adults charged with violating the ordinance (whether

Police Department

a parent/guardian who knowingly allows their child out or someone such as a business owner who aids and abets a juvenile) could face a misdemeanor, ne and mandatory court appearance. The ordinance does allow for interstate travel, travel to or from a place of employment or a school, government, religious or similar function, responding to an emergency and similar exceptions. The Winston-Salem Police Department highlighted sever-

al incidents involving juveniles during proposed late-night hours in the last two years, citing things such as breaking and entering, ghts, shootings, vandalism, car crashes, robberies, takeovers and more.

“While these incidents do not represent a vast majority of the behavior of our youth, they do illustrate a concerning trend that has impacted public safety, strained law enforcement resources and placed young people at an increased risk of victimization and harm,” Morissette said.

The ordinance is set to go into e ect Oct. 12, which is after the Carolina Classic Fair.

The council passed the ordinance 5-3, with council members Scott Andree-Bowen, James Taylor and Regina Hall voting against it.

“I don’t think it’s the government’s job to be the parent for everyone,” Andree-Bowen said.

Patrols, nanobubbles on display at Re ecting Pool as Trump looks for renovation

do-over

The Trump administration is providing $17.5 billion to speed the development of 10 new large nuclear reactors to meet the skyrocketing power demand from massive data centers. The Energy Department announced the loans Tuesday. Energy Secretary Chris Wright cited “tremendous interest” among developers of data centers, called hyperscalers, who would buy the power, as well as utilities and energy companies. $2.00

The president claimed vandals have damaged the pool’s new coating as authorities make multiple arrests

By Nathan Ellgren and Bill Barrow The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — National Guard members and U.S. Park Police patrolled the deck around the Lincoln Memorial Re ecting Pool on Monday as President Donald Trump’s administration faces a self-imposed deadline to x a botched renovation before the

nation’s 250th anniversary celebration.

The patrols came two days after Trump said authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he insisted were responsible for damage to the peeling coating after an algae bloom occurred. The liner was installed as part of his $14 million-plus project.

The president has con rmed the problems most likely require draining the pool again for liner repairs, and he promised a quick x. Without offering substantiation, he also said vandals dumped fertilizer in the pool and slashed

See POOL, page A2

DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

JON ELSWICK / AP PHOTO

A piece of the blue coating oats among algae at the Lincoln Memorial Re ecting Pool on Sunday on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

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North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365)

Trip Ho end, Publisher Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers

Cory Lavalette, Senior Editor

Jordan Golson, Local News Editor

Shawn Krest, Sports Editor

Dan Reeves, Features Editor

Ryan Henkel, Reporter PJ Ward-Brown, Photographer

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Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon THURSDAY

Watch Duty, re tracking app used by millions, expands to help monitor dangerous oods

The nonpro t’s volunteer reporters consolidate emergency information from multiple sources faster than o cial channels

By Gabriela Aoun Angueira The Associated Press

WHEN A FIRE broke out a few miles from his Altadena, California, home the evening of Jan. 7, 2025, Matt Blea and his family needed to make a crucial decision: Should they stay home or evacuate?

A friend who did mountain rescue told Blea to download a free app called Watch Duty. On the app, he could see the re’s perimeter, track evacuation orders and read updates about the emergency response.

“It in uenced me to leave the home sooner than later,” said Blea, who left with his wife and son that evening before the Eaton Fire destroyed their home.

Blea was one of more than 2.5 million people who used Watch Duty to track res burning across Los Angeles County that week. The information was collected, vetted and disseminated by about two dozen Watch Duty sta and more than 100 volunteers who monitored emergency radio tra c, aircraft reports and local agency communications.

The service proved vital, said David Hertz, a Malibu resident and captain of his community’s re brigade, especially when some areas received little-to-no warning about the Eaton and Palisades res that killed 31 people. “It’s like a democratization of data that empowers people.”

This month, Watch Duty began helping people track another deadly and destructive climate hazard: ooding.

The expansion comes as peak ash ood season begins in the U.S. and nearly one year after last July’s deadly Texas oods that killed more than 130 people, prompting outcry over why Texas Hill Country residents and visitors didn’t receive better communication about the impending danger.

“This is painful that this keeps happening,” said John Mills, CEO and co-founder of the donor-supported nonprofit behind the app. “We’re not spreading enough information fast enough on as many channels as humanly possible.”

Mills built app after his own close calls

the process to issue a specific warning or evacuation order can get tangled in bureaucracy and often depends on humans making di cult decisions under pressure.

Often the information people need to understand their risk is out there, Mills said, but it is hard to nd and use.

“The systems are really struggling to meet people where they are,” he said.

On re days, Mills found himself relying on volunteer radio operators who monitored scanners during emergencies and posted updates on social media. The posts helped, but social media had downsides — including how misinformation and unrelated content could drown out life-or-death updates.

A software engineer and entrepreneur, Mills recruited some of those volunteers and fellow engineers to build an answer. He made Watch Duty a nonpro t, which has helped build trust with its more than 20 million users. It received nearly $6 million in grants and donations in 2025.

Watch Duty puts emergency information in one place

“It’s like a democratization of data that empowers people.”

one place, in plain language, and it’s going to wake you up if you’re asleep.”

Watch Duty can sometimes push out information faster than local agencies in part because its reporters have only one role to ll, said Curran, a retired re ghter. “Our only responsibility is to watch and listen. We’re not in charge of the incident.”

The nonpro t took on ooding next because of its widespread impact.

“We are seeing crazy rainfall in places that it’s not normal for them,” said Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. Fire Administrator under President Joe Biden and longtime data scientist who is now a Watch Duty board member. “Maybe it’s never happened before, but it’s happening now, so you need to be aware.”

Preparation, redundancy enhance safety

Despite Watch Duty’s explosive growth, a phone app can’t solve all the challenges with informing the public during emergencies.

“I love seeing products like this come out, but one thing we know to be true in the Texas oods, is a warning is only as good as the knowledge to do something about it,” said Chad Berginnis, executive director of the Association of State Floodplain Managers.

The ASFPM recommends knowing how to reach an evacuation zone and not just having an emergency plan, but practicing it. “One of the massive failures is not knowing what to do,” said Berginnis.

The national infrastructure for monitoring weather and alerting the public is also at risk from past and proposed funding cuts to federal agencies and local emergency warning systems. “At the end of the day, if you want eyes and ears out there, you’ve got to pay for it,” said Berginnis. Mills stressed Watch Duty is not meant to replace the work of weather and emergency agencies.

Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: forsythcommunity@ northstatejournal.com

Mills founded Watch Duty in 2021 after not receiving ofcial alerts or evacuation instructions when a re burned near his Northern California home.

It’s a problem seen in many recent disasters. While the U.S. has systems for sending alerts by text, radio and other means,

POOL from page A1

the coating with a box cutter. But the timeline was not clear Monday, with the White House saying damaged areas are still being assessed. Contractors and federal workers in recent days have been using chemicals and ozone nanobubbles to combat the algae. Trump pitched the original improvements as intended to clean, beautify and reinforce an iconic site that he said had become dilapidated and dirty because of previous presidents’ neglect. Algae has plagued the pool for a century, and Trump insisted a newly installed “American ag blue” coating, which he selected himself, would turn the pool into a gleaming expanse along the National Mall. Yet within weeks of Trump declaring the rehabilitation completed in time for Independence Day, the water was plagued by a vivid green algae

Watch Duty now has about 300 volunteer “reporters” who collate and vet information from radio scanners, cameras, satellites, user-generated content and public announcements. Information is available in ve languages and pushed out through maps, text feeds, and push noti cations that can sound even when phones are silenced.

“You’re not going to have to go to multiple other entities, to the weather service, emergency management website, county website,” said Watch Duty meteorologist Pete Curran. “It’s in

bloom that clouded the pool’s coating. A piece of liner, about 4 square feet, was observed Friday partially oating in the pool. The Associated Press saw additional pieces in the water Monday.

Via social media, the president has blamed the problems on “SICK, DERANGED PEOPLE!” He asserted Monday on Truth Social that intentional damages include a “300 foot long gash” and that “chemicals have been illegally placed in the water.” A day earlier, Trump posted, “Work will begin immediately on xing the seriously vandalized Re ecting Pool.”

At an executive order signing Monday, the president said ve people had been arrested and ve more were under suspicion, and he de ected blame for the pool’s maintenance issues.

“I can’t help it if somebody goes in with a knife and starts hacking it up,” he said.

The app pulls weather modeling and other data from the National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and U.S. Geological Survey. Users can view NWS ood warnings and watches, river gauge levels, and notices of possible dam or levee failures.

Users can also better understand their risk ahead of time. They can see whether they’re in a FEMA-designated ood area, or what levels on a river gauge would indicate danger, and customize noti cations to be alerted if a gauge reached a certain height.

He has not backed up those claims, and even if anyone has deliberately peeled or cut the lining, that would not explain the algae bloom that appeared more intensely than what typically occurred before the renovation.

Images showing that Trump’s project apparently back red boomeranged across social media last week, drawing crowds of onlookers eager to see the e ects themselves. An unknown number ended up being detained by federal authorities.

One man arrested was David Hearn, 67, of Bethesda, Maryland. A former Olympic canoe racer, Hearn told The Associated Press that he reached into the pool because he wanted to examine the peeling new coating. He said he brie y touched a chunk that was still attached to the side of the pool, then let go shortly after a park worker told him to. Hearn said he was then detained by Nation-

“We need National Weather Service, we need re service, we need all this infrastructure to operate,” he said, adding users should still enroll in their local alerting system.

And of course, a phone app is only helpful to those who download it, and who have cell coverage to use it.

“You have to have redundancy,” said Berginnis, adding that an inexpensive NOAA weather radio can ll in when other systems fail. “Sometimes we get so focused on tech, we forget the easy stu .”

al Guard troops and Park Police for ve hours before being released Friday night.

“I’m a curious citizen,” Hearn said in a telephone interview. “I reached down to see what it felt like. It was very rubbery.”

The Park Police did not immediately respond Monday to AP’s questions about how many arrests were made and whether any charges had been led. Washington’s Metropolitan Police Department said Monday that the agency is not involved.

The White House said Monday that any arrests have been made only by the U.S. Park Police.

It was not immediately apparent what criminal or civil violation someone might commit reaching into the pool. Trump, in one of his Truth Social posts, cited laws against defacing monuments as grounds for imprisoning anyone harming the pool.

ETHAN SWOPE / AP PHOTO

People wade through a recreational vehicle park ooded by a king tide on Jan. 3 near Corte Madera in Marin County, California.

David Hertz, Malibu re brigade captain

THE CONVERSATION

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

VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH

Hillary is right

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president.

IN A NEW INTERVIEW this week, Hillary Clinton identi ed the key decision that resulted in President Donald Trump’s election in 2024. It all boiled down, in her view, to a “terrible miscalculation” — former President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s decision to run for reelection. Biden made a “terrible mistake for himself, his legacy and for the country” in deciding to seek reelection at the age of 81. Had he decided to “pass the torch” and the Democratic Party had held a competitive nomination process, “whoever emerged from that contest — whether it was the vice president, or a governor, or a senator or anybody else — would have beaten Donald Trump.” Or, I would add, they would have had a better chance than Biden did. Joe and Jill Biden clearly live in a state of denial with respect to Joe’s unpopularity. In some respects, it’s understandable: He wasn’t a bad president and he left the country in better shape than it is now. So why shouldn’t Jill think that even though she was afraid her husband was having a stroke during the debate with Trump, he should stay in the race and if he had, they both seem to believe, he would have beaten Trump. It’s delusional thinking that must have

been reinforced by the deep-seated loyalty of those who had been around him for so long. Sadly, the cost of that delusional thinking is being borne around the world.

The Democratic Party is still struggling to gure out what went wrong. The uno cial o cial autopsy report, which the Party commissioned and then disowned, studiously avoided any criticism of Biden’s decision to seek reelection, which cast doubt on the rest of the report.

Of course, the question remains: Was Kamala Harris the right candidate? That’s the one that even Clinton avoided, pointing out that Harris would have been a stronger candidate if she’d emerged from a competitive process. But would she have? Emerged from a competitive process, that is. Harris was the vice president for an unpopular president. She was caught between defending the indefensible and attacking her own administration. She never gured out how to walk that line in the general election and there’s no reason to think it would have been easier in the primaries.

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president. They got

Not following the example of President James K. Polk

What if you have been clearly winning a war, by any military de nition, and yet the other side doesn’t surrender?

A PRESIDENT orders the onset of hostilities — war — without authorization of Congress and without much in the way of making a case with the public. His troops win important victories and decapitate large parts of the government of the enemy. But in the enemy capital, no one surrenders or will even negotiate seriously.

That leaves the president with the unhappy choice of launching a new military attack on the central focus of the enemy, one riskier and less certain of success than those before, or of declaring an incomplete victory, well short of his essential objective, and just getting the heck out of there.

One president in American history chose the risky rst option and, despite missteps along the way, secured major gains for the country, even if he ultimately fell short of the broader goals that emerged during the con ict. A more recent president has chosen the second option, though the results are still unclear.

Both presidents faced this basic problem: What if you have been clearly winning a war, by any military de nition, and yet the other side doesn’t surrender? Even worse, what if it’s unclear just who is making decisions on the other side and what their goal is?

At this point, it should be clear who one of the presidents is and which power he has chosen to attack and back o : President Donald Trump and the regime of Iran. The other is James Knox Polk, who served as speaker of the House in the 1830s and governor of Tennessee in the 1840s.

Polk pledged to serve just one term. He told historian and Cabinet member George Bancroft that he would pursue just four goals: set up an independent treasury, lower tari s, take uni ed control of the Oregon Territory and take possession of California.

He succeeded at all four in just four years. But not without di culty and controversy.

The treasury and the lower tari s he squeezed out of a Congress with a majority of his fellow

Democrats. Oregon he got after splitting the territory with Britain (which got British Columbia). For California, however, he had to go to war.

There was then some dispute about the borders of recently annexed Texas. Polk ordered Gen. Zachary Taylor to lead troops across the Nueces River to the Rio Grande, claimed by Mexico. Mexican troops attacked Taylor’s Americans.

With American bloodshed on American soil, Polk called on Congress to declare war. Although one-third of members had qualms, they voted for war with Mexico. Taylor then proceeded to beat Mexican troops in multiple battles near the border. But in the capital of Mexico City, or among o -and-on leader Santa Anna’s entourage, no one was negotiating. The great mass of Mexicans lived far south of the U.S. border and weren’t inclined to surrender.

What could Polk, eager to secure rights to California, do? In e ect, he started a second war, ordering Gen. Win eld Scott to land troops at Veracruz and proceed across 11,000-foot mountains, near the route of Cortes three centuries before, to reach Mexico City. It worked. In a feat of generalship praised by the aged Duke of Wellington, Scott beat the elusive Santa Anna, got his successor to surrender, and helped Nicholas Trist negotiate a treaty netting one-third of Mexican territory (but only 90,000 of its citizens). Polk, greedy for more land as Scott headed inland, wanted more and red Trist, but when presented with his treaty, he sent it to the Senate, which quickly rati ed it.

Trump’s actions were driven more by anger over Iran’s 1979 seizure of U.S. diplomats than by any goal as speci c as Polk’s. Still, the joint U.S.-Israel attacks during the June 2025 12-day war seriously degraded Iran’s nuclear program and set it back.

His attacks this year, starting in February, further degraded Iran’s nuclear program and, with pinpoint accuracy, killed the supreme leader

to see them both, up close. Harris ran a better campaign than she gets credit for. She did put her best foot forward. She was well- nanced. Experienced strategists surrounded her. She did not use a private email server, as Clinton did. She did not have investigators nipping at her heels, the way Clinton did. It was, considering everything, a smooth run. She just didn’t win. I have yet to hear any explanation for why she’s a stronger candidate today than she was in 2024, and she would need to be a stronger candidate to defeat a Marco Rubio, for instance. Harris is leading in most, although not all, of the early polls, but that is a matter of name recognition; perhaps more signi cant is the fact that a majority of Democrats, at this stage, favor candidates other than Harris. And Harris has done almost nothing since the election to distinguish herself as the Party’s leader.

Soon enough, we will be hearing more, not only from Gavin Newsom, who is already out there (and being investigated for it), but from Pritzker and Shapiro and Buttigieg, not to mention Jon Osso , Ro Khanna and AOC. The nomination process is awed in many ways, but at least it’s a test, one that Harris will be forced to pass this time.

Susan Estrich is a lawyer, legal scholar, and political commentator.

(Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

and dozens of subordinates. He in icted great damage on Iran’s weaponry and its economy.

But the mullahs in Tehran, like the leaders in Mexico City, wouldn’t surrender, and they blocked oil tankers from transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Trump was left with two of his goals — higher tari s and zeroing out Iran’s nukes — seeming to produce politically disastrous high in ation.

So Trump decided not to follow the path of Polk. Amid occasional military attacks, he sought a “deal” with a regime that has paraded its hatred of America for 47 years and has made dozens of promises it has no intention of keeping.

In its latest iteration, the administration has been sluggish in revealing the details. The U.S. will be suspending military action and allowing Iran to freely sell oil, e ectively paying the regime billions. In return, Iran promises to negotiate about its nuclear program and to allow tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, if they pay tolls.

Not much better, you might say, than the “deal” former President Barack Obama negotiated with Iran in 2015, which Trump criticized bitterly then but doesn’t mention so much now. Vice President JD Vance says that Iranian leaders have decided they shouldn’t oppose “the Great Satan” as they have for 47 years, though that would be less incredible (though not very credible) coming from the Iranians themselves.

Perhaps Trump believes he can intimidate Iran’s evil leaders not to do things he doesn’t want, the way he has apparently intimidated Venezuela’s not-so-savory leaders. But it’s not clear that such intimidation is working optimally in the geographically closer, culturally more similar Caribbean, and, inevitably, heading into the second half of his last term, Trump’s ire is a waning asset. Neither his vice president nor any possible Democratic successor is likely to share it.

“If you set out to take Vienna, take Vienna,” Napoleon is supposed to have said. Setting out to take Tehran may or may not have been a mistake. Setting out to take Tehran and then not taking it almost clearly is.

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)

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

Wine brands chase Gen Z with playful tie-ins to Shark Week, NASCAR, more

Younger drinkers are forcing wine to trade stu ness for sass, a ordability and pop culture moments

By J.M. Hirsch The Associated Press

BOSTON — Which wine pairs well with Shark Week? Does a pinot noir have enough acidity to cut through the grime of a Tough Mudder race? Is a big, brassy cabernet bold enough of a qua for a night of naming dead rodents after an ex?

And is a wine named SEX too provocative or not provocative enough?

Absurd as they may sound, these are the questions haunting wine marketers grappling with slumping sales and increasingly elusive drinkers.

How consumers — especially younger drinkers — answer them will determine whether an industry long de ned by fuddy-duddy pretense can nd its footing in 2026 and beyond.

“That self-important way that wine can refer to itself — we’re really trying to tip that on its head,” said Helen Kurtz, chief of marketing for The Wine Group, which hopes that o erings such as its easy-drinking Cupcake Vineyards wines can attract a generation that came of age on Frappuccinos and gas station BuzzBallz.

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding,” she said.

By which she means partnering the company’s MD 20/20 (yes, it’s a wine) with World Wrestling Entertainment matches (“Mad Dog Enters the Ring”), and launching the aptly named Fuel by Franzia line of boxed wine beverages for NASCAR (“Full Throttle Flavor”).

Alcohol consumption has dropped

It’s a fresh lesson on the importance of nding your customer rather than hoping they nd you. Because almost across the board, alcohol consumption is down, a trend that accelerated post-pandemic. A host of factors is at play, including aging Boomers seeking healthier lifestyles, Gen Z’s gravitation to low- and no-alcohol beverages, and widening availability of alternatives such as marijuana.

Each segment of the alcohol industry — valued at around $560 billion in the U.S. — is responding di erently. Hard liquor, for example, has found a rare growth category in ready-to-drink canned cocktails. But the wine industry faces its own constellation of challenges, many of its own making.

For anyone new to wine particularly much-coveted 20-somethings — nding one’s

way can be daunting, something of a Château du Stu y e ect.

“You’ve got a bunch of things, what you might call friction points with wine that are particularly salient to younger consumers,” including cost and drinkability, said Christian Miller, director of research for the Wine Market Council.

A pretentious image keeps some customers away

Wine, from the labels to the language used to describe it, historically has leaned pricy and pretentious (looking at

you, “notes of asphalt and barnyard”). Wine trends also have favored boozy and bracing styles, a hard sell for folks used to sipping hard seltzers at the club.

Fewer than a third of Gen Z households own a corkscrew, according to a trends report by the British household products company Lakeland. Even simply trying a wine comes with a gatekeeper: Hard liquor is easy to sample at a bar or as single-shot nips; most wine requires a full-bottle commitment.

A cadre of wineries has begun pushing the bounds of wine culture by ditching the fussy façade in favor of a sassy

vibe and accessible language.

Price matters too (the sweet spot seems to be the $8 to $20 a bottle range), but not nearly so much as the message.

It’s about using contemporary communication to pitch “something that’s been made for centuries,” said Charles Smith, founder of House of Smith, the company behind younger, shopper-friendly brands such as Kung Fu Girl Riesling and SEX Rosé. “My mantra is always to communicate the language of wine to everyone because not everyone speaks wine. The wine should be a re ection of the consumer who is going to buy it.”

Supreme Court reinstates murder conviction in case

missing 1970s New York City boy

The 6-3 decision rejects an appeals court’s narrow basis for overturning the original conviction

By Mark Sherman The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Supreme Court on Monday reinstated a murder conviction in the 1979 disappearance of 6-year-old Etan Patz.

The justices, by a 6-3 vote, granted an appeal from New York prosecutors who had urged them to undo a federal appeals court decision that overturned the verdict. The three liberal justices dissented. Prosecutors had been preparing to try the man, Pedro Hernandez, for a third time. His rst trial ended in a mistrial. The unanimous panel of the

U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit reversed Hernandez’s murder and kidnapping conviction in the second trial because of how the judge had answered a question from jurors.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg had called the basis for overturning the conviction “a slender reed” that essentially ignored a ve-month-long trial with 66 witnesses.

The justices agreed, in an un-

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding.”

Helen Kurtz, The Wine Group chief of marketing

Can tie-ins to pop culture make wine more relatable?

Bogle Family Wine Collection has leaned in with its Juggernaut Wines. Adorned with almost graphically violent labels showcasing alpha predators — a shark, a grizzly, an orca, a lion and some sort of particularly angry bird of prey — the bottles are a far cry from the placid villas and languorous ladies plastered across so many wines.

The other side of it is getting those bottles into spaces not traditionally associated with wine, said Jessica LaBounty, the company’s marketing director. For two years, Juggernaut has announced “Adventure awaits” as it sponsored the grueling Tough Mudder races. They’ve also done placements at zoos that host nights where people can name dead rodents and insects after former partners and feed them to the animals. Cheers…?

And this year, it’s Discovery network’s Shark Week. Juggernaut’s chardonnay label sports an especially snappish great white and “just the right amount of bite.”

“The viewer base of Shark Week lines up really, really nicely with who we know our consumer to be,” LaBounty said. “It’s another way to meet them where they are already versus kind of asking them to come to us.”

Learning to speak Gen Z is key

The goal is to bridge a generational divide in which wine got lost. Younger drinkers don’t and won’t talk about wine the way older drinkers do. To point, there’s a clever social media meme about a Millennial marketing team pitching wine vs. a Gen Z social media team. The Millennial e ort goes on at length about terroir and full-bodied avors. Gen Z’s pitch? “it’s giving… yummy”.

Vibe is everything for Bread & Butter Wines, with the tagline, “Don’t overthink it.” As in, pair their red blend with a candy charcuterie board. Or their pinot noir with a Thanksgiving leftovers sandwich. Want fries with that? Try their prosecco.

“The No. 1 goal is to disrupt the shelf because it is so crowded,” said Caitlin Ward, brand and digital marketing director. “Sassiness is a way to do that.”

J.M. Hirsch is a longtime food writer who was food editor of The Associated Press for nearly a decade until 2016.

signed opinion, that federal courts should not second-guess state courts under a 1996 federal law that was intended to reduce federal court oversight of state criminal trials.

“The Second Circuit exceeded its authority in holding that Hernandez is entitled to relief,” the court wrote, referring to the New York-based appeals court, Hernandez, 64, has been serving a sentence of 25 years to life in prison.

Hernandez admitted to the crime under police questioning, but his lawyers say he confessed falsely because of a mental illness that sometimes made him hallucinate. They emphasized that the admission came after police queried him for about seven hours before reading him his rights and recording the interview. Hernandez then repeated his confession on tape, at least twice.

Patz vanished while walking to his downtown Manhattan school bus stop on May 25, 1979. Hernandez worked at a nearby convenience shop at the time, but the Maple Shade, New Jersey, resident didn’t become a suspect until 2012. Patz was among the rst missing children ever to appear on milk cartons, and the anniversary of his disappearance became National Missing Children’s Day.

Hernandez already has been tried twice. A jury deadlocked in 2015, and then a di erent panel of jurors convicted him at a 2017 retrial.

During deliberations, the 2017 jurors asked a complicated question: If they decided Hernandez didn’t confess voluntarily when he hadn’t been read his rights yet, must they disregard his other confessions? The then-judge responded simply, “the answer is no.” The jury went on to convict. In overturning that verdict, the appeals court said the jury’s question should have gotten a more fulsome answer, including the possibility of discounting all the confessions.

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of pinot noir wines, from left, Josh Cellars Reserve, Juggernaut and Chloe, sit on shelves at a grocery store in Concord, New Hampshire, on June 8.

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of California red wines from Line 39, from left, Cupcake Vineyards and Snoop Dogg’s 19 Crimes Cali Red, are displayed on a Concord, New Hampshire, grocery store shelf.

MARIAM ZUHAIB / AP PHOTO

The U.S. Supreme Court reinstated the conviction of Pedro Hernandez in the 1979 disappearance of Etan Patz.

Forsyth SPORTS

Heim outduels Reddick for rst NASCAR Cup win at inaugural San Diego race

Michael Jordan’s 23XI drivers took the top two spots

The Associated Press

CORONADO, Calif. — Corey Heim slammed into the wall twice while destroying his tires during the rst few runs in the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race at Naval Base Coronado.

It was no problem for Heim, whose No. 67 Toyota inexplicably kept getting faster on the way to his rst career Cup Series victory in only his 13th start.

The 23-year-old part-time driver from Marietta, Georgia, took a deep breath before the second half of the race and reminded himself that he had as much experience as the veterans on the 16-turn, 3.4-mile street course on Coronado Island, just south of downtown San Diego.

“I’m speechless,” Heim said.

“Maybe I knocked some good into the car. I have no idea. I had high expectations coming into this race. I just reset and went after it.”

Heim, the 2024 truck series champion who will move full time into Cup next season with 23XI Racing, led the nal three laps after snatching rst from teammate Tyler Reddick.

“I was able to stick with him, and ve to go came, and it was time to put some pressure on him and see if I could get him to make a mistake,” Heim said. “Sure enough, he did.”

Bubba Wallace nished second to deliver a 1-2 nish for 23XI Racing, the team co-owned by Denny Hamlin and NBA great Michael Jordan. Reddick su ered a at tire in the closing laps and fell to 25th, cutting his lead in the standings to eight points over Hamlin.

“To even have a shot at it at the

end was really nice,” said Reddick, who started from the rear after unapproved adjustments to his No. 45 Toyota. “First and foremost, congratulations to Corey. I thought I was going to be able to hold him o there. It denitely stings. Really needed a good points day. Had another really bad one, so we’ll try and scrape together.”

Heim became the third rst-time winner in Cup this season, joining Ty Gibbs (Bristol) and Carson Hocevar (Talladega).

“Just crazy,” Heim said. “I hope I don’t wake up from this dream.”

His peers already think Heim’s for real.

“Awesome job by Corey Heim,” two-time Cup champion Kyle Larson said after nishing third. “That’s really cool. He’s a super talented race car driver, and it’s neat to see somebody get their rst win, especially at a challenging track like this.”

Zane Smith and AJ Allmendinger rounded out the top ve. Hamlin, the driver-owner

who had won the past three races for Joe Gibbs Racing, nished 14th.

SVG stunner

Shane van Gisbergen nished 38th in his bid for an eighth road or street course victory (which will make him the active leader among Cup drivers).

After starting from the pole position, van Gisbergen was caught in a crash that started when Trackhouse Racing teammate Connor Zilisch and Austin Hill collided while battling for the lead on a Lap 32 restart. The nine-car incident caused a nine-minute red ag for wall repairs.

