VOLUME 11 ISSUE 24 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026
NSJONLINE.COM
PJ WARD-BROWN / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
The speaker speaks U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), right, joined Laurie Buckhout, who is running for North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District, at a campaign event Tuesday in Greenville.
the
Helene camps cost $500K-plus daily after storm
BRIEF this week
House Ethics panel recommends censure of N.C.’s Edwards Washington, D.C. The House Ethics Committee recommended Monday that Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) be censured after finding that he engaged in persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct toward two young female aides in his congressional office. A censure registers the House’s deep disapproval of a lawmaker’s conduct that does not meet the threshold for expulsion. Edwards, 65, has denied that any of his conduct was intended as a sexual or romantic advance, but the committee said his behavior would “lead a reasonable observer to interpret it as such.” It also described his actions as “beyond inappropriate.” The panel highlighted numerous examples of actions it considered improper, including Edwards providing the young women with lavish and recurrent gifts, making comments regarding their appearance and dress, inviting them to intimate dinners and vacations, and sending notes regarding his affection.
Iran, Oman working to reopen Strait of Hormuz Cairo Iran and Oman are inching toward a deal to reopen the disputed Strait of Hormuz and potentially help bring an end to the war. The emerging agreement calls for ships to enter the Persian Gulf through an Iranian-controlled route and exit through a route controlled by Oman, two regional officials told The Associated Press. Any deal, though, appears contingent on the United States lifting its blockade on Iran’s ports.
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An audit found $111 million was spent over seven months
Second wave of third-party mailers hits North Carolina Ready to Register’s second batch contains more errors, many sent to long-deceased individuals By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — A third party sending voter registration mailings has sent another round of faulty letters to North Carolina citizens. North State Journal (NSJ)
confirmed a second mid-July mailing from “Ready to Register” was again sent to deceased individuals in the state and included an outdated voter registration form. NSJ contacted the North Carolina State Board of Elections (NCSBE), and a spokesperson said they were not yet aware of the new round of mailings. The first round of mailSee MAILERS, page A2
By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal RALEIGH — Operating costs of base camps set up in western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene reached more than half a million dollars each day, totaling over $111 million over seven months when facilities were operational, according to a new state audit. The camps were created to provide essential support such as shelter, food, water, showers, restrooms and laundry services. Additional support was given to disaster relief staff, utility crews, first responders and state employees. “These base camps were an essential service in the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Helene,” NC State Auditor Dave Boliek said in a press release. “Now that we are in the long-term rebuilding phase of recovery, and knowing
Data center moratoriums spreading throughout NC “A lot of these data centers are coming into communities and not necessarily meeting people where they are.” Colton Overcash, Vertex Strategies founder
More than two dozen North Carolina counties and towns are blocking the facilities By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — As pushback over data center facilities has grown, so has the list of North Carolina counties and towns enacting moratoriums on the facilities. Based on public records, resolutions and official meetings, at least 11 counties and 17 towns have enacted a moratorium, typically one year in length. Other activities include Lee County and Sanford add-
ing specific data center regulations to their Unified Development Ordinances in April instead of a full or temporary moratorium. Other jurisdictions, such as Weaverville, have adopted zoning provisions classifying data centers/crypto mining as restricted uses. Stokes County approved a project amid opposition and a lawsuit, while Vance and Edgecombe counties have considered proposals but have not enacted moratoriums. Campaigns to get moratoriums deployed in North Carolina have included environmental advocacy and citizen-led groups, but notably the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL). See DATA CENTER, page A3
that future emergencies will strike, it is essential that we, as a state, have discussions on associated costs. “$111 million is no small total, and the absence of key metrics raises a clear need to assess how these camps are utilized and consider the full return on the expense.” The rapid response special report of the 55 base camps found the daily costs to equate to roughly $516,000, with total costs amounting to $111.06 million between Sept. 27, 2024, and April 30, 2025. A one-night stay in a single bed cost roughly $800, with individual meals costing about $41.67. North Carolina Emergency Management (NCEM) was charged $85 an hour for general staff and $12,100 for site coordinators each week. According to NCEM, base camp costs were determined by preexisting disaster contracts and the urgency of deployment. Camps were set up in conjunction with disaster See HELENE, page A3
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
THURSDAY
8.6.26 #553
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the word | Life is a race “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.” 1 Corinthians 9:24 True religion is a business of the greatest importance. The soul, which is the more noble and divine part, is concerned in it; and, as we act our part here — so we shall be forever happy — or miserable. The advice of Solomon in this case is most seasonable: “Whatever your hand finds to do — do it with all your might, for in the grave, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.” Ecclesiastes 9:10. The business of true religion, requires our utmost zeal and intensity, Matthew 11:12. Sometimes the work we are to do for heaven is set out by striving. Luke 13:24, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate.” Sometimes the work is compared to wrestling. Ephesians 6:12, “We wrestle not against flesh and blood — but against principalities and powers.” Sometimes the life of a Christian is compared to fighting. 1 Timothy 6:12, “Fight the good fight of faith.” Sometimes a Christian’s work for heaven is compared to the running of a race; so in the text, “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain.” In which words the Apostle seems to allude either to the Olympic games, which were kept every fifth year in honor of Jupiter, or to the Isthmian games celebrated near Corinth in the honor of Neptune, in which games they put forth all their strength to win the prize. Just so, said the Apostle, run the race of Christianity which is set before you with a winged swiftness that you may obtain the prize of salvation! The words fall into two general parts: There is a race to be run, “so run” and at the end of running, “that you may obtain.” The observations out of the text are these two: Christianity is a race and wise Christians should labor so to run as to win the prize: “that you may obtain.” Christianity is a race. The life of a Christian is a race. Hebrews 12:1, “Let us run with patience the race that is set before us.” We must be travelers, before we are possessors. Heaven is a place of rest. Hebrews 4:9, “There remains a rest for the people of God.” No more wrestling there, for then we have overcome the enemy.
CC0 1.0 / PUBLIC DOMAIN
The Panathenaic Amphora is a terracotta amphora from the Archaic Period depicting a running race by the Euphiletos Painter. It was presented as a victory prize for the Panathenaic Games in Athens in 530 B.C. and depicts runners on one side and the Athena Promachos on the opposite side. The amphora is in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
The saints in glory are set forth with palms in their hands, Revelation 7:9, in tokens of victory. No more running there for the prize being obtained, the saints have thrones to sit and rest themselves upon, Revelation 3:21. But this present life is a race, and it must be run — so run.
Thomas Watson (1620-1686) was an English preacher and author.
Legislative America 250 committee holds final meeting The Semiquincentennial Committee delivered its final activities report By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — The North Carolina Semiquincentennial Committee set up to coordinate state celebrations for America’s 250th anniversary delivered its activities report at its final official meeting last Wednesday. The meeting, conducted by co-chair Sen. Ted Alexander (R-Cleveland), wrapped up business and included the delivery of the committee’s final report on its activities across its 14 meetings, going back to April 2024. Key public events in the report included a nearly sold-out patriotic concert July 3 in High Point featuring the North Carolina Brass Band, a state choir, and bluegrass artists Darin and Brooke Aldridge. The report highlighted strong local media attention, with PBS North Carolina recording the concert for later broadcast. The next day, a Fourth of July parade was held in downtown
Raleigh. Department of Labor Commissioner Luke Farley spearheaded the parade effort. During the meeting, a spokesperson from his agency expressed the department’s “sincere appreciation” for the opportunity to work with the committee on the event. The spokesperson noted more than 70 groups came together for the parade, which drew about 10,000 people to Raleigh with an additional 8,500 watching a livestream by WRAL-TV. It was also stated that while expenses were still being tabulated, it appeared to cost about $75,000, which is well below the $170,000 the committee had allotted. “Your confidence, collaboration, and commitment made this event possible, and we are grateful to have played a role in helping commemorate this important milestone in our nation’s history,” the Labor spokesperson said. The committee also supported historical exhibits, including one displaying rare founding documents and artifacts, and helped preserve land along the Overmountain Victory Trail at no extra cost to the state. Additionally, the report noted
“It’s my hope that what we have done has and will inspire future generations.” Sen. Ted Alexander (R-Cleveland) distribution of special booklets of the U.S. and North Carolina constitutions and advanced a commemorative license plate design spotlighting the state’s geography and history. Committee members worked with state agencies, museums, nonprofits and community groups on educational programs and a website that served as both a resource and event calendar. In its findings, the committee noted strong public interest and successful collaboration. Looking ahead, it recommended continuing anniversary events through 2033 to cover the full length of the Revolutionary War while keeping a focus on North Carolina’s “First in Freedom” identity. Future items suggested in-
COURTESY @NCDOL / X
The state put on a Fourth of July parade to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. clude specific recognition of the state’s unique part in ratifying the U.S. Constitution, including the state’s two conventions and strong advocacy for a Bill of Rights. As the meeting closed out, Alexander thanked his co-chair, Rep. Hugh Blackwell (R-Burke). “It was Rep. Blackwell’s vision, this committee,” said Alexander. “Basically, he fought to get the legislation put in place for this committee. And without his vision of what we wanted to accomplish, we could not have done what we did at all.” Alexander also thanked individual committee members, the N.C. Department of Labor, and the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, which
State retirement boards approve measures for financial stability, effective administration The boards approved pension policies and will discuss tiered benefit structures By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal RALEIGH — The Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System and Local Government Employees’ Retirement System boards of trustees last Thursday approved policies to support operations across public pension funds, stabilization policies for firefighters and rescue squad workers and modernization of record-keeping platforms. “Strong retirement systems require both sound financial policies and effective opera-
tions,” said State Treasurer Brad Briner in a press release. “The Board’s actions today reinforce our commitment to long-term sustainability while ensuring we have the people, processes and planning necessary to serve North Carolina’s public employees, retirees and employers efficiently today and well into the future.” The boards of trustees adopted contribution rate stabilization policies for the Firefighters’ and Rescue Squad Workers’ Pension Fund (FRSWPF) and the N.C. National Guard Pension Fund. Contribution rate stabilization policies are tools used by pension funds and insurance pools to smooth out yearly fluctuations in financial contributions. The policies will remain in ef-
fect for five fiscal years and end after June 2032. The policies will serve to support long-term sustainability and avoid unpredictability in budgeting for participants, according to the press release. The FRSWPF Advisory Panel presented an annual report, which illustrated the plan’s increase in funded ratio, operational activities and a policy need to require fully online reporting and contributions to reduce administrative burdens. Staff were directed by the Local Government Employees’ Retirement System (LGERS) to look into a tiered benefit structure to allow increased pension benefits for firefighters and rescue squad workers who serve beyond 20 years.
The boards were additionally presented with an independent CEM Benchmarking report, showing that operational areas across the North Carolina Retirement System (NCRS) perform better and at lower costs than national peers. Linea Solutions updated the boards on fiduciary responsibilities and practices to modernize administrative systems. An online portal known as Online Retirement Benefits through Integrated Technology (ORBIT) is used by NCRS to manage records, workflow and web-based services for members and employers. ORBIT provides 24/7 access to manage accounts, run benefit estimates and handle monthly reporting. Linea Solutions’ pre-
headed up many of the statewide activities. He also thanked various groups, including the Celebrate America foundation and its president, Stephen McKee, saying, “They stepped up as a nonprofit.” “It’s my hope that what we have done has and will inspire future generations to similarly reflect and to commemorate the values and the virtues of our country and our Founding Fathers and the things that we inherited and the thing that we must diligently and always protect,” said Alexander. “And so if this committee has in any way helped forward that notion, then I think we will have done a good thing for not only the state of North Carolina, but beyond.”
sentation provided information for future modernization, noting the emergence of evolving statutory requirements and increasing workloads. Emerging workloads have led to manual processes and workarounds that are expected to be adjusted and improved in the future. Holly W. Lee, a family medicine position, was also appointed to the Medical Board that administers the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System’s Disability Income Plan of North Carolina. The board also administers LGERS Disability Retirement. She succeeds Nathanial Sparrow, who died in May. The boards’ structure will be adjusted during their October meeting, which was included in a budget bill passed by the General Assembly and signed by Gov. Josh Stein. The bill allows the state treasurer and the boards to appoint specialized staff directly, though no changes to board structure will occur until July 1, 2027.
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Cooper joint fundraising with progressive senators tops $726K The former governor has teamed up with four senators
RALEIGH — In his bid for North Carolina’s U.S. Senate seat, former Gov. Roy Cooper has raised more than $726,000 through joint fundraising committees with four Democratic U.S. senators — Delaware’s Chris Coons, Arizona’s Mark Kelly, Georgia’s Jon Ossoff and Maryland’s Chris Van Hollen, according to Federal Election Commission data. Joint fundraising committees allow candidates to raise money together and share donors, and are often a signal of political alignment. The joint fundraising committees’ approximate totals as of the latest available Federal Election Commission (FEC) data include: • Cooper-Ossoff: more than $376,000 since August 2025 • Cooper-Van Hollen: more than $164,000 since December 2025 • Cooper-Coons: more than $133,000 since March 2026 • Cooper-Kelly: more than $54,000 since September 2025 Earlier in July, the Cooper campaign announced it pulled more than $14.8 million for the second quarter. His Republican
opponent, Michael Whatley, reported $5 million for the same period. Cooper has portrayed himself as a moderate Democrat focused on affordability, the theme of his “Make Stuff Cost Less” tour, which has focused on healthcare costs and Medicaid expansion — priorities shared by his co-fundraising partners. Foreign policy, especially the Israel/Gaza conflict, is an issue his co-fundraising partners have been vocal about, but Cooper has remained silent. The four senators have also criticized Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations and opposed related funding, another topic Cooper has mostly avoided. As governor, Cooper vetoed two bills (House Bill 10 and Senate Bill 101) requiring local law enforcement to cooperate with ICE and a bill removing noncitizens from voter rolls. Only House Bill 10’s veto was overridden by lawmakers. Cooper’s four fundraising partners have some of the most progressive stances in the Senate, with Progressive Punch lifetime scores placing them roughly in the 90% range. While all four called for Maine’s Graham Platner to drop out of the state’s Senate race after allegations of sexual assault, Coons told CNN he was still willing to give Platner a “measure of grace.” Van Hollen, like Coons, sup-
ported Platner, including defending Platner’s controversial past posts and tattoos with Nazi symbolism. Until he called on him to drop out July 6, Cooper had not commented on Platner’s scandals. Troy Jackson, the replacement selected after Platner dropped out, was featured in a July 28 fundraising email sent by the Cooper campaign. Our Revolution, a progressive group founded by Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, endorsed Jackson as the replacement for Platner. Sanders, self-described as a democratic socialist and a registered independent, campaigned for and endorsed Jackson for Maine governor in 2025. Jackson led Sanders’ presidential campaigns in Maine in 2016 and 2020. Van Hollen made headlines by endorsing Zohran Mamdani for mayor of New York City while criticizing other Democrats as “spineless” for hesitating. The Maryland senator is most widely known for his trip to El Salvador to visit Kilmar Abrego
DATA CENTER from page A1
leigh, is that bills like the Rate-
Act, which originated in the
By A.P. Dillon North State Journal
PSL’s involvement was detailed in a report by Rob Nanfelt, the leader of Charlotte’s Real Estate and Building Industry Coalition, following a Charlotte City Council meeting in May. Nanfelt’s report was picked up and republished by Business NC in its weekly newsletter. Colton Overcash, the founder of the newly formed Vertex Strategies, told North State Journal he believes wariness of data centers stems from not meeting people “where they are” on the issue. “I think part of what we’re hoping to do is sort of operate as a good faith actor,” Overcash said of his company. “But a lot of these data centers are coming into communities and not necessarily meeting people where they are.” Overcash formed Vertex Strategies, which focuses on government relations and regulatory affairs, earlier this year. He is a Western Carolina University graduate who has worked for both Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) and Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-Banner Elk), as well as for the Department of Homeland Security. Overcash said he thinks moratoriums are being enacted due to a lack of current policy or areas just needing to take more time to look at the issue. “A lot of companies, especially data center developers, are spending a lot of money into these large development projects but not exactly right-sizing their investment based upon what their political risk is,” Overcash said. Overcash highlighted data center pushback in South Carolina, where nondisclosure agreements have occurred and “conversations are happening behind closed doors.” “The public isn’t really being let in on what those conversations entail,” Overcash said. “And they’re the ones who are being asked to absorb a lot of impact, both good and bad, not just in the short term, but long term.” Overcash also said he is starting to see “repercussions” of data centers failing to address the public in good faith. Overcash noted data center projects often hinge on local power capacity, and some communities vary widely in their ability to handle rising electricity demand. That constraint frequently decides whether a site can move forward — even when land is ready. “What I’m hearing from data center developers, and certainly in conversations around Ra-
$376K Joint fundraising total of Roy Cooper and Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.)
Garcia, an immigrant living in the country illegally who is accused of human trafficking, being an MS-13 gang member and of assaulting his wife. Kelly gained media attention for involvement in the “illegal orders” campaign, which encouraged military members to defy President Donald Trump, resulting in a probe by the Department of Defense into the campaign. Ossoff, with whom Cooper has raised the most, has taken money from Reid Hoffman, the LinkedIn founder with ties to Jeffrey Epstein. Hoffman notably joked about buying ice cream “for the girls” as a thank-you gift to Epstein after staying on his private island. Cooper has also directly accepted at least $27,800 in campaign money from Hoffman, according to FEC and North Carolina State Board of Elections reports. A December 2025 letter from the Department of Justice to the Senate Judiciary Committee detailed that Hoffman gave more than $76 million to Democrats and related committees, including in North Carolina. Ideological overlap between Cooper and Ossoff includes blocking attempts to keep males out of women’s spaces and sports — Cooper with his veto of the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, which was overridden along with five other related vetoes, and Ossoff’s attempt to block a similar bill from advancing in the Senate. An additional notable item in Cooper’s filings shows his campaign accepted donations from Josh Bekenstein, a board member of the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC).
A3 The SPLC is currently under federal indictment on allegations that the organization funded the white supremacist groups it claimed to fight. FEC records show Cooper accepted $7,000 from Bekenstein: two $3,500 contributions on or about Sept. 30, 2025. FEC filings show Ossoff also took more than $700,000 in campaign donations from the SPLC’s 501(c)(4) group during the 2020 race, according to Fox News. The Cooper campaign did not respond to North State Journal’s request for comment. A review of FEC filings for Republican Senate candidate Michael Whatley shows no comparable individual-linked joint fundraising committees with sitting Republican U.S. senators. Whatley’s principal campaign committee (Whatley for Senate) reported more than $11.27 million in total receipts from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, including $62,000 from the National Republican Senatorial Committee and about $874,000 from PACs and other groups. He has spent roughly $7.81 million. Outside spending in support of Whatley has included groups such as AFP Action, the Senate Leadership Fund (SLF) and Red Senate. According to Politico, SLF announced a $17 million summer ad campaign last week to hit Cooper on his record and launched a website called 40YearsIsEnough.com. Similarly, Axios reported New York Sen. Chuck Schumer’s Senate Majority PAC upped its ad spending on Cooper by $11 million for a total of $42.5 million.
Data center moratoriums COUNTIES AND TRIBAL REGIONS Clay County: 1-year moratorium (September 2025) Gates County: 1-year moratorium (early 2026) Chatham County: 1-year moratorium (February 2026) Rowan County: 1-year moratorium (April 2026) Swain County: 1-year moratorium (April 21, 2026) Orange County: 1-year moratorium (April 21, 2026) Harnett County: 1-year moratorium (May 4, 2026) Northampton County: 32-month moratorium (May 4, 2026) Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI / Qualla Boundary): Indefinite moratorium (May 2026) Durham County: 1-year moratorium (June 2026; this followed an earlier shorter pause)
CORY LAVALETTE / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
A woman with a towel on her head walks from an American Red Cross Disaster Relief site that was providing laundry and showers to people in Swannanoa on Oct. 10, 2024, in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
Davie County: 1-year moratorium (July 2026)
HELENE from page A1
TOWNS AND CITIES
response contractor SLSCO LTD, which determined qualifications and experience requirements for camp workers. Meals were invoiced based on the anticipated number of people the facility would support rather than charges for consumption. Meal charges were incurred based on the contracted service level. Other services at the camps included beds, restrooms, laundry, ice and refrigerated trailers. Costs of bed operations varied between camps, as did restroom services. Laundry consumption was charged based on anticipated demand. Following the audit, the Office of the State Auditor (OSA) suggested that NCEM should track usage rates and per-use costs of showers, restrooms, laundry facilities, meals and other services. The OSA stated the tracking could assist with negotiating improved costs for disaster support services in the future. In its response letter, NCEM acknowledged the work of its members and members of the State Emergency Response Team (SERT) following Helene. According to the letter, each invoice was reviewed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) under the Public Assistance Program and was federally reviewed. “Due to the criticality of emergency response especially in catastrophic incidents, disaster contracts by their nature can be expensive, but are necessary actions to take when life safety is concerned,” said Secretary Jeffrey Smythe in the letter. “The obligation of NCEM and the SERT is to support life safety and life sustainment operations for disas-
Brevard (Transylvania County): 1-year moratorium (September 2025) Canton (Haywood County): 1-year moratorium (February 2026) Kings Mountain (Cleveland County): 6-month (182-day) moratorium (February 2026; ends late August 2026) Boone (Watauga County): 1-year moratorium (March 2026) — corrected from 90 days Clyde (Haywood County): 1-year / 12-month moratorium (April 2026) — added Apex (Wake County): 1-year moratorium (April 2026) Wendell (Wake County): Moratorium through Dec. 31, 2026 (April 2026) Woodfin (Buncombe County): 12-month moratorium (May 2026) — added Charlotte: 150-day moratorium (June 2026; ends November 2026) — date corrected from May Durham (Durham County): Initially 60-day (May 2026), extended to full 12-month moratorium (June 2026; through May 2027) Fayetteville (Cumberland County): 120-day pause (May 2026) Spring Hope (Nash County): 1-year moratorium (May 2026) Boiling Spring Lakes (Brunswick County): 1-year moratorium (June 2026) Holly Springs (Wake County): 1-year moratorium (June 2026) Hillsborough (Orange County): Yearlong/1-year moratorium (June 2026; after an earlier short pause) — added Asheville (Buncombe County): 1-year moratorium (June 2026; unanimous) Franklin (Macon County): 1-year moratorium (July 2026)
payers Protection Act doesn’t necessarily help in that conversation because it wants to basically restrict what types of cooling technologies can be deployed within a data center,” said Overcash, adding what he’s trying to help address is the cost and capacity issue. The Ratepayers Protection
House and stalled out in the Senate, focuses mainly on energy rates for large facilities known as “hyperscalers.” The recently enacted state budget took up the issue in part by repealing electricity tax exemptions for such facilities, and the state’s Department of Revenue has since issued guidance on the matter.
“Knowing that future emergencies will strike, it is essential that we, as a state, have discussions on associated costs.” NC State Auditor Dave Boliek ter survivors and impacted communities.” “While capturing the specific number of meals, showers, or beds used may be helpful in day-to-day commodity procurement, disaster procurement is based on supporting the needs of local communities, of SERT partners, and of emergency responders in a time of significant stress and when life safety and sustainment is the priority.” Hurricane Helene’s direct damages are estimated to be about $44.4 billion, with indirect damages at an estimated $9.4 billion. The audit noted that $5.8 billion was recommended to be invested in strengthening infrastructure in anticipation of future disasters. A prior audit of a Helene relief station in Swannanoa had found daily operation costs to total $145,000. The OSA recommended better record-keeping and implementing processes to monitor relief sites from the first day through closing. Another audit examined Hurricane Helene mental health support funds, which were spent on items like T-shirts, flowers, red light therapy, salt therapy, foot detox sessions and guided strolls along nature trails. Several structural weaknesses in how the colleges tracked and processed spending were identified.
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL
The shot taken at the Constitution by socialist democrats How can any socialist running for public office square the circle of supporting and defending the Constitution while at the same time trying to destroy it?
AT THE BEGINNING of each session of Congress, every member of the U.S. House and Senate takes the following vow before being sworn in as duly elected representatives to do the people’s work for which they were elected. “I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; and that I will well and faithfully discharge the duties of the office on which I am about to enter: So help me God.” Not only is it a moral oath, but it is also a mandated oath set forth in Article VI of the Constitution that requires all representatives, senators, executive officers, judicial officers and state legislatures to affirm support for the Constitution. It is an oath I saw taken by 435 members of the U.S. House and 100 U.S. senators six times during my years on Capitol Hill. Elected members, both Democratic and Republican, meant it, and they took their oath seriously and held their colleagues to very high standards to do the same. Many were veterans who had sworn to uphold the Constitution during their military service to protect our freedoms at the risk of losing their lives. Each swearing-in ceremony was a very solemn occasion as elected members were surrounded by close family and friends to celebrate yet another peaceful transfer of authority in America. However, the democratic socialists who dominate the former Democratic Party have adopted a platform that flies directly in the
face of the Article VI oath of office, making it hard to believe any of them can take the oath and mean it. Some observers discount it as a trivial matter that will amount to very little, but American political parties have fractured or disintegrated over issues that started out with a small number of advocates and then exploded in the face of the participants. The DSA platform doesn’t call for mere amendments to the Constitution but unabashedly calls to abolish it and replace it with a parliamentary system similar to the European model. They want to abolish the U.S. Senate, eliminate the direct election of the president and allow only Congress to select the chief executive and justices on the Supreme Court. They call for an end to ICE enforcement of our border policies and to allow every person who is a long-term resident of the U.S. to vote regardless of citizenship status. They would end funding for the Department of Defense and close all prisons. How can any socialist running for public office square the circle of supporting and defending the Constitution while at the same time trying to destroy it and the U.S. government structure now in place after 250 years of often-painful stages of growth and development? It is more than a little dishonest to be taking a solemn vow before God and the country to protect and defend the Constitution while tearing it up into pieces like Nancy Pelosi did to President Donald Trump’s State of the Union speech in his first term. The United States has had many political parties since 1790, and all have tried to stretch the boundaries of existing law at the time of their ascendancy and power. However, none of them called for the outright abolition of
the Constitution and American democratic republicanism as the current socialist democrats are doing. Just because a political party once achieved majority status doesn’t mean it exists forever. It doesn’t take long for a political party of any size or power to evaporate into thin air because of misguided policies. Has the DSA just touched the electrified third rail of political existence like the Federalist and Whig parties did in the past, putting not only themselves at risk but the once-proud Democratic Party? The Federalist Party was done in by its inherent desire to accumulate and concentrate power in the hands of politicians in Washington, D.C., in the first three decades of the Republic. They opposed going to war against Britain in the War of 1812, which certainly was not seen in a very patriotic light in the new nation. It certainly was not seen as “supporting or defending the Constitution” just implemented in 1789. There hasn’t been a Federalist candidate anywhere in close to 200 years. The Whigs did themselves in over internecine battles over slavery and its inclusion into western territories between Northern and Southern Whigs. The Whigs could boast of having four presidents, with Millard Fillmore being the last to serve in 1853. However, once they started losing members to the nascent Grand Old Party, the Republican Party led by Abraham Lincoln, the Whig Party died a relatively fast death. The DSA’s platform may amount to nothing, but it might be the shot across the bow of the Democratic Party that starts to sink either or both.
EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS
On Cooper, Whatley and the race to succeed Tillis The last three months of a campaign are what voters typically remember the most.
IT’S BEEN ROUGHLY a year since former Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley and former Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper declared their respective candidacies for the North Carolina Senate seat currently held by retiring Sen. Thom Tillis. Though it was a formality, both went on to win their March primary races. But aside from Whatley hammering Cooper over his dismal record on crime, the race so far has been running at a pace favorable to Cooper as reflected in polling, which shows Cooper with an average lead of 7.6%, according to the latest RealClearPolitics polling averages. That said, something to keep in mind is that in elections, the last three months of a campaign are what voters typically remember the most, so naturally that’s when you start seeing escalations in the stump speeches, social media wars, mailers, robocalls, cash infusions and, along with all that, large blocks of ad buys. Last week, about the same time a Fox News poll was released showing Cooper ahead by nine points, it was revealed that the Senate Leadership Fund (SLF), a GOP Senate super PAC, was about to kick things into high gear with what Politico described as “a $17 million summer ad campaign in North Carolina,” something it noted was “the first tranche
of Senate Leadership Fund’s previously announced plan to spend $71 million” in the Old North State in the campaign to put a dent in Cooper’s armor. Cooper was heavily recruited by the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, in part because he’s spent more than half of his life in elected office and has never lost a political race. He started as a member of the state House in the late 1980s, became a state senator and then served as North Carolina’s attorney general for 16 years before getting elected governor, where he served two terms. A lot is being made about the fact that Whatley has never led Cooper in any of the available polling, but something to keep in mind is that it’s not uncommon to see Republican Senate nominees in North Carolina behind in polling, something we saw in Tillis’ campaign against then-Sen. Kay Hagan (D) and then against Democratic nominee Cal Cunningham six years later. In both instances, Tillis went on to win, rallying down the homestretch while aided in part by scandals and missteps by his opponents. Cooper is considered “tough to beat,” but someone who has been in office for nearly 40 years has an extensive record to pick through, and we can rest assured that not only will the
SLF be doing its due diligence, but that the National Republican Senatorial Committee will too, with there being a high probability there are things they are already sitting on to launch against Cooper when they feel the time is right. Hopefully, the infusion of cash and ads by the SLF will breathe much-needed new life into this race at a critical time when not only will Cooper’s campaign also be stepping up its game, but when fence-sitting voters are just starting to tune in to learn more about the candidates to determine which way they want to vote — or if they even want to vote at all. Oftentimes, polling at this stage in the game tells us little to nothing. Three months is an eternity in politics, and though Whatley has some ground to make up, a sustained and relentless ground and ad game against a candidate who won’t even visit every North Carolina county and who is largely running on name recognition and revisionist spin can do a lot of the heavy lifting. No one should consider this race over. In reality, it has only really just begun. 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.
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
COLUMN | EDWARD J. LOPEZ
North Carolina’s next smart move on infrastructure policy But success creates new challenges. NORTH CAROLINA has become one of the Take road projects, for example. As North great American growth stories. Families are Utility Carolina grows, transportation expansion moving here in record numbers. Businesses are and infrastructure modernization are more expanding. Manufacturers, technology firms and relocation important than ever. More roads are being logistics operators are investing billions. It makes is one of widened. More transportation corridors are sense that CNBC has ranked North Carolina the biggest being rebuilt. And this means more utility America’s top state for business three of the last infrastructure — broadband, electric, water five years. contributors and gas systems — must coexist inside This is no accident. State policymakers to road increasingly crowded rights of way. have quietly built one of the country’s most In a new study (“A Compensation effective policy environments for infrastructure project Requirement to Avoid Delays in investment and economic growth. delays. Transportation Projects with Infrastructure While Washington debates how to modernize Relocations”), I show how road projects America, North Carolina has spent years actually involve a coordination challenge that doing it. policymakers should not ignore. One example is broadband deployment. The truth is utility relocation is one of the biggest While many states have stifled it with layers of contributors to road project delays. Before roads can be bureaucracy, North Carolina streamlined municipal widened or rebuilt, existing infrastructure often must be permits to a 30-day shot clock, capped local moved. And when these relocations are delayed, it means permitting fees and eliminated the need for duplicative transportation projects are also stalled, raising costs and agreements. Meanwhile, NCDOT took steps to ease forcing delays on commuters and shippers. the “encroachment” process for companies to install It’s not that infrastructure relocation delays are due to infrastructure along public rights of way. bad actors or opportunism. Manpower, budgeting and Another example is utility pole attachments. Once operational constraints are real, especially when sudden a major infrastructure bottleneck, North Carolina’s relocation orders arrive. As my study shows, current statutes now feature improved incentives, a clarified policies frequently misalign incentives, leaving the public dispute-resolution process for municipal and co-opto absorb delay costs while utilities absorb relocation owned poles, and expedited make-ready estimates from pole owners. It also launched innovative programs like the costs. North Carolina can make another good policy move Broadband Pole Replacement Program to accelerate rural by introducing cost-sharing for infrastructure relocations. A compensation policy, where cost-sharing is broadband expansion. contingent on timely relocation by communications These incentive improvements have levered the state’s providers, can induce better outcomes and deliver broadband grants, channeling taxpayer resources to truly transportation projects on schedule. Such a policy can be unserved areas where broadband is needed most. Waste in the interests of both parties, as well as taxpayers. It is on duplicative overbuilding has been avoided, and private a natural next step after North Carolina’s track record on providers have contributed matching investments to compete on speed and affordability. The state successfully broadband and infrastructure. The state has already embraced an important truth leveraged roughly $900 million in federal ARPA funding about infrastructure policy: Speed, coordination and while also establishing additional recovery-focused investment don’t happen on their own but thrive when broadband efforts after Hurricane Helene. government creates policy environments that reward These same lessons apply to the broader policy them. environment. North Carolina has reduced barriers to As North Carolina’s growth engine hums along, investment through corporate tax reform, simplified video policymakers can further modernize infrastructure programming taxation and lowered small-scale wireless coordination, reduce unnecessary delays and ensure broadband permitting fees. The state has strengthened projects are completed efficiently. The same innovative protections for critical infrastructure and increased mindset that helped make North Carolina a national penalties for assaults against communications workers. broadband leader can help the state stay ahead of the All this recognizes broadband networks as essential infrastructure pressures that come with rapid growth. infrastructure supporting modern commerce, education America needs more examples of states that solve and public safety. problems instead of merely debating them. North Technical reforms like this have tangible impacts. Carolina is increasingly showing what that looks like. They have helped North Carolina attract extraordinary levels of private-sector investment while many other Edward Lopez is professor of economics states struggle under permitting delays, infrastructure at Western Carolina University. bottlenecks and slow deployment timelines.
COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE
America’s peak socialism — abandoned a century ago “imperfectly, expensively, but it moved the THE EMERGENCE of the Democratic troops and the coal,” the essential fuel then Socialists of America and their political It lasted for both heavy industry and home heating. victories, from New York City across the The fuel administration enforced “heatless fruited plains of Michigan and Wisconsin all only briefly, Mondays,” the National War Labor Board the way to Colorado, strikes many as a new and its set the eight-hour day, and the War Finance thing in U.S. politics. implications Corporation built an emergency fleet. In Previous movements have, in fact, November 1917, 35-year-old Assistant increased, sometimes significantly, the size have mostly Secretary of the Navy Franklin Roosevelt and scope of government. But it has been been glossed imposed a strike settlement on Bethlehem their opponents who have accused them of Steel’s Fore River Shipyard. “creeping socialism,” while advocates have over by This socialist America was anything but avoided the S-word. friendly to civil rights and civil liberties. Some major policies of Franklin Roosevelt’s historians. Wilson imposed racial segregation on the New Deal — Social Security most of all — federal workforce and shut down German remain part of the fabric of American life. cultural organizations. His government As former Sen. Phil Gramm has argued, prosecuted and jailed the Socialist government transfer payments have effectively presidential candidate Eugene Debs for defending men equalized the incomes of those on the bottom 60% of imprisoned for obstructing the military draft. the economic ladder. “Everything,” Arnold Kling wrote, “so far has But virtually no attention, so far as I can see, has described a state expanding — seizing, planning, been paid to the period in U.S. history when the government took maximum control of the private-sector rationing, prosecuting, persuading. The last movement is the one the buildup does not prepare you for, and it is the economy, including the dissemination of information heart of the matter: how fast nearly all of it came apart.” and communication of opinion. The War Industries Board voted to dissolve itself That moment came more than 100 years ago, before on New Year’s Day 1919, less than two months after the emergence not only of the internet but also of radio the Armistice; the War Labor Board lapsed; the food and talking motion pictures. It lasted only briefly, and fuel controls ended; Congress (Republican after and its implications have mostly been glossed over by the November 1918 election) returned the railroads to historians. private owners in the Transportation Act of 1920. The centerpiece is the set of policies adopted by Wilson’s Democratic Party was punished in the Woodrow Wilson’s administration and an acquiescent presidential election that year. The Democratic ticket Democratic Congress during the 19 months from April of James Cox and Franklin Roosevelt got 34% of the 1917 to November 1918, during which the United States popular vote. The Republican ticket of Warren Harding was at war with Germany and its allies in World War I. and Calvin Coolidge got 60%, the highest percentage in This creation of an American state that would “seize any election up to that date. the railroad, ration the coal, set the price of wheat, You can find elements of Wilson’s wartime socialism conscript four million men, and prosecute the printed in some self-described experiments within Roosevelt’s word” was the work of progressive reformers convinced New Deal. But when war came, he didn’t choose to that experts could do better than seemingly chaotic nationalize the railroads and industries. Instead, he got markets in running the economy but who had been William Knudsen to enlist executives in moving toward limited in their efforts by public opinion and courts’ wartime production. constitutional doctrines. If you listen to a tape of Roosevelt’s speech to Wilson’s War Industries Board, headed by Wall Street Congress on Dec. 8, 1941, the loudest applause, cheers speculator Bernard Baruch, set out “to decide, for the and rebel yells came after he said, “The American whole nation, what got made, from what materials, in people, in their righteous might, will win through to what quantities, at what price, and in what order of absolute victory.” Socialism, he evidently thought, was priority.” His food administration, headed by mining not the way to get there. engineer Herbert Hoover, pushed for “meatless Maybe there’s a lesson there for the public today. Tuesdays and wheatless Wednesday (and) victory gardens,” and doubled the price of wheat so that U.S. Michael Barone is a senior political analyst for farmers could feed allies in Europe. the Washington Examiner, resident fellow at the The government seized the railroads in December American Enterprise Institute and longtime co1917, and Treasury Secretary William McAdoo “set the author of “The Almanac of American Politics.” schedules, the rates, the wages, unified the equipment, (Copyright 2026 Creators.com) and cut the competitive duplication.” It ran the system
COLUMN STEPHEN MOORE
Five lessons learned from the Fauci fiasco COVID-19 was a traumatic experience for our families, This was small businesses, schools and country. Understandably, one of the people don’t like thinking or greatest talking about it. But we must. We now know, thanks to abuses of Sen. Rand Paul’s doggedness government and Anthony Fauci’s supreme power in arrogance that he freely expresses in his diary, almost American every decision made by the history. medical industrial complex was exactly the wrong thing to do. Fauci has blown himself up, and almost overnight he has gone from hero to antihero. Politicians and the media didn’t take note of the fact that Fauci had a track record of hysterical and erroneous predictions about viruses before — he was, for example, the public health official peddling the nonsense about heterosexual AIDS. Instead, when Fauci went on TV in front of tens of millions of Americans preaching Armageddon and contradicting everything Trump was saying, he became a saint. No wonder Fauci developed a god complex. So what have we learned — or what should we have learned? One of the first takeaways from this sordid affair is that never again should we let politicians and “scientists” throw away Americans’ basic constitutional and human rights and lock down our economy, businesses, churches, stores and schools. This was one of the greatest abuses of government power in American history. We know that lockdowns did not save lives because states like Florida that opened up their economies early had no higher death rates than states that shut down for nine months to a year. The second takeaway is that we learned once again that the teachers unions don’t care about kids. Without unions’ outsized political power, schools across the country, especially in blue states, would have opened up at least six months earlier. Instead, healthy kids who were never vulnerable to the virus lost up to a year of schooling, which will lower their lifetime earnings by trillions of dollars over the next 40 years. This was child abuse. Remember this the next time the teachers unions spout off about how much they care about “the children.” The third takeaway is that the media must apologize to the American people for being so willingly bamboozled by a con man. They believed him because they desperately wanted to take down President Donald Trump. You can go to YouTube and watch for an hour the slobbering devotion that all the networks, The New York Times and CNN poured over Fauci. The fourth takeaway is that we must remember that Fauci had an accomplice, and that was Deborah Birx. This was a Bonnie and Clyde operation. Birx has recently thrown Fauci under the bus and expressed how shocked she was by some of the admissions in his diary. But she was the lead voice in favor of school lockdowns, and she even bragged about it. She should be brought before Paul’s committee. Something tells me she would be advised by counsel to take the Fifth as well. Finally, we need to always have our guard up when politicians and “experts” tell us to “follow the science” — such a dangerous proclamation. Whose science? Is it the science of those who 50 years ago told us the world was overpopulated and we were all going to run out of food? Was it the experts who threw phony models in our face about “global warming”? Was it the people who warned that fracking, which has added $5 trillion to the U.S. economy, was going to pollute the drinking water and cause earthquakes? As many readers know, I was singled out by Fauci in his diary for trying to stop the lockdowns in early 2020. I had visited Trump in the Oval Office and pleaded with him to get the economy reopened as quickly as possible, something the president very much wanted to do. Fauci also tried to silence Scott Atlas, who served as a health adviser to Trump and opposed lockdowns. A government official telling the president to “shut up Stephen Moore” was not just asking the president to take away my right to free speech, it was an attempt to silence all opposition to the government policy. The sweet irony is that in the end, the only one Fauci shut up was himself. Stephen Moore is co-founder of Unleash Prosperity and a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
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EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL
COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO
to this get back to norm The comfo How Chinawe willbegin payThe for COVID-19 3 big questionsc
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026 WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at China lied about the origin of the ONE THING IS CERTAIN; after thisthanks COVID-19 virus cavalierofmanner orders to local ordissipates state governments,The a majority Ameri WEEK, virus, according to members tried to tell the world there were only “THIS around the globe and in the United will to pay forTHIS this covered up its spI areStates, havingChina to adjust what is being called the “new normal.” and state and local governments, Amer worldwide panic, economic collapse and in it” (Psal catastrophe one way or another. 3,341 related ha Some of these orders extend at least through the end deaths of this m or stay-at-home fallen into place. I understand the seriousness of the virus and the need the curve in the novel coronavirus outbr ylace being thrown out of work. I know In order to put the crisis causedVirginia’s by Chinastay-at-home in perspective, zero go into June. millions of Americans t orders ority of at Americans to take precautions, but I’m uneasy with how people who simply ask — after all, trends canhas easily xpayer least $2.4 trillion in added working fr worldwide pandemics can trace their source to theCarolina, Unitedmuted States over costrev th Here in North Democratic Gov.The Roycrisis Cooper stated d w normal.” questions back to have abided by recommendations and o ral Reserve backup liquidity to the about the data, and when things can start getting be glad” as our 231-year history. At least fourainrecent the 20th century alone be that “we debt plus trillions coronavirus press can briefing just don’t know more yet” end of this month. are treated in some circles with contempt. to flu,” stay 1977 at home; they’ve practiced socialto the U.S. dollar were notnormal the reserve dad, directly traced to China: flu,” 1968 “Hong orders Kong markets financial state’s stay-at-home will extend into May. andand Since when1957 did “Asian They’re treated as though we as a society simply must accept without they’ve donned masks. o fund any of these emergency have tonot bet “Russian flu” and the 2002 SARS outbreak. There is evidence that the currency, would Perhaps If he it, questions should bewe asked as to Wedoes needdecide to extend WALTER E. WILLIAMS questioning ooper stated during question what the government tells us about when it’s massive safe to begin the The result: a reduction in expected ho Lenten and ar of rampant inflation and currency pandemic. 1918 “Spanish flu” pandemic also had for its origins in China. measures without justification it. And the answers should not be vague onesimm like COVID-19 n’t know yet” if the process of returning back to normalcy. transparency According to the University of Washing For me, Easter seasons government There is 100% agreement, outside of do China, thatofCOVID-19 depreciation. must this out an abundance of caution.” is China’s No. The government works for us, and we have the right to askin those Metrics and Evaluation model most oftA rrant ways and decisions through and honesty originated Wuhan Province probably from the has to pay for provide a China at all levels It will need tocompletely be explained in detail to the people ofmaking. this state e asked as to the And the longer stay-at-home orders are in place all over the Trump administration, the expected ne Diplomacy has obviouslyquestions. not worked Corinthian Chernobyl. unregulated and unsanitary wet markets. believe it came of at a home economic and financia fromSome our to are being told remain joblessout and message offor an undetermine become a vague likecentury “we health, country, and the stricter some of them get in states, such as Michigan, peak outbreak was revised down by ove worldones of 21st hygiene affliction, biowarfare lab run by the communist Chinese army. to we bring China into the scientific experts amount of time why models predicting hundreds thousands o hope that willof bad thing? thethe more people, sitting at home feeling isolated and/or anxious about ventilators by nearly 13,000 and the nu munist regimes never take blame affliction, Until China adopts rigorous verifiable policing and regulation of and fair trade. Totalita are reliable. — we need to again enjoy sincere e of this state who when will demand August byonce nearly 12,000. morse, because that is not whatthey can get back to providing for their families,their God.” That is what food safety and health protocols, American business nowhat other or express To know date, what I’ve gone alonghas with the state has asked andregre then they undetermined answers. Here’s the problem: We still don’t kno sporting events, ey take advantage of every weakness If you ar choice than tofree build redundant manufacturing totalitarian citizens mandated thatplants we do,elsewhere but alongpurely the way I’ve also had governmen questions a of cases at the local and state levels should be as forthcoming as they know, what they questions that will allow the economy to pf thousands pushing until they win orLeaders the reflect on concerts, family for national security and safety reasons as well as supply and delivery they find in adversaries the data. State Republican leaders have, too. as living in a free can be with those answers — and again, not vague answers, but concerns. answer First, what is the true coronavirus fat God’sback. exam don’t and when reliability adversaries gatherings, Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get push asked, ther AMERICA’S COLLEGES are rife with society were asked and then with details that give their statements believability. important because it determines wheth event happens such as the Chernobyl this difficu The most direct way to make China “pay”hope for this is to offer That is, unless an exo they to disaster h corruption. The financial squeeze resulting sometimes a disturbing tendency among people to treat th church some services ad questions about We should to do what we can to keep our families, be open or closed,meltdown whether we oughtSom to s believe that event, not the Star Warsall continue confident supposed from COVID-19 offers opportunities for a defense U.S. tax credits to companies whosimply willknow source at least halfdata ofengineering, their in 1986. The contractor what they questioning the and asking when we can start gettin aviation mainteand many more Sponsored by Union and our communities safe. But we should also still continue more liberalized society that presumes w Sponsored to the dissolution of theourselves, Soviet In thisled sw bit of remediation. Let’s first examine what production back in the States. There is though approximately $120 program of are Reagan, will create 162 droneby to do, lastUnited I to normal as they are conspiracy theorists or people nance, information technology don’t. after our own get asked, there to of ask questions about the data, because while reasonable stay-at-home ought to lock down further. mightisbe the root academic corruption, neighbors billion worth checked. of American direct investment in plants and equipment inor 1989. and technical fields. manufacturing jobs otherwise don’t care if they getother themselves others sick. s. title of a recent study, ple to treatsuggested those by the measures are understandable, they should also have an date. direct investment in the U.S. is about $65We’ve seen rates — Conc the ni temporary Chernobyl. In That workforce isallparticuinexpiration China. Chinese billion by case fatality Perhaps COVID-19 in Fayetteville Since when did questioning government at levels become a “Academic and to theAmericans, and it is not normal. Not in any way, North State Journal for Wednesday, April 15, an starttalking getting backGrievance ThisStudies is all new the number of identified COVID-19 cas lready about the possibility larly concentrated around Fort money to b sacrifices are comparison. Senators in Washing thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supp Corruption of Scholarship.” The study was we should remain vigilant and stay safe, at or are people who shape, or form. So while Bragg, which has about 50,000 and the denominator are likely wrong. W n debt we owe them as one way to get health car An investment tax credit of 30% U.S. investment in China over. of China forgiving $1.2 toon do,half lastof I checked. done by Areo, an opinion and analysisBy Dan Reeves troopshave and 14,000 civilian ems sick. same time we shouldn’t get comfortable with this so-called “newbillion, applied to repatriated American manufacturing people actually died of coronaviru hey have caused US. the Don’t hold your today, or $60 China toserves “pay” d digitalthe magazine. By the way, Areo is North short State Journal My first concern as we go along in all this, of course, isfor mythe fam ployees. The installation vels badbut ask normal.” number has been overestimated, given bilee” to happen your elected n become foraAreopagitica, a speech delivered by investment to the U.S. would costworried the U.S.about Treasury billion in breath waiting for a Ch them$18 catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. A headquarters for the XVIII iety were supposed Not one little bit. ofasdeath, particularly among elderly pat countable in tangible financial ways for John Milton in defense of free speech. tax revenue spread over a few years. $18 billion lost revenue is(swine hold suffering fromin the H1N1 virus flu) representatives during the 2009topande Airborne Corps, Army Special FAYETTEVILLE — A globin. Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A.al drone manufacturer plans to sources suggest the number is dramatic decimal dust compared to the $6 I’ve trillion+ Plan extra weOperations areprecautions, now Command, this disaster. Army been Marshall trying to take because all of this brin Lindsay and Peter Boghossian say has that rse, to is my family. Stacey Matthews also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah many people are dying at home. cted operate as I’m responsible citizens of Reserve and thetimenot establish its first flagship U.S. undertaking to save our own economy, notmany of defeated enemies as in Command the It is about they way too memories of a painful experience I’ d prefer to something drastically wrong rried I will. After has gone and is a regular contributor RedState and Legal Insurrection. Even more importantly, we have no c nation. 82nd Airborne Division. productionto operation in Faypast. the world like any othe But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone in academia, especially within certain he 2009 pandemic, N.C. have Commerce Secretary etteville, creating 162 jobs and actually coronavirus. Some scienti China has been cheating, stealing, pirating and pillaging American fields within the humanities. They call Lee Lilley said those military investing more than $3.1 milall of this brings up of identified cases could be an order of m business now for the past 30 years. They have made no secret that they with the state’s these fields “grievance studies,” wherelion in Cumberland County. ties, combined Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill,corona senio prefer notscholarship to repeat. is not so much based upon number of people who have had intend to replace the U.S. as the premier superpower in the universities, world and community colSkyeton Inc., the Las Vemost everyone hastruth but upon attending to finding replace the dollar as the reserve currency with their renminbi. leges and industry partnerships, gas-based U.S. subsidiary RALEIGH — North Carolina
business & economy
Fixing college n.c. corruption FAST
FACTS
Skyeton to invest more than $3.1M in first flagship US production facility A6
NC researchers test wastewater as tool for tracking nutrition trends Approved Logos
social grievances. Grievance scholars
north STA COURTESY SKYETON PRESS OFFICE
have helped North Carolina deof Ukrainian-born Skyeton researchers are testing whether bully students, administrators and other velop into a center for defense Holdings, will operate from A Skyeton Raybird unmanned aerial vehicle takes off during municipal sewer systems can departments into adhering to their a 28,500-square-foot facility winter testing. innovation and manufacturing. do more than monitor disease worldview.They Themay worldview is it will design, engineer, Jason outbreaks: also they promote “With investments in rewhere n neitherascientific nor rigorous. | STACEY MATTHEWS provide near-real-time picture Grievance search, industry partnerships, manufacture, EDITORIAL test, distribute ose studies consist of disciplines of what entire communities aresuch as and support unmanned aeri- 350,000 combat flight hours in ry an average annual salary of and our world-class colleges sociology, anthropology, gender studies, eating. more than $70,000, although and universities, we are creatal systems used by defense and Ukraine. COLUMN REP. HUDSON queer studies, andat critical race A study led bysexuality researchers ingRICHARD an environment where innoby job. That |figAccording to Skyeton, the pay will vary commercial customers. studies. Duke University and UNC Chapel The company’s expansion Raybird can remain airborne ure is more than $21,000 above vative companies like Skyeton 2017 and 2018, authors Hill In used DNA sequencing to Pluckrose, gives the Fayetteville region for about 28 hours, travel more Cumberland County’s average can support our national securiLindsaytraces and Boghossian identify of plant and started another foothold in the grow- than 1,500 miles and operate annual wage. At the announced ty, grow their business, and sucs animal foodsbogus in wastewater submitting academic papers toing defense technology indus- with a standard real-time data average, the jobs would generate ceed,” Lilley said. serving more than 2 million academic journals in cultural, queer, try while placing Skyeton near link extending nearly 150 miles. an estimated annual payroll of Fayetteville Technical ComNorth Thesexuality method studies race, Carolinians. gender, fat and munity College and the North about $11.5 million. The aircraft can carry camerFort Bragg, the nation’s largest could give policymakers a to determine if they would pass peer military installation by popu- as, radar systems, radiofrequenThe state will support the proj- Carolina Community College faster and less expensive way to “THIS IS THEfallen DAY the lord has mad he seriousness of the virus and the review and be accepted for need publication. MOST STATES either or stay-at-home place. I unde System are among theinto orgaect with a shelter-in-place performance-based locating equipment, and under lation and home to the Army’s cy andWITH measure nutrition trends, food Acceptance of dubious in it” (Psalm 118:24). asy with how people who simplyresearch ask that airborne and special operations other orders thanks to local governments, a majority of Americans to take bu nizations supporting theprecautions, projgrant of $500,000 from the sensors depending on or thestate access and the results of public journal editors found sympathetic to forces. their I know that during this challenging hen thingsprograms. can start getting back to potentially providing a local North Carolina Fund.normal.” The ect, mission. are having to adjust to what One is being called the “new questions about the datt intersectional or postmodern leftist vision working from home or losing a job, it es with contempt. pipeline for manufacturing and program provides money to loTheSome Fayetteville “We’re proud to welcome developed of theseplant orderswill extend at least through the end of this month. normal are treated inm s ofResearchers the world would proveathe problemSkyeton of technical workers. cal governments to help recruit those capabilities closer to a state with such bring be glad” as the Bible tells us to do. How as a society simply must accept without platform called FoodSeq-FLOW Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June. They’re treated as th low academic standards. partners include the military customers and companies while encouraging andOther to analyze food DNA in dad, the Easter holiday hasthe remind ells us about when residual it’s safefake to begin thepapersa proud military tradition to U.S.Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during question what gove Several of the research Economic Development Partjob creation and private investstrengthen the company’s doand advanced manufactursewage. The study examined have to be thankful and hopeful for, ev malcy. were accepted for publication. The Fat a recent coronavirus press briefing that “we just don’t know yet” if the process of returning ba nership of North Carolina, the 183 samples collected from 21 ing base,” Gov. Josh Stein said mestic manufacturing presence, ment. and pandemic. r us, and we have journal thetreatment right to facilities ask those Studies published a hoax paper state’s stay-at-home orders willSkyeton extendLenten intonot May. No. AssemThe government wastewater will receive the North Carolina General Skyeton CEO Rigoberto “Quito” in announcing Since the project. “By when did thatidentified argued the was For me, myInfrastructure faith is an important par t-home orders are in place all bodybuilding over seasons and 184term plant foodsthe If he does decide to extendmoney it, questions should be asked as tothe the questions. And the long bly, Rural Auup Easter front. The company combining our manufactur- Sáez said. exclusionary and should be replaced ing workforce, questioning making. As I celebrated Easter with my f them getand in states, such as Michigan, 123 animal food types. The thority, Cumberland County, the must meet job creation and cap“Expanding our manufacthe skillsets of justification for it. And the answers should notabe vague ones like “we country, and the stricte provide with “fat bodybuilding, as a1fat-inclusive estimated cost was less than government Corinthians 1:4, which reminds us our e feeling isolated and/or anxious about city of Fayetteville and the Fayital investment targets before footprint in North Carour transitioning military per- turing must do this out of an abundance of caution.” the more people, sitting message of politicized performance.” One reviewer cent per person. etteville Cumberland grant payments, and about moretothan open- receiving sonnel, a centralatEast Coast lo- olina is affliction, so thatwhen we Economic may able com ding for their families, will demand all levels It will need be explained in detail to the people of this state who theybecan gettoback ns said, “I thoroughly enjoyed reading this The findings were published that awematchwill Development Corporation. requires cation, and a strategic trans- ing a new facility,” Sáez said. “It’s the award hope affliction, with the comfort which we ou are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined answers. , article and it has an important July 20 in thebelieve Proceedings of the become a State Sen. Val Applewhite from local God.” about strengthening America’s ing commitment portation infrastructure, once again enjoy levels should be as forthcoming as they contribution to make to the field and this National Academy of Sciences. amount of timebase, why creatmodels government. predicting hundreds of thousands of cases Leaders at the local a (D-Cumberland) said the projindustrial North Carolinabad continues thing? to defense sporting events, If you are celebrating the Easter seas d again, not vague answers, but The approach builds onanswer journal.” reliable. American jobs, with those answ theberegion’s The project also fits North ect strengthens can high-quality rise to the top ranks as the best ing are wastewater surveillance “Our Struggle Is My systems Struggle: Solidarity That is what reflect on this message and be comforte ments believability. concerts, family To date, I’ve gone along with what the state effort has asked then to competewith details that give th for additionCarolina’s broader to re-andability combat-proven place to do business, especial- and delivering expanded during the COVID-19 Reply to Feminism as anfamilies, Intersectional God’s example comfort in what we can to keep our al defense and and manufacturing cruit aerospace, advanced mancapabilities closer to the warfly in the aerospace and defense free citizens mandated that we do, but along the way I’ve also had questions about We shouldallallthose contin gatherings, pandemic toand track the spread se Neoliberal Choice Feminism,” was this difficult time. Through faith and b safe. But of we should also still continue investments. ufacturing and defense comighters we exist to serve.” sectors.” the data. State Republican leaders have, too. services ourselves, and our com the virus.for Nutrition research church living in a free accepted publication by Affilia, a Skyeton’s primary “The strength of our defense panies by marketing the state’s Sáez said support from state platform confident we will emerge out of this pan because while reasonable stay-at-home has traditionally relied on food Unfortunately, when certain types ofand questions get asked, there is to ask questions about s feminist journal for social workers. The many more were and local manufacturing workforce and pipeline and economic develop- military population is the Raybird,society a long-endurInthose this same spirit, I continue to be i hey shoulddiaries also have an expiration and surveys, sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treat measures are understa paper consisted in which part ofcan adate. rewrittenance unmanned aircraft de- ment will continue to drive economof transitioning service memofficials, North Carolina’s after our own be costly, slow and to other supposed neighbors helping neighbors. and it is not normal. Not invulnerable any way,Two passage from Mein Kampf. simply questioning data bers. and asking when20,000 we canmilistart getting back This all new to Am ic growth and position ouriscomMoretemporary than delegationtheand veloped for intelligence, sur- congressional reporting. In Concord, a shape, highfor school senior nam uld remainincomplete vigilant and stay safe, at including hoax papers were published, to do, last I to normal as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who or form. So whil munity to compete more tary personnel enter North Carmilitary partners helped the veillance and reconnaissance “Poor diet is one of the world’s . “Rape Culture and Queer Performativity money to buy a 3-D printer and plastic comfortable with this so-called “new sacrifices are otherwise care if they get themselves or others sick. same time we shou this,” Appleolina’s civilian workforce each opportunities likethe selectdon’t Fayetteville. missions. The company says the company biggest drivers of chronic checked. at Urban Dog Parks.” This paper’s subject care workers out of his own hom white said. manyover. withatexperience in health TheSince 162 positions car- year, system has logged more than disease, but we’ve never had a when didwill questioning government all levels become a bad normal.” was dog-on-dog rape. But the dog rape fast, objective way to measure thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed Not one little bit. paper eventually forced Boghossian, what people eat,” said Lawrence to do, last I checked. Pluckrose and Lindsay to prematurely out David, a Duke associate en under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah My first concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. I’m Stacey Matthews has a themselves. Wall Street Journal writer professor andAsenior author of RedState and Legal Insurrection. had figured out what they were doing. worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After and is a regular contri the study. He said the method Some papers accepted for publication could better connect diet trends suffering from the H1N1 virus (swine flu) during the 2009 pandemic, go and hear about their trips.” inhealth. academic journals advocated training to I’ve been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings up The brothers have used a men dogsshowed and punishing white male Thelike results cautious, slow-and-steady busiway too many memories of a painful experience I’ d prefer not to repeat. college students for historical slavery by measurable differences tied ness model But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has to grow the business to income, population asking them to sit in density, silence on the floor in and keep it successful. They do immigration andclass geography. in chains during and to be expected to not have investors and have Communities with higher learn from the discomfort. Other papers used Arrow’s profits to open incomes showed more tracesas a healthy life ity celebrated morbid obesity new locations. of barleyand andadvocated hops, ingredients choice treating privately June was Arrow’s record commonly used in beer. conducted masturbation as a form ofThe barbershop plans two 1033 Johnnie Dodds, and the cuts and beard trims — the core month for sales, with 18,000 Areas larger against foreign-born d sexualwith violence women. Typically, Charleston-area locations West Ashley location will open of classic barbering services — services recorded. In 2025, Arpopulations consumed more as academic journal editors send submitted in mid-2027 at a new develop- and our services are affordable,” row completed 196,000 sertropical legumes. papers fruits out toand referees for review. In vices, which range in price from Phipps said. ment called Ashley Landing. Coastal communities showed recommending acceptance for publication, The Short Cut — the classic $17 to $44, according to Ar“Charleston has a vibrant By Elizabeth Lincicome greater consumption of locally many reviewers gave these papers glowing economy and a lot of young pro- clipper-and-scissor cut, which row’s website, putting estimatFor North State Journal caught species, including praise. triggerfish and bluefish, while fessionals, so we think that over 80% of clients get — starts at ed revenue in the mid-seven Political scientistconsumed Zach Goldberg ran RALEIGH — Arrow Hair- time, it will continue to grow, $33. inland communities figures. ss certain grievance studies more farmed fish such as concepts through “It is important to us that we “We want clients to get a cuts opened its first Raleigh and we’ll be able to get three, d the Lexis/Nexis database, often Atlantic salmon and tilapia. to see how location in 2013 after entre- four, even more shops down great cut at an approachable remain independently owned,” they appeared ourhigher press over the years. Urban areas alsoinhad price,” Phipps said. “Clients love Phipps said. “We have grown at preneurial brothers Andy there,” Phipps said. He found hugefood increases plant-to-animal ratios.in the usages What sets the chain apart is the ability to schedule their ap- a slow rate over the years, both and Pete Phipps recognized ofResearchers “white privilege,” “unconscious bias,” said the data the area needed a good men’s the vibe and energy customers pointments online, which 95% to remain independent and ng “critical race theory” and “whiteness.”barbershop. could eventually help state to maintain the quality of our of them do.” experience at Arrow. All local of this is being taught to college and leaders evaluate Arrow now employs 85 peo- team.” “Most guys look at getting a “We joke that at the time we nutrition direct become primary students,programs, many of whom From the start, the Phipps had both been getting bad hair- haircut as an errand,” Phipps ple. Phipps declined to share food-security investments c. and secondary school teachers who then said. “We wanted to create an 2025 revenue but said the com- brothers have sought to make cuts, so we thought, ‘Hey, there and measure whether policy indoctrinate our young people. Arrow a cornerstone of the loatmosphere where a haircut pany is up 5% year over year. changes arewhether reachingthe thecoronavirus- might be an opportunity for us n I doubt cal community by participating “At the end of the day, we was fun. From the start, we to pull off a barbershop,’” Andy intended communities. caused financial crunch will give college in local events, donating to lothink that if the stylists are haphave hired stylists with great said. Possible applications include o? and university administrators, who are Pete a served in the Army and personalities, offered clients a py, they’re in turn going to have cal nonprofits, showcasing local tracking the effects of changes crossbreed between a parrot and jellyfish, then moved to Raleigh. Andy free beer — some of which are a higher likelihood of giving artists and artisans and partto Supplemental Nutrition the guts and backbone to restore academic nering with local breweries. haircut-themed collaborations great customer service.” was living in Denver. Assistance Program benefits, respectability. Far too often, they get much “Coming to Charleston, we Phipps said one of the key el“We were complaining about with local breweries — and deschool meal programs or of their political support from campus how poor the experience was at signed spaces that feel upbeat. ements of success from a lead- look forward to participating in economic downturns. grievance people who are members ofthe thegeneric chains we had gone From how we decorate our mer- ership perspective has been of- the local community,” he said. The technology still has faculty and diversity and multicultural Phipps said he has his eye limitations. Temperature can to,” Andy said. “Growing up in a ch to our ‘Guaranteed Shorter fering stylists the best place to administrative degrade samples,offices. industrial on further expansion into othsmall town in Ohio, we remem- Hair’ tagline, we want the Ar- grow their careers. best hope lies with boards of bered how the barbershop was row brand to be fun.” andThe agricultural wastewater “We offer top pay, health er towns, including Cary, Apex, trustees, though many serve as yes-men can complicate results, and Typical Arrow clients range benefits, bonuses and anniver- Holly Springs and Knightdale. a cornerstone of the local comfor the university president. a communities relying on septic I think that “I’d like to find something munity. We wanted to create a from boys getting their first sary trips,” he said. “We believe good start would be to find 1950s or 1960s systems are not included. similar culture, but in a space haircuts to gentlemen ap- if we serve our team well, they’ll south and heading east in the catalogs. Lookare at the at was more modern and proaching 100 years old, and be excited to come to work and Triangle,” Phipps said. “If you Researchers nowcourse testingofferingsthat a time when college graduates knew how targeted sampling in Durham there is a loyal following that offer over-the-top service to take a place like Apex or Holly fun.” tostudy read,dietary write and compute, to patterns at theand make Springs, those used to be more Fast-forward to 2026, and continues through various their clients.” neighborhood level. They Another are them today’s curricula. helpful One indicator that the strat- bedroom communities. Now Arrow now has 11 locations phases of life. also with toolworking would be to community give careful consideration “It has been really fun over egy is working is the number of there are big office parks and spanning Raleigh, Charlotte, leaders to determine whether the to eliminating all classes/majors/minors the years to have customers team members who have been manufacturing and so forth in Durham and Chapel Hill, with findings can support to such as containing the wordefforts “studies,” whose hair we cut in college, with the company for more them. So we would start to see two more on the way in the attract grocery other studies. women, Asian,stores blackand or queer that balance between live and Charleston, South Carolina, then before their weddings, and than 10 years. food resources to underserved I’d bet that by restoring the traditional work that we want and that we “We send our team on trips now we are giving their kids area. The Mount Pleasant loareas. academic mission to colleges, they would
s’
VISUAL VOICES
It’s okay to ask questions about when The comfort and ho we begin to get back to normal
Raleigh brothers behind Arrow Haircuts expand into SC
cation will open Aug. 21 in the put a serious dent into the COVID-19newly renovated Fairmount NSJ budget shortfall. Landing shopping center at Walter E. Williams is a professor of economics at George Mason University.
haircuts,” Phipps said. “Services range from short cuts, long cuts, skin fades, buzz
for their fifth and 10th anniversaries,” he said. “It is so much fun to see where they chose to
think makes our model work. In that stretch, I think there’s going to be opportunity.”