“I felt like I was giving Austin space, and the next thing, I was in the wall,” said Zilisch, who led the rst eight laps of his Cup career in the highlight of a miserable rookie season. “Really unfortunate. I hate to end both days for both Shane and I. We had a really fast car today. I had a lot of fun. I really enjoyed just getting to race out front and lead laps.”

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Charles Azevedo

Forsyth County Special Olympics

Charles Azevedo is a member of the Forsyth County Special Olympics team. The county sent a contingent of athletes to the Raleigh area for the Special Olympics of North Carolina Summer Games, and several earned medals in a variety of events. Charles competed in several events in Athletics (track and eld). He won gold in the 50-meter walk and added silvers in both the 25-meter walk and the softball throw.

Scotland fans descend on Boston for World Cup; Beantown’s bars struggling to keep up

The Tartan Army has emerged as one of the stars of World Cup 2026

By Kyle Hightower

The Associated Press

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. —

Ever since Scotland fans learned they’d begin the country’s ninth World Cup appearance in Boston, plans were being made for a party.

“I knew there was going to be a tsunami of Tartan Army (Scotland fans),” said Jason Waddleton, a Scotland native and owner of The Haven, a Scottish restaurant and bar in Boston’s Jamaica Plain neighborhood since 2010.

He was right.

First, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey agreed to temporarily extend bar and restaurant hours during the World Cup.

Next came thousands of Scots — one estimate is as high as 50,000 — descending on the Boston area, including nearby Providence, Rhode Island, which has become a home base for many of them over the past few weeks.

Then it was the Tartan Army marching through Boston’s streets following the country’s opening win over Haiti last week — taking over the city’s famed Fenway Park alongside Red Sox Nation after the team dubbed it “Scottish Heritage Celebration Night.”

And the taps have been running nonstop.

World Cup fans in Boston, especially the Scots, have put a serious strain on the beer supply in a city that is accustomed to big drinking holidays in St. Patrick’s Day and the Fourth of July.

The Haven, which has long

served Scotland’s top-selling beer, Tennent’s Lager, has gone from four kegs a week to ordering 50 just for this week. Other bars have sold out of Tennent’s and have tripled their orders to make sure it doesn’t happen again. Sam Adams said its Boston taproom ran out of their famed Samuel Adams Boston Lager last weekend after Scottish fans descended on the city.

“We’ve basically blown through our own allocation. We still have it, and we’ll get more in on Monday,” Waddleton said. The celebratory atmosphere intensi ed Friday as Scotland prepared to play its second World Cup match of the tournament outside Boston.

“They know how to party, how

to make friends and in uence people,” Waddleton said of the Scots.

Scots ll pubs in the Boston area, challenging beer reserves One of the most sought-after beverages in Boston pubs over the last week is Tennent’s Lager.

Once only available at The Haven, before the tournament started Tennent’s made deals and distributed kegs of its product to 80 bars in Boston and surrounding areas.

Samantha Crawford, the international marketing manager for Tennent’s, said they started preparing to distribute their product to the U.S. as soon as Scotland quali ed for the the World Cup in November. They’ve also sent supplies to Miami

bars ahead of Scotland’s match against Brazil next week.

“It’s been a long time in the making. The next day we got to work,” she said of the preparations to make sure the beer is stocked in the U.S. She said the beer is ingrained in the sports culture in Scotland.

Many area bars, restaurants caught by surprise

Mivan Spencer, owner of Ca e Dello Sport in Boston’s North End, said he is used to handling large crowds for major soccer tournaments but has been surprised by the amount of business he’s seen during the World Cup.

“After the rst weekend of

“They know how to party, how to make friends and in uence people.”

Jason Waddleton, owner of Scottish bar in Boston

matches I de nitely ran out of almost everything,” Spencer said.

“Luckily I have a couple other restaurants I borrowed product from to get me through.”

The rst thing he sold out of was Tennent’s, before quickly selling out of Peroni.

Spencer said he’s since tripled his usual alcohol order for this week, saying it’s so “I don’t run out of a single thing.”

Over at High Street Place, a food hall in downtown Boston, beverage supplies that were expected to last a week were consumed in four days, said Lauren Johnson, a senior marketplace manager at the venue.

“Fortunately, we have great partners, and our distributors were able to pivot quickly and increase subsequent orders to keep pace with demand seamlessly,” she said.

Tapping in — and out — of iconic Sam Adams

Sam Adams said its Boston taproom ran out of their famed Samuel Adams Boston Lager last weekend. From last Thursday to Sunday, the Boston-based brewer said the Tartan Army drank four times as much Boston Lager as the establishment typically sells during a four-day holiday stretch like the Fourth of July.

To date, Sam Adams has sold more than 4,000 pints of Boston Lager, resulting in about 90 empty kegs, said Devon Sage, a Sam Adams spokesperson.

“We’ve had to schedule four ‘emergency deliveries’ to the Taproom,” Sage wrote in an email.

DENIS POROY / AP PHOTO

Cory Heim celebrates in Victory Lane after winning Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Coronado, California.

MARTIN MEISSNER / AP PHOTO

Scottish fans drink and sing at a pub in Boston ahead of the World Cup match against Haiti.

SIDELINE REPORT

NBA Sweeney takes over in Orlando, says Magic convinced him t was right Orlando, Fla.

Sean Sweeney landed interviews for more than a few NBA head coaching vacancies over the last few years, and many of them seemed the same. Talking to Orlando, he said, was di erent. Sweeney was introduced last Thursday as the new coach of the Magic, which was the obvious proof that he won them over by his answers during the interview process. Turns out, the Magic won him over with their questions as well.

MLB Ohtani, in Instagram post, announces second child

Los Angeles Shohei Ohtani is a father again. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar has shared the news on his Instagram account. He and his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, expressed joy over the safe birth and thanked supporters.

A photo of tiny feet and a blue blanket suggest he has a son to go with his daughter, who was born in April 2025. Ohtani missed last Friday’s game when the team placed him on paternity leave. Ohtani was back in the lineup in the leado spot for Saturday’s game.

SWIMMING

Douglass breaks women’s 50-meter freestyle world record in 23.59 Indianapolis Kate Douglass has broken the world record in the women’s 50-meter freestyle at the Tyr Pro Swim Series meet in Indianapolis. She won the nal in 23.59 seconds, bettering Sarah Sjostrom’s mark of 23.61 set in July 2023. Sjostrom had held the seven fastest times in history. Gretchen Walsh was second in 23.78, making her the fourth-fastest performer ever. Anna Moesch nished third in 24.30. Douglass says her time is faster than she ever expected.

NHL

Leafs acquire Raddysh from Lightning, sign him to 8-year contract

The Toronto Maple Leafs signed defenseman Darren Raddysh to an eight-year contract after acquiring his rights in a trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Raddysh’s contract is reportedly worth $68 million. The 30-year-old is coming o setting career highs with 22 goals, 48 assists and 70 points in 73 games with Tampa Bay. He produced the same amount over the previous two seasons combined after becoming a full-time NHL player as recently as 2023.

WORLD CUP

Morocco star Hakimi to stand trial in rape case, French appeals court con rms

A French appeals court con rms that Paris Saint- Germain and Morocco star player Achraf Hakimi will stand trial in a rape case. The defender is currently playing with Morocco at the World Cup. Hakimi denied any wrongdoing after facing preliminary charges of rape in March 2023.

A 24-year-old woman accused him of raping her at his home in a Paris suburb. The Versailles court’s decision was released just hours before Morocco takes on Scotland at the World Cup. A trial date has not been announced.

Report: Antetokounmpo getting traded to Heat in blockbuster deal

The

two-time

MVP will get to play for a contender

By Tim Reynolds The Associated Press

MIAMI — Giannis Antetokounmpo wants more championships. So do the Miami Heat. Their interests are o cially aligned — and the Heat nally have another superstar.

Ending a marathon watch for the next great Miami get, the Heat reportedly landed Antetokounmpo — a two -time NBA MVP and 10-time All- Star — from the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for a massive haul of players and draft picks.

The terms: Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis are heading to Miami for Wisconsin native Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kel’el Ware and Kasparas Jakucionis.

Milwaukee also gets the No. 13 selection in this year’s draft, along with a rst-round pick swap in 2030, rst-round picks in 2031 and 2033 and a second-rounder in 2033. At 31, the Heat clearly believe Antetokounmpo still has many good years left — and it’s generally presumed that by making this deal they’ll give the Greek superstar a massive extension later this year.

He was a perennial MVP candidate in Milwaukee, getting votes for that award in nine consecutive seasons before 2025-26 when too many missed games left him ineligible.

He has averaged 24.1 points and 9.9 rebounds per game in his career, with 10 consecutive seasons of averaging at least 22.9 points — with three years in there of averaging more than 30 points per game.

Only seven active players have more points in their careers than Antetokounmpo.

Antetokounmpo had been mentioned in trade talks countless times in recent years, with the Bucks always insisting they had no interest in trading their best player.

But this time, it seemed di erent.

The Bucks, who red Doc Rivers as coach after the season, don’t have a roster that would be considered a championship contender. By trading Antetokounmpo, they can essentially start over with four players (and the Heat were high on all of them) along with draft capital.

“I just think before the draft is a natural time, right, because if Giannis does play somewhere else we’re going to get a lot of assets. ... You’ve got to get it right,” Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam said in May, when the team introduced new coach Taylor Jenkins — who was told that Antetokounmpo may or may not be with the franchise when next season starts.

Antetokounmpo had spoken highly of Miami many times over the years, even when the Heat and Bucks were going head-to-head in the playo s.

“They’re going to play tough and they’re not going to stop playing,” Antetokounmpo said after Milwaukee played Miami

“They’re going to play tough and they’re not going to stop playing. That’s the Miami Heat culture.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo after a March game against the Heat

on March 12. “That’s the Miami Heat culture.”

That would be the penultimate game for Antetokounmpo in a Bucks uniform. He played three nights later against Indiana, then was held out of Milwaukee’s nal 15 games of the season. He landed awkwardly on a dunk in that Indiana game and didn’t play again due to what team o cials had labeled as a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise. Antetokounmpo said he was healthy and wanted to play, a dispute that resulted in an investigation by the league o ce.

Antetokounmpo said com-

ing into the 2025-26 season that he is at the point in his career where he thinks about his legacy, and how more championships are important to him. Told he is already considered an all-time great, he bristled at the notion.

“I’m not there yet,” Antetokounmpo said that day at Bucks training camp.

That’s hard to believe considering his resume. He’s won a championship. He’s been an MVP. He’s been an NBA Finals MVP. He’s a perennial All-Star and All-NBA pick. He’s one of only seven players born somewhere other than the 50 states of the U.S. to have reached the 20,000-point mark. In 2025, he led Greece to its rst EuroBasket medal in 16 years.

“Every basketball player, every athlete, starts a career and they have this quest of what they want to accomplish and what to be remembered for,” Antetokounmpo said in that same training camp interview. “And I think at this point, I’ve accomplished everything that I’ve put my mind to.”

Amateur stars Russell, Koivun grouped in US Open’s

Just 17 and 21 years old, the pair shows great potential

By Brian Mahoney The Associated Press

SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. —

Miles Russell had a long walk to his ball at the end of a long U.S. Open round with Jackson Koivun on Saturday after smashing his tee shot 407 yards on the 18th hole.

“Not bad, not bad,” Russell said afterward with a smile. “I hit that one pretty good.”

Imagine what he might be able to do when he’s all grown up. The 17-year-old Russell and 21-year-old Koivun were paired together in the third round, a grouping that was being referred to during TV coverage as the future of golf.

Already so accomplished before they are even professionals — Russell hasn’t even started college yet — both players understand why such expectations have been placed on them.

“I mean, I’m trying not to think about that,” Koivun said. “Just taking it one day at a time and let my golf game do the talking, but those are great compliments.”

Both players shot 4-over 74, dropping to 7 over for the tournament. Those scores weren’t too bad on a dicult day at windy Shinnecock Hills for any golfer, let alone two that were playing on the weekend for the rst

‘future of

golf’ pairing

“I think we just keep doing what we’re doing, and see where it takes us”

Miles Russell

time in a major championship. It’s expected to be the rst of many times for both.

Koivun is about to turn pro after a dominant college career in which he led Auburn to two national championships in three seasons, becoming the rst freshman since Justin Thomas in 2012 to win the Haskins Award, given to the nation’s top collegiate golfer. He won the Southeastern Conference individual title all three years and has been the

world’s top-ranked amateur. Russell is now the next big thing. The left-hander is ranked No. 1 in the American Junior Golf Association and No. 7 among all amateurs in the world. He is headed to Florida State and will be a teammate with Charlie Woods, Tiger Woods’ son, who carried Russell’s bag when he earned his spot in the U.S. Open through a 36-hole quali er.

“He’s been been in the game for a while and he’s just such a good player,” Koivun said.

The players who didn’t know each other well before this weekend were paired again Sunday. Russell, who played with 54-year-old Padraig Harrington in the rst two rounds, took advantage of a chance to be with someone closer to his age Saturday to get some advice about school.

Like Koivun, he tried to downplay the “future of golf” hype around them.

“I don’t know, that’s kind of crazy,” Russell said. “I mean, I think the main thing is just keep enjoying it because if you’re not enjoying it, you may not have much of a future in it. So, I think we just keep doing what we’re doing, and see where it takes us.

“Golf is a very di cult sport,” he added. “One day you have it and the next day it’s gone, so I think you just have to kind of block it out and just keep doing what you’re doing, and hopefully one day that’s true.” Still, he could tell there was an interest in them, even though they were out early in the morning, long before anyone near the top of the leaderboard.

“At the beginning, we had some good crowds out there,” Russell said. “I think if we might have played a little better, they might have stuck around a little longer, but it was cool.”

Koivun and Russell were two of the ve amateurs who made the cut, a group that was led by 21-year-old Ryder Cowan. Cowan, who will be a senior at Oklahoma, was tied for 11th after 36 holes.

So perhaps the future of golf goes beyond Koivun and Russell.

“Yeah, I mean, amateur golf is in a great spot right now,” Koivun said. “The college kids are de nitely showing o , showing o how good they are, and for ve of us to make it through, it’s quite impressive.”

SETH WENIG / AP PHOTO

Miles Russell and Jackson Koivun walk on the 14th hole during the third round of the U.S. Open.

MARTA LAVANDIER / AP PHOTO

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo dribbles the ball during a game against the Miami Heat.

the stream

Paul Simon, ‘In the Hand of Dante,’

‘Avatar: The Last Airbender,’ Star Fox

British rockers Muse drop “The Wow! Signal”

By Jake Coyle

The Associated Press

A PAUL SIMON concert special and Season 2 of the live-action “Avatar: The Last Airbender” 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: a new Larry David series celebrating American history, the horror lm “Undertone” and the return of Star Fox.

MOVIES TO STREAM

Filmmaker Ian Tuason uses soundscapes to scare audiences in his debut feature “Undertone,” a minimalist auditory horror about a paranormal podcaster that is streaming on HBO Max on Friday. In his review for The Associated Press, lm writer Jake Coyle wrote that “it’s a testament to Tuason’s evident lmmaking talent that, with these bare bones, ‘Undertone’ swells into a gripping and unsettling experience. This is a movie that summons many of its scares with a sudden boost in audio levels, the thunderous tick of a clock or the scream of … a tea kettle. It’s even rated ‘R’ not for bloodcurdling violence or satanic ghouls but, simply, ‘language.’”

John Cena plays a buttoned-up real estate agent whose carefully curated life gets upended when his chaotic “little brother,” played by Eric André, reappears in his life in the new Net ix comedy “Little Brother,” streaming Friday. Michelle Monaghan, Christopher Meloni and Caleb Hearon are all part of the big ensemble cast. Also arriving on Net ix, on Wednesday is Julian Schnabel’s “In the Hand of Dante,” a divisive “literary gangster” movie with Oscar Isaac, Gal Gadot and Al Pacino. Peacock also has a new Tyler Perry and Jason Blum-produced psychological thriller, “Strung,” that will be streaming on Friday. Chloe Bailey plays a talented violinist who takes a

“Undertone” is a testament to Tuason’s evident lmmaking talent that, with these bare bones, ‘Undertone’ swells into a gripping and unsettling experience.”

job as a music tutor for a prestigious family in the Malcolm D. Lee-directed pic.

MUSIC TO STREAM

It’s not as good as catching Simon on the singer-songwriter’s “A Quiet Celebration Tour,” but it is the next best thing.

On Friday, fans can enjoy Simon’s brand-new two -hour concert special, “Paul Simon:

The Quiet Celebration Concert,” streaming on Disney+ and Hulu. Expect deep cuts, new arrangements and timeless hits record live at McCaw Hall in Seattle. It’s also a story of triumph — a legendary performer learning the stage again after beginning to experience hearing loss.

The globally popular English rock band Muse returns with “The Wow! Signal,” a new full-length project named after “a powerful 72-second radio burst detected in 1977 originating from the constellation Sagittarius with a bandwidth and intensity that suggested a possible extraterrestrial source,” according to a statement. It’s a tting source of inspiration for the space-y stadium rock band, and an appropriate title for an album full of retro-futuristic synth songs (“Nightshift Superstar”), scienti c vernacular (“Cryogen”) and anthemic guitars (“Unraveling.”)

SERIES TO STREAM

The live-action “Avatar: The Last Airbender” debuts its second season Thursday on Netix. It’s set in a world divided into four nations based on the four elements: earth, water, re and air. A young Avatar named Aang is the only being who can manipulate each of those ele -

Director Ian Tuason poses for a

California.

ments, giving him power that serves him in both everyday life and as protection. In Season 2, Aang is still learning to master his powers.

For most kids, school is out for the summer, and that includes Charlie Brown and the gang. The animated series “Camp Snoopy” returns for Season 2 on Friday on Apple TV. It follows the adventures of Snoopy, a beagle scout (get it?), Charlie and their friends enjoying the summer at Camp Spring Lake. Just in time to celebrate America’s upcoming 250th birthday, David stars in a new historical sketch comedy series called “Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness. “ Debuting Friday on HBO Max, David plays historical gures alongside guest stars including Jon Hamm, Kathryn Hahn, Vince Vaughn, Bill Hader, Jerry Seinfeld, J.B. Smoove and Isla Fisher. Like David’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” this show is largely improvised and features David’s trademark pessimistic, observational humor. Barack and Michelle Obama’s

“Paul Simon: The Quiet Celebration Concert” lands on Disney+ and Hulu on Friday.

Higher Ground company produces the show.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Fox McCloud saved the day in “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,” but it’s been a long time since the dashing ghter pilot headlined a game. Nintendo is taking advantage of his new-

found celebrity with Star Fox, overhauling his 1997 Nintendo 64 adventure for the Switch 2. The high- ying aerial combat game bounces from planet to planet as players defend the Lylat System from an evil mastermind. You can team up with friends on missions or engage in 4-vs.-4 battles online. Blast o Thursday.

MARTIN MEISSNER / AP PHOTO

Matt Bellamy, left, from Muse gestures to the audience after winning the “Best Rock” award at the European MTV Awards 2022 in Dusseldorf, Germany. The band releases “The Wow! Signal” on Friday.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

portrait to promote the lm “Undertone” in West Hollywood,

EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION / AP PHOTO

STATE & NATION

Wine brands chase Gen Z with playful tie-ins to Shark Week, NASCAR, more

Younger drinkers are forcing wine to trade stu ness for sass, a ordability and pop culture moments

By J.M. Hirsch

The Associated Press

BOSTON — Which wine pairs well with Shark Week? Does a pinot noir have enough acidity to cut through the grime of a Tough Mudder race? Is a big, brassy cabernet bold enough of a qua for a night of naming dead rodents after an ex?

And is a wine named SEX too provocative or not provocative enough?

Absurd as they may sound, these are the questions haunting wine marketers grappling with slumping sales and increasingly elusive drinkers. How consumers — especially younger drinkers — answer them will determine whether an industry long de ned by fuddy-duddy pretense can nd its footing in 2026 and beyond.

“That self-important way that wine can refer to itself — we’re really trying to tip that on its head,” said Helen Kurtz, chief of marketing for The Wine Group, which hopes that o erings such as its easy-drinking Cupcake Vineyards wines can attract a generation that came of age on Frappuccinos and gas station BuzzBallz.

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding,” she said.

By which she means partnering the company’s MD 20/20 (yes, it’s a wine) with World Wrestling Entertainment matches (“Mad Dog Enters the Ring”), and launching the aptly named Fuel by Franzia line of boxed wine beverages for NASCAR (“Full Throttle Flavor”).

Alcohol consumption has dropped

It’s a fresh lesson on the importance of nding your customer rather than hoping they nd you. Because almost across the board, alcohol consumption is down, a trend that accelerated post-pandemic. A host of factors is at play, including aging Boomers seeking healthier lifestyles, Gen Z’s gravitation to low- and no-alcohol beverages, and widening availability of alternatives such as marijuana.

Each segment of the alcohol industry — valued at around $560 billion in the U.S. — is responding di erently. Hard liquor, for example, has found a rare growth category in ready-to-drink canned cocktails. But the wine industry faces its own constellation of challenges, many of its own making.

For anyone new to wine particularly much-coveted 20-somethings — nding one’s

way can be daunting, something of a Château du Stu y e ect.

“You’ve got a bunch of things, what you might call friction points with wine that are particularly salient to younger consumers,” including cost and drinkability, said Christian Miller, director of research for the Wine Market Council.

A pretentious image keeps some customers away

Wine, from the labels to the language used to describe it, historically has leaned pricy and pretentious (looking at

you, “notes of asphalt and barnyard”). Wine trends also have favored boozy and bracing styles, a hard sell for folks used to sipping hard seltzers at the club.

Fewer than a third of Gen Z households own a corkscrew, according to a trends report by the British household products company Lakeland. Even simply trying a wine comes with a gatekeeper: Hard liquor is easy to sample at a bar or as single-shot nips; most wine requires a full-bottle commitment.

A cadre of wineries has begun pushing the bounds of wine culture by ditching the fussy façade in favor of a sassy

vibe and accessible language.

Price matters too (the sweet spot seems to be the $8 to $20 a bottle range), but not nearly so much as the message.

It’s about using contemporary communication to pitch “something that’s been made for centuries,” said Charles Smith, founder of House of Smith, the company behind younger, shopper-friendly brands such as Kung Fu Girl Riesling and SEX Rosé. “My mantra is always to communicate the language of wine to everyone because not everyone speaks wine. The wine should be a re ection of the consumer who is going to buy it.”

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding.”

Helen Kurtz, Chief of Marketing, The Wine Group

Can tie-ins to pop culture make wine more relatable?

Bogle Family Wine Collection has leaned in with its Juggernaut Wines. Adorned with almost graphically violent labels showcasing alpha predators — a shark, a grizzly, an orca, a lion and some sort of particularly angry bird of prey — the bottles are a far cry from the placid villas and languorous ladies plastered across so many wines.

The other side of it is getting those bottles into spaces not traditionally associated with wine, said Jessica LaBounty, the company’s marketing director. For two years, Juggernaut has announced “Adventure awaits” as it sponsored the grueling Tough Mudder races. They’ve also done placements at zoos that host nights where people can name dead rodents and insects after former partners and feed them to the animals. Cheers…?

And this year, it’s Discovery network’s Shark Week. Juggernaut’s chardonnay label sports an especially snappish great white and “just the right amount of bite.”

“The viewer base of Shark Week lines up really, really nicely with who we know our consumer to be,” LaBounty said. “It’s another way to meet them where they are already versus kind of asking them to come to us.”

Learning to speak

Gen Z is key

The goal is to bridge a generational divide in which wine got lost. Younger drinkers don’t and won’t talk about wine the way older drinkers do. To point, there’s a clever social media meme about a Millennial marketing team pitching wine vs. a Gen Z social media team. The Millennial e ort goes on at length about terroir and full-bodied avors. Gen Z’s pitch? “it’s giving… yummy”.

Vibe is everything for Bread & Butter Wines, with the tagline, “Don’t overthink it.” As in, pair their red blend with a candy charcuterie board. Or their pinot noir with a Thanksgiving leftovers sandwich. Want fries with that? Try their prosecco.

“The No. 1 goal is to disrupt the shelf because it is so crowded,” said Caitlin Ward, brand and digital marketing director.

“Sassiness is a way to do that.”

J.M. Hirsch is a longtime food writer who was food editor of The Associated Press for nearly a decade until 2016.

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of pinot noir wines, from left, Josh Cellars Reserve, Juggernaut and Chloe, sit on shelves at a grocery store in Concord, New Hampshire, on June 8.

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of California red wines from Line 39, from left, Cupcake Vineyards and Snoop Dogg’s 19 Crimes Cali Red, are displayed on a Concord, New Hampshire, grocery store shelf.

Randolph record

WHAT’S HAPPENING

8 convicted of terrorism charges in Texas immigration center shooting sentenced to decades in prison

Fort Worth, Texas

A demonstrator who shot and wounded a police o cer during a protest outside a Texas immigration center July 4, 2025, has been sentenced to 100 years in federal prison.

Other protesters also accused of having links to antifa were sentenced Tuesday to multiple decades in federal prison. A federal jury in March found the eight defendants guilty of providing material support to terrorists and other charges.

Prosecutors say the eight took part in a demonstration at the Prairieland Detention Center last July 4 in which a police o cer was shot and wounded. The defendants deny any a liation with the far-left anti-fascist organization.

Trump administration announces $17.5 billion in loans for 10 new large nuclear reactors

The Trump administration is providing $17.5 billion to speed the development of 10 new large nuclear reactors to meet the skyrocketing power demand from massive data centers. The Energy Department announced the loans Tuesday. Energy Secretary Chris Wright cited “tremendous interest” among developers of data centers, called hyperscalers, who would buy the power, as well as utilities and energy companies. The department said seven utilities and energy companies signed letters of intent that identi ed sites. It plans to pick ve, each hosting two reactors. The nancing would be used to purchase nuclear components with long lead times.

$2.00

J Brewer & Co. grew from small storefront into one of Randolph County’s most enduring beauty businesses

County readies for America250 celebrations

There are reworks scheduled throughout Randolph County in recognition of the nation’s birthday

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

NUMEROUS EVENTS related to the country’s 250year celebration are planned in Randolph County in the next few weeks. The City of Asheboro and Randolph County have partnered for several events.

The Randolph County Board of Commissioners established the county’s America250 com-

mittee nearly two years ago. L. McKay Whatley Jr., an attorney from Franklinville, has been the chair.

The committee created a theme — Revolutionary Randolph. A logo is tagged with many of the events in the county. Asheboro has been dressed up with America250 banners throughout downtown. Last month, a screening of The American Constitution was held at Sunset Theatre.

AMERICA250 MOVIE FEST

There will be an America250 movie fest at Sunset Theatre. Admission is free and concessions will be available for purchase.

The enterprise has expanded through the years

By Dan Reeves Randolph Record

ASHEBORO — When Jennifer Brewer opened J Brewer & Co. 25 years ago, it wasn’t with a business blueprint or plans for expansion.

It was a leap of faith.

At 29, with three children at home and a decade of experience behind the chair at A Cut Above in Asheboro, Brewer and her husband, Robert, took a chance on a 600-square-foot ofce space on South Cox Street.

It was enough room for Brewer and three stylists.

Twenty- ve years later, that leap has grown into one of Randolph County’s most

established beauty businesses. J Brewer & Co. employs more than 25 people, o ers hair, nail and aesthetician services, operates a traveling formal styling team for weddings and proms, and draws clients from Charlotte, Greensboro, Burlington, Moore County and beyond.

And in all that time, Brewer said there has never been an open station.

Not once.

“It’s unheard of,” Brewer said. For Brewer, that kind of staying power didn’t happen by accident.

Fresh out of cosmetology school, she landed at A Cut Above under salon owner Christine McCracken, where she spent 10 years learning the business and building relationships. But

The slate of lms is:

• Monday, June 29, 7 p.m. –“Lincoln”

• Wednesday, July 1, 7 p.m. –“Pearl Harbor”

• Thursday, July 2, 7 p.m. –“Selma”

• Friday, July 3 –“A League of Their Own,” at 1 p.m., “Rocky IV” at 7 p.m.

• Saturday, July 4 –“National Treasure” at 10 a.m., “Top Gun” (1986) at 1 p.m., “Jaws” at 7 p.m.

FIREWORKS PLANNED

• America250 in Seagrove is set from 5:30-10 p.m. Saturday with fireworks at Presnell Park. Prior to the fireworks, there’s old-fashioned games, pottery demonstrations and music on tap.

• The Asheboro ZooKeepers’ annual fireworks extravaganza, presented by the City of Asheboro, will take place following a baseball game July 1 at McCrary Park. The Coastal Plain League game between the ZooKeepers and Boone

THE RANDOLPH COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH

STAN GILLILAND FOR RANDOLPH RECORD

J Brewer & Co. team members, from left, Jamie Fogleman, Anna Gardner and Maggie Mancia, serve customers at the salon in Asheboro earlier this week.