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Social media companies sued over 4 teen deaths as child safety lawsuits mount Families from North Carolina, Texas, Florida, Minnesota and Tennessee filed complaints By Kaitlyn Huamani and Barbara Ortutay The Associated Press THE FAMILIES of four teenagers who died by suicide are suing Meta, TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube over what they describe as “years of escalating harms” from using their platforms that eventually resulted in their deaths. The lawsuit, filed last Thursday in the Superior Court of Delaware, is the latest in a flurry of suits filed against the social media giants that alleges their platforms are addictive and dangerous. The complaint was filed on behalf of four families from North Carolina, Texas, Minnesota and Tennessee whose children died over 14 months from July 2024 through September 2025. The Social Media Victims Law Center is bringing the suit on behalf of the families, and its founding attorney, Matthew Bergman, said it’s “particularly salient” that the children in this case died “long after” similar suits had been filed. “These platforms continue to kill kids despite the platitudes of their executives,” Bergman said in an interview. “This is a clear and present danger to the health and safety of children, not just in the United States but around the world.” The four teens who died by suicide each experienced harms including social media addiction, severe sleep deprivation, depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation after years of using the social platforms, the complaint states. Livi Castro died at
13, Riv Kelleher at 14, Nathaniel Chambers at 17 and Dawson Holden at 18. The complaint alleges the social media companies knew they were causing harm to young users. A spokesperson for Google, which owns YouTube, said in a statement that “providing young people with a safer, healthier experience has always been core to our work. In collaboration with mental health and parenting experts, we’ve built services and policies to provide young people with age-appropriate experiences, and parents with robust controls. We send our deepest sympathies to the families and are reviewing the claims in this lawsuit.” Representatives for Meta, TikTok and Snap did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Sacha Haworth, executive director of The Tech Oversight Project, said in a statement that parents, activists and whistleblowers have come forward and met with lawmakers for years and “while Congress has dragged its feet, more children have died.” Federal legislation of social media has moved at a glacial pace. The Senate passed the Kids Online Safety Act — which had the support of parents’ groups and children’s advocacy organizations — exactly two years before this lawsuit was filed. The House of Representatives never voted on that version of the legislation, and the House and Senate are currently disagreeing on key provisions they think should be included. “Livi, Nathaniel, Dawson, and Riv’s stories are proof that Big Tech companies continue to lie about the safety of their products, choosing instead to pour hundreds of millions of dollars
AP PHOTO
The families of four teenagers who died by suicide are suing social media companies Meta, TikTok, Snapchat and YouTube. into false advertising, deceptive paid partnerships with trusted education programs and political lobbying,” Haworth’s statement continued. Meta, YouTube, TikTok and Snap are facing numerous state and federal lawsuits over harms to minors. Meta is on trial in Tennessee this week for a lawsuit brought by the state attorney general claiming the company deliberately designed its platforms, notably Instagram, to make them addictive to young people and did not warn them of its dangers. Meta is heading to trial in federal court this month in Oakland, California, to face four of dozens of states that sued the company in 2023. That lawsuit says the company is contributing to the youth mental health crisis by designing addictive features
Questions remain about the free flow of crude from the Middle East
and violated federal law by collecting data on kids under 13 without parental consent. Not all lawsuits are successful, and many are settled out of court. Last week, a Florida teenager dropped his case against Meta that was set to go to trial in state court in Los Angeles without receiving any payment from the company. Meta had argued that the teen used his Instagram and Facebook for only minutes a day, on average, and created most accounts only after hiring a lawyer in his case. Still, the mounting court cases can get expensive, even for a company like Meta Platforms. Earlier this week Meta said it had $2.4 billion in legal expenses in the second quarter, which contributed to a relatively unusual 14% profit decline.
crude rose 2.1% to $88.68 after careening between $72 and $102 earlier in July. Higher oil prices have pushed the cost for a gallon of regular gasoline to an average of nearly $4.11 across the United States, up from $3.85 a month ago, according to AAA.
By Michelle Chapman The Associated Press
U.S. economy grows sluggish 1.5% in second quarter The U.S. economy expanded at a sluggish 1.5% pace from April through June as rising imports weighed on growth. But consumer spending rose, and the Federal Reserve’s favored measure of inflation grew more slowly last month but remained above the central bank’s 2% target. The Commerce Department reported that growth in U.S. gross domestic product — the nation’s output of goods and services — decelerated from 2.1% in the first three months of 2026 and came in below economists’ expectations. But consumer spending — which accounts for about 70% of U.S. economic activity — increased at a 3.2% annual clip, up from 0.5% in the January-March period. Business investment, excluding housing, rose at an 8.4% pace, down from 10.6% from January through March but strong, reflecting a surge in investment in artificial intelligence.
MARK SCHIEFELBEIN / AP PHOTO
Federal Reserve Board Chairman Kevin Warsh speaks during a news conference at the Federal Reserve in Washington, D.C., last Wednesday. Average 30-year U.S. mortgage rate reaches highest point in a year The average long-term U.S. mortgage rate rose for the fourth consecutive week to its highest level in a year, another setback for prospective homebuyers hoping for a break from elevated home loan borrowing costs. The benchmark 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rate rose to 6.66% from 6.58%, mortgage buyer Freddie Mac said last Thursday. One year ago, the average rate was 6.72%. Borrowing costs on 15-year fixed-rate mortgages, often sought by borrowers refinancing a home loan, also rose this week. That average rate increased to 6.04% from 5.96% last week. A year ago, it was at 5.85%, Freddie Mac said. Americans’ confidence in U.S. economy stalls Americans’ confidence in the economy fell this month as gas prices ticked up along with the fighting between the U.S. and Iran. The Conference Board said
Canada’s second-largest airline, WestJet, has reached a tentative agreement with flight attendants to end a strike that led to hundreds of flight cancellations and thousands of stranded passengers. The union representing the flight attendants said Monday that if the deal is ratified, the agreement will provide for a duty period premium that recognizes more of the work cabin crew are required to perform and increases compensation for that work.
Mich. Supreme Court rejects Enbridge oil pipeline
US economy expands at sluggish pace, mortgage rate hit highest point in year
THE ECONOMY, inflation and how those forces could impact the lives of Americans were front and center over the past week. Trips to the grocery store and gas station are more painful than they were last year, and rising costs are impacting the decisions of both households and businesses. Here’s a snapshot of prominent economic data and news that occurred over the past week and what it potentially means for you.
WestJet reaches tentative deal with flight attendants
last Tuesday that its consumer confidence index fell to 90.8 in July from 92.2 in June. That’s essentially the same tepid range it’s been in since the beginning of the year. In late 2024 and early 2025, the readings were well above 100. Consumer attitudes had improved modestly in June as gas prices came down to about $3.70 a gallon from more than $4.50 a gallon in late April and early May. But as fighting in the Middle East escalated, the average price for a gallon of regular gas in the U.S. started to rise again. Prices ticked up again overnight to $4.11 per gallon, according to the auto club AAA. Stocks swing as Wall Street wraps up wild July The U.S. stock market swung wildly but ended the week with gains. Amazon leapt, Apple sank, and rising oil prices added to worries about inflation already squeezing the bond market. Questions remain about when crude will flow freely again from the Middle East. The price for a barrel of Brent
The Michigan Supreme Court has ordered state regulators to reconsider a permit for a tunnel carrying an oil pipeline under the Great Lakes. This decision affects part of the 73-year-old Line 5 pipeline owned by Enbridge, which runs from Wisconsin to Ontario. Enbridge wants to bury the pipeline in a tunnel under the Straits of Mackinac, but environmentalists oppose it. They want to shut down the pipeline under the straits entirely, citing potential environmental harm. The court found that regulators failed to assess the tunnel’s environmental impact and alternatives. Enbridge is reviewing its legal options.
Puerto Rico authorizes $2B coastal luxury development San Juan, Puerto Rico Puerto Rico’s government has authorized construction of a $2 billion luxury development in the island’s southwest region that environmentalists have decried, warning it would strain the U.S. territory’s resources and threaten wildlife. The project known as Esencia would be built on 2,000 acres in Cabo Rojo. It would include 500 luxury hotel rooms, 1,200 private residences, two golf courses, an equestrian center, a school from kindergarten to 12th grade and a 24/7 medical center, among other things. Global investment firm Reuben Brothers and real estate development company Three Rules Capital said in a statement last Friday that more than 75% of the project would be dedicated to conservation and green space.
Federal Reserve leaves interest rate unchanged
N.Y. sues prediction market platform Kalshi
The Federal Reserve left its key interest rate unchanged last Wednesday, although three officials dissented in favor of higher rates as the central bank wrestles with how to deal with persistently high inflation. The Fed’s rate-setting committee reached its decision after two days of deliberations, marking the fifth straight meeting at which the benchmark rate was kept at about 3.6%. Some economists and Wall Street analysts had predicted the Fed would hike its rate by a quarter point. But while the decision to stand pat could be seen as good news for consumers, they might not feel much relief with the average credit card rate still near 20% and mortgage rates the highest since last August.
New York officials have sued prediction market platform Kalshi for potentially billions of dollars, calling it an “illegal, unlicensed gambling operation” as the state seeks to halt its operations and force the company to forfeit its profits. New York joins a growing number of states filing lawsuits against Kalshi and other companies in a dispute with President Donald Trump’s administration over who regulates the fast-growing prediction market. New York’s lawsuit was filed last Friday in state Supreme Court in Manhattan. Kalshi and other platforms argue they are federally licensed and regulated, and states have no authority to govern them.
Filings for U.S. unemployment benefits climb
NCDOT CASH REPORT FOR THE WEEK ENDING JULY 30
U.S. filings for jobless aid in the week ending July 25 rose by 9,000 to 197,000, the Labor Department reported last Thursday. The previous week’s figure was revised up by 1,000 to 188,000 but remains the lowest in more than 50 years. Analysts surveyed by the data firm FactSet forecast 207,000 new applications. Weekly filings for unemployment benefits are considered representative of layoffs and are close to a real-time indicator of the health of the U.S. job market.
Beginning Cash
$2,449,714,081 Receipts (income)
$189,606,937 Disbursements
$185,108,979 Cash Balance
$2,454,270,811
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Jones & Blount
Murphy to Manteo
Fitzpatrick named new deputy treasurer of NCCash
A berry bright future: NC blackberries North Carolina has a strong blackberry industry and is one of the leading blackberry-producing states in the southeastern United States. The state’s warm climate, fertile soils and long growing season provide excellent conditions for commercial blackberry production. Blackberries are grown throughout the state, but commercial production is concentrated mainly in the Piedmont and western mountain regions, where well-drained soils and favorable temperatures support high-quality fruit. Some production also occurs in the Coastal Plain, especially where growers use improved management practices. Blackberry farming contributes to the state’s agricultural economy by generating income, creating jobs and supporting agritourism through pick-your-own farms. New blackberry varieties have improved the industry’s productivity and fruit quality. The newest blackberry variety released by NC State’s breeding program is “Ervin,” officially introduced in 2026. It was developed by Gina Fernandez and the NC State caneberry breeding program after years of testing under the experimental name NC 740. The variety is named in honor of Ervin Lineberger, a respected North Carolina blackberry grower who helped advance the state’s blackberry industry. Modern cultivars are bred for larger berries, better flavor, firmer texture, higher yields and greater resistance to diseases. These improved varieties help North Carolina growers meet consumer demand for fresh, high-quality berries while increasing farm profitability and adapting to changing production conditions.
Allen Martin, the department’s longtime deputy treasurer, will retire Sept. 1 By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal
Counties with >= 10 acres Counties with < 10 acres
WEST
PIEDMONT
EAST
Community packs patrol car with back-to-school items
Teens found safe after going missing on Deep River
14-foot hammerhead shark washes up on beach
Henderson County The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office kicked off its annual effort to pack an entire patrol car with school supplies for kids in need Monday. From 8 a.m. until 1 p.m., members of the community dropped off supplies or made a monetary donation to support local students headed back to school. The sheriff’s office partnered with the Walmart on Highlands Square Drive in Hendersonville, and officials said the items collected should go a long way to help start the school year off with everything students need.
Randolph County Two missing and endangered men who did not return from a tubing trip on the Deep River on Sunday were found safe Monday morning, according to a press release from the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office. Eric Hisle, 18, and Talon Laccone, 18, were reported missing by family who said the teens are both autistic. The pair was found after spending the night in the woods. They said one of their inner tubes popped while they were on the river, which forced them to stop tubing.
New Hanover County A 14-foot great hammerhead shark washed ashore on the north end of Carolina Beach on Sunday, according to reports, drawing a response from multiple local agencies and researchers from the North Carolina Shark Conservancy. Because of the shark’s size, a team from Carolina Beach Ocean Rescue, the Carolina Beach Fire Department and the Carolina Beach Police Department worked together to bring the animal fully onto the shore. Experts said the shark was already dead when emergency crews retrieved it.
WLOS
Town calls on artists to help with scavenger hunt sculptures Haywood County Waynesville is calling on artists to design and build seven salamander sculptures for a new public art installation celebrating the area’s unique connection to the Great Smoky Mountains. The public art commission is accepting proposals to design, build and install seven small salamander sculptures for a new interactive scavenger hunt. The project aims to encourage exploration of downtown businesses while celebrating the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, also known as the “salamander capital of the world.” NSJ
Drugs, $100K in stolen property seized in investigation Macon County A criminal investigation by the Macon County Sheriff’s Office’s Criminal Interdiction Unit has led to the recovery of approximately $100,000 in stolen property, the seizure of illegal narcotics and the arrest of a suspect with outstanding warrants. Officials said investigators initially identified a vehicle of interest while working an ongoing investigation. Deputies soon discovered the vehicle was towing a trailer that had previously been reported stolen in an earlier case. As the investigation progressed, deputies located illegal narcotics and uncovered additional stolen property that investigators say is connected to multiple previous investigations. The recovered property is estimated to have a value of approximately $100,000. Authorities arrested Jose Amauri Lopez-Sanchez on active outstanding warrants. Officials say additional criminal charges related to the investigation are expected as detectives continue to process evidence and follow investigative leads. WNC NEWS
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
WFMY
Shelby manufacturing operation closing, employees to be terminated Cleveland County Nearly 300 people will be without a job at the end of August following the closure of a glass fiber production facility in Shelby. According to a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notice released this week, Electric Glass Fiber America (NEG) is laying off 282 employees as the company liquidates its operations. The permanent layoffs will affect employees at the company’s Shelby plant located at 940 Washburn Switch Road. WGHP
Nine injured in “targeted” Greensboro shooting Guilford County Nine people, including four teenagers, are recovering after a shooting inside a Greensboro business early Sunday morning, according to the Greensboro Police Department. The shooting happened shortly before 2 a.m. at the Royal Banquet Hall on West Gate City Boulevard. Police said the victims include one 15-year-old and three 17-year-olds. All nine victims are expected to recover. Two people are in custody in connection with the shooting, but police have not shared their roles. Before the shooting, officers responded to the same area following reports of underage drinking. Police said they did not find evidence of anyone drinking underage. Investigators also said a flyer advertising a party at the venue had circulated on social media. Police have not said what led to the shooting but believe it was targeted. The investigation remains active and ongoing, and officials are urging anyone with information to come forward. WXII
WNCT
Fulbright Scholarship awarded to ECU professor Pitt County An ECU faculty member has received a Fulbright U.S. Scholar award to support research on places of worship that serve as hubs for disaster recovery and resilience. Jason M. Pudlo, an assistant professor in the College of Arts and Sciences, will be a Fulbright U.S. Scholar to Canada during the 2026-27 academic year. Pudlo will travel to the University of Regina in Regina, Saskatchewan, to study how houses of worship and community networks take part in disaster relief efforts. WCTI
Couple charged in area church air conditioning thefts Craven County A Carteret County couple is facing multiple charges related to the theft of air conditioning units from several churches in Craven County. According to the Craven County Sheriff’s Office, there were multiple reports of stolen air conditioning units from churches in the Harlowe community in mid-July. William Harper, 43, and Gretchen Harper, 44, were arrested last week and charged in both Craven and Jones counties with multiple offenses, including three felony counts of larceny and three felony counts of obtaining property by false pretense in Craven County. In cooperation with the Jones County Sheriff’s Office, the pair was charged in Jones County with additional felony counts, including injury to property to obtain nonferrous metals, possession of stolen property, four felony counts of larceny, and first-degree trespassing. The couple is being held in the Carteret County Detention Center. NSJ
RALEIGH — The N.C. Department of State Treasurer announced MaryAnne Fitzpatrick as the next deputy treasurer of the state’s Unclaimed Property Division last week. She has served the state for 12 years and has been the assistant deputy treasurer since 2022. “MaryAnne has long been a leader in our department, and I am pleased to now have her join my senior team,” said state Treasurer Brad Briner in a press release. “She has been instrumental in our efforts to modernize the Unclaimed Property Division and led the charge to integrate AI into our efforts to get property back to its right owners.” Fitzpatrick worked in the financial services and insurance industries before she worked for the state’s Unclaimed Property Division. She will assume the role when longtime Deputy Treasurer Allen Martin retires Sept. 1. Martin served in that role with the state for more than 35 years. “The state of North Carolina owes Allen a debt of gratitude for his decades of service,” said Briner. “We will miss his passion for unclaimed property and his advocacy for high standards and oversight for all of the state’s escheat funds. “His leadership led to the Unclaimed Property Division showing
COURTESY STATE TREASURER’S OFFICE
MaryAnne Fitzpatrick year-over-year growth in 2025-26 for receipts, number of claims paid and total amount of claims paid. Put simply — Allen’s efforts put more money back into the pockets of hard-working North Carolinians.” Escheat funds are abandoned or unclaimed financial assets held by the state for safekeeping until they are claimed by a rightful owner. Owners can search for and claim their money through the NCCash program, designed to make it easier for unclaimed property owners to receive money. The Unclaimed Property Division maintains property for safekeeping. Unclaimed property includes bank accounts, wages, utility deposits, insurance policy proceeds, stocks, bonds and contents of safe deposit boxes.
No veto overrides as legislature begins adjournments cycle Budget corrections and election law changes bills are still pending By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — Last week’s legislative session saw very little activity beyond additional refinements to a bill making budget corrections and revisions to a bill making election law changes proposed by the Senate. The House still must concur with the Senate’s changes before the measures can be sent to Gov. Josh Stein. The legislature returned to Raleigh on Monday. The Senate also finalized its proposed appointments list and adjournment resolution. The House’s resolution hasn’t been updated and is still in the House
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Rules Committee. The resolutions essentially lay out a calendar for when lawmakers will reconvene for a brief time each month for the rest of 2026. No veto overrides were held on Senate Bill 50 (Freedom to Carry) and House Bill 437 (Drug-Free Zones/Unauthorized Public Camping), and there has been no indication from General Assembly leaders when those votes might take place. Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden) told reporters after session last Wednesday that while lawmakers will return for brief sessions through the rest of the year, there are currently no votes planned for his chamber. The current calendar from the House speaker’s office shows no upcoming votes, and his office has yet to respond to a request for comment.
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
NATION & WORLD
Tillis strikes deal, will back Blanche as AG The North Carolina senator was one of two holdouts
“This order establishes, beyond any doubt, that there is no Fund.”
By Mary Clare Jalonick and Alanna Durkin Richer The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Two Republican senators who threatened to block acting Attorney General Todd Blanche’s confirmation to lead the Justice Department said Monday that they will support his nomination, ending an impasse over plans to create a fund to compensate allies of President Donald Trump. The endorsement from Sens. John Cornyn (R-Texas) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) paved the way for the Senate Judiciary Committee to advance Blanche’s nomination after the Justice Department and lawmakers reached a deal to formally rescind the $1.8 billion “Anti-Weaponization Fund” proposed to settle Trump’s lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service. Cornyn and Tillis had refused to back Blanche’s bid for the permanent post without official confirmation killing the fund meant to compensate people who believe they were unfairly prosecuted by the Justice Department. Blanche’s written order, issued late Sunday, came after days of negotiations between the Justice De-
Todd Blanche
MARK SCHIEFELBEIN / AP PHOTO
Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) arrives for a hearing of the Senate Finance Committee on July 30 in Washington, D.C. partment and the Republican senators who are leaving Capitol Hill when their terms end in January. “We want to express our gratitude to Mr. Blanche and his staff for working with us on this, and we look forward to voting to advance his nomination out of the Senate Judiciary Committee soon,” Cornyn and Tillis said in a statement. Blanche has repeatedly said that the Justice Department was scrapping plans for the fund, which sparked bipartisan outcry over the possibility that violent rioters who attacked police at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, could be consid-
ered for payments. But skeptical lawmakers said they were concerned that it could be revived without a commitment in writing, especially because Trump has continued to defend the idea. In his order posted on social media late Sunday, Blanche wrote that the department was confirming “beyond any doubt, that there is no Fund.” Since the settlement of the president’s lawsuit against the IRS was announced, “No Members were appointed; no funds were transferred; no process for receiving claims was established; no claims were paid,” the order said. “This order estab-
lishes, beyond any doubt, that there is no Fund.” Cornyn and Tillis had also pressed the Justice Department to limit the scope of a separate piece of the settlement that provided broad immunity for Trump and members of his family from tax audits. Under the deal, the Justice Department clarified in writing that the tax audit immunity agreement “applies by its terms only retroactively” to claims open at the time of the settlement and does not protect the president from examination of future tax filings. It also makes clear that only the parties that brought the lawsuit — Trump, two of his sons and the Trump Organization — are covered by the tax agreement. Cornyn and Tillis said in their statement that they were “pleased” with the concessions made by Blanche. “From the outset, we were clear that we needed a written document addressing our concerns on the IRS audit agreement and the anti-weaponization fund that included constraining the scope of audit protection by limiting it to the
parties of the Settlement Agreement and legally ending the anti-weaponization fund,” they wrote. Democrats, however, noted that the order rescinding the fund doesn’t stop the Trump administration from compensating Jan. 6 rioters through a previously established process that allows people to file claims for damages if they believed they were wronged by the government. Blanche’s nomination was thrown into doubt last week after the Judiciary Committee postponed a vote that had been scheduled for last Thursday morning as Tillis and Cornyn said they needed more from the administration before they could provide the necessary votes. After that vote was delayed, Trump said in a social media post that he might pull Blanche’s nomination and resubmit it after Cornyn and Tillis leave office next year. On Saturday, the president threatened to push forward with the fund if the two Republicans blocked Blanche’s nomination. On Sunday evening, Trump said that people who had faced charges from the Jan. 6 attack on the Capitol and could have benefited from the fund had “their lives destroyed.” “This would be a reimbursement for the pain that they suffered,” Trump said. “A lot of people like it.”
Hundreds of migrant children stranded in Spain’s Ceuta Most of the 60,000 who crossed into the Spanish territory have returned to Morocco By Bernat Armangue and Joseph Wilson The Associated Press CEUTA, Spain — The teenage girl made it through the waves to Spanish territory. Her little brother did not, drowning in the Mediterranean, while their mother disappeared in the chaos when tens of thousands of people surged through the breakwater, trying to leave Morocco behind. The tragic story of a 17-year-old from Tangier is representative of the plight of many of the more than 800 minors who, four days after the collective push by migrants into Ceuta, face a scary present and an uncertain future. She told an Associated Press photojournalist how she and her family joined the massive crowd that tried to swim around a bor-
der fence to reach the Spanish territory last Thursday. Like many, she said they did so seeking better opportunities. The AP is withholding her identity because she is a minor in a vulnerable situation. She described how she saw Spanish police pull the body of her 8-year-old brother from the water. She made it to the shore but became separated from her mother and had spent the last four days on her own. She said some locals gave her food and some clothing, with one woman taking her into her home so she could bathe. She then went to a center for youths run by the government for some help but found it was full. “I saw people stepping on the dead,” she said through a translator since she doesn’t speak Spanish. “Now we are children begging on the street.” She is one of some 860 minors who remained in Ceuta on Monday after crossing over, according to local officials. AP journalists saw other minors asking for food.
Those minors now make up a large part of the 3,000 to 5,000 migrants who have avoided expulsion from Ceuta of the original 60,000 who came across. Spanish authorities confirmed 72 people died, mostly in the water, during the crossing. Morocco reported 11 deaths not included in the Spanish total, the Spanish interior ministry said. Spanish law says that adult migrants can apply for asylum. If rejected, they will face expulsion procedures. The bar is normally very high for Moroccans to be granted humanitarian protection. Migrant minors who are unaccompanied by adults, however, are supposed to be granted protection and taken care of by Spanish authorities. An AP journalist witnessed Spanish soldiers escorting an unaccompanied Moroccan boy who was crying and begging not to be sent back to Morocco. A few meters before reaching the border — and due to pressure from local residents who insisted he was a minor, as well as the
BERNAT ARMANGUE / AP PHOTO
A 12-year-old unaccompanied minor who crossed into Spain is escorted by a Spanish soldier to the Spain-Morocco border as the child begs not to be sent back to Morocco on Monday. presence of the media — a lieutenant colonel in the Spanish Army stopped the repatriation and transferred the boy to the Spanish Civil Guard. Most of the Moroccan adults have either voluntarily gone home or been pushed back by Spanish police. Among those who remain in Ceuta are significant numbers of people from other countries, including Sudanese fleeing their war-torn country, Palestinians from Gaza
MAILERS from page A1 ings from Ready to Register (RTR) caused confusion across North Carolina, with the NCSBE issuing a statement and directing citizens to official channels for registering to vote. NSJ located and contacted legal representation for RTR — a Washington, D.C., area attorney named Tom Antonucci. NSJ emailed Antonucci about more deceased people receiving mailers. NSJ asked questions such as how RTR obtained lists containing deceased individuals, how many mailings went out and the continued use of outdated registration forms. NSJ additionally asked who funds RTR and who runs the website. Antonucci did not respond but apparently forwarded our email to Chris Pack, who identified himself as a spokesperson for RTR. Pack works for the
“We do not publicly disclose our donors.” Chris Pack, Ready to Register spokesperson
Breakwall Group, a public relations firm. Pack didn’t fully answer most of NSJ’s questions but offered a lengthy statement in an email saying RTR relies “on consumer data to identify unregistered voters and encourage them to register.” He also wrote that RTR was taking “additional, voluntary steps” to im-
prove its mailing lists, “including processing them through the National Change of Address database” and using U.S. Postal Service software to eliminate names that shouldn’t be included. Pack also wrote RTR “proactively work(s)” with election officials to make sure the correct forms are used, “particu-
larly in states like North Carolina, where the form was recently updated.” He said the outdated registration forms have “been corrected” and said a printing service told them the correct form would go out. When asked who funds RTR, Pack stated, “Ready to Register is a non-political 501(c)(4) social welfare organization, and we do not publicly disclose our donors.” In the same vein on RTR’s funding, Pack offered that Elon Musk was not involved in the group’s funding. NSJ had not mentioned or asked about Musk. Pack’s offered claim seems to
and Afghans, as well as people from several African nations. The city’s migrant center, with a capacity for 600 people, is completely full. Food is scarce among the migrants, according to reporting by AP journalists. “The strategy is that hunger, thirst and exhaustion forces these people to finally decide to voluntarily return to Morocco,” said local migration activist Ramsés Mohamed Azumik of Asociación Elín.
stem from The Washington Post, which linked Musk’s 2024 voter registration efforts under America PAC to old code on RTR’s website in a July 7 article. Unlike RTR, anonymously registered in Delaware by Cogency Global, America PAC is registered with the Federal Election Commission with its headquarters in Austin, Texas. America PAC’s filings begin in the 2023-24 cycle. The domain readytoregister. org far predates America PAC’s creation, as it was registered anonymously on April 28, 2020, through GoDaddy.com. Captures of RTR’s website on the Wayback Machine show a consistent landing page over the years. Captures from October 2020 and 2021 show text reading, “Paid for by America First Policies. Not authorized by any candidate or candidate’s committee.” That text disappeared in 2022.
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
features Werewolves, wisecracks collide in S.M. Chase’s ‘Midnight Miami’ The novel is a supernatural mystery in the neon-lit chaos of 1981 South Florida
“World’s strange. Most of the time it’s smoke, mirrors, and narcotics. Not always.”
By Dan Reeves North State Journal THERE IS NO shortage of paranormal detective fiction, but few novels open with a recently released convict wearing freshly painted white loafers as he is transformed into a werewolf inside a South Beach nightclub. That opening establishes the tone of “Midnight Miami,” the first book in S.M. Chase’s Grits & Gravy mystery series. Set during the summer of 1981, the novel combines gruesome horror, organized crime, buddy comedy and enough period references to fill several nights of network television. At the center are Francis “Grits” McCoy, a disgraced former NASCAR driver, and Ernest “Gravy” Watkins, a retired professional football star. They own the Stone Detective Agency in downtown Miami, investigating cases police officers would rather dismiss as impossible. Grits is a blond, blue-eyed daredevil who drives a mustard-yellow Dodge Charger and believes he can outrun or outfight anything. Gravy is a centuries-old warrior, traveling by motorcycle or roller skates and almost never wearing a shirt. Together, they are Miami’s answer to the Hardy Boys — if the Hardy Boys had killed Dracula, inherited his fortune and developed an unhealthy attachment to Burger King and “The Love Boat.” The mystery begins after a young woman’s mutilated body
Ernest “Gravy” Watkins
VIA S.M. CHASE PUBLISHING
“Midnight Miami” is the first installment in author S.M. Chase’s Grits & Gravy mystery series. is discovered behind a restaurant. Four similar killings have occurred, each involving a victim found with a matchbook from Midnight Miami, the city’s newest and most exclusive nightclub.
Miami homicide Detective Rafael Pérez reluctantly brings in Grits and Gravy after accepting that the wounds may not have been made by anything human. Their investigation leads to Victor Karanovo, a
suspected Bulgarian arms dealer, and his daughter, Nina. The Karanovos can transform people into werewolves without a bite or full moon. Using blood, drugs and artificial moonlight, they plan to build a new clan on one of Miami’s busiest dance floors. Also involved are traffickers, a Mafia capo, an FBI agent and a leprechaun who believes Grits stole his gold. Chase’s greatest strength is the relationship between Grits and Gravy. Their dialogue suggests a friendship that existed long before the first chapter. Asked whether they really chase ghosts, Gravy offers a fitting summary: “World’s strange. Most of the time it’s smoke, mirrors, and narcotics. Not always.” The repeated jokes about “The Love Boat,” Burger King, Duke’s Mayonnaise and Gravy’s refusal to wear a shirt give the book its identity. Some are repeated beyond their natural life, but the characters are likable enough to carry most of them. Eleanor Stone gives the story the balance its heroes need. The daughter of the agency’s founder, she initially remains only to help complete its transition before beginning a new life. As the case develops, however, she becomes the novel’s procedural and emotional center. While Grits and Gravy charge at danger, Eleanor asks useful questions, follows records and recognizes traps. Her gradual acceptance of the supernat-
ural is one of the book’s most convincing developments. By the final act, she is making decisions neither man can make. Chase also makes productive use of the setting. This is not a generic city with Miami landmarks added afterward. The novel is steeped in the South Florida of 1981: the aftermath of the Mariel boatlift, the cocaine trade, racial tensions, flamboyant nightclubs and a city changing faster than law enforcement can follow. At times, however, the period references become distracting. Every song, television program, restaurant and article of clothing is identified by name. The detail usually strengthens the setting, but occasionally the research calls attention to itself. The crowded supporting cast creates a similar problem. Chase fills the book with colorful characters, many of whom appear ready to carry their own stories. Flashbacks explain Gravy’s long life and mission, but they also slow the investigation as it gains momentum. The humor will be another dividing line. “Midnight Miami” relies heavily on sexual jokes, racial insults and deliberately offensive characters. Much of it reflects the setting and personalities, but some readers will find the volume exhausting. The comedy works best when it grows from Grits and Gravy’s friendship. “Midnight Miami” is loud, violent, knowingly ridiculous and often very funny. It moves like the muscle cars and motorcycles its heroes drive, sometimes taking a corner too quickly but rarely losing momentum. Most importantly, Chase has created two memorable central characters whose friendship gives the chaos a purpose. By the time the nightclub reaches its inevitable reckoning, the mystery matters less than whether Grits, Gravy and Eleanor will remain together. The novel leaves several supernatural threats unresolved, and Chase plans another adventure. Fortunately, the strange and unruly world appears large enough to support one.
‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ spins familiar web Strong performances cannot overcome MCU retreads
Tom Holland stars as Peter Parker in “SpiderMan: Brand New Day.”
By Bob Garver The Sun WHEN WE LAST left Peter Parker, aka Spider-Man (Tom Holland), back in 2021, he had to submit to a spell from Doctor Strange that would make the world forget he ever existed. His Aunt May (Marisa Tomei) had died, so he had no family left, but he had to watch his friends Ned (Jacob Batalon) and MJ (Zendaya) go off to college without him, blissfully unaware of what they meant to him. As we rejoin Peter in “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” he’s mostly turned himself over to superhero work full time. There are plenty of dangers around New York City, from minor thugs to supervillains like Scorpion (Michael Mando) to people who just need rescuing. Peter is always happy to swing in and save the day as Spider-Man, but the years of anonymity are taking their toll on the human side of him. Peter has some help. He coordinates with Detective Jean DeWolff (Liza Colón-Zayas), a liaison to the NYPD. A supposedly benevolent organization called Damage Control, led by Bill Metzger (Tramell Tillman), deals in superhero affairs. Fellow vigilante Frank “The Punisher” Castle (Jon Bernthal) keeps an eye on things, though Peter disagrees with his violent tactics. If he gets really desperate, he can call upon Yelena “Black Widow” Belova, the leader of the New Avengers. Even Bruce “The Incredible Hulk” Banner (Mark Ruffalo) is still
SONY PICTURES VIA AP
in play, wearing a device that prevents him from Hulking up, though it can be disabled. But these people are “allies” at best; Peter misses having friends. Eventually, a threat presents itself that stumps Peter, his allies and even his enemies. Somebody is possessing the bodies of whomever they please — often average citizens, though it can be a familiar face if specific deception is required — and wreaking havoc throughout the city. Their ultimate target seems to be Damage Control, which itself may not be on the up-and-up, as if Spider-Man battling the company’s ninja security team in all the film’s advertising wasn’t enough of a giveaway. The person behind the possessions is a shadowy
figure, and it’s little secret that Sadie Sink of “Stranger Things” has been cast in a shadowy role. The real question is who this character is beyond someone played by Sadie Sink. Peter tries to keep from becoming possessed himself, but his biology betrays him, and soon the villain learns that he’s still pining after MJ. He tries saving her impersonally as Spider-Man, but it soon becomes apparent that Peter Parker can’t stay out of her life forever. And this leads to some good conversations about what these characters are, what they’ve been and what they can and can’t be going forward. It’s some of the best acting I’ve seen from the MCU in a long time. Also, Bernthal, with his jaded attitude, is
everything you could want in a perfectly cast Punisher. And yet, I’m not recommending “Spider-Man: Brand New Day.” It’s an apologetic sort of nonrecommendation, as the movie does a lot right, especially with its three (!) carryovers from “The Odyssey.” But for every scene where the movie admirably lets the actors and dialogue breathe, there are too many more that are just dull MCU retreads: how Damage Control is just the latest corrupt human organization to think that it can get away with crimes against superpowered individuals; how the villain is temporarily stopped the way most MCU villains are stopped in this era; how characters like (the new) Black Widow and the Hulk are
wedged into the film to remind fans that they’re still a part of this franchise despite the story not needing them; or, perhaps worst of all, how the film seems preoccupied with setting up more MCU installments down the road than making this installment particularly memorable. Compared with the satisfaction I got from 2021’s “Spider-Man: No Way Home,” this movie ... I won’t say “doesn’t have legs,” but is maybe a few legs short of an arachnid. Grade: C “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” is rated PG-13 for sequences of action/violence and some language. Its running time is 145 minutes.
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‘Spider-Man: Brand New Day’ nets second best North American opening with $355M “The Odyssey” continues to draw large audiences By Lindsey Bahr The Associated Press “SPIDER-MAN: Brand New Day” made box office history in its first weekend in theaters. The Sony-released superhero movie became the second-biggest North American opening ever with an astonishing $355 million in ticket sales, according to studio estimates Sunday. It was just a few million shy of “Avengers: Endgame,” which debuted to $357 million in 2019. The film also made $572 million from more than 73,500 screens internationally, with China contributing $121 million alone, adding up to a $927 million worldwide debut that is second only to “Endgame” ($1.2 billion). Tom Holland’s run as the comic book webslinger has been a mighty one. “No Way Home,” his third standalone Spider-Man movie, made more than $1.9 billion worldwide to become the eighth-highest-earning movie of all time, not accounting for inflation. It was also the first movie since the beginning of the pandemic to cross the $1 billion mark. But the triumph of “Brand New Day” also comes on the heels of another major movie featuring Holland and Zendaya: Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” which slid to second place in its third weekend in theaters with $51 million. Their combined might helped propel the biggest weekend of all time for North American movie theaters with an estimated $430 million in total ticket sales, according to Rentrak. “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” started strong, with a record $168 million opening day from 4,487 theaters in the U.S. and Canada, besting “Avengers: Endgame’s” $157 million Friday. The studio predicted it would lead to a $325 million opening weekend, which would still have beaten the second-place record. It takes the place of “Spider-Man:
SONY PICTURES VIA AP
Zendaya and Tom Holland star in “Spider-Man: Brand New Day.” No Way Home,” which opened to $260 million in December 2021. In the realm of best opening weekends in North America, they’re followed by “Avengers: Infinity War” ($257 million in 2018) and “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” ($247 million in 2015). Expectations were always high for “Brand New Day,” which was directed by Destin Daniel Cretton and cost a reported $225 million to produce, not including marketing expenses. But there were worries it wouldn’t attract the same level of mass audience enthusiasm as its predecessor, which integrated past Peter Parker actors Tobey Maguire and Andrew Garfield into the mix. In reality, interest was higher than ever. “Brand New Day” also received strong reviews from critics and audiences. It currently has a 90% on Rotten Tomatoes; audiences gave it an “A” CinemaScore and a five-star rating on PostTrak. Ticket buyers were predominantly male (about 61%) and many were on the younger side, with slightly more than half the audience under the age of 25, ac-
“This is perhaps the most important summer moviegoing season in the history of the business.” Paul Dergarabedian, Rentrak cording to PostTrak exit polls. The biggest group was between the ages of 18 and 24, which made up 36% of the audience; 27% were between the ages of 25 and 34. The box office analytics company EntTelligence estimates that about 24.1 million people attended “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” last weekend. It’s also the biggest ever opening for Sony Pictures. Tom Rothman, the chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Motion Picture Group, praised “the incomparable Tom Holland” in a statement. Rothman famously pushed back the production of the movie to allow Holland to act in “The Odyssey” as well. Cries about the death of the superhero movie have been
looming since “Endgame” with more than a few high-profile flops in the years since, including several from the once-impenetrable Marvel Studios. Still, when they work, they really work, most notably with “No Way Home” and “Deadpool & Wolverine,” which made more than $1.3 billion. “This debut reflects the enduring power of Marvel’s characters, and the connection they continue to have with fans around the world — and, as audiences saw, it sets up exciting things to come,” Marvel Studios president and “Spider-Man” producer Kevin Feige said in a statement. Producer Amy Pascal added that it “reinforces that moviegoers are hungry for stories that are both spectacular and deeply human.” This year has also seen a resurgence of moviegoing from younger audiences, who have made hits out of movies like “Obsession,” “Backrooms” and “The Drama,” which also starred Zendaya. They’re also helping blockbusters soar, and in a business
‘Super Troopers’ at 25: Quarter-century of mustaches, maple syrup — and new film The third installment of the cult comedy comes out Friday By Jake Coyle The Associated Press NEW YORK — A quarter of a century is a long time for mustache rides and syrup binges, but “Super Troopers” has gotten a lot of mileage out of the simple joys of friends goofing around. The comedy troupe Broken Lizard, a group of college buddies who began performing together at Colgate University, broke through with 2001’s “Super Troopers.” Made for less than $3 million, the movie cast Jay Chandrasekhar (who directed), Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme, Paul Soter and Erik Stolhanske as a group of juvenile Vermont state troopers. A then-Emmy-less Brian Cox played their cantankerous chief. The movie became an unlikely cult hit, making many times over what it made in theaters ($23 million) on VHS and DVD. Roger Ebert begrudgingly called it “the kind of movie that makes you want to like it.” Not all movies look like they were fun to make, but “Super Troopers” did. For Broken Lizard, the difference between the movie and the blooper reel is almost nonexistent. It’s like they’re living out the dream of every group of funny college pals. “We talk about that being almost like the special sauce in the movies. You can’t fake 30 years of friendship. Even the best actors can’t do it,” Soter said before his fellow members made
PATRICK HARBRON / SEARCHLIGHT PICTURES VIA AP
From left, Nat Faxon, Kevin Heffernan, Jay Chandrasekhar, Steve Lemme, Paul Soter, Andrew Dismukes and Erik Stolhanske star in “Super Troopers 3.”
“We’re trying to bring back good old-fashioned R-rated American theatrical comedy. That’s sort of the mission here.” Jay Chandrasekhar him question that declaration. “OK, maybe Al Pacino could fake it.” Broken Lizard has kept at it, making half a dozen other movies. In the intervening years, big-screen comedy has grown all but dead, so it hasn’t always been easy. They resorted to crowdfunding to help finance 2018’s “Super Troopers 2.” But with “Super Troopers 3,” which Searchlight Pic-
tures will release Friday, they’re back again in aviator sunglasses, broad-brimmed hats and, of course, mustaches. Alongside big-budget blockbusters like “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” and “The Odyssey,” “Super Troopers 3” will try to hold on to its narrow stretch of highway. “It’s kind of a show-business miracle to be able to make eight or nine movies with your friends from college,” said Chandrasekhar. “We certainly never thought it could get this far.” Comedy franchise built on speeding tickets “Super Troopers” wasn’t the first movie Broken Lizard made. In 1996, they released “Puddle Cruiser,” a comedy shot entirely on Colgate’s campus. It
didn’t get distribution, so their only real hope for “Super Troopers” was that it play somewhere, anywhere. About that time, the quintet was performing in New York and touring college campuses. Road trips inspired the movie. “We were getting pulled over a lot. You talk a lot of smacks when you see the cops,” Lemme said. “But the second they pull up to the car, you’re immediately in butt-kissing mode. We always wondered what the cops were thinking, if they knew how much power they had over us and how much they could screw with us.” One of the movie’s most famous scenes featured two patrolmen (Lemme and Soter) pulling over a then-little-known Jim Gaffigan. During the course of giving him a ticket, they play a game where one has to say “meow” 10 times in place of “now.” Over the years, they’ve heard countless stories of everyone from police officers to pilots doing the same. “My friend is a pilot for United Airlines, and he said the aviation radio communication system is just drowning in meows,” Chandrasekhar said. Maple syrup and mustaches The guys of Broken Lizard are all now in their late 50s, but little of their dynamic has changed. In character, they playfully rag on each other — especially Heffernan’s loud-mouthed Rodney Farva — but with an affection immediately recognizable to a certain kind of acerbic friend group. That was also true during
that is partly propelled by momentum, “Spider-Man” had the benefit of coming after “The Odyssey,” which fell only 43% in its third weekend. “The Odyssey” has now earned $395.5 million domestically, bringing its global total to $911.4 million. The film will soon open in South Korea (Aug. 5), China (Aug. 14) and Japan (Sept. 11). Its studio, Universal, also became the first this year to surpass $4 billion globally thanks in part to “Michael,” which it distributed internationally, and “The Super Mario Galaxy Movie.” Paul Dergarabedian, the head of marketplace trends for Rentrak, said the “Spider-Man” effect could help the summer movie season surpass the $4 billion mark for the first time since the Barbenheimer summer of 2023 and the third-ever billion-dollar August. “This is perhaps the most important summer moviegoing season in the history of the business,” Dergarabedian said. August, he added, “could set up a home stretch of the box office year like no other and one that could push us over that $10 billion mark.” Top 10 movies by domestic box office This list factors in the estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Rentrak. 1. “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” $355 million 2. “The Odyssey,” $51 million 3. “Toy Story 5,” $6.3 million 4. “Minions & Monsters,” $5.8 million 5. “Moana,” $5.3 million 6. “Hadestown: The Musical,” $2 million 7. “The Invite,” $1.2 million 8. “I Want Your Sex,” $600,000 9. “Young Washington,” $477,727 10. “Obsession,” $470,000
a recent interview over Zoom. Broken Lizard was in the middle of a cross-country promotional tour. (One stop included interrupting a Limp Bizkit concert to register a noise complaint.) “We have families and our own lives and stuff, and when we come together, it’s like summer camp,” Heffernan said. Twenty-five years of “Super Troopers” has meant a lot of months in mustaches. They usually shave them right away but have to grow them back for marketing the release. “The studio,” said Heffernan, “thinks the mustaches are the stars of the movie.” Cult hit turns into trilogy In “Super Troopers 3,” times have also changed. The station gets its first electric police car, a development that figures surprisingly centrally to the plot. Capt. John O’Hagen (Cox) is struggling with retirement. Cox is returning to “Super Troopers” — one of his most randomly delightful screen credits — after his acclaimed run on HBO’s “Succession.” “He brings gravitas, and what’s great about that is it makes us more absurd and sillier because we’ve got a real actor in the room,” said Soter. “We feel like idiots because we can barely hit our marks, and he’s super professional. It makes us end up being like goofy kids.” It remains endlessly surprising to the Broken Lizard gang that “Super Troopers” has had the kind of life it has. “George Lucas didn’t conceive of making a trilogy when he made ‘Star Wars,’ but it did very well, as did ‘Super Troopers,’” Lemme said. “So here we are making a trilogy.” “We’re trying to bring back good old-fashioned R-rated American theatrical comedy. That’s sort of the mission here,” Chandrasekhar said.
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
CUMBERLAND NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001120-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Louise Scott McNeill, 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 30th day of October 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 30th day of July 2026. Eric M. Ditmore, Administrator of the Louise Scott McNeill Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 07/30, 08/06, 08/13, 08/20
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF VALERIE A BANKS CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 25E000305-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Valerie A. Banks of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to the Administrator, Davis W. Puryear, 4317 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28311 on or before the 7th day of November, 2026 (which date is three months after the day of the first 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 28th day of July, 2026. Davis W. Puryear Administrator of the Estate of Valerie A. Banks Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: August 6, August 13, August 20, and August 27, 2026.
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ESTATE OF: DARRYL EUGENE BESSANT FILE NO. 26E001232-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Darryl Eugene Bessant, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before November 06, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 6th day of August, 2026. Dwaine Edmond Bessant, Executor / Administrator 7103 Tilton Ct Fayetteville, NC 28314 Dates of Publication: 08/06/26, 08/13/26, 08/20/26, 08/27/26
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001111-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Annette C. Billie, 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 16th day of October 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 16th day of July 2026. Bennie Billie, III, Administrator of the Annette C. Billie Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone:(910) 672-4600 Publish: 07/16, 07/23, 07/30, 08/06
NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Cumberland County, North Carolina RE: THE ESTATE OF JOHN BLOUNT – 26E-000353-250 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of John Blount, deceased, Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 30th day of October, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 30th day of July, 2026. Laura Davis, Administrator DSR Legal, PLLC PO Box 51596 Durham, NC 27717
CABARRUS 26SP000087-120 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 Thomas J. Meyers a/k/a Thomas Meyers to Investors Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), which was dated September 29, 2022 and recorded on September 29, 2022 in Book 16223 at Page 65, 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 offer 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 August 18, 2026 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
ADMINISTRATOR’S NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE
ESTATE OF NELSON EDDY BOYES, JR. CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 26E000832-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Nelson Eddy Boyes, Jr., of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to the Executor, Khris Yong Na Taylor, 4331 Mill Branch Dr., Prosper, TX 75078 on or before the 24th day of October, 2026 (which date is three months after the day of the first 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 Executor named above. This the 17th day of July, 2026. Khris Yong Na Taylor Executor of the Estate of Nelson Eddy Boyes, Jr. Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: July 23, July 30, August 6 and August 13, 2026.
The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of John Ira Haynes, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 23rd day of October, 2026 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), 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. This 15th day of July, 2026. Andrea’ Haynes Administrator 1408 Valmead Ct. Fayetteville, NC 28312 Of the Estate of John Ira Haynes, Deceased
Estate of Jacquelin Blackman Smith a/k/a Jacqueline Blackman Smith a/k/a Jacquelin B. Smith a/k/a Jacqueline B. Smith a/k/a Agnes J. Smith Cumberland County Estate File No. 26E000794-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Jacquelin Blackman Smith a/k/a Jacqueline Blackman Smith a/k/a Jacquelin B. Smith a/k/a Jacqueline B. Smith a/k/a Agnes J. Smith, Deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to David Neal Smith, Executor of the Estate of Jacquelin Blackman Smith a/k/a Jacqueline Blackman Smith a/k/a Jacquelin B. Smith a/k/a Jacqueline B. Smith a/k/a Agnes J. Smith, at 4010 Bankshire Lane, Raleigh, NC 27603, on or before the 30th day of October, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of Jacquelin Blackman Smith a/k/a Jacqueline Blackman Smith a/k/a Jacquelin B. Smith a/k/a Jacqueline B. Smith a/k/a Agnes J. Smith are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above. This the 30th day of July, 2026. David Neal Smith, Executor of the Estate of Jacquelin Blackman Smith a/k/a Jacqueline Blackman Smith a/k/a Jacquelin B. Smith a/k/a Jacqueline B. Smith a/k/a Agnes J. Smith Williford McCauley - Attorney for the Estate of Jacquelin Blackman Smith a/k/a Jacqueline Blackman Smith a/k/a Jacquelin B. Smith a/k/a Jacqueline B. Smith a/k/a Agnes J. Smith Mailing address: P. O. Box 53606 Fayetteville, NC 28305 Physical address: 235 Green Street Fayetteville, NC 28301
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA In the General Court of Justice County of Cumberland Superior Court Division Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice Estate File # 26E000413-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator CTA, of the Estate of William Courtney Norman, deceased, late of the County of Cumberland, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 16th day of October 2026, 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 13th day of July 2026 David Aaron Norman Administrator/Executor Address: 530 Shelton Drive City, State, Zip: Aberdeen, NC 28315 Of the Estate of William Courtney Norman, Deceased
Notice to Creditors State of North Carolina County of Cumberland The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Elsie Olean Bedsole Brewington, deceased, late of Cumberland county, hereby notifies all persons,firms, and corporations having claims against said Estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 23th day of October 2026, (which date is one month after the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make payment to the undersigned. This 23th day of July 2026 Poshia Bell Administrator/Executor 902 Axis Circle Hope Mills, NC 28348
NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Mary A Cherry ( Deceased ) of Cumberland County , this is to notify all persons having claims against sais estate to present them to undersigned on or before the 30th day of Oct, 2026,( which date is three months after the day of the first publication of notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery . All persons indebted to the estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This Day of 30th day of July ,2026. Clenton A Cochran the Administrator of the Estate of Mary A Cherry Estate file # 26E821 1061 Danbury Dr Fayetteville NC 28301
NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA In The General Court of Justice County of Cumberland Superior Court Division Estate File # 26E001086-250 Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice The undersigned, having Qualifies as Executor of the Estate of Annie Marie Cogdell Cochran, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the16 day of October, 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 16 day of July, 2026 Janelle Cochran 1105 Whiskerlake Drive Fayetteville, NC 28312 Of the Estate of Annie Marie Cogdell Cochran, Deceased
NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Cumberland County, North Carolina RE: THE ESTATE OF JANIE CRUZ – 26E000712-250 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Janie Cruz, deceased, Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 6th day of November, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This is the 6th day of August, 2026. Dennis Wilson, Administrator DSR Legal, PLLC PO Box 51596 Durham, NC 27717
ADMINISTRATOR’S/EXECUTOR’S NOTICE The undersigned, having qualified as the Administrator of the Estate of Jennifer LaFern Haulcy, deceased, late of Cumberland County, herby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 16th day of October, 2026, (which is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 16th day of July, 2026. Ja’kendria Martin 3524 Coupure Way Fayetteville, NC 28312 Of the Estate of Jennifer LaFern Haulcy, Deceased
cash the following described property situated in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, to wit: Land situated in the Township of No. 4 in the County of Cabarrus in the State of NC. ALL THOSE CERTAIN LOTS OR PARCELS OF LAND MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS LYING AND BEING IN THE CITY OF KANNAPOLIS, NO. 4 TOWNSHIP, CABARRUS COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA AND BEING LOTS NOS. 23, 24, 25 AND 26 AND PART OF LOT NO. 27 IN BLOCK “2” OF EASTOVER PARK, AS SHOWN ON MAP RECORDED IN THE CABARRUS COUNTY REGISTRY IN MAP BOOK 8 AT PAGE 75, THE FOLLOWING DESCRIPTION BEING TAKEN FROM A PHYSICAL SURVEY OF THE SUBJECT PROPERTY DATED MAY 30, 1991 BY BILLY B. LONG, RLS: BEGINNING AT A STAKE IN THE WESTERN EDGE OF HAZEL AVENUE, THE NORTHEASTERN REAR CORNER OF LOT NO. 22 AND RUNS THENCE N. 67-44 W. 132.50 FEET TO A STAKE, REAR CORNER OF LOT NO. 17; THENCE N. 21-32 W. 46.10 FEET TO A STAKE, REAR CORNER OF LOT NO. 10; THENCE ALONG THE REAR OF LOTS NOS. 10, 9 AND 8, N. 6-28 E. 62.50 FEET TO A STAKE IN THE REAR OF LOT NO. 8; THENCE A LINE RUNNING THROUGH LOT NO. 27, S. 83-32 E. 150 FEET TO A STAKE IN THE WESTERN EDGE OF HAZEL AVENUE; THENCE ALONG THE
NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division County: Cumberland Estate File No. 26E000538-250 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Barbara J. Hill, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before October 23, 2026, which date is three months after the first publication of this notice, 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. This 17th day of July, 2026. Pamela Ray Executor 2405 Vestal Avenue Fayetteville, NC 28301 Executor of the Estate of Barbara Jean Hill, Deceased. Dates of Publication: July 23, 2026 July 30, 2026 August 6.2026 August 13, 2026
NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E001187-250 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Mary Ann Jensen, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Mary Ann Jensen to present them to the undersigned on or before the 30 day of October, 2026 (this date being 3 months from the first publication date of this notice) or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 27 day of July, 2026. Renee M. Burke 4020 Butler Nursery Rd. Fayetteville NC 28306 Administrator of the Estate of Mary Ann Jensen aka Mary Ann Acker Jensen aka Mary Acker Jensen
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001096-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Christopher Allon Ryan, 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 16th day of October 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 16th day of July 2026. Neva Chapman, Administrator of the Christopher Allon Ryan Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone:(910) 672-4600 Publish: 07/16, 07/23, 07/30, 08/06
NOTICE In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File #26E001070-250 State of North Carolina Cumberland County Administrator Notice The undersigned having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Linda Horrell Johnson, 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 16th day of October, 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the first 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 8th day of July, 2026. Christopher G. Johnson 105 Ohara Court Cary, NC 27513 Administrator of the Estate of Linda Horrell Johnson
WESTERN EDGE OF HAZEL AVENUE S. 6-28 W. 138.70 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 501 Hazel Ave Unit 23, Kannapolis, NC 28083. A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five 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 offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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,
NOTICE State of North Carolina In the General Court of Justice County of Cumberland Superior Court Division Estate File #26E001159-250 Notice To Creditors Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Arthur Richard Seaman, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, on July 20, 2026, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate to present them to: Arthur Robert Seaman, Administrator 3422 Broomsgrove Drive Fayetteville NC 28306 On or before October 30, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment. North Carolina law requires the claims deadline to be at least three months after the first publication date. This the 22nd of July, 2026. Arthur Robert Seaman Administrator of the Estate of Arthur Richard Seaman
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E000968-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Jancila Nicole Baldwin, 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 6th day of November 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 6th day of August 2026. Catriena Baldwin, Administrator for Jancila Nicole Baldwin Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 08/06, 08/13, 08/20, 08/27
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Ernest Stacy Grooms, Sr. a/k/a Ernest S. Grooms, Sr. a/k/a E. Stacy Grooms, Sr. a/k/a E. Stacy Grooms a/k/a Ernest Stacy Grooms Cumberland County Estate File No. 26E001101-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Ernest Stacy Grooms, Sr. a/k/a Ernest S. Grooms, Sr. a/k/a E. Stacy Grooms, Sr. a/k/a E. Stacy Grooms a/k/a Ernest Stacy Grooms, Deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Ernest Stacy Grooms, Jr., Executor of the Estate of Ernest Stacy Grooms, Sr. a/k/a Ernest S. Grooms, Sr. a/k/a E. Stacy Grooms, Sr. a/k/a E. Stacy Grooms a/k/a Ernest Stacy Grooms, at 5429 Labrador Drive, Hope Mills, NC 28348, on or before the 23rd day of October, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of Ernest Stacy Grooms, Sr. a/k/a Ernest S. Grooms, Sr. a/k/a E. Stacy Grooms, Sr. a/k/a E. Stacy Grooms a/k/a Ernest Stacy Grooms are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above. This the 23rd day of July, 2026. Ernest Stacy Grooms, Jr., Executor of the Estate of Ernest Stacy Grooms, Sr. a/k/a Ernest S. Grooms, Sr. a/k/a E. Stacy Grooms, Sr. a/k/a E. Stacy Grooms a/k/a Ernest Stacy Grooms Williford McCauley - Attorney for the Estate of Ernest Stacy Grooms, Sr. a/k/a Ernest S. Grooms, Sr. a/k/a E. Stacy Grooms, Sr. a/k/a E. Stacy Grooms a/k/a Ernest Stacy Grooms Mailing address: P. O. Box 53606 Fayetteville, NC 28305 Physical address: 235 Green Street Fayetteville, NC 28301
and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are All Lawful Heirs of Thomas J. Meyers. 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 effective 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 effective 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”.
Administrator’s/ Executors Notice The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Rossie E. Kirkley, deceased, late of Cumberland County hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 23rd day of October, 2026 (which date is 3 months after the date of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 17th day of July 2026. Administrator/Executor: Simon M Truitt Address: 2003 Rocky Stream Ct. Fayetteville, NC 2830623rd Of the Estate of Rossie E. Kirkley, Deceased
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF DEBORAH JONES WILDER CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 26E000615-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Deborah Jones Wilder, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to the Public Administrator, Davis W. Puryear on or before the 17th day of October, 2026 (which date is three months after the day of the first 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 7th day of July, 2026. Davis W. Puryear Public Administrator of the Estate of Deborah Jones Wilder Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: July 16, July 23, July 30 and August 6, 2026
NOTICE In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File # 20E001273-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Margie J. Keefe, 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 30th day of October, 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the first 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 23rd day of July, 2026. Beverly P. Harris, 171 Pisgah Hwy, Candler, NC 28715 Administrator of the Estate of Margie J. Keefe.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF JAMES MICHAEL RUFF CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 26E001063-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against James Michael Ruff of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to the Executor, Angela Ruff Forsyth, at 154 Berry Patch Ln, Pittsboro, NC 27312 on or before the 24th day of October, 2026 (which date is three months after the day of the first 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 16th day of July, 2026. Angela Ruff Forsyth Executor of the Estate of James Michael Ruff Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: July 23, July 30, August 6, and August 13, 2026
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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 26-03414-FC01
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
PEN & PAPER PURSUITS
sudoku
SOLUTIONS FROM LAST WEEK
Our editors debate MLB salary cap, B4
PHOTOS BY SCOTT KINSER / AP PHOTO
Liga MX All-Star Salomón Rondón (26) battles with MLS All-Star Maxime Crépeau (71) during the MLS All-Star Game in Charlotte.
the Thursday
MLS All-Stars outlast Liga MX in Charlotte
MLS
Son Heung-min scores twice in victory
SIDELINE REPORT
Lewandowski scores 2 goals in Fire home debut as Chicago beats Charlotte FC 2-1 Chicago Robert Lewandowski scored two goals, including the winner, in his home debut for the Fire, helping Chicago beat Charlotte FC 2-1. Pep Biel gave Charlotte (7-7-4) an early lead with a shot from the right side of the box on an assist from Idan Toklomati. Charlotte entered the match unbeaten in its last two games but dropped its third straight against the Fire.
NCAA ATHLETICS
Courts hand NCAA major loss on 5-year eligibility rule Denver A federal court dealt a chaos-inducing blow to the NCAA’s new eligibility rule when it ruled all high school class of ‘22 athletes who exhausted their fourth season of college eligibility this spring are eligible for a fifth season this year. The ruling opens the possibility an undrafted player in an NFL training camp could decide to try to head back to college for a fifth year this season.
MLB
New Red Sox infielder Mead to miss time with left wrist injury Curtis Mead will miss an undetermined amount of time with a left wrist injury suffered in his first game with the Boston Red Sox. The Red Sox acquired Mead in a trade with Washington. The former Durham Bull was hit by a pitch on the wrist in his second time up with Boston. X-rays were negative, but further tests showed an injury.
By Jesse Deal North State Journal CHARLOTTE — The first Major League Soccer All-Star Game held in the Queen City gave the home crowd a seven-goal thriller, an MLS victory and a milestone night for Charlotte FC fans. LAFC forward Son Heung-min scored twice in a three-minute span during the first half, helping the MLS All-Stars rally past the Liga MX All-Stars 4-3 on July 29 at Bank of America Stadium. The 30th edition of the league’s midsummer showcase placed Charlotte at the center of the North American soccer scene. Charlotte FC coach Dean Smith guided the MLS side,
MLS All-Star Son Heung-min shoots against Liga MX All-Star Carlos Acevedo during the recent MLS All-Star Game on July 29 in Charlotte. while defender Tim Ream and midfielders Pep Biel and Ashley Westwood became the first players in club history to appear in the All-Star Game.
Ream, voted into the First XI through balloting by fans, MLS players and media members, started for Smith. Biel and Westwood, both coach se-
lections, entered the game in the 35th minute. For Ream, the appearance completed a record-setting return. The U.S. men’s national team captain had not been selected since 2011, when he played for the New York Red Bulls before spending 13 seasons in England. His 15-year gap between selections is the longest in MLS All-Star history. Liga MX struck first in the ninth minute when Luis Gabriel Rey met Juan Brunetta’s free kick with a running header that beat goalkeeper Matt Freese. However, Son quickly changed the game. New England Revolution midfielder Carles Gil sent a pass over the defense to Son on the left side. The South Korean star controlled the ball and slipped a shot past goalkeeper Carlos Acevedo in the 20th minute. Three minutes later, Gil kept the ball from crossing the end line and sent it back toward goal, where Son finished for a 2-1 advantage. See MLS, page B3
PGA regular season wraps up in Greensboro The Wyndham Championship will finalize the 70-player field for the PGA’s playoffs By Shawn Krest North State Journal THE PGA regular season wraps up this week at Sedgefield Country Club in Greensboro with the Wyndham Championship. In its 87th year, the event is the seventh oldest on the tour and will have plenty of drama this week as the playoff field will be set. The top 70 golfers in the rankings qualify for the postseason, and every golfer ranked between 61 and 125, except No. 102 Kristoffer Ventura, will be in the field as they try to get on the right side of the bubble. Borrowing a page from March Madness bracketology, the “last five in” — ranked 66
70
Years since there has been a repeat winner at the event, which Cameron Young will try to accomplish this week through 70 in the FedEx Cup standings entering the Wyndham — are Ricky Castillo, Matti Schmid, Jordan Smith, Steven Fisk and rookie Jackson Koivun. The “first five out”, ranked 71 to 75, are Mac Meissner, Keegan Bradley, Andrew Putnam, Johnny Keefer and former world No. 1 Jason Day. Meissner finished second in last year’s Wyndham, a performance that would certainly vault him into the playoffs if he repeats it. Day is making his first start at the Wyndham since 2022.