STAN GILLILAND FOR RANDOLPH RECORD

Asheboro’s J Brewer & Co. owner Jennifer Brewer, left, celebrates 25 years serving the Randolph County and beyond July 3.

THURSDAY 6.25.26

Data centers become topic at REMC gathering

The cooperative held its annual meeting, and there was a positive nancial report

in reliability improvements. We remain focused on the things that matter most to our members.”

Randolph Guide

North State Journal

(USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365)

Randolph Record (ISSN 2768-5268)

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Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers

Cory Lavalette, Senior Editor

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Shawn Krest, Sports Editor

Dan Reeves, Features Editor

Lauren Rose, Design Editor

Bob Sutton, Randolph Editor

Ryan Henkel, Reporter

PJ Ward-Brown, Photographer

BUSINESS

David Guy, Advertising Manager

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THURSDAY JUNE 25

FRIDAY JUNE 26

SATURDAY JUNE 27

SUNDAY JUNE 28

MONDAY JUNE 29

Randolph Record sta

ASHEBORO — Under the theme of “Powering What Matters,” the Randolph Electric Membership Corporation, a rural cooperative, held its 88th annual meeting Friday night at Southwestern Randolph High School.

There were 416 registered members for the in-person business meeting and about the same number who registered online.

“‘Powering What Matters’ is more than a theme; it is a reminder of why we do what we do,” said Dennis Mabe, chief executive o cer of REMC.

“Whether it’s keeping the lights on when our members need us most, supporting growth in our communities or investing

Secretary-Treasurer Lee Isley’s presentation of the 2025 nancial report showed more than $85 million in revenue and $77 million in expenses.

“Our member-owners have been at the center of every decision we make since the beginning, in 1938,” Mabe said. “Their trust and support continue to inspire our commitment to ‘Power What Matters,’ providing reliable, a ordable energy and building a stronger future for generations to come.”

Mabe brought up the topic of data centers and o ered perspectives on both sides of the topic. He said it’s understandable that most initial impressions of the data centers are generally negative.

“I felt it important to at least begin the conversation about this topic tonight,” Mabe said. “I wanted you to have the op-

Asheboro Police seek leads in case of pool pooper

The city facility was closed for a day for cleaning

Randolph Record sta ASHEBORO — The Asheboro Police Department is

CRIME LOG

June 15

• Timothy Richard Adkins, 59, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Anna Michelle Hughes, 43, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for possession of methamphetamine and possession of marijuana paraphernalia.

• Sheanon Barrymore Lockamy, 46, of Randleman, was arrested by RCSO for tra cking in fentanyl; possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver methamphetamine; and possession of methamphetamine, and other charges.

• Zion Mekkelle Willard, 26, of Ramseur, was arrested by Asheboro PD for assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

June 16

• Christopher Shane Billups, 44, of Liberty, was arrested by RCSO for larceny of a motor vehicle, obtaining property by false pretense and non-support of a child.

• Wendi Diane Walters Graham, 50, of Liberty, was arrested by RCSO for extortion, larceny of a motor vehicle and obtaining property by false pretense, and other charges.

• Kristopher Kermit McDu e, 38, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a controlled substance; felony possession of a controlled substance; and simple possession of a controlled substance, and other charges.

o ering a $500 reward for information regarding identifying who’s responsible for pooping in the Memorial Park pool. The Asheboro Police Department said the incident took place after pool hours earlier this month. Also dis -

• Haylie Marie Walters, 34, of Liberty, was arrested by RCSO for extortion, obtaining property by false pretense and larceny of a motor vehicle.

June 17

• Shannon Franklin Brisson, 50, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for failure to display a burning taillight, operating without a motorcycle endorsement and driving on a revoked license.

• Reggie Dexter Jessup, 35, of Bennett, was arrested by RCSO for assault on a government o cial, possession of stolen property and misdemeanor larceny, and other charges.

• Aresia Annette Poindexter, 39, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for identity theft and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Danielle Lynn Pontious, 37, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for driving while impaired and unsafe tires.

• Brittany Nichole Rasecke, 31, of Bennett, was arrested by RCSO for resisting a public o cer.

• Shawn Patrick Schuyler, 48, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for indecent exposure.

• Vanessa Dawn Taylor, 43, of Franklinville, was arrested by RCSO for second-degree trespass.

June 18

• Robert Clark Gebhardt, 69, of Burlington, was arrested by RCSO for indecent liberties with a child.

• Aaron Lee Jackson, 35, of Mount Olive, was arrested by RCSO for statutory rape of a child age 15 or younger and statutory sexual

portunity to hear and considered what it means speci cally to our cooperative and how it may a ect you as a member-owner, beyond all the political back and forth,” Mabe said. “When managed responsibility, a data center on our system could become a long-term partner that helps strengthen our cooperative, improve infrastructure, support our local communities and create value for our member-owners.”

Among the announcements, a grant of $4.9 million will allow REMC to rebuild transmission lines in the Dover, Ether, Snow Camp and Staley areas across four years. Steel poles across 21 miles of transmission lines will replace 177 deteriorating wooden transmission poles.

The membership elected three directors: Scott Cole to represent District 2, Jerry Bowman in District 4 and Tammie Phillips in District 7. Phillips is the REMC board president.

covered were men’s Tommy Hil ger underwear and junk food trash, both believed to be connected to the overnight incident.

The police department’s Facebook page, while seeking information regarding the case, o ered this: “What a party pooper! If you wanna be our #1 citizen, tell us who our #2 suspect is.” Because of the feces in the pool, the pool was closed for a day for cleaning.

The reward goes to anyone providing information leading to an arrest/conviction or otherwise complete case disposition and accountability in this incident.

o ense with a child age 15 or younger.

• Bryin Edward Mattox, 30, of High Point, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession of a stolen rearm, carrying a concealed gun and possession of marijuana, and other charges.

• Zoet Makayla Grace Reyes, 25, of High Point, was arrested by Asheboro PD for identity theft, possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting a public o cer.

• Brittney Channing Shores, 39, of Julian, was arrested by Asheboro PD for felony possession of a controlled substance, exposing a child to a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Michael Joseph Wallace, 45, of Franklinville, was arrested by RCSO for breaking and entering a motor vehicle.

June 19

• Julio Cesar Benitez, 36, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for loitering and second-degree trespass.

• Brandon Lee Dawley, 34, of Randleman, was arrested by Randleman PD for driving while impaired, injury to real property and exceeding the posted speed, and other charges.

• Dominic Rydell Ellis, 39, of Garysburg, was arrested by RCSO for tra cking in cocaine and an open container alcohol violation.

• Destiny Leidianna House, 25, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for injury to real property, misdemeanor breaking or entering and injury to personal property.

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

June 26

Rock’n the Park featuring Heart Breaker — The Ultimate Heart Tribute Band 8 p.m.

Downtown Asheboro Inc. and the City of Asheboro present Heart Breaker headlining the Rock’n the Park Friday night series at Bicentennial Park. A local opening act performs at 6:30 p.m.; Heart Breaker takes the stage at 8 p.m. Free admission; food trucks and the Zoo City Social District on site.

Bicentennial Park 135 Sunset Ave. Asheboro

June 27

250th Celebration of America in Seagrove 5:30-10 p.m.

Family-friendly event featuring games including Patriotic Bingo, a live musical performance by The Radio with frontman Eck McCanless. Members of the Seagrove Area Potters Association will also be on hand, hosting live pottery demonstrations. The evening concludes with a reworks display. Free admission.

Clay Presnell Park and Disc Golf Course 5129 Seagrove Plank Road Asheboro

Asheboro Summer Cruise Series: Summer Heat

6-10 p.m.

Vintage car display and parade. Free event.

1128 N. Fayetteville St. Asheboro

Asheboro ZooKeepers vs. Boone Bigfoots 6:30-9 p.m.

Two North Carolina baseball teams will meet and play at historic McCrary Park in Asheboro.

138 Southway Road

Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: community@ randolphrecord.com

TUESDAY JUNE 30

WEDNESDAY JULY 1

AMERICA250 from page A1

Bigfoots begins at 6:30 p.m.

• Archdale will celebrate July 4, with gates opening at 2 p.m. at Creekside Park. There will be food and music, with fireworks at dark.

• Randleman has a Fun 5th slated for July 5 at Commerce Square Park. There will be fireworks.

• In Franklinville, there’s

a community event labeled “America’s Potluck” scheduled to begin at 4 p.m. on July 5 at Riverside Park. Visitors are asked to bring a dish or two to share. There will be youth activities and entertainment featuring DJ Law & Order. There’s no admission charge.

• The Town of Liberty is holding its July Festival in conjunction with

America250. That celebration is slated from 4-10 p.m. July 11 on North Fayetteville Street. The event will have music from Deep River Revival. Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m.

• Trinity is holding an America250 celebration from 5:30-9 p.m. July 17. There will be food trucks, youth activities, live music and fireworks.

Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon

THE CONVERSATION

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

VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH

Hillary is right

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president.

IN A NEW INTERVIEW this week, Hillary Clinton identi ed the key decision that resulted in President Donald Trump’s election in 2024. It all boiled down, in her view, to a “terrible miscalculation” — former President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s decision to run for reelection. Biden made a “terrible mistake for himself, his legacy and for the country” in deciding to seek reelection at the age of 81. Had he decided to “pass the torch” and the Democratic Party had held a competitive nomination process, “whoever emerged from that contest — whether it was the vice president, or a governor, or a senator or anybody else — would have beaten Donald Trump.”

Or, I would add, they would have had a better chance than Biden did. Joe and Jill Biden clearly live in a state of denial with respect to Joe’s unpopularity. In some respects, it’s understandable: He wasn’t a bad president and he left the country in better shape than it is now. So why shouldn’t Jill think that even though she was afraid her husband was having a stroke during the debate with Trump, he should stay in the race and if he had, they both seem to believe, he would have beaten Trump. It’s delusional thinking that must have

been reinforced by the deep-seated loyalty of those who had been around him for so long. Sadly, the cost of that delusional thinking is being borne around the world.

The Democratic Party is still struggling to gure out what went wrong. The uno cial o cial autopsy report, which the Party commissioned and then disowned, studiously avoided any criticism of Biden’s decision to seek reelection, which cast doubt on the rest of the report.

Of course, the question remains: Was Kamala Harris the right candidate? That’s the one that even Clinton avoided, pointing out that Harris would have been a stronger candidate if she’d emerged from a competitive process. But would she have? Emerged from a competitive process, that is. Harris was the vice president for an unpopular president. She was caught between defending the indefensible and attacking her own administration. She never gured out how to walk that line in the general election and there’s no reason to think it would have been easier in the primaries.

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president. They got

Not following the example of President James K. Polk

What if you have been clearly winning a war, by any military de nition, and yet the other side doesn’t surrender?

A PRESIDENT orders the onset of hostilities — war — without authorization of Congress and without much in the way of making a case with the public. His troops win important victories and decapitate large parts of the government of the enemy. But in the enemy capital, no one surrenders or will even negotiate seriously.

That leaves the president with the unhappy choice of launching a new military attack on the central focus of the enemy, one riskier and less certain of success than those before, or of declaring an incomplete victory, well short of his essential objective, and just getting the heck out of there.

One president in American history chose the risky rst option and, despite missteps along the way, secured major gains for the country, even if he ultimately fell short of the broader goals that emerged during the con ict. A more recent president has chosen the second option, though the results are still unclear.

Both presidents faced this basic problem: What if you have been clearly winning a war, by any military de nition, and yet the other side doesn’t surrender? Even worse, what if it’s unclear just who is making decisions on the other side and what their goal is?

At this point, it should be clear who one of the presidents is and which power he has chosen to attack and back o : President Donald Trump and the regime of Iran. The other is James Knox Polk, who served as speaker of the House in the 1830s and governor of Tennessee in the 1840s.

Polk pledged to serve just one term. He told historian and Cabinet member George Bancroft that he would pursue just four goals: set up an independent treasury, lower tari s, take uni ed control of the Oregon Territory and take possession of California.

He succeeded at all four in just four years. But not without di culty and controversy.

The treasury and the lower tari s he squeezed out of a Congress with a majority of his fellow

Democrats. Oregon he got after splitting the territory with Britain (which got British Columbia). For California, however, he had to go to war.

There was then some dispute about the borders of recently annexed Texas. Polk ordered Gen. Zachary Taylor to lead troops across the Nueces River to the Rio Grande, claimed by Mexico. Mexican troops attacked Taylor’s Americans.

With American bloodshed on American soil, Polk called on Congress to declare war. Although one-third of members had qualms, they voted for war with Mexico. Taylor then proceeded to beat Mexican troops in multiple battles near the border. But in the capital of Mexico City, or among o -and-on leader Santa Anna’s entourage, no one was negotiating. The great mass of Mexicans lived far south of the U.S. border and weren’t inclined to surrender.

What could Polk, eager to secure rights to California, do? In e ect, he started a second war, ordering Gen. Win eld Scott to land troops at Veracruz and proceed across 11,000foot mountains, near the route of Cortes three centuries before, to reach Mexico City. It worked. In a feat of generalship praised by the aged Duke of Wellington, Scott beat the elusive Santa Anna, got his successor to surrender and helped Nicholas Trist negotiate a treaty netting one-third of Mexican territory (but only 90,000 of its citizens). Polk, greedy for more land as Scott headed inland, wanted more and red Trist, but when presented with his treaty, he sent it to the Senate, which quickly rati ed it.

Trump’s actions were driven more by anger over Iran’s 1979 seizure of U.S. diplomats than by any goal as speci c as Polk’s. Still, the joint U.S.-Israel attacks during the June 2025 12-day war seriously degraded Iran’s nuclear program and set it back.

His attacks this year, starting in February, further degraded Iran’s nuclear program and, with pinpoint accuracy, killed the supreme leader

to see them both, up close. Harris ran a better campaign than she gets credit for. She did put her best foot forward. She was well- nanced. Experienced strategists surrounded her. She did not use a private email server, as Clinton did. She did not have investigators nipping at her heels, the way Clinton did. It was, considering everything, a smooth run. She just didn’t win. I have yet to hear any explanation for why she’s a stronger candidate today than she was in 2024, and she would need to be a stronger candidate to defeat a Marco Rubio, for instance. Harris is leading in most, although not all, of the early polls, but that is a matter of name recognition; perhaps more signi cant is the fact that a majority of Democrats, at this stage, favor candidates other than Harris. And Harris has done almost nothing since the election to distinguish herself as the Party’s leader. Soon enough, we will be hearing more, not only from Gavin Newsom, who is already out there (and being investigated for it), but from Pritzker and Shapiro and Buttigieg, not to mention Jon Osso , Ro Khanna and AOC. The nomination process is awed in many ways, but at least it’s a test, one that Harris will be forced to pass this time.

Susan Estrich is a lawyer, legal scholar and political commentator.

(Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

and dozens of subordinates. He in icted great damage on Iran’s weaponry and its economy.

But the mullahs in Tehran, like the leaders in Mexico City, wouldn’t surrender, and they blocked oil tankers from transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Trump was left with two of his goals — higher tari s and zeroing out Iran’s nukes — seeming to produce politically disastrous high in ation.

So Trump decided not to follow the path of Polk. Amid occasional military attacks, he sought a “deal” with a regime that has paraded its hatred of America for 47 years and has made dozens of promises it has no intention of keeping.

In its latest iteration, the administration has been sluggish in revealing the details. The U.S. will be suspending military action and allowing Iran to freely sell oil, e ectively paying the regime billions. In return, Iran promises to negotiate about its nuclear program and to allow tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, if they pay tolls.

Not much better, you might say, than the “deal” former President Barack Obama negotiated with Iran in 2015, which Trump criticized bitterly then but doesn’t mention so much now. Vice President JD Vance says that Iranian leaders have decided they shouldn’t oppose “the Great Satan” as they have for 47 years, though that would be less incredible (though not very credible) coming from the Iranians themselves.

Perhaps Trump believes he can intimidate Iran’s evil leaders not to do things he doesn’t want, the way he has apparently intimidated Venezuela’s not-so-savory leaders. But it’s not clear that such intimidation is working optimally in the geographically closer, culturally more similar Caribbean, and, inevitably, heading into the second half of his last term, Trump’s ire is a waning asset. Neither his vice president nor any possible Democratic successor is likely to share it.

“If you set out to take Vienna, take Vienna,” Napoleon is supposed to have said. Setting out to take Tehran may or may not have been a mistake. Setting out to take Tehran and then not taking it almost clearly is.

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)

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

World Cup ticket buyers left stranded as resale purchases fall through

Some sellers list tickets before owning them, betting on price drops

By R.J. Rico and Emilie Megnien

The Associated Press

ATLANTA — Bina Ramroop broke down in tears when she realized she wasn’t going to get the World Cup tickets she had bought for her grandson’s 13th birthday.

As thousands poured into Atlanta Stadium last Monday to see Spain face Cape Verde in what turned out to be a remarkable scoreless draw, Ramroop stood outside, increasingly stressed as she went back and forth for hours between StubHub representatives on the phone and FIFA representatives in the ticket booth. Each blamed the other.

No one could gure out why the tickets Ramroop bought months ago on StubHub for $485 apiece couldn’t be transferred from the original seller to the FIFA ticketing app. StubHub offered her a refund and, as Ramroop heard the crowd roar for the start of the match, she knew she had no choice but to give up and take the o er.

“I didn’t want a refund, I didn’t want my money back,” Ramroop said. “I wanted to go to the game.”

The World Cup has delivered thrills on the pitch, but fans have ooded social media with complaints about tickets that never arrived, orders that were canceled at the last minute and hours they spent trying to sort out problems between FIFA’s ticketing system and outside resale platforms. The vast majority seem to be about industry titan StubHub, but people who bought through competitors such as SeatGeek and Vivid Seats have also reported issues. Interviews with fans and industry experts show that some cases stem from technical glitches in the transfer process, while others could involve sellers who never had tickets to deliver in the rst place, though StubHub denies such sales happen on its platform.

A grandmother’s disappointment

FIFA has urged fans to buy resale tickets through its own marketplace, where it slaps a 30% surcharge on every resold ticket — 15% each from the buyer and seller. But many fans bought through other resale sites, either out of habit or because those sites have lower prices or are easier to navigate.

Ramroop didn’t realize she was taking a risk when she bought through StubHub, which she had used in the past without issues.

As she and her grandson Elijah Gomes took the long, lonely train ride back to the Atlanta suburbs, Elijah followed the score on his phone. The match had ended scoreless, and he tried to cheer up his devastated grandmother by telling her they hadn’t missed much after all (Cape Verdeans would beg to di er).

“He’s telling me, ‘Grandma, it’s OK, Grandma.’ And he’s trying to console me,” Ramroop said the next day.

BREWER from page A1

after a decade, Brewer said she started imagining something more.

“I remember going home to my husband and telling him all the things I wished we could do,” Brewer said. “He told me, ‘You can’t put your expectations on someone else. Why don’t you open your own space?’ ”

That conversation changed everything.

After 21⁄2 years in the rst location, local attorney Bob Crumley approached Brewer with another opportunity — a larger space just up the road.

She doubled her square footage — and her sta . Then, about ve years later, with commercial rent climbing, Brewer and her husband started looking for something permanent.

That search led them to

She was hardly alone. An Associated Press journalist witnessed more than a dozen frustrated fans at the match who said they were stuck in similar situations.

StubHub blamed FIFA for the transfer problems that buyers like Ramroop have experienced.

In a statement, it said FIFA has “poor technology infrastructure,” enacted last-minute transfer restrictions and didn’t launch its new ticketing app until a few weeks before the tournament.

The company also called out organizers that “take anti-competitive actions” that limit where fans can buy and sell tickets. Asked about the technical issues, FIFA last week reiterated that sales through its o cial site are guaranteed to go through.

An industry’s longstanding problem

Industry observers say the problems appear to stem from more than one cause. For some, it may indeed be technical glitches — an issue that StubHub says is “very, very rare” and one that it is hard at work to solve. For

what was then an empty eld.

The Lucas brothers were preparing to build a shopping center and o ered Brewer a chance to buy in early. She and Robert chose the front units closest to N.C. 49, designing the salon themselves.

Sixteen years later, it remains home.

Brewer said one thing has followed her through every move: faith.

Before opening day, she prayed for a scripture to dene the salon. Isaiah 41:10 came to mind — a verse she admits wasn’t what she expected, but one she framed anyway.

Two months later came 9/11.

In the weeks after the attacks, Brewer said clients often pointed to that scripture hanging on the wall as they searched for comfort. It has remained there ever since.

others, they say it’s likely a more longstanding scourge: speculative sellers.

Scott Friedman, an industry veteran and co-founder of a consultancy called the Ticket Talk Network, said some sellers list tickets before they actually have them, betting that prices will fall closer to the event so they can buy the tickets at a better price later. But because World Cup ticket prices have surged since the tournament began, those sellers have been forced to either buy expensive tickets to ful ll their orders or cancel and accept penalties from resale platforms. StubHub’s penalties are typically 200% of the ticket price, Friedman said.

“This is not new at all,” said Friedman, pointing to other high-pro le events where frustrated fans were left empty-handed, including Taylor Swift’s Eras tour. “This has been going on, but it’s making global news because it’s the World Cup.”

StubHub says it requires sellers to prove they have tickets before they list them. But regardless of the reason

“Faith is the foundation of who we are,” Brewer said. That foundation runs deeper than business.

Her grandmother once worked the front desk, serving co ee and greeting guests. Her mother joined the salon 16 years ago. Her daughter came aboard two years ago. Four generations of Brewer’s family have worked in or around the business. And the same family dynamic, Brewer said, extends to her sta . The salon has celebrated births, weddings and friendships together. It has also weathered hardships — none bigger than COVID. Like many salon owners, Brewer said the shutdowns were among the toughest months of her career. Keeping employees paid, managing uncertainty and navigat-

“I didn’t want a refund, I didn’t want my money back. I wanted to go to the game.”

Bina Ramroop

for the canceled sales, Friedman said “StubHub should ll every single order to make sure fans get in the biggest global sporting event that happens every four years.”

That’s what many fans say they expected when they purchased through StubHub. StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee promises replacement tickets or a refund if tickets fail to arrive. But the policy repeatedly says those remedies are provided at StubHub’s “sole discretion,” meaning the company can choose a refund instead of securing replacement seats.

“That is pretty explicit language,” said Michael McCann, a sports law expert at the University of New Hampshire. McCann noted that a buyer could try to challenge the language under state consumer protection laws, but it would be an uphill battle.

A father’s regrets

Pape Ndaw is crestfallen that the high school graduation gift he got for his son — tickets for them to see the Netherlands and Japan near their home city of Dallas — never arrived.

He bought the tickets for about $550 apiece in December. Then, two days before the June 14 match, he received an email from StubHub telling him, “The seller can’t deliver your original tickets.”

Ndaw accepted store credit rather than a refund, thinking he would use the funds to

ing mandates tested everything.

But it also reinforced her role as a leader.

“I take my job as a leader very seriously,” she said.

Brewer said the salon emerged stronger, a testament to the culture she has built. That culture now extends into mentorship.

J Brewer & Co. works closely with Randolph Community College’s cosmetology program, o ering internships, tours and guidance for students entering the eld. Brewer said many of her strongest hires have come directly from Randolph Community College. She sees it as part of the responsibility that comes with 25 years in business.

“Start slow. Build. Grow,” Brewer said of the advice she gives young entrepreneurs.

At 56, Brewer has cut back her own hours to three days a week,

quickly get replacements, only to then realize that the cheapest last-minute tickets were going for more than $1,500 each. Not only were they not going to get to go to the game, but Ndaw said StubHub rejected his belated request for a refund instead of store credit.

Breaking the news to his soccer-obsessed son was brutal, Ndaw said.

“It was a disastrous thing,” he said. “He had told all his friends that he was going to that game. He literally cried. I mean, he is a 17-year-old kid, but he cried.”

Others fared somewhat better

Patrick O’Neil of Pittsboro traveled to Atlanta with his wife, son and relatives after purchasing ve tickets through StubHub for the Spain-Cape Verde match. Two tickets transferred successfully, but three never arrived.

O’Neil’s 15-year-old son and his uncle ended up using the two tickets, while O’Neil, his wife and another relative watched from a nearby bar.

After local media caught wind of their ordeal, O’Neil said StubHub contacted the family and o ered tickets to another game. Since the family had already bought tickets to one, though, he and his wife asked the company to instead give the seats to local nonpro t Soccer in the Streets so they could go to people who otherwise might not be able to attend a match.

“StubHub is not evil, but they’re part of the whole system that makes it really hard for just normal kids and people who might want to see a match get to go,” O’Neil said.

Last week, a StubHub representative con rmed to the AP that the company would honor the O’Neils’ request and send tickets to the nonpro t.

slowing down after decades of building. Her husband has mentioned franchising, but for now, she has no plans to expand.

Brewer said what makes J Brewer & Co. work can’t easily be duplicated.

There’s value, she said, in being present.

And after 25 years, that presence has become part of the fabric of Asheboro.

To celebrate the milestone, J Brewer & Co. will host a week of giveaways beginning July 6, with a customer celebration July 7 featuring hors d’oeuvres, prizes and free co ee for the rst 25 guests.

For Brewer, the anniversary is less about marking time and more about gratitude.

“We would not be who we are today if this community did not support us,” Brewer said. “Every person who sits in our chair is gold.”

R.J. RICO / AP PHOTO

Patrick O’Neil, his wife, Gina Di no, right, and their 15-year-old son, Aidan, attend the World Cup match between Czechia and South Africa in Atlanta on last Thursday.

EMILIE MEGNIEN / AP PHOTO

Bina Ramroop holds proof of the ticket she bought through StubHub for the World Cup match between Spain and Cape Verde in Atlanta on June 15.

Jearline Hancock Brown

Feb. 28, 1934 – June 21, 2026

Jearline Hancock Brown, 92, of Bennett, passed away on Sunday, June 21, 2026, at her home surrounded by her family. The funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Pleasant Grove Christian Church with Pastor Jimmy Jones and Pastor Don Edwards presiding. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends at the church prior to the service from 12:45-1:45 pm and return to

Camila “Cami” Jewel Garner

July 25, 1983 – June 15, 2026

Camila “Cami” Jewel Garner, 42, of Denton, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Monday, June 15, 2026, at Hinkle Hospice House in Lexington.

A memorial service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., Friday, June 19, 2026, at Science Hill Friends Meeting, with Pastor Andy Garner o ciating. Burial will follow in the meeting cemetery.

Cami was born on July 25, 1983, in Randolph County. Cami lived life with a joyful spirit and a heart that welcomed everyone she met. A true lover of the outdoors, she found peace and happiness surrounded by nature, whether tending to her owers, watching hummingbirds utter nearby, admiring the beauty of butter ies and enjoyed hunting for arrowheads. She also had a love for cooking for family and friends. Cami had a theatrical personality and bubbly nature. She never met a stranger and could strike up a conversation with anyone, making people feel comfortable and valued.

Above all, Cami carried a deep love for Jesus Christ and through him she was able to work through her life struggles and was determined to nish strong.

Cami was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Reid and Meredith Thornburg; paternal grandparents, Wade and Virginia Garner; bonus grandfather, Wayne Lawson.

She is survived by her son, Braxton Vick who she loved deeply; mother, Laura Garner; father, Michael Garner and wife Kim; bonus grandmother, Carol Lawson; brother, Carson Garner; partner, Danny Brown; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins; and fur baby, Russell.

The family will receive friends following the service at Science Hill Friends Meeting.

Memorials may be made to Alderwood Health of Davidson County, 200 Hospice Way, Lexington, NC 27292; or to Science Hill Friends, P.O. Box 1386, Asheboro, NC 27204.

obituaries

the fellowship hall following the committal. Joyce-Brady Chapel will be open from 1:00-5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 for friends to sign the register. Friends are welcome to visit the family at her home and will formally gather on Tuesday, June 23, 2026 from 5:00-8:00 p.m.

Jearline was born on February 28, 1934, to Graham and Mossie Wilson Hancock. She was on the 1952 Goldston High School State Championship basketball team. She was a dedicated member of Pleasant Grove Christian Church for 70 years where she served as a Sunday School teacher, member of the Women’s Fellowship, a faithful member of the choir with a beautiful alto voice. Jearline retired from Glendale Hosiery and later worked as a substitute teacher for Chatham County Schools. She loved shopping and going to thrift stores and antique shops. She enjoyed going on trips with her family. Jearline loved her family and adored her grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Jearline was preceded in death by

Ronald “Ronnie” Cooper

July 9, 1950 – June 16, 2026

Ronald “Ronnie” Tracy Cooper, 75, of Asheboro, passed away peacefully surrounded by friends and family, Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center in Winston-Salem.