CHUCK BURTON / AP PHOTO
Cameron Young chips to the green on his way to a win at last year’s Wyndham Championship in Greensboro. Last year, Chris Kirk moved into the playoff field, displacing Byeong Hun An with his performance in the Wyndham. In addition to Meissner, Bradley and Day, some recognizable names looking to crack the
top 70 include 2014 FedEx Cup winner Billy Horschel, currently No. 107. He has been a runner-up at the Wyndham and finished fourth in 2023. He’s See PGA, page B2
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
THURSDAY
8.6.26
TRENDING
Judah Harris: The 17-year-old from Kenly will compete for a world title at the 2026 International Judo Foundation Cadet World Championships in Guayaquil, Ecuador. Harris, a member of El Toro Judo Club, is competing in his second consecutive world championships. He also won a gold at the Cadet Pan American Championships in April. He’ll compete in the boys’ 90-plus kilogram weight class Aug. 20-23. Evelyn Ijeh: The North Carolina Courage forward scored three goals in a 5-0 victory over Orlando. Ijeh scored two firsthalf goals and another in minute 70 for her first career hat trick. Ijeh has seven goals and two assists in her last eight games. Lauren Thompson had her first career goal and Ashley Sanchez her team-leading 10th as the Courage snapped a three-game losing streak. Chris Brazzell: The Panthers wide receiver’s rookie season is over before it began. The third-round pick from Tennessee will undergo season-ending surgery on his left knee and be placed on injured reserve. Brazzell was carted off the field after getting injured during 7-on-7 drills. Initially expected to miss up to eight weeks following the diagnosis, he later opted for surgery.
PGA from page B1 been in the top 10 in Greensboro four of the last times he’s teed it up there. Brooks Koepka, a five-time major winner, is currently No. 86 and would need a high finish to move into the playoff field. Also worth watching is No. 89 Tony Finau, who has made the playoffs every year since joining the tour in 2014. He’ll need a strong week to keep the streak alive. There is also drama farther up the points list. The highest-ranked player in the field, Wake Forest alum Cameron Young, is looking to defend his Wyndham title after winning by six strokes last year. If he manages to repeat atop the leaderboard, he’ll be the first defending Wyndham champion to go back to back since the legendary Sam Snead, who did it in 1955-56, two of his eight career wins in the tournament, including his second set of back-to-back titles. Young is one of 13 players in the top 40 who will be playing, despite already hav-
Beyond the box score POTENT QUOTABLES
NFL
Asher Harvey, a 6-year-old from Mooresville, scored a touchdown during the Carolina Panthers’ Fan Fest practice. Harvey is receiving treatment for a congenital heart defect at Atrium Health Levine’s Children Hospital. Make-A-Wish and Greg Olsen’s HEARTest Yard Foundation supported him in his wish to be Panthers quarterback. He signed a contract and met the team before finding the end zone on his first snap on the Bank of America Stadium field.
MADDY GRASSY / LINKEDIN
“Now it’s like I can’t leave my house.” Charlotte FC defender Tim Ream on his level of fame after playing for Team USA in the World Cup.
THOMAS DELVES / CAROLINA PANTHERS
NFL
NCAA FOOTBALL
PAUL SANCYA / AP PHOTO
“I’m excited to be a Dodger.” Two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal on getting traded to the two-time World Series champions PRIME NUMBER
$94M Value of the five-year extension signed by San Jose Sharks superstar Macklin Celebrini, making him the highest-paid player in the NHL. Celebrini is entering the final season of his three-year, $2.925 million entry-level contract. The new deal, which starts in 2027-28, runs through 2031-32. The $18.8 million average annual value is the richest in NHL history.
ing a playoff spot wrapped up. Young is coming off an eighth-place finish in last week’s Rocket Classic in Detroit. He posted a course-record tying 61 in the second round and said afterward he thought he had a shot at a PGA Tour record 55 after getting birdies on seven of his first eight holes. He’ll look to remain hot in Greensboro as he enters at No. 3 in the FedEx Cup rankings. He’s also one of six former Wyndham champions in the field, joining Aaron Rai (2024), Lucas Glover (2023), Tom Kim (2022), J.T. Poston (2019), Brandt Snedeker (2018 and 2007) and Webb Simpson (2011). Young, Poston (Hickory and Western Carolina) and Simpson (Raleigh and Wake Forest University) also head the group of players with North Carolina connections who will be in Greensboro. Michael Brennan, Alex Fitzpatrick and Lorenzo Rodriguez will also be representing the Demon Deacons, while Raleigh’s Andrew Novak, States-
TONY GUTIERREZ / AP PHOTO
Tony Romo was placed on leave from his role as lead analyst on CBS’ NFL coverage “until further notice” following his arrest last week on suspicion of operating a vehicle while under the influence. JJ Watt will join Jim Nantz on CBS Sports’ lead NFL team during Romo’s absence.
AARON BEARD / AP PHOTO
Preseason league favorite Miami claimed nine spots on the ACC’s preseason all-conference team, including Duke transfer quarterback Darian Mensah as preseason player of the year. Duke tight end Jeremiah Hasley was the only player from an N.C. school on the first team.
NASCAR
JOHN RAOUX / AP PHOTO
ville’s Tom Hoge, Duke products Max Greyserman, Kevin Streelman and Alex Smalley, and former UNC golfers Ryan Gerard and Ben Griffin will all be teeing it up. Brennan is making his first Wyndham appearance, as is Rodriguez, a current Wake Forest sophomore who qualified Monday. Rodriguez shot 63 at Bermuda Run to finish first in qualifying. Fairmont-born William McGirt was also one of the four Monday qualifiers, along with Luke List and Keenan Huskey. Brennan entered the final round of last week’s Rocket Classic tied for the lead. Smalley is a member at Sedgefield who will be playing on his home course. In addition to Koepka (two U.S. Opens, three PGAs), Bradley (2011 PGA), Simpson (2012 U.S. Open), Day (2015 PGA), Rai (2026 PGA) and Glover (2009 U.S. Open), other major winners in the field include Jordan Spieth (U.S. Open, British Open, Masters), Justin Thomas (two PGAs), Brian Harman (2023 British Open) and Hideki Matsuyama (2021 Masters).
Seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson announced a strategic ownership group for Legacy Motor Club that includes IndyCar champions Scott Dixon and Dario Franchitti, MLB stars Bryce Harper and Chase Utley, Indianapolis 500 winner Tony Kanaan, U.S. Open champion Andy Roddick, surfing world champion Kelly Slater, three-time Grammy Award winner Darius Rucker and celebrity chef Guy Fieri.
CHUCK BURTON / AP PHOTO
Cameron Young reacts on the final hole of his Wyndham Championship win last year in Greensboro.
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
College football hot seat report There’s not much middle ground between ice cold and hot for N.C. schools By Shawn Krest North State Journal FOR THE FIRST time in five years, football coaches in North Carolina need no introduction. All seven FBS programs in the state return the same coach as they did last year. That may not seem like much of an accomplishment, but it hasn’t happened in North Carolina since 2021. It’s just the ninth time it’s happened since the turn of the century and just the 30th time in more than 120 years of football that at least one of the schools wasn’t welcoming someone new at the helm. Since 2021, a total of 18 men have coached at the seven North Carolina schools at college football’s highest level. Now, however, we’re in a period of stability. What better time to check out how hot the various seats across the state are getting. After all, going two years in a row with the same set of N.C. coaches has happened just twice in history.
Manny Diaz, Duke Seat temperature: Ice cold Entering his third year at Duke, Diaz has had the most successful start to a coaching tenure in Blue Devils’ history. Duke has back-to-back nine-win seasons, a program first, and the Blue Devils won last season’s ACC title. The potential for change comes not from a firing but a poaching. Mike Elko lasted two successful years in Durham before Texas A&M came calling. There were whispers about Diaz when Penn State and Virginia Tech were open last year. The frustration of being passed over by the College Football Playoff after winning a power conference and the ACC changing its rules in reaction to Duke’s title may make him more likely to listen next time. Jake Dickert, Wake Forest Seat temperature: Ice cold Everything that was said about Diaz is just as true for Dickert. He’s entering his second season in Winston-Salem, and his nine wins in his first year were more than Wake managed in the two previous seasons combined. It was just the fourth nine-win season in
program history, and his four ACC wins were the second-best league win total in 14 years. He also produced Wake’s first bowl win since 2022. A major power looking to fill an opening is the biggest threat to Wake’s football stability.
Dave Doeren, NC State Seat temperature: Toasty with a chance of hot
Blake Harrell, East Carolina Seat temperature: Ice cold Who said coaching major college football is hard? Harrell makes three coaches with nine-win seasons in their first full year at the helm. He went 5-1 as the interim coach in 2024 then 9-4 after getting the permanent gig last year. Last year was the most wins by the Pirates since 2013 and the best conference finish in five years. He’s also produced bowl wins in back-to-back years for the first time at ECU since 1964-65. ECU had a strong transfer portal class over the offseason and was the early recruiting leader in the American Athletic Conference for 2027, so Harrell has a solid foundation to build a program. As with all our coaches on ice-cold seats, that’s assuming no one with a bigger budget comes calling. Dowell Loggains, Appalachian State Seat temperature: Lukewarm It’s still early in Loggains’ tenure with the Mountaineers, so he’d have to have an utter disaster of a season to worry about a hot seat. However, in his first year as a head coach anywhere, he produced the worst season in App’s history as an FBS team as
KARL DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO
UNC coach Bill Belichick protests a call during the loss to NC State last season. the team finished three games under .500 for just the third time in the last three decades. Loggains has brought in plenty of power conference talent in the portal, but the offense will essentially be a complete rebuild. Tim Albin, Charlotte Seat temperature: Starting to warm up He’s entering his second season with the 49ers and had success in the MAC, including three straight 10-win seasons, to give him a little bit of a leash. However, his first season in Charlotte was an unmitigated disaster. The 49ers went 1-11 with the only win coming against FCS Monmouth. They had five games where they managed only one score. Like Loggains, Albin is building things from a very deep group of transfers. They’ll need to come together quickly or murmurs will start.
Greenville to host sixth consecutive Little League Softball World Series
The game also highlighted the atmosphere Charlotte FC supporters have built since the club began play in 2022. “Very, very nice. All game long you can hear the drums,” Vancouver Whitecaps FC star Thomas Muller said. “Not a boring one! It was a really intense one. So I think everyone had fun.” Zinckernagel praised the format and the opportunity to play alongside the league’s other standouts. “I love it. I think it’s so fun,” he said. “It’s a great way to bring the players together and celebrate the league ... I think it’s a great concept. MLS has a lot of quality and so many talents. So it’s
just a fun way to showcase it.” Westwood acknowledged he initially was unsure what to make of the All-Star tradition. “The minute it was announced, I was a bit — I don’t know, it’s different for the Englishmen, for the Europeans,” the Charlotte captain said. “But once you’re in it, it’s incredible.” The crowd of 35,197 provided another indication of Charlotte’s growing place in the American soccer landscape, giving Bank of America Stadium a lively backdrop for the league’s annual showcase. It was the event’s largest attendance since 72,317 fans watched the 2018 All-Star Game against Juventus at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
By Ryan Henkel North State Journal
MLS from page B1 “I had great players, amazing players around me, and that made my job easier,” Son said. “Scoring two goals makes the night really special.” Son, who joined LAFC 358 days before the game, was named the game’s most valuable player. “He’s an unbelievable player,” Nashville SC midfielder Hany Mukhtar said. “He’s a world-class player for a reason. He shows it every week, and we all know how good he is. We see it in training, and I’m not surprised at what he did.” Chicago Fire winger Philip Zinckernagel extended the MLS lead in the 42nd minute,
COURTESY LITTLE LEAGUE MEDIA RELATIONS
“We encourage everyone to come out, bring the family.” Greenville Convention Visitors Bureau President Rachel Whitten Canada, Italy and Puerto Rico. While competition is the name of the game, before the tournament began, Little League Softball also hosted a “Girls with Game” celebration. “It’s an opportunity for these young athletes to connect with one another, build friendships that span countries and regions and see firsthand the incredible opportunities that exist for girls in our sport,” said Little League
pouncing on a loose ball after Acevedo stopped an initial attempt. Salomon Rondon pulled Liga MX within 3-2 in the 55th minute, but FC Cincinnati midfielder Evander restored the two-goal cushion three minutes later with a curling finish. Jose Paradela scored in second-half stoppage time to make it 4-3, but Liga MX could not find an equalizer. The result gave MLS its second consecutive victory in the interleague showcase and improved its record to 4-1 in five All-Star meetings with Mexico’s top division. MLS won in 2021 and 2022, Liga MX responded with a 4-1 victory in 2024, and MLS reclaimed the
“I had great players, amazing players around me and that made my job easier/” Son Heung-min edge with a 3-1 win last year in Austin, Texas. The MLS roster featured 10 players who participated in the 2026 World Cup, while Liga MX had five. Most notably absent was Inter Miami star Lionel Messi, who was excused after Argentina’s run to the World Cup final, a 1-0 loss to Spain.
Everyone loves the circus, but not when they bought tickets to a football renaissance. Belichick’s program made more news in the tabloids than on the sports pages in last year’s debut season. Year 2 started out with the Tar Heels again opening fire directly into their foot, with program GM Mike Lombardi getting suspended and talk of possible investigations into NIL violations. The size of Belichick’s contract will make getting rid of him hard, but at some point, the program may have to consider a breakup if things don’t improve dramatically on and off the field.
and seen a champion crowned three times, with Pitt County bringing home the most recent title two years ago, and so Johnston County will be aiming to be the fourth. Johnston County didn’t simply advance to their spot either, they dominated the field, outscoring opponents 32-0 in their three-game state tournament run. Even before that, they outscored opponents 61-0 in the district tournament heading into states. As the host state, the team from North Carolina didn’t have to play in any additional regional games beyond the state championship, but Johnston County still has to be amongst some of the favorites given their dominance this year. “As long as we play to-
Johnston County will make its debut in Greenville at the Little League Softball World Series.
Director of Softball Development Ashlea Miller in a press release. While everyone’s goal is to be the World Series champs, taking time to form bonds and core memories in this once-in-a-lifetime experience is also something that is integral to Little League Softball’s mission. But in terms of on the field, this year, the Old North State will be represented for the first time by Johnston County Little League, the North Carolina state champion. While Johnston County first chartered with Little League in 1993, it didn’t have an official softball division until 2023. Three years later, they’re competing in the World Series. In total, North Carolina has sent 16 teams to the Little League Softball World Series
Bill Belichick, UNC Seat temperature: “This is fine” hell dog meme
gether and keep having fun, there is no limit to what this team can do,” North Carolina manager Ben Catarozzoli told WRAL. Catarozzoli is an EC teacher and athletic director at Archer Lodge Middle School, a part of Johnston County Public Schools. That limitless potential was apparent in N.C.’s first match of the tournament when they run-ruled Canada 16-4 in 31⁄2 innings. It was a close contest through two innings, with Canada and Johnston County alternating leads, but the girls from North Carolina put the dagger in the third, rattling off 12 runs in that frame alone. The early end was a fortunate outcome for Johnston County too, as they’ll have to play twice Monday due to inclement weather delaying their first game by a day. The full 22-game tournament is being aired on ESPN and ESPN2, with streaming available on ESPN+, and for the first time ever, the championship game will premiere on ABC. For those interested in attending in person, there are no costs associated with parking nor admission at the Little League Softball World Series. Multiple food and drink vendors will also be on site for those looking to eat at the event as well. “We encourage everyone to come out, bring the family,” said Greenville Convention & Visitors Bureau President Rachel Whitten. “It’s a great end of summer activity that has become a staple for a lot of locals, but even if you’re out of town, we’d love for you to come in, visit, check out these games and vendors and just the experience of what it feels like to be here for the Little League Softball World Series.”
The tournament features 12 teams from across the world, including one from Johnston County
THE LITTLE LEAGUE Softball World Series has once again returned to Greenville for its 52nd iteration. Since 1974, the LLSWS has pitted girls ages 10-12 against one another to crown the best softball team, and for the past five years, the tournament has taken place in North Carolina. Last year’s event brought north of $1 million in estimated local economic impact for the city, and Greenville officials are expecting a similar trend this year, putting the number around $1.6 million. This year, 12 teams from around the world are going head to head at Stallings Stadium at Elm Street Park from Aug. 2-9 for a shot at the title. This is the fifth year in which the World Series will utilize an expanded bracket, having gone from 10 teams to 12 in 2022. In total, eight regional champions from the United States as well as four international region winners qualified for the tournament this summer. The eight American teams will be representing Kentucky, New Jersey, Connecticut, Washington, Florida, Texas, California and North Carolina, while the international teams are from Japan,
The second-longest tenured coach in the ACC, Doeren has a group of detractors in the Wolfpack fanbase that are growing louder and more vocal. Duke’s ACC title last year didn’t help things as State’s football little brother has had more recent success than the Pack. State is one of four ACC teams never to appear in a conference title game, and the other three — Syracuse, Stanford and Cal — all arrived long after the game started being played. There was talk that Doeren might retire after the disappointing season last year, but he decided to return. Whether by firing or forced retirement, it may not be up to him if the Wolfpack underperforms.
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
POINT / COUNTERPOINT
Does Skubal trade prove MLB needs salary cap? SHAWN KREST / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Our editors debate the issue that may cost us the 2027 season
A bank of cameras at the Durham Bulls Athletic Park keep an eye on action on the field
SHAWN KREST
CORY LAVALETTE
Dodgers’ dominance sign of MLB’s broken system
Brain size, not purse size is the key
The Los Angeles Dodgers, winners of the last two World Series, landed the biggest name ahead of Major League Baseball’s trade deadline, acquiring two-time reigning Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers on Saturday. The Dodgers now have a payroll of about $430.5 million, nearly $60 million more than the No. 2 Mets and more than four times that of the Miami Marlins, who check in last at just over $82 million — an amount less than all 32 NHL teams are projected to have just under two months before the hockey season begins. The NHL awarded the Stanley Cup to the Carolina Hurricanes in June, the latest small-market team to rise to the top of the sport — something that has happened in baseball once, the 2015 Royals, in two decades. Money isn’t everything. The aforementioned Mets sit in last place in the NL East, and there’s a clear correlation between teams that draft and develop well and those who win. The Dodgers deserve credit for being perhaps the best at that. But having Scrooge McDuck-like money affords the Dodgers something teams like the Brewers — also managed very well by their front office — don’t have: the luxury to make mistakes. The Boys in Blue can make these bets because, as a largemarket team with through-the-roof revenue, they’ll still be in the black. If Skubal’s acquisition is successful, many will point to LA’s willingness to draft, develop and pony up the assets to get him. But when the Dodgers take a swing and miss, it’s just as easy for them to buy their way out of the problem. A war is on the horizon in baseball, and a salary cap — and, just as importantly, a salary floor — would help even the playing field. It would also give small-market teams hope. People in North Carolina remember the Hurricanes’ first trip to the Stanley Cup final, a precap five-game loss in 2002 against the Red Wings, who had nearly three times the payroll and a stunning nine future Hall of Famers. Baseball fans have already crowned the Dodgers with their third straight title. That’s not good for business. And while the owners will surely love the cost certainty of a salary cap, so will the fans. Especially those who have seen their teams and owners spin their wheels for decades while teams like the Dodgers stack the deck — and money — against them.
The next time you’re at a Durham Bulls game, turn around and look up. You’re being watched. Well, the field in front of you is watched, from all angles, by dozens of cameras. The Tampa Bay Rays, Durham’s parent club, has invested plenty of money into several high-tech systems that capture everything from spin rates and exit angles to 3D images of the players in action. The Rays aren’t the only team to invest heavily in tech for player development. So have the Brewers and Guardians — you know, all the teams that seem to constantly have a flow of new players, leading to people asking how they’re “always so good.” There’s also the Dodgers, who spend heavily in development tech, acting like a Goliath that learned how to use a slingshot, too. The rest of the league reacted to the advantage those teams created, but not in the way you might think. Instead of racing to improve their own teams and develop their own guys, they whined to MLB. It’s not fair, they said, to force us into an “arms race” of technology. So MLB limited the amount of tech a team could use. Some companies were left out, meaning some of those cameras in Durham aren’t recording anymore, or what they’re recording can’t be used. Others are now operated by MLB and shared among all teams equally. Which brings us to Tarik Skubal. The Dodgers traded for the best pitcher in the game, not because they were able to outbid everyone with their huge payroll but because they had better prospects than everyone else. Every Dodgers’ minor league affiliate has the best record in its respective league. The Rays’ Single-A team has the best record in all of Minor League Baseball. Milwaukee’s Double-A team leads its league. The rest of MLB’s attempt to hamstring the best farm systems backfired because the more restrictions you put in a game, the more of an advantage the smarter players have. MLB teams get about $200 million a year in revenue sharing. That’s free money, before they even start running their business. A total of eight teams spend that much. Everyone else is happy to pocket what they’re given and demand a salary cap to pull all the crabs back down into the bucket with them. The result of the salary cap will be similar to the tech cap — adding more restrictions won’t stop the teams who truly want to win from having an edge.
Shawn’s rebuttal: MLB has had nine different champions in 12 years, including three ranked outside the top 10 in payroll. Compare that to the salary cap poster child, the NBA, which in a recent 10-year span had six teams that didn’t feature Steph Curry or LeBron James make the Finals. Or the NFL, which has had one Super Bowl without the Patriots or Chiefs in the last 10. Caps don’t prevent dominance, they guarantee it because the teams that want to win will master the rules, and the more rules the better for the smarter front offices.
Cory’s rebuttal: The Brewers and Guardians have leveled up by leaning into technology and outsmarting much of baseball. You know what they have also done? Won zero championships since 1948. Milwaukee and Cleveland are prime examples of why a salary cap will work — it gives teams with shallower pockets a chance against a behemoth that also embraces new-age thinking but has the cash to back it up. The salary cap also forces thrifty owners to spend by instituting a floor — no more will teams receive $200 million in revenue sharing to only spend less than half that on the diamond.
Kuechly finds way to Canton The former Panthers linebacker will enter the Football Hall of Fame By Shawn Krest North State Journal JUST LIKE in his playing days, Luke Kuechly is prepared. He’s done his study and has learned everything he can. Three-hundred eighty-seven. That’s the number of members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. “Three-hundred eighty-seven is an idea in your mind,” he said in a video at the Hall. “When you think of a small percentage (of NFL players), you think maybe it’s … thousands. But no, it’s 387 people, and to be part of that crew is special.” This weekend, Kuechly will become one of them. He’s already done a walk through, looking at where his bust will reside. He’s glad he did because his preparation always seems to pay off. “Walking into that bust room is really cool, and I guess there’s 382 in there right now,” he said. “With the addition of us five it will be 387. Walking into that room right now, you see what that number truly looks like. It’s hard to wrap your head around a number until you can touch it.” There’s another number that helps put the accomplishments
MIKE MCCARN / AP PHOTO
Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly walks on the sidelines during a 2019 game, his last season in the NFL. of the career-long Carolina Panthers linebacker into perspective: three. There have been three players inducted into the hall at age 35 or younger. Kuechly, who played eight years in Carolina before concussions sent him to an early retirement, joins Gale Sayers, Jim Brown and Calvin Johnson. He’ll be the youngest defensive player to get inducted, breaking Dick Butkus’ record by a year. As he prepares to join football immortality, Kuechly is thinking about his youth. “I turned 21 a week before the
draft,” he said. “When I got down here, I was a kid trying to figure everything out.” Yes, Kuechly won Defensive Rookie of the Year, followed by Defensive Player of the Year in his second season with the Panthers. However, he struggled to find his place in the league and on the team. “I was kind of lost,” he said. That’s when former Panthers tight end Greg Olsen stepped into the picture, and Kuechly meshed his intense preparation with the value of teamwork. “After my rookie year, I went
back to school. After my second year, I went back to (his hometown of) Cincinnati. My third year, I stayed down in Carolina. I walked into the weight room and Greg was there. Greg said, ‘Come train with me.’ Greg was probably the best training partner you could ever have. My best memories in Carolina was offseasons with Greg, just ripping it in the weight room.” The pair developed into Pro Bowlers, one on each side of the ball. Kuechly would make the Pro Bowl in seven of his eight seasons in the league, earning All-Pro five times and leading the league in tackles twice. He was named to the NFL 2010s All-Decade team and won the NFL’s Butkus Award three times, adding to the one he earned in college. “I couldn’t have been in a better situation,” he said. “I was a product of the people and system in Carolina. … In football and in sports, a lot of the time, you’re a product of situations, and I was in a great situation in Carolina with fantastic coaches and a defense that allowed me to run around. I’m just fortunate that’s where I ended up.” The third of Kuechly’s Hall of Fame pillars — joining preparation and teamwork — came in his second year. When talking about important moments on the road to the Hall of Fame, Kuechly mentioned a game halfway through the season where he finished with just three tackles against the Rams, never reaching the quarterback or making a big play.
“I played awful,” Kuechly said. “I wasn’t doing my job. … I had like three tackles, and I was pissed, but we won, so I was like, ‘OK, it’s all right.’” After Monday’s film review, defensive coordinator Sean McDermott took Kuechly aside to ask what he’d learned from the game. “I’ve got to get to the ball faster. I had no ball production,” was Kuechly’s answer. Wrong answer. “He just kind of looked at me, and I quickly realized that … I didn’t have any answers,” Kuechly recalled. McDermott told him, “No, it’s not really what happened. You didn’t do your job, and you were trying to make plays that weren’t yours, and they were hitting in your gap.” Do your job. “Nothing was coming my way, early on in the game,” Kuechly said. “I was getting bored and bored and bored, and then I was trying to reach and make plays in areas that I shouldn’t be, and when I was reaching to make those plays ’cause I was bored, the ball was hitting where I should have been, and as a result, big plays happen. People looked bad because of my poor play. “You need to make the plays that come to you,” McDermott told him. “That’s all we need you to do.” For eight years in Carolina, the lost kid prepared, worked with his teammates and made the plays that came to him. This weekend, he’ll be finding his way to Canton.
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
CUMBERLAND NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001117-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Natasha Danada Johnson, 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 23rd day of October 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 23rd day of July 2026. Eric Woods, Administrator of the Natasha Danada Johnson Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 07/23, 07/30, 08/06, 08/13
NOTICE NOTICE TO DEBTORS AND CREDITORS estate of Mark L Spencer file #26E001149-250 Having qualified as the administrator of the Estate of Mark L Spencer, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate to present them to the undersigned on or before October 31, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 20 day of July 2026 Joshua James Spencer Administrator of the Estate of Mark L Spencer 4014 Nashville dr Fayetteville NC 28306
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified on June 19, 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Donald Thomas, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to present them, duly verified, to the undersigned on or before October 23, 2026, 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. This the 23rd day of July, 2026. Robert E. Allen, Jr., Executor Estate of Donald Thomas 282 Bullard Circle Fayetteville, NC 28311 First publication: July 23, 2026 Please send claims to 282 Bullard Circle Fayetteville, NC 28311.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Ralph E. White a/k/a Ralph E. White, Jr. a/k/a Ralph White a/k/a Ralph White, Jr. a/k/a Ralph Edgar White a/k/a Ralph Edgar White, Jr. Cumberland County Estate File No. 26E001075-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Ralph E. White a/k/a Ralph E. White, Jr. a/k/a Ralph White a/k/a Ralph White, Jr. a/k/a Ralph Edgar White a/k/a Ralph Edgar White, Jr., Deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to R. Williford McCauley, Executor of the Estate of Ralph E. White a/k/a Ralph E. White, Jr. a/k/a Ralph White a/k/a Ralph White, Jr. a/k/a Ralph Edgar White a/k/a Ralph Edgar White, Jr., at P. O. Box 53606, Fayetteville, NC 28305 or 235 Green Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301, on or before the 30th day of October, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of Ralph E. White a/k/a Ralph E. White, Jr. a/k/a Ralph White a/k/a Ralph White, Jr. a/k/a Ralph Edgar White a/k/a Ralph Edgar White, Jr. are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above. This the 30th day of July, 2026. R. Williford McCauley, Executor of the Estate of Ralph E. White a/k/a Ralph E. White, Jr. a/k/a Ralph White a/k/a Ralph White, Jr. a/k/a Ralph Edgar White a/k/a Ralph Edgar White, Jr.
NEW HANOVER NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE UNDERSIGNED, Wayne David Bigg, having qualified on the 14th day of July, 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Wayne Thomas Bigg (26E000847-640), deceased, does hereby notify all persons, firms, 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 26th day of October, 2026, or the claims will be forever barred thereafter, and this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make prompt payment to the undersigned at the above address. This 23rd day of July 2026. Wayne David Bigg Executor ESTATE OF WAYNE THOMAS BIGG David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411 Publish: July 23, 2026 July 30, 2026 August 6, 2026 August 13, 2026
CUMBERLAND NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY In the Superior Court
AMENDED NOTICE OF SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE’S FORECLOSURE SALE OF REAL AND PERSONAL PROPERTY 26SP-000507-250 UNDER AND BY VIRTUE of the power and authority contained in that Deed of Trust by White House Investment Group LLC(“Borrower”), dated June 23, 2025 securing an indebtedness to Windstone Private Capital in the original principal amount of $156,445.00 and recorded on June 24, 2025, in Book No. 12266 at Page 131 of the Cumberland County Public Registry (the “Deed of Trust”); and because of default in the payment of the indebtedness secured thereby and failure to carry out and perform the stipulations and agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the
NOTICE
NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, BERNARD A MAGUIRE, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of JOYCE ELAINE MAGUIRE, Deceased, hereby notifies all persons, firms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said BERNARD A MAGUIRE, at the address set out below, on or before October 16, 2026, or this notice may be pleaded in bar of any payment or recovery of same. All persons indebted to said Decedent will please make immediate payment to the undersigned at the address set out below. This the 8h day of July, 2026. BERNARD A MAGUIRE Executor OF ESTATE OF JOYCE ELAINE MAGUIRE c/o ROBERT H. HOCHULI, JR. 219 RACINE DR., SUITE #A6 Wilmington, NC 28405
Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of TIMOTHY JAMES KLIPFEL aka TIMOTHY J. KLIPFEL, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the office of TAYLOR B. CALLICUTT, ATTORNEY AT LAW, PO Box 2445, Asheboro, North Carolina 27204, on or before October 23, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 23rd day of July, 2026
Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Annie Mae Wootton aka Annie Mae H. Wooten aka Annie Mae Hughes aka Annie Mae Wooten aka Annie Mae Hughes Wooten aka Annie H. Wooten, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the office of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before October 26, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 23rd day of July 2026
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Wayne Seton Ross, also known as Wayne S. Ross, deceased, late of New Hanover County, North Carolina, the undersigned hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before October 16, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment. This the 16th day of July, 2026. DeeAnn C. Ross Executor of the Estate of Wayne Seton Ross, also known as Wayne S. Ross 1000 Cheryl Lane Wilmington, NC 28409
NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Frances Holland Teed, late of New Hanover County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said decedent to present them to the undersigned on or before October 31, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment. This the 24th day of July, 2026. John W. Teed Executor 931 Ideal Way Charlotte NC 28203 704-688-5713 Estate File No.: 26E000901-640
RANDOLPH NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Cornelius Griffin, Jr. aka Cornelius Neal Griffin, Jr., late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the office of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before October 23, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 23rd day of July 2026. CORNELIUS GRIFFIN, III aka CORNELIUS NEAL GRIFFIN EXECUTOR of the Estate of Cornelius Griffin, Jr. aka Cornelius Neal Griffin, Jr. S. SCOTT EGGLESTON, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 07/23/26 07/30/26 08/06/26 08/13/26
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of ELIZABETH WALL GRIFFIN aka ELIZABETH FAYE WALL GRIFFIN aka ELIZABETH GRIFFIN aka ELIZABETH W. GRIFFIN, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the office of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before October 23, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 23rd day of July 2026. CORNELIUS GRIFFIN, III aka CORNELIUS NEAL GRIFFIN EXECUTOR of the Estate of ELIZABETH WALL GRIFFIN aka ELIZABETH FAYE WALL GRIFFIN aka ELIZABETH GRIFFIN aka ELIZABETH W. GRIFFIN S. SCOTT EGGLESTON, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 07/23/26 07/30/26 08/06/26 08/13/26
Karen T. Klipfel, Executor of the Estate of Timothy James Klipfel aka Timothy J. Klipfel, deceased TAYLOR B. CALLICUTT ATTORNEY AT LAW PO Box 2445 Asheboro, NC 27204 (336) 308-0354 PUBL/DATES: 07/23/26 07/30/26 08/06/26 08/13/26
NOTICE FILE No. 26E000544-750 Dale Kirby Murray - Notice to Creditors This notice is hereby given to all individuals, firms, or corporations with claims against the estate of the deceased, Dale Kirby Murray, formerly of Randolph County, North Carolina. Please present your claims to the undersigned no later than October 21, 2026; failure to do so will result in the barring of recovery. Additionally, any persons indebted to the estate are kindly requested to make prompt payment to the undersigned. This is the 17th day of July 2026 Amber Lael Patterson 420 Sanders Road Sanford, NC 27332 Publish dates: July 23; July 30; and August 6; August 13, 2026.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of KAREN DALE RICH PRESNELL aka KAREN PRESNELL aka KAREN R. PRESNELL aka KAREN RICH PRESNELL, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the office of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before October 16, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 16th day of July 2026. NICHOLAS RYAN PRESNELL aka NICHOLAS PRESNELL Executor of the Estate of KAREN DALE RICH PRESNELL aka KAREN PRESNELL aka KAREN R. PRESNELL aka KAREN RICH PRESNELL MADISON C. HILDEBRANDT, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 07/16/26 07/23/26 07/30/26 08/04/26
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administrator CTA of the Estate of ANNA MITCHELL TAYLOR aka ANNA MARIE TAYLOR aka ANNA M. TAYLOR aka ANNA TAYLOR, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 195 Dovefield Dr. Summerfield, NC 27358, on or before October 23, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms or corporations indebted to said estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 23rd day of July 2026. HAYLEY MARIE HOOVER aka HAYLEY MARIE CONNER Administrator CTA of the Estate of ANNA MITCHELL TAYLOR aka ANNA MARIE TAYLOR aka ANNA M. TAYLOR aka ANNA TAYLOR HAYLEY MARIE HOOVER aka HAYLEY MARIE CONNER, Administrator CTA 195 Dovefield Dr. Summerfield, NC 27358 (336) 465-9397 PUBL/DATES: 07/23/26 07/30/26 08/06/26 08/13/26
SERVIS ONE, INC. DBA BSI FINANCIAL SERVICES v. UNKNOWN HEIRS OF CYNTHIA D. ASHFORD; SHERRY SIMPSON-BAGGETT; SHELIA SIMMONS; ALEX C. ASHFORD; SHELIA SIMMONS, AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF CYNTHIA DENISE ASHFORD; EVANGELINE ASHFORD DEMPS; SHARON R. HEMINGWAY; CARRIE J. ASHFORD SIMPSON; STONE CREEK OF EASTOVER HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.; THE
SECRETARY OF VETERAN AFFAIRS C/O THE DEPARTMENT OF VETERAN AFFAIRS; GODDARD & PETERSON, PLLC; Docket 25CV013246-250 Party to be served: Sharon Hemingway, Evangeline Ashford Demps and Sherry Simpson-Baggett
indebtedness secured by said Deed of Trust, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will place for sale, at public auction, to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at Cumberland County Courthouse, in Fayetteville, NC North Carolina, on August 17, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. those parcels of land, including all of Borrower’s right, title and interest now owned or hereafter acquired in and to the property, including all estates, rights, tenements, hereditaments, privileges, easements, and appurtenances of any kind benefitting the property, all means of access to and from the property, whether public or private and all water and mineral rights, situated, lying and being in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows:
map thereof recorded in Plat Book 16 Page 13, in the Cumberland County Registry
BEING ALL of Lot 4, Block C of GREENWOOD HOMES, SECTION III, as same is shown on
Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the aboveentitled special proceeding. The nature of
The terms of the sale are that the real property hereinbefore described will be sold for cash to the highest bidder. The sale of the personal property is made in accordance with G.S. § 25-9-604 (a) and (b). A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. In the event that the Holder or its intended assignee is exempt from paying the same, the successful bidder shall be required to pay revenue stamps on the Trustee’s Deed, and any Land Transfer Tax. The real property hereinabove described is being offered for sale “AS IS, WHERE IS” and will be sold subject to all superior liens, unpaid taxes, and special assessments.
Scarlet Ann Wootton-Tyler Administrator of the Estate of Annie Mae Wootton aka Annie Mae H. Wooten aka Annie Mae Hughes aka Annie Mae Wooten aka Annie Mae Hughes Wooten aka Annie H. Wooten Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 07/23/26 07/30/26 08/06/26 08/13/26
WAKE Notice to Creditors Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of LINDA MAE FARRELL, late of Wake County, North Carolina (25E001379-910), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 9th day of November 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 6th day of August 2026. Ian Farrell Executor of the Estate of Linda Mae Farrell c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 8/6, 8/13, 8/20, 8/27/2026)
Notice to Creditors Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of THOMAS SUTTON MARTIN, III, late of Wake County, North Carolina (26E002024-910), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 19th day of October 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 16th day of July 2026. Allison Martin Pine Executor Estate of Thomas Sutton Martin, III c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 07/16, 07/23, 07/30, 08/06/2026)
Notice to Creditors Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of JUDY CATHERINE MORRISON, late of Wake County, North Carolina (26E001988-910), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 27th day of October 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 23rd day of July 2026. David John Engstrom Administrator of the Estate of Judy Catherine Morrison c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 07/23, 07/30, 08/6, 08/13/2026)
the relief being sought is as follows: Plaintiff is seeking the foreclosure of real property at 1708 ROCK ROSE DR. FAYETTEVILE, NC 28312 You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than Monday, August 31, 2026, and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.
This, the 17th day of July, 2026 Gregory P. Cowan NC Bar #39608 Attorney for Petitioner Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 13010 Morris Road, Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004
Other conditions will be announced at the sale. The sale will be held open for ten (10) days for upset bids as by law required. 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to 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 declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.
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 upon 10 days’ written notice to the landlord. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a bona fide lease or tenancy may have additional rights
Additional Notice Where the Real Property is Residential With Less Than 15 Rental Units:
Cameron D. Scott Attorney for Trustee
An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. § 45-21.29
B6
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
CUMBERLAND NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000260-250 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Jerome Baker (Deceased) and Yucines Farmer (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Jerome Baker and Yucines Farmer) to Hutchens Law Firm LLP, Trustee(s), dated March 17, 2021, and recorded in Book No. 11062, at Page 0048 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 Office 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 offer for sale at the courthouse
AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000322-250 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Gabriel Garcia (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Gabriel Garcia) to McGeachy, Hudson & Zuravel, Donald C. Hudson, Trustee(s), dated June 18, 2020, and recorded in Book No. 10797, at Page 0653 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 Office 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on August 10, 2026 and will sell to the
25SP001306-250 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH COUNTY
CAROLINA,
CUMBERLAND
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Seaborn Anthony Anderson and Maggie Anderson to Cliff Crabtree, Trustee(s), which was dated June 29, 2000 and recorded on July 3, 2000 in Book 5297 at Page 511, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.
door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on August 10, 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: Parcel No. 0416-25-6647 BEING all of Lot Number 56 in a subdivision known as BARWIN ESTATES, SECTION TWO and the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 37, at page 47, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 4910 Ellsworth Drive, 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
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 No. 30, in a subdivision known as Devonwood West, according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Book of Plats 45, Page 43, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 205 Tiverton Street, 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 residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the
on August 12, 2026 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING all of Lot 7 SANDY PINES WEST as shown on the plat of same duly recorded in Book of Plats 102, Page 70, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 616 Feature Ct, Hope Mills, NC 28348.
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 offer 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
A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five 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.
26SP000405-250 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
on August 12, 2026 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit:
NORTH COUNTY
CAROLINA,
CUMBERLAND
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Carlas Leontaye Allen, Jr. and Sharlin Allen to Person & Lee, PLLC, Trustee(s), which was dated September 7, 2022 and recorded on September 9, 2022 in Book 11567 at Page 838, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.
BEING all of Lot 62, in a subdivision known as Owen Village, and the same duly recorded in Plat Book 15, Page 35, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 412 Buie Ct, Fayetteville, NC 28304.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of
the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 Maggie Anderson.
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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.
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
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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 Carlas Leontaye Allen, Jr. and Sharlin Allen.
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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
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
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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement
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”.
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”.
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 offer 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
A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five 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.
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Cumberland County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on August 18th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: BEING all of Lot 39 in a subdivision known as BETHANY SUBDIVISION, SECTION II, PART B, according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Book of Plats 90, Page 43, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 841 Jeremiah Street, Stedman, North Carolina. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 841 Jeremiah Street, Stedman, NC 28391 Tax ID: 0497-39-7573 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-five 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 five 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 certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 Heirs of Brenda BarronForbes. 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.
location designated for foreclosure sales, on August 18, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 9497-40-9210 ADDRESS: 6725 CEDAR CHEST COURT FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28314 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): TIMOTHY O. JACKSON AND WIFE, LEISA S. JACKSON THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 4480, PAGE 0214, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT NUMBER 69, IN A SUBDIVISION KNOWN AS HAMPTON OAKS, SECTION FOUR, AND THE SAME BEING DULY RECORDED IN BOOK OF PLATS 84 PAGE 172 CUMBERLAND COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA REGISTRY. 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 offered pursuant to
this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the
confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of
NORTH COUNTY
CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND 26 SP 000403-250
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by George M. Forbes and Brenda Barron-Forbes, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $94,500.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., (“MERS”) as beneficiary, as nominee for Yadkin Valley Bank and Trust Company, Mortgagee, dated January 25th, 2013 and recorded on February 11th, 2013 in Book 09109, Page 0567, Cumberland 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 Office of the Register of Deeds of Cumberland County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 25SP001270-250 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by STEPHEN JAMES DIACZYSZYN AND MICHELLE L. DIACZYSZYN dated April 22, 1996 in the amount of $83,900.00 and recorded in Book 4480, Page 0214 and further modified by Agreement recorded on January 27,202 in Book 11376, Page 615 in the Cumberland 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 Official Records of Cumberland County, North Carolina, in Book 12382, Page 372, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary
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 effective 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 §4521.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm, LLP P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 27736 - 141241
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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 30628 - 159110
If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 25-32486-FC01
of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 26-09320-FC01
effective date of termination. If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Substitute Trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee David Neill, NCSB #23396 McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC Attorney for Anchor Trustee Services, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) dneill@mtglaw.com
the termination. THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection. IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY. Sarah A. Waldron or Terrass Scott Misher, Esq ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorneys for the Substitute Trustee 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Telephone: (470) 321-7112
B7
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
CUMBERLAND
described as follows: Tract 1
13525288 26SP000125-250
Property Address: 1319 Odom Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28304 Recorded in Deed Book 10690, Page 368
NOTICE OF SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE’S FORECLOSURE SALE OF REAL PROPERTY
Being all of Lot 24, Block “B” in a Subdivision known as ADDITION TO SECTION THREE, SHERWOOD PARK according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Book of Plats 38, Page 19, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.
UNDER AND BY VIRTUE of the power and authority contained in that certain Deed of Trust, Security Agreement and Assignment of Rents and Leases executed and delivered by Real Estate Properties NC, LLC (hereinafter “Borrower”) dated January 25, 2022 and filed on January 25, 2022 and recorded in Book 11375 at Page 335 in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Cumberland County, North Carolina (hereinafter “Deed of Trust”); and because of the default in the payment of the indebtedness secured thereby and failure to carry out and perform the stipulations and agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the indebtedness secured by the Deed of Trust, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will place for sale, at public auction, to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at Cumberland County Courthouse, 117 Dick Street, Fayetteville, NC on AUGUST 10, 2026 AT 12:00 NOON all of Borrower’s right to the real property described hereinbelow, together with any improvements and fixtures existing or hereafter placed on or attached to the real property, and all other appurtenant rights and privileges, situated, lying and being in Cumberland County, State of North Carolina, and being more particularly
DAVIDSON 26SP000170-280 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DAVIDSON COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Jason T. Cates and Anna Marie Cates to Charles D. Robison, III and William T. Morrison, Trustee(s), which was dated August 28, 2003 and recorded on September 2, 2003 in Book 1456 at Page 825, Davidson County Registry, North Carolina.
Parcel: 0416-45-2099 Tract 2 Property Address: 431 and 433 Squirrel Street, Fayetteville, NC 28303 Recorded in Deed Book 10642, Page 615 BEING all of Lots 48 & 49, in a subdivision known as Oakland Sub-Division, and the same being duly recorded in Plat Book 16, Page 35, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Parcel: 0418-18-5922 and 0418-18-4971 Tract 3 Property Address: 2513 Brinkley Drive, Spring Lake, NC 28390 Recorded in Deed Book 10641, Page 236 BEING all of Lot 172, in a subdivision known as Overhills Park Sub-Division, Section III, and the same being duly recorded in Plat Book 28, Page 34, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.
Parcel No.: 0512-39-9252
or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on August 10, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Davidson County, North Carolina, to wit:
immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.
BEING KNOWN AND DESIGNATED AS LOT NO. 108 AS SHOWN ON THE PLAT ENTITLED FRIEDBURG PLACE, SECTION 4, AS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 19, PAGE 32, IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF DAVIDSON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, REFERENCE TO WHICH IS HEREBY MADE FOR A MORE PARTICULAR DESCRIPTION. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.
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 offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located,
Said property is commonly known as 6111 Herinhut Rd, Winston Salem, NC 27127.
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 26SP000127-280 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by JOSEPH ALEXANDER KIRK dated July 18, 2024 in the amount of $216,234.00 and recorded in Book 2658, Page 1850 of the Davidson 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 Official Records of Davidson County, North Carolina, in Book DE 2747, Page 1686, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Davidson County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on August 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Davidson, North Carolina,
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22SP000495-280 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Diane Laws Murphy (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Diane Laws Murphy) to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), dated October 8, 2004, and recorded in Book No. 1562, at Page 112 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 Office 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 offer 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 August 12, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real
DURHAM NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DURHAM COUNTY 26 SP 000411-310 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Portia W Nicholson, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $76,018.76, to CitiFinancial Services, Inc. , Mortgagee, dated October 10th, 2005 and recorded on October 19th, 2005 in Book 4989, Page 615, and subsequently modified by Loan Modification recorded on March 13th, 2025 in Book 10269 at Page 001, Durham 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 Office of the Register of Deeds of Durham 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
BEGINNING AT A STAKE LOCATED NORTH 61 DEGREES 20 MINUTES WEST 130.0 FEET FROM THE NORTHERN MARGIN OF EAST BRINKLEY DRIVE AS SHOWN ON A PLAT OF OVERHILLS PARK SUBDIVISION, SECTION III, RECORDED IN BOOK OF PLATS 28, PAGE 34, CUMBERLAND COUNTY REGISTRY, SAID STAKE ALSO BEING LOCATED IN THE COMMON CORNER OF THE SOUTHWESTERN CORNER OF LOT NO. 172 AND THE NORTHWESTERN CORNER OF LOT NO. 173 AS SHOWN ON SAID PLAT; AND RUNNING THENCE ALONG THE WESTERN LINE OF LOT NO. 172 AS SHOWN ON SAID PLAT, NORTH 28 DEGREES 40 MINUTES EAST 80.0 FEET TO A STAKE, SAID STAKE ALSO BEING LOCATED IN THE COMMON CORNER OF THE SOUTHWESTERN CORNER OF LOT NO. 171 AND THE NORTHWESTERN CORNER OF LOT NO. 273 AS SHOWN ON SAID PLAT; THENCE NORTH 61 DEGREES 20 MINUTES WEST 112.0 FEET TO A STAKE; THENCE SOUTH 11 DEGREES 05 MINUTES WEST 88.2 FEET TO A STAKE; THENCE SOUTH 61 DEGREES 20 MINUTES EAST 86.25 FEET TO THE BEGINNING, AND BEING A PORTION OF THE PROPERTY DESIGNATED AS UNDEVELOPED LYING ADJACENT TO THE WESTERN LINE OF LOT NO. 172 OF OVERHILLS PARK SUBDIVISION, SECTION III, AS SHOWN ON A PLAT OF SAME, RECORDED IN BOOK OF PLATS 28, PAGE 34, CUMBERLAND COUNTY REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA.
A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five 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
Addresses of property: 1319 Odom Drive, Fayetteville, Cumberland County, NC 431 and 433 Squirrel Street, Fayetteville, Cumberland County, NC
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 Jason Todd Cates.
2513 Brinkley Drive, Spring Lake, NC 28390 Tax Parcel IDs: 0416-45-2099 0418-18-5922 and 0418-184971 0512-39-9252 Present Record Owner: Real Estate Properties NC, LLC The terms of the sale are that the real property hereinbefore described will be sold for cash to the highest bidder. The Substitute Trustee reserves the right to require a cash deposit or a certified check not to exceed the greater of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00). In the event that the note holder or its intended assignee is exempt from paying the same, the successful bidder may also be required to pay revenue stamps on the Trustee’s Deed, any Land Transfer Tax, and the tax required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The real property hereinabove described is being offered for sale “AS IS, WHERE IS” and will be sold subject to all superior liens, unpaid taxes, and special assessments. Other conditions will be announced at the sale. The sale will be held open for ten (10) days for upset bids as by law required.
believe the challenge to have merit, may declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice Where the Real Property is Residential With Less Than 15 Rental Units: 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 effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the 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 effective date of the termination.
If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to 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
Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. Substitute Trustee By: William Walt Pettit, Attorney 6230 Fairview Road, Suite 315 Charlotte, NC 28210 Telephone: (704) 362-9255
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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.
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 transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988
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
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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the
and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 0501900000011 ADDRESS: 511 SMITH RD LEXINGTON, NC 27292 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): JOSEPH ALEXANDER KIRK THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF DAVIDSON, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 2658, PAGE 1850, AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A STONE IN THE CENTER OF THE PUBLIC ROAD, SANFORD YOUNT’S CORNER; THENCE WITH HIS LINE N. 5° 00’ E. 495 FEET TO AN IRON STAKE, NEW CORNER TO EDGAR P. MORRIS; THENCE WITH TWO NEW LINES TO MORRIS N. 87° 38’ W. 514.2 FEET TO AN IRON; THENCE S. 5° 00’ W. 495 FEET TO A POINT IN THE CENTER OF SAID PUBLIC ROAD; THENCE WITH THE ROAD S. 87° 38’ W. 514.2 FEET TO THE BEGINNING, CONTAINING 5.8 ACRES MORE OR LESS. 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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination. THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection. IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY.
estate situated in Thomasville in the County of Davidson, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Lot 2 of the Diane L. Murphy subdivision as shown by Plat Book 43, Page 16 recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Davidson County, NC. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 100 Forest Drive, Thomasville, North Carolina.
required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is
offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Durham County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on August 20th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Beginning at an iron stake on the West side of the Apex Highway said stake being 61.12 feet in a southerly direction from the south side of Hope Avenue, if extended, and running thence North 85 degrees 00 minutes West 107.90 feet to an iron stake in the east line of Lot 9, Block “C”, as per plat hereinafter referred to, thence with the east line of Lot No. 9, North 5 degrees 07 minutes East 60.48 feet to an iron stake on the south side of Hope Avenue; thence with the south side of Hope Avenue, South 85 degrees 15 minutes East 102.5 feet to the beginning of a curve; thence in a southeasterly direction along said curve as it curves in a clockwise direction with a radius of 20.00 feet for a distance of 19.73 feet to an iron stake on the West side of the Apex Highway; thence in a southerly direction with the west side of the Apex Highway as it curves in a counterclockwise direction with a radius of 4963.23 feet for a distance of 43.90 feet to the point of beginning, and being part of Lots 10, 11, 12, 13 and 14 in Block “C” of Liberty Park, as per plat and survey thereof now on file in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Durham County in Plat Book 3, at page 78, to
which reference is hereby made for a more particular description of same. Be fee simple deed from Mack Bunch, unmarried as set forth in Book 414, page 572 dated 04/18/1974 and recorded 05/15/1974, Durham County Records, State of North Carolina. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 1800 NC Hwy 55, Durham, NC 27707 Tax ID: 116719 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-five 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 five 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 certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing.
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 Portia W. Nicholson. 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 effective 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 §4521.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of termination. If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Substitute Trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.
Trustee 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.
File No.: 26-11174-FC01
Sarah A. Waldron or Terrass Scott Misher, Esq ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorneys for the Substitute Trustee 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Telephone: (470) 321-7112
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm, LLP P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 10954 - 46343
Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee By: David Neill, NCSB #23396 McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC Attorney for Anchor Trustee Services, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) dneill@mtglaw.com 26-001050-01
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
DURHAM NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000535-310 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by S2 Bridges ARO LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, S2 Bridges VAU LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, S2 Bridges BEVE LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, S2 Bridges LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, S2 Woods ARO LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, S2 Woods VAU LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, S2 Woods BEVE LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and S2 Woods LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): S2 Bridges ARO LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and S2 Bridges VAU LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and S2 Bridges BEVE LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and S2 Bridges LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and S2 Woods ARO LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and S2 Woods VAU LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and S2 Woods BEVE LLC, a Delaware limited liability company and S2 Woods LLC, a Delaware limited liability company) to Chicago Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated December 16, 2021, and recorded in Book No. 9570, at Page 207 in Durham 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 Office of the Register of Deeds Durham 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Durham, Durham County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 3:00 PM on August 18, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Durham in the County of Durham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Individual Property located at 7304 Calibre Park Drive, Durham Lying and being situate in Durham County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows:
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 26SP000425-310 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by KAREN PERRY AND SHON C. PERRY dated July 22, 2003 in the amount of $168,024.00 and recorded in Book 4022, Page 180 of the Durham 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 Official Records of Durham County, North Carolina, in Book 10520, Page 580, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Durham County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on August 11, 2026 at 11:30 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following
26-125532 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION DURHAM COUNTY 26SP000420-310 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY WILLIE LEE BARRETT AND ANNIE M. BARRETT DATED NOVEMBER 9, 1994 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 2036 AT PAGE 252 AND MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED JANUARY 24, 2025, IN BOOK 10244, PAGE 939 IN THE DURHAM COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP000412-310 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by David Stanford Green and Stacie Michelle Green (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): David Stanford Green and Stacie Michelle Green) to Cathleen Birli, Trustee(s), dated April 8, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 9667, at Page 376 in Durham 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 Office of the Register of Deeds Durham 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Durham, Durham County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 3:00 PM on August 18, 2026 and will sell
FORSYTH NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 25SP001862-330 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by BAILEY INGRAM dated September 27, 2022in the amount of $180,000.00 and recorded in Book RE 3720, Page 31 of the Forsyth 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 Official Records of Forsyth County, North Carolina, in Book RE 3891, Page 2049, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Forsyth County, North Carolina,
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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
feet to an iron pipe, and (2) N. 30-07-03 E. 499.83 feet to the concrete monument at the point of Beginning, containing approximately 32.4360 acres. Being the same property shown on a survey entitled, “As-Built Survey: Woods Edge Apartments,” prepared by Bass, Nixon and Kennedy, Inc., Consulting Engineers, dated July 8, 1985 and last revised December 20, 2005, bearing the seal of Edmund H. Davenport. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 7304 Calibre Park Drive, Durham, North Carolina and 4655 Hope Valley Road, Durham, North Carolina. TOGETHER WITH those certain nonexclusive, perpetual easements twenty (20) feet in width, granted by Woodcroft Company to Woods Edge Apartments, Ltd. And the City of Durham for the purpose of installation and maintenance of water and sewer lines constituting appurtenances to the above-described premises, which are recorded, respectively, in Book 1229, at Page 539, and Book 1233, at Page 103, Durham County Registry.
Individual Property located at 4655 Hope Valley Road, Durham Lying and being situate in Durham County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a concrete monument located in the southeasterly margin of the right-of-way of Hope Valley Road (North Carolina Highway 751) (a 60’ public rightof-way), said beginning point having North Carolina Grid Coordinates of Y=791,807.08 and X=2,013,368.98, and being also the southwest corner of the property of Jack Adcock (now or formerly) as described in Book 259, Page 497, Durham County Registry; thence with the property line of Jack Adcock the following two (2) courses and distances: (1) S. 59-56-11 E. 499.68 feet
to a concrete monument, and (2) N. 30-054 E. 300.28 feet to a concrete monument; thence with the southern property line of Irene M. Ward (now or formerly) as described in Book 309, at Page 109, Durham County Registry, the following two (2) courses and distances: (1) N. 84-23-58 E. 459.86 feet to a concrete monument, and (2) N. 29-4618 E. 118.25 feet to a point; thence with the southern property line of Frank K. and John G. Borden (now or formerly) as described in Book 352, at Page 274, Durham County Registry, N. 88-05-57 E. 371.19 feet to an iron pine; thence leaving said line and running with the meanders of the 245-foot contour of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers flowage easement, as recorded in Book 1111, at Page 683, Durham County Registry, the following eight (8) courses and distances: (1) S. 6019-22 W. 227.93 feet to an iron pipe, (2) S. 22-24-28 W. 440.06 feet to an iron pipe, (3) S. 40-15-27 E. 320.06 feet to an iron pipe, (4) S. 06-59-39 W. 230.04 feet to an iron pipe, (5) S. 79-59-45 W. 239.99 feet to an iron pipe, (6) N. 40-30-10 W. 249.96 feet to an iron pipe, (7) S. 74-14-56 W. 389.99 feet to an iron pipe, and (8) S. 14-15-05 W. 269.94 feet to a point located in the northern margin of the right-of-way of Woodcroft Parkway (a 104’ public right-of-way); thence continuing along said margin of the right-of-way of Woodcraft Parkway the following six (6) courses and distances: (1) with the arc of a circular curve to the left having a radius of 378 feet, an arc distance of 219.61 feet, and a chord bearing and distance of S. 75-57-08 W. 216.53 feet to an iron pipe, (2) with the arc of a circular curve to the right having a radius of 442 feet, an arc distance of 370.48 feet, and a chord bearing and distance of S. 8427-33 W. 358.70 feet to an iron pipe, (3) N. 70-23-25 W. 7.28 feet to an iron pipe, (4) with the arc of a circular curve to the left having a radius of 476 feet, an arc distance of 155.59 feet, and a chord bearing and distance of N. 79-45-17 W. 154.90 feet to an iron pipe, (5) N. 89-07-07 W. 106.78 feet to an iron pipe, and (6) with the arc of a circular curve to the right having a radius of 324 feet, an arc distance of 0.56 feet, and a chord bearing and distance of S. 89-13-32 W. 0.56 feet to an iron pipe located in the margin of the right-of-way of Woodcroft Parkway; thence running along the northern property line of Woodcroft Company (now or formerly), as recorded in Book 1114, at Page 137, Durham County Registry, N. 39-44- 07 W. 223.99 feet to an iron pipe which is located in the southeasterly margin of the right-of-way of Hope Valley Road; thence running with said margin of the right-of-way of Hope Valley Road the following two (2) courses and distances: (1) N. 29-54-32 E. 568.55
real estate situated in the County of Durham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 0814-97-5530 ADDRESS: 7 BRESLIN TRAIL DURHAM, NC 27712 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): SHON C. PERRY THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF DURHAM, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 4022, PAGE 180, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 79, LATTAMOOR SUBDIVISION, PHASE II, AS IS SHOWN ON PLAT RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 144, PAGE 68 OF THE DURHAM COUNTY REGISTRY. 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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection. IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY.
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 Durham County courthouse at 11:00AM on August 13, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Durham County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Willie Lee Barrett and Annie M. Barrett, dated November 9, 1994 to secure the original principal amount of $41,340.00, and recorded in Book 2036 at Page 252 of the Durham County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified 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: 907 Dale Street, Durham, NC 27701
Tax Parcel ID: 112006 Present Record Owners: Willie Lee Barrett and Annie M. Barrett The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Willie Lee Barrett and Annie M. Barrett. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be
advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is June 18, 2026. __________________ ___________________ Ellen Wiggins N.C. State Bar No. #55909 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cliff Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By:
to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Durham in the County of Durham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The land is situated in the City of Durham, County of Durham, State of North Carolina, as follows: BEING all of Lot 793 in Brightleaf at the Park, Phase 3 as shown on plat recorded in Plat Book 195, Pages 109-111, Durham County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3326 Prospect Parkway, Durham, North Carolina. Commonly Known As: 3326 Prospect Pkwy, Durham, NC 27703 219197/0850-04-72-1503 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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on August 19, 2026 at 1:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 5882-28-9489 ADDRESS: 3917 WESTRIDGE MEADOW CIR CLEMMONS, NC 27012 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): BAILEY INGRAM THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF FORSYTH, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK RE 3720, PAGE 31, AS FOLLOWS: BEING KNOWN AND DESIGNATED AS UNIT NUMBER 21-A, PHASE VI, AS SHOWN ON THE PLAT ENTITLED WESTRIDGE CONDOMINIUMS, AS RECORDED IN CONDOMINIUM PLAT BOOK 4, PAGE 130-131, FORSYTH COUNTY REGISTRY AND TOGETHER WITH AN UNDIVIDED 2.0833% FEE SIMPLE INTEREST IN AND TO THE COMMON AREA SHOWN ON SAID PLAT. TOGETHER WITH ALL RIGHTS, EASEMENTS AND APPURTENANCES THERETO BELONGING, AS SET FORTH IN DEED BOOK 1769, PAGE 2672. 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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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
BEGINNING at a point located in the eastern margin of the right-of-way of Garrett Road (NC 751) (a 60’ public right-of-way), said beginning point being the southwestern corner of the property of Terrell C. Griffitts (now or formerly) as described in Deed Book 1302, Page 14, Durham County Registry; thence with the southern boundary of said Terrell C. Griffitts the following two (2) courses and distances: (1) N. 89-52-09 E. 160.56 feet to an existing iron pipe, and (2) S. 86-48-05 E. 99.36 feet to an existing axle located in the southwest corner of the property of JBW Tridurham Properties, Inc. (now or formerly) as described in Deed Book 4084, Page 473, Durham County Registry; thence with the southern boundary of said JBW Tridurham Properties, Inc. S. 88-3251 E. 246.03 feet to an existing iron pipe located in the southwest corner of the property of Harris Teeter Properties, LLC (now or formerly) as described in Book 4033, Page 676, Durham County Registry; thence with the southern boundary of said Harris Teeter Properties, LLC S. 88-30-30 E. 185.81 feet to an existing iron pipe located in the northwest corner of the property of United States of America (now or formerly) as described in Deed Book 440, Page 319, Durham County Registry; thence with the western boundary of said United States of America the following two (2) courses and distances: (1) S. 00-52-08 E. 642.85 feet to an existing iron pin, and (2) S. 43-10-58 W. 856.76 feet to an existing iron pipe located in the eastern margin of the right-of-way of the above-referenced Garrett Road; thence with the eastern margin of the right-of-way of said Garrett Road the following two (2) courses and distances: (1) N. 04-53-10 W. 724.12 feet to a point, and (2) N. 05-2432 W. 564.78 feet to the Point or Place of Beginning, containing approximately 14.539 acres.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm, LLP P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 31592 - 164890
Sarah A. Waldron or Terrass Scott Misher, Esq ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorneys for the Substitute Trustee 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Telephone: (470) 321-7112
26-125532
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm, LLP P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 23172 - 122837
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 effective date of the termination. THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection. IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY. Sarah A. Waldron or Terrass Scott Misher, Esq ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorneys for the Substitute Trustee 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Telephone: (470) 321-7112
B9
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
FORSYTH 25-123706 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FORSYTH COUNTY 26SP000057-330 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY DEBRA LYNN COLEMAN TRUST OF 2010 DATED JUNE 4, 2010 AS AMENDED AND RESTATED NOVEMBER 30, 2017 DATED AUGUST 11, 2021 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 3633 AT PAGE 1015 IN THE FORSYTH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000249-330 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Justin Braswell and Caitlin Braswell (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Justin Braswell) to The Law Offices of Randall L Perry PLLC, Trustee(s), dated October 27, 2022, and recorded in Book No. RE 3725, at Page 2290 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 Office 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:00 PM on August 12, 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: Beginning at an iron in the eastern right-ofway line of Merry Dale Drive, said iron being the northwest corner of property owned by
IREDELL NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000207-480 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Jeffrey Whaley and Stephanie Whaley (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Stephanie Whaley) to Tina Sorum, Trustee(s), dated December 9, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 2965, 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 Office 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Statesville, Iredell County, North
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000132-480 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Dennis Scott Bolding and Rosenda Bolding (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Dennis Scott Bolding and Rosenda Bolding) to Tracey Reynolds Attorney at Law, Trustee(s), dated July 1, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 2931, at Page 1096 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 Office 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 offer 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 August 20, 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: Tract 1 Beginning at an existing iron rod marking the Northwestern corner of Wesley Boyd Weston and wife, as described in Deed Book 921, at Page 1789 in the line of Erica Leigh Weston as described in Deed Book 1122, at Page 561, and runs from the beginning with the line of said Wesley Boyd Weston and wife, South 08 degrees 20 minutes 43 seconds West 388.54 feet to an existing iron rod, the Southwestern corner of Wesley Boyd Weston and wife, on the Northern margin of Pasture Drive as described in Plat Book 53, at Page 58; thence with a new line, North 02 degrees 35 minutes 45 seconds West 396.53 feet to an existing rod, corner of Erica Leigh Weston; thence with the line of said Erica Leigh Weston, South 81 degrees
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000279-480 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 April 4, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 2910, at Page 2289 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 Office 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Statesville, Iredell County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00
deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Forsyth County courthouse at 11:00AM on August 20, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Forsyth County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Debra Lynn Coleman Trust of 2010 dated June 4, 2010 as Amended and restated November 30, 2017, dated August 11, 2021 to secure the original principal amount of $367,500.00, and recorded in Book 3633 at Page 1015 of the Forsyth County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified 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: 105 Bradford Place Lane, Lewisville, NC 27023
Tax Parcel ID: 5895-07-5136.000 Present Record Owners: Debra Lynn Coleman Trust of 2010 dated June 4, 2010 as amended and restated November 30, 2017 The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Debra Lynn Coleman Trust of 2010 dated June 4, 2010 as amended and restated November 30, 2017. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of
the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is May 22, 2026. __________________ ___________________ Ellen Wiggins N.C. State Bar No. #55909 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cliff Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By:
A. H. Anders as described deed recorded in Book 824, Page 248, Forsyth County Registry; thence from said beginning point, North 81 deg. 36’ 23” West 23.94 feet to a point in the pavement of Merry Dale Drive; thence along a line within the pavement of Merry Dale Drive, North 24 deg. 48’ 30” East 82.43 feet to a point; thence South 63 deg. 14’ 42” East 20.91 feet to a point in the eastern right-of-way line of Merry Dale Drive; thence on a new line the four (4) following courses and distances, to-wit: South 63 deg. 14’ 42” East 34.96 feet to a point, North 89 deg. 19’ 33” East 126.55 feet to a point, North 34 deg. 14’ 48” East 40.32 feet to a point, and North 65 deg. 22’ 42” East 294.21 feet to an iron in the west line of property owned by Harry A. Epperson, Jr. as described in deed recorded in Book 1013, Page 837, Forsyth County Registry; thence along Epperson’s west line the five (5) following courses and distances, to-wit: South 09 deg. 31’ 57” West 52.32 feet to an iron, South 32 deg. 45’ 38” West 66.31 feet to an iron, South 57 deg. 18’ 37” West 65.96 feet to an iron, South 33 deg. 17’ 50” West 83.38 feet to an iron, and South 00 deg. 18’ 52” East 47.00 feet to a point, corner with the aforementioned Anders’ property; thence along Anders’ north line, North 81 deg. 36’ 23” West 335.06 feet to the point and place of beginning containing 1.077 acres, more or less, all according to survey of Larry L. Callahan dated May 11, 1992. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 5795 Merry Dale
Drive, Winston Salem, North Carolina.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on August 20, 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: Being all of Lot 369 of Final Plat of Gambill Forest, Phase 1, Map 4, as same is shown on map thereof recorded in Map Book 76 at Pages 50-52, in the Iredell County, North Carolina Public Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 193 Abersham Drive, Mooresville, North Carolina. Property Address: 193 Abersham Drive, Mooresville, NC 28115 Parcel ID: 4677-13-2987
subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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
03 minutes 18 seconds East 75.27 feet to the point of beginning, containing 0.336 acre, more or less. Tract 2 Beginning at an existing iron rod marking a corner of Elizabeth Ann West Rumple as described in Deed Book 791, at Page 422, and the Northeastern corner of Ashley G. Weston as described in Deed Book 1167, at Page 411, and runs from the beginning with two lines of Ashley G. Weston; North 87 degrees 42 minutes 56 seconds West 168.74 feet to an existing iron rod, and South 54 degrees 50 minutes 17 seconds West 81.01 feet to an iron rod set in the line of Ashley G Weston; thence with a new line, North 02 degrees 11 minutes 42 seconds West 123.99 feet to an iron rod set on the Southern margin of the right of way of Pasture Drive as shown on a map recorded in Plat Book 53, Page 58; thence with the Southern margin of the right of way of Pasture Drive, North 89 degrees 34 minutes 09 seconds East 192.67 feet to an existing iron rod; thence continuing with the Southern margin of the right of way of said Pasture Drive and following a curve to the left having a radius of 738.17 feet, an arc length 84. 78 feet and a chord bearing a distance of North 86 degrees 16 minutes 43 seconds East 84.73 feet to an iron rod set; thence with a new line, South 08 degrees 21 minutes 25 seconds West 92.87 feet to an iron rod set in the line of Elizabeth Ann Weston Rumple; thence with the new line of said Rumple, North 87 degrees 42 minutes 56 seconds West 24.16 feet to the point of beginning, containing 0.540 acres, more or less. Tract 3 Beginning at a p.k. nail set in the center of Secondary Road No. 1907, known as Chipley Ford Road, which point is the corner of Helen W. Gibson and is located North 47 degrees 36 minutes 16 seconds West 474.08 feet from the point where the center of Secondary Road No. 1907 intersects the center of Secondary Road No. 1911, and runs. From the beginning with the line of said Helen W. Gibson, as described in Deed Book 813, Page 321, South 49 degrees 28 minutes 34 seconds West 888.28 feet to
an iron pin set, common corners of Helen W. Gibson and W. Gilbert Weston and wife; thence with fourteen (14) new lines of W. Gilbert West and wife as follows: (1) South 31 degrees 29 minutes 10 seconds West 132.41 feet to an iron pin set, (2) South 59 degrees 22 minutes 35 seconds West 192.20 feet to an iron pin set, (3) North 72 degrees 47 minutes 15 seconds West 93.32 feet to an iron pin set, (4) North 17 degrees 12 minutes 45 seconds East 15.00 feet to an iron pin set, (5) North 72 degrees 47 minutes 15 seconds West 63.58 feet to an existing iron pin, (6) South 67 degrees 59 minutes 10 seconds West 141.94 feet to an existing iron pin, (7) South 57 degrees 48 minutes 50 seconds West 89.94 feet to an iron pin set, (8) North 09 degrees 59 minutes 28 seconds East 403.70 feet to an iron pin set, which point is located South 22 degrees 42 minutes 06 seconds West 102.97 feet from an existing iron pin marking the Southwestern corner of William J. Weston, (9) South 80 degrees 00 minutes seconds East 279.85 feet to an iron pin set, (10) South 09 degrees 59 minutes 28 seconds West 264. 73 feet to an iron pin set, (11) South 72 degrees 47 minutes 15 seconds East 51.92 feet to an iron pin set, (12) North 59 degrees 22 minutes 35 seconds East 171.44 feet to an iron pin set, (13) North 31 degrees 29 minutes 10 seconds East 129.71 feet to an iron pin set, and (14) North 49 degrees 28 minutes, 34 seconds East 883.49 feet to a p.k. nail set in the center of Secondary Road No. 1907; thence with the center of said Secondary Road, South 58 degrees 09 minutes 24 seconds East 31.48 feet to the point of beginning, containing 2.875 acres, more or less, according to a map prepared by Sharpe Surveying Company, dated June 8, 1994. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 170 Pasture Drive, Statesville, North Carolina. Derivation: This being the identical property conveyed to Dennis S. Bolding and wife, Rosenda Bolding by deed of Karen R. Parlier, divorced dated 06/05/2018, and recorded 06/07/2018, in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Iredell County, North Carolina
Book 2559, Page 2151.
remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
AM on August 20, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Statesville in the County of Iredell, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot No. Forty-Two (42) of “Brookmeade II Subdivision” as the same is platted, planned and recorded in Plat Book 7 at Page 52, Iredell County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3307 Lancaster Drive, Statesville, North Carolina. Also known as 3307 Lancaster Drive, Statesville, NC 28625 Parcel ID: 4765214474.000
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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
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.
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
SAVE AND EXCEPT that 0.040 acre portion that was conveyed by deed to the North Carolina Department of Transportation recorded in Deed Book 1747, Page 3963, Forsyth County Registry. Property Address: 5795 Merry Dale Drive Winston-Salem, NC 27105 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.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole
25-123706
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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 20358 - 161706
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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 31589 - 164870
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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 30839 - 160299
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 effective 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 effective date of the termination. 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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 29004 - 148511
B10
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
IREDELL NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000278-480 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 Christopher Walker, Trustee(s), dated December 8, 2021, and recorded in Book No. 2878, at Page 2041 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 Office 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 offer for sale at the courthouse
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, IREDELL COUNTY 25 SP001515-480 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Billy Dison and Leigh Dison, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $151,600.84, to Equity One, Incorporated d/b/a, Equity One Mortgage Services, Inc., Mortgagee, dated July 25th, 2007 and recorded on July 26th, 2007 in Book 1870, Page 1709, Iredell 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 Office of the Register of Deeds of 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Iredell County, North
AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP001487-480 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Orlee Joel Ortez, Daisy Cardenas Santiago and Alicia Felix (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Alicia Felix and Orlee Ortez and Alicia Felix and Daisy Cardenas Santiago) to Heather Lovier, Trustee(s), dated February 28, 2024, and recorded in Book No. 3046, at Page 1582 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 Office 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Statesville, Iredell County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:30 PM on August 20, 2026 and will sell to
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, IREDELL COUNTY 26SP000230-480 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Helmsman Homes, LLC, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $339,500.00, to RFLF 7, LLC, Mortgagee, dated April 13th, 2023 and recorded on April 14th, 2023 in Book 2986, Page 831, Iredell 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 Office of the Register of Deeds of 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
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 25SP001536-480 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by RAFAEL AGUILERA, GUADALUPE AGUILERA, JOSUE AGUILERA AND AMANDA PRIOR dated December 19, 2022 in the amount of $423,723.00 and recorded in Book 2965, Page 1942 of the Iredell 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 Official Records of Iredell County, North Carolina, in Book 3177, Page 1558, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Iredell County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on August 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell
JOHNSTON 25-123242 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION JOHNSTON COUNTY 25SP000596-500 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY KATHERINE REBOREDO AND MANUEL ARMANDO MANZANO DATED FEBRUARY 21, 2025 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 6829 AT PAGE 704 IN THE JOHNSTON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in
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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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,
Carolina, at 2:00 PM on August 18th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in Iredell County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 112 of Tara`s Trace Phase II Map 1 as shown on map thereof recorded in Map Book 42 Page 30 in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Iredell County which recorded map is incorporated herein by reference and made a part of this description. Address: 2239 Ballingarry Dr.; Statesville, NC 28677 Tax Map or Parcel ID No.: 4755-21-8503. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 2239 Ballingarry Drive, Statesville, NC 28625 Tax ID: 4755-21-8503 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-five 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 five 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 certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 Billy Dison and Leigh Dison. 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 effective 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 §4521.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of termination. If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy
petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Substitute Trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.
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: Property Address: 118 Hampshire Drive, Mooresville, NC 28115 Property description: Being all of Lot No. Thirteen (13) of the Hampshires, Phase II Subdivision as the same is platted, planned and recorded in Plat Book 37 at Pages 61-62 of the Iredell County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 118 Hampshire Drive, Mooresville, North Carolina.
A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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.
Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Iredell County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on August 11th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Being all of Lot 31 Sanders Ridge Subdivision, Phase 1, Map 3, as the same is platted, planned, and recorded in Plat Book 72, at Page 101, in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Iredell County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 183 Sugar Hill Road, Troutman, NC 28166 Tax ID: 4750-73-8810.000 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-five 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 five 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 certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 Helmsman Homes, LLC, a
North Carolina Limited Liability Company. 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 effective 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 §4521.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of termination. If the Trustee is
unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Substitute Trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee David Neill, NCSB #23396 McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC Attorney for Anchor Trustee Services, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) dneill@mtglaw.com
to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Iredell, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 4750-31-1392.000 ADDRESS: 136 FORBES LN TROUTMAN, NC 28166 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): RAFAEL AGUILERA, GUADALUPE AGUILERA, JOSUE AGUILERA AND AMANDA PRIOR THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF IREDELL, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 2965, PAGE 1942, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 97 OF SUTTERS MILL II, PHASE 2, AS SAME IS SHOWN ON MAP THEREOF RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 74 AT PAGE 147, IREDELL COUNTY REGISTRY. BEING THE SAME PROPERTY CONVEYED TO THE BORROWER(S) HEREIN BY DEED RECORDED CONTEMPORANEOUSLY HEREWITH. PARCEL #: 4750-31-1392 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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination. THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection. IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY.
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 August 19, 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 Katherine Reboredo and Manuel Armando Manzano, dated February 21, 2025 to secure the original principal amount of $201,286.00, and recorded in Book 6829 at Page 704 of the Johnston County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified 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: 100 Linda Street, Princeton, NC 27569 Tax Parcel ID:
04016195C Present Record Owners: Katherine Reboredo and Manuel Armando Manzano The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Katherine Reboredo and Manuel Armando Manzano. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the
purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is July 8, 2026. __________________ ___________________ Ellen Wiggins N.C. State Bar No. #55909 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cliff Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By:
door in Statesville, Iredell County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on August 20, 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: The Land is described as follows: Being all of Lots Nos. Forty - Nine (49) and Fifty (50) of Deer Crossing, Phase IV, as the same is platted, planned and recorded in Plat Book 44, Pages 127 and 128, Iredell County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 145 Sundance Circle, Statesville, North Carolina and 141 Sundance Circle, Statesville, North Carolina. Also known as 145 Sundance Circle, Statesville, NC 28625 Parcel ID: 4747297547.000 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.
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.
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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 29000 - 148492
Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee By: January N. Taylor, NCSB #33512 David Neill, NCSB #23396 Olivia S. Sings, NCSB# 54991 McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC Attorney for Anchor Trustee Services, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) jtaylor@mtglaw.com dneill@mtglaw.com osings@mtglaw.com 24-000890-02
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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 28479 - 145650
Sarah A. Waldron or Terrass Scott Misher, Esq ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorneys for the Substitute Trustee 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Telephone: (470) 321-7112
25-123242
B11
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
JOHNSTON NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000326-500 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Mary-Leigh Hamilton and Justin Woodruff (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Mary-Leigh Hamilton and Justin Woodruff) to Tina Sorum, Trustee(s), dated December 6, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 6390, at Page 399 in Johnston County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Smithfield, Johnston
26SP000072-500 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, JOHNSTON COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by James Leftdwrige and Mary Leftdwrige to Getter Law Offices, Trustee(s), which was dated January 25, 2016 and recorded on February 29, 2016 in Book 4725 at Page 665, Johnston 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 offer 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 August 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Johnston County, North Carolina, to wit:
26SP000065-500 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, JOHNSTON COUNTY
County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on August 18, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Smithfield in the County of Johnston, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 45, Section 1, Crestwood Acres Subdivision, as shown on plat by Ragsdale Engineers, dated August 29, 1966 and recorded in Plat Book 12, Page 141, Johnston County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 213 West Stevens Street, Smithfield, 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 residential
Beginning at a stake at the intersection of the Wilson Mills Highway and Brevard Street in the Town of Selma, North Carolina and runs N 38 deg E 152.2 feet to a stake, corner of Lot #20; thence along the line of lot #20 S 52 deg E 52.1 feet to a stake, corner of Lot #19; thence along a line parallel with Brevard Street S 38 deg W 152.2 feet to a stake in the property line of the Wilson’s Mills highway; thence along said highway N 52 deg W 52.1 feet to the point of beginning and being all of Lots #11 and #12 and the western portion of lot #13 of a development known as High School View subdivision in Selma North Carolina as shown on plat recorded in Plat Book 4, page 247, Johnston County Registry. See deeds duly recorded in Book 479, page 2 and Book 600, page 108, Johnston County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 612 W Noble St, Selma, NC 27576. A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be
County, North Carolina, to wit: Lying and being in the Clayton Township, Johnston County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows:
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Yvette Lanier to Moore & Alphin, PLLC., Trustee(s), which was dated September 19, 2022 and recorded on September 19, 2022 in Book 6344 at Page 240, Johnston County Registry, North Carolina.
All of Lot 8, in Kyli Knolls, as shown on a plat thereof recorded in Plat Book 94, Pages 89-90, Johnston County Registry, reference to which map reference is hereby made for a more particular description.
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 offer 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 August 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Johnston
PIN/PARCEL NO .: 05G03009R
NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF JOHNSTON GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26CV000464-500 MidFirst Bank, Plaintiff, v. Joshua N Clark, Jennifer B Clark, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Defendant(s).
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP000313-500 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Ian M. Grady and Lydia A. O’KeefeGrady (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Lydia A. O’Keefe-Grady) to Cynthia Porterfield, Trustee(s), dated February 19, 2021, and recorded in Book No. 5846, at Page 683 in Johnston County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Smithfield, Johnston County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on August 18, 2026 and will sell
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24SP000039-500 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Magdalena A. Cebula (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Magdalena A. Cebula) to Moore & Alphin, PLLC, Trustee(s), dated July 28, 2017, and recorded in Book No. 4999, at Page 362 in Johnston County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on October 8, 2021, in Book No. 6074, at Page 765 , 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 Office 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Smithfield, Johnston County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on August 18, 2026 and will sell to the
Property Way,
Address: Clayton,
185 NC
Thumper 27520
Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 185 Thumper Way, Clayton, NC 27520. A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five 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
NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the Order for Judicial Sale, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Johnston County courthouse at 12:00 PM on August 11, 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 by Joshua N Clark; Jennifer B Clark, dated October 10, 2007 to secure the original principal amount of $78,657.00, and recorded in Book No. 3435, at Page 975 of the Johnston County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of
to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Clayton in the County of Johnston, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 70 of Poplar Creek Subdivision, Phase 2, as shown on that map recorded in Plat Book 90, Pages 176-178 of the Johnston County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 136 Poplar Drive, Clayton, 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 residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you
highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Four Oaks in the County of Johnston, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Lying and being in the Town of Four Oaks, Ingrams Township, JOHNSTON County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: All of Lot 9 in Meadow Hills Subdivision, as shown on a map recorded in Plat Book 57, Pages 263-265, JOHNSTON County Registry, to which map reference is hereby made for a more particular description. See also Plat Book 55, Page 490, Johnston County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 251 Meadow Hills Drive, Four Oaks, North Carolina. Property Address: 251 Meadow Hills Drive, Four Oaks, NC 27524 Tax ID # 08I10049L 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
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
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.
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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.
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”.
Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 All Lawful Heirs of James Leftdwrige. An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor
immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 All Lawful Heirs of Yvette Lanier. 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
Trust may be modified 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: Sunray Dr, Clayton, NC 27520 Tax Parcel ID: 17I07005P
108
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 five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00),
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
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 effective 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 effective date of the termination. Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the
whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 may be issued in favor of the
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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 31960 - 167266
If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing.
File No.: 26-00692-FC01
confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 26-01515-FC01
purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is 30th day of June, 2026. Grady I. Ingle, NC State Bar No. 16692 Attorney for Comissioner, Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty
dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm, LLP P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 26360 - 134122
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm, LLP P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 11046 - 86335
B12
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
NEW HANOVER NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, NEW HANOVER COUNTY 26 SP 000108-640 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Stephanie Shumate, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $202,912.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as beneficiary, as nominee for Countrywide Home Loans, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 31st, 2006 and recorded on September 1st, 2006 in Book 5074, Page 1068, New Hanover 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 Office
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 26SP000131-640 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by RONALD BONEY dated October 26, 2006 in the amount of $262,359.05 and recorded in Book 5097, Page 1720 of the New Hanover 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 Official Records of New Hanover County, North Carolina, in Book 6829, Page 1659, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on August 19, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S):
20SP000203-640
NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY
NEW
HANOVER
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Scott H. Cook & Michele C. Cook a/k/a Michelle Cook to PBRE, Inc., Trustee(s), which was dated January 19, 2006 and recorded on January 20, 2006 in Book 4968 at Page 316, New Hanover 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 offer 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 August 10, 2026 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in New Hanover
25SP001602-640 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY
NEW
of Forty-five 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 five 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 certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 Stephanie C. Shuemate a/k/a Stephanie Shumate. 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.
R03500-005-544-000 ADDRESS: 2833 WHITE RD WILMINGTON, NC 28411 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): RONALD BONEY THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 5097, PAGE 1720, AS FOLLOWS: STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COCUNTY OF NEW HANOVER, AND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: ALL THAT CERTAIN PARCEL OF LAND IN , NEW HANOVER COUNTY, STATE OF NC, AS MORE FULLY DESCRIBED IN BOOK 3217 PAGE 803 ID# R03500-005-544-000, BEING KNOWN AND DESIGNATED AS LOT 33, SECTION 3 POTOMAC WOODS, FILED IN MAP BOOK 41 AT PAGE 316. BEING THE SAME PROPERTY CONVEYED BY FEE SIMPLE DEED FROM SOUTHERN HOMEBUILDERS, INC. BY DALE B. COVIL, VICE PRESIDENT TO RONALD BONEY AND PHYLLIS A BRYANT BONEY HUSBAND AND WIFE, DATED 02/28/2002 RECORDED ON 02/28/2002 IN BOOK 3217, PAGE 803 IN NEW HANOVER COUNTY RECORDS, STATE OF NC.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination. THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection.
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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.
PARCEL ID NUMBER: R03500-005-544000 ALSO KNOWN AS: 2833 WHITE RD, WILMINGTON, NC 28411 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion,
County, North Carolina, to wit:
AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
HANOVER
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Steven W. Hudson and Sherry L. Hudson to Fiserv Fulfillment Services, Inc., Trustee(s), which was dated February 28, 2008 and recorded on March 18, 2008 in Book 5291 at Page 2587, New Hanover 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 offer 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 August 10, 2026 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in New Hanover
ONSLOW NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000234-660 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Jaron Turnbow and Marissa M. Turnbow (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Jaron Turnbow and Marissa M. Turnbow) to Pamela S. Cox, Trustee(s), dated May 21, 2025, and recorded in Book No. 6363, at Page 705 in Onslow 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 Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary
not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Substitute Trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.
of the Register of Deeds of New Hanover County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in New Hanover County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on August 20th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Lot 25, Section 2, Putnam Run at West Bay Estates as shown on plat recorded in Map Book/Cabinet 49, Page 132, New Hanover County Registry. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 346 Putnam Drive, Wilmington, NC 28411 Tax ID: R04400-001-252-000 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
BEING all of Lot 101R, Section One of PARKSIDE AT MAYFAIRE asmoreparticularly shown on that revision map of Parkside at Mayfaire recorded in Map Book 46 at Page 9 of the New Hanover County Registry. SUBJECT to that Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, Easements and Restrictions of Mayfaire recorded in Book 3772 at Page 1 of the New Hanover Registry and re-recorded in Book 3788 at Page 1 of the New Hanover County Registry, that Supplemental Declaration and Amendment of Covenants, Conditions, Easements and Restrictions for Mayfaire recorded in Book 3997 at Page 850 of the New Hanover County Registry and that Supplemental Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, Easements and Restrictions for Mayfaire recorded in Book 4119 at Page 60 of the New Hanover County Registry, and that Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions for Parkside at Mayfaire, Section One, recorded in Book 4294 at Page 770 of the New Hanover County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 6520 Brevard Dr, Wilmington, NC 28405.
County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING ALL OF LOT 9, PHASE 1, KENSINGTON PLACE, AS SHOWN ON MAP RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 34 AT PAGE 48 OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY REGISTRY, REFERENCE TO WHICH MAP IS HEREBY MADE FOR A MORE COMPLETE DESCRIPTION. BEING THE SAME PROPERTY CONVEYED TO STEVEN W HUDSON AND WIFE, SHERRY L HUDSON BY DEED FROM PAUL G DURANT AND WIFE, PATRICIA J DURANT RECORDED 07/24/1998 IN DEED BOOK 2405 PAGE 764, IN THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OFFICE OF NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 6108 Dorsett Place, Wilmington, NC 28403. A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five 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
location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on August 12, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 163 as shown on that plat entitled, “Paradise Point, Section III at Onslow Bay” prepared by Parker & Associates, Inc., dated August 12, 2019, and recorded in Map Book 77, Page 37, Onslow County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 287 Crossroads Store Drive, Jacksonville, North Carolina. Subject to Restrictive Covenants recorded in Book 4537, Page 621; Book 5041, Page 715, Onslow County Registry. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be 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
A certified check only (no personal checks) of five 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 offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 Scott Cook and wife, Michelle Cook.
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 offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 Steven W. Hudson and wife, Sherry L. Hudson.
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 effective 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 §4521.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of termination. If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are
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”.
Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee By: January N. Taylor, NCSB #33512 David Neill, NCSB #23396 Olivia S. Sings, NCSB# 54991 McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC Attorney for Anchor Trustee Services, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) jtaylor@mtglaw.com dneill@mtglaw.com osings@mtglaw.com 24-001763-02
IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY. Sarah A. Waldron or Terrass Scott Misher, Esq ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorneys for the Substitute Trustee 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Telephone: (470) 321-7112
If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988
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
File No.: 20-04739-FC01
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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.
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”.
Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988
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
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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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
If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing.
File No.: 18-22355-FC02
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 effective 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 effective date of the termination. 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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 31642 - 165274
B13
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
ONSLOW NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000150-660 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by William David Romero and Ezekiel Dyer (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): William David Romero and Ezekiel Dyer) to Brock and Scott, Trustee(s), dated November 9, 2024, and recorded in Book No. 6258, at Page 893 in Onslow 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 Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000124-660 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Justin A. Lange (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Justin A. Lange) to Hutchens Law Firm, Trustee(s), dated October 3, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 6043, at Page 471 in Onslow 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 Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on August 12, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Richlands in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows:
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA ONSLOW COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FILE NO. 25CV006872-660
10:00 AM on August 12, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Situated in the City of Jacksonville, Jacksonville Township, Onslow County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows BEING all of Lot Number 28, Block A, of Brynn Marr, Section 1, as shown on a map recorded in Map Book 10, Page 31, Onslow County Registry Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 504 Greenbriar Drive, Jacksonville, North Carolina. Being the same property as conveyed from Michael J Friend and wife, Carmen Friend to William David Romero, married as set forth in Deed Book 5962 Page 974 dated 04/20/2023, recorded 05/12/2023, ONSLOW County, NORTH CAROLINA Parcel ID 029976 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
Beginning at an iron stake in the southerly right of way line of State Road No. 1249, said point of beginning being the Potter northwest corner and located South 32 degrees 30 minutes East 30.00 feet from the centerline of said road, said point in centerline being situate in a southwesterly direction 557.50 feet from the centerline of State Road No. 1001 when measured along the centerline of State Road No. 1249; running thence from said point of beginning along and with the Potter line South 32 degree 30 minutes East 105.00 feet to an iron stake; thence South 57 Degrees 30 minutes West 210.00 feet to an iron stake; thence North 32 degrees 30 minutes West 105.00 feet to an iron stake in the southerly right of way of State Road No. 1249; running thence along and with the southerly right of way line of State Road No. 1249 North 57 degrees 30 minutes East 210.00 feet to the point of beginning. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 125 Oliver Cooper Road, Richlands, 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
AARON M. HARRISON, and Spouse of, if any; KEITH DARWIN HARRISON, and Spouse of, if any; DEBORAH L. HARRISON, and Spouse of, if any; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; and SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. Substitute Trustee; Defendants.
UMB BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIAITION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR LVS TITLE TRUST XIII,
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION
Plaintiff, v.
any
RANDOLPH 25-123745 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION RANDOLPH COUNTY 25SP000366-750 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY ARCHIE F. EMORY AND MARY L. EMORY DATED OCTOBER 17, 2003 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1840 AT PAGE 1723 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced
UNION AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000133-890 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Justin Shirlen and Mackenzie Jordan Isaman (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Justin Shirlen and Mackenzie Jordan Isaman) to First Choice Settlement, LLC, Trustee(s), dated December 1, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 08821, at Page 0565 in Union 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 Office of the Register of Deeds Union County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the Judicial Center in Monroe, Union County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:00
25-123074 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION UNION COUNTY 26SP000385-890 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MARY ANN SURDI DATED MAY 17, 2023 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 8713 AT PAGE 91 IN THE UNION COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder
be
TO:
Aaron M. Harrison Spouse of Aaron M. Harrison, if
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: The Plaintiff in the above entitled action has filed with the Clerk of Superior Court’s office of Onslow County, North Carolina, a civil action concerning one parcel of real property located at 432 Harris Creek Road, Jacksonville, North Carolina 28540. You are required to make defense to such pleading no later than September 8, 2026 (40 days from date of first publication) and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.
HUTCHENS LAW FIRM LLP By: __/s/: Bryce Ashby_____ Claire Collins Dickerhoff N.C. State Bar No. 44306 Bryce Ashby N.C. State Bar No. 61688 Post Office Box 2505 Fayetteville, NC 28302 Telephone: (910) 864-6888 Facsimile: (910) 864-6848 Claire.dickerhoff@hutchenslawfirm.com Bryce.ashby@hutchenslawfirm.com Attorneys for Plaintiff
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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 30917 - 160621
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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 30916 - 160617
THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection. IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY
This the 27th day of July 2026.
Dates of Publication: July 30, 2026; August 6, 2026; and August 13, 2026.
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 Randolph County courthouse at 11:00AM on August 20, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Randolph County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Archie F. Emory and Mary L. Emory, dated October 17, 2003 to secure the original principal amount of $55,000.00, and recorded in Book 1840 at Page 1723 of the Randolph County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified 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: 519
Rockett Road, Randleman, NC 27317 Tax Parcel ID: 7758762697 Present Record Owners: The Heirs of Archie F. Emory The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Archie F. Emory. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be
advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is June 26, 2026. __________________ ___________________ Ellen Wiggins N.C. State Bar No. #55909 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cliff Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By:
PM on August 20, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Monroe in the County of Union, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The land referred to herein below is situated in the County of Union, State of North Carolina, and is described as follows: Being all of Lot 4 of the Julia L. Baucom estate lands, containing 1.08 acres, and A 20” road and driveway Easement in common with Lots 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 as shown on Plat which is recorded in Plat Cabinet I, file 747, Union County, North Carolina public registry, reference to which is made for a more perfect and complete description of said Lot and Easement. the use of said Easement is in consideration of the rights and obligations set forth in the Road Maintenance Agreement. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3709 Haigler Road, Monroe, North Carolina. Manufactured/Mobile Home: Name: Cmh/Schutt Model No.: Rocketeer New/Used/Year: 2015 Serial No.: ROC728796NCAB Length and Width: N/A APN: 99672975
provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.
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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 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 August 18, 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 Mary Ann Surdi, dated May 17, 2023 to secure the original principal amount of $294,394.00, and recorded in Book 8713 at Page 91 of the Union County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified 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: 8216 Poplar Grove Circle, Waxhaw, NC 28173 Tax Parcel ID: 05087157 Present Record Owners:
The Estate of Mary Ann Surdi The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Estate of Mary Ann Surdi. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the
purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is July 29, 2026. __________________ ___________________ Ellen Wiggins N.C. State Bar No. #55909 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cliff Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By:
25-123745
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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 30376 - 157516
25-123074
B14
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
UNION 25-123525 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION UNION COUNTY 25SP000760-890 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY CAMILLE R. DIXON DATED JUNE 16, 2010 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 5348 AT PAGE 40 IN THE UNION COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in
WAKE 26SP001154-910 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 Tyrone Dunston and Justine Dunston a/k/a J. Dunston to Shoaf Law Firm, P.A., Trustee(s), which was dated September 23, 2022 and recorded on September 28, 2022 in Book 19158 at Page 1474, Wake County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer 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
26-125736 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 26SP001107-910 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JACQUELINE DIANE JONES DATED MARCH 14, 2022 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 18963 AT PAGE 1306 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will
16-084240 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 16SP002399-910 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY WILLIAM F. HARDWICK, III AND ANGELA DAVIS HARDWICK DATED OCTOBER 4, 2006 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 12205 AT PAGE 212 AND MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED ON JULY 2, 2014 AT BOOK 15709, PAGE 911 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP002538-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Squared Corners Construction LLC, a North Carolina Limited Liability Company (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Squared Corners Construction LLC, a North Carolina Limited Liability Company) to Stephen Bryan Radford, Trustee(s), dated March 31, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 019299, at Page 00384 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 Office 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 offer for sale at the Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000864-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Jillian F. Parisi (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Jillian F. Parisi) to Blue Door Homes LLC, A Trust, Trustee(s), dated April 30, 2019, and recorded in Book No. 017433, at Page 00854 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 Office 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 offer 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 August 10, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Cary in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Condominium Unit 103-1C, Phase II, Building 2, in the Chesapeake Landing Condominiums, located in or near the Town of Cary, Wake County, North
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 August 20, 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 Camille R. Dixon, dated June 16, 2010 to secure the original principal amount of $213,740.00, and recorded in Book 5348 at Page 40 of the Union County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified 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: 8202 Stourhead Gardens Lane, Waxhaw, NC 28173
Tax Parcel ID: 06165305 Present Record Owners: Camille Rashon Dixon The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Camille Rashon Dixon. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of
the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is June 22, 2026. __________________ ___________________ Ellen Wiggins N.C. State Bar No. #55909 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cliff Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By:
on August 19, 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:
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.
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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.
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”.
Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988
Lying and being in the Town of Rolesville, Wake County, North Carolina and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 9 as shown on a map entitled “Recombination/Subdivision Plat for Hampton Pointe - Phase One for Hampton Pointe Associates, LLC,” prepared by Russell K. Elingburg, Professional Land Surveyor of Elingburg Land Survey Co., P.A., and recorded in Book of Maps 2004, Pages 342-344 and re-recorded in Book of Maps 2005, Pages 179-181, Wake County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 906 Morning Still Ct, Rolesville, NC 27571.
Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered 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 offered 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 Tyrone Dunston and Justine Dunston.
25-123525
If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing.
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
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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the
expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake County courthouse at 11:00AM on August 20, 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 Jacqueline Diane Jones, dated March 14, 2022 to secure the original principal amount of $200,000.00, and recorded in Book 18963 at Page 1306 of the Wake County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified 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: 103 Nowell Street, Wendell, NC 27591 Tax Parcel ID: 0095915 Present Record Owners: Jacqueline Diane Jones
The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Jacqueline Diane Jones. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid
or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was
renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is July 7, 2026. __________________ ___________________ Ellen Wiggins N.C. State Bar No. #55909 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee ewiggins@logs.com LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cliff Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By:
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 11:00AM on August 20, 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 William F. Hardwick, III and Angela Davis Hardwick, dated October 4, 2006 to secure the original principal amount of $359,176.00, and recorded in Book 12205 at Page 212 of the Wake County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified 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: 399 Virginia Water Drive, Rolesville, NC 27571 Tax Parcel ID: 0332406 Present Record Owners:
William Hardwick, III and Angela Davis Hardwick The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are William Hardwick, III and Angela Davis Hardwick. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be
advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is June 18, 2026. __________________ ___________________ Ellen Wiggins N.C. State Bar No. #55909 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee Jpurser@logs.com ewiggins@logs.com LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cliff Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By:
location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on August 10, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Raleigh in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of that 2.98 aces, on Mayridge Road (should be Mayridge Lane), as shown on that map entitled “Survey for Squared Corners Construction, LLC, Saint Marys Twp., Wake County, NC”, dated October 19, 2017 by R.S. Jones & Associates, Inc. Land Surveyors, and recorded in Book of Maps 2017, Page 2178, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1712 Mayridge Lane, Raleigh, North Carolina.
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination.
of Cary, Wake County, North Carolina and is fully described in the Declaration, the Declaration being incorporated herein by reference. Including the Unit located thereon; said Unit being located at 103 Marbury Court 1C, Cary, North Carolina.
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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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
A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five 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
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
Carolina, as designated and described in the Declaration of Unit Ownership under the provisions of Chapter 47A of the North Carolina General Statutes, (The “Declaration”) dated August 25, 1986, recorded in Book 3807, Page 575, Wake County Registry, the First Amendment thereto duly recorded in Book 3848, Page 865, Wake County Registry, the Second Amendment thereto duly recorded in Book 3996, Page 607, Wake County Registry, the Third Amendment thereto duly recorded in Book 4225, Page 624, Wake County Registry, The Fourth Amendment thereto duly recorded in Book 4473, Page 615, Wake County Registry. The Fifth Amendment thereto duly recorded in Book 4607, Page 581, Wake County Registry. The Sixth Amendment thereto duly recorded in Book 4655, Page 402, Wake County Registry. The Seventh Amendment thereto duly recorded in Book 4661, Page 400, Wake County Registry. The Eighth Amendment thereto duly recorded in Book 4693, Page 184, Wake County Registry (see Condominium Plan, Condominium File #109, Wake County Registry, for plans) together with a 1.593 percent total undivided interest in the Common Property and Facilities declared to be appurtenant to said unit, said unit’s undivided interest being more particularly described in the second amendment to the declaration reference herein. The land upon which the building and improvements are located is situated in or near the Town
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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized
File No.: 26-08649-FC01
26-125736
16-084240
SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm, LLP P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 24131 - 143512
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 effective 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 effective date of the termination. 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.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 22965 - 165282
VOLUME 149 ISSUE 24 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026
CHATHAMNEWSRECORD.COM
THE CHATHAM COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Hallworthy Longtime Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly caps his football career Saturday when he joins 386 of his fellow players to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. One of the bigger highlights of his career, pictured, was when he picked off Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson on the second play of a 2016 NFC divisional playoff game, running it back for a touchdown. Carolina won that game 31-24 and continued on to play the Broncos in Super Bowl 50. For more, turn to NSJ sports. CHUCK BURTON / AP PHOTO
the
Chatham County Schools facing BRIEF this week difficulties with technology acquisition Divided federal appeals court says Trump administration wrong to terminate climate funds Washington, D.C. A federal appeals court has ruled that the Trump administration improperly ended a multibillion-dollar program for clean energy projects. This decision supports a lower court’s ruling that nonprofits chosen to run the Biden-era effort should have access to the funds. The ruling is temporarily on hold, allowing the Environmental Protection Agency time to appeal to the Supreme Court. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, known as a “green bank,” was designed to finance small energy projects. The Trump administration accused the nonprofits of mismanagement and fraud, freezing the funds. The groups denied wrongdoing and sued, claiming legal violations.
Guard deployment to Washington, D.C., into 2029 will cost roughly $1.4B, estimate shows The extension of the National Guard deployment in Washington, D.C., until January 2029 will cost roughly $1.4 billion, according to a Defense Department estimate provided to Congress. The figure offers a glimpse of how much taxpayer money will be spent on a deployment that has been criticized by local officials as an infringement of their city’s autonomy and by Democrats who say it has militarized the streets of nation’s capital.
Chromebook prices have increased by more than $100 in the last year By Ryan Henkel Chatham News & Record PITTSBORO — The Chatham County Schools Board of Education met Aug. 3 for a myriad of items.
year because of budget concerns.” Samberg pointed to the rising cost of equipment spurred on by rising memory costs and how within the last year, prices for units have increased by more than $100 from when the district last purchased them. “Due to these rapid price fluctuations, we used to get a quote from these companies that would be good for 30 days and
we’d bring it to the board, but now with the vendors we typically use for computer equipment, the best we’ve gotten for validity of quotes is a week and most are doing 24-48 hours tops because the prices are changing so fast,” Samberg said. Because of these challenges, the board authorized a See SCHOOLS, page A7
Silk Hope Ruritan Club announces 2026 scholarship recipients Scholarship funds totaling $12,000 were awarded By Melinda Burris Chatham News & Record SILK HOPE — In mid-July, the Silk Hope Ruritan Club met and presented its annual schol-
arship awards, giving out a total of $12,000. “The criteria for eligibility for scholarships from the organization are that the student must either go through Silk Hope School, attend Silk Hope School, or be a child or a grandchild of a Ruritan member,” said Michael Rogers, current Ruritan Club
president and chairman of the scholarship committee. The 2026 scholarship winners, with the school they are attending, are Carly Cardman, Reyna Nava Catalan, UNC Chapel Hill; Gracie Debnam, NC State; Emily Dekaney, UNC Wilmington; Aidan Leysath, University of Alabama; Abby
Stein, Jackson plan to hold Duke Energy ‘accountable’ in data center pledge “Data centers must pay their own way to protect families from rising electricity costs.” Gov. Josh Stein
$2.00
The board was first presented with some of the issues that the technology department has been facing with the rapid fluctuation of tech prices. “Normally, at the end of every school year, we purchase Chromebooks that we deploy over the summer and the next school year,” said Chief Technology Officer Mark Samberg. “We did not do that this past
More than 200 organizations have signed the Ratepayer Protection Pledge
By Jessica Taylor For Chatham News & Record RALEIGH — Gov. Josh Stein and Attorney General Jeff Jackson urged Duke Energy to create a legally binding contract to abide by the promises it has made after joining the federal administration’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge.
“Duke just promised the federal government that it won’t shift the cost of data centers onto families,” said Jackson in the press release. “We agree, but a promise in Washington doesn’t lower a power bill in North Carolina. We’re calling on Duke to make that same promise to the Utilities Commission, in writing, where it can be enforced.” “I am pleased to see that Duke Energy has signed on to the Ratepayer Protection Pledge,” added Stein. “Now, Duke EnSee PLEDGE, page A7
McPherson, NC State; Landon Moser, Guilford College; Grant W. Smith, NC State; Lilliana Hicks, Campbell University; Mallory Jones, UNC Chapel Hill; Mayson Walters, NC State; and Sanyia White, Sandhills Community College. See WINNERS, page A7
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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
THURSDAY
8.6.26 #134
Congressman Edwards quits reelection bid after committee recommends his censure The 11th District Republican’s behavior was deemed “beyond inappropriate”
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CRIME LOG July 27 • Le’Keevin Nysean Banks, 27, was arrested for assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. July 28 • Rocky Wallace Chriscoe, 46, was arrested for second-degree trespass. • Phillip Dixon Williams, 44, was arrested for trafficking in methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. • Franklin Miles Young, 46, was arrested for breaking and entering and misdemeanor larceny. • Darreus Vo Shon McNeill, 29, was arrested for felony assault on an individual with a disability, failure to register as a sex offender, assault with a deadly weapon and other charges. • Kiera Chante’ Nelson, 22, was arrested for forgery of an instrument. July 29 • Demetris Christian Goins, 30, was arrested for breaking and entering, violation of a domestic violence protective order, communicating threats and other charges. July 30 • John Kerry Powell, 75, was arrested for soliciting alms. • Daniel Stephen Kirkman, 37, was arrested for felony conspiracy, aiding and abetting larceny, possession of stolen goods and other charges. • Joseph Wiley Beal, 45, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. • Daniel Marin, 33, was arrested for driving while impaired. July 31 • Shameek Tavon Snuggs, 32, was arrested for driving on a revoked license. • Zoie Dasha Mason, 27, was arrested for misdemeanor aiding and abetting. Aug. 1 • Hannah Michelle Dowdy, 32, was arrested for driving while impaired and misdemeanor child abuse. • Aleaha Renne Marr, 32, was arrested for driving while impaired. • Wade Hampton Farrish, 72, was arrested for violation of a domestic violence protective order and communicating threats. Aug. 2
The Ethics panel found no evidence Edwards explicitly propositioned any person under his employ or engaged in any sexual activity with them. But it also said he failed to adhere to “the spirit of rules prohibiting sexual harassment of and unwanted advances to House staffers.” “Both women were uncomfortable with his behavior (which they attempted to communicate) but were put in an untenable position by virtue of his status as their boss and a Member of Congress,” the Ethics Committee said in its 25-page report. “Representative Edwards was at minimum blind to that reality, and at worst, dismissive of the impact his inappropriate conduct had on the careers and well-being of two women on his staff.” One aide worked for the congressman’s office for about 21⁄2 years and the other for about three years. They no longer work there. The Ethics panel said they left due to conduct described in its report, although they provided other explanations to Edwards. In a 15-page response to the report, Edwards’ attorneys argued that the committee’s findings “exonerate” the congressman, pointing to the conclusion that he did not engage in sexual activity or explicitly proposition any staff member. His attorneys said the recommendation of censure was an “extraordinarily harsh and infrequent punishment” that is based on vague standards and adherence to the spirit of House rules, “not based on a direct violation of House rules addressing sexual misconduct.” House members are prohibited from engaging in sexual harassment or making unwanted advances toward their subordinates. The committee’s report de-
tailed numerous gifts that Edwards gave the two aides, calling the gifts “beyond norms of professional behavior.” The women received jewelry totaling more than $1,000, designer purses, guns, shoes, flowers, a laptop and cell phone, as well as vacations, tickets to performances, and one-onone dinners. House rules in place to protect staff The Edwards investigation came at a time of heightened scrutiny of lawmakers’ behavior toward female staffers following the resignations of Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell and Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales. Both were facing calls for their expulsion before they stepped down earlier this year. In May, House leadership designated Reps. Kat Cammack (R-Fla.) and Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) to lead a bipartisan effort to combat sexual misconduct in Congress. Their work is focused on making Capitol Hill a safer job environment for women. The Ethics panel said Edwards cooperated with the investigation and acknowledged to them that at least some of the behavior at issue could be viewed as inappropriate. However, he has not acknowledged or taken responsibility for the harm he caused, the committee said. In his interview with the committee, the panel said Edwards repeatedly asserted that he knows well what constitutes “sexual harassment” and seemed to believe he had immunized himself from such a charge by avoiding inappropriate touching and sexual comments and occasionally telling the staffers that they were free to put up boundaries. “Despite the absence of an explicit proposition, a reasonable person could interpret Representative Edwards’ intimate and effusive attentions, where he prioritized the personal over the professional, as thinly veiled advances,” the committee wrote. It appears Edwards will stay in his seat in Congress through January, though his announcement may not save him from being censured once the House returns from its August break.
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.
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Chatham County:
Aug. 7 A Different Thread 7-8:30 p.m. The British folk and North Carolina alt-country duo performs at the community’s free outdoor summer concert series. A hat is passed for the musicians. Bynum Front Porch 950 Bynum Rd. Bynum
Aug. 8 Wildlife Tracking Program 1-2 p.m. Chatham Community Library hosts a special wildlife tracking program for the community. Registration details are available through the library. Chatham Community Library 197 N.C. Highway 87 N. Pittsboro
Sanford Farmers Market 8:30 a.m. to noon Experience the ultimate in food, fun and fellowship in the Sandhills region at an ideal setting for local food producers to build connections within the community while giving the public a place to sample and purchase food and crafts made by their neighbors. 115 Chatham St. Sanford
Aug. 9 CCHA Historical Tour: Education in Chatham County 1–2:30 p.m. The Chatham County Historical Association leads a guided look at educational history across the county, combining a virtual presentation with a campus walk. Admission is $5 for members and $10 for nonmembers; capacity is limited to 35. George Moses Horton Middle School 79 Horton Road Pittsboro
Noon-6 p.m. The Plant’s annual festival celebrating the local tomato harvest features live music, food tastings, vendors and activities. Admission is free. The Plant 213 Lorax Lane Pittsboro
Aug. 14
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 five $100 Visa gift cards. Scan the QR code or visit NCBrightIdeas.com for more information or to apply!
128 Wilson Rd SANFORD, NC
happening
Chatham Tomato Festival
Nine Times Around 7-8:30 p.m. The Irish and Celtic band performs at the community’s free outdoor summer concert series. A hat is passed for the musicians.
919-774-4900 800-446-7752
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• Urbano Garcia-Sanchez, 27, was arrested for driving while impaired.
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Embattled North Carolina Republican congressman Chuck Edwards withdrew from his reelection campaign Wednesday, two days after the House Ethics Committee recommended he be censured for unprofessional and inappropriate conduct toward two young female aides in his office. The Ethics Committee recommended the censure, an act registering its deep disapproval of a lawmaker’s conduct that does not meet the threshold for expulsion, on Monday. The panel highlighted numerous examples of actions it considered improper, including Edwards providing the young women with lavish and recurrent gifts, making comments regarding their appearance and dress, inviting them to intimate dinners and vacations, and sending notes regarding his affection. According to North Carolina state law, a candidate who officially resigns their nomination can be replaced on the ballot by their party. Edwards, 65, denied that any of his conduct was intended as a sexual or romantic advance, but the committee said his behavior would “lead a reasonable observer to interpret it as such.” Edwards, who is serving his second term, said that he made the decision to drop his reelection bid after “much prayer and reflection” and that he would complete the current term. “Serving Western North Carolina has been the honor of my life,” he said in a post on X. “Thank you for your trust, prayers, and support. God bless WNC and America.” The Ethics Committee described Edwards’ actions as “beyond inappropriate” but said it found no evidence that he explicitly propositioned any person under his employ or engaged in any sexual activity with them. On Tuesday, a spokesperson for Sen. Ted Budd (R-N.C.) said “Senator Budd does not
Report found Edwards made aides “uncomfortable”
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• Marivel Pineda, 46, was arrested for possession of marijuana and possession of marijuana paraphernalia.
By Kevin Freking The Associated Press
disclose his private conversations, but he finds the House Ethics report deeply concerning. He believes Rep. Edwards faces a significant uphill battle in his reelection bid, given that he was already trailing in the polls.”
CHATHAM
CEMCPower.com
Bynum Front Porch 950 Bynum Road Bynum
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Church News GUM SPRINGS BAPTIST CHURCH 227 Gum Springs Church Road Moncure
Gum Springs Baptist Church invites you to join us as we celebrate our 197th birthday on Aug. 16 with a covered dish meal following the 10 a.m. service. We will host revival Monday, Aug. 17 through Wednesday, Aug. 19.
PHOTOS BY RODRIQUE NGOWI / AP PHOTO
A worker drives a forklift at the Phoenix Tailings refinery July 22 in Exeter, New Hampshire.
US companies stepping up to cut reliance on China for critical minerals used in key weapons The transition will likely take years despite Pentagon funding and tight deadlines By Didi Tang, Josh Funk and Rodrique Ngowi The Associated Press EXETER, N.H. — Tucked inside a New Hampshire office park, a small refinery zaps mining waste with electricity to tease out critical minerals needed for key U.S. weapons systems, including missiles used in the Iran war. It can play a part in helping America break the chokehold China has on processing critical minerals, but it will take up to a year and a half to build a new factory as the Trump administration pushes to expand domestic production. The company, Phoenix Tailings, recently got a $500 million loan from the Pentagon to ramp up its work, after starting out eight years ago as a backyard lab seeking a cleaner metal-refining method. It’s just the latest critical minerals company the government has backed. The task that workers carry out in heat-resistant suits and sealed face masks has become more urgent as the Iran conflict draws down key munitions such as Tomahawk cruise missiles and THAAD interceptors. While the White House is demanding military contractors speed up production, it’s also imposing stricter rules banning them from sourcing critical minerals from China. “It will be a tall order and a challenge to replenish these stocks and scale up in the timeframe needed to meet defense demand and regulations,” said Anthony Balladon, chief commercial officer and a co-founder of Phoenix Tailings. He said the company is working hard to boost capacity. Although the U.S. is quickening its pace to build domestic supplies of critical minerals free of control from its most formidable rival, it will likely take years for companies across the industry to build new mines and boost production of the high-powered magnets essential in many high-tech applications. Extracting some of the hard-to-pronounce elements from existing mine waste can help satisfy the growing demand in the meantime, but it will likely take several companies to do that. Critical minerals industry has big plans, but it will take time to ramp up Phoenix Tailings taps waste from traditional mining as well as recycled magnets and disk drives as raw materials, working to counter China in processing where it has the strongest hold on the supply chain. The company based in the Boston-area city of Woburn, Massachusetts, plans to build a bigger facility to extract and produce critical metals needed in not only defense but also the aerospace and automotive industries. “We call it the freedom facil-
ity because, ultimately, the purpose of this is to ensure that the entire Western Hemisphere, the United States and its allies are free of Chinese influence within the rare-earth space,” Balladon said. On a recent afternoon, two technicians in heat-resistant hazmat suits were operating an apparatus of cylinders, tubes, funnels and control panels set up on a platform with bright yellow railings. A chemical process involving electricity removes oxygen and turns the material into a grayish metal that can be used to make the extremely strong permanent magnets used in fighter jets, missiles, radar systems and drones. The metals that Phoenix Tailings refines and other critical minerals play “an outsized role” in defense systems, Balladon said. A $150 million weapons system won’t work if it’s missing critical minerals that may be worth only $20,000 to $30,000, he said. The defense sector is particularly reliant on the metal samarium and needs 50 to 100 tons each year, but U.S. capacity is very limited, he said. Phoenix Tailings is among the few companies capable of producing the final metal, according to Balladon, but its capacity is only about 440 pounds a year. He said the company will scale up to about 5 tons in the next three months but that it will be next year or 2028 before it reaches its goal of 120ton capacity. Another U.S. magnet maker looks to France for raw materials Arnold Magnetic Technologies for years relied on China for samarium to produce the extremely strong, stable-in-high-temperatures magnet that goes into precision-guided missiles such as Tomahawks. That doesn’t work anymore. For Arnold, the solution to getting the critical minerals it needs has come from a relic of Europe’s past rare-earth industry — abandoned mining dirt in the French city of La Rochelle. Solvay, a Belgium-headquartered chemical company, stopped separating and processing rare earths from the mined dirt in the 2000s. That was when China was building up most of the world’s processing capacity with a determination to dominate the industry. China weaponized that near-monopoly last year by choking off its flow of processed critical materials and forcing the U.S. government to back off during a trade war. Solvay then restarted work and has added other rare earths this year, including samarium. “This ramp-up is driven by several factors: rapidly growing demand for permanent magnets, increased geopolitical focus on supply chain security, and strong customer demand in Europe and the United States for more diversified, resilient and traceable sources of supply,” a Solvay spokesperson said. For Arnold Magnetic Technologies, paying more to get
its supply from Solvay instead of China has not been a deal-breaker, because the samarium-cobalt magnets it makes account for only a small cost in a weapon system, said Arnold CEO Matt Blake. “They are not the absolute cost drivers,” he said. Plus, the company says the surge in demand for magnets has worked in its favor. Some concerns remain. The U.S. is dependent on imports of the critical mineral tungsten, with China controlling roughly 80% of the global mine supply and an even larger share of processing, according to Brodie Sutherland, CEO of Patriot Critical Minerals Corp. Sutherland, whose company seeks to explore and mine tungsten in the U.S., is concerned that America will not be able to get by without China-sourced tungsten after a Pentagon-imposed deadline of Jan. 1, 2027. Efforts to ramp up U.S. production will take years, he said, and in the meantime, the Pentagon and its defense contractors will need to rely on existing inventories, expanded recycling and limited non-China sources. The Iran war and Trump’s China order create pressure and opportunity The need to increase production has become more urgent as renewed fighting with Iran digs into the U.S. military’s already diminished stockpiles of advanced missile interceptors, including Patriots and THAADs, according to a recent analysis from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington, D.C., think tank. It also has raised concerns that the military would have diminished firepower in any potential future conflict with China. CSIS warned in May that it could take at least three years to replenish stockpiles of Tomahawks, Patriots and THAADs, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense interceptors. At the same time, President Donald Trump has announced stricter controls on defense contractors sourcing critical materials from China. “It is the policy of the United States that not only the finished equipment deployed by our military, but also the critical materials and components necessary to manufacture, maintain, sustain, and repair that equipment, are sourced domestically or from allied nations,” the July 20 executive order says. Lockheed Martin, which makes THAADs and many other weapons systems, said, “We continuously assess the global rare earth supply chain to ensure access to critical materials that support our customers’ missions.” Several other major U.S. defense contractors, including Raytheon Technologies and Northrop Grumman, didn’t respond to requests for comment. Balladon, of Phoenix Tailings, was confident in U.S. companies. “Ultimately, with the right support and partners across the industry, we think we can make it happen,” he said.
The Rev. Jason Golden, associational missionary with Sandy Creek Association, will speak Monday, The Rev. Terry Pleasants on Tuesday, and the week of services will conclude Wednesday with a song service lead by Lisa Martin of Lee’s Chapel Christian, Sanford leading suggestions from the audience. Services will begin at 6:30 p.m. each evening.
REAVES CHAPEL AME ZION CHURCH 7888 Goldston-Glendon Road Goldston Reaves Chapel AME Zion Church will be having their annual Homecoming Service on Sunday, Aug. 9 at 11 a.m. You are cordially invited to come out and celebrate with us on this special occasion. Dinner will be served in the Fellowship Hall immediately after service. The speaker for our Homecoming Service will be our very own pastor, the Rev. Joseph L. Marsh.
RIVES CHAPEL BAPTIST CHURCH 4338 Rives Chapel Church Road Siler City Website: riveschapelbaptist.com Homecoming and revival Sunday, Aug. 9 – 11 a.m. worship service Service with speaker Dr. Sandy Marks, who serves as the pastoral strategist with the Baptist State Convention. A covered dish lunch will follow in the fellowship hall. Revival services – Aug. 9-12 at 7 p.m.ik Special Music Nightly!
AMAZING GRACE! Bible study: John 15:127 Church of Living Water; Servant: James Mitchell. God the Father sent His Son Jesus Christ so that the world could be forgiven for all our sins. Jesus is the True Vine who suffered so all who are willing could have Eternal Life. Everyone could have true peace on earth and the abundant life. I ask all, why do so many hate the One who gave His life for all? Are we bearing the fruit that shows we have truly repented of our sins? We need to judge ourselves—have we truly been born again? Satan will do everything to try to stop us from coming to Jesus. Satan can’t stop anyone who chooses to accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior! I ask the world, why do you hate the only One who can forgive all our sins? To all brothers and sisters, don’t let Satan divide us, in Jesus’ name. A Christian may think they’re right and be so wrong. God loves the humble heart but resists the prideful heart. If the evil in this world hated Jesus, they will hate His children also. To all who know Jesus as Lord and Savior, stand steadfast. All who have heard God’s truth, we are without excuse. I sincerely pray that all see and understand God’s truth! The world is in perilous times like never before.
Share with your community! ••• Send your birth, death, marriage, graduation and other announcements to community@ chathamnewsrecord.com. ••• Weekly deadline is Monday at noon.
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THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | ANDREW TAYLOR-TROUTMAN
In memoriam: Michael Earl Terry
I find inspiration in people like Michael, who live the faith of service, hospitality and love.
MY FRIEND Michael Terry died July 27. I am hardly alone in grieving his loss. Family and friends filled up the entire Dennis A. Wicker Civic Center in Sanford for his funeral. Mourners sat in the aisles! Michael was a father, grandfather and lover of corny dad jokes: “How do you find Will Smith in the snow?” Answer: “Follow the fresh prints!” In his professional life, Michael was an accomplished entrepreneur and chef who dedicated his life to feeding people. He worked in food services with Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools and the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, and (with his beloved wife, Stephanie) founded a successful catering company. Michael also had a heart to serve. I met him during the COVID-19 pandemic when he spearheaded efforts to prepare and distribute over 70,000 individually packaged meals for children and seniors. He also volunteered at the Triangle Baha’i Institute, where he cooked for thousands of children and adults who attended camps and conferences. Michael was not a Christian. My friend spent most of his life as a member of the Rastafarian
community, and he often quoted their motto, “To feed the hungry is to serve God.” I agree, and I think Jesus would as well. The ancient Galilean rabbi spoke often of bread, fish, lamb and olive oil. Jesus valued food as a means to create community, such as a wedding party in which he turned a hundred-some gallons of water into excellent wine! He also fed thousands of people with two fish and five loaves, and there were 12 baskets of leftovers to feed even more. I am a Christian because of the central place of the table in our life of worship and service. Everyone is invited to experience grace and then to feel empowered to share that gift with the world so that the beloved community comes “on earth, as it is in heaven,” as Jesus taught his followers to pray. Until that day comes, I find inspiration in people like Michael, who live the faith of service, hospitality and love. It’s like a good meal; you know it when you experience it. Michael was also a basketball fan, so I shared one of my dad jokes with him: “Which fast-food chain is more likely to win a basketball tournament?”
COURTESY
Michael Earl Terry Dunkin’ Donuts! 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, coffee drinker and student of joy.
COLUMN | BOB WACHS
Right thing may take time, but it’s worth the effort
Maybe the doughnut light had just come on at Krispy Kreme.
IS IT JUST me or is the milk of human kindness in short supply these days? Or has it always been in short supply and I was, or still am, just too stupid or naïve to notice the volume of the supply is lacking? I hope I’m wrong; I hope there’s more and more of that milk around, more than there used to be. I hope more and more folks take the time, most often just a moment or two, to do the right thing. But the more birthdays I have, the more random acts of unkindness I see. So could it just be that I’m too often in the wrong place then? Granted, this hurry-up, fast-paced, “get yours-while-you-can-and-don’t-worryabout-anybody-else” world can do that to you. But let me go on record as saying I don’t like it, and that in my humble opinion, it is not a good thing for man or beast. For instance, why do some folks either just stare at you or not even bother to do that when you step aside and hold the door for them. What ever happened to “Hello” or “Good morning” or even “Thank you” or just “Thanks”? I know, I know … maybe they’re having a bad day or their grandma just died or something, but does that excuse not acknowledging another human being is in your presence? I put forth that question once in a group discussion, and someone berated me with a question of their own, namely, “Why are you holding the door in the first place? Is it so they’ll thank you?” The answer to that is, “No, that’s not the reason.” The reason I do that is because my mama and daddy reared me and my brothers to do that — and other similar things — for another human, regardless of their age, race, sex, beauty, lack of or anything else. It is, they said, the right thing to do. Now before someone says I must think I’m pretty special or just the greatest thing going or ain’t that just grand about my mama, let me go on to say I’m pretty sure many other folks were similarly reared. I’m just not seeing them that much these days. Case in point: You knew there had to be something that launched this
tirade, didn’t you? Actually, there are two. One has to do with when you’re trying to merge into traffic and there are two lanes and all the traffic is in the one closest to you and folks will die at the wheel before they realize all they have to do is pull over to the other lane and you both can travel on. In a nod to the ancient days when I took driver’s training, our instructor told us it was really important to pay attention to the world around you when driving. He told us we shouldn’t be combing our hair or applying lipstick or sending text messages — oh, wait … there were no cell phones then. He told us to pay attention and to watch what other drivers were doing. Truthfully, I can live with that one because, in spite of my ramblings, there have been times I have not pulled over myself. Not many because I do pay attention to that, but, in the spirit of honesty, I must admit there have been some. I have been so preoccupied with my thoughts or singing along with Levi Stubbs and the Four Tops on “Baby, I Need Your Lovin’” that I wasn’t paying attention to other traffic, which our driver training instructor also said was something we should do. The other case in point of the absence of kindness or common decency or whatever word(s) you like has to do with drivers who love their horns and can’t wait to lean on them for extended periods of time. Not so long ago, I was parked on the main street of my little hometown. I’d conducted some business and made my way back to my ride. I was parked in the end space of a line, next to a traffic light which I couldn’t see because it was hidden from view because of the shape of my vehicle. So I watched the traffic flow, and when the line of cars going the way I wanted to go stopped for a red light I began easing out, watching all around. Apparently, Richard Petty or A.J. Foyt has moved to Pittsboro because in a nanosecond a driver had zoomed up the side street, made a quick turn and wound up on — and almost in — my bumper as I was two-thirds out of the space. I’m pretty sure the back-up lights on my ride work, and if Mr. NASCAR had been
watching he could have seen them go out as I worked the shifter to pull back in since it was obvious he wasn’t going to let me out. I don’t know why he was in a hurry. Maybe the doughnut light had just come on at Krispy Kreme. Maybe his wife was in the car about to give birth to triplets. Maybe his wife had just hollered at him because she was in the car. Maybe he loves his horn. Maybe he’s just not nice … I don’t know. What I do know is the horn on his ride works because he let me hear it loud and long, preferring to let the world, or at least that part around us, know how I had insulted him by daring to get into his space — never mind that he wasn’t there just a moment before — rather than take the same amount of time to let me out that was required to sound off his horn. And in that same spirit of honesty I spoke of earlier, let me tell you two things happened from that brief encounter. No. 1 is that the entire incident instantly registered about an 8.75 on my 10 scale of anger, mainly because it was unnecessary. And secondly, noticing as he went by that his passenger window was down, since my window was also down, I reverted to another random act of kindness mentioned earlier — I thanked him for his kindness. Really, I did. I said, “Thank you.” Now that’s as far as it went. I did not question his ancestry or swear at him or invent any new words, use a sailor’s vocabulary or show him any hand gestures. I just said “thank you” so he could hear it. But I’m thinking the entire time: Why not take just a moment and extend an act of kindness to another human rather than sit down on your vehicle horn for as long as you could hold it? I wonder if he would like it if I laid down on my horn if I’m ever 5 feet from his ear. So, be on the lookout, friends; find a random act of kindness somewhere and do it. Please … Bob Wachs is a native of Chatham County and emeritus editor at Chatham News & Record. He serves as pastor of Bear Creek Baptist Church.
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COLUMN | JAN HUTTON
COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI
Fauci’s cowardly Fifth Amendment evasion
Toothbrushes are just that awesome …
If I framed it as an “awesome” toothbrush, does anything change?
TOOTHBRUSHES? Awesome? Are we on the same page? Same page, different awarenesses. Sounds like Greek to me. Let’s start again. The beginning … I’m an old Trekkie who recently watched one of the newest iterations of that particular genre. In this particular iteration, there’s a humanoid holographic character, programmed to be 17 years old, whose only history is in this very moment. She sees all objects around her with absolutely new eyes, no judgments. Ergo, “Toothbrushes are just that awesome!” When was the last time, if ever, you called a toothbrush “awesome?” Now answer honestly … Wait, wait, what’s the point to this “toothbrush” mischigas (word for the day: mischigas. Yiddish for craziness.) But hey, surprise: Our focus is not so much on the toothbrush as it is on the toothbrush’s perceived “awesomeness.” Whoa, whoa! I’m truly lost right now! This all begins to sound like mischigas. I don’t need craziness on a Sunday afternoon. Point made. Moving on. Now let’s just be honest with each other. If I mentioned the word toothbrush to you, what might your reaction be? Boring … Gotta agree with you. However, if I framed it as an “awesome” toothbrush, does anything change? Well, yeah. I’d certainly be giving that toothbrush a second look, maybe even a third.