A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., Monday, June 22, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, 908 Albemarle Road, Asheboro, with Pastor Ed Carter o ciating and Michelle Hill sharing memories. Burial will follow at Randolph Memorial Park.

Ronnie was born on July 9, 1950, in Randolph County, the son of the late Tracy Raymond Cooper and Annie Auman Cooper. He was a huge sports fan with his favorite teams being the Carolina Tarheels, the Atlanta Braves, and his favorite NASCAR driver, Jimmy Johnson. He enjoyed working in his yard and planting his garden. He loved predicting the weather and was usually pretty accurate. Ronnie loved watching the waves of the ocean whenever he could.

In addition to his parents, Ronnie was preceded in death by his sisters, Jean Hall, Wanda Lowe; and sister-in-law, Tammy Randleman.

Ronnie is survived by his wife of 53 years, Patricia Cooper; daughter, Tracey Adams and husband Eric; son, Aubrey Scott Cooper and wife Crystal; grandchildren, Dustin Cooper and wife Bryanna, Regan Cooper, Colin Adams, Nicole Corns, Nathan Corns; great grandchildren, Remington Cooper, Sawyer Cooper, Axton Cooper, Ellis Cooper, Zaxton Hamm, Zayden Corns; several special nieces and nephews; and his dog, Bella.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, June 21, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the amazing care team at Moses Cone Cancer Center.

Memorials may be made to American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 1640, Hagerstown, MD 21741

her husband, J.H. “Red” Brown; sisters, Ruby Hammer, Beulah Hammer, Augusta “Gus” Gilliland and Linda Jones; brothers, Roy Hancock and Raeford Hancock.

Jearline is survived by her daughters, Rita B. Holt (Steve), of Bear Creek and Angie B. Fields (Buddy), of Goldston; grandchildren, Beth Caviness (Jacob), Joshua Holt (Jean), and Amber Fields; greatgrandchildren, Reid Caviness, Anna Claire Caviness, Sadie Holt and Miller Brown Holt; sister, Joyce Headen (Tommy), of Siler City; sister-in-law, Mary Etta Brown, of Siler City; brother-inlaw, Jimmy Jones, of Pleasant Garden and a host of family and friends.

The family would like to extend their thanks to Gloria Josey, Peggy Beavers, Nancy Dunn, Dee Dee Mo tt, and Laura Gibbons for their loving care and compassion.

In addition to owers, donations may be made to Pleasant Grove Christian Church Cemetery Fund, 5946 Pleasant Grove Church Rd., Bennett, NC 27208.

George Stein Jr.

March 13, 1939 –June 16, 2026

George H. Stein Jr., 87, of Asheboro, NC, passed away on June 16, 2026.

He was born on March 13, 1939, to the late George H. Stein Sr. and Elizabeth Boughton Stein in Harrisburg, PA. There he attended John Harris High School, where he was an excellent student. He played both piano and trumpet and was also a skilled tennis player, serving as captain of the tennis team.

George went on to study medicine and philosophy at Haverford College, then continued his studies at Union Theological Seminary. He was ordained as a minister in 1964 and served congregations of the United Church of Christ, rst in Hagerstown, MD and later in Winchester, VA.

Later in life, George moved to Charlotte, NC to be closer to family. There he became an active member of the Charlotte Friends Meeting. He enjoyed visiting with relatives across the country and Canada. George had an appreciation for and regularly enjoyed visits to the symphony and theater.

George spent his nal years at the Terra Bella retirement community in Asheboro, where he formed close friendships, led Bible studies, and looked forward to shared meals and activities with fellow residents.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Barbara S. Kumar and brother-in-law Brad Heinzen. He is survived by his sister Charlotte S. Heinzen of Jamestown, brother Douglas Stein and his wife Carola Marte of Bethany, CT and brother-in-law Raj Kumar of Charlotte. He was a beloved uncle to three nieces, three grandnieces and two grandnephews.

George will be remembered fondly for his ever-calm presence, the ease with which he was able to converse with and learn from those he spent time with, his quickness to nd and enjoy the humor in a situation when decorum allowed and his tremendous attention to detail. George was exceptionally humble, unusually modest and always considerate. He will be missed by many.

The family will host private memorial services at a later date. Donations in George’s honor may be made to the Charlotte Friends Meeting.

Lowell Wendell Plum

Oct. 13, 1931 – June 16, 2026

Lowell Wendell Plum (known as Wendell, or Wendy to his friends) died peacefully at his home in Asheboro, NC, on June 16, 2026. He lived a life packed full of love, adventure, travel, and do-it-yourself projects. He was raised in Mt. Morris, Illinois, and graduated from Mount Morris High School in 1949. He then attended Manchester College, where he met the love of his life, Gail Ann Shope. They married June 22, 1955, in Carroll County, Indiana. After earning his bachelor’s degree in physics, Wendell began a graduate program in physics, but due to nancial pressures, he and Ann moved to Corpus Christi, TX, to start his career in communications and supervisory control systems. During his career, he was at the leading edge of the evolution of vacuum tubes to transistors to integrated circuits to computers. Most of his career was spent working for Sylvania and General Telephone and Electronics (GTE) on a wide range of projects that spanned the globe.

Wendell and Ann lived in Sudbury, Massachusetts from 1957 to 1985, when he retired and moved to Seagrove, NC to build his dream home in a place that he and Ann grew to love. They built this home almost completely by themselves, brick-by-brick and board-by-board, including making his own boards with his portable sawmill. It took about ve years to complete, partly due to spending summers in their favorite summer place on Little Diamond Island, Portland, Maine. The Little Diamond Island cottage was also built mostly by themselves (plus slave labor from their children) starting around 1970. From that moment forward, Ann and Wendell spent as much of their summer time as possible

David Kennedy

Oct. 3, 1951 – June 20, 2026

David Charles Kennedy, 74, of Raleigh, North Carolina, passed away on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Wesley Long Hospital following a series of illnesses, surrounded by his loving family.

David was born on October 3, 1951, in Troy, NC, and was the son of Charles and Aitha Kennedy, of Star, NC.

He graduated from Montgomery High School, then attended UNC-Charlotte, where he double-majored and earned degrees in Computer Engineering and Engineering Technology.

He held engineering and managerial positions within the System Planning & Operations area of Progress Energy for over 30 years and was privileged to start and end his career with the same company.

on the island, rst only on weekends and vacations before Wendell retired, then all summer long after that.

Ann and Wendell discovered Little Diamond Island on one of their annual cruises in their 22-foot sloop, which Wendell also made, by himself, from a kit. He loved to learn new skills and to understand how things worked. He also made an 8-inch telescope, which included grinding the glass blank into a perfect parabolic shape using a grinding system he built himself, and then making the mirror by coating the parabolic shape with a vacuum evaporation system he built himself. He also made his own gunpowder, cut and polished stones and geodes from his work in Brazil, and made many net bags that he would distribute to his friends and family, to name just a few of his projects. Wendell also loved getting involved with the local potters’ projects, for example setting up their kilns and pottery wheels. Wendell and Ann owned many beautiful art pieces and bowls created by local potters, and Wendell’s brother was a potter himself.

Wendell was also active in the Masonic Lodge. In 1969, he became the youngest-ever Past Master of Alpha Lodge, AF&AM. He remained active in the Biscoe, NC Lodge until he passed. During his early years in Sudbury, he was Scout Master of Boy Scouts of America Troop #12 in Framingham, Massachusetts. He was also active in Amateur Radio from his high-school years until he passed. His call signs were W9ORE, K5JEE, K1ECV, WA1RRY, and nally KK4YW. During his years in Corpus Christi, he got his pilot’s license and ew small aircraft.

Wendell was preceded in death by Ann, who died January 16, 2024. He is survived by their three children, Wendy Ann Labrecque (married to Mark Labrecque), Michael Plum (married to Karen Plum now deceased), and John Plum; Wendy Ann’s children Nichole Heady (married to David Heady), Jennifer Labrecque (married to Noah Kleiner), and Cory Labrecque; and Michael’s children Joshua Plum (married to Alexandra Plum) and Zachary Plum. Wendell himself died of bladder cancer. A visitation will be held for Mr. Plum on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 6-8 p.m. at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue, Asheboro, NC 27203.

David married Linda Dick on June 8, 1975 at Beulah Baptist Church in Bennett, NC. They were blessed to share 51 wonderful years together.

He especially enjoyed volunteering with the Durham Police Department Reserves and served as Chief of Police in Stem, NC.

He was a member of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church and an active member of The Gideons International for many years.

Remaining to cherish David’s memory are his loving wife of 51 years, Linda; his daughters, Kristin (Jared) Reeder, of Franklinville, NC and Rachel (Vic) Sfera, of Riverside, California; his brother, Farrell (Brenda) Kennedy, of Cary, NC; nephew, Grant Kennedy, of Raleigh, NC and four grandsons who were the joy of his life; Paxton & Lincoln Reeder and Lucas & Clay Sfera.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at North Ridge Bible Chapel in Raleigh. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 p.m. with Kevin Moore o ciating. Burial will be a private family graveside service at Beulah Baptist Church in Bennett, NC.

*Due to renovations at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, the funeral service will be held at North Ridge Bible Chapel in Raleigh.

STATE & NATION

Wine brands chase Gen Z with playful tie-ins to Shark Week, NASCAR, more

Younger drinkers are forcing wine to trade stu ness for sass, a ordability and pop culture moments

By J.M. Hirsch The Associated Press

BOSTON — Which wine pairs well with Shark Week? Does a pinot noir have enough acidity to cut through the grime of a Tough Mudder race? Is a big, brassy cabernet bold enough of a qua for a night of naming dead rodents after an ex?

And is a wine named SEX too provocative or not provocative enough?

Absurd as they may sound, these are the questions haunting wine marketers grappling with slumping sales and increasingly elusive drinkers. How consumers — especially younger drinkers — answer them will determine whether an industry long de ned by fuddy-duddy pretense can nd its footing in 2026 and beyond.

“That self-important way that wine can refer to itself — we’re really trying to tip that on its head,” said Helen Kurtz, chief of marketing for The Wine Group, which hopes that o erings such as its easy-drinking Cupcake Vineyards wines can attract a generation that came of age on Frappuccinos and gas station BuzzBallz.

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding,” she said.

By which she means partnering the company’s MD 20/20 (yes, it’s a wine) with World Wrestling Entertainment matches (“Mad Dog Enters the Ring”), and launching the aptly named Fuel by Franzia line of boxed wine beverages for NASCAR (“Full Throttle Flavor”).

Alcohol consumption has dropped

It’s a fresh lesson on the importance of nding your customer rather than hoping they nd you. Because almost across the board, alcohol consumption is down, a trend that accelerated post-pandemic. A host of factors is at play, including aging Boomers seeking healthier lifestyles, Gen Z’s gravitation to low- and no-alcohol beverages, and widening availability of alternatives such as marijuana.

Each segment of the alcohol industry — valued at around $560 billion in the U.S. — is responding di erently. Hard liquor, for example, has found a rare growth category in ready-to-drink canned cocktails. But the wine industry faces its own constellation of challenges, many of its own making.

For anyone new to wine particularly much-coveted 20-somethings — nding one’s

way can be daunting, something of a Château du Stu y e ect.

“You’ve got a bunch of things, what you might call friction points with wine that are particularly salient to younger consumers,” including cost and drinkability, said Christian Miller, director of research for the Wine Market Council.

A pretentious image keeps some customers away

Wine, from the labels to the language used to describe it, historically has leaned pricey and pretentious (looking at

you, “notes of asphalt and barnyard”). Wine trends also have favored boozy and bracing styles, a hard sell for folks used to sipping hard seltzers at the club. Fewer than a third of Gen Z households own a corkscrew, according to a trends report by the British household products company Lakeland. Even simply trying a wine comes with a gatekeeper: Hard liquor is easy to sample at a bar or as single-shot nips; most wine requires a full-bottle commitment.

A cadre of wineries has begun pushing the bounds of wine culture by ditching the fussy façade in favor of a sassy

vibe and accessible language. Price matters too (the sweet spot seems to be the $8 to $20 a bottle range), but not nearly so much as the message.

It’s about using contemporary communication to pitch “something that’s been made for centuries,” said Charles Smith, founder of House of Smith, the company behind younger, shopper-friendly brands such as Kung Fu Girl Riesling and SEX Rosé. “My mantra is always to communicate the language of wine to everyone because not everyone speaks wine. The wine should be a re ection of the consumer who is going to buy it.”

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding.”

Helen Kurtz, Chief of Marketing, The Wine Group

Can tie-ins to pop culture make wine more relatable?

Bogle Family Wine Collection has leaned in with its Juggernaut Wines. Adorned with almost graphically violent labels showcasing alpha predators — a shark, a grizzly, an orca, a lion and some sort of particularly angry bird of prey — the bottles are a far cry from the placid villas and languorous ladies plastered across so many wines.

The other side of it is getting those bottles into spaces not traditionally associated with wine, said Jessica LaBounty, the company’s marketing director. For two years, Juggernaut has announced “Adventure awaits” as it sponsored the grueling Tough Mudder races. They’ve also done placements at zoos that host nights where people can name dead rodents and insects after former partners and feed them to the animals. Cheers…?

And this year, it’s Discovery network’s Shark Week. Juggernaut’s chardonnay label sports an especially snappish great white and “just the right amount of bite.”

“The viewer base of Shark Week lines up really, really nicely with who we know our consumer to be,” LaBounty said. “It’s another way to meet them where they are already versus kind of asking them to come to us.”

Learning to speak

Gen Z is key

The goal is to bridge a generational divide in which wine got lost. Younger drinkers don’t and won’t talk about wine the way older drinkers do. To point, there’s a clever social media meme about a Millennial marketing team pitching wine vs. a Gen Z social media team. The Millennial e ort goes on at length about terroir and full-bodied avors. Gen Z’s pitch? “it’s giving… yummy”.

Vibe is everything for Bread & Butter Wines, with the tagline, “Don’t overthink it.” As in, pair their red blend with a candy charcuterie board. Or their pinot noir with a Thanksgiving leftovers sandwich. Want fries with that? Try their prosecco.

“The No. 1 goal is to disrupt the shelf because it is so crowded,” said Caitlin Ward, brand and digital marketing director.

“Sassiness is a way to do that.”

J.M. Hirsch is a longtime food writer who was food editor of The Associated Press for nearly a decade until 2016.

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of pinot noir wines, from left, Josh Cellars Reserve, Juggernaut and Chloe, sit on shelves at a grocery store in Concord, New Hampshire, on June 8.

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of California red wines from Line 39, from left, Cupcake Vineyards and Snoop Dogg’s 19 Crimes Cali Red, are displayed on a Concord, New Hampshire, grocery store shelf.

RandolpH SPORTS

It didn’t work out

UNC baseball players watch from the dugout during the ninth inning of the decisive Game 3 of College World Series nals Monday night in Omaha, Nebraska. Oklahoma won 13-2.

Post 45’s big comeback stumps Liberty again

Randolph County began the second half of its Area 3 slate with a rally from a nine-run hole

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

ASHEBORO — Nothing seems too big of a task for Randolph County Post 45 after what it pulled o Monday night.

The rst-year baseball team is playing home games at Providence Grove

Post 45 came back from a nine-run de cit to beat visiting Liberty Post 81 by 15-10 and remain unscathed in Area 3 play in American Legion baseball.

“A mess, but they didn’t lose focus,” Post 45 manager Andrew Connor said of his team.

“I don’t think our (players) know they can lose until they tell us the game is over.”

Kyle Dillow’s two-run single in the sixth inning gave Post 45 its rst lead of the night at

McCrary Park. He also helped spark the comeback a couple of innings earlier. Liberty led 9-0 following Cade McCallum’s two-run triple and Avery Wright’s two-run home run in the fourth.

“I knew we were going to be ne,” Post 45 out elder Sam Gore said. “We had big innings against them before.”

Post 45 countered with a seven-run mark in the bottom of the inning, with doubles from

Dillow and Gore driving in runs. Lucas Connor and Jake Riddle rapped two-run doubles. The uprising was derailed, in part, when Hudson Deel was out because of batter interference with two runners on base for the second out.

“We de nitely switched gears fast,” said Lucas Connor, the Post 45 catcher. “I wouldn’t say it’s too hard with the guys we have out there.”

Randolph County pulled even in the fth courtesy of Ashton Poe’s run-scoring single and Connor’s RBI elder’s choice.

Price Kidd was the winning pitcher in relief of Sean Jennison.

There was a lightning delay of about 75 minutes following

Chance Holdaway’s home run in the top of the third inning. There were two more pauses later in the game because of downpours.

“I think I’ve been here for seven hours,” Gore said, counting pregame work.

Post 81 starter Bryson Marley cruised through three innings, but Maddox Dunn took the loss as Liberty dropped to 0-5 in Area 3 play. Holdaway also doubled and was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded, while McCallum added an RBI double and a bases-jammed walk. It marked Randolph County’s third victory against Liberty this season, including twice in a four-night stretch.

Melon Mashers learn on the y Despite changes, ZooKeepers keep solid winning

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

CLIMAX — About a month into the inaugural season for the Mid-State Melon Mashers, team founder Carter Catlett said it’s a rewarding and learning process.

The Melon Mashers went 5-5 through 10 games, but that’s only part of the big picture.

Catlett’s quest is to allow the collegiate summer baseball team to be an avenue for more awareness of breast cancer. His wife, Karen, is a breast cancer survivor.

Catlett said a crowd of about 125 attended the rst home game at Providence Grove High School. Since then, the average has been about 75 to 80.

There were 14 mammograms on a special game-day event earlier this month. Each game’s ceremonial rst pitch is thrown by a breast cancer survivor, something dubbed “Survivor’s First Pitch.”

“It’s an awareness thing,” Catlett said. “I’m getting my mes-

“This is about these guys getting work. It’s about them and their development.”

Shane Worth, Melon Mashers coach

sage out on that thing, which is important.”

Some teams have held breast cancer awareness activities around visits from the Melon Mashers, Catlett said.

On the eld, some of the MidState players are recent high school graduates combined with players with college experience.

Coach Shane Worth said it’s a valuable time for players seeking games.

“Overall, it’s a good experience,” Worth said. “Guys are getting experience. This is about these guys getting work. It’s about them and their development.”

Last year, Worth coached the now-defunct Randolph Ropin’ Roosters, who were based in Ramseur and played in the Old North State League. Catlett, whose son played for the team, and Worth sought a bet-

ter setup for a team in Randolph County.

“We saw what went well, what didn’t,” Worth said.

In a game last week, the Melon Mashers led the visiting Raleigh Red Oaks 6-0 — aided by Maddux Perez’s home run — but ended up losing the game 13-8.

“Everybody wants more pitching,” Catlett said. Worth said many of the younger players are learning the grind and concentration needed with nine-inning games.

“How much di erence nine (innings) makes than seven,” he said. It’s a learn-as-you-go endeavor. Catlett lled in as public address announcer for a recent home game.

The Melon Mashers are an independent team, so putting together a schedule was a chore. The opponents include teams from the Coastal Plain League, Old North State League, Blue Ridge League and Charlotte-based Queen City Baseball League.

The Melon Mashers can be out tted in four di erent uniforms, so there has been investment in the operation.

“The point of this year is not to lose any more money,” Catlett said.

The collegiate summer league baseball team had a managerial change after the season began

Randolph Record sta

ASHEBORO — There have been changes with the Asheboro ZooKeepers through the rst few weeks of the season. One thing that has remained constant is winning. The ZooKeepers entered this week atop the Coastal Plain League’s West Division in the summer collegiate baseball circuit.

Mark Weidemaier is no longer manager of the ZooKeepers as he was out of that position after seven games. Team o cials haven’t disclosed the reason for the change regarding Weidemaier, who’s a Liberty resident. In Weidemaier’s place, pitching coach Jamey May moved into the managerial post. He’s also the high

pace

school coach for Asheboro. Mason Bell, who had been the bullpen coach, is the new pitching coach. Bell was a pitcher for the ZooKeepers last year before nishing his collegiate eligibility this year for Southern Indiana.

Weidemaier’s time with the ZooKeepers came after he was let go last summer by the Bismarck Larks, who play in the summer collegiate Northwoods League. He was with the team for two seasons with a 52-90 record, including an 18-54 mark in 2025.

His time with the Larks ended as he was assessed a seven-game suspension and ne because his pitchers violated the Northwoods League’s rule regarding pitch counts on multiple occasions. KFYR in Bismarck, North Dakota, reported that Weidemaier had a year remaining on his contract with the Larks when his time with the team ended.

ZOOKEEPERS, page

Boone Hinesley

Asheboro, football / track and eld

He played roles for the Blue Comets in football as a lineman and in track and eld as a thrower.

He received All-Triad Area Athletic Conference honors as an o ensive lineman in football. He also contributed on defense at linebacker.

Hinesley had top-seven nishes in the shot put and discus in the Class 6A Central Regional for track and eld this spring. In the winter, he placed sixth in the state in the shot put for indoor track and eld.

Hinesley received a sportsmanship award through the Randolph Sports Council.

During the summer, we recognize seniors from the past school year.

ZOOKEEPERS from page B1

ZooKeepers assistant general manager Clint Marsh, who was overseeing operations last week at McCrary Park, said the team also has been experiencing player roster uctuations, which have become typical for the team in recent seasons.

Meanwhile, the ZooKeepers are home Saturday night vs. the Boone Bigfoots, Sunday night vs. the Morehead City Marlins and next Wednesday against Boone again.

Recent results

The ZooKeepers won 7-6 and 9-5 on Saturday against the host Martinsville Mustangs in Virginia.

Asheboro scored two runs in the top of the ninth inning to claim the rst game, boosted by Drue Saenz’s solo home run, Will Oates’ four hits and Wilmis Castro’s two runs batted in. Takuma Sato was the win-

ning pitcher and Carlos Gomez notched a save.

Sylas Boris homered twice and the ZooKeepers scored the nal nine runs in the nightcap to complete the sweep. Chazz Grossington joined Boris with three runs batted in. Braxton Walker was the winning pitcher with 12⁄3 innings of hitless relief.

The ZooKeepers lost 8-6 to visiting Martinsville on Friday night despite Cameron Austin’s three-run home run at McCrary Park. Bennett Holdener took the loss after allowing four earned runs in one inning of relief.

Earlier last week, the ZooKeepers won 5-4 against the host Lexington County Blowsh. Brady McGuire hit a solo home run. Seth Way, the rst of four relievers who combined for ve shutout innings, was the winning pitcher. In last week’s exhibition, Kingsmen Academy defeated the host ZooKeepers 13-6.

TRIAD AREA ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

SPRING ALL-CONFERENCE

HERE ARE the Triad Area Athletic Conference major award winners plus all-conference selections from Asheboro for spring sports.

BASEBALL

Co-Players of the Year: Nick VanGorden (Northern Guilford), Owen Landreth (Southeast Guilford)

Co-Pitchers of the Year: Camden Winfree (Southeast Guilford), Price Kidd (Asheboro)

Coach of the Year: Jamey May (Asheboro)

All-Conference

Asheboro: Price Kidd, Reid Sudduth, Shane Immel, Sam Gore, Daniel Jaimes

BOYS’ GOLF

Golfer of the Year: Jack Weston (Northern Guilford)

Coach of the Year: Dan Harrington (Northern Guilford)

All-Conference

Asheboro: Charlie Knott, Brayden Davis

GIRLS’ SOCCER

O ensive Player of the Year: Teagan

Doughty (Northern Guilford)

Defensive Player of the Year: Emerson

McCall (Eastern Guilford)

Coach of the Year: Heather Williams (Eastern Guilford)

All-Conference

Asheboro: Jaira Arellano, Kimrey Watts, Penny Smith, Gigi Flores, Crystal Castaneda

SOFTBALL

Player of the Year: Maya Wilson (Southeast Guilford)

Pitcher of the Year: Madison Smith (Southern Guilford)

Coach of the Year: Russ Dorrell (Northern Guilford)

All-Conference

Asheboro: Cora Little, Shellee Culler

BOYS’ TENNIS

Player of the Year: Finley Harris (Northern Guilford)

Coach of the Year: Joan Sloyan (Northern Guilford)

All-Conference

Asheboro: Josh Prochnau, Brady Howell, Liam Lambert, Elliot Nall

BOYS’ TRACK AND FIELD

Sprinter of the Year: Davion Hall (Southern Guilford)

Distance Runner of the Year: Robert Sutcli e (Northern Guilford)

Field Event Athlete of the Year: Aaron Tyson (Asheboro)

Coach of the Year: Earl Bates (Southeast Guilford)

Asheboro: Aaron Tyson, Juan Pablo Munoz, Michael Mark

GIRLS’ TRACK AND FIELD

Sprinter of the Year: Jalaya Showers (Asheboro)

Distance Runner of the Year: Peyton Simpson (Northern Guilford)

Field Event Athlete of the Year: Jalaya Showers (Asheboro)

Coach of the Year: Vincent Cable (Asheboro)

All-Conference

Asheboro: Jalaya Showers, Lia George, Christy Price, Nyla Price, Sarah Reeder, Trynitee Brady

PIEDMONT ATHLETIC CONFERENCE

SPRING ALL-CONFERENCE

HERE ARE the Piedmont Athletic Conference major award winners plus all-conference selections from Randleman for spring sports.

BASEBALL

Player of the Year: Jake Riddle (Randleman) Pitcher of the Year: John Kirkpatrick (Randleman)

Coach of the Year: Nick Musgrave (Central Davidson)

All-Conference

Randleman: Jake Riddle, John Kirkpatrick, Jackson Hill, Tate Andrews, Kyle Dillow, Gavin Vanover

BOYS’ GOLF

Golfer of the Year: Colton Slack (Ledford) Coach of the Year: Terry Linthicum (Randleman)

All-Conference

Randleman: Landon Cook, Kaden Beasley, Cameron Ashley, Cayden Stamey

GIRLS’ SOCCER

O ensive Player of the Year: Madison Eccard (Ledford) Defensive Player of the Year: Madison Lohr Pope (Central Davidson) Coach of the Year: Apryl Holbert (Ledford)

All-Conference

Randleman: Camila Reyes, Carolina Candelero, Kendall Fortson, Kenzie Vaughan, Mayra Mercado Vazquez

SOFTBALL

Player of the Year: Cassidy Murray (Ledford) Pitcher of the Year: Kailyn Mumford (Central Davidson) Coach of the Year: Josh Ashby (Randleman)

All-Conference

Randleman: Kadie Green, Addyson Dees, Kinzie Ivey, Kaylee Phillips, Ella Rogers

BOYS’ TENNIS

Player of the Year: Landon Thoma (Ledford) Coach of the Year: Brian Thoma (Ledford)

BOYS’ TRACK AND FIELD

Field Athlete of the Year: Izaiah Troxler (Randleman)

Running Athlete of the Year: Christian Fulton (High Point Andrews) Coach of the Year: Ty Mathis (High Point Andrews)

All-Conference

Randleman: Bryson Nall, Fareed Ray, Izaiah Troxler, Jazai Cassady, Kayden Saunders, Matthew Bowman, Zeirene Williams

GIRLS’ TRACK AND FIELD

Field Athlete of the Year: Breana Allison (Montgomery Central)

Running Athlete of the Year: Valerie Gainey (High Point Andrews)

Coach of the Year: Ty Mathis (High Point Andrews)

All-Conference

Randleman: Alexis Vaughn, Janiyah Brooks, Reagan Henley

PHOTOS BY BOB SUTTON / RANDOLPH RECORD Aaron Tyson Jalaya Showers

JANN ORTIZ / FOR RANDOLPH RECORD

Randleman’s Kadie Green wrapped up a solid high school softball career.

Caraway plans for big events

A holiday weekend card will include the Rusty Harpe Memorial

Randolph Record sta

SOPHIA — Caraway Speedway will hold North Carolina Appreciation Night with the Grand National Super Series visiting for twin 50-lap races Saturday night.

The racing card also in-

cludes twin 20-lappers for Chargers, 20 laps for Mini Stocks, 15 laps for UCARs and a power pu UCARs race for women. There’s also a 12-lap sprint for Crown Vics.

A week later, the track’s July 4 race card will include the 20th edition of the Rusty Harpe Memorial. That’s a 99-lap race for Limited Late Models, with more than $7,100 designated for the winner. There also will be

SMART Modi ed Tour and Carolina Crate Modi ed Series races.

Heading into the nal weekend in June, the speedway’s points leaders include Dylan Ward (Limited Late Models), Tyler Bush (Chargers), David Creed (602 Modi eds), Brandon Crotts (Mini Stocks – rear-wheel drive), Jason Gallimore (Mini Stocks –front-wheel drive), Tito Clapp (UCARs).