Am I missing something in terms of it being awesome? Viewing my utilitarian toothbrush through the prism of awesome, I begin to see it’s one of my favorite colors (purple; just adore purple.) Keepin’ it right handy for my seemingly never-ending dental journey. (Please don’t tell my dentist I was sarcastic and said that.) My utilitarian purple toothbrush now has greater dimension. It’s no longer just an object but one with a living history, and appreciation, in my life. (Who knew purple toothbrushes could make me so happy?) Looking through the prism of the word “awesome,” my surroundings can offer me a sense of wonder. Doors opening into memories of an object’s trailing history in my life. Everything around me is alive. Not-simply-just-an-object. Resonating with a history I generally don’t notice … If I’m feeling a bit lonely? How about peering at my autumnal-colored couch, appending the word awesome to it. Many images of its journey through the years come swimming back. I’m no longer alone. The memories are of people who have come and gone, but nonetheless, they gifted me with their presence on that couch and in my life. You want ongoing aliveness in your life? The password is “awesome!” No need to protect that particular password. Feel free to share. Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor.
COLUMN | VICTOR JOECKS
The inadequacy of opposing socialism
It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back.
DON’T ASSUME socialism’s inevitable failures will stop it from spreading. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced that his government-run grocery stores will offer products at a 30% discount. The appeal of this plan is obvious. Everyone would like to pay less for milk, eggs and meat. That this plan won’t work is equally obvious to anyone who understands basic economics. Unfortunately, that excludes many New Yorkers and college graduates. Take a look at the details of Mamdani’s plan. He doesn’t want the city to run these stores. He’s seeking proposals from “qualified grocers or firms to serve as operators” of the stores. “The City sets the mission, the standards and the store design; experienced third-party operators run the stores day to day under those requirements,” a release from Mamdani’s office states. Further, “operators will be required to provide family-sustaining wages and benefits and commit to a Labor Peace Agreement so that workers who want to organize can do so without interference.” That Mamdani doesn’t trust NYC’s bureaucracy to run his grocery stores is smart, but it also shows why the government shouldn’t run grocery stores. Mamdani may want to seize the means of production, but he appears to recognize that government doesn’t do a great job of producing. His premise is also absurd. Most grocery stores have profit margins of 1% to 3%. Mamdani wants an operator to run his stores with 30% discounts on major items and to allow a union to inflate worker pay. Maybe Mamdani can hire fairies to stock the shelves with products delivered by unicorns. But Mamdani doesn’t expect these operators to lower prices by 30%. The city’s request for proposals states the city “will provide financial support to the Operator(s) to mitigate operating deficits attributable to discounted Core Basket sales and enable cost-effective program delivery.” This subsidy would be in addition to NYC taxpayers paying $70 million to build five stores and then cover their rent and property taxes.
Mamdani’s grocery store scheme won’t prove the superiority of socialism because he’s not even trying to lower costs. He’s content to disguise them with crony capitalism. It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back. If the grocery stores are “successful,” they’ll drive nearby privately run stores out of business, which will erode the tax base. That will require more government-subsidized grocery stores, driving more grocery stores out of business and further reducing tax revenues. This spiral will continue until New Yorkers come to their electoral senses or run out of toilet paper — proof a country has fully implemented socialism. These are important arguments to make. But they aren’t enough. Mamdani gives his followers specifics that create a clear narrative. According to him, the problem is high prices — the villains are rich people, and the solution is government-run grocery stores. Now, Mamdani is wrong — very wrong — on the details. But conservatives need to imitate his model. For instance, electricity prices are too high — the villain is the left’s push for expensive and unreliable green energy, and the solution is ending federal subsidies for wind and solar. States also need to repeal their renewable portfolio standards. Car prices are too high — the villain is anti-fossil fuel regulations pushed by Democrats, and the solution is requiring Congress to authorize any restrictions on gas-powered vehicles. Now one challenge for conservatives is that real solutions can take years to work, while socialists promise quick fixes and gimmicks. But by identifying the root cause of a problem, conservatives make a much stronger argument. It isn’t enough to point out the many problems with socialist proposals. Conservatives also need to provide villains and solutions. Victor Joecks is a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
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THERE’S NOTHING inherently wrong with invoking the Fifth Amendment. The perception that anyone who pleads the Fifth to protect themselves from self-incrimination is only hiding guilt is wrong. Innocent people are often The long-term intimidated or tricked consequences by those in power into implicating themselves. of blanket Others might get nervous pardons are under oath and worry about misspeaking under pressure. exceptionally Former Director of the corrosive. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Anthony Fauci, who appeared before the Senate committee investigating the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is not one of those people. There is some legal question as to whether a person who has received a pardon loses his ability to plead the Fifth since the assertion is predicated on shielding them from future crimes, like lying to Congress. Fauci, after all, could admit to personally creating COVID-19 in a lab and then spreading it himself, and there is still nothing the government could do to him. Former President Joe Biden gave him an unprecedented pardon for any federal offenses related to any pandemic-era actions between Jan. 1, 2014, and Jan. 19, 2025. The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive. It’s difficult to imagine anything that could incentivize criminality and abuse of power with the government more than knowing a president will give you a getout-of-jail-free card at the end of a term. The entire point of the hearings, Fauci contends, is to trap him. Fauci says Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), who released a cache of diary entries and emails earlier this week, is obsessed with prosecuting him, evident by his “repeated slanderous comments” and release of unredacted personal documents, which were aimed at “embarrassing and intimidation.” Perhaps. But Fauci, who was employed by the federal government for 54 years, director of the NIAID for 38, has likely delivered thousands of speeches and appeared in front of Congress somewhere around 250 times. If he can’t offer clear and honest testimony under oath, who can? The fact is that being truthful under oath would mean explaining several things: Why, though Fauci knew COVID-19’s fatality rate was likely at 0.2%-0.3% and “acting like a bad influenza,” he told Congress that it was “10 times more lethal than the seasonal flu.” Why, after privately expressing frustration regarding the efficacy of lockdowns in flattening the curve, Fauci not only advocated closing businesses and schools nationally but framed anyone who was skeptical as villains. Why Fauci publicly contended that he had absolutely nothing to do with school closings yet privately took credit for frightening the mayor of New York, the governor of California and others into shutting down their states. Why Fauci privately acknowledged that the wet market in Wuhan “was not the source” of the virus but the “amplifier” and yet continued contending, with great scientific certitude, that the virus jumping from bats to humans was “absolutely totally compatible” with the available evidence, but the theory of the virus being created in the Wuhan Institute of Virology was a “very, very, very, very remote possibility.” Committee Democrats, incidentally, declined to rebut any Republican criticisms aimed at Fauci or speak on any of the problems of the pandemic response. Many of these Democrats had not treated Fauci’s word as indisputable truth and smeared anyone who questioned his authoritarian remedies as if they were members of a death cult. Instead, Democrats used their time to highlight the spread of measles cases under anti-vaccine activist and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. It’s an important topic. The problem, though, is that Fauci and other public health officials who lied and manipulated the public under the banner of “science” have a lot to do with the collapse of trust in the institutions that help fight measles outbreaks. Failing to get any accountability or full transparency from those who botched the COVID pandemic response only fuels more suspicion and skepticism about vaccines. And, make no mistake, avoiding accountability and transparency are the real reasons Fauci took the Fifth. David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
obituaries
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Edna Esther (McAllister) Becker Nov. 19, 1933 – July 23, 2026 Edna Esther (McAllister) Becker, 92, of New York, entered her heavenly home on July 23, 2026, at Elcor Nursing and Rehabilitation, Horseheads, New York. Edna was born November 19, 1933, in Queens, New York to Ferdinand and Esther McAllister. Edna married Guenther K. Becker in December 1953. The couple had four children. Following the death of her husband in 1966, Edna and her children moved to Toms River, New Jersey where she was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Toms River and worked as a home health aide. Edna and her children moved to Siler City, North Carolina in 1983, where she was a devoted member of the Siler City Presbyterian Church. Her deep and abiding faith was a guiding presence throughout her life, providing her with strength, comfort, and grace. She worked at the VA Medical Center in Durham as a unit clerk for many years. Edna was blessed with many dear friends and treasured the time she shared with them. Her warm smile, compassionate heart, and genuine kindness drew people to her, creating
friendships that lasted a lifetime. She especially enjoyed traveling with her friends from the Siler City Senior Center, embracing every opportunity to explore new places and create lasting memories. Whether traveling across the United States or abroad, Edna approached each journey with a sense of adventure, curiosity, and gratitude. The friendships she cultivated and the experiences she shared brought her great joy and enriched her life in countless ways. In her later years, Edna moved to Big Flats, New York, where she was a member of Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church. Edna attended the Daytime Program at Elcor Nursing and Rehabilitation for several years before eventually becoming a resident there. Edna is lovingly remembered by her children: Bernhard Becker and his wife, Karen, of South Carolina; Bruce Becker and his wife, Sue, of Delaware; and Martha and her husband, Kyle, of New Jersey. She also leaves behind eight cherished grandchildren and seven beloved great-grandchildren, each of whom brought her immense joy and pride. Edna was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Guenther Becker; her beloved son, Ralph Becker; her cherished grandson, Jesse Becker; and her siblings, Marilyn Hargrave, Melvin McAllister, and Ward McAllister. Though she will be deeply missed, her love, faith, and the memories she created will live on in the hearts of her family and all who knew her. A funeral service will be held at Smith & Buckner, Siler City, NC. from 8:30am to 10:30am on Friday, July 31. Interment will follow at Chatham Memorial Park, Siler City, NC. Smith & Buckner Funeral Home will be assisting the Becker family. Online condolences can be made at www.smithbucknerfh. com
IN MEMORY
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RICHARD “JEFFREY” BAKER JAN. 11, 1962 – JULY 25, 2026 Richard “Jeffrey” Baker, 64, of Sanford, passed away on Saturday, July 25, 2026 at UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill. A Celebration of Life will be held on August 6, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. at Rise Assembly in Sanford with Pastor Ronnie Whitaker and Pastor Tim Gore presiding. Jeffrey was born in Harnett County on January 11, 1962 to Marvin and Brenda Blackmon Baker. He was a member of Rise Assembly and formerly served as a minister at Carthage Church of God. He was employed as a tech engineer at Nettapp in Morrisville. Jeffrey enjoyed riding his Honda Goldwing, working at the food bank and serving those in need. He loved his family and friends. Jeffrey was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Tammy Parker Baker, of the home; sister, Carol Baker, of Godwin; brother, Tony Baker (Myra), of Dunn; sisters and brothers-in-law, Teresa Veit (Tony), of FuquayVarina, Jennifer Ruggles (Tim), of Dunn and Marion Parker, Jr. (Deanna), of Southport and a host of family and friends.
DWIGHT FRANKLIN JONES AUG. 1, 2026 Dwight Franklin Jones, 86, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026 at his home surrounded by his family. Dwight was a native of Chatham County. He was a member of Beulah Baptist Church and a believer of the Lord Jesus Christ. He served as a Deacon and Trustee. Dwight owned and operated Dwight Jones Grocery & Gas. After retirement, he worked at Routh’s Grocery in Bennett. He also enjoyed selling produce. He was a kind, merciful man who enjoyed talking and picking with people. Dwight helped start the Bennett Fire Department and was a charter member. He served for 30 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clina and Leona Phillips Jones; a sister, Geneva Saunders and brothers, Wayne Jones, Ray Jones, Howard Jones and Gary Jones. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Ruby Garner Jones; daughters, Abigail Jones Beard, Anita Jones Thomas and Jan Jones White and husband, Brad; grandchildren, Clay White, Nolan White (Abbie), Chase Beard, Brianna Beard, Kayley Thomas, Macy Thomas and Lydia Thomas (Justin).
GERALD “JERRY” WAYNE GUNTER MAY 13, 1944 – JULY 27, 2026 Gerald “Jerry” Wayne Gunter, age 82 of New Hill, NC passed away on Monday (7/27/2026) at Transitions Life Care in Raleigh, NC surrounded by his loving family. Gerald was born in Chatham County on May 13,1944 as the son of Alvarado Banks Gunter and Mary Catherine Cross Gunter. Jerry was preceded in death by his parents and brother: Donald Gunter. Jerry graduated from Moncure High School in 1962, where he was Class President and a standout basketball player. After graduation he entered the Air Force and was stationed in Oklahoma, where he also continued to play basketball with the Air Force league. He was a proud veteran and up until his death, on every Memorial Day, July 4th, and Veterans Day, he placed flags on the gravesites of family members that served. He married Carolyn Morris on June 20, 1965. Upon his discharge from the Air Force in 1967, he and Carolyn relocated back to North Carolina and began working with IBM and remained there until his retirement. Until his recent health decline, he still ate lunch weekly with his buddies from workdays that remained close with him. Jerry and Carolyn built their family’s home on his wife’s family’s farm acreage in New Hill and there they raised their children and remained until their death. Jerry was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He doted on Caroline and Mason, spending many weekends at softball games, dance recitals, and baseball games. Jerry loved a good card game, a great round of golf and a competitive basketball game. Even though his children graduated from NC State, he remained dedicated to his Tarheels, which led to some competitive family gatherings. He is survived by his children. Daughter Michelle Gunter Everhart of Thomasville, NC. Son Stephen M. Gunter (Corey) of New Hill, NC. Two sisters; Nancy Gunter Walden (John) of Sanford, NC and Mary Ann Perkins (Larry) of Moncure, NC. Two Grandchildren; Caroline Grace Everhart and Mason Thomas Gunter.
EDWARD RICHARDSON HARDING NOV. 7, 1940 – JULY 29, 2026
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Chatham News & Record at obits@chathamnewsrecord.com
Edward Richardson Harding, age 85, of Sanford, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at FirstHealth Hospice House in West End. He was born in Chatham County on November 7, 1940 to the late Dwight Harding and Rosemond O’Neal Harding. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his loving wife Mabel McNeill Harding and his brother David Reed Harding. He served 20 years in the United States Army. His military service included a tour in Vietnam, where he demonstrated courage, dedication, and unwavering commitment to his country. In recognition of his honorable service, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal, the Bronze Star Medal, the Vietnam Cross of Gallantry, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Vietnam Service Medal, among other commendations. Upon retiring from the Army, Mr. Harding remained committed to those who had served. He joined the North Carolina Employment Security Commission as a Veterans Representative, where he found great purpose in helping fellow veterans secure meaningful employment as they transitioned to civilian life. His compassion, guidance, and understanding made a lasting difference in the lives of countless veterans and their families. In his free time, he was an avid hunter, fisher, gun enthusiast, devoted church member, enjoyed being on the water, and loved spending time with his family. Edward is survived by his sons William Edward Harding and Jeffrey Allan Harding, daughter Kelly Ann Hoy, eight grandchildren, and seven great grandchildren.
Kay Granger, first Republican woman from Texas to serve in the House, dead at 83 She rose from high school teacher to chair the powerful House Appropriations Committee
By Jamie Stengle The Associated Press DALLAS — Kay Granger, the first Republican woman from Texas to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and who served for nearly three decades, died Sunday at the age of 83, her son J.D. Granger said. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said in a post on X that throughout her career, Granger “broke barriers for women in public service.” He added that she “was a dear friend who will be greatly missed.” Granger, who began her career as a high school teacher
and a businesswoman, accomplished many firsts as a politician. She was the first woman elected mayor of Fort Worth, Texas, and the first Republican woman to chair one of the most powerful committees in Congress, the House Appropriations Committee. First elected to the House in 1996, she did not seek reelection in 2024 and experienced worsening “health challenges” in her final months in Congress, according to a statement her office released in December 2024. Granger, who didn’t cast a vote in Washington after July 2024, didn’t specify or elaborate on those health challenges but said in the statement that frequent travel had become “both difficult and unpredictable” since early September of that year. Granger graduated from Texas Wesleyan University
in 1965 and considered a career in fashion design but followed her mother into teaching. She worked in the Birdville school district for nine years, teaching English literature and journalism, according to a profile compiled for the publication “Women in Congress, 1917-2006.” A divorce would lead to a career change. To earn more money, Granger worked from home selling insurance. Her mother, Alliene Mullendore, who moved in with Granger after a stroke, helped keep an eye on the kids. Granger eventually built a successful insurance business that she managed for more than two decades. “I was a high school teacher with three children, a 2-year-old and 6-month-old twins, and my husband left,” Granger told The Hill in a 2008 profile. “It’s the
reason I talk so much to working mothers ... you just fight your way through the day.” Granger got her political start serving on Fort Worth’s zoning commission and then won election to the city council. She went on to win election as the city’s first female mayor, serving from 1991 to 1995. Granger’s “Code: Blue” programs included citizen patrol initiatives that halved the rampant crime rate and partnerships with the private sector that drew major businesses to the city. Her resuscitation of Fort Worth’s flagging economic fortunes drew national attention. In 1996, she was recruited by both parties to run for the House under their banner, and she won as a Republican. Upon entering Congress, she was named to an adviso-
ry board that consulted thenHouse Speaker Newt Gingrich. She also received seats on three committees: Budget, House Oversight, and Transportation and Infrastructure. She resigned those assignments as part of accepting a seat on the Appropriations Committee. On the committee, she focused on defense spending, including championing the production of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter in Fort Worth. When Republicans took charge of the House in 2023, Granger became the committee’s chair, where she sought to enact steeper nondefense spending cuts than the top-line numbers House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and President Joe Biden agreed to as part of avoiding an economically disastrous government default.
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
PLEDGE from page A1 ergy must make that voluntary pledge real. “The North Carolina Utilities Commission and Duke Energy must create a legally binding large load tariff to charge data centers their full freight, and they must establish a program that allows data centers to directly select and pay for their generation,” said Stein. “North Carolinians are struggling to make ends meet, and data centers must pay their own way to protect families from rising electricity costs.” Duke Energy is the largest investor-owned electric utility in North Carolina, serving about 8.7 million electric customers and 1.6 million natural gas customers. Last week, Duke Energy Carolinas, the Utilities Commission’s Public Staff and others reached a settlement to establish large load tariffs and new rules for data centers, according to the press release. Jackson will participate in the process and has urged the Utilities Commission to create a separate rate class for data centers and large energy users. The attorney general has further asked Duke to make realistic projections about data center growth and ensure that Duke will propose rules to have large companies bear the cost of infrastructure upgrades. Duke is additionally being urged to work with the Utilities Commission to establish its own means of generating power, given that its contracts are confidential. Earlier this month, Duke En-
JACQUELYN MARTIN / AP PHOTO
President Donald Trump holds up the Ratepayer Protection Pledge after signing it March 4 at the White House. ergy lowered its proposed rate increase for residential customers, which received pushback from Jackson and consumers. The increase was lowered from 18% to 11.6%. The Ratepayer Protection Pledge was issued March 4 to ensure the growth of data centers does not increase electricity costs for American households and ratepayers. It asks that large
energy users, such as data centers, generate and pay for their own power. Leading U.S. hyperscalers, including Amazon, Google, Meta, OpenAI and xAI, have signed on to the pledge. The pledge drives home five points: that companies will build, bring or buy new power supply and pay the full cost; pay for new power delivery infra-
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structure upgrades; pay whether or not they use the power; invest in local communities where they build data centers; and coordinate with grid operators to contribute to a more reliable grid. Several companies across Michigan, Indiana, Georgia, Mississippi, Iowa, Louisiana and Texas have reached agreements that project billions in customer savings over the years or en-
SCHOOLS from page A1 preapproval agreement to allow for the purchase of up to 1,500 Chromebooks for a price not to exceed $400 per unit once a contract has been worked out. At this time, no model nor vendors have been selected. “We’ll need to continue having laptops for students for the foreseeable future no matter what, but we’re looking at and evaluating everything,” Samberg said. The board also approved the district’s consolidated application for federal grants in an amount totaling about $2.284 million. “The consolidated grants are supplemental grants designed to support designated programs,” said Deputy Chief of Student Support and Innovative Programs Michelle Burton. “ The planning budget is approximately $300,000 less than the previous year, which is due to cuts to funding at the federal level. The board was then presented with a few informational items, including updates to the Student Code of Civility, which will now include both the Suicide and Crisis Hotline and the NC Peer Warmline, as well as brief messages concerning both.
A7 sure that companies cover 100% of costs. “Big tech companies are committing to fully cover the cost of increased electricity production required for AI data centers, and that would be prices for American communities will not go up, but in many cases will actually come down,” said President Donald Trump during a roundtable about the pledge. Alongside corporations, 23 Republican governors announced their support for the pledge and signed it. When asked why Stein did not follow suit, senior press secretary Onotse Omoyeni explained that Stein’s office “did not receive outreach from the administration about signing this pledge.” Omoyeni emphasized that “the pledge aligns closely with the recommendations of the Governor’s Energy Policy Task Force” and that “Governor Stein believes data centers need to pay their way so that North Carolina residents don’t bear the costs of their massive energy consumption.” The Energy Policy Task Force is a bipartisan group established by Stein in August 2025. The task force recommends developing options for large load tariffs, facilities bringing in their own local power resources and load flexibility programs to keep ratepayers from paying infrastructure expansion costs. Omoyeni added that when Stein signed the state budget, it eliminated the sales and use tax exemption for data centers’ electricity use. She also stated that Stein supports phasing out the exemption in place for equipment purchases.
“There are no actual changes to the Code of Civility, but I think this is a really good message that we’re going to be able to put on several of our documents, starting with the Code of Civility,” said Chief of Student Support Services Tracy Fowler. Additionally, as part of the introduction into the new school year, Superintendent Kelly Batten also laid out some of the district’s action items and expectations for 2026-27. It included increasing retesting participation by 3% or more for eligible students, reaching a 95% four-year graduation rate, maintaining or elevating the district’s current letter grades, achieving a 3% proficiency increase per student cohort, and meeting or exceeding school growth. Finally, Assistant Superintendent of Operations Chris Blice announced that he’d be retiring at the end of August. Blice has spent the past 45 years working in the educational field, including the past 18 working for Chatham County Schools. “I consider myself so fortunate to have been here for 18 years,” Blice said. “I’m more blessed than I could ever say.” The Chatham County Schools Board of Education will next meet Sept. 14.
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SILK HOPE RURITAN CLUB
Scholarship winners, from left to right, Sanyia White, Gracie Debnam, Mayson Walters, Grant W. Smith, Mallory Jones, Lilliana Hicks, Emily Dekaney, Carly Cardman, Reyna Nava Catalan, Landon Moser, Aidan Leysath and Abby McPherson (not pictured) pose with club president Michael Rogers. WINNERS from page A1 Money for club-sponsored scholarships comes from a variety of sources, including local bingo held every other Thursday night and proceeds from the Old Fashioned Farmers Days, the oldest running festival in Chatham County. Interest from a scholarship
fund set up by Gary and Kristen Sydnor is also a primary source for scholarship funds. The Rogers family knows firsthand the impact that a Ruritan scholarship can have, since his dad was one of the first recipients dating back to 1960, when he received $50 to attend Elon University in Alamance County.
A8
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
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POWELL SPRINGS APTS. Evergreen Construction introduces its newest independent living community for adults 55 years or older, 1 and 2 bedroom applications now being accepted. Office hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 919-533-6319 for more information, TDD #1-800-735-2962, Equal housing opportunity, Handicapped accessible. A2,tfnc
ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS now for onebedroom apartments, adults 55 years or older. Water included, appliances furnished, onsite laundry, elevator, keyless entry. Section 8 accepted. No security deposit. Application fee $25 per adult. Call Braxton Manor, 919-663-1877. Handicap accessible. Equal Housing Opportunity. J14,tfnc
AUCTIONS RICKY ELLINGTON AUCTIONEERS - Equipment, business, liquidation, estates, land, houses, antiques, personal property, coins, furniture, consignments, benefits, etc., NCAL #7706, 919548-3684, 919-663-3556. Jy6,tfnc
SERVICES RAINBOW WATER FILTERED VACUUMS, Alice Cox, Cox’s Distributing - Rainbow - Cell: 919-5484314, 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. 919-542-2803. A2,tfnc
LETT’S TREE SERVICE - tree removal, stump grinding, lot clearing. Visa & Master Card accepted. Timber. Free estimates. 919-258-3594. N9,tfnc
FOR SALE Chatham Memorial Park-2 plots available, Section 8, Lot 48, space C & D, $2,500 for both. Contact Chris 336-689-6618 4tc
PETS AKC-Registered English Bulldog Puppies for Adoption We have AKC-registered male and female English Bulldog puppies available for adoption. They are looking for loving, responsible forever homes. If you’re interested or would like more information, please contact: malyschristine65@outlook.com 2tc
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TAKE NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE A public hearing will be held by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners on Monday, August 17, 2026, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The public hearing will be held in the courtroom of the Historic Courthouse in Pittsboro, North Carolina at 9 Hillsboro Street, Pittsboro NC 27312. Additional information is available at the Chatham County Planning Department office. Speakers are requested to sign up at the meeting prior to the hearing. You may also sign up on the county website prior to the meeting at www.chathamcountync.gov by selecting the heading County Government, then Commissioner Meetings, then Public Comment. The public hearing may be continued to another date at the discretion of the Board of Commissioners.
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The purpose of the Public Hearing is to receive input, both written and oral, on the issues listed below. Legislative Request: A Legislative public hearing requested by Candace Beal for a General Use Rezoning to rezone parcel 4794 from CB-Community Business to R1-Residential, on 4.089 acres, located at 82 Bonlee Bennett Rd. A legislative public hearing requested for an amendment to revise the Chatham County Design Guidelines as recommended by the Chatham County Appearance Commission, provide a suggested plant list, and an invasive plant list for the development of commercial and industrial properties in the County. A public hearing requested by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners for text amendments to the Chatham County Zoning Ordinance; specifically, Section 1 Title, Section 3 Bona Fide Farm Exempt, Section 7.2 Definitions, Section 10.13 Zoning Table of Permitted Uses, Section 14 Off Street Parking and Loading, and Section 19 Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance. These amendments are intended to maintain compliance with recent legislative changes to G.S. 160D and other statutes related to the Zoning Ordinance (update bona fide farm exemptions and remove off street parking requirements), add all townships to the title, incorporate additional uses in the table of permitted uses, modify staff participation in legislative processes, and remove waiting period for application resubmittal. Testimony is required to be given under oath during the evidentiary hearing for the following item: Quasi-Judicial Request: A quasi-judicial public hearing for a Special Use Permit, requested by Anthemnet, Inc., for a new proposed 199 ft wireless telecommunications tower on Pacel 2834, located at 1879 Andrews Store Road. Substantial changes may be made following the public hearing due to verbal or written comments received or based on the Board’s discussions. Notice to people with special needs: If you have audio or visual impairment, unique accessibility requirements or need language assistance, please call the number listed below prior to the hearing and assistance may be provided. If you have any questions or comments concerning these issues, please call the Chatham County Planning Department at 919-542-8204, or write to P.O. Box 54, Pittsboro N.C. 27312.
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The Town of Pittsboro’s Amended Development Fees Ordinance for FY 2026-2027 has been submitted to the Board of Commissioners, and a copy is available for public inspection in the office of the Town Clerk, Town of Pittsboro Town Hall, 287 East Street, Suite 221, Pittsboro, NC. PB-26-225 – Third Time Around, LLC, have petitioned to have approximately 5.98 acres of land, Parcel 0006715 currently zoned Heavy Industrial (M-2) to be rezoned to Highway Commercial (C-2). The Future Land Use Plan designates this parcel Employment Mixed Use, within the Mixed-Use Activity Center. The property is located Here’s the information you requested on Dental insurance north and east of Powell Place subdivision, west of Hwy 15-501. FIRST-CLASS MAIL The hearing will be held in person. The public can watch the hearing live on the Town’s YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@townofpittsboronc/streams. Members of the public must attend in person if they wish to speak at the hearing.
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Contact the Town Clerk, Carrie Bailey, by 4 pm on August 10, 2026, with written comments or sign up to speak at the hearing. You can contact Carrie Bailey at cbailey@ pittsboronc.gov, (919) 984.282.6647, or PO Box 759, Pittsboro, NC 27312. O
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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
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TAKE NOTICE
NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The Siler City Board of Commissioners will hold a Community Forum on Monday, August 17, 2026, at First United Methodist Church, located at 1101 W. Raleigh Street. The forum will begin at 6:00 p.m. This informal event provides an opportunity for residents to share comments and questions on community topics for the Town to address. Because this is a public meeting, a quorum of the Board of Commissioners may be present; however, no official Town business will be conducted. For additional information, please contact Town Clerk Briana Martinez at bmartinez@silercity.gov or 9197268658.
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CHATHAM The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Marguerite Moffitt-Rogers, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, in Estate File No. 26E000325-180, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before November 6, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms or corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 6th day of August, 2026. Beverly M. Solomon, Administrator c/o 403 Blandwood Avenue Greensboro, NC 27401 August 6, 13, 20 and 27, 2026.
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY 26E000285-180 ALL persons having claims against STEPHEN RAY THOMAS, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Oct 16 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 16th day of July, 2026. LAURA THOMAS LUTTERLOH, CoExecutor THOMAS E LAYTON, Co-Executor C/O LAYTON & CARRAWAY, PA 680 Lutterloh Road Pittsboro, NC 27312 J16, 23, 30 and 6
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000174-180 The undersigned Victoria Wyatt Partin, having qualified on the 2nd Day of July 2026 as Administrator of the Estate of Kathleen V.Wyatt, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 16TH Day of October 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 16TH Day of July 2026. Victoria Wyatt Partin, Administrator 520 Rocky Hills Rd. Pittsboro, NC 27312 Run dates: Jy16,23,30,A6p
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000431-180 The undersigned, TIMOTHY ALLEN ENGLISH, having qualified on the 20TH Day of JULY 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of BETTY ENGLISH, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 30TH Day of October 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 30TH Day of July 2026. TIMOTHY ALLEN ENGLISH, EXECUTOR 1703 VINEYARD MIST DRIVE CARY, NC 27519 Run dates: Jy30,A6,13,20c
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Co-Executors of the Will of Jacqueleene Bowen Dobbins, a/k/a Jacqueleene B. Dobbins, Jacqueleene Dobbins, and Jackie Dobbins, late of Chapel Hill, Chatham County, North Carolina, the undersigned do hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at One West Fourth Street, Suite 1200, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, on or before the 23rd day of October, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 23rd day of July, 2026. JAMES TALMAGE DOBBINS, III, and STEVEN EARL DOBBINS, COEXECUTORS OF THE WILL OF JACQUELEENE BOWEN DOBBINS Kimberly H. Stogner Womble Bond Dickinson (US) LLP One West Fourth Street – 12th Floor Winston-Salem, NC 27101 July 23rd, 30th, August 6th and 13th, 2026
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Celine Danielle Levine Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Celine Danielle Levine, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 5842 Fayetteville Road, Suite 113, Durham, NC 27713, on or before the 24th day of October, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This is the 17th day of July, 2026 Shani Levine Cohen, Executor of the Estate of Celine Danielle Levine Dori J. Dixon Southpoint Estate Planning Attorney for the Estate 5842 Fayetteville Road, Suite 113 Durham, North Carolina, 27713 FOR PUBLICATION: 07/23/2026, 07/30/26, 08/06/26, 08/13/26
NOTICE
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA FILE NO: 26E000346-180 CHATHAM COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK ESTATE OF DONETTA JANE DELISLE EXECUTORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE UNDERSIGNED having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Donetta Jane Delisle, Deceased, in the Office of the Clerk of Superior Court of Chatham County, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Decedent to present the same to the undersigned on or before October 16, 2026, said date being at least three months from the date of the first publication or posting of this Notice as indicated below, or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment. This Notice is given pursuant to the provisions of G.S. 28A-14-1. This 7th day of July, 2026. Name and Address of Executor Brian Gordon 1460 Brentwood Way Earlysville MD 22936 Name and Address of Attorney: Steven Lundberg 1155 Kildaire Farm Rd, Ste. 204 Cary, NC 27511 Date of Publication: July 16, 23, 30, and August 6, 2026
Estate of Dwane Edward Porter AKA Dwane E. Porter, Chatham County Estate File No. 26E000401-180:
Notice to Creditors Estate of Truby Weldon Horton File No.: 25E000631-180 ALL PERSONS, firms and corporations having claims against Truby Weldon Horton, deceased, of Chatham County, NC, are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before November 2, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 30th day of July, 2026. Bryan Weldon Horton, Executor, in c/o Jenna Parkolap, Attorney, at Carolina Family Estate Planning, 51 Kilmayne Drive, Suite 200, Cary, NC 27511. Publication Dates: July 30, 2026 August 6, 2026 August 13, 2026 August 20, 2026
NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of JOHN M. LATIMER, JR., Deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate to exhibit them to the undersigned at the offices of Tillman, Whichard & Cagle, PLLC, 501 Eastowne Drive, Suite 130, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, on or before the 30th day of October, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment. This 30th day of July, 2026. HARRISON ARMISTEAD LATIMER, EXECUTOR ESTATE OF JOHN M. LATIMER, JR.
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF JAMES GUY COBLE, DECEASED, 26E000391-180 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against JAMES GUY COBLE, Deceased, are notified to exhibit them to MARK COBLE, ANCILLARY EXECUTOR for the decedent’s estate on or before the 21ST day of October, 2026, at the office of LOCKAMY LAW FIRM, P.A., Attorneys, 3130 Hope Valley Road, Durham, North Carolina 27707, Attention: MARK COBLE, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above-named estate c/o MARK COBLE, ANCILLARY EXECUTOR. MARK COBLE, ANCILLARY EXECUTOR of JAMES GUY COBLE, Deceased JOSHUA S. BARTON, Attorney LOCKAMY LAW FIRM, P.A. 3130 Hope Valley Road Durham, North Carolina 27707
All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Dwane Edward Porter AKA Dwane E. Porter, deceased, of Travis County, TX. with an estate in Chatham County, are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before October 16, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 16th of July, 2026. Rebecca Marie King, Ancillary Executor C/O Elizabeth Boyette, Boyette Law, PLLC 4509 Creedmoor Road Suite 201 Raleigh, NC 27612
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY ________________________________ ________________________________ ________ HAVING QUALIFIED as Executor of the Estate of Marcella Lauretta Culberson of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 5th day of November, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 29th day of July, 2026. Albert Tracy Culberson 2849 Silk Hope Liberty Road Siler City, North Carolina 27344 MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY ________________________________ ________________________________ ________ HAVING QUALIFIED as Administrator of the Estate of Marion Turner Hargrove, Jr. of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 28th day of October, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 23rd day of July, 2026. Pamela Lowe Hargrove 3035 Silk Hope Liberty Road Siler City, North Carolina 27344 MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA\ CHATHAM COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF\ CHRISTINE C. HORTON\ Estate File No. 26E000261-180 The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Christine C. Horton, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before October 30,2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the day of July 30, 2026. Douglas E Horton\ [Executor of the Estate of Christine C. Horton]\ 200 Caley Wilson Rd\ Apex, NC 27523\ Cell 919-815-0227
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000410-180 The undersigned, TERRI TALBOTT GUNTER, having qualified on the 7TH Day of JULY 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of CAROLYN MCDUFFIE TALBOTT, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 23RD Day of October 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 23RD Day of July 2026. TERRI TALBOTT GUNTER, EXECUTOR 179 ASHBURY CHURCH RD. SANFORD, NC 27330 Run dates: Jy23,30,A6,13p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000294-180 The undersigned, SHEREESE R. MYERS, having qualified on the 19TH Day of MAY 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of CLARISSA T. NEAL, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 23RD Day of October 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 23RD Day of July 2026. SHEREESE R. MYERS, ADMINISTRATOR 2012 RAJ DR. DURHAM, NC 27703 Run dates: Jy23,30,A6,13p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000418-180 The undersigned, EMEILIA WICKER ELLIS, having qualified on the 14TH Day of July 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of DANA L. WICKER, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 23RD Day of October 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 23RD Day of July 2026. EMEILIA WICKER ELLIS, ADMINISTRATOR 7695 SILER CITY SNOW CAMP RD SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: Jy23,30,A6,13p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000424-180 The undersigned, WALTER CALVIN WRENN, having qualified on the 16TH Day of JULY 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of TABITHA H. WRENN, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 23RD Day of October 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 23RD Day of July 2026. WALTER CALVIN WRENN, ADMINISTRATOR 1183 EDDIE PERRY ROAD PITTSBORO, NC 27312 Run dates: Jy23,30,A6,13p
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000453-180 The undersigned, TODD PADGETT NORRIS, having qualified on the 28TH Day of JULY 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of FREDDIE HART, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 6TH Day of NOVEMBER 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 6TH Day of AUGUST 2026. TODD PADGETT NORRIS, EXECUTOR 1205 RIVER FOREST RD. PITTSBORO, NC 27312 Run dates: A6,13,20,27p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000414-180 The undersigned MARY COX, having qualified on the 13TH Day of July 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of SUSAN FRANCES REA, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 23RD Day of October 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 23RD Day of July 2026. MARY COX, EXECUTOR 84 LITTLE CREEK LANE SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: Jy23,30,A6,13p
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000449-180 The undersigned, RALPH C. MILLS, having qualified on the 27TH Day of JULY 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of JOYCE ANN DAVIS, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 30TH Day of October 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 30TH Day of July 2026. RALPH C. MILLS, EXECUTOR 7021 CARPENTER FIRE STATION ROAD CARY, NC 27519 Run dates: Jy30,A6,13,20p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000390-180 The undersigned Antoinette DiBenedetto having qualified on the 30th Day of June 2026 as Executor of the Estate of Libby Ann Capaldi deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 16th Day of October 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 16th Day of July 2026. ANTOINETTE DIBENEDETTO, EXECUTOR 517 OAKWOOD AVE. RALEIGH, NC 27601 Run dates: Jy16,23,30,A6p
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000419-180 The undersigned, TRICIA HATHCOCK, having qualified on the 14TH Day of JULY 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of PATRICK HOWELL GARNER, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 6TH Day of NOVEMBER 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 6TH Day of AUGUST 2026. TRICIA HATHCOCK, ADMINISTRATOR 687 SHERIFF WATSON RD. SANFORD, NC 27332 Run dates: A6,13,20,27p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000409-180 The undersigned, JILL POPE CAGLE, having qualified on the 7TH Day of JULY 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of DORIS POPE TANT, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 23RD Day of October 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 23RD Day of July 2026. JILL POPE CAGLE, EXECUTOR 145 CEDAR RUN PITTSBORO, NC 27312 Run dates: Jy23,30,A6,13p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000412-180 The undersigned Audrey Diane May Braswell, having qualified on the 9th Day of July 2026 as Executor of the Estate of John H. May, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 16TH Day OF October 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 16TH Day of July 2026. AUDREY DIANE MAY BRASWELL 1837 MONCURE PITTSBORO RD. MONCURE, NC 27559 Run dates: Jy16,23,30,A6p
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000413-180 The undersigned, JESSE SEAGROVES, having qualified on the 20TH Day of JULY 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of STELLA B SEAGROVES, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 23RD Day of October 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 23RD Day of July 2026. JESSE SEAGROVES, EXECUTOR 3800 MCLAURIN ROAD BEAR CREEK, NC 27207 Run dates: Jy23,30,A6,13p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000421-180 The undersigned, CAROL A. CHESLAK, having qualified on the 14TH Day of JULY 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of EDWARD ALAN BARNES, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 23RD Day of October 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 23RD Day of July 2026. CAROL A. CHESLAK, EXECUTOR 2326 VALENCIA TERR CHARLOTTE, NC 28226 Run dates: Jy23,30,A6,13p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000381-180 The undersigned ROSS D. THRAILKILL, having qualified on the 1ST Day of July 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of WILLIAM BENTON THRAILKILL, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 16TH Day of October 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 16TH Day of July 2026. ROSS D. THRAILKILL, EXECUTOR 220 THRAILKILL LANE PITTSBORO, NC 27312 Run dates: Jy16,23,30,A6p
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000411-180 The undersigned Gwendolyn Jones York having qualified on the 8th Day of July 2026 as Executor of the Estate of William Mike York, Jr., deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 16TH Day OF October 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 16TH Day of July 2026. GWENDOLYN JONES YORK, EXECUTOR 41 OAKMONT LANE SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: Jy16,23,30,A6p
NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF Kathryn Haeng Nan Kim All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Kathryn Haeng Nan Kim, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are notified to exhibit them to Grace Kim as Administrator of the decedent’s estate on or before October 24, 2026, c/o Janet B. Witchger, Attorney at Law, 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the abovenamed Executor. This the 23rd day of July 2026. Grace Kim, Administrator c/o Janet B. Witchger, Atty. TrustCounsel 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203 Chapel Hill, NC 27517
NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Mae Geraldine Stats, Deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate to exhibit them to the undersigned at the offices of Munson Law Firm PLLC, P.O. Box 1811 Pittsboro, NC 27312, on or before the 23rd day of October, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment. This 23rd day of July, 2026. CHRISTOPHER K. SMITH, ADMINISTRATOR ESTATE OF MAE GERALDINE STATS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000404-180 The undersigned TARA GAINES BURNS AND BEN PHILIP GAINES, JR., having qualified on the 7TH Day of JULY 2026 as Co-Executors of the Estate of BEN PHILIP GAINES, SR., deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 16TH Day OF OCTOBER 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 16TH DAY OF JULY 2026. TARA GAINES BURNS, CO-EXECUTOR 4456 THOMPSON MILL RD. GRAHAM, NC 27253 MAIL TO: BEN PHILIP GAINES, JR., CO-EXECUTOR PO BOX 56 GOLDSTON, NC 27252 Run dates: Jy16,23,30,A6p
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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Unexpected encounter makes return to Provence memorable A detour worth taking By Erika Hoffman For Chatham News & Record “IT’S WORTH the trip” is a common French expression and the translation of “ça vaut le détour.” Perhaps it implies that “it’s worth going out of your way for a side trip.” Anybody who travels frequently knows that sometimes an unplanned stop, an unexpected occurrence or an unanticipated encounter with strangers along the trek turns out well. Sometimes not, especially if they’re pickpockets. In May, my husband and I took a river cruise in Provence, France. NC Travel of Siler City arranged it. We flew to Lyon, where we were to board the river vessel appropriately named Amadeus Provence. At our age, we prefer to arrive in the port city a day or two ahead of the boat’s departure. Nowadays, one never knows if planes will fly at their scheduled time; if your luggage will mysteriously desert you; if your flight will be canceled; if newfangled hoops to jump through, such as ETA, will stymie you; if, upon arrival at your destination airport, your transport to your hotel will be waiting to whisk you away; or if no prearranged transport is available, you might
LAURENT CIPRIANI / AP PHOTO
People bathe in the Saone River in Lyon, central France. encounter trouble hailing a legit taxi. So much can go awry! Also, we’re old and don’t even play pickleball. Ergo, how are we in shape to scurry through clogged-with-people terminals, especially when one’s gate shifts to another within 30 minutes of departure? This happened at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. Huffing and puffing, we reached our assigned gate. There, a sign greeted us that should have read “Lyon” but now read “Stockholm.” As we rushed to the newly changed departure gate for the short flight to Lyon,
“Would you buy me a cup?” A stranger at the Lyon train station we passed an obstacle course of worried Swedes hightailing it to their newly assigned gate, where we had just been. Anyway, we arrived in Lyon on May 3 for our cruise leaving on May 6. On May 4, we met with our
hotel’s concierge, an impeccably dressed dandy who wore a tie and vest that matched the blue-and-white pattern of the hotel drapes and furnishings. He was extremely helpful in reserving train tickets for us from Gare de Lyon-Part-Dieu to Aix-en-Provence. At the train station, where I saw armed guards with machine guns, a fellow rummaging through trash cans caught my attention. Next thing I knew, he had sat down beside me and started a conversation after asking my name. He told us how he was once married to a wealthy socialite from Palm Beach, Florida, who had been an equestrian and was killed in a steeplechase accident. He prattled on in good English while we focused on the blue screens that announce which “voie” — track — will hold your train. You are not permitted to ascend the escalators to the tracks until your number has flashed up on the screen. This fellow, who I first thought was a “down-on-his-luck bum,” mentioned that he knew nine languages, had been educated in New Haven and had lived in numerous U.S. cities like Boca Raton, Florida. All cities he named were wealthy enclaves. He’d been born in Uruguay. This stranger started each sentence by calling me by my first name, which he’d asked for early on. “Erika ...” He wanted our attention. Finally, the screen flashed our track number. Our new acquaintance must have been aware of this because suddenly he asked if we wanted him to get us coffee. We declined. Then he said he’d like a cup. “Would you buy me a cup?” he asked.
FBI investigates as Michigan joins Minnesota in reporting cyberattacks on water systems The attacks come amid federal warnings about Iranian hackers targeting water systems By Michael Casey The Associated Press MICHIGAN on Saturday joined Minnesota in reporting cyberattacks on nine of the state’s water systems, but an official said all systems were operating “safely.” Earlier this week, authorities said cyberattacks targeted more than 30 water systems in Minnesota. The source of the attacks is being investigated, but they came amid warnings that Iranian hackers have been focused on such systems. The reports in Michigan surfaced after the state received a federal cyber alert Tuesday about attempts to tamper with operational technology at water systems. Soon after, the state received “a small number of reports from Michigan communities indicating activity consistent with what federal agencies described,” said Dale George, the director of communications
I handed him five euros. He was off to purchase a cup. We left for our train platform. On the platform, we spotted a diagram that told you where to position yourself so that you could enter through the car’s door nearest your exact seat. Two young men sat across from us. One wore a Disney wristlet, the other wore a hoodie. The hooded one told us where to stand to hail a taxi to drive us to Aix-en-Provence. Our taxi driver, Alex, let us off at La Rotonde on the Cours Mirabeau, which is now for pedestrians only. He told us he could meet us back at the same spot at 5 p.m. to return us to the train station. Excellent. We found tiny public buses, A, B and C, that had different itineraries around Aix, a town of narrow streets. We took “B” twice. The first trip, I spotted 15 rue Cardinale, where the Vanderbilt-in-France program held its classes. The second time, the driver stopped for me so I could take a picture of where I studied French decades ago. So before our planned vacation began, our little “detour” to my old college haunting ground helped me remember that semester abroad so long ago. On top of those memories, I learned something new: Someone rummaging through garbage at a train depot might have a good story — or many — to tell. This fellow reminded me of that old Coleridge poem, “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner,” and maybe, too, a more recent version of that premise of a stranger seeking out people on a park bench to whom to tell his tale: “Forrest Gump.” Ça vaut le détour!
at the state’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. He later said nine systems were impacted. “All systems continued to operate safely, issues were addressed by local operators, and there are no known impacts that posed a public health concern,” George said in a statement. The FBI, which is investigating, has not publicly identified a culprit, and a spokesperson declined to say last Thursday who the bureau thought might be responsible. The FBI, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and other agencies warned in an advisory last week that Iranian hackers have been targeting water and wastewater systems and the operational controls of other critical infrastructure sectors. “The FBI is aware of recent public reporting around Water and Wastewater (WWS) sectors,” the agency said in a statement Saturday. “The FBI and our interagency partners are fully engaged to protect critical infrastructure and we remain well-equipped to protect against cyber threats of all varieties.” Digital warfare has become
ingrained in military conflict, and local water plants or healthcare facilities often lack the funds and know-how to install the latest software patches or take other security steps. That has made them a favorite target, both because of the relative ease of penetrating them and because of the panic such disruptions can cause. Iran’s interest in the operations of water systems inside the U.S. dates back years. In 2016, the Justice Department charged a group of Iranian hackers in connection with
a cyberattack targeting a small dam near New York City. Minnesota IT Services said that as of last Thursday, there were no active requests from Minnesota communities for residents to modify usage of their drinking water. The state agency said most of the confirmed attacks involved technology that water systems use to remotely monitor and control equipment. It said that being impacted meant investigators confirmed there was malicious activity involving the system’s technology and didn’t mean ev-
ery impacted community had their water service disrupted. For a few hours Monday, the city of Braham asked residents to minimize water use as it tried to determine why the water plant was offline. The city of about 1,700 people, located about 70 miles north of Minneapolis, said in a news release that the water plant outage was due to a cyberattack, but it didn’t cause any issue with water quality. The city said the attackers shut down the operating controls that shut down the well and water treatment plant. That left the city for a time only able to provide residents with the water held in the water tower. In Plymouth, a city of about 80,000 located outside of Minneapolis, officials said on social media that their water infrastructure communications had been restored by Tuesday afternoon following a cyberattack. During a Cabinet meeting last Friday at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland, President Donald Trump claimed without evidence that recent cyberattacks in Minnesota were the fault of the state, including Democratic Gov. Tim Walz. Walz responded on social media, saying Trump “knows exactly who is responsible for this attack, and knows that other states were hit too.”
of Trust, upon death 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 was $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; WHEREAS, the foreclosure sale was originally scheduled for July 16, 2026 at 11:00 A.M., but has been adjourned until August 14, 2026 pursuant to 12 U.S.C. 3760(c); 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 Friday, August 14, 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 $487,251.04. 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 $48,725.10 in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made out to the Secretary of HUD. A deposit need not accompany each oral bid. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of $48,725.10 must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within 30 days of the 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 certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the highest bidder, he need not to pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all the conveying fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery date of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of
title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them. The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extensions will be for 15day increments for a fee of $500.00, paid in advance. The extension fee shall be in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of HUD. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due. If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder may be required to forfeit the cash deposit or, at the election of the foreclosure commissioner after consultation with the HUD representative, will be liable to HUD for any costs incurred as a result of such failure. The Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD representative, offer the property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder. There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the ACT. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein. HUD does not guarantee that the property will be vacant. The scheduled foreclosure sale shall be canceled or adjourned if it is established, by documented written
application of the mortgagor to the Foreclosure Commissioner not less than 3 days before the date of sale, or otherwise, that the default or defaults upon which the foreclosure is based did not exist at the time of services of this notice of default and foreclosure sale, or all amounts due under the mortgage agreement are tendered to the Foreclosure Commissioner, in the form of a certified or cashier’s check payable to the Secretary of HUD, before public auction of the property is completed. The amount that must be paid if the mortgage is to be reinstated prior to the scheduled sale was $475,098.63 as of June 11, 2026, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in giving notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner’s attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement. Tender of payment by certified or cashier’s check or application for cancellation of the foreclosure sale shall be submitted to the address of the Foreclosure Commissioner provided below. Riley, Pope & Laney, PLLC David A. Simpson NC Managing Partner 101 E. Matthews St, Suite 900 Matthews, NC 28105 T: (980) 201-3888 61088
“All systems continued to operate safely, issues were addressed by local operators, and there are no known impacts that posed a public health concern.” ELLEN SCHMIDT / AP PHOTO
Cyberattacks on water systems are becoming more prevalent.
Dale George, director of communications at Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy
TAKE NOTICE NOTICE NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND RESCHEDULED FORECLOSURE SALE WHEREAS, on June 5, 2015, a certain Deed of Trust was executed by Walter Breyer and Judith K. Breyer as grantor in favor of Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as mortgagee, as nominee for One Reverse Mortgage, LLC, its successors and assigns as beneficiary and Michael Lyon as trustee, and was recorded on June 9, 2015 in Book 01801 at Page 0227 in the Office of the Register of Deeds, Chatham County, North Carolina; and WHEREAS, the Deed of Trust was insured by the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (the Secretary) pursuant to the National Housing Act for the purpose of providing single family housing; and WHEREAS, the beneficial interest in the Deed of 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 office 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 as follows: That under Paragraph 6(A)(i) of the above-referenced Note and Paragraph 10(A)(i) of the above-referenced Deed
CHATHAM SPORTS
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Jordan-Matthews leading receiver Nolan Mitchell stretches out to catch a pass in a game against Carrboro last season. Mitchell will be catching passes for Chatham Central this year.
Updates needed in transfer rules for high school athletes Pressure to excel has players seeking greener pigskin pastures By Michael Jaenicke Chatham News & Record BEULAVILLE — Even those people living under a seashell at the beach heard the news about DJ Davis transferring from East
Duplin to Harrells Christian Academy. Unlike professional sports, these Panthers did not gain by the transaction by having a dip in their salary cap. HCA did what it could and played within the rules. But the timing of it all — the first official week of practice — is a bit of a mind-bender. Battle Holley had no doubt
been working with Davis throughout the summer. It hurts because after losing Shawn Davis, the team’s leading rusher the past three seasons (3,830, 58 TDs), and Aaron Hall (919 yards, 10 TDs), ED was without a doubt counting on Dewayne “DJ” Davis to be a key contributor this fall. He rushed for 383 yards and seven touchdowns with 92 tack-
Time for fall sports already Aug. 10 is opening day, the earliest in recent memory
See RULES, page B2
NCHSAA selects next commissioner The transition for the governing body will take place across a couple of months
Chatham News & Record staff IT MAY be the shortest summer ever. Fall sports will begin for area high schools next week, marking the earliest opening day in recent memory. Games can begin Aug. 10, a day earlier than last year and representing a creep of more than a week compared to the years immediately following the pandemic. Practices began July 29, also one of the earliest start dates in memory, and Aug. 10 is the green light for cross-country, girls’ tennis, golf and volleyball, as well as boys’ soccer. Football’s Week 1 is Aug. 21, although teams can hold scrimmages starting Friday, which is not the earliest ever. Schools opened their seasons Aug. 18 in 2023. All of the local schools will be taking advantage of the new start dates. Jordan-Matthews opens its volleyball season Aug. 10, hosting Lee County. Chatham Central heads to Northwood. Chatham Charter hosts Providence Grove. Seaforth and Woods Charter are the only area schools to hold off. Seaforth opens its season Aug. 11 at Northwood, while Woods waits until the following day to host Cummings. Boys’ soccer has a slower rush
les and four interceptions on defense. The rising senior was slated to be the starting quarterback in Beulaville before his change of heart. And perhaps it’s a good move for him since he will still be working in the Wing-T offense, though both teams throw the ball equally, as ED’s Branson Norris was 40 of 88 for 628
yards and 12 touchdowns, while HCA grad Reid Strickland had very comparable statistics — 43-86 for 823 yards and 12 touchdowns. Defensively, Davis is a top athlete who could help any program. DJ Davis will join running back Jeremiah Davis (103-1,143 yards, 14 TDs) in the Crusaders backfield. While NCHSAA schools frequently lose players to NCISAA schools, player movement has started to mirror what is going on in the NCAA. Transferring is now easier than it has ever been. It’s almost as if anything flies.
Chatham News & Record staff
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Northwood volleyball huddles up during an August 2025 game. The wait to watch the Chargers, as well as the other local schools, is shorter than ever this summer. to the start line. Seaforth and Northwood both open Aug. 11, Jordan-Matthews on Aug. 13. Chatham Charter and Woods Charter wait even longer to hit the pitch. Most girls’ tennis teams in
the area will be opening their seasons on Aug. 11, and no cross-country or golf squads appear to be taking advantage of the earlier start date. They’ll wait until later in the month to get rolling.
CHAPEL HILL — Brad Alford will be the next commissioner of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association, replacing retiring Que Tucker on Oct. 1. Alford is director of the Office of Athletics for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, where he oversees statewide governance and administration of interscholastic athletics for North Carolina’s public schools. He also serves as the state superintendent’s designee for interscholastic athletics and represents NCDPI on the NCHSAA board of directors. Beginning as an intern in 2010, Alford spent nearly 15 years in various roles with the NCHSAA. Alford will be part of a transition period beginning Aug. 24, working alongside Tucker. He’ll be the association’s eighth commissioner for an organization that is more than 100 years old. Tucker has been commissioner since 2015. According to the NCHSAA, Alford helped oversee championship operations, sport administration, compliance, governance and major statewide initiatives during his previous time with the association. He was a Southern Durham High School graduate before earning an undergraduate degree from Mount Olive and master’s degree in sport management from East Carolina.
COURTESY NCHSAA
Brad Alford
B2
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Gabby White
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Nigerian national team Gabby White is a 2025 graduate of Seaforth, where she starred on the girls’ basketball team and led the Hawks to the state title game in 2023. White will play with the Nigerian national team on a tour of Asia this month. White, who transferred from UVA to UNC in the offseason, played for Team Nigeria earlier this spring in a series of exhibition games against WNBA teams. She scored 16 points with seven rebounds in a game against the Minnesota Lynx and seven points with four assists and two steals against the Los Angeles Sparks. White trained in Chicago with the team, which is on their way to China where they’ll play a series of games through Aug. 15. Nigeria is preparing for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin in September.
RULES from page B1 Forget about the NCHSAA’s transfer policy of sitting out. Every offseason is now a free-for-all. It’s not about a family moving to another town or city anymore. Yet local school districts are allowed to create their own criteria to override state guidelines. “I have no issue with a kid if it helps him develop,” said Hobbton head coach Adam Scronce, a longtime offensive coordinator at WRH who learned under the late Jack Holley. “What bothers me is we are not teaching kids to be resilient and handle situations. Kids don’t want to work for it anymore. They don’t want to fight through, they want to run to where it’s easier.” Transfers are everywhere. Of the eight football teams in the state finals in 2024, only two did not have a transfer player. In basketball, half the teams that played in the Final Four had a transfer player. Clearly, the entire state should have open enrollment or it should be prohibited everywhere. Some states have open enrollment. Others have a sit-out year. Some allow one transfer with immediate eligibility. It’s also been suggested that transfers sit out a number of days or weeks before getting playing time at their new school. Yet forcing a player to sit out will drive athletes to NCISAA schools. Coaches are in a predicament. Should they apologize for having a winning program? What comes next is players flocking to a super power school. But is that wrong on the part of the athlete or his parents? Coaches also feel robbed of a player they might have developed. Yet there are far too many players who “run,” and their parents can be the cause. Parents want the best for their children and often feel they are better than what the coach says when he watches tapes of a game on Saturdays and Sundays. Players and parents, who act like all-knowing general managers, are more empowered than ever. Think LaVar Ball and double his insanity. Prep players can also switch from NCISAA to NCHSAA when the parent signs a document. For instance, fullback/linebacker Jarrod Miller (694 yards, 11 TDs) left HCA for Wallace-Rose Hill this summer. Transfers can also be thought of in the same manner as classifications. They exist because it’s not fair for North Duplin,
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Matthew Victorino looks for the play call during a Jordan-Matthews game last year. He transferred to Chatham Central over the offseason. a school 10 students shy of being a 1A, to compete with a 3A such as Whiteville. Perhaps in a scrimmage, but not in a game — and that’s not dishing on the Rebels. Clinton’s quarterback in 2025 bolted for Southview after transferring in for one season with the Dark Horses. So, “go where it’s best for you” is the lesson. New NCHSAA Commissioner Brad Alford will have to deal with this issue after taking over for Que Tucker a month ago. Another hot topic is the battle cry for all private and charter schools to have their own state championships, independent of what the bulk of the 400 or so NCHSAA schools do. Coaches screaming the loudest are in 1A and 2A. Former North Duplin football coach Ken Avent had a reasonable solution to classification fairness when he said charter and private schools should take the classification of the largest school in their county. Yet transfers abound and will likely only multiply until new rules are adopted. This alone would stop school administrators from investigating the home of a potential transfer to prove residency. While it’s an interesting and touchy topic, expect to hear more about transfers in the next few years.
“It’s hard to compete with power programs getting transfers because the playing field isn’t level,” Scronce said. In the past, every school has used transfer players. Today, schools are recruiting, and players are on the hunt to move to the best possible school for their athletic skills. It’s time to enforce the rules and make new ones that don’t make schools look like thieves in the night. In fact, many schools have joined the Transfer Bowl, perhaps out of necessity. When a neighboring school or rival does it, the balance of power shifts. And in many cases, the so-called “cheaters or rule-breakers” benefit enough to continue their ways, almost forcing others to follow. Something has to change. New Jersey, for example, has a one-time transfer portal. Alford and other state associations have a lot of work to do. Yet the rules need to be the same for one and all states. While there is more to this story than meets the eye of the public, here’s a quick solution: Make transfers sit out three games and have open enrollment among all schools. Yet even that is so far removed from the way it has always been done.
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
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Panthers remain mum on Young’s contractual future The team thinks the quarterback’s ceiling is unknown entering Year 4 By Steve Reed The Associated Press CHARLOTTE — The Carolina Panthers remain tight-lipped about the long-term contractual future of quarterback Bryce Young as he prepares to enter his fourth NFL season. Panthers executive vice president of football operations Brandt Tilis said he felt Young “ascended” to a new level last season while adding that the 25-year-old’s ceiling is still “unknown.” After being benched early in his second season, the No. 1 overall pick in 2023 responded by throwing for 3,011 yards with 23 touchdowns and 11 interceptions last year while going 8-8 as a starter and leading the Panthers to an NFC South championship. Still, Young appears ready to enter the season without a long-term contract in place. He is under contract this season for slightly more than $12 million. The team can pick up the fifth-year option on Young at any time, which would mean paying him a projected $25.9 million in 2027. But three years in, this is normally the time when NFL
“I would say he ascended last year and there is still room for him to ascend.” Brandt Tilis, Panthers EVP of football operations teams consider locking up a quarterback they drafted high — or one they consider a franchise-type player — with a long-term deal. “I would say he ascended last year, and there is still room for him to ascend,” said Tilis, who was the lead negotiator for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2020 when they locked up Patrick Mahomes with a 10-year, $477 million deal. “His ceiling is currently unknown, and I think that is exciting for us. He’s working hard to get himself there.” When asked if the Panthers should have a better idea of where Young’s ceiling is by now, Tilis responded, “Not necessarily. The team is growing, too. He’s going to ascend as the team ascends, and vice versa. The team is going to get better. So it’s all good.” Tilis said Young is well-positioned to continue developing this season. “The team is better, the coaches are good — Bryce is
putting in the work, too. So it’s all there,” Tilis said. “We will just see how the year plays out. I think we are all really excited for what Bryce is going to show and how the team is going to do.” When asked if that’s an indication the team may wait until after the season to consider a contract extension for Young, Tilis remained coy, saying those are discussions that will remain inside the organization and be discussed privately among himself, general manager Dan Morgan, head coach Dave Canales and team owner David Tepper. “I want what is best for the organization, so that is not for me (solely) to decide,” Tilis said. “It’s collaborative.” Canales: Young playing faster, making quicker decisions Canales said he’s “really excited” to see what Young will do entering his third year in the current offensive system after watching him at training camp. “The special plays still show up every day, moving up the spot, pushing up in the pocket, layering balls, all the accuracy — but the part that I’ve been really impressed with this camp is just his chemistry with our receivers,” Canales said. Canales added Young is “playing so much faster” and making quicker decisions.
SCOTT KINSER / AP PHOTO
Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young walks to the field during training camp. “It just seems like he’s eliminating things before the snap,” Canales said. “On his drop, he’s starting to eliminate and evaluate things and throwing really anticipatory throws. ... So I love
Packers offensive tackle changing name The former Wake Forest standout is switching from Zach Tom to Zach Bako-Bewele The Associated Press
DAVID DERMER / AP PHOTO
Green Bay Packers offensive tackle Zach Tom, now Bako-Bewele, looks to block during a November game last season.
GREEN BAY, Wis. — The Green Bay Packers’ starting right tackle is changing his name from Zach Tom to Zach Bako-Bewele as a way of paying tribute to his Nigerian ancestry. Bako-Bewele told reporters Bako is the last name of his father’s mother and Bewele is the last name of his father’s father. He said the process toward changing his name began around March. “Just doing some research, talking to my dad a little bit, I wanted to have a name that represented where I came from, my ancestry, just get back to my roots,” the 2022 fourth-round pick from Wake Forest said. Bako-Bewele said he had
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where he’s headed. I love that he’s all in. He seems to be really enjoying it, and so we just keep taking it a day at a time and try to challenge ourselves that way.”
been thinking about doing this for a few years, “probably back since college at least.” He started researching it more this offseason. “Especially when I start having kids and stuff, I want to have a name that I can pass down where it represents where they came from, where I came from,” Bako-Bewele said. “I just feel like that name will, people will see that name and have a good understanding of who I am, where I come from.” He’s still going through all the various steps involved in this type of decision. “I’ve got to get like a new Social Security card, new driver’s license, all that stuff,” he said. “So it’s still not technically finalized yet, but we’re right there.” Bako-Bewele has been Green Bay’s starting right tackle since 2023. He has been working his way back this offseason while recovering from surgery to a partially torn patellar tendon that limited him to 12 games last year. He said Sunday that he hopes to start participating in team drills “within a week or so.”
B4 SIDELINE REPORT NBA
Green agrees to 1-year, $27.7M contract to remain with Warriors San Francisco Draymond Green has reportedly agreed to a one-year, $27.7 million deal to return to the Golden State Warriors. Green will sign the deal that essentially matches the deal he opted out of last month before the Warriors made an unsuccessful bid to sign LeBron James. Green is now set to play his 15th season with the Warriors. If he plays in 51 games, he will join Stephen Curry as the only players in franchise history to appear in at least 1,000 contests.