Amateur stars Russell, Koivun

grouped in US Open’s ‘future of golf’ pairing

Just 17 and 21 years old,

By Brian Mahoney

The Associated Press

SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. — Miles Russell had a long walk to his ball at the end of a long U.S. Open round with Jackson Koivun on Saturday after smashing his tee shot 407 yards on the 18th hole.

“Not bad, not bad,” Russell said afterward with a smile. “I hit that one pretty good.”

Imagine what he might be able to do when he’s all grown up. The 17-year-old Russell and 21-year-old Koivun were paired together in the third round, a grouping that was being referred to during TV coverage as the future of golf.

Already so accomplished before they are even professionals — Russell hasn’t even started college yet — both players understand why such expectations have been placed on them.

“I mean, I’m trying not to think about that,” Koivun said. “Just taking it one day at a time and let my golf game do the talking, but those are great compliments.”

Both players shot 4-over 74, dropping to 7 over for the tournament. Those scores weren’t too bad on a dicult day at windy Shinnecock Hills for any golfer, let alone two that were playing on the weekend for the rst time in a major championship.

It’s expected to be the rst of many times for both.

Koivun is about to turn pro after a dominant college career in which he led Auburn to two national championships in three seasons, becoming the rst freshman since Justin Thomas in 2012 to win the Haskins Award, given to the nation’s top collegiate golfer. He won the Southeastern Conference individual title all three years and has been the world’s top-ranked amateur.

Russell is now the next big thing. The left-hander is ranked No. 1 in the American Junior Golf Association and No. 7 among all amateurs in the world. He is headed to Florida State and will be a teammate

POST 45 from page B1

Post 45 won 14-3 on Friday night in Ramseur, where Connor drove in three runs and Jackson Hill scored three runs. Riddle pitched ve innings for the complete-game victory. Weston Murphy drove in three Post 81 runs.

Other results

On Sunday, Post 45 made it halfway through its 12-game Area 3 schedule without a loss.

The team eked out a couple of victories at the beginning of last week and then won more convincingly in games through the weekend.

Post 45 moved to 6-0 in Area 3 play and 10-2 overall. Randolph County defeated High Point-Thomasville Post

“I think we just keep doing what we’re doing, and see where it takes us”

Miles Russell

with Charlie Woods, Tiger Woods’ son, who carried Russell’s bag when he earned his spot in the U.S. Open through a 36-hole quali er.

“He’s been in the game for a while and he’s just such a good player,” Koivun said.

The players who didn’t know each other well before this weekend were paired again Sunday. Russell, who played with 54-year-old Padraig Harrington in the rst two rounds, took advantage of a chance to be with someone closer to his age Saturday to get some advice about school.

Like Koivun, he tried to downplay the “future of golf” hype around them.

“I don’t know, that’s kind of crazy,” Russell said. “I mean, I think the main thing is just keep enjoying it because if you’re not enjoying it, you may not have much of a future in it. So, I think we just keep do -

87 for the second time by one run. The 6-5 result came when Hill’s two-out y ball was lost in the sky by right elder Levi Ponder, resulting in a two-run, game-ending double. Deel was the winning pitcher in relief.

Earlier, Post 45 scored two - out runs in the third inning on Connor’s triple, Caleb Coggins’ single and Brady Arm eld’s two-run home run on an 0-2 pitch.

Post 87 countered with three two-out runs in the fth inning.

• Randolph County needed eight innings the next night for a 9-8 comeback victory against Hamlet Post 49, tying the game with three runs in the seventh and winning with two runs in the eighth.

Arm eld tripled in a run and then scored the winning

ing what we’re doing, and see where it takes us.

“Golf is a very di cult sport,” he added. “One day you have it and the next day it’s gone, so I think you just have to kind of block it out and just keep doing what you’re doing, and hopefully one day that’s true.”

Still, he could tell there was an interest in them, even though they were out early in the morning, long before anyone near the top of the leaderboard.

“At the beginning, we had some good crowds out there,” Russell said. “I think if we might have played a little better, they might have stuck around a little longer, but it was cool.”

Koivun and Russell were two of the ve amateurs who made the cut, a group that was led by 21-year-old Ryder Cowan. Cowan, who will be a senior at Oklahoma, was tied for 11th after 36 holes.

So perhaps the future of golf goes beyond Koivun and Russell.

“Yeah, I mean, amateur golf is in a great spot right now,” Koivun said. “The college kids are de nitely showing o , showing o how good they are, and for ve of us to make it through, it’s quite impressive.”

run in the eighth. Hill nished with three runs batted in and Connor scored three runs. Deel was the winning pitcher in relief.

• Randolph County had a smooth outing Sunday by winning 14-2 at Moore County behind Keaton Hill’s ve innings on the mound. Gore homered for Post 45, while Connor had three hits and Riddle knocked in three runs.

• Post 81 didn’t win last week, though it led host Davidson County Post 8 by 3-0 in a game suspended by rain. That game will resume Friday in Ramseur prior to a regularly scheduled game between the teams.

On Saturday, Moore County Post 12 defeated visiting Post 81 by 10-0. McCallum, the starting pitcher, took the loss.

the pair shows great potential

SETH WENIG / AP PHOTO

Miles Russell and Jackson Koivun walk on the 14th hole during the third round of the U.S. Open.

Bush Hager imprint release now in Oprah’s lucrative book club

The former rst daughter published “Little Wonder”

By Hillel Italie

Associated Press

The

NEW YORK — Oprah Winfrey’s latest book club pick also has the blessing of a second literary tastemaker: Jenna Bush Hager.

Winfrey announced last week that she had selected Sophie Chen Keller’s “Little Wonder,” which has just been published. Keller’s novel was released by Hager’s Thousand Voices imprint, in partnership with Penguin Random House. Set in China, “Little Wonder” is the story of a food delivery worker and her gifted son, a musical prodigy who gets lost in Beijing.

“Harrowing experiences and unexpected kindnesses make this a novel to remember.”

Oprah Winfrey

“I was riveted in hopeful anticipation of the outcome of this unforgettable journey of a mother and her son,” Winfrey said in a statement. “Harrowing experiences and unexpected kindnesses make this a novel to remember.”

Winfrey’s podcast interview with Keller can be viewed on the Oprah YouTube Channel and other podcast outlets. Hager, the “Today” show co -host and founder of the “Read With Jenna” book

club, not only published “Little Wonder” but sent an early copy to Winfrey and facilitated the phone call during which Winfrey informed the author of her decision.

“Getting the call from Oprah was an astonishing dream come true,” Keller said in a statement. “I’m still reeling in disbelief. But if I could go back in time and tell the little girl curled up with her mom, reading bedtime stories, that one day Oprah would read her story and choose it for her book club, the little girl would believe it — because she knew the world was magic.” Keller, a native of China raised in California, lives in Germany with her husband and two children. She is also the author of “The Luster of Lost Things,” a novel published in 2017.

Oprah Winfrey discusses the book “Enough: Your Health,

To Be Free” earlier this year in New York.

Hamilton, Domingo lead star-studded front row at

Ralph Lauren’s Milan show

Runway casting was age- and race-inclusive

By Colleen Barry The Associated Press

MILAN — Lewis Hamil-

ton hobnobbed with Colman

Domingo in the front row of Ralph Lauren’s Milan Fashion Week show, trading notes on a menswear collection that ran the gamut from bankerly pinstripes to layered festival wear.

The fashion powerhouse has shown menswear in its stately Milan palazzo the last two seasons, drawing an A-list crowd Friday evening that also included “Crazy Rich Asians” star Henry Golding, “Avengers” actor Tom Hiddleston, U.S. actor Scott Eastwood.

Outside, eager fans braved a heatwave to glimpse of arriving celebrities and were rewarded as Thai actor Nichakoon Khajornborirak, nicknamed Meen, and Korean actor Kim Woo-bin each took a moment to turn and wave as the crowd snapped photos.

Domingo took a slide on his way inside, as he circled back to his car to grab his hand fan.

“I was not going to leave that fan in that car,” Domingo said after the evening show.

“Then my heel just slid, and I was safe. But I got the fan, which was the most important thing.”

From Brooklyn to the Hamptons

Daytime suits from Ralph Lauren’s luxury Purple line quickly morphed into tuxe-

do shirts and sti bow ties under trailing patchwork denim coats that showed signs of distress. Looks were nished with berets worn askew, aviator glasses and pocket watch chains.

“Today I saw it felt like 1920s-inspired,” Domingo said, stopping to listen to Nat King Cole play in the background. “It’s evocative of what we saw today. A mixture of old and new.”

On the more casual side, colorful madras plaids held together the sportier Polo collection of layered knitwear, rugby shirts and light pu ers more adapted to a mountain festival or night-time beach party than a Milan heatwave. Some looks were straight out of the “Preppy Handbook,” with pink and green happily colliding. Cheekily, the coveted Polo Bear motif on knitwear wore

out ts matching the runway. From Purple to Polo, timeless accessories

Formal and casual looks gradually converged throughout the collection, without regard for occasion. Silk scarves accenting suits became colorful bandanas on casual looks. Ties became belts and were sewn together to make bags, suggesting a reusability on trend with up-cycling. Footwear ranged from leather sherman’s sandals to velvet slippers and espadrilles to rain-resistant duck boots. For bags, men can choose from Ralph Lauren-branded canvas totes or luxury snakeskin portfolios and bags. Eastwood said he had his eye on a snakeskin bag. “This is just a classy brand that’s timeless,’’ said Eastwood.

ANDY KROPA / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Your Weight, and What It’s Like

ANTONIO CALANNI / AP PHOTO

Lewis Hamilton, right hugs Colman Domingo as he arrives for the Ralph Lauren Spring/Summer 2027 men’s collection presented in Milan, Italy, last Friday.

famous birthdays this week

Civil rights activist James Meredith turns 93, Ricky Gervais celebrates 65, Twyla Tharp hits 85

The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week.

JUNE 25

Civil rights activist James Meredith is 93. Singer Carly Simon is 83. Actor-comedian Jimmie Walker is 79. Musician Tim Finn is 74. U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor is 72. Actor-writer-comedian Ricky Gervais is 65.

JUNE 26

Jazz musician-composer Dave Grusin is 92. Brazilian singer-songwriter and politician Gilberto Gil is 84. Basketball Hall of Fame coach Tara VanDerveer is 73. Musician Mick Jones (The Clash, Big Audio Dynamite) is 71. Filmmaker Paul Thomas Anderson is 56.

JUNE 27

Musician Bruce Johnston (The Beach Boys) is 84. Fashion designer Norma Kamali is 81. Fashion designer Vera Wang is 77. Actor Julia Du y is 75. Actor Isabelle Adjani is 71. Cinematographer Janusz Kamiński is 67. Writer-producer-director J.J. Abrams is 60.

JUNE 28

Filmmaker-comedian Mel Brooks is 100. Diplomat and politician Hans Blix is 98. Actor Kathy Bates is 78. Football Hall of Famer John Elway is 66. Actor John Cusack is 60. Billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk is 55. Country singer-TV personality Kellie Pickler is 39.

JUNE 29

Songwriter L. Russell Brown is 86. Singer-songwriter Garland Je reys is 83. Actor Gary Busey is 82. Former actor and politician Fred Grandy is 78. Rock musician Ian Paice (Deep Purple) is 78. Singer Don Dokken is 73.

JUNE 30

Actor Nancy Dussault is 90. Olympic track champion Billy Mills is 88. Oceanographer Robert Ballard is 84. Singer-songwriter Glenn Shorrock (Little River Band) is 82. Jazz musician Stanley Clarke is 75. Actor Vincent D’Onofrio is 67.

JULY 1

Actor-dancer Leslie Caron is 94. Actor Jamie Farr (“M*A*S*H”) is 92. Dancer-choreographer Twyla Tharp is 85. Actor Genevieve Bujold is 84.

Fred Schneider

Rock singer Deborah Harry (Blondie) is 81. Actor Terrence Mann is 75. Rock singer

(The B-52s) is 75. Actor-comedian Dan Aykroyd is 74. Actor Alan Ruck is 70.

ROGELIO V. SOLIS / AP PHOTO Civil rights activist James Meredith turns 93 on Thursday.

EDUARDO MUNOZ ALVAREZ / AP PHOTO Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor turns 72 on Thursday.

TONY AVELAR/ AP PHOTO Basketball Hall of Fame coach Tara VanDerveer turns 73 on Friday.

the stream

Paul Simon, ‘In the Hand of Dante,’

‘Avatar: The Last Airbender,’ Star Fox

British rockers Muse drop “The Wow! Signal”

By Jake Coyle

The Associated Press

A PAUL SIMON concert special and Season 2 of the live-action “Avatar: The Last Airbender” 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: a new Larry David series celebrating American history, the horror lm “Undertone” and the return of Star Fox.

MOVIES TO STREAM

Filmmaker Ian Tuason uses soundscapes to scare audiences in his debut feature “Undertone,” a minimalist auditory horror about a paranormal podcaster that is streaming on HBO Max on Friday. In his review for The Associated Press, lm writer Jake Coyle wrote that “it’s a testament to Tuason’s evident lmmaking talent that, with these bare bones, ‘Undertone’ swells into a gripping and unsettling experience. This is a movie that summons many of its scares with a sudden boost in audio levels, the thunderous tick of a clock or the scream of … a tea kettle. It’s even rated ‘R’ not for bloodcurdling violence or satanic ghouls but, simply, ‘language.’”

John Cena plays a buttoned-up real estate agent whose carefully curated life gets upended when his chaotic “little brother,” played by Eric André, reappears in his life in the new Net ix comedy “Little Brother,” streaming Friday. Michelle Monaghan, Christopher Meloni and Caleb Hearon are all part of the big ensemble cast. Also arriving on Net ix, on Wednesday is Julian Schnabel’s “In the Hand of Dante,” a divisive “literary gangster” movie with Oscar Isaac, Gal Gadot and Al Pacino. Peacock also has a new Tyler Perry and Jason Blum-produced psychological thriller, “Strung,” that will be streaming on Friday. Chloe Bailey plays a talented violinist who takes a

“Undertone” is a testament to Tuason’s evident lmmaking talent that, with these bare bones, ‘Undertone’ swells into a gripping and unsettling experience.”

job as a music tutor for a prestigious family in the Malcolm D. Lee-directed pic.

MUSIC TO STREAM

It’s not as good as catching Simon on the singer-songwriter’s “A Quiet Celebration Tour,” but it is the next best thing. On Friday, fans can enjoy Simon’s brand-new twohour concert special, “Paul Simon: The Quiet Celebration Concert,” streaming on Disney+ and Hulu. Expect deep cuts, new arrangements and timeless hits recorded live at McCaw Hall in Seattle. It’s also a story of triumph — a legendary performer learning the stage again after beginning to experience hearing loss.

The globally popular English rock band Muse returns with “The Wow! Signal,” a new full-length project named after “a powerful 72-second radio burst detected in 1977 originating from the constellation Sagittarius with a bandwidth and intensity that suggested a possible extraterrestrial source,” according to a statement. It’s a tting source of inspiration for the space-y stadium rock band, and an appropriate title for an album full of retro-futuristic synth songs (“Nightshift Superstar”), scienti c vernacular (“Cryogen”) and anthemic guitars (“Unraveling.”)

SERIES TO STREAM

The live-action “Avatar: The Last Airbender” debuts its second season Thursday on Netix. It’s set in a world divided into four nations based on the four elements: earth, water, re and air. A young Avatar named Aang is the only being who can manipulate each of those ele -

Director Ian Tuason poses for a portrait to promote the

California.

ments, giving him power that serves him in both everyday life and as protection. In Season 2, Aang is still learning to master his powers. For most kids, school is out for the summer, and that includes Charlie Brown and the gang. The animated series “Camp Snoopy” returns for Season 2 on Friday on Apple TV. It follows the adventures of Snoopy, a beagle scout (get it?), Charlie and their friends enjoying the summer at Camp Spring Lake. Just in time to celebrate America’s upcoming 250th birthday, David stars in a new historical sketch comedy series called “Life, Larry and the Pursuit of Unhappiness. “ Debuting Friday on HBO Max, David plays historical gures alongside guest stars including Jon Hamm, Kathryn Hahn, Vince Vaughn, Bill Hader, Jerry Seinfeld, J.B. Smoove and Isla Fisher. Like David’s “Curb Your Enthusiasm,” this show is largely improvised and features David’s trademark pessimistic, observational humor. Barack and Michelle Obama’s

“Paul Simon: The Quiet Celebration Concert” lands on Disney+ and Hulu on Friday.

Higher Ground company produces the show.

VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

Fox McCloud saved the day in “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie,” but it’s been a long time since the dashing ghter pilot headlined a game. Nintendo is taking advantage of his newfound celebrity with Star Fox, overhauling his 1997 Nintendo 64 adventure for the Switch 2. The high- ying aerial combat game bounces from planet to planet as players defend the Lylat System from an evil mastermind. You can team up with friends on missions or engage in 4-vs.-4 battles online. Blast o Thursday.

MARTIN MEISSNER / AP PHOTO

Matt Bellamy, left, from Muse gestures to the audience after winning the “Best Rock” award at the European MTV Awards 2022 in Dusseldorf, Germany. The band releases “The Wow! Signal” on Friday.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

lm “Undertone” in West Hollywood,

EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION / AP PHOTO

HOKE COUNTY

WHAT’S HAPPENING

8 convicted of terrorism charges in Texas immigration center shooting sentenced to decades in prison

Fort Worth, Texas

A demonstrator who shot and wounded a police o cer during a protest outside a Texas immigration center July 4, 2025, has been sentenced to 100 years in federal prison. Other protesters also accused of having links to antifa were sentenced Tuesday to multiple decades in federal prison. A federal jury in March found the eight defendants guilty of providing material support to terrorists and other charges. Prosecutors say the eight took part in a demonstration at the Prairieland Detention Center last July 4 in which a police o cer was shot and wounded. The defendants deny any a liation with the far-left anti-fascist organization.

Trump administration announces $17.5 billion in loans for 10 new large nuclear reactors

The Trump administration is providing $17.5 billion to speed the development of 10 new large nuclear reactors to meet the skyrocketing power demand from massive data centers. The Energy Department announced the loans Tuesday. Energy Secretary Chris Wright cited “tremendous interest” among developers of data centers, called hyperscalers, who would buy the power, as well as utilities and energy companies.

Hoke County Wagon Train makes return to Raeford

Hundreds gather to enjoy nostalgic family fun

By Elaina J. Martin For North State Journal

THE 63RD Annual Hoke County Wagon Train rolled into town on June 19. The trail and parade, starting at 1201 Alex Baker Road in Raeford, ended downtown at the courthouse. This year’s Wagon Trail was lled with 27 wagons and

150 riders. The event brought more than 450 people to Hoke County this year and continues to grow. What was once a square dance at Raeford’s National Armory has become a night when participants and spectators groove the night away as Taylor Baker, the event’s DJ, plays. The Wagon Train has come a long way. The event has also improved in terms of safety. Now, panels are put in place

“If we don’t have something for kids, this thing is going to die out.”

Frankie Wilson

around the ring to keep things safe while holding the horse games. The weekend a air continued Saturday with games galore. Horse games and chil-

dren’s games kept the whole family engaged. Each night ended with music.

“I have always loved the wagon train,” says Frankie Wilson, a leader of the Hoke County Wagon Train, who makes sure everything runs smoothly. “After about 30 years, the event died down. We realized that if we don’t have something for kids, this thing is going

The president claimed vandals have damaged the pool’s new coating as authorities make multiple arrests

By Nathan Ellgren and Bill Barrow The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. —

National Guard members and U.S. Park Police patrolled the deck around the Lincoln Memorial Re ecting Pool on Monday as President Donald Trump’s administration faces a self-imposed deadline to x a botched renovation before the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. The patrols came two days after Trump said authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he insisted were responsible for damage to the peeling coating after an algae bloom occurred. The liner was

installed as part of his $14 million-plus project.

The president has con rmed the problems most likely require draining the pool again for liner repairs, and he promised a quick x. Without o er-

ing substantiation, he also said vandals dumped fertilizer in the pool and slashed the coating with a box cutter. But the timeline was not clear Monday, with the White House saying damaged areas

“I’m a curious citizen. I reached down to see what it felt like. It was very rubbery.”

are still being assessed. Contractors and federal workers in recent days have been using chemicals and ozone nanobubbles to combat the algae. Trump pitched the original improvements as intended to clean, beautify and reinforce an iconic site that he said had become dilapidated and dirty because of previous presidents’ neglect. Algae has plagued the pool for a century, and Trump insisted a newly installed “American ag blue” coating, which he selected himself,

JASON JACKSON FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

The Hoke County Wagon Train makes its way through Raeford earlier this month.

David Hearn, former Olympic canoe racer

would turn the pool into a gleaming expanse along the National Mall.

Yet within weeks of Trump declaring the rehabilitation completed in time for Independence Day, the water was plagued by a vivid green algae bloom that clouded the pool’s coating. A piece of liner, about 4 square feet, was observed Friday partially oating in the pool. The Associated Press saw additional pieces in the water Monday.

“Join the

TRAIN from page A1

to die out, and we were on to something.”

Obviously, the Wagon Train leaves its imprint on the little ones. People who used to attend the event as kids have since brought their children, and now that generation is bringing their children.

There were fun things to do, including riding the bucking bull and shopping from vendors peddling their wares; a little something for the old and

Via social media, the president has blamed the problems on “SICK, DERANGED PEOPLE!” He asserted Monday on Truth Social that intentional damages include a “300 foot long gash” and that “chemicals have been illegally placed in the water.” A day earlier, Trump posted, “Work will begin immediately on xing the seriously vandalized Re ecting Pool.”

At an executive order signing Monday, the president said ve people had been arrested and ve more were under suspicion, and he de ected blame for the pool’s maintenance issues.

“I can’t help it if somebody goes in with a knife and starts hacking it up,” he said. He has not backed up those claims, and even if anyone has deliberately peeled or cut the lining, that would not explain the algae bloom that appeared more intensely than what typically occurred before the renovation.

Images showing that Trump’s project apparently back red boomeranged across social media last week, drawing crowds of onlookers eager to see the e ects themselves. An unknown number ended up being detained by federal authorities.

One man arrested was David Hearn, 67, of Bethesda, Maryland. A former Olympic canoe racer, Hearn told The Associated Press that he reached into the pool because he wanted to examine the peeling new coating. He said he brie y touched a chunk that was still attached to the side of the pool, then let go shortly after a park worker told him to. Hearn said he was then detained by National Guard troops and Park Police for ve hours before being released Friday night.

the young. Safety was a big concern, so more padding was added around the arena. There were no problems. “We are all one big family,” said Wilson. Wilson worries that if people don’t know about the Hoke County Wagon Train, the event may zzle out. Wilson loves to share his passion for this project. If you are interested in being a part of the Hoke County Wagon Train, contact Wilson at 910 -286 -1307 or by email at frankiewilson06@ gmail.com.

“I’m a curious citizen,” Hearn said in a telephone interview. “I reached down to see what it felt like. It was very rubbery.”

The Park Police did not immediately respond Monday to AP’s questions about how many arrests were made and whether any charges had been led. Washington’s Metropolitan Police Department said Monday that the agency is not involved. The White House said Monday that any arrests have been made only by the U.S. Park Police. It was not immediately apparent what criminal or civil violation someone might commit reaching into the pool. Trump, in one of his Truth Social posts, cited laws against defacing monuments as grounds for imprisoning anyone harming the pool.

Hoke-Raeford, NC, with Ruben Castellon and Chris Holland.

MARK SCHIEFELBEIN / AP PHOTO

National Guard members look at the Lincoln Memorial Re ecting Pool on Monday in Washington, D.C.

JON ELSWICK / AP PHOTO

A visitor takes a photo as National Park Service employees work to clean the Lincoln Memorial Re ecting Pool on Sunday on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

THE CONVERSATION

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

VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH

Hillary is right

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president.

IN A NEW INTERVIEW this week, Hillary Clinton identi ed the key decision that resulted in President Donald Trump’s election in 2024. It all boiled down, in her view, to a “terrible miscalculation” — former President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s decision to run for reelection. Biden made a “terrible mistake for himself, his legacy and for the country” in deciding to seek reelection at the age of 81. Had he decided to “pass the torch” and the Democratic Party had held a competitive nomination process, “whoever emerged from that contest — whether it was the vice president, or a governor, or a senator or anybody else — would have beaten Donald Trump.” Or, I would add, they would have had a better chance than Biden did. Joe and Jill Biden clearly live in a state of denial with respect to Joe’s unpopularity. In some respects, it’s understandable: He wasn’t a bad president and he left the country in better shape than it is now. So why shouldn’t Jill think that even though she was afraid her husband was having a stroke during the debate with Trump, he should stay in the race and if he had, they both seem to believe, he would have beaten Trump. It’s delusional thinking that must have

been reinforced by the deep-seated loyalty of those who had been around him for so long. Sadly, the cost of that delusional thinking is being borne around the world.

The Democratic Party is still struggling to gure out what went wrong. The uno cial o cial autopsy report, which the Party commissioned and then disowned, studiously avoided any criticism of Biden’s decision to seek reelection, which cast doubt on the rest of the report.

Of course, the question remains: Was Kamala Harris the right candidate? That’s the one that even Clinton avoided, pointing out that Harris would have been a stronger candidate if she’d emerged from a competitive process. But would she have? Emerged from a competitive process, that is. Harris was the vice president for an unpopular president. She was caught between defending the indefensible and attacking her own administration. She never gured out how to walk that line in the general election and there’s no reason to think it would have been easier in the primaries.

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president. They got

Not following the example of President James K. Polk

What if you have been clearly winning a war, by any military de nition, and yet the other side doesn’t surrender?

A PRESIDENT orders the onset of hostilities — war — without authorization of Congress and without much in the way of making a case with the public. His troops win important victories and decapitate large parts of the government of the enemy. But in the enemy capital, no one surrenders or will even negotiate seriously.

That leaves the president with the unhappy choice of launching a new military attack on the central focus of the enemy, one riskier and less certain of success than those before, or of declaring an incomplete victory, well short of his essential objective, and just getting the heck out of there.

One president in American history chose the risky rst option and, despite missteps along the way, secured major gains for the country, even if he ultimately fell short of the broader goals that emerged during the con ict. A more recent president has chosen the second option, though the results are still unclear.

Both presidents faced this basic problem: What if you have been clearly winning a war, by any military de nition, and yet the other side doesn’t surrender? Even worse, what if it’s unclear just who is making decisions on the other side and what their goal is?

At this point, it should be clear who one of the presidents is and which power he has chosen to attack and back o : President Donald Trump and the regime of Iran. The other is James Knox Polk, who served as speaker of the House in the 1830s and governor of Tennessee in the 1840s.

Polk pledged to serve just one term. He told historian and Cabinet member George Bancroft that he would pursue just four goals: set up an independent treasury, lower tari s, take uni ed control of the Oregon Territory and take possession of California.

He succeeded at all four in just four years. But not without di culty and controversy.

The treasury and the lower tari s he squeezed out of a Congress with a majority of his fellow

Democrats. Oregon he got after splitting the territory with Britain (which got British Columbia). For California, however, he had to go to war.

There was then some dispute about the borders of recently annexed Texas. Polk ordered Gen. Zachary Taylor to lead troops across the Nueces River to the Rio Grande, claimed by Mexico. Mexican troops attacked Taylor’s Americans.

With American bloodshed on American soil, Polk called on Congress to declare war. Although one-third of members had qualms, they voted for war with Mexico. Taylor then proceeded to beat Mexican troops in multiple battles near the border. But in the capital of Mexico City, or among o -and-on leader Santa Anna’s entourage, no one was negotiating. The great mass of Mexicans lived far south of the U.S. border and weren’t inclined to surrender.

What could Polk, eager to secure rights to California, do? In e ect, he started a second war, ordering Gen. Win eld Scott to land troops at Veracruz and proceed across 11,000-foot mountains, near the route of Cortes three centuries before, to reach Mexico City. It worked. In a feat of generalship praised by the aged Duke of Wellington, Scott beat the elusive Santa Anna, got his successor to surrender, and helped Nicholas Trist negotiate a treaty netting one-third of Mexican territory (but only 90,000 of its citizens). Polk, greedy for more land as Scott headed inland, wanted more and red Trist, but when presented with his treaty, he sent it to the Senate, which quickly rati ed it.

Trump’s actions were driven more by anger over Iran’s 1979 seizure of U.S. diplomats than by any goal as speci c as Polk’s. Still, the joint U.S.-Israel attacks during the June 2025 12-day war seriously degraded Iran’s nuclear program and set it back.

His attacks this year, starting in February, further degraded Iran’s nuclear program and, with pinpoint accuracy, killed the supreme leader

to see them both, up close. Harris ran a better campaign than she gets credit for. She did put her best foot forward. She was well- nanced. Experienced strategists surrounded her. She did not use a private email server, as Clinton did. She did not have investigators nipping at her heels, the way Clinton did. It was, considering everything, a smooth run. She just didn’t win. I have yet to hear any explanation for why she’s a stronger candidate today than she was in 2024, and she would need to be a stronger candidate to defeat a Marco Rubio, for instance. Harris is leading in most, although not all, of the early polls, but that is a matter of name recognition; perhaps more signi cant is the fact that a majority of Democrats, at this stage, favor candidates other than Harris. And Harris has done almost nothing since the election to distinguish herself as the Party’s leader.

Soon enough, we will be hearing more, not only from Gavin Newsom, who is already out there (and being investigated for it), but from Pritzker and Shapiro and Buttigieg, not to mention Jon Osso , Ro Khanna and AOC. The nomination process is awed in many ways, but at least it’s a test, one that Harris will be forced to pass this time.

Susan Estrich is a lawyer, legal scholar and political commentator.

(Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

and dozens of subordinates. He in icted great damage on Iran’s weaponry and its economy.

But the mullahs in Tehran, like the leaders in Mexico City, wouldn’t surrender, and they blocked oil tankers from transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Trump was left with two of his goals — higher tari s and zeroing out Iran’s nukes — seeming to produce politically disastrous high in ation.

So Trump decided not to follow the path of Polk. Amid occasional military attacks, he sought a “deal” with a regime that has paraded its hatred of America for 47 years and has made dozens of promises it has no intention of keeping.

In its latest iteration, the administration has been sluggish in revealing the details. The U.S. will be suspending military action and allowing Iran to freely sell oil, e ectively paying the regime billions. In return, Iran promises to negotiate about its nuclear program and to allow tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, if they pay tolls.

Not much better, you might say, than the “deal” former President Barack Obama negotiated with Iran in 2015, which Trump criticized bitterly then but doesn’t mention so much now. Vice President JD Vance says that Iranian leaders have decided they shouldn’t oppose “the Great Satan” as they have for 47 years, though that would be less incredible (though not very credible) coming from the Iranians themselves.

Perhaps Trump believes he can intimidate Iran’s evil leaders not to do things he doesn’t want, the way he has apparently intimidated Venezuela’s not-so-savory leaders. But it’s not clear that such intimidation is working optimally in the geographically closer, culturally more similar Caribbean, and, inevitably, heading into the second half of his last term, Trump’s ire is a waning asset. Neither his vice president nor any possible Democratic successor is likely to share it.

“If you set out to take Vienna, take Vienna,” Napoleon is supposed to have said. Setting out to take Tehran may or may not have been a mistake. Setting out to take Tehran and then not taking it almost clearly is.

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)

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

World Cup ticket buyers left stranded as resale purchases fall through

Some sellers list tickets before owning them, betting on price drops

By R.J. Rico and Emilie Megnien

The Associated Press

ATLANTA — Bina Ramroop broke down in tears when she realized she wasn’t going to get the World Cup tickets she had bought for her grandson’s 13th birthday.

As thousands poured into Atlanta Stadium last Monday to see Spain face Cape Verde in what turned out to be a remarkable scoreless draw, Ramroop stood outside, increasingly stressed as she went back and forth for hours between StubHub representatives on the phone and FIFA representatives in the ticket booth. Each blamed the other.

No one could gure out why the tickets Ramroop bought months ago on StubHub for $485 apiece couldn’t be transferred from the original seller to the FIFA ticketing app. StubHub o ered her a refund and, as Ramroop heard the crowd roar for the start of the match, she knew she had no choice but to give up and take the o er.

“I didn’t want a refund, I didn’t want my money back,” Ramroop said. “I wanted to go to the game.”

The World Cup has delivered thrills on the pitch, but fans have ooded social media with complaints about tickets that never arrived, orders that were canceled at the last minute and hours they spent trying to sort out problems between FIFA’s ticketing system and outside resale platforms. The vast majority seem to be about industry titan StubHub, but people who bought through competitors such as SeatGeek and Vivid Seats have also reported issues. Interviews with fans and industry experts show that some cases stem from technical glitches in the transfer process, while others could involve sellers who never had tickets to deliver in the rst place, though StubHub denies such sales happen on its platform.

A grandmother’s disappointment

FIFA has urged fans to buy resale tickets through its own marketplace, where it slaps a 30% surcharge on every resold ticket — 15% each from the buyer and seller. But many fans bought through other resale sites, either out of habit or because those sites have lower prices or are easier to navigate.

Ramroop didn’t realize she was taking a risk when she bought through StubHub, which she had used in the past without issues.

As she and her grandson Elijah Gomes took the long, lonely train ride back to the Atlanta suburbs, Elijah followed the

score on his phone. The match had ended scoreless, and he tried to cheer up his devastated grandmother by telling her they hadn’t missed much after all (Cape Verdeans would beg to di er).

“He’s telling me, ‘Grandma, it’s OK, Grandma.’ And he’s trying to console me,” Ramroop said the next day.

She was hardly alone. An Associated Press journalist witnessed more than a dozen frustrated fans at the match who said they were stuck in similar situations.

StubHub blamed FIFA for the transfer problems that buyers like Ramroop have experienced. In a statement, it said FIFA has “poor technology infrastructure,” enacted last-minute transfer restrictions and didn’t launch its new ticketing app until a few weeks before the tournament. The company also called out organizers that “take

Employee of the Month

Juanita Smith

Juanita is a compassionate PCA who puts the residents’ needs before her own. She provides professional care and always meets the needs of the residents. Integrity Open Arms wants to thank you!

anti-competitive actions” that limit where fans can buy and sell tickets.

Asked about the technical issues, FIFA last week reiterated that sales through its o cial site are guaranteed to go through.

An industry’s longstanding problem

Industry observers say the problems appear to stem from more than one cause. For some, it may indeed be technical glitches — an issue that StubHub says is “very, very rare” and one that it is hard at work to solve. For others, they say it’s likely a more longstanding scourge: speculative sellers.

Scott Friedman, an industry veteran and co-founder of a consultancy called the Ticket Talk Network, said some sellers list tickets before they actually have them, betting that prices will fall closer to the event so they

Resident of the Month

Helen Preaster

Helen Preaster is always full of joy. Her sweet and kind nature shines through in everything she does.

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.

“I didn’t want a refund, I didn’t want my money back. I wanted to go to the game.”

Bina Ramroop

can buy the tickets at a better price later. But because World Cup ticket prices have surged since the tournament began, those sellers have been forced to either buy expensive tickets to ful ll their orders or cancel and accept penalties from resale platforms. StubHub’s penalties are typically 200% of the ticket price, Friedman said.

“This is not new at all,” said Friedman, pointing to other high-pro le events where frustrated fans were left empty-handed, including Taylor Swift’s Eras tour. “This has been going on, but it’s making global news because it’s the World Cup.”

StubHub says it requires sellers to prove they have tickets before they list them.

But regardless of the reason for the canceled sales, Friedman said “StubHub should ll every single order to make sure fans get in the biggest global sporting event that happens every four years.”

That’s what many fans say they expected when they purchased through StubHub.

StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee promises replacement tickets or a refund if tickets fail to arrive. But the policy repeatedly says those remedies are provided at StubHub’s “sole discretion,” meaning the company can choose a refund

instead of securing replacement seats.

“That is pretty explicit language,” said Michael McCann, a sports law expert at the University of New Hampshire. McCann noted that a buyer could try to challenge the language under state consumer protection laws, but it would be an uphill battle.

A father’s regrets

Pape Ndaw is crestfallen that the high school graduation gift he got for his son — tickets for them to see the Netherlands and Japan near their home city of Dallas — never arrived.

He bought the tickets for about $550 apiece in December. Then, two days before the June 14 match, he received an email from StubHub telling him, “The seller can’t deliver your original tickets.”

Ndaw accepted store credit rather than a refund, thinking he would use the funds to quickly get replacements, only to then realize that the cheapest last-minute tickets were going for more than $1,500 each. Not only were they not going to get to go to the game, but Ndaw said StubHub rejected his belated request for a refund instead of store credit.

Breaking the news to his soccer-obsessed son was brutal, Ndaw said.

“It was a disastrous thing,” he said. “He had told all his friends that he was going to that game. He literally cried. I mean, he is a 17-year-old kid, but he cried.”

Others fared somewhat better

Patrick O’Neil of Pittsboro traveled to Atlanta with his wife, son and relatives after purchasing ve tickets through StubHub for the Spain-Cape Verde match. Two tickets transferred successfully, but three never arrived.

O’Neil’s 15-year-old son and his uncle ended up using the two tickets, while O’Neil, his wife and another relative watched from a nearby bar.

After local media caught wind of their ordeal, O’Neil said StubHub contacted the family and o ered tickets to another game. Since the family had already bought tickets to one, though, he and his wife asked the company to instead give the seats to local nonprofit Soccer in the Streets so they could go to people who otherwise might not be able to attend a match.

“StubHub is not evil, but they’re part of the whole system that makes it really hard for just normal kids and people who might want to see a match get to go,” O’Neil said.

Last week, a StubHub representative con rmed to the AP that the company would honor the O’Neils’ request and send tickets to the nonpro t.

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.

R.J. RICO / AP PHOTO

Patrick O’Neil, his wife, Gina Di no, right, and their 15-year-old son, Aidan, attend the World Cup match between Czechia and South Africa in Atlanta on last Thursday

EMILIE MEGNIEN / AP PHOTO

Bina Ramroop holds proof of the ticket she bought through StubHub for the World Cup match between Spain and Cape Verde in Atlanta on June 15.

HOKE SPORTS

Hoke soccer nds success at Bodyarmor State Games

The Lady Bucks went undefeated and unscored upon, while the boys earned bronze

North State Journal sta

THE SCHOOL YEAR may be over, but Hoke County’s soccer teams are still very busy.

The boys’ varsity and JV joined the girls’ team in competing in the 39th annual Bodyarmor

State Games of North Carolina competition last week.

The Hoke girls not only went undefeated but also didn’t give up a goal in their tournament. Hoke opened play with a 5-0 win over West Iredell then battled Forbush to a scoreless draw. The following day, Hoke wrapped up play with a 1-0 blanking in a rematch with Forbush.

On the boys’ side, the varsity and junior varsity Bucks

squads both took third place nishes. The varsity started o with a 6-3 win over Northeastern, then lost 4-3 to AC Reynolds. After a 3-1 loss to Asheboro, the Bucks evened their record with a 1-0 win over Hillside.

The JV team lost to West Iredell in the opener, by a 2-0 margin. They then battled Northeastern FC II to a 1-1 tie. They nished play with a loss to Thomasville.

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Hoke County girls’ soccer

Hoke County girls’ soccer will look to improve on last season’s 8-11-4 record, and the rst glimpse of the Lady Bucks over the summer seems to bode well. Hoke competed in the 39th annual Bodyarmor State Games of North Carolina competition last week and were dominant in winning the soccer tournament. Hoke went unbeaten in three games and didn’t give up a goal, taking rst place with a plus-six goal di erential.

SIDELINE REPORT

NBA Sweeney takes over in Orlando, says Magic convinced him t was right Orlando, Fla.

Sean Sweeney landed interviews for more than a few NBA head coaching vacancies over the last few years, and many of them seemed the same. Talking to Orlando, he said, was di erent. Sweeney was introduced last Thursday as the new coach of the Magic, which was the obvious proof that he won them over by his answers during the interview process. Turns out, the Magic won him over with their questions as well.

MLB

Ohtani, in Instagram post, announces second child

Los Angeles Shohei Ohtani is a father again. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar has shared the news on his Instagram account. He and his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, expressed joy over the safe birth and thanked supporters. A photo of tiny feet and a blue blanket suggest he has a son to go with his daughter, who was born in April 2025. Ohtani missed last Friday’s game when the team placed him on paternity leave. Ohtani was back in the lineup in the leado spot for Saturday’s game.

SWIMMING

Douglass breaks women’s 50-meter freestyle world record in 23.59

Indianapolis

Kate Douglass has broken the world record in the women’s 50-meter freestyle at the Tyr Pro Swim Series meet in Indianapolis. She won the nal in 23.59 seconds, bettering Sarah Sjostrom’s mark of 23.61 set in July 2023. Sjostrom had held the seven fastest times in history. Gretchen Walsh was second in 23.78, making her the fourth-fastest performer ever. Anna Moesch nished third in 24.30. Douglass says her time is faster than she ever expected.

The two Hoke County boys’ soccer teams show o their bronze medals from the state games.

World Cup ticket buyers left stranded as resale purchases fall through

Some sellers list tickets before owning them, betting on price drops

By R.J. Rico and Emilie Megnien The Associated Press

ATLANTA — Bina Ramroop broke down in tears when she realized she wasn’t going to get the World Cup tickets she had bought for her grandson’s 13th birthday.

As thousands poured into Atlanta Stadium last Monday to see Spain face Cape Verde in what turned out to be a remarkable scoreless draw, Ramroop stood outside, increasingly stressed as she went back and forth for hours between StubHub representatives on the phone and FIFA representatives in the ticket booth. Each blamed the other.

No one could gure out why the tickets Ramroop bought months ago on StubHub for $485 apiece couldn’t be transferred from the original seller to the FIFA ticketing app. StubHub o ered her a refund and, as Ramroop heard the crowd roar for the start of the match, she knew she had no choice but to give up and take the o er.

“I didn’t want a refund, I didn’t want my money back,” Ramroop said. “I wanted to go to the game.”

The World Cup has delivered thrills on the pitch, but fans have ooded social media with complaints about tickets that never arrived, orders that were canceled at the last minute and hours they spent trying to sort out problems between FIFA’s ticketing system and outside resale platforms. The vast majority seem to be about industry titan StubHub, but people who bought through competitors such as SeatGeek and Vivid Seats have also reported issues. Interviews with fans and industry experts show that some cases stem from technical glitches in the transfer process, while others could involve sellers who never had tickets to deliver in the rst place, though StubHub denies such sales happen on its platform.

A grandmother’s disappointment

FIFA has urged fans to buy resale tickets through its own marketplace, where it slaps a 30% surcharge on every resold ticket — 15% each from the buyer and seller. But many fans bought through other resale sites, either out of habit or because those sites have lower prices or are easier to navigate. Ramroop didn’t realize she was taking a risk when she bought through StubHub, which she had used in the past without issues.

As she and her grandson Eli-

jah Gomes took the long, lonely train ride back to the Atlanta suburbs, Elijah followed the score on his phone. The match had ended scoreless, and he tried to cheer up his devastated grandmother by telling her they hadn’t missed much after all (Cape Verdeans would beg to di er).

“He’s telling me, ‘Grandma, it’s OK, Grandma.’ And he’s trying to console me,” Ramroop said the next day.

She was hardly alone. An Associated Press journalist witnessed more than a dozen frustrated fans at the match who said they were stuck in similar situations.

StubHub blamed FIFA for the transfer problems that buyers like Ramroop have experienced.

In a statement, it said FIFA has “poor technology infrastructure,” enacted last-minute transfer restrictions and didn’t launch its new ticketing app until a few weeks before the tournament. The company also called out or-

ganizers that “take anti-competitive actions” that limit where fans can buy and sell tickets. Asked about the technical issues, FIFA last week reiterated that sales through its o cial site are guaranteed to go through.

An industry’s longstanding problem

Industry observers say the problems appear to stem from more than one cause. For some, it may indeed be technical glitches — an issue that StubHub says is “very, very rare” and one that it is hard at work to solve. For others, they say it’s likely a more longstanding scourge: speculative sellers.

Scott Friedman, an industry veteran and co-founder of a consultancy called the Ticket Talk Network, said some sellers list tickets before they actually have them, betting that prices will fall closer to the event so they can buy the tickets at a better price later. But because World Cup

“I didn’t want a refund, I didn’t want my money back. I wanted to go to the game.”

Bina Ramroop

ticket prices have surged since the tournament began, those sellers have been forced to either buy expensive tickets to ful ll their orders or cancel and accept penalties from resale platforms. StubHub’s penalties are typically 200% of the ticket price, Friedman said.

“This is not new at all,” said Friedman, pointing to other high-pro le events where frustrated fans were left empty-handed, including Taylor Swift’s Eras tour. “This has been going on, but it’s making global news because it’s the World Cup.”

StubHub says it requires sellers to prove they have tickets before they list them.

But regardless of the reason for the canceled sales, Friedman said “StubHub should ll every single order to make sure fans get in the biggest global sporting event that happens every four years.”

That’s what many fans say they expected when they purchased through StubHub.

StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee promises replacement tickets or a refund if tickets fail to arrive. But the policy repeatedly says those remedies are provided at StubHub’s “sole discretion,” meaning the company can choose a refund instead of securing replacement seats.

“That is pretty explicit language,” said Michael McCann,

a sports law expert at the University of New Hampshire. McCann noted that a buyer could try to challenge the language under state consumer protection laws, but it would be an uphill battle.

A father’s regrets

Pape Ndaw is crestfallen that the high school graduation gift he got for his son — tickets for them to see the Netherlands and Japan near their home city of Dallas — never arrived.

He bought the tickets for about $550 apiece in December. Then, two days before the June 14 match, he received an email from StubHub telling him, “The seller can’t deliver your original tickets.”

Ndaw accepted store credit rather than a refund, thinking he would use the funds to quickly get replacements, only to then realize that the cheapest last-minute tickets were going for more than $1,500 each. Not only were they not going to get to go to the game, but Ndaw said StubHub rejected his belated request for a refund instead of store credit.

Breaking the news to his soccer-obsessed son was brutal, Ndaw said.

“It was a disastrous thing,” he said. “He had told all his friends that he was going to that game. He literally cried. I mean, he is a 17-year-old kid, but he cried.”

Others fared somewhat better

Patrick O’Neil of Pittsboro traveled to Atlanta with his wife, son and relatives after purchasing ve tickets through StubHub for the Spain-Cape Verde match. Two tickets transferred successfully, but three never arrived.

O’Neil’s 15-year-old son and his uncle ended up using the two tickets, while O’Neil, his wife and another relative watched from a nearby bar.

After local media caught wind of their ordeal, O’Neil said StubHub contacted the family and o ered tickets to another game. Since the family had already bought tickets to one, though, he and his wife asked the company to instead give the seats to local nonpro t Soccer in the Streets so they could go to people who otherwise might not be able to attend a match.

“StubHub is not evil, but they’re part of the whole system that makes it really hard for just normal kids and people who might want to see a match get to go,” O’Neil said.

Last week, a StubHub representative con rmed to the AP that the company would honor the O’Neils’ request and send tickets to the nonpro t.

R.J. RICO / AP PHOTO

Patrick O’Neil, his wife, Gina Di no, right, and their 15-year-old son, Aidan, attend the World Cup match between Czechia and South Africa in Atlanta last Thursday.

EMILIE MEGNIEN / AP PHOTO

Bina Ramroop holds proof of the ticket she bought through StubHub for the World Cup match between Spain and Cape Verde in Atlanta on June 15.

obituaries

William Robert Dial

March 2, 1984 –June 13, 2026

William Robert Dial, age 42, of Red Springs, North Carolina, was born on March 2, 1984, to the late Garry Dial and Linda Locklear Dial in Robeson County, North Carolina. He departed this life on June 13, 2026, at UNC Health Southeastern, Lumberton, North Carolina. Along with his father, he was preceded in death by a son, Landon Dial; brother, Kevin Chavis; sister, Crystal Dial; and grandparents, Rev. Claudie Dial and Essie Mae Bryant Dial. William leaves to cherish his memories four sons: William Lathan Dial, William Ray Trouble eld, Randy Dial, Kayden Dial, two daughters: Zada Dial, London Dial, mother: Linda Locklear Dial, four brothers: Blake Locklear (Tammy), Messiah Lowery, Donald Lowery, Maximus Lowery, nieces: Kristy Dial, Aniyah Locklear, nephew: Isaiah Locklear, great nephew: Kameron Dial, a host of uncles, aunts, cousins and other relatives and friends.

Hector Manuel Quinones Sr.

Oct. 7, 1949 – June 16, 2026

Hector Manuel Quinones Sr., of Raeford, NC, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at the age of 76. He was born in Puerto Rico on October 7, 1949, to the late Pedro and Catalina Quinones.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Angel Luis Quinones.

Hector enjoyed staying busy, tinkering, working in his garden, and being outdoors. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and telling stories about his career in the military. He served in the United States Army for many years before retiring.

Hector is survived by his wife of 58 years, Maryellen Brown Quinones; his six children, Maria Bannerman (Antonio), Hector Quinones, Jr., Matilda McCoy (Shawn), Mimi Quinones (Jeremy), Margarita Smith (Esau), and Adrian Quinones (Kuuipo); his thirteen grandchildren; his seven great grandchildren; his three sisters, Esther Jean-Jacques, Noemi Fuscaldo, and Josie Crawford; and a host of other family members who loved him.

A visitation will be held at Crumpler Funeral Home on Saturday, June 27, 2026 from 2:00 pm- 2:30 pm with a service following at 2:30 pm.

Shirley Stevens

Dec. 15, 1957 – June 16, 2026

Ms. Shirley Stevens, age 68, went home to be with her Heavenly Father on Tuesday, June 16, 2026.

The Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at noon at Total Praise and Deliverance. Shirley will be greatly missed.

Eva Mae McGee

Feb. 26, 1941 – June 16, 2026

Mrs. Eva Mae McGee, age 85, went home to be with her Heavenly Father on Tuesday, June 16, 2026. A Memorial service will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 2:00 PM at the Pauline T. Buie Chapel. Eva will be greatly missed.

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in NSJ at obits@northstatejournal.com

Clive Davis, music industry starmaker, dead at 94

He founded Arista Records and J Records, developing major stars across multiple genres

The Associated Press

NEW YORK — Clive Davis, a music industry mogul who launched or resurrected the careers of Janis Joplin, Whitney Houston, Carlos Santana and Alicia Keys, has died. He was 94.

Davis died in his Manhattan apartment, weeks after being hospitalized for an upper respiratory issue, his publicist Aliza Rabino said.

“To the world, our father was the iconic music legend whose vision, instincts, and relentless pursuit of excellence shaped the soundtrack of countless lives.

He discovered, mentored, and championed the greatest artists in modern music history,” his family’s statement said. Davis’ in uence grew since the 1960s to span genres and labels as he directed the careers of everyone from Barry Manilow to “American Idol” winners Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson. His groundbreaking support for black artists earned him the NAACP’s Vanguard Award. His exclusive pre-Grammys gala has been an institution since he rst threw the party in 1976.

“Clive’s talent has always been seeing and hearing what other people don’t,” former President Barack Obama said in a video message played at this year’s gala.

A Brooklyn background

Clive Jay Davis was born on April 4, 1932 in Brooklyn, New York, the son of a traveling salesman, and attended New York University and then Harvard Law School. He became an in-house lawyer at a time when Columbia Records was resisting rock ’n’ roll. Seven years later, he was company president

and seeking to capitalize on the counterculture spirit he witnessed at the 1967 Monterey International Pop Festival.

His success stories were a staggering who’s who of America’s most iconic and enduring musical acts — with Houston both a crowning achievement and a devastating tragedy. Davis signed her to his Arista record label when she was just a teen and turned her into America’s reigning pop princess.

Houston racked up multiple No. 1 hits before drug abuse hobbled her career. She died in a Beverly Hills hotel room in 2012, hours before Davis’ annual gala downstairs. He had been convinced she was turning her life around.

“Maybe I should have been more skeptical,” Davis wrote in his 2013 memoir, “The Soundtrack of My Life,” “but I’ve always been optimistic, and I felt hopeful. It felt like old times.”

Davis proudly noted the other talents he signed, including Joplin, Bruce Springsteen, Neil Diamond, Billy Joel, Blood Sweat & Tears and other “all-timers,” as he so often put it.

“I signed Patti Smith, the great Renaissance woman ... I signed Lou Reed. ... I signed the Grateful Dead,” he proudly touted in an interview with The Associated Press in 1999.

He also signed the up-and- coming producer Sean “Diddy” Combs, whose Bad Boy Records under Davis scored huge hits, most notably with Notorious B.I.G., long before Diddy landed in prison.

An exec who built lifelong careers

Davis also kept veterans relevant. Aretha Franklin ourished in her later years at Arista as did Luther Vandross at another Davis label, J Records.

It was Davis who conceived of the 1999 album “Supernatural,” pairing guitar god Santana with some of the day’s hottest

talents to win eight Grammys.

And he persuaded middle-aged rocker Rod Stewart to try standards from “The Great American Songbook.” That album, released in 2003, sold millions and was so successful it spawned four titles in all.

His collaborators didn’t always agree — Davis won a bitter ght with producer David Foster over Houston’s all-time hit, a cover of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” — and the song was published with its iconic a cappella intro.

And Manilow strongly objected to recording “I Write the Songs” — a song he didn’t write — but it too became a signature hit. “He’s just brilliant at picking ideas he thinks the public will connect,” raved Manilow. But not an infallible gure

Columbia red Davis in 1973, accusing him of mismanaging funds. Davis pleaded guilty to tax evasion and had to pay a $10,000 ne, but said Columbia funded Arista to resolve the dispute. That label became another huge success, with country superstars Brooks & Dunn, sassy R&B group TLC, Babyface, Houston, Franklin and others.

Arista also signed Milli Vanilli, the male pop duo that was stripped of its best new artist Grammy after revealing they

were lip-syncing their songs. In 1999, Arista’s parent company BMG Entertainment, a division of German media conglomerate Bertelsmann, wanted him to retire. He was ousted despite support from his superstar roster. But BMG then helped Davis launch J Records, where he found his next star in Keys, a piano-playing singer-songwriter whose powerful pipes and dramatic R&B songs would sell millions of Grammy-winning albums. Davis later ran BMG’s U.S. division, guiding “American Idol” winners to platinum albums. Some disagreed with his directions — Clarkson went her own way with “My December” — but she apologized after the album opped. Davis was serving as worldwide chief creative o cer at Sony Music Entertainment at his death. He was married twice, and in his memoir, con rmed he was bisexual and living with a man. His family — including four children — shared a loving statement on Monday, saying they “celebrate not only a towering gure whose in uence changed music forever, but the man who led our family with grace, generosity, and kindness.”

Former AP writer Nekesa Mumbi Moody was the main writer of this obituary.

MARTY REICHENTHAL / AP PHOTO

STATE & NATION

Wine brands chase Gen Z with playful tie-ins to Shark Week, NASCAR, more

Younger drinkers are forcing wine to trade stu ness for sass, a ordability and pop culture moments

By J.M. Hirsch The Associated Press

BOSTON — Which wine pairs well with Shark Week? Does a pinot noir have enough acidity to cut through the grime of a Tough Mudder race? Is a big, brassy cabernet bold enough of a qua for a night of naming dead rodents after an ex?

And is a wine named SEX too provocative or not provocative enough?

Absurd as they may sound, these are the questions haunting wine marketers grappling with slumping sales and increasingly elusive drinkers. How consumers — especially younger drinkers — answer them will determine whether an industry long de ned by fuddy-duddy pretense can nd its footing in 2026 and beyond.

“That self-important way that wine can refer to itself — we’re really trying to tip that on its head,” said Helen Kurtz, chief of marketing for The Wine Group, which hopes that o erings such as its easy-drinking Cupcake Vineyards wines can attract a generation that came of age on Frappuccinos and gas station BuzzBallz.

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding,” she said.

By which she means partnering the company’s MD 20/20 (yes, it’s a wine) with World Wrestling Entertainment matches (“Mad Dog Enters the Ring”), and launching the aptly named Fuel by Franzia line of boxed wine beverages for NASCAR (“Full Throttle Flavor”).

Alcohol consumption has dropped

It’s a fresh lesson on the importance of nding your customer rather than hoping they nd you. Because almost across the board, alcohol consumption is down, a trend that accelerated post-pandemic. A host of factors is at play, including aging Boomers seeking healthier lifestyles, Gen Z’s gravitation to low- and no-alcohol beverages, and widening availability of alternatives such as marijuana.

Each segment of the alcohol industry — valued at around $560 billion in the U.S. — is responding di erently. Hard liquor, for example, has found a rare growth category in ready-to-drink canned cocktails. But the wine industry faces its own constellation of challenges, many of its own making.

For anyone new to wine particularly much-coveted 20-somethings — nding one’s

way can be daunting, something of a Château du Stu y e ect.

“You’ve got a bunch of things, what you might call friction points with wine that are particularly salient to younger consumers,” including cost and drinkability, said Christian Miller, director of research for the Wine Market Council.