NFL
Vikings suspend new DB coach Alexander for 3 weeks following drunken driving charge The Minnesota Vikings suspended defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander for three weeks without pay following a drunken driving charge in April. Alexander’s suspension will be in effect until Aug. 13, two days before their first preseason game. Alexander, a Carolina Panthers player in 2010, pled guilty July 16 to a gross misdemeanor charge of third-degree driving while impaired. He was arrested at about 4 a.m. after his vehicle was stopped in the middle of an intersection in a Minneapolis suburb. He was allegedly unresponsive and failed field sobriety tests.
LPGA
Kuwaki of Japan wins the Women’s British Open on second playoff hole Lytham St. Annes, England Shiho Kuwaki of Japan saved par to stay alive in a sudden-death playoff and then won with a par on the second extra hole to claim the Women’s British Open over Esther Henseleit of Germany for her first major title. Kuwaki closed with a 1-under 70 and looked like a winner in regulation until Henseleit holed a 40-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole at Royal Lytham & St. Annes for a 70 to join Kuwaki at 5-under 279.
MLB
A’s place rookie Kuroda-Grauer on injured list following surgery for ruptured testicle The Athletics placed rookie infielder Joshua Kuroda-Grauer on the 10-day injured list following emergency surgery for a ruptured testicle caused by a foul ball the night before. The A’s said Kuroda-Grauer was resting comfortably a day after fouling a ball into his groin in the fifth inning of their 5-2 win over the Diamondbacks. Kuroda-Grauer fell to the ground in pain but stayed in the game and managed to hit a single before being replaced at third base.
WNBA
Post showing Bueckers, Reese betting on game “missed the mark” The WNBA says a social media post showing stars Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese betting $400 on the outcome of a game between their teams “missed the mark.” The players reportedly won’t be punished for the bet. The league posted the video from All-Star Weekend, days before Bueckers’ Dallas Wings and Reese’s Atlanta Dream were set to play. The clip featured Bueckers and Reese placing what appeared to be a personal wager on the game. The WNBA deleted the post, but not before it was shared on social media.
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Women’s Professional Baseball League debuts in front of enthusiastic crowd The league is the first pro women’s baseball league in the U.S. in 30 years By Jay Cohen The Associated Press SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Sarah Hodel and Rachel Koehler arrived at Robin Roberts Stadium more than four hours before the first game of the Women’s Professional Baseball League. Once inside, Hodel stopped periodically for pictures as she walked along the concourse. She wanted to savor every moment. “Back in high school I was on my speech team, and my informative speech was on women in baseball,” said Hodel, a 43-year-old athletic trainer from Duluth, Minnesota. “So as soon as I saw this happening a couple years ago it was my goal to come.” That moment finally arrived, when Mo’ne Davis and the Los Angeles Queens rallied for a 10-8 victory over Denae Benites and the New York Heights in a rainy debut for the first women’s professional baseball league in the United States in almost 30 years. “Growing up I played softball,” said Koehler, 33, of St. Paul, Minnesota. “I wanted to play baseball because going professional was always like the dream, but there (were) no opportunities. ... So now that that’s actually an opportunity and something that girls can look up to, I think is amazing.” Maggie Foxx picked up the league’s first hit on a two-run single for Los Angeles in the first inning. Benites connected for the WPBL’s first homer, a two-run drive to center in the bottom of the fourth. The Queens trailed 8-4 before scoring two runs in the sixth and four more in wet and windy conditions for the final frame of the seven-inning contest. “When I walked on the field I started crying because of how much this moment meant and how much it meant to everybody,” Foxx said. “It means everything to us.” A steady rain fell for much of the day, soaking the 101-year-old home of the WPBL’s inaugural season. But much of the crowd of more than 4,000 started lining up hours before the game.
LEXIE KNIGHT / AP PHOTO
New York Heights’ Natsuki Yonetani, right, celebrates while Los Angeles Queens’ Amira Hondras, left, fails to tag her during the third inning of the inaugural Women’s Professional Baseball League game. The line for the main merchandise booth stretched all the way to the outfield along one side of the ballpark. “Having a daughter, it’s really exciting to give her exposure to female professional athletes,” said Antonietta Mabry, 47, an accountant from Columbus, Ohio. “It’s such a rare thing, so it’s really cool to give her some really positive female role models and examples.” Mabry was accompanied by her husband, Jason, and their daughter, Rosalee. Nine-year-old Mabry got her glove autographed by San Francisco second baseman Amanda Gianelloni. The Firebells and Boston Hunters — the league’s other two teams — play on Sunday. A couple of players from each team helped the grounds crew pull the tarp off the field after the rain subsided. “I’m excited to be here because I play softball and I really like it and it’s really cool that I get to see profession-
“When I walked on the field I started crying because of how much this moment meant.” Maggie Foxx al women play,” Rosalee Mabry said. The WPBL paid tribute to the past, present and future of women’s baseball during a rain-delayed pregame ceremony. The crowd cheered as the lineups for the Queens and Heights were announced. But the biggest ovation of the night was for 99-year-old Maybelle Blair, who threw a ceremonial first pitch to San Francisco’s Kelsie Whitmore, one of the biggest stars of the WPBL. Blair, who serves on a WPBL advisory board, played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, which ran from 1943-54 and inspired the
Dodgers land Cy Young ace Skubal in deadline deal Los Angeles sent three prospects to Detroit
“I’m excited to get down there and meet all those guys and chase three championships in a row.”
By Josh Dubow The Associated Press SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired the biggest prize on the trade deadline market, getting two-time reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers. Skubal got the news during the game and was emotional after the game as he prepared to leave the team that drafted him in 2018 and developed him into a star to join the two-time defending World Series champions. “I’m excited to be a Dodger,” he said. “I’m excited to get down there and meet all those guys and chase three championships in a row. That’s hard to do, so I’m so excited to be a part of that. It’s a lot of different emotions. Definitely kind of a roller coaster a little bit.” Skubal is the latest star to join the high-priced roster for the Dodgers that already has big-name players like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Mookie Betts. The Dodgers are in first place in the NL West and were already the favorites to become the first team to three-peat
Tarik Skubal
PAUL SANCYA / AP PHOTO
Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal walks to the dugout after leaving his final start with the team before getting traded. since the New York Yankees from 1998-2000 before adding Skubal. They began the season with a $323.3 million opening-day payroll for their 40-man roster and a $163.7 million tax for a $487.1 million total. They will pay Skubal about $9.5 million for the remainder of the season. The Tigers would receive three minor league prospects in right-handers River Ryan and Brady Smith and outfielder Zyhir Hope.
Skubal is eligible for free agency after the World Series. He has a $32 million salary, a record total in arbitration and is expected to sign a massive contract in the offseason. The 29-year-old lefty said in July it was his preference to finish the season with the Tigers and to compete for a World Series. Skubal took the loss in the decisive Game 5 of the division series against Cleveland in 2024 and then got a no-decision in a 15-inning loss to Seattle in Game 5 of the division series last year. He said it was “very tough” to leave the Tigers having fallen short of the goal of winning a title. “Ever since that ’24 Game 5, the failure that I experienced on the mound, I’ve used that as fuel to try and bring a World Series to the city of Detroit. I truly did,” he said. “That whole offseason I’ve never been more motivated and then go in and we lose Game 5 again. That failure kind of sparks some
1992 movie, “A League of Their Own.” “I think that’s pretty incredible,” Benites said. “Maybelle’s been sticking with us since the beginning of this journey. She’s paved a path for us, really. ... She’s a special person, and I’m so happy that she got to make it out here and do that today.” Lindsey Keirsey, 42, a high school history teacher in Fenton, Missouri, said she is obsessed with the AAGPBL and “A League of Their Own.” She attended the game with her husband, Drew, 43, and their four children, Hadley, 17, Nolan, 15, Elam, 11, and Abbott, 10. “We go to St. Louis Cardinals games all the time,” Hadley Keirsey said. “As much as I love baseball, I think it’s an amazing opportunity to see so many women be able to play and just break ground like that. Even though it’s just a sport, I think that if we can do things like this and let women play in sports like this, women can do so many more things.”
more motivation, just to dig deeper and see how good you can truly be. The goal was always to win a World Series for the city, for the organization that took a chance on me. It’s tough. I love all those guys in there. They’re some of my best friends.” The Tigers got off to a rough start and are currently 21⁄2 games out of the last wild-card spot in the American League. “It’s crazy. Going into the season, this isn’t what I planned on doing,” Skubal said. “But circumstances change, situations change, and I’m very appreciative of everything the Tigers have done for me.” “I’ve watched this guy rise to the top of the sport,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “He’s carried us a lot. I’ll forever be grateful that our paths crossed and the things that he did for this organization and for a couple of playoff teams. His presence, his work ethic, his example, his dominance. There’s so much to go through, it’s hard to capture in one quote or kind of one setting. But I’m very grateful that I was able to manage him for the time that I did.” Skubal is 7-5 this season with a 2.79 ERA and 116 strikeouts in 962⁄3 innings. He is 61-42 with a 3.04 ERA over seven seasons, all in Detroit. In two postseasons, Skubal is 2-1 with a 2.04 ERA in six starts. Skubal had a minimally invasive surgery May 6 to remove a loose body from his pitching elbow and returned to pitch on June 13. “The way the surgery went is exactly how it was supposed to go,” he said in July.
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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Darnold uninterested in narratives about him, but ready to help Seahawks defend crown The former Panthers’ quarterback is coming off a Super Bowl win By Andrew Destin The Associated Press SEATTLE — Less than six months removed from his first NFL title, Sam Darnold briefly chuckled to himself. Darnold was asked if he feels the narratives about him have gone by the wayside. For years, the discourse on Darnold centered around him being a bust, considering his pedigree as a former No. 3 overall pick, and a transient quarterback who hopped from team to team. Darnold’s first year under center for the Seahawks, after all, marked his fifth team in eight seasons. Despite the scrutiny, Darnold said his confidence in himself has never wavered. “I don’t allow myself to really pay attention to anything like that,” Darnold said five days into training camp. “If I do catch wind of it, I have my process on how to handle that. Like I said, it’s just about handling my process and doing it my way, so that when I get out there, it’s not about what I’ve done or what I’m going to do, it’s about what I’m doing right now. “I think if I just continue to have that mindset as we go on, we’ll be just fine.” What Darnold is more interested in is getting up to speed with the Seahawks’ new offensive scheme. First-year offensive coordinator Brian Fleury and Darnold have some familiarity with one another, though. Fleury spent the last four years as the 49ers’ tight ends coach, and Darnold was San Francisco’s backup for the 2023 season. Darnold has enjoyed getting to reconnect with the stoic Fleury, who has been tasked with replacing current Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak. “Whether it’s a good play or bad play, his mentality never
LINDSEY WASSON / AP PHOTO
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold signs autographs during training camp. changes out there on the field, which I already knew about, being in San Francisco with him,” Darnold said. “But he was always very even keel. Now getting to spend a lot more time with him as the offensive coordinator, it’s fun to be able to watch him work every single day and see his mentality out there.” Darnold would also like to keep working on his rapport with wide receiver Rashid Shaheed, who signed a $51 million, three-year contract in March. Shaheed, who had 59 catches for 687 yards and two touchdowns last season for Seattle and New Orleans, spent a good chunk of the offseason training with Darnold. The two South-
“It’s not about what I’ve done or what I’m going to do, it’s about what I’m doing right now.” Sam Darnold ern California natives teamed up at Saddleback College in Orange County, which Darnold imagines will only help Shaheed further get up to speed with the Seahawks ahead of his first full season in Seattle. “He’s a friendly receiver to throw to,” Darnold said. “... I’m looking forward to him con-
tinuing to get more reps and build that chemistry so that we can see him more often getting catches and doing his thing at the receiver position.” Fans will have plenty of chances to get sneak peeks of Darnold’s and Shaheed’s progress on the HBO show “Hard Knocks.” As the quarterback of the reigning Super Bowl champions, Darnold understands he very well may be one of the focal points of the show. It’s an impending experience Darnold is prepared for ahead of his ninth NFL season. After a second straight Pro Bowl season, Darnold has proven he belongs among the NFL’s elite quarterbacks after a much-crit-
icized beginning to his professional career. While Darnold isn’t one to reflect on how far he’s come, coach Mike Macdonald is more than willing to shower praise on his even-keeled quarterback as the Seahawks seek to defend their Super Bowl title. “The thing I appreciate about Sam — and you can’t speak for everybody — but just every rep is a rep,” Macdonald said. “If it’s in the quarterback room and they’re going over the script, he treats that rep the same as he does here, if it’s practiced online or we’re in a game. It’s all the same. That’s the mental approach that we want all of our guys to take.”
Mayfield feels ‘disrespected’ by Buccaneers ownership after failing to agree on new contract The former Panthers quarterback will play out the final season of his contract
“Money should never be the motivation in football. It’s how do I help this team win?”
By Rob Maaddi The Associated Press TAMPA, Fla. — Baker Mayfield feels “disrespected” by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and is focused on playing his best football. The two-time Pro Bowl quarterback didn’t get the contract extension he sought and plans to play out the final season of his three-year, $100 million deal. “I’ve been pretty up front and honest about my feelings about Tampa, it being home for our family, raising kids here,” Mayfield said. “We love it here. I wanted a deal done and set the deadline and told them it was going to be all ball after that, and I did mean that. I don’t know if they thought I was gonna take some of the offers that they gave. “I’m at the point in my career, understanding what I’ve brought to this franchise. One, I’m very thankful for the chance they gave me — do not get me wrong on that. But I also know, I really know what I’ve brought to this franchise, leadership-wise and even play-wise. It’s been some of the best years of my career, and I think it’s only going to trend upwards.” Mayfield, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft by Cleveland, revived his career in Tampa Bay after replacing Tom Brady in 2023. He made the Pro Bowl in each of his first two seasons while leading the Bucs to consecutive NFC South titles. He was an MVP candidate through the first half
Baker Mayfield
CHRIS O’MEARA / AP PHOTO
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield takes a snap during training camp practice. of last season when the team started 6-2 but struggled with injuries and tailed off. “It’s disappointing in that regard, to feel disrespected a little bit,” he said. “That’s really the disappointing part, to feel undervalued after thinking you’ve earned it. This is not a ‘poor me’ thing. There’s a lot of other people who have it way worse off. But I can sit here and look at other quarterbacks and peers and evaluate myself based on that and put myself in certain categories that I deserved to be compensated for that.
“I think I’m a franchise quarterback. I’ve been told I’m a franchise quarterback. It’s been said publicly from ownership down here, and to not have a deal done is very disappointing.” Mayfield had set a deadline on getting a new contract by the start of training camp. He said he addressed his teammates to let them know he won’t let the issue become a distraction. He also doesn’t need it to motivate him. “Money should never be the motivation in football,” he said. “It’s how do I help this team
win? It’s never going to be the motivation for me. When it comes to having a chip on your shoulder and all that, for me it just puts me in the mindset of betting on myself. That’s something I’m pretty familiar with, and it’s a good place to be. As a highly competitive guy, sometimes you have to put yourself backed into a corner and fight your way out. I have a lot of guys and a lot of staff around me that are with me, so I’m not alone in it. We’re fighting for the same goal, and that’s to be playing in February.”
If Mayfield plays like he did in 2024 — 4,500 yards passing, 41 touchdown passes, 71.4% completion rate, 106.8 passer rating — the Buccaneers likely will have to pay him even more than he commands now. A contract that averages between $50-55 million is considered to be Mayfield’s current range. “Baker hasn’t missed a beat or changed one bit through anything that’s going on,” offensive lineman Ben Bredeson said. “He’s still our quarterback, he’s still the same leader, friend, guy that we all love. When he says it’s all about ball, he means it. He’s probably one of the most consistent and locked-in individuals I’ve ever had the chance to play with. It’s an honor going to work with him every day, and no matter what’s happening outside of the building, he has not changed one bit and is ready to go at all times.” Two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Vita Vea is also unhappy with his contract situation as he enters the final year of his deal. He has missed the first two days of practice with a back injury. “It’s all about winning here now and what we’re going to do and hopefully gets his back fixed and gets his deal done,” Mayfield said. “Vita deserves that. He’s the anchor of our defense. I hope they take care of him.”
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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
entertainment this week in history World Wide Web goes live, U.S. drops nukes on Japan, Pollock dies
lowers were later convicted of the crime.
The Associated Press
1792: During the French Revolution, mobs in Paris attacked the Tuileries Palace, where King Louis XVI resided. (The king was later arrested, put on trial for treason and executed.) 1969: Leno and Rosemary LaBianca were murdered in their Los Angeles home by members of Charles Manson’s cult. 1993: Ruth Bader Ginsburg was sworn in as the second female justice on the U.S. Supreme Court, serving until her death in September 2020.
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AUG. 6 1806: Emperor Francis II abdicated, marking the end of the Holy Roman Empire after nearly a thousand years. 1945: During World War II, the U.S. B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan, resulting in an estimated 140,000 deaths. 1991: The World Wide Web made its public debut as a means of accessing webpages over the internet. AUG. 7 1789: The U.S. Department of War was established by Congress. 1942: U.S. and other allied forces landed at Guadalcanal, marking the start of the first major allied offensive in the Pacific during World War II. 1974: French high-wire artist Philippe Petit performed an unapproved tightrope walk between the two towers of the World Trade Center in New York, more than 1,300 feet above the ground; the event was chronicled in the Academy Award-winning documentary “Man on Wire.” AUG. 8 1814: During the War of 1812, peace talks between the United States and Britain began in Ghent, Belgium. 1815: Napoleon Bonaparte set sail for St. Helena to spend the remainder of his days in exile. 1876: Thomas Edison received a patent for his electric pen — the forerunner
THE WALDEN WOODS PROJECT VIA WIKIPEDIA
Henry David Thoreau’s “Walden,” an account of his time living near Walden Pond in Massachusetts, was published Aug. 9, 1854. of the mimeograph machine. 1908: Wilbur Wright made the Wright Brothers’ first public flying demonstration, at Le Mans racecourse in France. AUG. 9 1173: Construction began on the campanile of Pisa Cathedral — better known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa. 1854: Henry David Thoreau’s “Walden,” which described Thoreau’s experiences while living near Walden Pond in Massachusetts, was first published. 1945: Three days after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, a U.S. B-29 Superfortress dropped an atomic device over Nagasaki. 1969: Actor Sharon Tate and four other people were found killed at Tate’s Los Angeles home; cult leader Charles Manson and a group of his fol-
AUG. 11 1929: Babe Ruth became the first baseball player to reach 500 career home runs with a homer at Cleveland’s League Park. 1956: Abstract painter Jackson Pollock died in an automobile accident on Long Island, New York, at age 44. 1973: At a house party in the Bronx, 18-year-old DJ Kool Herc began extending the musical breaks of the records he was playing and speaking over the beat, marking the (unofficial) birth of hip-hop music. AUG. 12 1898: Fighting in the Spanish-American War came to an end. 1909: The Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the Indianapolis 500, first opened. 2022: Salman Rushdie, the author whose writing led to death threats from Iran in the 1980s, was attacked and stabbed in the neck and eye by a man who rushed the stage as Rushdie was about to give a lecture in western New York.
HIROSHIMA PEACE MEMORIAL MUSEUM / U.S. ARMY VIA AP
A cloud rises over Hiroshima, Japan, hours after the U.S. dropped the atomic bomb “Little Boy” on Aug. 6, 1945.
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
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James, Strout among Booker Prize semifinalists Judges will announce six finalists Sept. 22
Author Douglas Stuart poses for a portrait in 2026 in New York.
By Jill Lawless The Associated Press
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LONDON — Booker Prize winners Marlon James and Douglas Stuart are in the running again for the prestigious fiction award, alongside Dublin gangs, dystopian science fiction and the New England characters of Pulitzer Prize laureate Elizabeth Strout. Judges read 163 novels to come up with the 13 semifinalists announced last week for the $66,000 Booker Prize, a list described by historian Mary Beard, head of the judging panel, as literary “dynamite.” The list includes James’ “The Disappearers,” about a group of gay men in a hostile 1980s Jamaica; Stuart’s “John of John,” a story of father-son secrets on a remote Scottish island; and Strout’s heartfelt small-town tale “The Things We Never Say.” James won the Booker in 2015 for “A Brief History of Seven Killings,” and Stuart won
ANDY KROPA / INVISION VIA AP
in 2020 for “Shuggie Bain.” Strout’s “Oh William!” was a finalist in 2022. She won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction in 2009 for “Olive Kitteridge.” They sit alongside lesser-known names on a Booker longlist that includes authors with roots in Britain, Ireland, Jamaica, Mexico, Turkey and the United States. Three of those on the list are
debut authors: Turkish American writer Kenan Orhan for family history story “The Renovation,” British author Rebecca Perry for Medieval-to-modern tale “May We Feed the King” and Ireland’s Djamel White for “All Them Dogs,” a thriller set in the Dublin underworld. White, at 28, is the youngest author in the running. The oldest is 81-year-old M. John Har-
Recording Academy CEO addresses BTS’ decision to skip Grammy submissions The Korean boy band did not want to be categorized by ethnicity
“We hope our music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language.” BTS
By Maria Sherman The Associated Press NEW YORK — Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. has responded to the news that K-pop powerhouse BTS will not submit their music for consideration at the forthcoming 2027 Grammy Awards. “I am saddened to hear that BTS has chosen not to participate in the Grammy Awards process this year, but as a music creator, I understand and respect their decision,” Mason Jr. wrote on the Grammys’ official Instagram page. Last Wednesday, all seven BTS members — RM, Suga, j-hope, Jimin, V, Jung Kook and Jin — shared the same note on Instagram, stating that they would not be submitting their comeback album “ARIRANG” or its songs for Grammys. “We hope our music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language,” they wrote, just over a month after the Recording Academy announced
rison, whose postapocalyptic tale “The End of Everything” is a rare science fiction novel to make the Booker list. The other contenders are “The Shadow of the Object” by Chloe Aridjis, “Black Bag” by Luke Kennard, “The Vivisectors” by Missouri Williams, “Switzy” by Emma Cline, “Helen of Nowhere” by Makenna Goodman and Gwendoline Riley’s “The Palm House.” Beard said the five jurors, who include Pulp frontman Jarvis Cocker and American novelist Patricia Lockwood, tried to look beyond the idea of a typical Booker winner – “slightly serious, about to be classic.” Instead, they chose novels that are “trying to expand the boundaries of how we can think about ourselves in completely different ways,” “Sometimes they’re using humor, sometimes it’s pathos, sometimes there’s shock value,” Beard said. “They’re risk-takers. They are dynamite. They say, ‘Come on, try seeing it a different way.’” Founded in 1969, the Booker Prize has a reputation for transforming writers’ careers and is open to novels from any country published in the U.K. and Ireland. Last year’s winner was “Flesh” by Hungarian British writer David Szalay. The winner will be revealed Nov. 9 at a ceremony in London.
YUKI IWAMURA / AP PHOTO
BTS performs at halftime of the World Cup final soccer match between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 19. five new Grammy categories, which include best Asian pop music performance. According to the rulebook, the category recognizes releases across K-pop, J-pop, C-pop and beyond. But some fans viewed it
solutions
as a racialized barrier for Asian performers. In his statement, Mason Jr. stated that the new category was created in order to celebrate more voices across the Asian music industry — not to
separate those artists from other awards. “I do want to clarify something that seems to be getting lost in the conversation. The Asian Pop category was created to celebrate the depth, diver-
sity and extraordinary growth of pop artistry coming out of Asia,” he wrote. “More categories mean more artists’ work is recognized. It’s never to divide, but to expand who is recognized by our 15,000 Grammy voters.” He added a reminder that submitting in a genre category — such as the new Asian pop award — does not exclude an artist from submitting to the general field categories like album, song and record of the year. “Recognition in a genre category and recognition in the General Field are not mutually exclusive,” Mason Jr. said. “An artist can absolutely pursue both.” BTS has never won a Grammy, though they’ve been nominated for five: three times in the best pop duo/group performance category as well as album of the year (for their contributions to Coldplay’s “Music of the Spheres”) and best music video for “Yet to Come.” In fact, no K-pop act had ever won a Grammy before this year, when “Golden” from the Netflix animated film “KPop Demon Hunters” took home the trophy for best song for visual media.
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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
famous birthdays this week Charlize Theron is 51, Keith Carradine turns 77, Sam Elliott celebrates 82, Sir Mix-A-Lot spins to 63 The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week. AUG. 6 Actor-director Peter Bonerz is 88. Actor Dorian Harewood is 76. Actor Leland Orser is 66. Actor Michelle Yeoh is 65. Basketball Hall of Famer David Robinson is 61. Actor Soleil Moon Frye is 50. AUG. 7
CHRIS PIZZELLO/ AP PHOTO
Actor Rosanna Arquette turns 67 on Monday.
Singer Lana Cantrell is 83. Actor John Glover is 82. Actor David Rasche is 82. Former diplomat, talk show host and activist Alan Keyes is 76. Country singer Rodney Crowell is 76. Actor Wayne Knight is 71. Rock singer Bruce Dickinson is 68. Actor David Duchovny is 66. Actor Michael Shannon is 52. Actor Charlize Theron is 51.
HOCUS FOCUS
AUG. 8 Actor Nita Talbot is 96. Actor Dustin Hoffman is 80. Actor Connie Stevens is 88. Actor Larry Wilcox is 79. Actor Keith Carradine is 77. Movie director Martin Brest is 75. Radio-TV personality Robin Quivers is 74. Rock musician The Edge (U2) is 65. AUG. 9 Basketball Hall of Famer Bob Cousy is 98. Tennis Hall of Famer Rod Laver is 88. Actor Sam Elliott is 82. Singer Barbara Mason is 79. Actor Melanie Griffith is 69. Rapper Kurtis Blow is 67. Pro and College Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders is 59.
DARKO VOJINOVIC / AP PHOTO
Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak turns 76 on Tuesday. AUG. 11 Magazine columnist Marilyn vos Savant is 80. Country music singer John Conlee is 80. Computer scientist and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak is 76. Musician Joe Jackson is 72. Actor-host Joe Rogan is 59.
AUG. 10
AUG. 12
Actor James Reynolds is 80. Rock singer-musician Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull) is 79. Country musician Gene Johnson (Diamond Rio) is 77. Actor Daniel Hugh Kelly is 74. Folk singer-songwriter Sam Baker is 72. Actor Rosanna Arquette is 67.
Actor George Hamilton is 87. Singer-musician Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits) is 77. Singer Kid Creole (Kid Creole and the Coconuts) is 76. Jazz guitarist Pat Metheny is 72. Rapper Sir Mix-A-Lot is 63. Tennis Hall of Famer Pete Sampras is 55.
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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
the stream
UNIVERSAL PICTURES / PARAMOUNT PICTURES / NETFLIX VIA AP
“You, Me & Tuscany,” left, the concert film “Billie Eilish — Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live),” center, and science fiction thriller “The Last House” are all streaming this week.
‘Ted Lasso,’ Billie Eilish, Stray Kids, ‘You, Me & Tuscany,’ ‘The Shards’ Ravyn Lenae drops “Blue Island” The Associated Press THE RETURN of “Ted Lasso” and Billie Eilish’s immersive concert film are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you. Also, among the streaming offerings worth your time this week: The rom-com “You, Me & Tuscany,” a new mini-album from Stray Kids and the new series based on Bret Easton Ellis’ “The Shards.” MOVIES TO STREAM A family is trapped inside their home for years in the new science-fiction thriller “The Last House,” streaming Friday on Netflix. Greta Lee and Wagner Moura play parents to two children who find themselves in the mysterious predicament in the Louis Leterrier-directed movie. James Cameron and Eilish share the directing credit on the concert film “Billie Eilish — Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live),” which hits Paramount+ on Thursday. In her review, AP music writer Maria Sherman wrote, “While no movie can serve as the perfect replica of a transformative live music experience … (this) works an immersive magic. Every seat is the best seat in the house in these shots.” Halle Bailey plays a professional house sitter who impulsively takes up residence in an Italian villa in the romantic comedy “You, Me & Tuscany,” streaming on Peacock starting Friday. Equal parts picturesque and improbable, the movie involves a case of mistaken identity and a lie about an engagement that gets in the way of a potentially real romance with Regé-Jean Page. Jocelyn Noveck, in her review for The Associated Press, wrote that it is “a movie as frothy and insubstantial as the foam on a nice cappuccino.” Colombian filmmaker Simón Mesa Soto won a prize from last year’s Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section for “A Poet,” about a failed writer named Oscar, that will be streaming on Mubi on Friday. AP film writer Jake Coyle, in his review, wrote, “While ‘A Poet’ might remind you of some other films — one would be Cord Jefferson’s ‘A merican Fiction’ — it is, like Oscar, steadfastly its own thing. Filmed on grainy 16mm, it’s even rough and dirty around the edges. … But if Soto’s
ANDY KROPA / INVISION VIA AP
Regé-Jean Page, from left, Halle Bailey, director Kat Coiro and Will Packer attend the premiere of the romantic comedy “You, Me & Tuscany” at Jazz at Lincoln Center on April 8 in New York.
ter City. He then resigned to return home to Kansas to spend more time with his son, Henry. Now, the Emmy-winning series resumes, with Lasso returning to the U.K. to coach AFC Richmond’s new women’s team. Hannah Waddingham, Brett Goldstein, Juno Temple, Jeremy Swift and Brendan Hunt return with Sudeikis for this continuation of the Lasso universe. Ryan Murphy has teamed up with “American Psycho” and “Less Than Zero” author Ellis to adapt Ellis’ autofiction novel “The Shards” for FX. Set in 1981 in Los Angeles, it stars Igby Rigney as a privileged high school senior named Bret, who finds himself both suspicious of and obsessed with a new student (played by Homer James Jigme Gere). At the same time, a serial killer is targeting teens in the area, and the kids are becoming increasingly paranoid. The show has a roster of rising talent including Kaia Gerber, Hayes Warner and Graham Campbell. It is available now on FX on Hulu. It’s gonna be a minute until Prime Video is ready to release “The Summer I Turned Pretty” movie or Season 2 of “Off Campus,” so it’s churning out the YA shows to keep viewers swooning in the meantime. “Sterling Point” is the latest offering from Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage (“The OC,” “Gossip Girl”), who are co-showrunners alongside buzzy up-and-coming director and actor Megan Park (“My Old Ass”). It’s about a teen named Annie who inherits her grandfather’s island after his death. The drama is streaming now. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY
RICHARD SHOTWELL / INVISION VIA AP
Above, Jason Sudeikis arrives at the season four premiere of “Ted Lasso” on July 27 in Los Angeles. Right, Ravyn Lenae’s third album, “Blue Island,” releases Aug. 7. film is loose and gritty, its satire is remarkably precise. This is a farce of creative life where the only pure artistic intention is a joke.” MUSIC TO STREAM The British girl-group greats FLO have found “Therapy at the Club.” At least, that is the promise — and title — of their sophomore album. Expect 16 tracks of R&B-pop bliss. If there’s any wisdom to be learned on the
ATLANTIC VIA AP
dance floor here, it is because their silky-smooth, three-part vocal harmonies delivered the message. It’s hard to underscore just how massive Ravyn Lenae’s 2024 single “Love Me Not” was in 2025. The swoony song went mega-viral on TikTok and became the centerpiece of a lot of online conversation, much of which positioned Lenae as contemporary R&B’s saving grace. But a one-hit wonder with only a dance trend to her name she is
not. “Blue Island,” her forthcoming third album, pushes boundaries — of genre, of expectation and public perception. SERIES TO STREAM Hard to believe, but it’s been three years since “Ted Lasso” concluded its third season on Apple TV. The lovably folksy soccer coach (played by Jason Sudeikis) led AFC Richmond to become No. 2 in the Premier League, behind Manches-
Dogs have been part of video games since 1984’s “Duck Hunt,” but you don’t often get to control them. Koo, the costar of “Beast of Reincarnation,” wants to change that. The feisty mutt and his human pal Emma are fighting bloodthirsty mutants and killer robots in a postapocalyptic Japan in the year 4026. Emma swings a mean katana, but she can call upon Koo to leap in and take a bite out of an enemy — or just sniff out treasure. Fetch it now on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S or PC. In “Big Walk,” you and up to 11 friends are dropped on a mysterious island where your goal ... well, I’m not sure what your goal is. You can team up to solve puzzles. You can go for walks. You can sit and watch the sunset. Sometimes you’ll lose the ability to chat with your buddies, so you’ll need to figure out other ways to communicate. Australian developer House House is best known for 2019’s preposterous “Untitled Goose Game,” and its new release aims to transfer that cult hit’s sense of whimsical chaos to a co-op package. Begin the hike on PlayStation 5, Switch 2 and PC.
VOLUME 11 ISSUE 24 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026
DUPLINJOURNAL.COM
Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
the
Beulaville celebrates its hometown queen
BRIEF this week
Miss North Carolina 2026 Brittany Boltinhouse, a Beulaville native, holds a proclamation presented by the town of Beulaville during Monday night’s town hall meeting recognizing her accomplishments as she prepares to represent North Carolina at the Miss USA competition later this month.
High-speed chase leads to drug charges Duplin County A man accused of leading state troopers on a two-county pursuit that ended in Wallace on July 26, faces 17 charges, including drug trafficking, after authorities said fentanyl and cocaine were recovered from his vehicle. Terrance Hooks is being held at the Pender County Jail on more than $5 million in secured bonds.
Turn to A3 for more.
Free back-to-school haircuts Kenansville The James Sprunt Community College Barber School and Cosmetology Department are offering free back-to-school haircuts for students. Barber School services are available Aug. 2–31 at the Herring building Sunday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Tuesday through Thursday 6-8 p.m., and Cosmetology Department haircuts will be offered Aug. 19 to Sept. 3 at the Hall building Tuesday through Thursday 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome.
Mobile market returns Magnolia The Ripe for Revival Mobile Market will return to Magnolia on Aug. 19, offering fresh food and local products while connecting farmers, nonprofits and residents. The market visits on the first and third Wednesdays of each month.
Community fitness classes Kenansville James Sprunt Community College is offering two fitness classes this fall. Fitness for Seniors meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 7:55-8:55 a.m. and focuses on balance, strength, flexibility and mobility, while Physical Conditioning meets Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. for adults looking to improve strength, endurance and overall fitness.
REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
UDO changes, staffing crisis dominate county commissioners meeting The board adjusted development rules, approved temporary positions and reviewed infrastructure projects By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — The Duplin County Board of Commissioners addressed changes to
agricultural development rules, county staffing shortages and infrastructure projects during its Aug. 3 meeting. The Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) text amend-
ment was a primary focus of the meeting, following a July session where 12 citizens spoke in opposition to the proposal, which was sent back to the Planning Board for further review. Initially, the county established a 1,000-foot setback for new residential divisions near active livestock facilities. Af-
Native plants and pollinators Jacksonville The Onslow County Extension Office will host a free presentation on native plants and pollinators at 6 p.m. on Aug. 19. The first 50 attendees will receive a free native plant.
$2.00
See UDO, page A2
$500K in grant funds remains available for Mount Olive homeowners Officials discussed remaining CDBG funds and infrastructure needs during Monday’s meeting By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal MOUNT OLIVE — The Mount Olive Board of Commissioners held a required public hearing during its regular board
meeting Monday to close out one of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) projects used to replace three homes in town. The grant was originally awarded to the town in 2020. In an update provided to the
board, the grant amount increased from $750,000 to $950,000 through the N.C. Department of Commerce. The funds were used to provide modular homes to the three eligible families, conduct a subsurface utility evaluation for the town and create a redevelopment plan for the downtown area. The work on all projects came in un-
Farm Family nominations open Duplin County Applications and nominations are being accepted for the 2026 N.C. State Fair Farm Family of the Day program, sponsored by Tractor Supply Co. The recognition honors North Carolina farm families, and submissions are due by Aug. 21.
ter addressing citizens’ concerns, the Planning Board recommended a total repeal of the setback, which was presented to the board by County Planner Chris Hatcher. During the public hearing portion of the meeting, David Phillips, a local resident, argued
James Kenan High teacher charged with 20 felony counts in student-related case Authorities say the investigation involved allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a minor By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — A Duplin County school district employee has been arrested after allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a minor prompted an investigation by the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office and the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. James Wesley Graves, 48, a JROTC teacher at James Ke-
nan High School, was arrested July 30 at 7 p.m. by the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office following an investigation. Graves was committed to the Duplin County Jail with no bond. According to the sheriff’s office, authorities began investigating allegations reported July 17 involving Graves and an alleged inappropriate relationship with a minor. In a joint statement issued July 31, Duplin County Schools and the sheriff’s office said the district employee had been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation. See TEACHER, page A5
“Duplin County Schools and the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office take allegations of this nature very seriously. Duplin County Schools
der budget. About $658,000 of the grant was used to replace the homes. Another CDBG grant awarded in 2023 was used to replace one home in town, but three other homes originally targeted under the grant were not completed because the homeowners did See GRANT, page A2
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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
THURSDAY
8.6.26 #137
Social Services building briefly DUPLIN happening closed after bed bug report County officials said no additional issues have been reported since the facility reopened
“Join the conversation”
“The building was closed Thursday as soon as we were made aware.”
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
Lisa Hughes
THE DUPLIN County Consolidated Health and Human Services-Social Services Division temporarily closed its building July 16-17 following a report of possible bed bugs inside the facility. According to Interim Coun-
ty Manager Lisa Hughes, Terminix inspected the building after the concern was reported and found that the number of bugs present did not qualify as an infestation. “The building was closed Thursday as soon as we were
made aware,” Hughes told Duplin Journal. “Terminix came Friday morning and the building remained closed that day.” The facility closed at approximately 3 p.m. on July 16 and remained closed July 17 while the inspection was completed. Hughes said employees returned to the building the following Monday and no additional issues had been reported. The Social Services Division has resumed normal operations.
Duplin Journal
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CONTACT US Office Phone: 910 463-1240 To place a legal ad: 919 663-3232; Fax: 919 663-4042
UDO from page A1 that a 1,000-foot circle encompasses more than 72 acres, warning the board that the rule opened the county to “an inverse condemnation lawsuit” by rendering thousands of acres of private land unusable. After public comments closed, the commissioners sought a middle ground to allow agricultural and residential land uses to “coexist.” Commissioner Wayne Branch moved to reduce the setback to 300 feet for minor subdivisions and 500 feet for major subdivisions. The board also approved a family division exemption, allowing property owners to subdivide land for immediate family members, including a spouse, child or sibling, without a setback requirement from agricultural facilities. The change was made retroactive to Aug. 4, 2025. The county is experiencing significant employee shortages. Human Resources Director Semeka Perry stated that Health and Human Services, Public Safety and the sheriff’s office are dealing with va-
GRANT from page A1 not meet the grant requirements. That means about $500,000 remains in that grant and can be used to help other homeowners in town. The board learned the remaining funds can be used to either repair or replace homes, provided the repairs bring the homes up to code and meet U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development requirements. Eligible homeowners can request to be considered for the grant by contacting Mount Olive Assistant Town Manager Sherry Davis. Mayor Pro Tem Delreese Simmons challenged the amount spent to build the three homes. “Have you ever thought how many houses in this town could have been fixed with $658,000 instead of three?” he said. Once Mount Olive receives requests from other homeown-
2 cyclosporiasis cases reported in Duplin County The intestinal illness has sickened more than 700 people across the state since May By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
867
Cases since May
149
33
Hospitalizations since May
9
Newly reported cases since July 28
Hospitalizations since July 28
sume food or water contaminated with the parasite. Previous outbreaks have been linked to fresh produce, including lettuce, fruit and fresh herbs. NCDHHS is working with state and local partners to identify the source of the recent increase. Officials said the rise in North Carolina cases does not appear to be connected to an outbreak involving Taco Bell reported in other states. While a specific source has
not been identified, recent North Carolina cases have reported eating parsley and cilantro more often than expected based on population-wide surveys. Most affected individuals are adults ages 19-54, followed by those older than 55. Health officials encourage residents to practice safe food handling and seek medical care if they experience symptoms such as persistent diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea or fatigue.
cancies “critical to providing services to citizens within the county” that need to be filled. “It would help shorten the process if the county manager were authorized to create temporary 12 months or less positions, nonbenefit positions to assist in providing services while the positions are being filled,” Perry said. Perry attributed the turnover to higher salaries in surrounding counties and issues with inexperienced leadership, describing some departures as employees “divorcing their supervisor.” According to Perry, the phrase refers to employees leaving a job because of issues with management or direct supervision rather than solely because of pay. “You have leaders in place in these positions in these departments that may be not seasoned supervisors,” Perry said. “They’re learning as well.” While surrounding counties often offer higher salaries, Perry said the decision to leave is “not always money” and can be
influenced by the quality of direct supervision. In response to the staffing concerns, the board approved a general protocol for creating temporary positions to address staffing shortages, though it did not set a specific limit on the total number of positions that could be created under the new authority to assist in providing services while permanent positions are filled. During the July 13 meeting, the board specifically created eight temporary nonbenefited part-time positions for the Social Services Division of Health and Human Services. The board also previously authorized pay rates exceeding the maximum for three temporary positions in the Health Division and two in Environmental Health to help fill some of those roles. In other business, the board terminated a water supply well project after the site was found to have inadequate water quality, requiring the redirection of $500,000 in unspent grant funds to the Duplin County Capital Projects Fund. The redirected funds, along
with interest earned on the original $12 million grant, were reallocated to several other infrastructure priorities:
ers seeking consideration for the grant funds, the board of commissioners will hold a public hearing to approve the list of houses that will be included in the application process. To be eligible, the home must be owned by the applicant, meet income requirements based on the number of residents in the household and be free of liens or judgments. The board honored longtime Mount Olive resident Annie Louise Anderson, who recently celebrated her 100th birthday. She was presented with a framed copy of a special town proclamation in her honor by Mayor Jerome Newton. Anderson was praised for her work in the community, often cooking for people in need and spending Sundays gathering between 40 and 60 neighborhood children and walking with them to and from church.
In other business, the board authorized Town Manager Octavious Murphy to spend up to $200,000 with EnviroLink to complete sewer line cleaning and video inspection of the remaining lines required to be inspected under the special order of consent (SOC) issued by the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality. The town has been fined in the past for not fulfilling the requirements of the SOC. Public Works Director Glenn Holland addressed the board and emphasized that spending the money now could help the town apply for additional funds related to the town’s sewage system. “The good thing about finishing this up faster is we can go ahead and apply for funding this year,” Holland said. In response to questions from Commissioner Gena Knode, Holland emphasized that the SOC and the moratorium is-
sued by the state, which is limiting any additional load on the town’s sewage treatment system, are two different issues. He said the SOC must be completed as a step toward getting the town out from the moratorium, which has brought new development in town almost to a halt. During the town manager’s report, Murphy gave a detailed explanation of all the improvements and progress made in town since he assumed the position in April. He praised town employees for their work and singled out Police Chief Jason Hughes for successfully staffing the department, pointing out that many other communities in the state are having difficulty hiring officers. Newton reminded those in attendance that the September board of commissioners meeting has been moved to Sept. 14 due to the Labor Day holiday.
TWO CASES of cyclosporiasis have been reported in Duplin County as health officials monitor an increase in the intestinal illness across North Carolina. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services reported 867 cases statewide since May, including 149 newly reported cases and nine hospitalizations since July 28. Most cases have been reported in Wake County, which has recorded 494 cases. Cyclosporiasis is caused by the parasite cyclospora and can occur when people con-
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Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Duplin County:
Aug. 8 InflataFest comes to Duplin 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. InflataFest, an event featuring bounce houses, slides and obstacle courses, is coming to the Duplin Events Center. The event will include inflatable attractions, family activities and concessions. Admission is $20 for children ages 3 and older, while adults are admitted free. Groups of 20 or more children can purchase tickets for $15 each. 195 Fairgrounds Drive Kenansville
Back-to-school supply giveaway 1-3 p.m. Heaven Hill Kidpreneur will host a back-to-school supply giveaway at Wallace Parks and Recreation. Free school supplies will be available while supplies last for students in pre-K through 12th grade. Children must be present. Supplies will include backpacks, notebooks, pencils, pens, folders, crayons and other classroom essentials. 209 E. Clement St., Wallace
• AirPark improvements: $2,853,450
Aug. 15
• Airport maintenance building: $200,000
Operation Giveback 2026
• Short-term stay project: $1 million • Buildings and sites projects: $9,046,550
The board also approved a service order with Spectrum to extend service to airport hangars, including a one-time construction fee of $26,780 and a monthly fee of $620. The board approved clearing and snagging contracts for sections of the Northeast Cape Fear River, including a $168,607 contract with Snatch-It Clearing and a $154,292 contract with JNJ Environmental Services LLC. The meeting concluded with a closed session to discuss legal and economic development matters.
9 a.m. to noon The event, held at Beulaville Town Hall, will feature school supplies, activities and additional community resources. 508 E. Main St., Beulaville
Back-to-School Community Day 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Duplin County Partnership for Children will host its annual Back-to-School Community Day. The event is open to Duplin County students in pre-K through 12th grade. Children must be present to receive supplies. Families also can enjoy games, bounce houses, entertainment and opportunities to learn more about the organization’s programs. 408 N. Main St., Kenansville
Jalen’s Bless the Block 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The event will provide school supplies and free haircuts. It will feature special guests and family activities. Wallace Urgent Care is serving as an official school supply drop-off location. 683 E. Southerland St., Wallace
Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Beulaville native brings hometown pride to Miss USA journey The Miss North Carolina USA winner reflects on family, confidence and the community that helped her along the way By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal BEULAVILLE — From Duplin County to the Miss USA stage, Brittany Boltinhouse is carrying with her the lessons, support and values she gained from the community where she was born and raised. Boltinhouse, who was recently crowned Miss North Carolina USA, will represent North Carolina at the Miss USA competition Aug. 27 in Florida. The Beulaville native made history as the 75th Miss North Carolina USA, becoming the third Latina to earn the title and the first woman of Honduran descent to wear the crown. A graduate of East Duplin High School and James Sprunt Community College, Boltinhouse said the lessons she learned growing up in Duplin County continue to influence how she approaches challenges. “Growing up in Duplin County taught me that the little things in life truly matter,” Boltinhouse told Duplin Journal. “Some of the greatest wisdom I’ve ever re-
ceived has come from the older generations in my community. They taught me the importance of hard work, humility, kindness and treating people with respect.” Those lessons, she said, remind her that success is not only measured by accomplishments but also by how people serve others and impact those around them. “To have my hometown and the Hispanic community embrace this journey has been one of the greatest blessings of my life, and I hope every young person from Duplin County knows that no dream is too big for someone from a small town,” Boltinhouse said. After winning the Miss North Carolina USA title, Boltinhouse returned to Duplin County to visit the people who supported her and her family throughout her journey. One of those stops was with Sherry Kennedy, who altered Boltinhouse’s competition gowns. “While she was helping me with my dresses, she shared a story I’ll never forget,” Boltinhouse told Duplin Journal. “When my family first came from Mexico, she rallied the community to help my grandparents find food and work as they were starting over in a new country. I had never heard that story before, and it reminded
“It reminded me that my family’s American dream was possible because of the kindness and generosity of people in Duplin County.” Brittany Boltinhouse me that my family’s American dream was possible because of the kindness and generosity of people in Duplin County.” For Boltinhouse, the story added a deeper meaning to returning home with the crown. “I get to return to the very community that helped my family build a future here,” she said. “Their belief in my grandparents made it possible for me to chase my own dreams, and now I have the opportunity to give back to the same community that gave us so much.” Before stepping onto the pageant stage, Boltinhouse built a career as an entrepreneur. She owns FloorMasters and TurfMasters in Leland alongside her husband, a journey that included five failed business ventures before finding success in the flooring industry. Those experiences, Boltinhouse said, helped shape her re-
silience and willingness to take on new challenges, including competing in her first pageant. “I think one of the biggest misconceptions is that you have to be the most experienced person in the room to succeed,” Boltinhouse said. “This was my very first pageant. … I competed alongside incredible women who had been pursuing this title for six or seven years, and I have so much respect for their dedication and perseverance.” Boltinhouse also received four of the five competition awards: Best Gown, Best Fitness, Miss Congeniality and People’s Choice. “To me, those awards reflected the months of preparation, the relationships I built and the support of the people who believed in me. My journey proves that you don’t have to have the most experience or come from a big city to accomplish something extraordinary. Duplin County itself is proof of that. Companies like Mt. Olive Pickles, Butterball and Duplin Winery have become nationally recognized while staying true to their small-town roots. I believe people from communities like ours can dream just as big. Sometimes all it takes is the courage to take the first step.” After six months of preparation, Boltinhouse said she reached a moment during the
A3 competition when she embraced the opportunity and felt confident in the work she had put in. “The moment I realized I truly belonged on that stage was during the swimsuit competition,” Boltinhouse said. “As soon as I stepped onto the runway, everything just clicked. I felt at home. “It reminded me that confidence comes from the work you put in long before the spotlight ever finds you.” Boltinhouse hopes to use her platform to encourage women to pursue leadership opportunities, build confidence and follow their goals. She also wants young people to understand that their futures are not limited by where they come from. “If I could go back and talk to my high school self at East Duplin, I would tell her that education doesn’t only come from classrooms or textbooks,” Boltinhouse said. “Some of life’s greatest lessons come from experience, failure, taking risks and learning as you go.” She said she hopes young people understand that challenges can prepare them for future opportunities. “I want young people to know that your past doesn’t define your future, and your GPA or a college degree doesn’t define your worth,” Boltinhouse said. “Keep learning, stay curious, work hard and never stop believing in what’s possible.” Boltinhouse said her journey shows that people from small communities can achieve big goals. “Sometimes all it takes is the courage to take the first step,” she said.
Hometown celebration opens Beulaville board meeting Town leaders recognized Brittany Boltinhouse before addressing grants, infrastructure and public safety By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal BEULAVILLE welcomed one of its own home Monday night as 2026 Miss North Carolina USA Brittany Boltinhouse returned to receive a town proclamation honoring her accomplishments before setting her sights on the Miss USA stage later this month. “I am a Beulaville native and the first married woman and the first of Honduran descent to step on the Miss North Carolina stage,” Boltinhouse said. “I am 27 years old — not 22 — and this is my first pageant ever. ... The Miss USA stage will be the second stage I step on, and I am committed to bringing the crown back to North Carolina. I am hoping to be an example to the locals of this town that you are capable of accomplishing your dreams no matter who you are or where you come from.” Boltinhouse also encouraged residents to vote in the free People’s Choice portion of the Miss USA competition, which is currently underway. She said her costume for the national competition will pay tribute to her hometown by featuring the “red cardinal of North Carolina,” a
REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Beulaville Mayor Hutch Jones, left, presents a proclamation to Miss North Carolina Brittany Boltinhouse during the Aug. 3 Beulaville Board of Commissioners meeting recognizing her achievements before she competes in the Miss USA pageant later this month. nod to Duplin County’s agricultural heritage. Mayor Hutch Jones presented Boltinhouse with a proclamation recognizing her for representing Beulaville and North Carolina “with dignity and purpose.” Following the presentation, Boltinhouse greeted the Greater Pink Hill Tiny Miss, who had come to meet the state’s titleholder, before the board resumed its regular meeting. Town Manager Lori Williams reported that town officials recently met with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to
continue developing an infrastructure package for upgrades and repairs to the wastewater treatment plant. Public Works also reported the town averaged 112,000 gallons of water usage per day during July and recorded 5 inches of rainfall. Commissioners also discussed the demolition of the old gym, which has become a safety hazard. Board members acknowledged there had once been sentimental and historical interest in preserving the building but agreed it is no longer salvageable and now presents a liability for the town.
Board members discussed the logistics of having Public Works perform the demolition and requested formal estimates for equipment and disposal expenses before authorizing the project. The item is expected to return for consideration at the September meeting. Police Chief Karl Mobley gave a positive report on the police department. “We’ve had a really good month,” Mobley said. “This is a couple of months in a row now that we haven’t had to investigate any big cases.” Mobley said drug- and gun-related arrests have declined while officer visibility has increased throughout town. Mobley attributed the success to the town’s support of a fully staffed department and the teamwork between the board and his department to keep the town safe. Mobley also announced the department will participate in Operation Give Back 2026 on Aug. 15 and is pursuing grant funding through the U.S. Department of Justice and the N.C. Governor’s Crime Commission for equipment purchases. In other business, commissioners selected a design for the town’s new Christmas banners, citing the need for continuity and uniformity throughout Beulaville. The town plans to purchase 40 banners, including replacement banners. Because of the Labor Day
holiday, commissioners voted to move the September board meeting to Sept. 14. The board also tabled a long-standing request regarding the potential sale of property on Lyman Road. Town attorney Justin Hunter said the matter will remain on hold until the board decides whether it wishes to revisit the issue. Commissioners approved a budget amendment creating a separate fund to account for $122,500 received by the police department through a task force grant. The board also adopted a resolution accepting a $950,000 Community Development Block Grant for housing and authorized Jones to execute the required agreements. During her report, Williams said sales tax revenue totaled $42,287 for the latest reporting period, exceeding budget expectations. She also reminded residents that the next bulk trash collection is scheduled for Sept. 23 and that a community paper shredding event is tentatively planned for October. Williams also discussed the town’s elevated water tank, which has developed staining from chemical sprays. Following a recent inspection, town officials plan to explore cleaning options. The meeting adjourned following the town manager’s report and brief comments from commissioners.
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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | VICTOR JOECKS
The inadequacy of opposing socialism
It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back.
DON’T ASSUME socialism’s inevitable failures will stop it from spreading. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced that his government-run grocery stores will offer products at a 30% discount. The appeal of this plan is obvious. Everyone would like to pay less for milk, eggs and meat. That this plan won’t work is equally obvious to anyone who understands basic economics. Unfortunately, that excludes many New Yorkers and college graduates. Take a look at the details of Mamdani’s plan. He doesn’t want the city to run these stores. He’s seeking proposals from “qualified grocers or firms to serve as operators” of the stores. “The City sets the mission, the standards and the store design; experienced third-party operators run the stores day to day under those requirements,” a release from Mamdani’s office states. Further, “operators will be required to provide family-sustaining wages and benefits and commit to a Labor Peace Agreement so that workers who want to organize can do so without interference.” That Mamdani doesn’t trust NYC’s bureaucracy to run his grocery stores is smart, but it also shows why the government shouldn’t run grocery stores. Mamdani may want to seize the means of production, but he appears to recognize that government doesn’t do a great job of producing. His premise is also absurd. Most
grocery stores have profit margins of 1% to 3%. Mamdani wants an operator to run his stores with 30% discounts on major items and to allow a union to inflate worker pay. Maybe Mamdani can hire fairies to stock the shelves with products delivered by unicorns. But Mamdani doesn’t expect these operators to lower prices by 30%. The city’s request for proposals states the city “will provide financial support to the Operator(s) to mitigate operating deficits attributable to discounted Core Basket sales and enable cost-effective program delivery.” This subsidy would be in addition to NYC taxpayers paying $70 million to build five stores and then cover their rent and property taxes. Mamdani’s grocery store scheme won’t prove the superiority of socialism because he’s not even trying to lower costs. He’s content to disguise them with crony capitalism. It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back. If the grocery stores are “successful,” they’ll drive nearby privately run stores out of business, which will erode the tax base. That will require more government-subsidized grocery stores, driving more grocery stores out of business and further reducing tax revenues. This spiral will continue until New Yorkers come to their electoral senses or run out of toilet paper — proof a
country has fully implemented socialism. These are important arguments to make. But they aren’t enough. Mamdani gives his followers specifics that create a clear narrative. According to him, the problem is high prices — the villains are rich people, and the solution is government-run grocery stores. Now, Mamdani is wrong — very wrong — on the details. But conservatives need to imitate his model. For instance, electricity prices are too high — the villain is the left’s push for expensive and unreliable green energy, and the solution is ending federal subsidies for wind and solar. States also need to repeal their renewable portfolio standards. Car prices are too high — the villain is anti-fossil fuel regulations pushed by Democrats, and the solution is requiring Congress to authorize any restrictions on gas-powered vehicles. Now one challenge for conservatives is that real solutions can take years to work, while socialists promise quick fixes and gimmicks. But by identifying the root cause of a problem, conservatives make a much stronger argument. It isn’t enough to point out the many problems with socialist proposals. Conservatives also need to provide villains and solutions. Victor Joecks is a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI
Fauci’s cowardly Fifth Amendment evasion
The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive.
THERE’S NOTHING inherently wrong with invoking the Fifth Amendment. The perception that anyone who pleads the Fifth to protect themselves from self-incrimination is only hiding guilt is wrong. Innocent people are often intimidated or tricked by those in power into implicating themselves. Others might get nervous under oath and worry about misspeaking under pressure. Former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Anthony Fauci, who appeared before the Senate committee investigating the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is not one of those people. There is some legal question as to whether a person who has received a pardon loses his ability to plead the Fifth since the assertion is predicated on shielding them from future crimes, like lying to Congress. Fauci, after all, could admit to personally creating COVID-19 in a lab and then spreading it himself, and there is still nothing the government could do to him. Former President Joe Biden gave him an unprecedented pardon for any federal offenses related to any pandemic-era actions between Jan. 1, 2014, and Jan. 19, 2025. The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive. It’s difficult to imagine anything that could incentivize criminality and abuse of power with the government more than knowing a president will give you a get-out-of-jail-free card at the end of a term. The entire point of the hearings, Fauci
contends, is to trap him. Fauci says Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), who released a cache of diary entries and emails earlier this week, is obsessed with prosecuting him, evident by his “repeated slanderous comments” and release of unredacted personal documents, which were aimed at “embarrassing and intimidation.” Perhaps. But Fauci, who was employed by the federal government for 54 years, director of the NIAID for 38, has likely delivered thousands of speeches and appeared in front of Congress somewhere around 250 times. If he can’t offer clear and honest testimony under oath, who can? The fact is that being truthful under oath would mean explaining several things: Why, though Fauci knew COVID19’s fatality rate was likely at 0.2%-0.3% and “acting like a bad influenza,” he told Congress that it was “10 times more lethal than the seasonal flu.” Why, after privately expressing frustration regarding the efficacy of lockdowns in flattening the curve, Fauci not only advocated closing businesses and schools nationally but framed anyone who was skeptical as villains. Why Fauci publicly contended that he had absolutely nothing to do with school closings yet privately took credit for frightening the mayor of New York, the governor of California and others into shutting down their states. Why Fauci privately acknowledged that the wet market in Wuhan “was not the source” of the virus but the “amplifier”
and yet continued contending, with great scientific certitude, that the virus jumping from bats to humans was “absolutely totally compatible” with the available evidence, but the theory of the virus being created in the Wuhan Institute of Virology was a “very, very, very, very remote possibility.” Committee Democrats, incidentally, declined to rebut any Republican criticisms aimed at Fauci or speak on any of the problems of the pandemic response. Many of these Democrats had not treated Fauci’s word as indisputable truth and smeared anyone who questioned his authoritarian remedies as if they were members of a death cult. Instead, Democrats used their time to highlight the spread of measles cases under anti-vaccine activist and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. It’s an important topic. The problem, though, is that Fauci and other public health officials who lied and manipulated the public under the banner of “science” have a lot to do with the collapse of trust in the institutions that help fight measles outbreaks. Failing to get any accountability or full transparency from those who botched the COVID pandemic response only fuels more suspicion and skepticism about vaccines. And, make no mistake, avoiding accountability and transparency are the real reasons Fauci took the Fifth. David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Backpack ministry receives boost to fight childhood hunger The program helps provide food assistance for students when school meals are not available By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal A $1,700 GRANT from the Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation will help Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries continue providing weekend food backpacks for children facing food insecurity in Duplin County. “It will provide approximately 250 weekend backpacks of child-friendly, nutritious food for students from food-insecure homes in five area schools during the fall,” said Connie Perkins, Duplin
Christian Outreach Ministries co-director. The grant, awarded through the foundation’s Nourishing Our Neighbors program, will support the Feed Our Hungry Children Backpack Ministry as it prepares to serve students during the 2026-27 school year. The program provides backpacks filled with food for children to take home on weekends when school meals are unavailable. During the last school year, volunteers distributed more than 7,100 backpacks and another 850 during the summer, according to Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries co-director Jim Perry. Perkins said the need remains significant in Duplin County, where 13% of house-
holds are food insecure compared with 11% statewide. She said 20% of children live in food-insecure households, compared with 15% statewide. “The weekend backpacks provide peace of mind for struggling families, stability for the children and youth, and support for educators who strive daily to meet multiple needs, including nutrition, of the students they serve,” Perkins told Duplin Journal. Perkins said the Backpack Ministry relies on support from individuals, local churches, businesses, civic groups and grants to continue providing weekend food assistance to students in the community. Donations to the Backpack Ministry are accepted year-round.
TEACHER from page A1 “Duplin County Schools and the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office take allegations of this nature very seriously,” the statement said. “The safety and well-being of our students remains our highest priority.” Court records obtained by Duplin Journal state the exploitation charges involve allegations related to the possession and facilitation of visual materials, including videos and photographs of a sexual nature, featuring a 17-year-old student. Graves faces 20 felony counts across three separate criminal cases, according to court records. The charges include 14 counts of “sex act with a student” for alleged incidents occurring between November 2023 and December 2024. Additionally, Graves is charged with three counts of “first-degree sex exploitation of a minor” and three counts of “third-de-
COURTESY
James Wesley Graves gree sex exploitation of a minor.” The investigation remains ongoing. Graves’ first appearance hearing was Monday. No additional information has been released. Anyone with information related to the investigation is encouraged to contact the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office at 910-296-2150 or Duplin County Crime Stoppers at 910-372-9202. Information may be provided anonymously.
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COURTESY DUPLIN CHRISTIAN OUTREACH MINISTRIES
From left to right, Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries volunteers Chuck Curry, Tom Perkins, Jerry Teachey, Jim Perry, Mike Stone, Herman Sykes, Harry Bradshaw and John Montford unload food for the Backpack Ministry during the 2025-26 school year.
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REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Backstreet Music Festival celebrates community legacy Families gathered along historic Boney Street in downtown Wallace on Saturday for the Backstreet Music Festival, enjoying live music, food trucks, local vendors, show cars and motorcycles, and family-friendly activities. The event celebrated the history of Backstreet as a place of community, entrepreneurship and connection, honoring the legacy of a neighborhood that served as a gathering place for residents during the segregation era.
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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Realistic training prepares officers for active threats The annual exercise used realistic scenarios to prepare officers for high-stress emergencies
“We expanded the curriculum by adding hands-on training in the treatment of traumatic wounds in the field, and for many officers that proved to be one of the most valuable parts of the program.”
By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal WITH CLASSROOMS empty before the start of the school year, Wallace police officers and school resource officers from the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office participated in realistic active threat training last Thursday at Wallace Elementary School. This year’s training offered more realistic scenarios than in the past, including blank shotgun rounds from the “intruder,” bleeding from the victims using special prosthetics and sound effects of people screaming amid the mayhem. The scenario the officers were training for involved a call from dispatch that a man with a gun had entered the school. Officers had to respond with that being the only information provided, meaning they were entering a situation where they had no idea where the intruder was or what was currently happening. This year’s training marks the sixth year the Wallace Police has participated in active threat training. Wallace Police Chief James Crayton said they are always trying to improve the experience. “This year was no exception,” Crayton said. “We expanded the curriculum by adding hands-on training in the treatment of traumatic wounds in the field, and for many officers, that proved to be one of the most valuable parts of the program.” Chief J.G. Whitley of Youngsville Police Department returned as an instructor this year and agreed with Crayton on the value of the medical side of the training. Whitley told Duplin Journal that law enforcement officers responding to a situation like an active shooter in a
James Crayton, Wallace police chief
PHOTOS BY MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Wallace Police Chief James Crayton, left, explains the scenario to members of the Wallace Police Department and school resource officers from the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office will be responding to during active threat training at Wallace Elementary School last week.
Law enforcement officers practice applying a tourniquet to “victim” Glenn Price during realistic active threat training conducted by the Wallace Police Department at Wallace Elementary School last week. school can find themselves having to make split-second decisions about helping victims while, at the same time, trying to locate and stop the intruder.
“What we typically focus on is to stop further injury,” Whitley said. “As the officers make their way down these hallways, they are, as best they can, triag-
ing victims and trying to make a mental note of the severity of the injuries. Whitley added that once the shooter is stopped, the officers can then return to the victims and begin to help them in order of the severity of their injuries until EMS can arrive. He also noted the use of more technology in this year’s training. “Today is really going to be as real as it gets,” Whitley said. “We have simulated live fire exercises where we’ll be using 12-gauge blanks. As you can imagine, that can shock the conscience in the confines of a classroom. Also, our tech officers actually have created simulated wounds that show profuse bleeding.” One of the tech officers involved in the training this year was Elizabeth McAdams, a colleague of Whitley’s at the Youngsville Police Department. McAdams is not only a sworn police officer but also has a ba-
sic Emergency Medical Technician certification and a Tactical Medical Practitioner certificate. “That means I can provide some emergency care under a combat or an active shooter type situation,” McAdams told Duplin Journal. She used her training and background to pass along skills to the officers involved in this year’s course. “A lot of these situations require emergency medical skills, which a lot of officers don’t really have,” McAdams said. “This isn’t a certification class, but it does give just enough tools in your tool belt to be able to save yourself or somebody else.” Crayton said another valuable asset of the training is the volunteers who fulfilled roles as students and injured victims during the training, adding another realistic dimension to the scenario. One of the volunteers who played the role of a victim was Glenn Price, who serves on the Wallace Town Council. “Every community where this has happened has said, ‘It won’t happen here,’” Price said. “It can happen anywhere, so being able to practice and run through their procedures and make it as realistic as possible for the police officers I think is very important.”