A pretentious image keeps some customers away

Wine, from the labels to the language used to describe it, historically has leaned pricy and pretentious (looking at

you, “notes of asphalt and barnyard”). Wine trends also have favored boozy and bracing styles, a hard sell for folks used to sipping hard seltzers at the club. Fewer than a third of Gen Z households own a corkscrew, according to a trends report by the British household products company Lakeland. Even simply trying a wine comes with a gatekeeper: Hard liquor is easy to sample at a bar or as single-shot nips; most wine requires a full-bottle commitment.

A cadre of wineries has begun pushing the bounds of wine culture by ditching the fussy façade in favor of a sassy

vibe and accessible language.

Price matters too (the sweet spot seems to be the $8 to $20 a bottle range), but not nearly so much as the message.

It’s about using contemporary communication to pitch “something that’s been made for centuries,” said Charles Smith, founder of House of Smith, the company behind younger, shopper-friendly brands such as Kung Fu Girl Riesling and SEX Rosé. “My mantra is always to communicate the language of wine to everyone because not everyone speaks wine. The wine should be a re ection of the consumer who is going to buy it.”

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding.”

Helen Kurtz, Chief of Marketing, The Wine Group

Can tie-ins to pop culture make wine more relatable?

Bogle Family Wine Collection has leaned in with its Juggernaut Wines. Adorned with almost graphically violent labels showcasing alpha predators — a shark, a grizzly, an orca, a lion and some sort of particularly angry bird of prey — the bottles are a far cry from the placid villas and languorous ladies plastered across so many wines.

The other side of it is getting those bottles into spaces not traditionally associated with wine, said Jessica LaBounty, the company’s marketing director. For two years, Juggernaut has announced “Adventure awaits” as it sponsored the grueling Tough Mudder races. They’ve also done placements at zoos that host nights where people can name dead rodents and insects after former partners and feed them to the animals. Cheers…?

And this year, it’s Discovery network’s Shark Week. Juggernaut’s chardonnay label sports an especially snappish great white and “just the right amount of bite.”

“The viewer base of Shark Week lines up really, really nicely with who we know our consumer to be,” LaBounty said. “It’s another way to meet them where they are already versus kind of asking them to come to us.”

Learning to speak

Gen Z is key

The goal is to bridge a generational divide in which wine got lost. Younger drinkers don’t and won’t talk about wine the way older drinkers do. To point, there’s a clever social media meme about a Millennial marketing team pitching wine vs. a Gen Z social media team. The Millennial e ort goes on at length about terroir and full-bodied avors. Gen Z’s pitch? “it’s giving… yummy”.

Vibe is everything for Bread & Butter Wines, with the tagline, “Don’t overthink it.” As in, pair their red blend with a candy charcuterie board. Or their pinot noir with a Thanksgiving leftovers sandwich. Want fries with that? Try their prosecco.

“The No. 1 goal is to disrupt the shelf because it is so crowded,” said Caitlin Ward, brand and digital marketing director.

“Sassiness is a way to do that.”

J.M. Hirsch is a longtime food writer who was food editor of The Associated Press for nearly a decade until 2016.

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of pinot noir wines, from left, Josh Cellars Reserve, Juggernaut and Chloe, sit on shelves at a grocery store in Concord, New Hampshire, on June 8.

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of California red wines from Line 39, from left, Cupcake Vineyards and Snoop Dogg’s 19 Crimes Cali Red, are displayed on a Concord, New Hampshire, grocery store shelf.

Cloudset

WHAT’S HAPPENING

8 convicted of terrorism charges in Texas immigration center shooting sentenced to decades in prison

Fort Worth, Texas

A demonstrator who shot and wounded a police o cer during a protest outside a Texas immigration center July 4, 2025, has been sentenced to 100 years in federal prison. Other protesters also accused of having links to antifa were sentenced Tuesday to multiple decades in federal prison. A federal jury in March found the eight defendants guilty of providing material support to terrorists and other charges. Prosecutors say the eight took part in a demonstration at the Prairieland Detention Center last July 4 in which a police o cer was shot and wounded. The defendants deny any a liation with the far-left anti-fascist organization.

Trump administration announces $17.5 billion in loans for 10 new large nuclear reactors

The Trump administration is providing $17.5 billion to speed the development of 10 new large nuclear reactors to meet the skyrocketing power demand from massive data centers. The Energy Department announced the loans Tuesday. Energy Secretary Chris Wright cited “tremendous interest” among developers of data centers, called hyperscalers, who would buy the power, as well as utilities and energy companies.

Watch Duty, re tracking app used by millions, expands to help monitor dangerous oods

The nonpro t’s volunteer reporters consolidate emergency information from multiple sources faster than o cial channels

By Gabriela Aoun Angueira The Associated Press

WHEN A FIRE broke out a few miles from his Altadena, California, home the evening of Jan. 7, 2025, Matt Blea and his family needed to make

a crucial decision: Should they stay home or evacuate?

A friend who did mountain rescue told Blea to download a free app called Watch Duty.

On the app, he could see the re’s perimeter, track evacuation orders and read updates about the emergency response.

“It in uenced me to leave the home sooner than later,” said Blea, who left with his wife and son that evening before the Eaton Fire destroyed their home.

Blea was one of more than

2.5 million people who used Watch Duty to track res burning across Los Angeles County that week. The information was collected, vetted and disseminated by about two dozen Watch Duty sta and more than 100 volunteers who monitored emergency radio tra c, aircraft reports and local agency communications.

The service proved vital, said David Hertz, a Malibu resident and captain of his community’s re brigade, especially when some areas received little-to-no warning

about the Eaton and Palisades res that killed 31 people. “It’s like a democratization of data that empowers people.”

This month, Watch Duty began helping people track another deadly and destructive climate hazard: ooding.

The expansion comes as peak ash ood season begins in the U.S. and nearly one year after last July’s deadly Texas oods that killed more than 130 people, prompting outcry over why Texas Hill Country

See FLOODS, page A2

The president claimed vandals have damaged the pool’s new coating as authorities make multiple arrests

By Nathan Ellgren and Bill Barrow The Associated Press

WASHINGTON, D.C. — National Guard members and U.S. Park Police patrolled the deck around the Lincoln Memorial Re ecting Pool on Monday as President Donald Trump’s administration faces a self-imposed deadline to x a botched renovation before the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration. The patrols came two days after Trump said authorities had made “multiple arrests” of people he insisted were responsible for

x. Without o er-

ing substantiation, he also said vandals dumped fertilizer in the pool and slashed the coating with a box cutter. But the timeline was not clear Monday, with the White House saying damaged areas

“I’m a curious citizen. I reached down to see what it felt like. It was very rubbery.”

David Hearn, former Olympic canoe racer

are still being assessed. Contractors and federal workers in recent days have been using chemicals and ozone nanobubbles to combat the algae. Trump pitched the original improvements as intended to clean, beautify and reinforce an iconic site that he said had become dilapidated and dirty because of previous presidents’ neglect. Algae has plagued the pool for a century, and Trump insisted a newly installed “American ag blue” coating, which he selected

See POOL, page A2

DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

The sky o ers a perfect view from the 17th hole of Pinehurst No. 3 late on the evening of June 16.

JON ELSWICK / AP PHOTO

A piece of the blue coating oats among algae at the Lincoln Memorial Re ecting Pool on Sunday on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

THURSDAY

6.25.26

“Join the conversation”

North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365)

Trip Ho end, Publisher

Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers

Cory Lavalette, Senior Editor

Jordan Golson, Local News Editor

Shawn Krest, Sports Editor

Dan Reeves, Features Editor

Ryan Henkel, Reporter PJ Ward-Brown, Photographer

BUSINESS

David Guy, Advertising Manager

Published each Thursday as part of North State Journal

1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 919-663-3232

We stand corrected To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.

FLOODS from page A1

residents and visitors didn’t receive better communication about the impending danger.

“This is painful that this keeps happening,” said John Mills, CEO and co-founder of the donor-supported nonprofit behind the app. “We’re not spreading enough information fast enough on as many channels as humanly possible.” Mills built app after his own close calls

Mills founded Watch Duty in 2021 after not receiving ofcial alerts or evacuation instructions when a re burned near his Northern California home.

It’s a problem seen in many recent disasters. While the U.S. has systems for sending alerts by text, radio and other means, the process to issue a specific warning or evacuation order can get tangled in bureaucracy and often depends on humans making di cult decisions under pressure.

Often the information people need to understand their risk is out there, Mills said, but it is hard to nd and use.

POOL from page A1

himself, would turn the pool into a gleaming expanse along the National Mall. Yet within weeks of Trump declaring the rehabilitation completed in time for Independence Day, the water was plagued by a vivid green algae bloom that clouded the pool’s coating. A piece of liner, about 4 square feet, was observed Friday partially oating in the pool. The Associated Press saw additional pieces in the water Monday.

Via social media, the president has blamed the problems

June 15

• Nicholas Peter Meserve, 31, of Carthage, was arrested by MCSO for felony larceny.

June 16

• Jonathan Giovanny Cordero-Rivera, 35, of Fayetteville, was arrested by MCSO for exploitation of a disabled or elder adult, obtaining property by false pretense and felony conspiracy.

• Corey Tyler Hussey, 26, of Robbins, was arrested by MCSO for eeing to elude arrest with a motor vehicle, possession of methamphetamine and obtaining property by false pretense, and other charges.

• Antonio Lenell Wilson, 32, of Fayetteville, was arrested by MCSO for felony possession of a controlled substance and simple possession of a controlled substance.

June 17

• Randy James Brigman, 57, of Rockingham, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for aiding and abetting larceny.

• Morgan Ashley Daniel, 28, of Raleigh, was arrested by MCSO for cyberstalking.

• Andrew Karl Dougherty, 43, of Sanford, was arrested by Whispering Pines PD for assault in icting physical injury on a law enforcement, probation or parole o cer; violating a domestic violence protection order; and resisting a public o cer.

• Daniel Nehemias Marquina, 22, of Fayetteville, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for driving while impaired, reckless driving and injury to personal property, and other charges.

• Wendi Murray McBride, 57, of Seagrove, was arrested by MCSO for tra cking in methamphetamine; possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver methamphetamine; and possession of methamphetamine, and other charges.

• Jamie Dawn Scott, 49, of Star, was arrested by MCSO for possession of methamphetamine, simple possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia, and other charges.

“The systems are really struggling to meet people where they are,” he said. On re days, Mills found himself relying on volunteer radio operators who monitored scanners during emergencies and posted updates on social media. The posts helped, but social media had downsides — including how misinformation and unrelated content could drown out life-or-death updates.

A software engineer and entrepreneur, Mills recruited some of those volunteers and fellow engineers to build an answer. He made Watch Duty a nonpro t, which has helped build trust with its more than 20 million users. It received nearly $6 million in grants and donations in 2025.

Watch Duty puts emergency information in one place

Watch Duty now has about 300 volunteer “reporters” who collate and vet information from radio scanners, cameras, satellites, user-generated content and public announcements. Information is available in ve languages and pushed

on “SICK, DERANGED PEOPLE!” He asserted Monday on Truth Social that intentional damages include a “300 foot long gash” and that “chemicals have been illegally placed in the water.” A day earlier, Trump posted, “Work will begin immediately on xing the seriously vandalized Re ecting Pool.” At an executive order signing Monday, the president said ve people had been arrested and ve more were under suspicion, and he de ected blame for the pool’s maintenance issues. “I can’t help it if somebody goes in with a knife and starts hacking it up,” he said.

• David Randall Sta ord, 63, of Aberdeen, was arrested by MCSO for violating a domestic violence protection order.

June 18

• Corey Alonzo Dumas, 29, of Eagle Springs, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for being intoxicated and disruptive.

• Owen Edward Shockley, 61, of Parkton, was arrested by Pinehurst PD for assault on a female and cyberstalking.

• Jerrold Bernard Smith, 57, of Carthage, was arrested by MCSO for possession of a rearm by a felon.

June 19

• Deonte Marquez Chambers, 33, of Candor, was arrested by MCSO for possession of a rearm by a felon; possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a controlled substance; and felony possession of a controlled substance, and other charges.

• John Eric Martin, 62, of Seagrove, was arrested by MCSO for simple possession of a controlled substance and failure to maintain lane control.

• Lavonnie Little Simmons, 47, of Pineblu , was arrested by MCSO for misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

June 20

• Thomas Gerome Goldston, 49, of Eagle Springs, was arrested by MCSO for indecent exposure in the presence of a minor and indecent exposure.

• Dyshea Zhane Little, 32, of Mount Gilead, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for driving while impaired and driving on a revoked license.

• Carmen Qunitero Reyes, 39, of Sanford, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for speeding, reckless driving and driving on a revoked license.

June 21

• Owen Carrizo Quinter, 19, of Thomasville, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for driving after consuming alcohol under age 21, window tinting violation and failure to illuminate headlamps.

out through maps, text feeds, and push noti cations that can sound even when phones are silenced.

“You’re not going to have to go to multiple other entities, to the weather service, emergency management website, county website,” said Watch Duty meteorologist Pete Curran. “It’s in one place, in plain language, and it’s going to wake you up if you’re asleep.”

Watch Duty can sometimes push out information faster than local agencies in part because its reporters have only one role to ll, said Curran, a retired re ghter. “Our only responsibility is to watch and listen. We’re not in charge of the incident.”

The nonpro t took on ooding next because of its widespread impact.

“We are seeing crazy rainfall in places that it’s not normal for them,” said Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. Fire Administrator under President Joe Biden and longtime data scientist who is now a Watch Duty board member. “Maybe it’s never happened before, but it’s happening now, so you need to be aware.”

The app pulls weather mod-

He has not backed up those claims, and even if anyone has deliberately peeled or cut the lining, that would not explain the algae bloom that appeared more intensely than what typically occurred before the renovation.

Images showing that Trump’s project apparently back red boomeranged across social media last week, drawing crowds of onlookers eager to see the effects themselves. An unknown number ended up being detained by federal authorities.

One man arrested was David Hearn, 67, of Bethesda, Maryland. A former Olympic canoe

moore happening

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County.

June 25

Jason Scott & The High Heat

7:30-9:30 p.m.

Live music performed by the Oklahoma band with a distinct sound formed by combining the genres of Americana soul, rock and country. Tickets are $35 to $49.

Sunrise Theater 250 NW Broad St. Southern Pines

June 26

Christmas in July at the Airport 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Santa Claus is bringing Christmas fun to summer at this community celebration that includes Storytime with Santa, hands-on craft stations, and the chance for children to see a local re truck and visit with re ghters. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged.

7825 Aviation Drive Carthage

Pop Up in the Pines Night Market

5-9 p.m.

The monthly gathering, featuring local vendors, food trucks, live musical performances and craft beer, has become a community tradition.

Rec Room Bar & Arcade

750 SW Broad St. Southern Pines

eling and other data from the National Weather Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and U.S. Geological Survey. Users can view NWS ood warnings and watches, river gauge levels, and notices of possible dam or levee failures.

Users can also better understand their risk ahead of time. They can see whether they’re in a FEMA-designated ood area, or what levels on a river gauge would indicate danger, and customize noti cations to be alerted if a gauge reached a certain height.

Preparation, redundancy enhance safety

Despite Watch Duty’s explosive growth, a phone app can’t solve all the challenges with informing the public during emergencies.

“I love seeing products like this come out, but one thing we know to be true in the Texas oods, is a warning is only as good as the knowledge to do something about it,” said Chad Berginnis, executive director of the Association of State Floodplain Managers. The ASFPM recommends

racer, Hearn told The Associated Press that he reached into the pool because he wanted to examine the peeling new coating. He said he brie y touched a chunk that was still attached to the side of the pool, then let go shortly after a park worker told him to. Hearn said he was then detained by National Guard troops and Park Police for ve hours before being released Friday night. “I’m a curious citizen,” Hearn said in a telephone interview. “I reached down to see what it felt like. It was very rubbery.”

The Park Police did not immediately respond Monday to

knowing how to reach an evacuation zone and not just having an emergency plan, but practicing it. “One of the massive failures is not knowing what to do,” said Berginnis.

The national infrastructure for monitoring weather and alerting the public is also at risk from past and proposed funding cuts to federal agencies and local emergency warning systems. “At the end of the day, if you want eyes and ears out there, you’ve got to pay for it,” said Berginnis.

Mills stressed Watch Duty is not meant to replace the work of weather and emergency agencies.

“We need National Weather Service, we need re service, we need all this infrastructure to operate,” he said, adding users should still enroll in their local alerting system.

And of course, a phone app is only helpful to those who download it, and who have cell coverage to use it.

“You have to have redundancy,” said Berginnis, adding that an inexpensive NOAA weather radio can ll in when other systems fail. “Sometimes we get so focused on tech, we forget the easy stu .”

AP’s questions about how many arrests were made and whether any charges had been led. Washington’s Metropolitan Police Department said Monday that the agency is not involved. The White House said Monday that any arrests have been made only by the U.S. Park Police. It was not immediately apparent what criminal or civil violation someone might commit reaching into the pool. Trump, in one of his Truth Social posts, cited laws against defacing monuments as grounds for imprisoning anyone harming the pool.

THE CONVERSATION

Trip Ho end, publisher | Frank Hill,

senior

opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH

Hillary is right

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president.

IN A NEW INTERVIEW this week, Hillary Clinton identi ed the key decision that resulted in President Donald Trump’s election in 2024. It all boiled down, in her view, to a “terrible miscalculation” — former President Joseph R. Biden Jr.’s decision to run for reelection. Biden made a “terrible mistake for himself, his legacy and for the country” in deciding to seek reelection at the age of 81. Had he decided to “pass the torch” and the Democratic Party had held a competitive nomination process, “whoever emerged from that contest — whether it was the vice president, or a governor, or a senator or anybody else — would have beaten Donald Trump.” Or, I would add, they would have had a better chance than Biden did. Joe and Jill Biden clearly live in a state of denial with respect to Joe’s unpopularity. In some respects, it’s understandable: He wasn’t a bad president and he left the country in better shape than it is now. So why shouldn’t Jill think that even though she was afraid her husband was having a stroke during the debate with Trump, he should stay in the race and if he had, they both seem to believe, he would have beaten Trump. It’s delusional thinking that must have

been reinforced by the deep-seated loyalty of those who had been around him for so long. Sadly, the cost of that delusional thinking is being borne around the world.

The Democratic Party is still struggling to gure out what went wrong. The uno cial o cial autopsy report, which the Party commissioned and then disowned, studiously avoided any criticism of Biden’s decision to seek reelection, which cast doubt on the rest of the report.

Of course, the question remains: Was Kamala Harris the right candidate? That’s the one that even Clinton avoided, pointing out that Harris would have been a stronger candidate if she’d emerged from a competitive process. But would she have? Emerged from a competitive process, that is. Harris was the vice president for an unpopular president. She was caught between defending the indefensible and attacking her own administration. She never gured out how to walk that line in the general election and there’s no reason to think it would have been easier in the primaries.

The simple fact that Democrats need to accept is that Americans preferred the convicted felon to the vice president. They got

Not following the example of President James K. Polk

What if you have been clearly winning a war, by any military de nition, and yet the other side doesn’t surrender?

A PRESIDENT orders the onset of hostilities — war — without authorization of Congress and without much in the way of making a case with the public. His troops win important victories and decapitate large parts of the government of the enemy. But in the enemy capital, no one surrenders or will even negotiate seriously.

That leaves the president with the unhappy choice of launching a new military attack on the central focus of the enemy, one riskier and less certain of success than those before, or of declaring an incomplete victory, well short of his essential objective, and just getting the heck out of there.

One president in American history chose the risky rst option and, despite missteps along the way, secured major gains for the country, even if he ultimately fell short of the broader goals that emerged during the con ict. A more recent president has chosen the second option, though the results are still unclear.

Both presidents faced this basic problem: What if you have been clearly winning a war, by any military de nition, and yet the other side doesn’t surrender? Even worse, what if it’s unclear just who is making decisions on the other side and what their goal is?

At this point, it should be clear who one of the presidents is and which power he has chosen to attack and back o : President Donald Trump and the regime of Iran. The other is James Knox Polk, who served as speaker of the House in the 1830s and governor of Tennessee in the 1840s.

Polk pledged to serve just one term. He told historian and Cabinet member George Bancroft that he would pursue just four goals: set up an independent treasury, lower tari s, take uni ed control of the Oregon Territory and take possession of California.

He succeeded at all four in just four years. But not without di culty and controversy.

The treasury and the lower tari s he squeezed out of a Congress with a majority of his fellow

Democrats. Oregon he got after splitting the territory with Britain (which got British Columbia). For California, however, he had to go to war.

There was then some dispute about the borders of recently annexed Texas. Polk ordered Gen. Zachary Taylor to lead troops across the Nueces River to the Rio Grande, claimed by Mexico. Mexican troops attacked Taylor’s Americans.

With American bloodshed on American soil, Polk called on Congress to declare war. Although one-third of members had qualms, they voted for war with Mexico. Taylor then proceeded to beat Mexican troops in multiple battles near the border. But in the capital of Mexico City, or among o -and-on leader Santa Anna’s entourage, no one was negotiating. The great mass of Mexicans lived far south of the U.S. border and weren’t inclined to surrender.

What could Polk, eager to secure rights to California, do? In e ect, he started a second war, ordering Gen. Win eld Scott to land troops at Veracruz and proceed across 11,000-foot mountains, near the route of Cortes three centuries before, to reach Mexico City. It worked. In a feat of generalship praised by the aged Duke of Wellington, Scott beat the elusive Santa Anna, got his successor to surrender, and helped Nicholas Trist negotiate a treaty netting one-third of Mexican territory (but only 90,000 of its citizens). Polk, greedy for more land as Scott headed inland, wanted more and red Trist, but when presented with his treaty, he sent it to the Senate, which quickly rati ed it.

Trump’s actions were driven more by anger over Iran’s 1979 seizure of U.S. diplomats than by any goal as speci c as Polk’s. Still, the joint U.S.-Israel attacks during the June 2025 12-day war seriously degraded Iran’s nuclear program and set it back.

His attacks this year, starting in February, further degraded Iran’s nuclear program and, with pinpoint accuracy, killed the supreme leader

to see them both, up close. Harris ran a better campaign than she gets credit for. She did put her best foot forward. She was well- nanced. Experienced strategists surrounded her. She did not use a private email server, as Clinton did. She did not have investigators nipping at her heels, the way Clinton did. It was, considering everything, a smooth run. She just didn’t win. I have yet to hear any explanation for why she’s a stronger candidate today than she was in 2024, and she would need to be a stronger candidate to defeat a Marco Rubio, for instance. Harris is leading in most, although not all, of the early polls, but that is a matter of name recognition; perhaps more signi cant is the fact that a majority of Democrats, at this stage, favor candidates other than Harris. And Harris has done almost nothing since the election to distinguish herself as the Party’s leader.

Soon enough, we will be hearing more, not only from Gavin Newsom, who is already out there (and being investigated for it), but from Pritzker and Shapiro and Buttigieg, not to mention Jon Osso , Ro Khanna and AOC. The nomination process is awed in many ways, but at least it’s a test, one that Harris will be forced to pass this time.

Susan Estrich is a lawyer, legal scholar, and political commentator.

(Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

and dozens of subordinates. He in icted great damage on Iran’s weaponry and its economy.

But the mullahs in Tehran, like the leaders in Mexico City, wouldn’t surrender, and they blocked oil tankers from transiting the Strait of Hormuz. Trump was left with two of his goals — higher tari s and zeroing out Iran’s nukes — seeming to produce politically disastrous high in ation.

So Trump decided not to follow the path of Polk. Amid occasional military attacks, he sought a “deal” with a regime that has paraded its hatred of America for 47 years and has made dozens of promises it has no intention of keeping.

In its latest iteration, the administration has been sluggish in revealing the details. The U.S. will be suspending military action and allowing Iran to freely sell oil, e ectively paying the regime billions. In return, Iran promises to negotiate about its nuclear program and to allow tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, if they pay tolls.

Not much better, you might say, than the “deal” former President Barack Obama negotiated with Iran in 2015, which Trump criticized bitterly then but doesn’t mention so much now. Vice President JD Vance says that Iranian leaders have decided they shouldn’t oppose “the Great Satan” as they have for 47 years, though that would be less incredible (though not very credible) coming from the Iranians themselves.

Perhaps Trump believes he can intimidate Iran’s evil leaders not to do things he doesn’t want, the way he has apparently intimidated Venezuela’s not-so-savory leaders. But it’s not clear that such intimidation is working optimally in the geographically closer, culturally more similar Caribbean, and, inevitably, heading into the second half of his last term, Trump’s ire is a waning asset. Neither his vice president nor any possible Democratic successor is likely to share it.

“If you set out to take Vienna, take Vienna,” Napoleon is supposed to have said. Setting out to take Tehran may or may not have been a mistake. Setting out to take Tehran and then not taking it almost clearly is.

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)

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

World Cup ticket buyers left stranded as resale purchases fall through

Some sellers list tickets before owning them, betting on price drops

By R.J. Rico and Emilie Megnien The Associated Press

ATLANTA — Bina Ramroop broke down in tears when she realized she wasn’t going to get the World Cup tickets she had bought for her grandson’s 13th birthday.

As thousands poured into Atlanta Stadium last Monday to see Spain face Cape Verde in what turned out to be a remarkable scoreless draw, Ramroop stood outside, increasingly stressed as she went back and forth for hours between StubHub representatives on the phone and FIFA representatives in the ticket booth. Each blamed the other.

No one could gure out why the tickets Ramroop bought months ago on StubHub for $485 apiece couldn’t be transferred from the original seller to the FIFA ticketing app. StubHub o ered her a refund and, as Ramroop heard the crowd roar for the start of the match, she knew she had no choice but to give up and take the o er.

“I didn’t want a refund, I didn’t want my money back,” Ramroop said. “I wanted to go to the game.”

The World Cup has delivered thrills on the pitch, but fans have ooded social media with complaints about tickets that never arrived, orders that were canceled at the last minute and hours they spent trying to sort out problems between FIFA’s ticketing system and outside resale platforms. The vast majority seem to be about industry titan StubHub, but people who bought through competitors such as SeatGeek and Vivid Seats have also reported issues. Interviews with fans and industry experts show that some cases stem from technical glitches in the transfer process, while others could involve sellers who never had tickets to deliver in the rst place, though StubHub denies such sales happen on its platform.

A grandmother’s disappointment

FIFA has urged fans to buy resale tickets through its own marketplace, where it slaps a 30% surcharge on every resold ticket — 15% each from the buyer and seller. But many fans bought through other resale sites, either out of habit or because those sites have lower prices or are easier to navigate. Ramroop didn’t realize she was taking a risk when she bought through StubHub, which she had used in the past without issues.

As she and her grandson Eli-

jah Gomes took the long, lonely train ride back to the Atlanta suburbs, Elijah followed the score on his phone. The match had ended scoreless, and he tried to cheer up his devastated grandmother by telling her they hadn’t missed much after all (Cape Verdeans would beg to di er).

“He’s telling me, ‘Grandma, it’s OK, Grandma.’ And he’s trying to console me,” Ramroop said the next day.

She was hardly alone. An Associated Press journalist witnessed more than a dozen frustrated fans at the match who said they were stuck in similar situations.

StubHub blamed FIFA for the transfer problems that buyers like Ramroop have experienced.

In a statement, it said FIFA has “poor technology infrastructure,” enacted last-minute transfer restrictions and didn’t launch its new ticketing app until a few weeks before the tournament. The company also called out or-

ganizers that “take anti-competitive actions” that limit where fans can buy and sell tickets. Asked about the technical issues, FIFA last week reiterated that sales through its o cial site are guaranteed to go through.

An industry’s longstanding problem

Industry observers say the problems appear to stem from more than one cause. For some, it may indeed be technical glitches — an issue that StubHub says is “very, very rare” and one that it is hard at work to solve. For others, they say it’s likely a more longstanding scourge: speculative sellers.

Scott Friedman, an industry veteran and co-founder of a consultancy called the Ticket Talk Network, said some sellers list tickets before they actually have them, betting that prices will fall closer to the event so they can buy the tickets at a better price later. But because World Cup

“I

didn’t want a refund, I didn’t want my money back. I wanted to go to the game.”

Bina Ramroop

ticket prices have surged since the tournament began, those sellers have been forced to either buy expensive tickets to ful ll their orders or cancel and accept penalties from resale platforms. StubHub’s penalties are typically 200% of the ticket price, Friedman said.

“This is not new at all,” said Friedman, pointing to other high-pro le events where frustrated fans were left empty-handed, including Taylor Swift’s Eras tour. “This has been going on, but it’s making global news because it’s the World Cup.”

StubHub says it requires sellers to prove they have tickets before they list them.

But regardless of the reason for the canceled sales, Friedman said “StubHub should ll every single order to make sure fans get in the biggest global sporting event that happens every four years.”

That’s what many fans say they expected when they purchased through StubHub.