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DUPLIN SPORTS Updates needed in transfer rules for prep athletes
COLUMN | MICHAEL JAENICKE
Answering the call “When I die, my God will judge me on how I played the game. That’s how I feel about both football and life. Kevin Motsinger
AFTER TEACHING and being a head football coach for two decades, Kevin Motsinger found his calling in life, many times by guiding teenagers about real-life issues. Countless times he’s asked players to “man up” on the field and take care of their responsibilities in school and on the home front. Wallace-Rose Hill’s discipline and love-preaching gridiron coach didn’t have to be told it was his time to step up to be tested as a man, husband and father three years ago, when Perry, his wife of three decades, was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2023. Three months later, she had a bilateral mastectomy with reconstructive surgery. A month later, she couldn’t lift her right arm because the surgery affected
the fibers in her shoulder. Perry, who recently had to sell her long-running optometrist practice in Burgaw, couldn’t dress, eat, drink or wash her hair with her arm of preference and, most importantly, had trouble holding onto equipment and couldn’t hold a pen to transcribe her notes. As it turns out, she was about to go through a series of medical nightmares. One problem after another followed. It’s the story of breast cancer people don’t see when they wear pink for a few days. Before you hear the rest of Perry’s journey, let’s stop to examine the actions and behavior of her husband. It was his time to walk the walk, and in the process, keep his end of the marriage vows.
Pressure to excel has players seeking greener pigskin pastures
MICHAEL JAENICKE / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Perry Motsinger was forced to give up her optometry practice after more than 20 years because of cancer, though she gets help and love from sons Deacon and Ruger. Commitment to youth, his sons and wife Sons Ruger, 15, and Deacon, 13, were and remain much like his students and players at WRH in that they need guidance, discipline and an See MOTSINGER, page B3
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Kevin Motsinger, who is entering his ninth season at WRH, is nearing the coveted 200-win mark. Yet he’s more proud of the many players he sent to the Division I ranks.
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal BEULAVILLE — Even those people living under a seashell at the beach heard the news about DJ Davis transferring from East Duplin to Harrells Christian Academy. Unlike professional sports, these Panthers did not gain by the transaction by having a dip in their salary cap. HCA did what it could and played within the rules. But the timing of it all — the first official week of practice — is a bit of a mind-bender. Battle Holley had no doubt been working with Davis throughout the summer. It hurts because after losing Shawn Davis, the team’s leading rusher the past three seasons (3,830 yards, 58 TDs), and Aaron Hall (919 yards, 10 TDs), ED was without a doubt counting on Dewayne “DJ” Davis to be a key contributor this fall. He rushed for 383 yards and seven touchdowns with 92 tackles and four interceptions on defense. The rising senior was slated to be the starting quarterback in Beulaville before his change of heart. And perhaps it’s a good move for him since he will still be working in the Wing-T offense, though both teams throw the ball equally, as ED’s Branson Norris was 40 of 88 for 628 yards and 12 touchdowns, while HCA grad Reid Strickland had very comparable statistics — 43-86 for 823 yards and 12 touchdowns. Defensively, Davis is a top athlete who could help any program. DJ Davis will join running back Jeremiah Davis (103-1,143 yards, 14 TDs) in the Crusaders backfield. While NCHSAA schools frequently lose players to NCISAA schools, player movement has started to mirror what is going on in the NCAA. Transferring is now easier than it has ever been. It’s almost as if anything flies. Forget about the NCHSAA’s transfer policy of sitting out. Every offseason is now a free-for-all. It’s not about a family moving to another town or city anymore. Yet local school districts are allowed to create their own criteria to override state guidelines. “I have no issue with a kid if it helps him develop,” said Hobbton head coach Adam Scronce, a longtime offensive coordinator at WRH who learned under the late Jack Holley. “What bothers me is we are not teaching kids to be resilient and handle situations. Kids don’t want to work for See FOOTBALL, page B2
VOLLEYBALL
Maggie Brown led ND last season with 172 kills.
Rebels rebuilding, reloading with new offensive scheme North Duplin won 19 matches in 2025 but lost three key players to graduation By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal CALYPSO — Heather Best had question marks about her volleyball team before the start of the 2025 season. How will her Rebels navi-
gate the loss of two long-time starters? How would the competition be in the new seven-team 1A/2A Carolina Conference? Could a couple of veterans raise the level of their individual game? Would travel to East Bladen, West Columbus and East Columbus affect the play of the Rebels? It all worked out, as Lilly Fulghum and Marissa Bernal became monster players
to offset the loss of Tatewayna Faison, who notched 127 kills, as ND went 12-9 and captured a first-round home playoff win for the first time in what seems like ages. Best will need a handful of players to be efficient and productive during primetime this fall. “It’s a different team, and it’s kind of a rebuilding and See REBELS, page B4
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B2 JAMES KENAN TIGERS Head coach: Tim Grady
Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Countdown to opening kickoff starts
Aug. 21 vs Southern Wayne Aug. 28 OPEN Sept. 4 vs. Southern Nash Sept. 11 at East Duplin Sept. 18 at Spring Creek Sept. 25 vs. Rosewood Oct. 2 at Midway Oct. 9 vs. Goldsboro Oct. 16 at C.B. Aycock Oct. 23 vs. Princeton Oct. 30 at Wallace-RH
WALLACE-ROSE HILL BULLDOGS Head coach: Kevin Motsinger Aug. 21 at East Duplin
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Getting into football shape is an important part of preseason practices for JK and all area schools.
Aug. 28 vs. Kinston Sept. 4 vs. Clinton Sept. 11 vs. Pender Sept. 18 OPEN Sept. 25 at Goldsboro Oct. 2 vs. Princeton Oct. 9 vs. Midway Oct. 16 at Spring Creek Oct. 23 at Rosewood Oct. 30 vs. James Kenan
NORTH DUPLIN REBELS Head coach: Hugh Martin MICHAEL JAENICKE / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Aug. 21 vs. SouthsideChocowinity Aug. 28 vs. Rosewood
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Sept. 4 at Spring Creek
Left, former JK quarterback and current assistant Ken Avent III helps OC Tim Grady with the Tigers’ attack plans. Right, WRH will work out of the Wing-T and the Single-Wing attacks this fall.
Sept. 11 vs. Jones
Left, JK’s Lee McRae tests his speed and agility during a drill. Right, JK head coach Tim Grady says his team’s pad level and push is key to opening holes for running backs. Bottom, Coaches Hugh Martin, right, and Brad Rhodes show ND players techniques and movement needed for a play.
Sept. 18 vs. Lakewood Sept. 25 OPEN Oct. 2 at East Bladen Oct. 9 at West Columbus Oct. 16 vs. Union Oct. 23 at East Columbus Oct. 30 vs. Hobbton
EAST DUPLIN PANTHERS Head coach: Battle Holley Aug. 21 vs. Wallace-Rose Hill Aug. 28 at Princeton Sept. 4 vs. Richlands Sept. 11 vs. James Kenan Sept. 18 at Jacksonville Sept. 25 BYE Oct. 2 at Southwest Onslow Oct. 9 at Trask Oct. 16 vs. Clinton Oct. 23 vs. Pender Oct. 30 at South Lenoir
HARRELLS CHRISTIAN CRUSADERS Head coach: Clayton Hall
PHOTOS BY EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Aug. 21 at Parrott Aug. 28 at Wayne Christian Sept. 4 vs. Christ School Sept. 11 vs. South Wake Academy Sept. 18 vs. Ambassador Christian Sept. 25 vs. Covenant Day Oct. 2 vs. North Raleigh Christian Oct. 9 vs. Asheville Christian Oct. 16 at High Point Christian Oct. 23 at Ravenscroft Oct. 30 vs Trinity Christian
RICHLANDS WILDCATS Head coach: William Good Aug. 21 vs. Southwest Onslow Aug. 28 vs. White Oak Sept. 4 vs. East Duplin Sept. 11 at South Brunswick Sept. 18 at Havelock Sept. 25 at NorthsideJacksonville Oct. 2 OPEN Oct. 9 vs. Croatan Oct. 16 at West Carteret Oct. 23 vs. Dixon Oct. 30 at Swansboro
FOOTBALL from page B1 it anymore. They don’t want to fight through, they want to run to where it’s easier.” Transfers are everywhere. Of the eight football teams in the state finals in 2024, only two did not have a transfer player. In basketball, half the teams that played in the Final Four had a transfer player. Clearly, the entire state should have open enrollment or it should be prohibited everywhere. Some states have open enrollment. Others have a sit-out year. Some allow one transfer with immediate eligibility. It’s also been suggested that transfers sit out a number of days or weeks before getting playing time at their new school. Yet forcing a player to sit out will drive athletes to NCISAA schools. Coaches are in a predicament. Should they apologize for having a winning program? What comes next is players flocking to a super power school. But is that wrong on the part of the athlete or his parents? Coaches also feel robbed of a player they might have developed. Yet there are far too many players who “run,” and their
parents can be the cause. Parents want the best for their children and often feel they are better than what the coach says when he watches tapes of a game on Saturdays and Sundays. Players and parents, who act like all-knowing general managers, are more empowered than ever. Think LaVar Ball and double his insanity. Prep players can also switch from NCISAA to NCHSAA when the parent signs a document. For instance, fullback/ linebacker Jarrod Miller (694 yards, 11 TDs) left HCA for Wallace-Rose Hill this summer. Transfers can also be thought of in the same manner as classifications. They exist because it’s not fair for North Duplin, a school 10 students shy of being a 1A, to compete with a 3A such as Whiteville. Perhaps in a scrimmage, but not in a game — and that’s not dishing on the Rebels. Clinton’s quarterback in 2025 bolted for Southview after transferring in for one season with the Dark Horses. So, “go where it’s best for you” is the lesson. New NCHSAA Commissioner Brad Alford will have to deal with this issue after taking
6 of 8 Schools in the 2024 football finals that had a transfer player
over for Que Tucker a month ago. Another hot topic is the battle cry for all private and charter schools to have their own state championships, independent of what the bulk of the 400 or so NCHSAA schools do. Coaches screaming the loudest are in 1A and 2A. Former North Duplin football coach Ken Avent had a reasonable solution to classification fairness when he said charter and private schools should take the classification of the largest school in their county. Yet transfers abound and will likely only multiply until new rules are adopted. This alone would stop school administrators from investigating the home of a potential transfer to prove residency. While it’s an interesting and touchy topic, expect to hear more about transfers in the next few years.
“It’s hard to compete with power programs getting transfers because the playing field isn’t level,” Scronce said. In the past, every school has used transfer players. Today, schools are recruiting, and players are on the hunt to move to the best possible school for their athletic skills. It’s time to enforce the rules and make new ones that don’t make schools look like thieves in the night. In fact, many schools have joined the Transfer Bowl, perhaps out of necessity. When a neighboring school or rival does it, the balance of power shifts. And in many cases, the so-called “cheaters or rule-breakers” benefit enough to continue their ways, almost forcing others to follow. Something has to change. New Jersey, for example, has a one-time transfer portal. Alford and other state associations have a lot of work to do. Yet the rules need to be the same for one and all states. While there is more to this story than meets the eye of the public, here’s a quick solution: Make transfers sit out three games and have open enrollment among all schools. Yet even that is so far removed from the way it has always been done.
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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
MOTSINGER from page B1 example of a man who quietly takes the bull by the horns, prays for strength and the wherewithal to be both tender and tough. “You work disciplining teenagers all day and then go home to cook, clean, be present in all things, and that’s extremely challenging,” said longtime WRH offensive coordinator Adam Scronce, who took over as head football coach at Hobbton last fall. “You would have never really known what he was going through at home.” “The coaches and players knew,” said longtime assistant Will Jeffers, “but the balancing act he does is incredible. It’s like a company commander who has to do so much for others on all fronts.” Motsinger said he’s committed, even though it feels like he’s going through different doorways in hell. “I praise God she’s still here through sickness and health and better and worse,” Motsinger said. “For more than 30 years I’ve taught kids in a weight room, gym or on a field that if you want to get to heaven, you must be willing to go through hell. “God does give us more than we can handle. That’s a misconception. I’ve learned that over the years that it’s never more than He can handle. Here’s what I also know: I have a God who can conquer death and trumps hell.” Deadly foe fires all-out assault on Perry The medical hits to Perry kept coming in 2024 as treatments to heal her right shoulder were in vain as she was screaming and crying in pain when she came home from her office. Doctors couldn’t break up the scar tissue, and by February her left shoulder froze. She developed a herniated disc in her back and in September had spinal surgery with fusion to fix her neck. She had two metal plates, four screws and a cadaver bone placed in her neck. Thirteen months later, more agony surfaced when scans found cancer spots on her
uterus, which could have been caused by the breast cancer medication. Doctors performed an emergency surgery and the radical hysterectomy to remove her ovaries and cervix. She returned to her home but then had to have bladder surgery. Her mobility came through a walker and wheelchair by January 2026. Shortly thereafter she was diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome, which often happens with thin, post-mastectomy patients. And if you happened to miss it, she was in what most people would describe as unbearable pain with plenty of sleepless nights. “I have no idea how she does it other than I know we serve a big God,” said the coach. “She has been able to teach the boys and still be a phenomenal mother. The boys have continued to make straight A’s, excel on the soccer and football fields, and be great in all their competitions. It’s been a blessing to see them grow as young men and be there for their family while continuing to handle their responsibilities. Life lessons, indeed, even for the 53-year-old ball coach. “That’s what I’ve tried to do as well,” he said. “I have a job to do. I have a responsibility to the kids that are placed in my care. They are entrusting me to love them, care for them and lead them. To truly help them be the best they can be. To steward them into being a man and not a full-grown little boy. By day and on Friday nights, he’s present for students and athletes. “The WRH community is entrusting me to keep our football program relevant and vital,” he said. “I’ve tried to teach that when you have a job, you get it done.” Football as a teaching tool At WRH, he teaches both discipline and love and shows how. Despite what some people might think, they work in conjunction with one another. “You can’t fake love,” he often says. “When I die, my God will judge me on how I played the game. That’s how
I feel about both football and life. “And again, I thank God Perry is still here. It’s what I focus on. She gives us all a lot of love, and I believe the closest thing to Jesus’ love is the love a mother has for her child.” Motsinger is an incredible coach by any standard, and not because he has a 180-85 career record with stops at New Hanover (nine years) and James Kenan (three). I said in 2017 that if his teams were only .500 he was making a significant impact at WRH. Indeed he has, going 83-34 as he heads into his ninth campaign in Teachey. Yet much more importantly, he’s been a guide for countless athletes — and anyone in the school’s hallways. Given a chance to practice what he preaches may have just been his God’s game-of-life test. Motsinger also gives kudos to two of his guides: his parents, Hugh and Betty Jo Motsinger, and Perry’s parents, Jim and Sue Culpepper. “Great guidance,” he said. “I give all the power to God for strength to do what I have ahead of me each day.” Folks in Warsaw have an appreciation for how Motsinger rebuilt the JK program into that 24-24 record after it went 9-25 in the three previous seasons. In Wilmington, they admire him as if he were a guru in developing and getting the most out of athletes — and young men. So if Motsinger isn’t the best football coach or WRH doesn’t advance to the region final in a given season, he’s still perhaps “the best man for the job.” He’s had plenty of opportunities to go elsewhere. Bigger places with more staff. He’s staying home with Perry and the boys, and he could never coach at another school. He’s definitely still in love with his wife, more than ever these days. “She’s my best friend,” he said. “She’s my wife. She’s my queen. I will have her back as long as I draw breath.” For Motsinger, love and loyalty are, without a doubt, action words.
WRH’s Kevin Motsinger has a way of getting players to reach their maximum potential, which he did at James Kenan for years and at New Hanover for nine.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE
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Sophia Jones
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
East Duplin, volleyball Panthers fans are expecting two big seasons from Sophia Jones. The junior will start off as a key hitter for the ED volleyball team. She had 80 kills, 50 blocks and 46 aces last season as the Panthers went 22-3 and captured an ECC title. Last spring, she hit .426 with eight doubles, two triples, a homer and 28 RBIs for 19-4 ED, who made it to the fourth round of the 4A state softball tournament. Jones, who plays first base, could also wind up in the circle. East Duplin returns a flock of players on both squads. Jones and the Panthers open up the season Aug. 11 with a trip to Teachey to face archrival Wallace-Rose Hill.
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TOWN OF WARSAW The Planning Board of Warsaw NC has scheduled a Public Hearing to be held on Thursday evening, 27 Aug 2026 at 6:30 PM. The public hearing will take place at the Town of Warsaw Town Hall. The purpose of the public hearing is to receive comments from interested people with respect to the Town’s draft Unified Development Ordinance.
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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
NOTICES
REBELS from page B1 reloading year,” Best said. “We have different talent, and I’m adjusting our offense to it. We have six seniors, some of which played part time but all of whom played for us last year in some capacity.” Finding players to do what Fulghum (131 digs, 63 aces, 386 assists) and Bernal (397 digs, 55 aces) could be in the hands of Carrly Strickland (107 digs, 31 aces), Gracie Higginbotham (79 digs, 51 aces, 31 kills, 28 assists) and Sophia Davis (88 digs). Look for big hits from returning hitters Maggie Brown (172 kills), Abby Norris (100 kills), Kloe DeHoyas (45 kills) and promising sophomore Yesenia Maldonando (13 kills). “I’ll have a much better idea where we are after our Saturday scrimmage,” Best said. “We have a kaleidoscope of different levels and different leaders. A player can play 22 matches during a season, so we can bring players from the junior varsity. Two frosh that will be called up are Caroline Stevens and Marissa Sanchez. Bernal’s sister, sophomore Gizelle Bernal, is also available . Bulldogs also building new team In Teachey, head coach Kevin Williams is dealing with the loss of three all-state players — Angelia Cavallaro, Jansley Page and Mattie Gavin, longtime starters that led WRH to an 87-13 mark in four seasons. Senior Gabby Debnam (68 kills) is the most experienced Bulldog, though classmates Isabella Parker, Payton Tyndall, Cloe Faircloth and Jaymie Gantgt will be counted on heavily. Otherwise, the roster is filled with underclassmen itching for a chance to play. Juniors Keyonna Thomas and Azee Monk, sophomore Hannah Baker, and freshmen Allie Henderson, MacKeithan Cross, Lila Kennedy and Savannah Rivenbark
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY FILE#26E000306-300 The undersigned, LYDIA JUDD CARROLL, having qualified on the 21ST DAY of JULY 2026, as EXECUTOR of the Estate of ARTHUR LOWENBACK CARROLL, JR., deceased, of DUPLIN County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 6TH Day of NOVEMBER 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 6TH Day of AUGUST 2026. LYDIA JUDD CARROLL, EXECUTOR 1235 N NC HWY 41 PINK HILL, NC 28572 Run dates:A6,13,20,27p
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
PHOTOS BY EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Aleyah Wilson and JK look to be more competitive this fall. represent both this fall and the future for WRH. Panthers sit as preseason favorites East Duplin lost Zoe Cavanaugh (138 kills, 189 digs) and Zoe Turner (122 kills, 146 digs) from its 22-3 ECC-winning club but return enough to make the Panthers, who advanced to the fourth round in the 4A playoffs, a preseason favorite. Head coach Susan Raynor, who stresses team play, has the talent to fill the void left by both. Kinsey Cave (178 kills, 52 aces, 30 blocks, 159 digs, 205 assists) put up incredible numbers last season. She will get help from Sophia Jones (80 kills, 55 blocks), Ben-
Heather Best had ND in a position to win the Carolina Conference last fall.
nett Holley (71 kills, 110 digs, 114 assists), Lauren Cottle (81 digs, 150 assists), Bella Kornegay (86 digs) and Karsyn Parker (249 digs, 54 aces). Tigers look to improve under Blaylock James Kenan went 7-14 in its first season under head coach Hannah Blaylock. Expect more this fall, especially if Y’Anna Rivers, Aleyah Wilson and Jovie Hall return to the court. The Tigers should improve from their 3-9 Swine Valley Conference mark and could be a .500-plus club as young talent learns the ways of Blaylock, a former Meredith College player.
FILE NUMBER: 26SP000052-300 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by BETTIE HILL PICKETT dated September 24, 2001 in the amount of $85,000.00 and recorded in Book 1362, Page 488 of the Duplin 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 Official Records of Duplin County, North Carolina, in Book 2113, Page 839, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Duplin County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on August 19, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Duplin, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 13-2777 ADDRESS: 105 DEER HOUND DRIVE KENANSVILLE, NC 28349 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): BETTIE HILL PICKETT THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF DUPLIN, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 1362, PAGE 488, AS FOLLOWS: LOCATED IN KENANSVILLE TOWNSHIP. DUPLIN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA AND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT NO. 1, AS SHOWN AND DELINEATED ON THAT RECORDED MAP ENTITLED “DEER HOUND PLANTATION”, AND APPEARING OF RECORD IN MAP BOOK 12, AT PAGE 253, DUPLIN COUNTY REGISTRY, AND REFERENCE IS HERE MADE TO SAID RECORDED MAP FOR A MORE ACCURATE DESCRIPTION. AND FURTHER BEING THE SAME PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN A DEED FROM RALPH DAVID MOULTON AND WIFE, JUDITH LOUDEN MOULTEN, DATED JULY 7, 1997, RECORDED IN DEED BOOK 1215, PAG 772, DUPLIN COUNTY REGISTRY. 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 offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered 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 officers, 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 offered 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 five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified 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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination. THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection. IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANK-RUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY. Sarah A. Waldron or Terrass Scott Misher, Esq ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorneys for the Substitute Trustee 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Telephone: (470) 321-7112
NOTICE OF QUASI-JUDICIAL PUBLIC HEARING TOWN OF WALLACE, NORTH CAROLINA August 13, 2026, After 6:00 P.M. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Council of the Town of Wallace will conduct a Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing at the Wallace Women’s Club, located at 216 N. East Railroad Street, Wallace, North Carolina 28466, on Thursday, August 13, 2026, after 6:00 P.M., to consider the following application: Request: Special Use Permit for a Multi-Family Residential Development The applicant is seeking approval of a Special Use Permit to construct a 120-unit apartment
complex on property located on Old Wilmington Road, identified as Parcel ID 09-4901 and PIN 3305010464582, pursuant to the requirements of the Town of Wallace Unified Development Ordinance. This hearing will be conducted as a quasijudicial proceeding. All persons wishing to present testimony or evidence shall be sworn prior to speaking. Testimony must be competent, material, and relevant to the standards applicable to the requested Special Use Permit. The Town Council’s decision will be based solely upon the competent, material, and substantial evidence presented during
the hearing and the applicable provisions of the Unified Development Ordinance. Any person who believes they have standing as a party to the proceeding may appear in person or be represented by legal counsel. Parties may present evidence, call witnesses, and cross-examine witnesses as permitted by law. The application and supporting materials are available for public inspection at Wallace Town Hall during normal business hours. Persons having questions may contact Rod Fritz, Planning Director, at (910) 285-4136 or by email at rfritz@wallacenc.gov.
NOTICE OF QUASI-JUDICIAL PUBLIC HEARING TOWN OF WALLACE, NORTH CAROLINA August 13, 2026, After 6:00 P.M NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Council of the Town of Wallace will conduct a Quasi-Judicial Public Hearing at the Wallace Women’s Club, located at 216 N. East Railroad Street, Wallace, North Carolina 28466, on Thursday, August 13, 2026, after 6:00 P.M., to consider the following application: Request: Mobile and Manufactured Home Park Operator Permit The applicant is seeking approval of a Mobile and
Manufactured Home Park Operator Permit pursuant to the requirements of the Town of Wallace Unified Development Ordinance. This hearing will be conducted as a quasijudicial proceeding. All persons wishing to present testimony or evidence shall be sworn prior to speaking. Testimony must be competent, material, and relevant to the standards applicable to the permit request. The Town Council’s decision will be based solely upon the competent, material, and substantial evidence presented during the hearing and the applicable provisions of the Unified
Development Ordinance. Any person who believes they have standing as a party to the proceeding may appear in person or be represented by legal counsel. Parties may present evidence, call witnesses, and cross-examine witnesses as permitted by law. The application and supporting materials are available for public inspection at Wallace Town Hall during normal business hours. Persons having questions may contact Rod Fritz, Planning Director, at (910) 285-4136 or by email at rfritz@wallacenc.gov.
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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
obituaries
SPONSORED BY QUINN MCGOWEN FUNERAL HOME
Nick Owen Harris Sr.
Willie Davis Lamb
Arlie Gordon Raynor
Edna Frances Grady Arnette
Jan. 8, 1934 – July 30, 2026
Nov. 21, 1962 – July 28, 2026
Feb. 8, 1938 – July 29, 2026
Jan. 12, 1941 – July 27, 2026
Nick Owen Harris Sr., age 92, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 30, 2026. He was born on January 8, 1934, and lived a life defined by faith, service, hard work, generosity, and unwavering love for his family. Nick proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. His service reflected the courage, commitment, and sense of duty that remained evident throughout his life. Following his military service, Nick enjoyed a long and dedicated career with General Electric, where he retired after many years of faithful employment. He was respected for his strong work ethic, integrity, and dependable character. A faithful member of Jordan’s Chapel Methodist Church, Nick’s relationship with God and service to the church were the foundation of his life. He faithfully served his church and community, always seeking to encourage and help others. His life was a testament to faith, service, humility, and love. Nick found great joy in farming and gardening and was well known for sharing the vegetables he grew with neighbors, friends, and family. His generosity and kindness touched countless lives and made everyone around him feel cared for. Above all, Nick was a devoted husband, loving father, proud grandfather, cherished greatgrandfather, and a wonderful neighbor. His greatest legacy is the love he gave so freely to his family and community. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patsy Woodcock Harris, and his parents, Annie and Joseph Harris. Nick was also preceded in death by his eight siblings: Mary Chadwick, Johnny Harris, Robbie Harris, Elizabeth Brill, Edna Bond, Mack Harris, Violet Goff, and Maggie Jordan. Nick is survived by his children, Sharon West, Nick Harris, Jr. (Janet), and Teresa Cating (Hugh); grandchildren, Brian West (Allison), Sarah West (Gary), Brooke Harris, Alli Floyd (Ryan), Savannah Toomey (Conor) and Hunter Cating; great grandchildren, Joleigh Gore, Zoey Gore, Claire West and Ava West. Nick’s memory will forever live on in the hearts of his family, friends, church family, and all who were blessed to know him. His life was a testament to faith, service, humility, and love. “Well done, good and faithful servant.”— Matthew 25:23 Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing he is at peace in the presence of his Lord, reunited with those who have gone before him. The funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Jordan’s Chapel Methodist Church, 4670 Stag Park Road, Burgaw, with the Rev. Darren Poe conducting the service. The family will receive friends at 1:00 p.m., one hour prior to the service. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. The family would like to thank Cardinal Hospice.
Willie Davis Lamb, 63, of Clinton, NC, passed away July 28, 2026, at Sampson Regional Medical Center in Clinton, NC. Funeral service will be at noon Friday, July 31, 2026, at Keathern Missionary Baptist Church in Harrells, NC. Public viewing will be 11:00 a.m. - noon (one hour prior to the service).
Arlie Gordon Raynor passed away July 29, 2026, at the Veterans Home in Kinston. He was born on February 8, 1938, to Riley & Lillian Raynor. He was one of 9 brothers and sisters and was the last one to pass away. Gordon, as he was known, served in the Air Force from 1960-1964. He worked as an advertising executive in Raleigh for the News & Observer for 23 years, until his retirement in June 1990. Gordon’s life was spent being totally devoted to his family, to his mother, father, brothers, sisters, and ultimately to his nieces, nephews and their families. Left to cherish his memory are his son, Tommy Daniels of Georgia and a special friend, Larry Craven of Raleigh, NC. His was a life truly well lived. The funeral service will be Sunday, August 2, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Community Funeral Home in Beulaville, NC. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Interment will be at East Duplin Memorial Gardens in Beulaville, NC Community Funeral Home of Beulaville is honored to serve the Raynor family.
Rose Hill - Edna Frances Grady Arnette, 85, passed away Monday, July 27, 2026, at her home. Mrs. Arnette was born January 12, 1941, in Duplin County, NC, to the late Benjamin F. and Ruth Kennedy Grady. Mrs. Grady is survived by her son, Greg Arnette of Rose Hill, NC; grandchildren, Anthony Arnette and wife, Jonae; Christy Marie Blackburn; Jonathan Arnette; Charity Walker; greatgrandchildren, Nevaeh, Brantley and Analeigh Arnette. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Hubert Arnette; son, Randy Arnette; brothers, James Grady, Ben Grady and Johnny Grady. Arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be announced as soon as they are available.
Peggy Wells Whitted July 25, 2026 Peggy Wells Whitted, 87, of Harkers Island, passed away peacefully at home Saturday morning, July 25, 2026. She grew up in the Rones Chapel Community and later resided in the Mount Olive and Calypso areas before retiring at Harkers Island. She worked many years in the Wayne County School District and later owned and operated the Mount Olive Florist with her husband. Although she had a love for nature, including flowers, butterflies, and birds, her greatest love was for her Savior, Jesus, and her husband, children and grandchildren. In her later years, she loved to “minister” to others through phone calls and sending them books from some of her favorite ministers. Her Harkers Island home was always full of pictures of all her family and a yard full of flowers. She was a member of Smyrna Pentecostal Holiness Church. She was preceded in death by her husband and lifelong sweetheart of 63 years, Neville Ormond Whitted, Sr., her parents, Johnny Mac and Sadie Dixon Wells; sisters, Winnifred Wells, Shirley Wells Ellis and husband, Fred Ellis, Beverette Wells Davis and husband, Williams Davis; sister-in-law, Evelyn W. Wells; and brothers, J.W. Wells, McCray “Crow” Wells, Everette “Shorty” Wells, and Cecil Wells. She is survived by her son, Ormond Whitted, Jr and wife, Lori of Mount Olive and daughter, Ann W. Lewis and husband, Mike of the home at Harkers Island; , grandson, Graham Whitted and wife, Amber and their children, Avery, Taylor, Rowen, Luke and Devon of Mar Mac, grandson, Cody Whitted of Scotts Store, granddaughter, Annsley Brazelton and husband, Nick of Williston. She is also survived by her sisters, Linda Kay Wells of Rones Chapel and Betty Wells Reaves and husband, Jimmy of Little River, SC, brother-in-law, Leslie Ray Whitted of Mount Olive and several special nieces and nephews. Services were held by the graveside at Wells-Southerland Cemetery in the Rones Chapel community, Mount Olive, at 3:00 p.m. Sunday, August 2. Officiating was Pastor Jeffrey Dail of Mount Olive Pentecostal Holiness Church.
Addie Hester Powell Oct. 7, 1940 – July 27, 2026
Melvin James Kornegay Nov. 28, 1944 – Aug. 1, 2026 Turkey - Melvin James Kornegay, 81, passed away Saturday, August 1, 2026, at his home. Mr. Kornegay was born November 28, 1944, in Duplin County, NC, to the late Major Kornegay and Clara Mae Foss Kornegay. Mr. Kornegay is survived by son, Joseph Ray Kornegay and wife, Tina, of Turkey; grandchildren, Jaden, McKayla, Anthony and Antonio; brothers, Johnny Kornegay of Warsaw, Ronnie Elton Kornegay of Magnolia and Leon Joseph Kornegay of Magnolia; sisters, Annie Ruth Hall of Magnolia, Clara Lee Copeland of Warsaw, and Teresa Harper of Swansboro. In addition to his parents, Mr. Kornegay was preceded in death by brothers, Roy Kornegay, David Ray Kornegay, Major Allen Kornegay, and William Earl Kornegay; sisters, Lucille Kornegay Harrell, Joyce Kornegay, and Florine Kornegay. Arrangements are incomplete at this time and will be announced when available.
Addie Hester Powell, a wellknown accountant of Wallace, NC, passed from her earthly life to her eternal life early Monday morning while a resident of Campbell Health & Rehabilitation Center in Burgaw. Born October 7, 1940, she is the daughter of the late Bland and Maggie Jones Casteen. She is also preceded in death by her siblings—Haywood Casteen, Hilda C. Chappell, K. W. Casteen, Guy Vernon Casteen, and Edgar B. Casteen. Left to cherish her memory are her husband of sixty-eight years—James B. Powell; nieces— Sandra Bocek (Bill) of Belaire (MD); nephew—Robert William Chappell (Phyllis) of Garner; and great-niece—Stacy Novotny (Eric) of Holly Springs. Mrs. Powell was born in New Hanover County to a Christian family in which her grandfather was a Free Will Baptist minister. Upon her marriage to Mr. Powell, she lived in Wallace where she opened her accounting business which still operates today. As a friendly, easy-going, and always happy young lady, she always cherished the many friendships she found in Wallace. It has been said about her that “to know her is to love her” and that was very true of this fine lady. All who knew her knew just how special she was and she never complained about anything. In addition to her love for family, she shared a great love for her canine companions during her life, and it is no secret that her favorite was “Chico”. A graveside service to celebrate her life is set for 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 30, 2026, in the Riverview Memorial Park in Watha, NC. Flowers are welcome or please consider a contribution in memory of Mrs. Powell to Samaritan’s Purse.
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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Wallace Scout troop earns wreath-laying honor at Tomb of the Unknown Soldier The troop will travel to Arlington National Cemetery in November and is raising money to help make the trip By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal WALLACE BOY SCOUT Troop 35 has been selected to place a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery on Nov. 14. Duplin Journal spoke with Scoutmaster Stanley Skidmore, who said it is a big honor for the
troop to be selected, calling it a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.” After being notified of the honor, Skidmore said planning will begin soon for fundraising for the trip to the Washington, D.C., area. They hope to visit several U.S. Capitol-area sights during the visit. “We’ve got to do some fundraising because it’s not going to be cheap,” he said. “We’re having a planning meeting on Aug. 16, and we’re already planning a barbecue fundraiser for Sept. 25.” Skidmore added that the Boy Scouts have stipulations as to
“I’m hoping once the community sees [what is happening] and the significance of it, support will pour in.” Stanley Skidmore how fundraisers are conducted, so they must meet those requirements. He feels confident that people in the area will help the troop make the trip. “I’m hoping once the commu-
nity sees (what is happening) and the significance of it, support will pour in,” he said. The troop is accepting donations for the trip. To make a contribution, contact Skidmore by email at stanleyskidmore@gmail.com or by phone at 910-612-7976. Skidmore, who has been the scoutmaster for six years, said Troop 35 has many active members, including four Scouts who have achieved the rank of Eagle Scout and five who are currently working on Eagle projects. Skidmore’s son, Hayes, became an Eagle Scout last year
at the age of 15, and his brother, Hollis, is following in his footsteps. Troop 35 has been a thriving troop that stays very active. Skidmore said the troop camps monthly for 10 months each year and attends a weeklong summer camp in June. They average 15 to 20 Scouts at every campout. Boy Scout Troop 35 has been a staple in the Wallace area ever since it was founded 85 years ago. The troop meets in a building near Art Meyer Baseball Field painted in Boy Scout colors.
COURTESY STANLEY SKIDMORE
Members of Wallace Boy Scout Troop 35 were selected to place a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in November.
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR CONSIDERATION OF ANNEXATION The public will take notice that the Board of Commissioners of the Town of Teachey has called a public hearing at 6:00 p.m. on August 10, 2026 at the Town Hall for the purpose of considering to annex Bk 2110 Page 1-2 Parcel #09-554-1 Bert Properties located in Island Creek Township, Duplin County, North Carolina. Being a portion of Tract B containing 9.770 acres as shown on map entitled “Type A Expedited Minor Subdivision for Relentless Ventures, LLC of Duplin County Parcel # 09-5554-1” recorded in Map Book 36 Page 366 of the Duplin County Registry. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this matter you can contact The Teachey Town Hall by phone 910-285-7564 or by mail at P.O. Box 145 Teachey NC 28464. Morgan Jacobs – Town Clerk Town of Teachey, N.C.
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WHAT’S HAPPENING Mich. reports first 2 U.S. deaths related to cyclospora parasite Detroit State health officials say two people have died in the cyclospora outbreak in Michigan. They are the first confirmed deaths in the U.S. related to the microscopic parasite. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said Monday that both had underlying health conditions that may have been impacted by the intestinal illness and dehydration. The CDC says cyclospora is a microscopic, spherical parasite that commonly causes watery diarrhea “with frequent and sometimes explosive bowel movements.” The parasite spreads through feces. In the past, people have been infected by consuming fruits or vegetables that were exposed to contaminated irrigation water.
Divided federal appeals court says Trump administration wrong to terminate climate funds Washington, D.C. A federal appeals court has ruled that the Trump administration improperly ended a multibillion-dollar program for clean energy projects. This decision supports a lower court’s ruling that nonprofits chosen to run the Biden-era effort should have access the funds. The ruling is temporarily on hold, allowing the Environmental Protection Agency time to appeal to the Supreme Court. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, known as a “green bank,” was designed to finance small energy projects. The Trump administration accused the nonprofits of mismanagement and fraud, freezing the funds. The groups denied wrongdoing and sued, claiming legal violations.
Guard deployment to Washington, D.C., into 2029 will cost roughly $1.4B, estimate shows The extension of the National Guard deployment in Washington, D.C., until January 2029 will cost roughly $1.4 billion, according to a Defense Department estimate provided to Congress. The figure offers a glimpse of how much taxpayer money will be spent on a deployment that has been criticized by local officials as an infringement of their city’s autonomy and by Democrats who say it has militarized the streets of nation’s capital.
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Stump speech Stanly County Sheriff Jeff Crisco, center, and other North Carolina law enforcement officials endorsed Republican Senate candidate Michael Whatley at an event in Harrisburg last month, saying the election is “about the kind of North Carolina we want to leave behind for our kids and our grandkids.” Crisco is running for election unopposed.
SCC trustee resigns amid scrutiny over Facebook posts, comments Kelly Lowder’s term was set to continue through 2028 By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — Kelly Lowder resigned last Thursday from the Stanly Community College Board of Trustees amid controversy over his recent Facebook activity. The resignation came one
week after Lowder published a July 23 Facebook post about race and a racial slur; he later commented that “people are suffering from black fatigue.” It also came three days after the college released a statement saying trustees’ personal social media activity does not represent the institution or its board. The board did not provide a reason for Lowder’s resignation or indicate whether it was related to his Facebook remarks.
“In a called meeting this afternoon, the Stanly Community College Board of Trustees accepted Trustee Kelly Lowder’s resignation from the Board,” the board said in a statement. “We thank Trustee Lowder for his service and will now work with the North Carolina General Assembly as it follows policy and procedures to select a new Board member.” The General Assembly See LOWDER, page A2
Albemarle council appoints Poplin to ABC Board “My motion is based on the fact that we have three very qualified candidates.” Councilmember Bill Aldridge
Split vote follows debate over interviewing three applicants By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — The Albemarle City Council appointed Gerald Poplin to the Albemarle ABC Board on Monday after rejecting a proposal to interview the three applicants for the vacancy. The appointment, originally tabled at the council’s July 20 meeting, fills the remainder of a term expiring March 16, 2029. The seat had been held by John McIntyre, former chairman of the ABC Board,
who died June 16. He was 68. Poplin was one of three applicants, along with Keith Doucette and John Williams. The council first considered a motion to appoint Poplin before Councilmember Dexter Townsend offered a substitute motion to delay the appointment until a five-member panel could interview the candidates. “We hardly ever make an appointment to the ABC Board,” Townsend said. “I think this may be only the second or third time that we’ve had to do this.” Townsend suggested that interviews would promote transparency and help the See COUNCIL, page A4
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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 5, 2026
WEDNESDAY
8.5.26 #133
Brasseur Trains and STANLY Hobbies opens in Albemarle happening Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Stanly County:
The store sells and services model trains and other hobby supplies
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Aug. 8
ALBEMARLE — Brasseur Trains and Hobbies held its grand opening in its new location this spring at 154 S. First St. in Albemarle. Brasseur Electric Train Repair grew out of a home business, and Katie Brasseur feels they have found the perfect location to continue offering superior repair services and a hobby shop where enthusiasts of varied interests can find the supplies they need, from paints and painting supplies to model kits and rocketry. A love for model trains and restoring them has passed through three generations of the family. Brasseur’s father-in-law was fascinated by trains since he got his first one at the age of 6. He ran a repair shop in Michigan for years, and his son Dean and grandson Jacob assisted him with the work there. Katie and Dean relocated to Concord when he took a job with Lionel Retail Store at Concord Mills Road. Jacob also worked there as a technician before returning to Michigan to help his grandfather. When the business in Michigan closed, Jacob returned to North Carolina, his dad came out of retirement, and the two began working together. The partnership works well because Dean is an expert in repairing and restoring older trains, while Jacob is knowledgeable about newer electronic models. “They make a great pair,” Katie Brasseur said. “As long as they’re together, they’re an unbeatable team.” The new location is spacious and has given the family the room they need to do repair work and expand to include not only the hobby shop but also an area where kids are encouraged
Summer Movie Series: “National Treasure” 6:30-10 p.m. The America 250 Celebration continues with the screening of the family-friendly, modern classic that combines an interesting retelling of our nation’s roots and the reasons that led to the fight for Independence. Attendees are encouraged to shop local at various beverage, food and arts and crafts vendors before and after the movie. The Backyard 186 Ray Kennedy Drive Locust
Now through Aug. 8 PHOTO BY KATIE BRASSEUR
Dean Brasseur shown repairing a model train. to play and learn more about trains. The area has been very receptive to the new store, with Katie Brasseur noting there are “lots of collectors in the Albemarle area,” and the business also takes repair orders from across the country. Brasseur says she feels “absolutely blessed” by the way the family and its business have been embraced by the community. “The downtown association and the chamber have both worked so hard to help promote us and help make us feel welcome and given us pointers on what we should look at doing and some things to avoid and whatnot,” she said.
LOWDER from page A1 appointed Lowder to the 12-member board in 2024 for a term scheduled to run through 2028. Under state law, the General Assembly appoints eight trustees, while the county commissioners select four. “I resigned because I don’t want the calumnious attack against me to distract the college from their mission,” Lowder told SNJ on Friday. “That’s my final statement on the matter.” Lowder’s original post contrasted Shiloh Hendrix’s then-ongoing disorderly conduct trial, stemming from an incident in which she used a racial slur, with a first-degree murder case against Decarlos Brown Jr. When questioned by SNJ on July 27, Lowder confirmed that the account was his and that he wrote the post and his own comments but excluded the displayed “liked” reactions from that confirmation. The post remained public, drawing more than 1,700
“I resigned because I don’t want the calumnious attack against me to distract the college from their mission.” Kelly Lowder comments, before he limited it to friends and said he had received death threats. In the post, Lowder alleged a “double standard” surrounding the N-word, warned of consequences if white people were to “lose” in the United States and wrote that “maybe the world needs a good purge,” which he later said meant starvation following genocide against food producers. In a comment about the Hendrix case, Lowder wrote, “People are suffering from black fatigue. White people get called racists daily, so why fight it?” He later said the
“The downtown association and the chamber have both worked so hard to help promote us and help make us feel welcome and given us pointers on what we should look at doing and some things to avoid.” Katie Brasseur, Brasseur Trains and Hobbies
Summer Art Explosion Exhibition and Competition Tuesday and Wednesday noon to 4 p.m. Thursday and Friday noon to 6 p.m. Saturdays 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. All genres are welcome in this open art exhibition and competition with awards in two categories, 2D Art and 3D Art. Admission is free. Stanly Arts Guild 152 W. Main St. Albemarle
Aug. 11-27 The Art of the Quilt Three Rivers Quilt Guild displays small quilts — all under 36 inches wide — in a free public exhibition.
phrase had gone viral and reflected his analysis of social media. While the post remained public, Facebook displayed reactions labeled “Liked by Author” — with “Author” referring to Lowder’s account — on other users’ comments and images, including material disparaging black people, black neighbors and black single mothers. One reaction labeled “Liked by Author” appeared on a meme depicting a black person with a small brain and the caption, “Ashamed of nothing, offended by everything, contributes nothing, entitled to everything.” Lowder did not confirm that he made the displayed reactions. Instead, he called Facebook’s reaction system “very buggy” and said reactions may be “mis-clicked” and difficult to locate later. With Lowder’s resignation leaving a vacancy, the General Assembly will select his replacement on the SCC Board of Trustees.
Stanly Arts Guild & Gallery 152 W. Main St. Albemarle
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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 5, 2026
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | VICTOR JOECKS
The inadequacy of opposing socialism
It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back.
DON’T ASSUME socialism’s inevitable failures will stop it from spreading. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced that his government-run grocery stores will offer products at a 30% discount. The appeal of this plan is obvious. Everyone would like to pay less for milk, eggs and meat. That this plan won’t work is equally obvious to anyone who understands basic economics. Unfortunately, that excludes many New Yorkers and college graduates. Take a look at the details of Mamdani’s plan. He doesn’t want the city to run these stores. He’s seeking proposals from “qualified grocers or firms to serve as operators” of the stores. “The City sets the mission, the standards and the store design; experienced third-party operators run the stores day to day under those requirements,” a release from Mamdani’s office states. Further, “operators will be required to provide family-sustaining wages and benefits and commit to a Labor Peace Agreement so that workers who want to organize can do so without interference.” That Mamdani doesn’t trust NYC’s bureaucracy to run his grocery stores is smart, but it also shows why the government shouldn’t run grocery stores. Mamdani may want to seize the means of production, but he appears to recognize that government doesn’t do a great job of producing. His premise is also absurd. Most
grocery stores have profit margins of 1% to 3%. Mamdani wants an operator to run his stores with 30% discounts on major items and to allow a union to inflate worker pay. Maybe Mamdani can hire fairies to stock the shelves with products delivered by unicorns. But Mamdani doesn’t expect these operators to lower prices by 30%. The city’s request for proposals states the city “will provide financial support to the Operator(s) to mitigate operating deficits attributable to discounted Core Basket sales and enable cost-effective program delivery.” This subsidy would be in addition to NYC taxpayers paying $70 million to build five stores and then cover their rent and property taxes. Mamdani’s grocery store scheme won’t prove the superiority of socialism because he’s not even trying to lower costs. He’s content to disguise them with crony capitalism. It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back. If the grocery stores are “successful,” they’ll drive nearby privately run stores out of business, which will erode the tax base. That will require more government-subsidized grocery stores, driving more grocery stores out of business and further reducing tax revenues. This spiral will continue until New Yorkers come to their electoral senses or run out of toilet paper — proof a
country has fully implemented socialism. These are important arguments to make. But they aren’t enough. Mamdani gives his followers specifics that create a clear narrative. According to him, the problem is high prices — the villains are rich people, and the solution is government-run grocery stores. Now, Mamdani is wrong — very wrong — on the details. But conservatives need to imitate his model. For instance, electricity prices are too high — the villain is the left’s push for expensive and unreliable green energy, and the solution is ending federal subsidies for wind and solar. States also need to repeal their renewable portfolio standards. Car prices are too high — the villain is anti-fossil fuel regulations pushed by Democrats, and the solution is requiring Congress to authorize any restrictions on gas-powered vehicles. Now one challenge for conservatives is that real solutions can take years to work, while socialists promise quick fixes and gimmicks. But by identifying the root cause of a problem, conservatives make a much stronger argument. It isn’t enough to point out the many problems with socialist proposals. Conservatives also need to provide villains and solutions. Victor Joecks is a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI
Fauci’s cowardly Fifth Amendment evasion
The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive.
THERE’S NOTHING inherently wrong with invoking the Fifth Amendment. The perception that anyone who pleads the Fifth to protect themselves from self-incrimination is only hiding guilt is wrong. Innocent people are often intimidated or tricked by those in power into implicating themselves. Others might get nervous under oath and worry about misspeaking under pressure. Former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Anthony Fauci, who appeared before the Senate committee investigating the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is not one of those people. There is some legal question as to whether a person who has received a pardon loses his ability to plead the Fifth since the assertion is predicated on shielding them from future crimes, like lying to Congress. Fauci, after all, could admit to personally creating COVID-19 in a lab and then spreading it himself, and there is still nothing the government could do to him. Former President Joe Biden gave him an unprecedented pardon for any federal offenses related to any pandemic-era actions between Jan. 1, 2014, and Jan. 19, 2025. The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive. It’s difficult to imagine anything that could incentivize criminality and abuse of power with the government more than knowing a president will give you a get-out-of-jail-free card at the end of a term. The entire point of the hearings, Fauci
contends, is to trap him. Fauci says Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), who released a cache of diary entries and emails earlier this week, says he is obsessed with prosecuting him, evident by his “repeated slanderous comments” and release of unredacted personal documents, which were aimed at “embarrassing and intimidation.” Perhaps. But Fauci, who was employed by the federal government for 54 years, director of the NIAID for 38, has likely delivered thousands of speeches and appeared in front of Congress somewhere around 250 times. If he can’t offer clear and honest testimony under oath, who can? The fact is that being truthful under oath would mean explaining several things: Why, though Fauci knew COVID-19’s fatality rate was likely at 0.2%-0.3% and “acting like a bad influenza,” he told Congress that it was “10 times more lethal than the seasonal flu.” Why, after privately expressing frustration regarding the efficacy of lockdowns in flattening the curve, Fauci not only advocated closing businesses and schools nationally but framed anyone who was skeptical as villains. Why Fauci publicly contended that he had absolutely nothing to do with school closings yet privately took credit for frightening the mayor of New York, the governor of California and others into shutting down their states. Why Fauci privately acknowledged that the wet market in Wuhan “was not the source” of the virus but the “amplifier”
and yet continued contending, with great scientific certitude, that the virus jumping from bats to humans was “absolutely totally compatible” with the available evidence, but the theory of the virus being created in the Wuhan Institute of Virology was a “very, very, very, very remote possibility.” Committee Democrats, incidentally, declined to rebut any Republican criticisms aimed at Fauci or speak on any of the problems of the pandemic response. Many of these Democrats had not treated Fauci’s word as indisputable truth and smeared anyone who questioned his authoritarian remedies as if they were members of a death cult. Instead, Democrats used their time to highlight the spread of measles cases under anti-vaccine activist and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. It’s an important topic. The problem, though, is that Fauci and other public health officials who lied and manipulated the public under the banner of “science” have a lot to do with the collapse of trust in the institutions that help fight measles outbreaks. Failing to get any accountability or full transparency from those who botched the COVID pandemic response only fuels more suspicion and skepticism about vaccines. And, make no mistake, avoiding accountability and transparency are the real reasons Fauci took the Fifth. David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 5, 2026
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President Donald Trump holds up the Ratepayer Protection Pledge after signing it March 4 at the White House.
Stein, Jackson plan to hold Duke Energy ‘accountable’ in data center pledge More than 200 organizations have signed the Ratepayer Protection Pledge By Jessica Taylor For Stanly News Journal RALEIGH — Gov. Josh Stein and Attorney General Jeff Jackson urged Duke Energy to create a legally binding contract to abide by the promises it has made after joining the federal administration’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge. “Duke just promised the federal government that it won’t shift the cost of data centers onto families,” said Jackson in the press release. “We agree, but a promise in Washington doesn’t lower a power bill in North Carolina. We’re calling on Duke to make that same promise to the Utilities Commission, in writing, where it can be enforced.” “I am pleased to see that Duke Energy has signed on to the Ratepayer Protection Pledge,” added Stein. “Now, Duke Energy must make that voluntary pledge real. “The North Carolina Utilities Commission and Duke Energy must create a legally binding large load tariff to charge data centers their full freight, and they must establish a program that allows data centers to directly select and pay for their generation,” said Stein. “North Carolinians are struggling to make ends meet, and data centers must pay their own way to protect families from rising electricity costs.” Duke Energy is the largest investor-owned electric utility in North Carolina, serving about 8.7 million electric customers and 1.6 million natural gas customers. Last week, Duke Energy Carolinas, the Utilities Commission’s Public Staff and others reached a settlement to establish large load tariffs and new rules for data centers,
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city select the strongest candidate for a board that makes an annual distribution to the city, preferring that councilmembers ask questions before deciding among the three applicants. “We have to make sure that we have some candidates that can really front some numbers,” Townsend added, noting that the ABC Board had lost valuable financial expertise. Aldridge opposed singling out the ABC Board for interviews when the council does not typically interview applicants for other boards. “We’ve had these names
according to the press release. Jackson will participate in the process and has urged the Utilities Commission to create a separate rate class for data centers and large energy users. The attorney general has further asked Duke to make realistic projections about data center growth and ensure that Duke will propose rules to have large companies bear the cost of infrastructure upgrades. Duke is additionally being urged to work with the Utilities Commission to establish its own means of generating power, given that its contracts are confidential. Earlier this month, Duke Energy lowered its proposed rate increase for residential customers, which received pushback from Jackson and consumers. The increase was lowered from 18% to 11.6%. The Ratepayer Protection Pledge was issued March 4 to ensure the growth of data centers does not increase electricity costs for American households and ratepayers. It asks that large energy users, such as data centers, generate and pay for their own power. Leading U.S. hyperscalers, including Amazon, Google, Meta, OpenAI and xAI, have signed on to the pledge. The pledge drives home five points: that companies will build, bring or buy new power supply and pay the full cost; pay for new power delivery infrastructure upgrades; pay whether or not they use the power; invest in local commu-
nities where they build data centers; and coordinate with grid operators to contribute to a more reliable grid. Several companies across Michigan, Indiana, Georgia, Mississippi, Iowa, Louisiana and Texas have reached agreements that project billions in customer savings over the years or ensure that companies cover 100% of costs. “Big tech companies are committing to fully cover the cost of increased electricity production required for AI data centers, and that would be prices for American communities will not go up, but in many cases will actually come down,” said President Donald Trump during a roundtable about the pledge. Alongside corporations, 23 Republican governors announced their support for the pledge and signed it. When asked why Stein did not follow suit, senior press secretary Onotse Omoyeni explained that Stein’s office “did not receive outreach from the administration about signing this pledge.” Omoyeni emphasized that “the pledge aligns closely with the recommendations of the Governor’s Energy Policy Task Force” and that “Governor Stein believes data centers need to pay their way so that North Carolina residents don’t bear the costs of their massive energy consumption.” The Energy Policy Task Force is a bipartisan group established by Stein in August 2025. The task force recommends developing options for large load tariffs, facilities bringing in their own local power resources and load flexibility programs to keep ratepayers from paying infrastructure expansion costs. Omoyeni added that when Stein signed the state budget, it eliminated the sales and use tax exemption for data centers’ electricity use. She also stated that Stein supports phasing out the exemption in place for equipment purchases.
for quite a while now, and we also encouraged people in the community to get involved,” Aldridge said. “My motion is based on the fact that we have three very qualified candidates.” He questioned whether the council would begin interviewing applicants for the Historic Resources Commission or Parks and Recreation Board, for example, if the change set a new precedent. The substitute motion failed 4-3 as Councilmembers Aldridge, David Hunt, Chris Bramlett and Benton Dry voted against it; Mayor Pro Tem Martha Sue Hall joined Councilmembers Townsend Mar-
tha and Hughes in voting aye. The original motion to appoint Poplin then passed 4-3 along the same voting lines. In a July 20 letter, Albemarle ABC Board General Manager Cathryn Clayton and the board’s members had recommended Williams for the vacancy. They cited his education career, civic involvement and previous service as an ABC Board clerk, saying the experience gave him knowledge of store operations and board governance. The Albemarle City Council will hold its next regular meeting on Aug. 17 at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers.
“North Carolinians are struggling to make ends meet, and data centers must pay their own way to protect families from rising electricity costs.” Gov. Josh Stein
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Jackson joins lawsuit against DHS, FEMA over funding threat States must comply with federal election rules to receive counterterrorism funding
“The last time they tried this, we took them to court and won. … I expect we’ll beat them — again.”
By Jessica Taylor For Stanly News Journal RALEIGH — Last week, Attorney General Jeff Jackson joined a multistate lawsuit against the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security for alleged threats to withhold 20% of state counterterrorism funding. According to grant requirements issued by FEMA, states must provide proof of compliance with federal election rules to receive full funding. “FEMA is threatening our counterterrorism funding again,” said Jackson in a press release. “The last time they tried this, we took them to court and won. Now they’re trying again, and I expect we’ll beat them — again. “Hopefully they get the message: Don’t threaten our first responders unless you’re ready for a fight.” North Carolina received more than $17 million through counterterrorism and emergen-
Jeff Jackson, North Carolina attorney general
COURTESY @NCAGO / X
North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson, pictured last month, joined several states in a lawsuit against FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security. cy preparedness programs last year. The money funds bomb squad equipment, active shooter exercises, cyberattack resistance, hurricane and natural disaster response, flood risk mitigation, wildfire management and search-and-rescue operations. The election security compliance mandates include:
• States must submit plans to use equipment that accepts hand-marked paper ballots rather than electronic systems using barcodes and QR codes. • Jurisdictions must conduct a manual audit of at least 5% of all cast ballots after every federal election. • States must use the federal Systematic Alien Verification
for Entitlements (SAVE) database to verify the citizenship of every voter and remove verified noncitizens. • States must use the SAVE database to verify the citizenship of individuals working at polling places or operating election systems. • Jurisdictions must match the number of participating voters with the total number of ballots counted. At the center of the issue is DHS needing to verify proof of compliance with the rules. If DHS fails to do so, FEMA will withhold 20% of a recipient’s total Homeland Security Grant Program funding. Additionally, DHS has a condition allowing the cancellation or withdrawal of grants if projects do not align with federal priorities. According to the press release, the requirements for ad-
A5 ministering elections would interfere with the authority of the North Carolina State Board of Elections and county boards. The mandates would also require voting equipment in 13 rural North Carolina counties to be replaced after they had been certified by the state board. Jackson argues that the federal government could pull money during a response, which would hinder states’ planning public safety operations. He additionally stated that FEMA has no authority over elections, and that FEMA and DHS are violating the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) and the Spending Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The APA regulates how U.S. government agencies make regulations, handle legal disputes and listen to public feedback. The Spending Clause gives Congress the power to collect taxes and spend money to pay debt, defend the country and provide for general welfare. Previously, FEMA and DHS were sued in November 2025 and December 2025 by a coalition of states over withheld emergency management, public safety and climate resiliency grants. More than $17 million for North Carolina was withheld, and the court ordered FEMA to reinstate $200 million in canceled climate resiliency grants for North Carolina. The court rejected the conditions DHS and FEMA put on the funds, stating they were not “consistent with Congressional intent or FEMA’s mission.”
FBI investigates as Ethics panel recommends states report water House censure for NC’s Edwards over conduct with aides systems cyberattacks The committee said his pattern of intimate attention resembled thinly veiled advances By Kevin Freking The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House Ethics Committee recommended Monday that Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) be censured after finding that he engaged in persistent unprofessional and inappropriate conduct toward two young female aides in his congressional office. A censure registers the House’s deep disapproval of a lawmaker’s conduct that does not meet the threshold for expulsion. Edwards has denied that any of his conduct was intended as a sexual or romantic advance, but the committee said his behavior would “lead a reasonable observer to interpret it as such.” It also described his actions as “beyond inappropriate.” The panel highlighted numerous examples of actions it considered improper, including Edwards providing the young women with lavish and recurrent gifts, making comments regarding their appearance and dress, inviting them to intimate dinners and vacations, and sending notes regarding his affection. Report found Edwards made aides “uncomfortable” The Ethics panel found no evidence Edwards explicitly propositioned any person under his employ or engaged in any sexual activity with them. But it also said he failed to adhere to “the spirit of rules prohibiting sexual harassment of and unwanted advances to House staffers.” “Both women were uncomfortable with his behavior (which they attempted to communicate) but were put in an untenable position by virtue of his status as their boss and a Member of Congress,” the Ethics Committee said in its 25-page report. “Representative Edwards was at minimum blind to that reality, and at worst, dismissive of the impact his inappropriate conduct had on the careers and well-being of two women on his staff.” In a 15-page response to the
NELL REDMOND / AP PHOTO
“Representative Edwards was at minimum blind to that reality, and at worst, dismissive of the impact his inappropriate conduct had on the careers and well-being of two women on his staff.”
Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.)
House Ethics Committee
report, Edwards’ attorneys argued that the committee’s findings “exonerate” the congressman, pointing to the conclusion that he did not engage in sexual activity or explicitly proposition any staff member. His attorneys said the recommendation of censure was an “extraordinarily harsh and infrequent punishment” that is based on vague standards and adherence to the spirit of House rules, “not based on a direct violation of House rules addressing sexual misconduct.” Paul Shumaker, a spokesperson and strategist for Edwards’ reelection campaign, said the Ethics Committee’s staff took it upon themselves to write rules inconsistent with the written rule of law or House rules. “Representative Edwards looks forward to having his name cleared and will work to ensure that the full light of day is brought on this process and that every member of Congress and the public can see the attempt to harm the Congressman who has brought no harm to others,” Shumaker said in a written statement. House members are prohibited from engaging in sexual harassment or making unwanted advances toward their subordinates.
mack (R-Fla.) and Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) to lead a bipartisan effort to combat sexual misconduct in Congress. Their work is focused on making Capitol Hill a safer job environment for women. The Ethics panel said Edwards cooperated with the investigation and acknowledged to them that at least some of the behavior at issue could be viewed as inappropriate. However, he has not acknowledged or taken responsibility for the harm he caused, the committee said. In his interview with the committee, the panel said Edwards repeatedly asserted that he knows well what constitutes “sexual harassment,” and seemed to believe he had immunized himself from such a charge by avoiding inappropriate touching and sexual comments and occasionally telling the staffers that they were free to put up boundaries. “Despite the absence of an explicit proposition, a reasonable person could interpret Representative Edwards’ intimate and effusive attentions, where he prioritized the personal over the professional, as thinly veiled advances,” the committee wrote.
House rules in place to protect staff The Edwards investigation came at a time of heightened scrutiny of lawmakers’ behavior toward female staffers following the resignations of Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell and Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales. Both were facing calls for their expulsion before they stepped down earlier this year. In May, House leadership designated Reps. Kat Cam-
House would have to approve Edwards’ censure The full House will have to vote before any censure would occur. Traditionally, a lawmaker who is censured must stand in the well of the House while the speaker or presiding officer reads the censure resolution as a form of public rebuke. Lawmakers are back in their home districts for almost the rest of the month, so a vote on whether to censure Edwards won’t occur for a few weeks at the earliest.
The attacks come amid federal warnings about Iranian hackers targeting water systems By Michael Casey The Associated Press MICHIGAN on Saturday joined Minnesota in reporting cyberattacks on nine of the state’s water systems, but an official said all systems were operating “safely.” Earlier this week, authorities said cyberattacks targeted more than 30 water systems in Minnesota. The source of the attacks is being investigated, but they came amid warnings that Iranian hackers have been focused on such systems. The reports in Michigan surfaced after the state received a federal cyber alert Tuesday about attempts to tamper with operational technology at water systems. Soon after, the state received “a small number of reports from Michigan communities indicating activity consistent with what federal agencies described,” said Dale George, the director of communications at the state’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. He later said nine systems were impacted. “All systems continued to operate safely, issues were addressed by local operators, and there are no known impacts that posed a public health concern,” George said in a statement. The FBI, which is investigating, has not publicly identified a culprit, and a spokesperson declined to say last Thursday who the bureau thought might be responsible. The FBI, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and other agencies warned in an advisory last week that Iranian hackers have been targeting water and wastewater systems and the operational controls of other critical infrastructure sectors. “The FBI is aware of recent public reporting around Water and Wastewater (WWS) sectors,” the agency said in a statement Saturday. “The FBI and our interagency partners are fully engaged to protect critical infrastructure and we
remain well-equipped to protect against cyber threats of all varieties.” Digital warfare has become ingrained in military conflict, and local water plants or healthcare facilities often lack the funds and know-how to install the latest software patches or take other security steps. That has made them a favorite target, both because of the relative ease of penetrating them and because of the panic such disruptions can cause. Iran’s interest in the operations of water systems inside the U.S. dates back years. In 2016, the Justice Department charged a group of Iranian hackers in connection with a cyberattack targeting a small dam near New York City. Minnesota IT Services said that as of last Thursday, there were no active requests from Minnesota communities for residents to modify usage of their drinking water. The state agency said most of the confirmed attacks involved technology that water systems use to remotely monitor and control equipment. It said that being impacted meant investigators confirmed there was malicious activity involving the system’s technology and didn’t mean every impacted community had their water service disrupted. For a few hours Monday, the city of Braham asked residents to minimize water use as it tried to determine why the water plant was offline. The city of about 1,700 people, located about 70 miles north of Minneapolis, said in a news release that the water plant outage was due to a cyberattack, but it didn’t cause any issue with water quality. The city said the attackers shut down the operating controls that shut down the well and water treatment plant. That left the city for a time only able to provide residents with the water held in the water tower. In Plymouth, a city of about 80,000 located outside of Minneapolis, officials said on social media that their water infrastructure communications had been restored by Tuesday afternoon following a cyberattack.