StubHub’s FanProtect Guarantee promises replacement tickets or a refund if tickets fail to arrive. But the policy repeatedly says those remedies are provided at StubHub’s “sole discretion,” meaning the company can choose a refund instead of securing replacement seats.

“That is pretty explicit language,” said Michael McCann,

a sports law expert at the University of New Hampshire. McCann noted that a buyer could try to challenge the language under state consumer protection laws, but it would be an uphill battle.

A father’s regrets

Pape Ndaw is crestfallen that the high school graduation gift he got for his son — tickets for them to see the Netherlands and Japan near their home city of Dallas — never arrived.

He bought the tickets for about $550 apiece in December. Then, two days before the June 14 match, he received an email from StubHub telling him, “The seller can’t deliver your original tickets.”

Ndaw accepted store credit rather than a refund, thinking he would use the funds to quickly get replacements, only to then realize that the cheapest last-minute tickets were going for more than $1,500 each. Not only were they not going to get to go to the game, but Ndaw said StubHub rejected his belated request for a refund instead of store credit.

Breaking the news to his soccer-obsessed son was brutal, Ndaw said.

“It was a disastrous thing,” he said. “He had told all his friends that he was going to that game. He literally cried. I mean, he is a 17-year-old kid, but he cried.”

Others fared somewhat better

Patrick O’Neil of Pittsboro traveled to Atlanta with his wife, son and relatives after purchasing ve tickets through StubHub for the Spain-Cape Verde match. Two tickets transferred successfully, but three never arrived.

O’Neil’s 15-year-old son and his uncle ended up using the two tickets, while O’Neil, his wife and another relative watched from a nearby bar.

After local media caught wind of their ordeal, O’Neil said StubHub contacted the family and o ered tickets to another game. Since the family had already bought tickets to one, though, he and his wife asked the company to instead give the seats to local nonpro t Soccer in the Streets so they could go to people who otherwise might not be able to attend a match.

“StubHub is not evil, but they’re part of the whole system that makes it really hard for just normal kids and people who might want to see a match get to go,” O’Neil said.

Last week, a StubHub representative con rmed to the AP that the company would honor the O’Neils’ request and send tickets to the nonpro t.

R.J. RICO / AP PHOTO

Patrick O’Neil, his wife, Gina Di no, right, and their 15-year-old son, Aidan, attend the World Cup match between Czechia and South Africa in Atlanta on last Thursday.

EMILIE MEGNIEN / AP PHOTO

Bina Ramroop holds proof of the ticket she bought through StubHub for the World Cup match between Spain and Cape Verde in Atlanta on June 15.

MOORE SPORTS

Vikings’ Little wins NCHSAA award

The Union Pines coach was named one of “Eight who make a di erence”

North State Journal sta

THE NORTH CAROLINA High School Athletic Association presented its annual awards at the end of the 2025-26 school year. One of Moore County’s high school coaches took home a prestigious honor.

Anissa Little, who has coached girls’ basketball at Union Pines since 2018, compiling a 133-67 record (.665 winning percentage) with the Vikings, was named a recipient of the Homer Thompson “Eight Who Make a Di erence” Award.

The award honors the legacy of Homer Thompson, the late longtime Parkland High School coach and NCHSAA Hall of Fame member. Known for his unwavering commitment to sportsmanship and education-based athletics, Thompson set a lasting standard for leadership both on and o the eld.

The award recognizes individuals who exemplify outstanding sportsmanship, leadership and dedication to student athletes. Each recipient re ects the same positive in uence and commitment that de ned Coach Thompson’s career.

Little was chosen as the recipient for Region 4, with the following explanation from the NCHSAA: “Coach Anissa Little’s impact extends far beyond the basketball court. A former

state champion at Chatham Central, she has led multiple schools to state tournament appearances and recorded 100+ wins at both Wake Forest-Rolesville and Union Pines. Now retired from classroom teaching, she continues to inspire as a speaker, singer, and ordained minister, reinforcing the connection between coaching, teaching, and personal growth.”

In an Instagram post, Little said, “I’ve coached High School Basketball and other sports and been a member of the North Carolina High School Athletics

Association for 33 years. During my coaching career, I’ve experienced both the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat. The reason I started coaching and why I’m still standing on the sidelines today is not about me or the number of wins/losses; it’s about impacting lives, making a di erence, and being a resource and role model for young ladies that come through the program. … I’m humbled and appreciative for the nomination and for receiving this award!!! You never know who’s watching what you do!!!!”

Heim outduels Reddick for rst NASCAR Cup win at inaugural San Diego race

Michael Jordan’s 23XI drivers took the top two spots

The Associated Press

CORONADO, Calif. — Corey Heim slammed into the wall twice while destroying his tires during the rst few runs in the inaugural NASCAR Cup Series race at Naval Base Coronado.

It was no problem for Heim, whose No. 67 Toyota inexplicably kept getting faster on the way to his rst career Cup Series victory in only his 13th start.

The 23-year-old part-time

driver from Marietta, Georgia, took a deep breath before the second half of the race and reminded himself that he had as much experience as the veterans on the 16-turn, 3.4-mile street course on Coronado Island, just south of downtown San Diego.

“I’m speechless,” Heim said.

“Maybe I knocked some good into the car. I have no idea. I had high expectations coming into this race. I just reset and went after it.”

Heim, the 2024 truck series champion who will move full time into Cup next season with 23XI Racing, led the nal three laps after snatching rst

from teammate Tyler Reddick.

“I was able to stick with him, and ve to go came, and it was time to put some pressure on him and see if I could get him to make a mistake,” Heim said.

“Sure enough, he did.”

Bubba Wallace nished second to deliver a 1-2 nish for 23XI Racing, the team co-owned by Denny Hamlin and NBA great Michael Jordan.

Reddick su ered a at tire in the closing laps and fell to 25th, cutting his lead in the standings to eight points over Hamlin.

“To even have a shot at it at the end was really nice,” said Red-

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Moore County King Pins

The Moore County King Pins are the team of Lawrence Shamberger and DaJante Thomas. The pair are longtime members of the county’s Special Olympics team and were among the athletes from Moore County to compete in the Special Olympics of North Carolina’s Summer Games in Raleigh.

The King Pins won rst place in Bowling Doubles, bringing back gold medals to add to their collection.

dick, who started from the rear after unapproved adjustments to his No. 45 Toyota. “First and foremost, congratulations to Corey. I thought I was going to be able to hold him o there. It denitely stings. Really needed a good points day. Had another really bad one, so we’ll try and scrape together.”

Heim became the third rst-time winner in Cup this season, joining Ty Gibbs (Bristol) and Carson Hocevar (Talladega).

“Just crazy,” Heim said. “I hope I don’t wake up from this dream.”

His peers already think Heim’s for real.

“Awesome job by Corey Heim,” two-time Cup champion Kyle Larson said after nishing third. “That’s really cool. He’s a super talented race car driver, and it’s neat to see somebody get their rst win, especially at a challenging track like this.”

Zane Smith and AJ Allmendinger rounded out the top ve.

Hamlin, the driver-owner who had won the past three rac-

es for Joe Gibbs Racing, nished 14th.

SVG stunner

Shane van Gisbergen nished 38th in his bid for an eighth road or street course victory (which will make him the active leader among Cup drivers).

After starting from the pole position, van Gisbergen was caught in a crash that started when Trackhouse Racing teammate Connor Zilisch and Austin Hill collided while battling for the lead on a Lap 32 restart. The nine-car incident caused a nine-minute red ag for wall repairs.

“I felt like I was giving Austin space, and the next thing, I was in the wall,” said Zilisch, who led the rst eight laps of his Cup career in the highlight of a miserable rookie season. “Really unfortunate. I hate to end both days for both Shane and I. We had a really fast car today. I had a lot of fun. I really enjoyed just getting to race out front and lead laps.”

Sunday’s

@ANISSALITTLE / INSTAGRAM

Anissa Little, left, receives her award from outgoing NCHSAA commissioner Que Tucker.

DENIS POROY / AP PHOTO

Cory Heim celebrates in Victory Lane after winning

NASCAR Cup Series race in Coronado, California.

SIDELINE REPORT

NBA Sweeney takes over in Orlando, says Magic convinced him t was right Orlando, Fla.

Sean Sweeney landed interviews for more than a few NBA head coaching vacancies over the last few years, and many of them seemed the same. Talking to Orlando, he said, was di erent. Sweeney was introduced last Thursday as the new coach of the Magic, which was the obvious proof that he won them over by his answers during the interview process. Turns out, the Magic won him over with their questions as well.

MLB Ohtani, in Instagram post, announces second child

Los Angeles Shohei Ohtani is a father again. The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar has shared the news on his Instagram account. He and his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, expressed joy over the safe birth and thanked supporters.

A photo of tiny feet and a blue blanket suggest he has a son to go with his daughter, who was born in April 2025. Ohtani missed last Friday’s game when the team placed him on paternity leave. Ohtani was back in the lineup in the leado spot for Saturday’s game.

SWIMMING

Douglass breaks women’s 50-meter freestyle world record in 23.59 Indianapolis Kate Douglass has broken the world record in the women’s 50-meter freestyle at the Tyr Pro Swim Series meet in Indianapolis. She won the nal in 23.59 seconds, bettering Sarah Sjostrom’s mark of 23.61 set in July 2023. Sjostrom had held the seven fastest times in history. Gretchen Walsh was second in 23.78, making her the fourth-fastest performer ever. Anna Moesch nished third in 24.30. Douglass says her time is faster than she ever expected.

NHL

Leafs acquire Raddysh from Lightning, sign him to 8-year contract

The Toronto Maple Leafs signed defenseman Darren Raddysh to an eight-year contract after acquiring his rights in a trade with the Tampa Bay Lightning. Raddysh’s contract is reportedly worth $68 million. The 30-year-old is coming o setting career highs with 22 goals, 48 assists and 70 points in 73 games with Tampa Bay. He produced the same amount over the previous two seasons combined after becoming a full-time NHL player as recently as 2023.

WORLD CUP

Morocco star Hakimi to stand trial in rape case, French appeals court con rms

A French appeals court con rms that Paris Saint- Germain and Morocco star player Achraf Hakimi will stand trial in a rape case. The defender is currently playing with Morocco at the World Cup. Hakimi denied any wrongdoing after facing preliminary charges of rape in March 2023.

A 24-year-old woman accused him of raping her at his home in a Paris suburb. The Versailles court’s decision was released just hours before Morocco takes on Scotland at the World Cup. A trial date has not been announced.

Report: Antetokounmpo getting traded to Heat in blockbuster deal

The

two-time MVP will get to play for a contender

By Tim Reynolds The Associated Press

MIAMI — Giannis Antetokounmpo wants more championships. So do the Miami Heat. Their interests are o cially aligned — and the Heat nally have another superstar.

Ending a marathon watch for the next great Miami get, the Heat reportedly landed Antetokounmpo — a two -time NBA MVP and 10-time All- Star — from the Milwaukee Bucks in exchange for a massive haul of players and draft picks.

The terms: Antetokounmpo and Bobby Portis are heading to Miami for Wisconsin native Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kel’el Ware and Kasparas Jakucionis.

Milwaukee also gets the No. 13 selection in this year’s draft, along with a rst-round pick swap in 2030, rst-round picks in 2031 and 2033 and a second-rounder in 2033. At 31, the Heat clearly believe Antetokounmpo still has many good years left — and it’s generally presumed that by making this deal they’ll give the Greek superstar a massive extension later this year.

He was a perennial MVP candidate in Milwaukee, getting votes for that award in nine consecutive seasons before 2025-26 when too many missed games left him ineligible.

He has averaged 24.1 points and 9.9 rebounds per game in his career, with 10 consecutive seasons of averaging at least 22.9 points — with three years in there of averaging more than 30 points per game.

Only seven active players have more points in their careers than Antetokounmpo.

Antetokounmpo had been mentioned in trade talks countless times in recent years, with the Bucks always insisting they had no interest in trading their best player.

Amateur

But this time, it seemed di erent.

The Bucks, who red Doc Rivers as coach after the season, don’t have a roster that would be considered a championship contender. By trading Antetokounmpo, they can essentially start over with four players (and the Heat were high on all of them) along with draft capital.

“I just think before the draft is a natural time, right, because if Giannis does play somewhere else we’re going to get a lot of assets. ... You’ve got to get it right,” Bucks co-owner Jimmy Haslam said in May, when the team introduced new coach Taylor Jenkins — who was told that Antetokounmpo may or may not be with the franchise when next season starts.

Antetokounmpo had spoken highly of Miami many times over the years, even when the Heat and Bucks were going head-to-head in the playo s.

“They’re going to play tough and they’re not going to stop playing,” Antetokounmpo said after Milwaukee played Miami

“They’re going to play tough and they’re not going to stop playing. That’s the Miami Heat culture.”

Giannis Antetokounmpo after a March game against the Heat

on March 12. “That’s the Miami Heat culture.”

That would be the penultimate game for Antetokounmpo in a Bucks uniform. He played three nights later against Indiana, then was held out of Milwaukee’s nal 15 games of the season. He landed awkwardly on a dunk in that Indiana game and didn’t play again due to what team o cials had labeled as a left knee hyperextension and bone bruise. Antetokounmpo said he was healthy and wanted to play, a dispute that resulted in an investigation by the league o ce.

Antetokounmpo said com-

ing into the 2025-26 season that he is at the point in his career where he thinks about his legacy, and how more championships are important to him. Told he is already considered an all-time great, he bristled at the notion.

“I’m not there yet,” Antetokounmpo said that day at Bucks training camp.

That’s hard to believe considering his resume. He’s won a championship. He’s been an MVP. He’s been an NBA Finals MVP. He’s a perennial All-Star and All-NBA pick. He’s one of only seven players born somewhere other than the 50 states of the U.S. to have reached the 20,000-point mark. In 2025, he led Greece to its rst EuroBasket medal in 16 years.

“Every basketball player, every athlete, starts a career and they have this quest of what they want to accomplish and what to be remembered for,” Antetokounmpo said in that same training camp interview. “And I think at this point, I’ve accomplished everything that I’ve put my mind to.”

stars Russell, Koivun grouped in US Open’s ‘future of

Just 17 and 21 years old, the pair shows great potential

By Brian Mahoney The Associated Press

SOUTHAMPTON, N.Y. —

Miles Russell had a long walk to his ball at the end of a long U.S. Open round with Jackson Koivun on Saturday after smashing his tee shot 407 yards on the 18th hole.

“Not bad, not bad,” Russell said afterward with a smile. “I hit that one pretty good.”

Imagine what he might be able to do when he’s all grown up. The 17-year-old Russell and 21-year-old Koivun were paired together in the third round, a grouping that was being referred to during TV coverage as the future of golf.

Already so accomplished before they are even professionals — Russell hasn’t even started college yet — both players understand why such expectations have been placed on them.

“I mean, I’m trying not to think about that,” Koivun said. “Just taking it one day at a time and let my golf game do the talking, but those are great compliments.”

Both players shot 4-over 74, dropping to 7 over for the tournament. Those scores weren’t too bad on a dicult day at windy Shinnecock Hills for any golfer, let alone two that were playing on the weekend for the rst

golf’ pairing

“I think we just keep doing what we’re doing, and see where it takes us”

Miles Russell

time in a major championship. It’s expected to be the rst of many times for both.

Koivun is about to turn pro after a dominant college career in which he led Auburn to two national championships in three seasons, becoming the rst freshman since Justin Thomas in 2012 to win the Haskins Award, given to the nation’s top collegiate golfer. He won the Southeastern Conference individual title all three years and has been the

world’s top-ranked amateur. Russell is now the next big thing. The left-hander is ranked No. 1 in the American Junior Golf Association and No. 7 among all amateurs in the world. He is headed to Florida State and will be a teammate with Charlie Woods, Tiger Woods’ son, who carried Russell’s bag when he earned his spot in the U.S. Open through a 36-hole quali er.

“He’s been been in the game for a while and he’s just such a good player,” Koivun said.

The players who didn’t know each other well before this weekend were paired again Sunday. Russell, who played with 54-year-old Padraig Harrington in the rst two rounds, took advantage of a chance to be with someone closer to his age Saturday to get some advice about school.

Like Koivun, he tried to downplay the “future of golf” hype around them.

“I don’t know, that’s kind of crazy,” Russell said. “I mean, I think the main thing is just keep enjoying it because if you’re not enjoying it, you may not have much of a future in it. So, I think we just keep doing what we’re doing, and see where it takes us.

“Golf is a very di cult sport,” he added. “One day you have it and the next day it’s gone, so I think you just have to kind of block it out and just keep doing what you’re doing, and hopefully one day that’s true.” Still, he could tell there was an interest in them, even though they were out early in the morning, long before anyone near the top of the leaderboard.

“At the beginning, we had some good crowds out there,” Russell said. “I think if we might have played a little better, they might have stuck around a little longer, but it was cool.”

Koivun and Russell were two of the ve amateurs who made the cut, a group that was led by 21-year-old Ryder Cowan. Cowan, who will be a senior at Oklahoma, was tied for 11th after 36 holes.

So perhaps the future of golf goes beyond Koivun and Russell.

“Yeah, I mean, amateur golf is in a great spot right now,” Koivun said. “The college kids are de nitely showing o , showing o how good they are, and for ve of us to make it through, it’s quite impressive.”

SETH WENIG / AP PHOTO

Miles Russell and Jackson Koivun walk on the 14th hole during the third round of the U.S. Open.

MARTA LAVANDIER / AP PHOTO

Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo dribbles the ball during a game against the Miami Heat.

James Rogers

Jan. 7, 1955 – June 16, 2026

James Levernon Rogers, 71, of Vass, NC, departed his earthly Home on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at UNC Chapel Hill.

Claude Patterson

Jan. 27, 1942 – June 16, 2026

Claude Franklin Patterson, age 84, of Cameron, passed away on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at Genesis Health Care Center in Siler City, NC, surrounded by his loving family. A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 2:30 PM at Cox Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in Vass with Rev. Dennis Patterson o ciating. A time of visitation will immediately follow the service.

Claude was born in Moore County on January 27, 1942, to the late Dock Milton and Sarah Dinkins Patterson. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his brother, Leon Patterson.

He is survived by his loving wife of 63 years, Alice McNeill Patterson, daughter, Tammy Sykes (Sam) of Gibsonville, NC; son, Rev. Kenneth Patterson (Sharon) of Sanford; sisters, Gracie Ellis and Sylvia Simpson (Steve); brother, Rev. Dennis Patterson (Sue); grandchildren, Daniel Sykes (Samantha), Kristin Lorenz (Zach), Ryan Patterson (Eve), Chad Patterson; greatgrandchildren, Elijah Lorenz, Zayn Lorenz, River Sykes, Ava Patterson and Ana Patterson.

Claude loved his family and his faith and proudly served his country in the U.S. National Guard. He enjoyed making wood creations for others with bird houses being his favorite. He enjoyed shing and working in the garden.

“I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck….” Your loving wife, Alice.

In lieu of owers, the family has asked that donations be made in Claude’s memory by mailing a check to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, P.O. Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741, or by calling 1-800-708-7644 or by visiting their website at michaeljfox.org.

Dr. Derrick Deon Brown

Sept. 27, 1970 –June 14, 2026

Dr. Derrick Deon Brown, 55, departed this life on June 14, 2026. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Nazareth Missionary Baptist Church. Services are entrusted to Purcell Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

Phyllis Hinton

April 6, 1935 – June 17, 2026

Phyllis Faircloth Hinton, at the age of 91, passed away on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at the home of her son, William Andrew Hinton and wife, Sandra, of Aberdeen.

Phyllis was born in Pinehurst, North Carolina, on April 6, 1935, to the late Worth Andrew Faircloth and Josephine Ritter Sadler. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Andrew Faircloth and Timothy Sadler.

She leaves behind her children, Thomas Stephen Hinton (Patrice) of Southern Pines, William A. Hinton (Sandy) of Aberdeen, Leslie C. Bundy of Southern Pines, Amanda C. Suber (Gerald) of Vanceboro, NC; grandchildren, Benjamin, Thomas and Leslie; sister, June Coldewe of Florida. No services are planned.

Edward John

Bernard III

July 4, 1967 – June 17, 2026

Edward John Bernard III, of Lillington, at the age of 58, passed away on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, at Cape Fear Valley Betsy Johnson Center in Dunn.

Edward was born in New Jersey on July 4, 1967, to the late Edward John Bernard, Jr and Gay Boa Felix.

He is survived by his stepfather, Wayne Felix of Sanford; children, Indiana Bernard of Newport, NC, Alexis Bernard also of Newport, NC; sisters, Evelyn Perlman of California, Sunny Weber of Pennsylvania; brother, John Felix of Fuquay-Varina. No Services are planned.

Kevin Steed

Sept. 3, 1974 – June 16, 2026

Kevin Franklin Steed, of Aberdeen, at the age of 51, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital, surrounded by the love of his family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Cox Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Gregg Newton o ciating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home.

Kevin was born in Pinehurst, North Carolina, on September 3, 1974, to Franklin Garland Steed and Carolyn Caddell Steed.

He grew up in Moore County with lots of friends, playing all sports. He played football, baseball, basketball and tennis. Kevin graduated from Union Pines High School.

Kevin was a wonderful son, brother, father and friend who loved his children more than anything. He would also do anything for a friend.

In addition to his parents, he is survived by his estranged wife, Ti any Garner Steed; children, Nevik Steed and Bryson Steed of Raleigh, Chloe Steed, Sophie Steed and Dagen Steed, all of Carthage; sister, Dianne Steed Bunnell (Je ) of Virginia; nephew, Drake Wilson of Florida.

He is forever loved and will be greatly missed.

Kim Smith

Oct. 13, 1959 – June 18, 2026

Kim Dill Smith, at the age of 66, passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, June 26, 2026, at 1:00 pm at Cox Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor John Brown o ciating. Burial will follow at Creekside Community Church Cemetery.

Kim was born in Georgia on October 13, 1959, to the late Alice Joyce Dill. In addition to her mother, she was preceded in death by her sister, Kerry Dill.

She is survived by her husband of 46 years, Benton Smith; children, Brandy Tomcany (Mike) of Wilmington, Ben Smith (Brittany) of Chapel Hill, Katie Smith (Johnny Bisi) of Apex; and grandchildren, Maddox Rhodes, Nolan Smith, Greyson Albanese.

She had a deep love for life’s simple pleasures, traveling to the beach, going on cruises and spending time with her grandchildren. She spent 26 years in banking but will be remembered as a woman of God.

Ladford Monley

Dec.19, 1966 – June 14, 2026

Ladford Monley, 59, of Laurinburg departed this life on June 14, 2026. A funeral service will be held at 4:00 p.m. Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church. Interment will follow in Hillside Memorial Park. A viewing and visitation will be held from 1:00 until 5:00 p.m. Friday, June 19, 2026, at Purcell Funeral Home.

Loulla Caddell

April 21, 1935 – June 18, 2026

Mother Loulla Montez Garner Caddell, 91, departed this life on June 18, 2026. A funeral service will be held at 12:00 p.m. Monday, June 22, 2026, at Bellview AME Zion Church, Robbins. Interment will follow in the New Zion AME Church Cemetery. A viewing and visitation will be held one hour prior to the service. Services

Gaines

–

STATE & NATION

Wine brands chase Gen Z with playful tie-ins to Shark Week, NASCAR, more

Younger drinkers are forcing wine to trade stu ness for sass, a ordability and pop culture moments

By J.M. Hirsch The Associated Press

BOSTON — Which wine pairs well with Shark Week? Does a pinot noir have enough acidity to cut through the grime of a Tough Mudder race? Is a big, brassy cabernet bold enough of a qua for a night of naming dead rodents after an ex?

And is a wine named SEX too provocative or not provocative enough?

Absurd as they may sound, these are the questions haunting wine marketers grappling with slumping sales and increasingly elusive drinkers. How consumers — especially younger drinkers — answer them will determine whether an industry long de ned by fuddy-duddy pretense can nd its footing in 2026 and beyond.

“That self-important way that wine can refer to itself — we’re really trying to tip that on its head,” said Helen Kurtz, chief of marketing for The Wine Group, which hopes that o erings such as its easy-drinking Cupcake Vineyards wines can attract a generation that came of age on Frappuccinos and gas station BuzzBallz.

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding,” she said.

By which she means partnering the company’s MD 20/20 (yes, it’s a wine) with World Wrestling Entertainment matches (“Mad Dog Enters the Ring”), and launching the aptly named Fuel by Franzia line of boxed wine beverages for NASCAR (“Full Throttle Flavor”).

Alcohol consumption has dropped

It’s a fresh lesson on the importance of nding your customer rather than hoping they nd you. Because almost across the board, alcohol consumption is down, a trend that accelerated post-pandemic. A host of factors is at play, including aging Boomers seeking healthier lifestyles, Gen Z’s gravitation to low- and no-alcohol beverages, and widening availability of alternatives such as marijuana.

Each segment of the alcohol industry — valued at around $560 billion in the U.S. — is responding di erently. Hard liquor, for example, has found a rare growth category in ready-to-drink canned cocktails. But the wine industry faces its own constellation of challenges, many of its own making.

For anyone new to wine particularly much-coveted 20-somethings — nding one’s

way can be daunting, something of a Château du Stu y e ect.

“You’ve got a bunch of things, what you might call friction points with wine that are particularly salient to younger consumers,” including cost and drinkability, said Christian Miller, director of research for the Wine Market Council.

A pretentious image keeps some customers away

Wine, from the labels to the language used to describe it, historically has leaned pricy and pretentious (looking at

you, “notes of asphalt and barnyard”). Wine trends also have favored boozy and bracing styles, a hard sell for folks used to sipping hard seltzers at the club. Fewer than a third of Gen Z households own a corkscrew, according to a trends report by the British household products company Lakeland. Even simply trying a wine comes with a gatekeeper: Hard liquor is easy to sample at a bar or as single-shot nips; most wine requires a full-bottle commitment.

A cadre of wineries has begun pushing the bounds of wine culture by ditching the fussy façade in favor of a sassy

vibe and accessible language.

Price matters too (the sweet spot seems to be the $8 to $20 a bottle range), but not nearly so much as the message.

It’s about using contemporary communication to pitch “something that’s been made for centuries,” said Charles Smith, founder of House of Smith, the company behind younger, shopper-friendly brands such as Kung Fu Girl Riesling and SEX Rosé. “My mantra is always to communicate the language of wine to everyone because not everyone speaks wine. The wine should be a re ection of the consumer who is going to buy it.”

“It’s about being less serious about ourselves, because that’s what this consumer is demanding.”

Helen Kurtz, Chief of Marketing, The Wine Group

Can tie-ins to pop culture make wine more relatable?

Bogle Family Wine Collection has leaned in with its Juggernaut Wines. Adorned with almost graphically violent labels showcasing alpha predators — a shark, a grizzly, an orca, a lion and some sort of particularly angry bird of prey — the bottles are a far cry from the placid villas and languorous ladies plastered across so many wines.

The other side of it is getting those bottles into spaces not traditionally associated with wine, said Jessica LaBounty, the company’s marketing director. For two years, Juggernaut has announced “Adventure awaits” as it sponsored the grueling Tough Mudder races. They’ve also done placements at zoos that host nights where people can name dead rodents and insects after former partners and feed them to the animals. Cheers…?

And this year, it’s Discovery network’s Shark Week. Juggernaut’s chardonnay label sports an especially snappish great white and “just the right amount of bite.”

“The viewer base of Shark Week lines up really, really nicely with who we know our consumer to be,” LaBounty said. “It’s another way to meet them where they are already versus kind of asking them to come to us.”

Learning to speak

Gen Z is key

The goal is to bridge a generational divide in which wine got lost. Younger drinkers don’t and won’t talk about wine the way older drinkers do. To point, there’s a clever social media meme about a Millennial marketing team pitching wine vs. a Gen Z social media team. The Millennial e ort goes on at length about terroir and full-bodied avors. Gen Z’s pitch? “it’s giving… yummy”.

Vibe is everything for Bread & Butter Wines, with the tagline, “Don’t overthink it.” As in, pair their red blend with a candy charcuterie board. Or their pinot noir with a Thanksgiving leftovers sandwich. Want fries with that? Try their prosecco.

“The No. 1 goal is to disrupt the shelf because it is so crowded,” said Caitlin Ward, brand and digital marketing director.

“Sassiness is a way to do that.”

J.M. Hirsch is a longtime food writer who was food editor of The Associated Press for nearly a decade until 2016.

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of pinot noir wines, from left, Josh Cellars Reserve, Juggernaut and Chloe, sit on shelves at a grocery store in Concord, New Hampshire, on June 8.

J.M. HIRSCH VIA AP

A variety of California red wines from Line 39, from left, Cupcake Vineyards and Snoop Dogg’s 19 Crimes Cali Red, are displayed on a Concord, New Hampshire, grocery store shelf.