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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 5, 2026
OBITUARIES
Christina Barbee Huneycutt July 30, 2026 Mrs. Christina Barbee Huneycutt, following a recent illness, passed away on Thursday, July 30, 2026, in Monroe, NC. A native of Stanly County, NC, she was the daughter of Grover and Estelle Barbee who preceded her in death. Mrs. Huneycutt was a 1965 graduate of West Stanly High School. In the Winter of 1968 at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, she wed Ronald James Huneycutt (also a Stanly County native who preceded her in death) with whom she shared her life for 53 years. Mrs. Huneycutt spent years of her professional life assisting the residents of Stanly County at Albemarle’s “tag office.” Grocery shopping was an extended endeavor because she would often be stopped to answer questions, to which she always responded. Later in her career, she served as office administrator at the dental office of Dr. Bill Hatley, Jr., from
where she retired to spend more time with her husband. She was an engaged member of the Republican Party and assisted with local level campaigns. Mrs. Huneycutt enjoyed life’s simple pleasures: working outside with her plants and flowers, riding the golf cart to visit the farm, frequenting Southport, NC with her husband, making the absolute best coconut cake, and spending time with family and friends. Mrs. Huneycutt is survived by daughter, Amee H. Odom of Wingate, NC; brother, Hilton Barbee, of Oakboro, NC; niece, Kristie B. Nixon (Derrick), of Summerville, SC; greatniece, Danielle A. Huber (Zac Ezzell), of Goldsboro, NC, and family friends Rita Cook of Albemarle, NC and Todd Holt of Albemarle, NC. Mrs. Huneycutt will lie-inrepose from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Friday, August 7, 2026, at Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle. The graveside service, officiated by Mr. Kevin Winchester, MFA, and the Reverend Dr. Shad Hicks will be Saturday, August 8, 2026, at 10:00 am at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery at 17236 Frog Pond Road, Oakboro. In lieu of flowers, memorials should be directed to: Pleasant Grove Baptist Church (17236 Frog Pond Road, Oakboro, NC 28129) or the Union County Library Foundation (316 East Windsor Street, Monroe, NC 28112). Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the Huneycutt family. Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Stanly News Journal at obits@stanlynewsjournal.com
IN MEMORY
CHRISTINA BARBEE HUNEYCUTT DEC. 13, 1946 – JULY 30, 2026 Mrs. Christina Barbee Huneycutt, following a recent illness, passed away on Thursday, July 30, 2026, in Monroe, NC. A native of Stanly County, NC, she was the daughter of Grover and Estelle Barbee, who preceded her in death. Mrs. Huneycutt was a 1965 graduate of West Stanly High School. In the Winter of 1968 at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, she wed Ronald James Huneycutt (also a Stanly County native who preceded her in death), with whom she shared her life for 53 years. Mrs. Huneycutt spent years of her professional life assisting the residents of Stanly County at Albemarle’s “tag office.” Grocery shopping was an extended endeavor because she would often be stopped to answer questions, to which she always responded. Later in her career, she served as office administrator at the dental office of Dr. Bill Hatley, Jr., from where she retired to spend more time with her husband. She was an engaged member of the Republican Party and assisted with local-level campaigns. Mrs. Huneycutt enjoyed life’s simple pleasures: working outside with her plants and flowers, riding the golf cart to visit the farm, frequenting Southport, NC with her husband, making the absolute best coconut cake, and spending time with family and friends. Mrs. Huneycutt is survived by: daughter, Amee H. Odom of Wingate, NC; brother, Hilton Barbee, of Oakboro, NC; niece, Kristie B. Nixon (Derrick), of Summerville, SC; great-niece, Danielle A. Huber (Zac Ezzell), of Goldsboro, NC, and family friends Rita Cook of Albemarle, NC and Todd Holt of Albemarle, NC. Mrs. Huneycutt will lie-in-repose from 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm, Friday, August 7, 2026 at Hartsell Funeral Home of Albemarle. The graveside service, officiated by Mr. Kevin Winchester, MFA, and the Reverend Dr. Shad Hicks, will be Saturday, August 8, 2026 at 10:00 am at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church Cemetery at 17236 Frog Pond Road, Oakboro. In lieu of flowers, memorials should be directed to: Pleasant Grove Baptist Church (17236 Frog Pond Road, Oakboro, NC 28129) or the Union County Library Foundation (316 East Windsor Street, Monroe, NC 28112).
CHANG VANG JAN. 11, 1986 – JULY 30, 2026 It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of our beloved brother, Chang Vang, on July 30, 2026. Born on January 11, 1986, Chang was not only a brother but our greatest supporter and confidant. Growing up, we shared countless adventures, from going fishing to watching his favorite sports team, the Green Bay Packers. Chang had an infectious laugh and a heart of gold, always ready to lend a hand. His presence in our life was a gift, and his memory will continue to guide us. He is survived by our mother, Pa Vue Vang; 2 brothers, Kou Vang and Poan Hue Vang; and 4 sisters, Yua Mai Xiong, Michelle Vang, Lisa Vang, and Amy Vang; and nieces and nephews. Chang Vang will be dearly missed by all who knew him.
BRENDA MARIE MCLENDON NOV. 11, 1949 – JULY 31, 2026 Brenda Marie McLendon, 76, of Albemarle, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Trinity Place. Her funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, in the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Monty Clark officiating. Burial will follow at Union Chapel Methodist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 11:00 a.m., prior to the service, at Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle. Born November 11, 1949, in Stanly County, North Carolina, Brenda was the daughter of the late Charles Cyril McLendon and Helen Kirk McLendon. She was a faithful member of Union Chapel Methodist Church and retired after many years of dedicated service with Stanly Regional Medical Center. Brenda will be remembered for her joyful spirit, warm heart, and genuine love for others. She never met a stranger and had a remarkable gift for making everyone she encountered feel like a friend. Her infectious smile, outgoing personality, and caring nature left a lasting impression on all who knew her. Although she was private about her faith, she lived it steadfastly each day through her kindness, generosity, and compassion for others. She found great happiness in shopping, spending time at the beach, and, most of all, showering her nieces and nephews with love and generosity. One of the many ways she quietly honored those she loved was by devotedly placing flowers on the graves of her family members, a simple but meaningful expression of her enduring love and devotion. She is survived by her brother, Sid McLendon and wife, Karen, of Albemarle; her sister-in-law, Patricia McLendon of Albemarle; four nephews, Charles C. McLendon III (Pam) of Salisbury, Kent McLendon (Meggan) of Stanfield, Brian McLendon (Kristin) of Albemarle, and David McLendon (Anne) of Albemarle; her niece, Kelly Jaquish (Justin) of Midland; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews, all of whom she loved dearly. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by a brother, Charles Cyril McLendon, Jr. Brenda’s legacy is one of kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family and friends. She will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who were blessed to know her.
Arlene Smith, lead singer of pioneering ’50s girl group the Chantels, dead at 84 She proved girls could do what guys did and opened doors for everyone else By Hillel Italie The Associated Press NEW YORK — Arlene Smith, one of the first “girl group” stars, who as a teenager and a founder of the Chantels co-wrote and sang lead on the 1950s doo-wop classic “Maybe,” has died at 84. Smith’s manager and close friend, Paul Errante, told The Associated Press that she died of a heart attack Wednesday at a New York City hospital. Male harmony groups from the Drifters to Dion and the Belmonts were common in the early years of rock ’n’ roll. But female acts — especially black female acts — were rare until the late 1950s, when performers such as the Chantels and the Bobbettes broke through and helped make possible a wave of girl groups in the next decade, including the Shirelles, the Ronettes and the Crystals. “My thing was, ‘The guys are
not the only ones that can do this,’” Smith told the authors of the 2023 oral history “But Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” “Maybe,” recorded in a makeshift studio in a Manhattan church, was a spare, pleading ballad that Smith sang with weary force, in part because the group had to run through it more than 50 times. The 1958 release was a Top 20 hit that eventually sold more than 1 million copies and was covered by Janis Joplin and the Three Degrees, among others. Smith and the Chantels were voted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2002, a year before Rolling Stone ranked “Maybe” at No. 199 on the magazine’s list of the 500 best songs. “The Chantels forced listeners to reconsider doo-wop as something more than a man’s domain, and the reality of a girl group holding forth on guys’ turf laid out cultural possibilities in an entirely new way,” NPR music critic Tim Riley wrote in his book “Fever,” published in 2004. “With ‘Maybe,’ Arlene Smith infused her vocal with so much determined na-
iveté that she transformed all the anxiety of a doomed relationship into a fervent wish for its revival.” The Chantels had a handful of other hits, including “Every Night (I Pray)” and “Look In My Eyes,” but never matched the success of “Maybe.” Smith left the group in 1959, around the time their record label went bankrupt, and she worked briefly with producer Phil Spector, recording the single “Love, Love, Love.” But her career soon faded and, by the 1970s, estranged from the other original Chantels, she was touring with a new lineup of backing singers. Smith eventually received a master’s degree in education and taught music to elementary school students in New York City before retiring in the 2000s. She never married or had children, Errante said. The Chantels ahead of their time The Chantels were pioneers sometimes trapped in the conventions of the era. Smith’s name was initially left out of
the credits to “Maybe,” a theft of copyright common in the music industry in the ’50s. The cover of their first album, “We Are the Chantels,” originally featured a group photograph but was changed to show an image of two young white people leaning over a jukebox. “Things were going on in the country,” Smith told The New York Times in 1995. “There was a lot to transcend.” In “But Will You Love Me Tomorrow?” Smith said she never wanted to sing “girl songs” and instead was drawn to male groups whose “harmonies were so rich and full.” She was in high school when “Maybe” came out, but had been performing for years, influenced by Etta James, among others. As a girl, Smith attended the St. Anthony of Padua School in New York’s Bronx borough and began singing with fellow choir members Sonia Goring, Renée Minus, Jackie Landry and Lois Harris in the early 1950s, when all were in their early teens or younger. They named themselves after a nearby school and basketball rival, St. Frances de
Chantal, and honed an intricate singing style in part by mastering Gregorian chants. “We navigated toward each other. We used to sit in choir practice and make up parts,” Smith told the publication Catholic New York in 2019, around the time they were honored with a Bronx street sign that read, “The Chantels — Hit Record ‘Maybe’ 1958.” The Chantels sang at various local talent shows and broke through professionally in 1957, when Richard Barrett, producer and leader of the male harmony group the Valentines, recommended them to End Records owner George Goldner. Their debut single, “He’s Gone,” came out that summer. “Maybe” — widely believed to have been written by Barrett and Smith — was released months later and helped lead to the group’s touring with everyone from Chuck Berry to Ike and Tina Turner. “It was fun,” Smith later told ClassicBands.com. “You just take your books, get ’em packed. You don’t have a thing to do all day. You sit next to your buddy on the bus, read, crochet, do your homework, look out at scenery, sleep, eat. C’mon, it was wonderful! I didn’t have a thought or care in the world. It was really a nice time in my life, because I was doing exactly what I wanted to do.”
STANLY SPORTS
JEFF DEAN / AP PHOTO
Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill looks on during a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Oct. 16, 2025, in Cincinnati, Ohio.
Hill opens training camp with Bengals on PUP list The former West Stanly Colt is preparing for his ninth NFL season By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — Former West Stanly standout B.J. Hill has spent the opening stretch of Cincinnati Bengals training camp sidelined while recovering from an undisclosed injury. Cincinnati placed the 31-year-old defensive tackle on the active/physically unable
to perform (PUP) list July 25, four days before the team’s first training camp practice. Players on the active/PUP list may attend meetings and use team facilities but cannot practice until cleared by the club’s medical staff. Hill can be activated at any point during the preseason. While the Bengals did not identify the injury in their roster announcement, Hill dealt with a foot injury last season and underwent a procedure during the offseason, according to team officials. On July 27, Bengals coach
“He’s doing as well as we had hoped, and we’ll just continue to take it day to day with him.” Zac Taylor, Cincinnati Bengals coach Zac Taylor offered an encouraging update, saying he did not expect Hill to remain sidelined for all of training camp. “He’s doing as well as we had hoped, and we’ll just continue
to take it day-to-day with him,” Taylor said. Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin also said Hill was “getting very close” to returning but that the team planned to remain cautious as he continued his recovery. Hill, an Oakboro native, has become a fixture on Cincinnati’s defensive front since the Bengals acquired him from the New York Giants before the 2021 season. As a team captain, the 6-foot-3, 311-pound lineman started all 17 games in 2025 and finished with 66 tackles, four sacks and five tackles for loss. His tackle total ranked sixth on the team, while his four sacks were third. In five seasons with Cincinnati, Hill has appeared in 81 games, making 67 starts. He has recorded 291 tackles and 20 sacks during that span. The Bengals signed Hill to a
Pfeiffer hires Oxendine as tennis coach The new Falcons coach will begin his duties Aug. 17 By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal MISENHEIMER — Pfeiffer University announced Monday that Chad Oxendine has been hired to lead its men’s and women’s tennis programs. Oxendine, a Rose Hill native with more than three decades of coaching, player development and tennis industry experience, will begin his duties Aug. 17. “I am excited about coming to Pfeiffer University and plan to build on the successful tradition of Pfeiffer tennis,” Oxendine said in a university news release. “I am so thankful to the Pfeiffer leadership team for this great opportunity to lead our men and women to success on the courts.” Oxendine arrives in Misenheimer after serving as a tennis coach at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, since 2022. At the academy, he worked with athletes pursuing opportunities in college and professional tennis. “Chad’s experience developing players at every level of the game, combined with his passion for mentoring young peo-
three-year contract in March 2025 that keeps him under contract through the 2027 season. Cincinnati enters camp with greater depth at defensive tackle after acquiring three-time Pro Bowl selection Dexter Lawrence II from the Giants during the offseason. Lawrence and Hill played together in New York during the 2019 and 2020 seasons. The Bengals hope the reunited veterans can anchor an improved interior defensive line once Hill returns. In the meantime, his absence should provide more practice opportunities for Cincinnati’s younger defensive tackles and players competing for roster spots. Cincinnati’s public training camp schedule continues through Aug. 16. The Bengals are set to open their preseason schedule against the Detroit Lions at Paycor Stadium on Aug. 13.
“I am so thankful to the Pfeiffer leadership team for this great opportunity to lead our men and women to success on the courts.” Chad Oxendine
COURTESY PFEIFFER ATHLETICS
Chad Oxendine is the new coach of the Pfeiffer men’s and women’s tennis programs. ple, makes him an outstanding fit for Pfeiffer University,” interim athletic director Jeff Childress said. “His reputation throughout North Carolina and the national tennis community speaks for itself, and we are excited about the future of our men’s and women’s tennis programs under his leadership.” Before joining IMG Acade-
my, Oxendine spent 20 years as the owner of AMPTENNIS in Concord. Through a partnership with Concord Parks and Recreation, he directed youth and adult tennis programs, oversaw academy training and organized USTA-sanctioned tournaments. The programs served hundreds of players each year and
created playing opportunities for athletes of varying ages and skill levels. Oxendine also brings collegiate playing experience to Pfeiffer. He competed at Pembroke State University before transferring to UNC Wilmington, where he later graduated. During the 1994-95 season, he played at the No. 1 singles
and doubles positions for the Seahawks. At Pfeiffer, Oxendine will oversee recruiting, player development, practice planning, scheduling and in-match coaching for both programs. He succeeds Justin Fainter, whose resignation became effective July 31 after becoming the winningest coaching tenure in program history. Fainter finished with a combined record of 208-89, a .700 winning percentage, including a 98-48 mark with the men and a 110-41 record with the women. Fainter was named head coach in 2020, returning to Misenheimer after a five-year break from his Falcons stint. Both teams remained competitive in Fainter’s final season. The men finished 15-4 overall and 4-1 in USA South play, with four players earning all-conference honors. The women posted a 13-5 overall record and went 3-2 in conference competition.
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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 5, 2026
NCHSAA selects next commissioner The transition for the governing body will take place across a couple of months
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Stanly News Journal staff CHAPEL HILL — Brad Alford will be the next commissioner of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association, replacing retiring Que Tucker on Oct. 1. Alford is Director of the Office of Athletics for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, where he oversees statewide governance and administration of interscholastic athletics for North Carolina’s public schools. He also serves as the state superintendent’s designee for interscholastic athletics and represents NCDPI on the NCHSAA board of directors. Beginning as an intern in 2010, Alford spent nearly 15 years in various roles with the NCHSAA. Alford will be part of a transition period beginning Aug. 24, working alongside Tucker. He’ll be the association’s eighth commissioner for an organization that is more than
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Brad Alford 100 years old. Tucker has been commissioner since 2015. According to the NCHSAA, Alford helped oversee championship operations, sport administration, compliance, governance, and major statewide initiatives during his previous time with the association. He’s a Southern Durham High School graduate before earning an undergraduate degree from Mount Olive and master’s degree in sport management from East Carolina.
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SIDELINE REPORT NBA
Green agrees to 1-year, $27.7M contract to remain with Warriors San Francisco Draymond Green has reportedly agreed to a one-year, $27.7 million deal to return to the Golden State Warriors. Green will sign the deal that essentially matches the deal he opted out of last month before the Warriors made an unsuccessful bid to sign LeBron James. Green is now set to play his 15th season with the Warriors. If he plays in 51 games, he will join Stephen Curry as the only players in franchise history to appear in at least 1,000 contests.
NFL
Vikings suspend new DB coach Alexander for 3 weeks following drunken driving charge The Minnesota Vikings suspended defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander for three weeks without pay following a drunken driving charge in April. Alexander’s suspension will be in effect until Aug. 13, two days before their first preseason game. Alexander, a Carolina Panthers player in 2010, pled guilty July 16 to a gross misdemeanor charge of third-degree driving while impaired. He was arrested at about 4 a.m. after his vehicle was stopped in the middle of an intersection in a Minneapolis suburb. He was allegedly unresponsive and failed field sobriety tests.
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Kuwaki of Japan wins the Women’s British Open on second playoff hole Lytham St. Annes, England Shiho Kuwaki of Japan saved par to stay alive in a sudden-death playoff and then won with a par on the second extra hole to claim the Women’s British Open over Esther Henseleit of Germany for her first major title. Kuwaki closed with a 1-under 70 and looked like a winner in regulation until Henseleit holed a 40-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole at Royal Lytham & St. Annes for a 70 to join Kuwaki at 5-under 279.
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Stanly News Journal 704-982-2121
B3
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 5, 2026
Dodgers land Cy Young ace Skubal in deadline deal Los Angeles sent three prospects to Detroit By Josh Dubow The Associated Press SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired the biggest prize on the trade deadline market, getting two-time reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers. Skubal got the news during the game and was emotional after the game as he prepared to leave the team that drafted him in 2018 and developed him into a star to join the two-time defending World Series champions. “I’m excited to be a Dodger,” he said. “I’m excited to get down there and meet all those guys and chase three championships in a row. That’s hard to do, so I’m so excited to be a part of that. It’s a lot of different emotions. Definitely kind of a roller coaster a little bit.” Skubal is the latest star to join the high-priced roster for the Dodgers that already has big-name players like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Mookie Betts. The Dodgers are in first place in the NL West and were already the favorites to become the first team to three-peat since the New York Yankees from 1998-
2000 before adding Skubal. They began the season with a $323.3 million opening-day payroll for their 40-man roster and a $163.7 million tax for a $487.1 million total. They will pay Skubal about $9.5 million for the remainder of the season. The Tigers would receive three minor league prospects in right-handers River Ryan and Brady Smith and outfielder Zyhir Hope. Skubal is eligible for free agency after the World Series. He has a $32 million salary, a record total in arbitration and is expected to sign a massive contract in the offseason. The 29-year-old lefty said in July it was his preference to finish the season with the Tigers and to compete for a World Series. Skubal took the loss in the decisive Game 5 of the division series against Cleveland in 2024 and then got a no-decision in a 15-inning loss to Seattle in Game 5 of the division series last year. He said it was “very tough” to leave the Tigers having fallen short of the goal of winning a title. “Ever since that ’24 Game 5, the failure that I experienced on the mound, I’ve used that as fuel to try and bring a World Series to the city of Detroit. I truly did,” he said. “That whole offseason I’ve never been more motivated and then go in and
“I’m excited to get down there and meet all those guys and chase three championships in a row.” Tarik Skubal we lose Game 5 again. That failure kind of sparks some more motivation, just to dig deeper and see how good you can truly be. The goal was always to win a World Series for the city, for the organization that took a chance on me. It’s tough. I love all those guys in there. They’re some of my best friends.” The Tigers got off to a rough start and are currently 21⁄2 games out of the last wild-card spot in the American League. “It’s crazy. Going into the season, this isn’t what I planned on doing,” Skubal said. “But circumstances change, situations change, and I’m very appreciative of everything the Tigers have done for me.” “I’ve watched this guy rise to the top of the sport,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “He’s carried us a lot. I’ll forever be grateful that our paths crossed and the things that he did for this organization and for a couple of playoff teams. His presence, his work ethic, his example, his dominance. There’s so
PAUL SANCYA / AP PHOTO
Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal walks to the dugout after leaving his final start with the team before getting traded. much to go through, it’s hard to capture in one quote or kind of one setting. But I’m very grateful that I was able to manage him for the time that I did.” Skubal is 7-5 this season with a 2.79 ERA and 116 strikeouts in 962⁄3 innings. He is 6142 with a 3.04 ERA over seven seasons, all in Detroit. In two
postseasons, Skubal is 2-1 with a 2.04 ERA in six starts. Skubal had a minimally invasive surgery May 6 to remove a loose body from his pitching elbow and returned to pitch on June 13. “The way the surgery went is exactly how it was supposed to go,” he said in July. Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Tarik Skubal walks to the dugout after warming up Monday before a game against the Cubs in Chicago.
DAVID BANKS / AP PHOTO
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B4
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 5, 2026
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EDITION AWD 52K 1 OWNER 2023 CHEV EQUINOX LT 19K ALL WHEEL DIAMOND WHITE GRAY .................... 35,995 DRIVE 4CLY PRETTY JUST ..... $25,995 2024 HONDA ACCORD EX 4CLY GRAY 2022 FORD F150 CREW CAB 4X4 5.0 V8 FX4 MET 15K ONE OWNER ....... TOO LATE! PACKAGE WHITE SHARP ............... $35,995 2023 HONDA CRV EX DIAMOND 2022 HONDA CIVIC TOURING LEATHER WHITE 27K SUNROOF 4CLY CLEAN SUNROOF DIAMOND WHITE LOOK ... $25,995 ............................................ TOO LATE! 2021 JEEP GLADIATOR OVERLAND 4X4 37K 2023 NISSAN FRONTIER SV CREW 1 OWNER MED RED MET SHARP ..... $36,995 CAB 4X4 V6 WHITE 18K NICE 2021 HONDA ODYSSEY EXL 43K LEATHER .................................................. 35,995 SUNROOF NEW TIRES CLEAN ......... $33,995 2023 FORD BRONCO SPORT 4X4 2021 FORD BRONCO SPORT BADLANDS OUTER BANKS LEAHTER SILVER 1 4X4 WHITE NC ONE OWNER “8K”.... $31,995 OWN ................................... TOO LATE! 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA SR5 V6 WHITE 2021 JEEP GLADIATOR OVERLAND DOUBLE CAB 56K BLACK WHEELS ... $31,995 4X4 37K 1 OWNER MED RED MET 2021 TOYOTA RAV4 XLE 49K WHITE ..................................... “NOW” 32,995 LOCAL TAN INTERIOR NICE ............ $27,995 2022 HONDA ODYSSEY EXL V6 2021 JEEP CHEROKEE LATITUDE V6 LEATHER PRETTY BLUE NC LUX 1 OWNER NEW GRAY COLOR 15K SHARP ....... $25,995 ONLY......................................... 24,995 2021 NISSAN ALTIMA SREX WHITE 16K 3RD 2022 KIA SORENTO LEATHER 4CLY LOW MILES NICE ................. $24,995 SEAT WOLF GRAY LOW MILES “21K” 2021 SUBARU IMPREZA SPORT 29,995 .................................................. WAGON 4CLY ALL WHEEL DRIVE 2021 HONDA CIVIC SPORT TOURING 1 0WNER 23K ............................ $23,995 HATCHBACK SONIC GRAY PEARL 2020 HONDA CRV EXL DIAMOND WHITE ............................................ TOO LATE! LIGHT BEIGE INTERIOR “21K” ........ $29,995 2021 HONDA CRV EXL 67K MED 2019 SUBARU FORESTER LIMITED DIAMOND GRAY LEATHER SUNROOF VERY WHITE 59K 59K LEATHER .............. $25,995 CLEAN ...................................... 25,995 2019 BLAZER PREMIER V6 ALL WHEEL 2020CHEV FORD RANGER XLT CREW CAB DRIVE 62K SILVER LEATHER .......... $24,995 4X4 FX4 OFF RD PKG MED RED 22K 2019 FORD FUSION SE 4CLY 65K RUBY RED .................................................. 29,995 MET NICE AND SHARP ONLY .......... $18,995 2020 CHEVY SILVERADO CREW 2019 3 PREMIUM CABMAZDA Z71 4X4 LEATHERLEATHER 6.2 ENG 4X4 SUNROOF DIAMOND WHITE 43K “NOW” ................................... 36,995 JUST ....................................... $19,995 2020 NISSAN FRONTIER SV CREW 2019 TOYOTA CAMRY SE 4CLY POWER SEAT CAB 4X4 58K BLACK EDITION PRETTY BLUE SPORT WHEELS ....... $19,995 ............................................ TOO LATE! 2019 HONDA CIVIC LX WHITE 2019 CHEV COLORADO LT CREW CAB LOCAL 1 OWNER TRADE NEW TIRES V6 Z71 73K 4X4 “RED HOT” SHARP JUST ....................................... $12,995 ...................................................27,995 2018 FORD EXPLORER XLT V6 LEATHER 2018 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER SR5TOO LATE ! SILVER “LOW MILES 21K” ........ PREMIUM 4X4 SILVER 63K LEATHER 2018 HONDA CRV EXL LEATHER SUNROOF 3RD SEAT................................. 32,995 50K ALL WHEEL DRIVE TAN ........ TOO LATE! 2018 CHEV COLORADO LT CREW CAB 2018 HONDA CRV AWD TOURING DIAMOND Z71 4X4 LEATHER 80K PRETTY GRAY WHITE 84K LOCAL ONE OWNER ...... $22,995 .................................................. 25,995 2018 TOYOTA COROLLA LE WHITE 2019 CHEV BLAZER PREMIER V6 ALL “26K” GREAT GAS MILEAGE .......... $18,995 WHEEL DRIVE 62K SILVER LEATHER 2017 TOYOTA TACOMA DOUBLE CAB .................................................. 24,995 LIMITED 4X4 WHITE 70K ............... $34,995 2018 KIA SOUL 4CLY MED GRAY 92K 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER XLE LEATHER LOCAL TRADE “BEST BUY” ....10,995 SILVER 3RD SEAT 79K LOOK .......... $26,995 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER LIMITED 2016 FORD F150 CREW CAB XLT V6 BLACK BLIZZARD PEARL AWD V6 98K ALL POWER CHROME WHEELS ....... $21,995 .................................................. 24,995 2016 F150 TACOMA CREW CABDOUBLE XLT V6 RUBY 2017FORD TOYOTA CAB RED 112K 2 WHEEL DRIVE............. $19,995 TRD OFF RD PKG 4X4 V6 GRAY 2016 HONDA CRV TOURING TOO LATE! ............................................ WHITE DIAMOND 77K 2017 HONDA RIDGELINE RTL-T LEATHER SUNROOF..................... $19,995 WHITE DIAMOND 27K LOCAL 1 2016 HONDA ACCORD EX MED GRAY 4CLY OWNER..................................... 25,995 71K 1 OWNER HARD TO FIND ......... $18,995 2017 CHEV COLORADO Z71 2016 HONDA CRV SE AWD SILVER 107K EXTENDED CAB 4X4 V6 WHITE 60K NICE AND CLEAN JUST ................. $16,995 .................................................. 23,995 2016 FORD MUSTANG V6 SILVER 86K 2014 FORD F150 XLT CREW CAB V6 LOW MILES SPORTY BUY IT........ TOO LATE! SILVER 94K “CHECK HER OUT” 2015 JEEP UNLIMITED RUBICON 4X4 SILVER ...................................................15,995 69K LOADED NC 1 OWNER ............ $26,995 2014 BUICK LACROSSE V6 CXL LEATHER SEATS CHAMPAGNE COLOR “66K”...................................... $16,995 2013 HONDA ACCORD EXL V6 LEATHER PEARL WHITED 125K NOTICE OF........................... SERVICE OF PROCESS$12 BY,995 LOCAL TRADE 2010 FORD F150PUBLICATION LARIAT
CREWOF CAB DIAMOND WHITESTANLY 5.4 ENGCOUNTY STATE NORTH CAROLINA KIND” .............................. $17,995 In“THE the Superior Court PLANET HOME LENDING, LLC v. CRISTEL P. CASTILLO; ANY SPOUSE OF CRISTEL P. CASTILLO; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ACTING BY AND THROUGH ITS AGENCY THE DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; GODDARD & PETERSON, PLLC; 25CV001608-830 Party to be served: CRISTEL P. CASTILLO; ANY SPOUSE OF CRISTEL P. CASTILLO Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled special proceeding. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: Plaintiff is seeking the foreclosure of real property at 1120 FREEMAN VIEW DR., ALBEMARLE, NC 28001. You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than Monday, August 31, 2026, and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought. This, the 10TH day of July, 2026
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NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Brian Keith Williams and Renea G. Williams a/k/a Renea O Williams to Hutchens & Senter, Trustee(s), which was dated March 31, 2007 and recorded on April 11, 2007 in Book 1172 at Page 567, Stanly 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 offer 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 August 18, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Stanly County, North Carolina, to wit: LYING AND BEING ON THAT EAST SIDE OF NORTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY #8, NORTHWEST OF NEW LONDON, NORTH CAROLINA, AND MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A NEW RAILROAD SPIKE IN THE CENTERLINE OF NORTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY #8 (THIS IS THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF A 2.351 ACRE TRACT DEEDED TO LITTLE AME ZION CHURCH; THIS BEGINNING POINT IS LOCATED N. 10-58-36 W. 380.53 FEET FROM THE INTERSECTION OF THE CENTERLINES OF NORTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY #8 AND HERLOCKER ROAD) AND RUNS THENCE WITH THE SOUTH LINE OF THE CHURCH LOT N. 79-01-24 E. 250.01 FEET TO A NEW IRON PIPE; THENCE, A NEW LINE S. 18-28-40 W. 146.53 FEET TO A NEW IRON ROD; THENCE WITH THE NORTH LINE OF JAMES WILLIAMS, JR. (DEED BOOK 227, PAGE 510) N. 81-44-52 W. 188.46 FEET TO A NEW RAILROAD SPIKE IN THE CENTERLINE OF NORTH CAROLINA HIGHWAY #8; THENCE WITH THE CENTERLINE OF SAID HIGHWAY N. 1058-36 W. 65.53 FEET IN THE POINT OF BEGINNING, AND CONTAINING 0.5 ACRE, MORE OR LESS. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 44058 NC 8 Hwy, New London, NC 28127. A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five 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 offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 25E000055-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the estate of Phyllis Ann Graney a/k/a Phyllis Graney deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Phyllis Ann Graney a/k/a Phyllis Graney to present them to the undersigned on or before October 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 22nd day of July 2026. David Eugene Graney 116 Cardinal Drive Rockwell, NC 28138 Executor
Oakboro, NC 28129 JEREMY D. GRIFFIN MORTON AND GRIFFIN LAW FIRM, PLLC 161 Ray Kennedy Dr., PO Box 422 Locust, North Carolina 28097 Telephone: 704-888-2311 Stanly News Journal Publish: July 29, August 5, 12 and 19, 2026.
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000353-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Beatrice Love Blackwelder deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Beatrice Love Blackwelder o the undersigned on or before October 31, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 29th day of July 2026. Mary Kimrey 13036 Robert Drive Stanfield, NC 28163 Executrix
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 25E000331-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executrix of the estate of Charles David Booth, Sr. deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Charles David Booth, Sr. to present them to the undersigned on or before October 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 22nd day of July 2026. Heather Renee Booth Edwards 8045 Rocky River Road Oakboro, NC 28129 Executrix
NOTICES 26SP000117-830 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY COUNTY. NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division File No. 26E000352-830 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of JUDY COBLE TUCKER, Deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the decedent, or her estate, to exhibit them to the undersigned, on or before the 29th day of October, 2026, or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate should make immediate payment to the Administrator. This the 23rd day of July, 2026. Larry T. Tucker Estate of JUDY COBLE TUCKER 19268 Sandbar Road
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 offered 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 Brian Keith Williams and wife, Renea G. Williams. 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 effective 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 effective date of the termination. Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 26-07337-FC01
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000359-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administratrix of the Estate of Linda Harwood Burleson deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Linda Harwood Burleson to present them to the undersigned on or before November 6, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 5th day of August 2026. Cheri Lindsay 2223 Kenwood Drive Kannapolis, NC 28081 Administratrix
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000319-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Carol Lefler Cauble deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Carol Lefler Cauble to present them to the undersigned on or before October 31, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 29th day of July 2026. Mary Moore Clark 413 Park Ridge Road Albemarle, NC 28001 Executor
Notice to Creditors Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Ruth Ann Goodwin, late of 604 N 6th Street, Albemarle, Stanly County, North Carolina 28001, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of same decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 2610 Hwy 218 E, Monroe, NC 28110, on or before the 6th day of November 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 5th day of August, 2026 Cindy G. Fisher Administrator of the Estate of Ruth Ann Goodwin 2451 Roundabout Lane Charlotte, NC 28210 Barry R. Howard Attorney for the Estate PO Box 176 Monroe, NC 28111
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000343-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Rosaland Elaine Efird a/k/a Rosaland Almond Efird deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Rosaland Elaine Efird a/k/a Rosaland Almond Efird to present them to the undersigned on or before October 31, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 29th day of July 2026. Jeffrey Paul Efird 620 Lower Stone Church Road Rockwell, NC 28138 Executor
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000356-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Co-Executor of the Estate of Joseph Harold Copple deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Joseph Harold Copple to present them to the undersigned on or before October 31, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 29th day of July 2026. James Ivan Copple 221 E. 3rd Street Oakboro, NC 28129 Co-Executor Angelena Copple 221 E. 3rd Street Oakboro, NC 28129 Co-Executor
NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000330-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Co-Executor of the estate of John Parrish McIntyre deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said John Parrish McIntyre to present them to the undersigned on or before October 17, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 15th day of July 2026. Meredith McIntyre Curran 304 Castlestone Lane Matthews, NC 28104 Co-Executor John Robert McIntyre 1614 Arbor Way Albemarle, NC 28001 Co-Executor
NOTICE
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 23E000112-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administrator of the estate of Riva Denise Mason deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Riva Denise Mason to present them to the undersigned on or before October 17, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 15th day of July 2026. Tamela Mason 2108 Waymeet Drive Apt. 105 Charlotte, NC 28216 Administrator
NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000334-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the estate of James Floyd Walton, Jr. deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said James Floyd Walton, Jr. to present them to the undersigned on or before October 17, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 15th day of July 2026. Teresa Walton Lowder 1102 Greenwood Street Albemarle, NC 28001 Executor
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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 5, 2026
the stream
UNIVERSAL PICTURES / PARAMOUNT PICTURES / NETFLIX VIA AP
“You, Me & Tuscany,” left, the concert film “Billie Eilish — Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live),” center, and science fiction thriller “The Last House” are all streaming this week.
‘Ted Lasso,’ Billie Eilish, Stray Kids, ‘You, Me & Tuscany,’ ‘The Shards’ Ravyn Lenae drops “Blue Island” The Associated Press THE RETURN of “Ted Lasso” and Billie Eilish’s immersive concert film are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you. Also, among the streaming offerings worth your time this week: The rom-com “You, Me & Tuscany,” a new mini-album from Stray Kids and the new series based on Bret Easton Ellis’ “The Shards.” MOVIES TO STREAM A family is trapped inside their home for years in the new science-fiction thriller “The Last House,” streaming Friday on Netflix. Greta Lee and Wagner Moura play parents to two children who find themselves in the mysterious predicament in the Louis Leterrier-directed movie. James Cameron and Eilish share the directing credit on the concert film “Billie Eilish — Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live),” which hits Paramount+ on Thursday. In her review, AP music writer Maria Sherman wrote, “While no movie can serve as the perfect replica of a transformative live music experience … (this) works an immersive magic. Every seat is the best seat in the house in these shots.” Halle Bailey plays a professional house sitter who impulsively takes up residence in an Italian villa in the romantic comedy “You, Me & Tuscany,” streaming on Peacock starting Friday. Equal parts picturesque and improbable, the movie involves a case of mistaken identity and a lie about an engagement that gets in the way of a potentially real romance with Regé-Jean Page. Jocelyn Noveck, in her review for The Associated Press, wrote that it is “a movie as frothy and insubstantial as the foam on a nice cappuccino.” Colombian filmmaker Simón Mesa Soto won a prize from last year’s Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section for “A Poet,” about a failed writer named Oscar, that will be streaming on Mubi on Friday. AP film writer Jake Coyle, in his review, wrote, “While ‘A Poet’ might remind you of some other films — one would be Cord Jefferson’s ‘A merican Fiction’ — it is, like Oscar, steadfastly its own thing. Filmed on grainy 16mm, it’s even rough and dirty around the edges. … But if Soto’s
ANDY KROPA / INVISION VIA AP
Regé-Jean Page, from left, Halle Bailey, director Kat Coiro and Will Packer attend the premiere of the romantic comedy “You, Me and & Tuscany” at Jazz at Lincoln Center on April 8 in New York.
ter City. He then resigned to return home to Kansas to spend more time with his son, Henry. Now, the Emmy-winning series resumes, with Lasso returning to the U.K. to coach AFC Richmond’s new women’s team. Hannah Waddingham, Brett Goldstein, Juno Temple, Jeremy Swift and Brendan Hunt return with Sudeikis for this continuation of the Lasso universe. Ryan Murphy has teamed up with “American Psycho” and “Less Than Zero” author Ellis to adapt Ellis’ autofiction novel “The Shards” for FX. Set in 1981 in Los Angeles, it stars Igby Rigney as a privileged high school senior named Bret, who finds himself both suspicious of and obsessed with a new student (played by Homer James Jigme Gere). At the same time, a serial killer is targeting teens in the area, and the kids are becoming increasingly paranoid. The show has a roster of rising talent including Kaia Gerber, Hayes Warner and Graham Campbell. It is available now on FX on Hulu. It’s gonna be a minute until Prime Video is ready to release “The Summer I Turned Pretty” movie or Season 2 of “Off Campus,” so it’s churning out the YA shows to keep viewers swooning in the meantime. “Sterling Point” is the latest offering from Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage (“The OC,” “Gossip Girl”), who are co-showrunners alongside buzzy up-and-coming director and actor Megan Park (“My Old Ass”). It’s about a teen named Annie who inherits her grandfather’s island after his death. The drama begins is streaming now. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY
RICHARD SHOTWELL / INVISION VIA AP
Above, Jason Sudeikis arrives at the season four premiere of “Ted Lasso” on July 27 in Los Angeles. Right, Ravyn Lenae’s third album, “Blue Island,” releases Aug. 7. film is loose and gritty, its satire is remarkably precise. This is a farce of creative life where the only pure artistic intention is a joke.” MUSIC TO STREAM The British girl-group greats FLO have found “Therapy at the Club.” At least, that is the promise — and title — of their sophomore album. Expect 16 tracks of R&B-pop bliss. If there’s any wisdom to be learned on the
ATLANTIC VIA AP
dance floor here, it is because their silky-smooth, three-part vocal harmonies delivered the message. It’s hard to underscore just how massive Ravyn Lenae’s 2024 single “Love Me Not” was in 2025. The swoony song went mega-viral on TikTok and became the centerpiece of a lot of online conversation, much of which positioned Lenae as contemporary R&B’s saving grace. But a one-hit wonder with only a dance trend to her name she is
not. “Blue Island,” her forthcoming third album, pushes boundaries — of genre, of expectation and public perception. SERIES TO STREAM Hard to believe, but it’s been three years since “Ted Lasso” concluded its third season on Apple TV. The lovably folksy soccer coach (played by Jason Sudeikis) led AFC Richmond to become No. 2 in the Premier League, behind Manches-
Dogs have been part of video games since 1984’s “Duck Hunt,” but you don’t often get to control them. Koo, the costar of “Beast of Reincarnation,” wants to change that. The feisty mutt and his human pal Emma are fighting bloodthirsty mutants and killer robots in a postapocalyptic Japan in the year 4026. Emma swings a mean katana, but she can call upon Koo to leap in and take a bite out of an enemy — or just sniff out treasure. Fetch it now on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S or PC. In “Big Walk,” you and up to 11 friends are dropped on a mysterious island where your goal ... well, I’m not sure what your goal is. You can team up to solve puzzles. You can go for walks. You can sit and watch the sunset. Sometimes you’ll lose the ability to chat with your buddies, so you’ll need to figure out other ways to communicate. Australian developer House House is best known for 2019’s preposterous “Untitled Goose Game,” and its new release aims to transfer that cult hit’s sense of whimsical chaos to a co-op package. Begin the hike on PlayStation 5, Switch 2 and PC.
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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 5, 2026
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VOLUME 8 ISSUE 36 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026
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THE FORSYTH COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
CHUCK BURTON / AP PHOTO
Hall-worthy Longtime Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly caps his football career Saturday when he joins 386 of his fellow players to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Above, one of the bigger highlights of his career was when he picked off Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson on the second play of a 2016 NFC divisional playoff game, running it back for a touchdown. Carolina won that game 31-24 and continued on to play the Broncos in Super Bowl 50. For more, turn to NSJ sports.
WHAT’S HAPPENING Divided federal appeals court says Trump administration wrong to terminate climate funds A federal appeals court has ruled that the Trump administration improperly ended a multibillion-dollar program for clean energy projects. This decision supports a lower court’s ruling that nonprofits chosen to run the Biden-era effort should have access the funds. The ruling is temporarily on hold, allowing the Environmental Protection Agency time to appeal to the Supreme Court. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, known as a “green bank,” was designed to finance small energy projects. The Trump administration accused the nonprofits of mismanagement and fraud, freezing the funds. The groups denied wrongdoing and sued, claiming legal violations.
Guard deployment to Washington, D.C., into 2029 will cost roughly $1.4B, estimate shows The extension of the National Guard deployment in Washington, D.C., until January 2029 will cost roughly $1.4 billion, according to a Defense Department estimate provided to Congress. The figure offers a glimpse of how much taxpayer money will be spent on a deployment that has been criticized by local officials as an infringement of their city’s autonomy and by Democrats who say it has militarized the streets of the nation’s capital.
$2.00
Commissioners deny Rural Hall data center The 130-acre project would have totaled more than 1 million square feet of development By Ryan Henkel Twin City Herald WINSTON-SALEM — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners shot down a proposal for a potential data center at its most recent meeting. At the board’s July 30 meeting, a public hearing was held regarding the potential data center. The hearing was for a zoning petition for just under 130 acres of property located at the northwestern side of Bethania-Rural Hall Road and north of Tabaccoville Road and the terminus
of Glade Street, to be rezoned from Residential to General and Limited Industrial – Special Use, to allow for the development of a data center. “This was not an easy decision,” said Marty Serber, who was representing the land owners who are looking to sell what is currently farmland. “Like so many family farms, times have changed, and many changes have occurred along the property line. Several businesses have moved in, and they’ve all changed the purpose of our farm. It’s become an expensive hobby. At the end of the day, this is about choosing what this land is best suited for next.” According to the proposed site plan, the development would be composed of three two-story buildings with a max-
“The messages we have heard for several months now are overwhelmingly in opposition to the proposed rezoning.” Commissioner Dan Besse imum height of 85 feet and comprising around 360,000 square feet each. However, following discussions, the board voted 5-2 in favor of denial of the request. “The messages we have heard for several months now are overwhelmingly in opposition to the proposed rezoning,” said Commissioner Dan Besse. “There is promise for great
revenue, and I will say that Forsyth County is in need of some additional revenue, but not at the cost of the citizens here in Forsyth County,” said Commissioner Malishai Woodbury. The only commissioners to vote in favor of the rezoning were Board Chair Don Martin and Vice Chair Gloria Whisenhunt. “This farm will become something else if not developed into a data center,” Martin said. “Personally, I think that it is likely that a large subdivision will be built, which will not require a zoning change, and that large subdivision will produce a lot of traffic and noise to boot. And since it is unlikely to be in the Rural Hall town limits, the town will not receive any tax benefit from this development.” “Financially, it would be wonderful for Rural Hall and it would be great for Forsyth County,” Whisenhunt said. “We need to find ways to finance the services that we’re mandated to service See CENTER, page A2
Stein, Jackson plan to hold Duke Energy ‘accountable’ in data center pledge More than 200 organizations have signed the Ratepayer Protection Pledge By Jessica Taylor For Twin City Herald RALEIGH — Gov. Josh Stein and Attorney General Jeff Jackson urged Duke Energy to create a legally binding contract to abide by the promises it has made after joining the federal administration’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge. “Duke just promised the federal government that it won’t shift the cost of data centers onto families,” said Jackson in the press release. “We agree, but a promise in Washing-
“North Carolinians are struggling to make ends meet, and data centers must pay their own way to protect families from rising electricity costs.” Gov. Josh Stein ton doesn’t lower a power bill in North Carolina. We’re calling on Duke to make that same promise to the Utilities Commission, in writing, where it can be enforced.” “I am pleased to see that Duke Energy has signed on to the Ratepayer Protection
Pledge,” added Stein. “Now, Duke Energy must make that voluntary pledge real. “The North Carolina Utilities Commission and Duke Energy must create a legally binding large load tariff to charge data centers their full freight, and they must establish a program that allows data centers to directly select and pay for their generation,” said Stein. “North Carolinians are struggling to make ends meet, and data centers must pay their own way to protect families from rising electricity costs.” Duke Energy is the largest investor-owned electric utility in North Carolina, serving about 8.7 million electric customers and 1.6 million natural gas customers.
Last week, Duke Energy Carolinas, the Utilities Commission’s Public Staff and others reached a settlement to establish large load tariffs and new rules for data centers, according to the press release. Jackson will participate in the process and has urged the Utilities Commission to create a separate rate class for data centers and large energy users. The attorney general has further asked Duke to make realistic projections about data center growth and ensure that Duke will propose rules to have large companies bear the cost of infrastructure upgrades. Duke is additionally being urged to work with the Utilities See PLEDGE, page A2
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Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 6, 2026
THURSDAY
8.6.26 #412
Edwards quits reelection bid after committee recommends his censure The 11th District Republican’s behavior was deemed “beyond inappropriate”
“Join the conversation” North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Trip Hoffend, 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 NSJONLINE.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, NC and at additional mailing offices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607
CENTER from page A1 other than raising property taxes.” While the commissioners rejected the proposal, the majority stated they were not against data centers entirely but that this case was more so about the proposed location and its incongruity with the surrounding area. “I’m not saying that I’m against data centers, but I’m against data centers in Rural Hall,” said Commissioner Tonya McDaniel. The board also held a second hearing for a special use permit request for the development of a land clearing and inert debris landfill on around 70 acres of property located on the south side of Watkins Ford Road, east of High Point Road and west of Idlewild Road. The site plan lays out the development of a 37-acre landfill, split into a 29-acre portion in the north and eight acres in the south and separated by a stream, along with a one-acre recycling area. Following the hearing, the board approved the special use permit request. The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners will next meet Aug. 13.
By Kevin Freking The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Embattled North Carolina Republican congressman Chuck Edwards withdrew from his reelection campaign Wednesday, two days after the House Ethics Committee recommended he be censured for unprofessional and inappropriate conduct toward two young female aides in his office. The Ethics Committee recommended the censure, an act registering its deep disapproval of a lawmaker’s conduct that does not meet the threshold for expulsion, on Monday. The panel highlighted numerous examples of actions it considered improper, including Edwards providing the young women with lavish and recurrent gifts, making comments regarding their appearance and dress, inviting them to intimate dinners and vacations, and sending notes regarding his affection. According to North Carolina state law, a candidate who officially resigns their nomination can be replaced on the ballot by their party. Edwards, 65, denied that any of his conduct was intended as a sexual or romantic advance, but the committee said his behavior would “lead a reasonable observer to interpret it as such.” Edwards, who is serving his second term, said that he made the decision to drop his reelection bid after “much prayer and reflection” and that he would complete the current term. “Serving Western North Carolina has been the honor of my life,” he said in a post on X. “Thank you for your trust,
forsythcommunity@ northstatejournal.com Weekly deadline is Monday at noon
House Ethics Committee prayers, and support. God bless WNC and America.” The Ethics Committee described Edwards’ actions as “beyond inappropriate” but said it found no evidence that he explicitly propositioned any person under his employ or engaged in any sexual activity with them. On Tuesday, a spokesperson for Sen. Ted Budd (R-N.C.) said “Senator Budd does not disclose his private conversations, but he finds the House Ethics report deeply concerning. He believes Rep. Edwards faces a significant uphill battle in his reelection bid, given that he was already trailing in the polls.” Report found Edwards made aides “uncomfortable” The Ethics panel found no evidence Edwards explicitly propositioned any person under his employ or engaged in any sexual activity with them. But it also said he failed to adhere to “the spirit of rules prohibiting sexual harassment of and unwanted advances to House staffers.” “Both women were uncomfortable with his behavior (which they attempted to communicate) but were put in an untenable position by virtue of his status as their boss and a Member of Congress,” the Ethics Committee said in its 25-page report. “Representative Edwards was at minimum blind to that reality, and at worst, dismissive of the impact his inappro-
priate conduct had on the careers and well-being of two women on his staff.” One aide worked for the congressman’s office for about 21⁄2 years and the other for about three years. They no longer work there. The Ethics panel said they left due to conduct described in its report, although they provided other explanations to Edwards. In a 15-page response to the report, Edwards’ attorneys argued that the committee’s findings “exonerate” the congressman, pointing to the conclusion that he did not engage in sexual activity or explicitly proposition any staff member. His attorneys said the recommendation of censure was an “extraordinarily harsh and infrequent punishment” that is based on vague standards and adherence to the spirit of House rules, “not based on a direct violation of House rules addressing sexual misconduct.” House members are prohibited from engaging in sexual harassment or making unwanted advances toward their subordinates. The committee’s report detailed numerous gifts that Edwards gave the two aides, calling the gifts “beyond norms of professional behavior.” The women received jewelry totaling more than $1,000, designer purses, guns, shoes, flowers, a laptop and cell phone, as well as vacations, tickets to performances, and one-on-one dinners.
The Edwards investigation came at a time of heightened scrutiny of lawmakers’ behavior toward female staffers following the resignations of Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell and Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales. Both were facing calls for their expulsion before they stepped down earlier this year. In May, House leadership designated Reps. Kat Cammack (R-Fla.) and Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) to lead a bipartisan effort to combat sexual misconduct in Congress. Their work is focused on making Capitol Hill a safer job environment for women. The Ethics panel said Edwards cooperated with the investigation and acknowledged to them that at least some of the behavior at issue could be viewed as inappropriate. However, he has not acknowledged or taken responsibility for the harm he caused, the committee said. In his interview with the committee, the panel said Edwards repeatedly asserted that he knows well what constitutes “sexual harassment” and seemed to believe he had immunized himself from such a charge by avoiding inappropriate touching and sexual comments and occasionally telling the staffers that they were free to put up boundaries. “Despite the absence of an explicit proposition, a reasonable person could interpret Representative Edwards’ intimate and effusive attentions, where he prioritized the personal over the professional, as thinly veiled advances,” the committee wrote. It appears Edwards will stay in his seat in Congress through January, though his announcement may not save him from being censured once the House returns from its August break.
Man carrying ammo was monitoring security at Trump golf course near LA, authorities say A search of his home uncovered a rifle, body armor and concerning written statements By Jaimie Ding The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — A man carrying ammunition and with a gun in his vehicle was arrested Sunday at President Donald Trump’s Los Angeles-area golf course after appearing to monitor security preparations ahead of Trump’s fundraiser there on Tuesday, authorities said. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said Jeanine John Taele, 38, took photos and video and had a 16-round magazine with ammunition in his pocket. A search of his pickup truck in the golf course parking lot turned up a
PLEDGE from page A1 Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements:
“Representative Edwards was at minimum blind to that reality, and at worst, dismissive of the impact his inappropriate conduct had on the careers and well-being of two women on his staff.”
House rules in place to protect staff
Commission to establish its own means of generating power, given that its contracts are confidential. Earlier this month, Duke Energy lowered its proposed rate increase for residential customers, which received pushback from Jackson and consumers. The increase was lowered from 18% to 11.6%. The Ratepayer Protection Pledge was issued March 4 to ensure the growth of data centers does not increase electricity costs for American households and ratepayers. It asks that large energy users, such as data centers, generate and pay for their own power. Leading U.S. hyperscalers, including Amazon, Google,
loaded 9mm pistol, binoculars and a badge that read “security protection agent,” according to the U.S. attorney’s office in Los Angeles. Law enforcement searched his home in the nearby city of Downey on Monday and found a rifle and other firearms, magazines and ammunition, body armor and notebooks with “concerning statements,” federal authorities said. No details about the statements were released. The sheriff’s department announced the arrest as Trump was preparing to arrive for the Republican National Committee dinner Tuesday at the Trump National Golf Course in Rancho Palos Verdes just south of Los Angeles. “Mr. Taele’s troubling behavior at the President’s public golf course merely days before the President was expected to arrive
raised serious red flags for law enforcement,” Patrick Grandy, the assistant director in charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles office, said in a statement. “There is no room for error, particularly in light of previous attempts on President Trump’s life.” Last year a jury found a man guilty of trying to assassinate Trump at the president’s Florida country club. And while a candidate in 2024, Trump narrowly escaped an assassination attempt by a shooter on a roof at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Ahead of Tuesday’s event, federal agents conducted a security assessment last Friday at the Trump course near Los Angeles. A person later identified as Taele was seen walking throughout the course, wore an earpiece and took photographs and videos of federal agents’
activities, authorities said. Taele drove away but then returned to the course Sunday. He approached federal agents and said he was employed by the State Department and was there for a security detail. Taele said he had a loaded weapon in his vehicle and was arrested after it was searched, according to federal officials. Taele was charged with several felonies including second-degree robbery, receiving a large-capacity magazine and possession of a short-barreled rifle or shotgun. He was also charged with carrying a concealed firearm in a vehicle, a misdemeanor. He pleaded not guilty to all the charges Monday and was ordered to stay away from the golf course and not possess weapons. His bail was set at $250,000.
Meta, OpenAI and xAI, have signed on to the pledge. The pledge drives home five points: that companies will build, bring or buy new power supply and pay the full cost; pay for new power delivery infrastructure upgrades; pay whether or not they use the power; invest in local communities where they build data centers; and coordinate with grid operators to contribute to a more reliable grid. Several companies across Michigan, Indiana, Georgia, Mississippi, Iowa, Louisiana and Texas have reached agreements that project billions in customer savings over the years or ensure that companies cover 100% of costs. “Big tech companies are committing to fully cover the
cost of increased electricity production required for AI data centers, and that would be prices for American communities will not go up, but in many cases will actually come down,” said President Donald Trump during a roundtable about the pledge. Alongside corporations, 23 Republican governors announced their support for the pledge and signed it. When asked why Stein did not follow suit, senior press secretary Onotse Omoyeni explained that Stein’s office “did not receive outreach from the administration about signing this pledge.” Omoyeni emphasized that “the pledge aligns closely with the recommendations of the Governor’s Energy Policy Task Force” and that “Gover-
nor Stein believes data centers need to pay their way so that North Carolina residents don’t bear the costs of their massive energy consumption.” The Energy Policy Task Force is a bipartisan group established by Stein in August 2025. The task force recommends developing options for large load tariffs, facilities bringing in their own local power resources and load flexibility programs to keep ratepayers from paying infrastructure expansion costs. Omoyeni added that when Stein signed the state budget, it eliminated the sales and use tax exemption for data centers’ electricity use. She also stated that Stein supports phasing out the exemption in place for equipment purchases.
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Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 6, 2026
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | VICTOR JOECKS
The inadequacy of opposing socialism
It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back.
DON’T ASSUME socialism’s inevitable failures will stop it from spreading. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced that his government-run grocery stores will offer products at a 30% discount. The appeal of this plan is obvious. Everyone would like to pay less for milk, eggs and meat. That this plan won’t work is equally obvious to anyone who understands basic economics. Unfortunately, that excludes many New Yorkers and college graduates. Take a look at the details of Mamdani’s plan. He doesn’t want the city to run these stores. He’s seeking proposals from “qualified grocers or firms to serve as operators” of the stores. “The City sets the mission, the standards and the store design; experienced third-party operators run the stores day to day under those requirements,” a release from Mamdani’s office states. Further, “operators will be required to provide family-sustaining wages and benefits and commit to a Labor Peace Agreement so that workers who want to organize can do so without interference.” That Mamdani doesn’t trust NYC’s bureaucracy to run his grocery stores is smart, but it also shows why the government shouldn’t run grocery stores. Mamdani may want to seize the means of production, but he appears to recognize that government doesn’t do a great job of producing. His premise is also absurd. Most
grocery stores have profit margins of 1% to 3%. Mamdani wants an operator to run his stores with 30% discounts on major items and to allow a union to inflate worker pay. Maybe Mamdani can hire fairies to stock the shelves with products delivered by unicorns. But Mamdani doesn’t expect these operators to lower prices by 30%. The city’s request for proposals states the city “will provide financial support to the Operator(s) to mitigate operating deficits attributable to discounted Core Basket sales and enable cost-effective program delivery.” This subsidy would be in addition to NYC taxpayers paying $70 million to build five stores and then cover their rent and property taxes. Mamdani’s grocery store scheme won’t prove the superiority of socialism because he’s not even trying to lower costs. He’s content to disguise them with crony capitalism. It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back. If the grocery stores are “successful,” they’ll drive nearby privately run stores out of business, which will erode the tax base. That will require more government-subsidized grocery stores, driving more grocery stores out of business and further reducing tax revenues. This spiral will continue until New Yorkers come to their electoral senses or run out of toilet paper — proof a
country has fully implemented socialism. These are important arguments to make. But they aren’t enough. Mamdani gives his followers specifics that create a clear narrative. According to him, the problem is high prices — the villains are rich people, and the solution is government-run grocery stores. Now, Mamdani is wrong — very wrong — on the details. But conservatives need to imitate his model. For instance, electricity prices are too high — the villain is the left’s push for expensive and unreliable green energy, and the solution is ending federal subsidies for wind and solar. States also need to repeal their renewable portfolio standards. Car prices are too high — the villain is anti-fossil fuel regulations pushed by Democrats, and the solution is requiring Congress to authorize any restrictions on gas-powered vehicles. Now one challenge for conservatives is that real solutions can take years to work, while socialists promise quick fixes and gimmicks. But by identifying the root cause of a problem, conservatives make a much stronger argument. It isn’t enough to point out the many problems with socialist proposals. Conservatives also need to provide villains and solutions. Victor Joecks is a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI
Fauci’s cowardly Fifth Amendment evasion
The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive.
THERE’S NOTHING inherently wrong with invoking the Fifth Amendment. The perception that anyone who pleads the Fifth to protect themselves from self-incrimination is only hiding guilt is wrong. Innocent people are often intimidated or tricked by those in power into implicating themselves. Others might get nervous under oath and worry about misspeaking under pressure. Former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Anthony Fauci, who appeared before the Senate committee investigating the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is not one of those people. There is some legal question as to whether a person who has received a pardon loses his ability to plead the Fifth since the assertion is predicated on shielding them from future crimes, like lying to Congress. Fauci, after all, could admit to personally creating COVID-19 in a lab and then spreading it himself, and there is still nothing the government could do to him. Former President Joe Biden gave him an unprecedented pardon for any federal offenses related to any pandemic-era actions between Jan. 1, 2014, and Jan. 19, 2025. The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive. It’s difficult to imagine anything that could incentivize criminality and abuse of power with the government more than knowing a president will give you a get-out-of-jail-free card at the end of a term. The entire point of the hearings, Fauci
contends, is to trap him. Fauci says Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), who released a cache of diary entries and emails earlier this week, says he is obsessed with prosecuting him, evident by his “repeated slanderous comments” and release of unredacted personal documents, which were aimed at “embarrassing and intimidation.” Perhaps. But Fauci, who was employed by the federal government for 54 years, director of the NIAID for 38, has likely delivered thousands of speeches and appeared in front of Congress somewhere around 250 times. If he can’t offer clear and honest testimony under oath, who can? The fact is that being truthful under oath would mean explaining several things: Why, though Fauci knew COVID-19’s fatality rate was likely at 0.2%-0.3% and “acting like a bad influenza,” he told Congress that it was “10 times more lethal than the seasonal flu.” Why, after privately expressing frustration regarding the efficacy of lockdowns in flattening the curve, Fauci not only advocated closing businesses and schools nationally but framed anyone who was skeptical as villains. Why Fauci publicly contended that he had absolutely nothing to do with school closings yet privately took credit for frightening the mayor of New York, the governor of California and others into shutting down their states. Why Fauci privately acknowledged that the wet market in Wuhan “was not the source” of the virus but the “amplifier”
and yet continued contending, with great scientific certitude, that the virus jumping from bats to humans was “absolutely totally compatible” with the available evidence, but the theory of the virus being created in the Wuhan Institute of Virology was a “very, very, very, very remote possibility.” Committee Democrats, incidentally, declined to rebut any Republican criticisms aimed at Fauci or speak on any of the problems of the pandemic response. Many of these Democrats had not treated Fauci’s word as indisputable truth and smeared anyone who questioned his authoritarian remedies as if they were members of a death cult. Instead, Democrats used their time to highlight the spread of measles cases under anti-vaccine activist and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. It’s an important topic. The problem, though, is that Fauci and other public health officials who lied and manipulated the public under the banner of “science” have a lot to do with the collapse of trust in the institutions that help fight measles outbreaks. Failing to get any accountability or full transparency from those who botched the COVID pandemic response only fuels more suspicion and skepticism about vaccines. And, make no mistake, avoiding accountability and transparency are the real reasons Fauci took the Fifth. David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
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Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 6, 2026
US companies stepping up to cut reliance on China for critical minerals used in key weapons The transition will likely take years despite Pentagon funding and tight deadlines
Some concerns remain. The U.S. is dependent on imports of the critical mineral tungsten, with China controlling roughly 80% of the global mine supply and an even larger share of processing, according to Brodie Sutherland, CEO of Patriot Critical Minerals Corp. Sutherland, whose company seeks to explore and mine tungsten in the U.S., is concerned that America will not be able to get by without China-sourced tungsten after a Pentagon-imposed deadline of Jan. 1, 2027. Efforts to ramp up U.S. production will take years, he said, and in the meantime, the Pentagon and its defense contractors will need to rely on existing inventories, expanded recycling and limited non-China sources.
By Didi Tang, Josh Funk and Rodrique Ngowi The Associated Press EXETER, N.H. — Tucked inside a New Hampshire office park, a small refinery zaps mining waste with electricity to tease out critical minerals needed for key U.S. weapons systems, including missiles used in the Iran war. It can play a part in helping America break the chokehold China has on processing critical minerals, but it will take up to a year and a half to build a new factory as the Trump administration pushes to expand domestic production. The company, Phoenix Tailings, recently got a $500 million loan from the Pentagon to ramp up its work, after starting out eight years ago as a backyard lab seeking a cleaner metal-refining method. It’s just the latest critical minerals company the government has backed. The task that workers carry out in heat-resistant suits and sealed face masks has become more urgent as the Iran conflict draws down key munitions such as Tomahawk cruise missiles and THAAD interceptors. While the White House is demanding military contractors speed up production, it’s also imposing stricter rules banning them from sourcing critical minerals from China. “It will be a tall order and a challenge to replenish these stocks and scale up in the timeframe needed to meet defense demand and regulations,” said Anthony Balladon, chief commercial officer and a co-founder of Phoenix Tailings. He said the company is working hard to boost capacity. Although the U.S. is quickening its pace to build domestic supplies of critical minerals free of control from its most formidable rival, it will likely take years for companies across the industry to build new mines and boost production of the high-powered magnets essential in many high-tech applications. Extracting some of the hard-to-pronounce elements from existing mine waste can help satisfy the growing demand in the meantime, but it will likely take several companies to do that. Critical minerals industry has big plans, but it will take time to ramp up Phoenix Tailings taps waste from traditional mining as well as recycled magnets and disk drives as raw materials, work-
PHOTOS BY RODRIQUE NGOWI / AP PHOTO
A worker drives a forklift at the Phoenix Tailings refinery July 22 in Exeter, New Hampshire.
Iran war, Trump’s China order create pressure, opportunity
ing to counter China in processing where it has the strongest hold on the supply chain. The company based in the Boston-area city of Woburn, Massachusetts, plans to build a bigger facility to extract and produce critical metals needed in not only defense but also the aerospace and automotive industries. “We call it the freedom facility because, ultimately, the purpose of this is to ensure that the entire Western Hemisphere, the United States and its allies are free of Chinese influence within the rare-earth space,” Balladon said. On a recent afternoon, two technicians in heat-resistant hazmat suits were operating an apparatus of cylinders, tubes, funnels and control panels set up on a platform with bright yellow railings. A chemical process involving electricity removes oxygen and turns the material into a grayish metal that can be used to make the extremely strong permanent magnets used in fighter jets, missiles, radar systems and drones. The metals that Phoenix Tailings refines and other critical minerals play “an outsized role” in defense systems, Balladon said. A $150 million weapons system won’t work if it’s missing critical minerals that may be worth only $20,000 to $30,000, he said. The defense sector is particularly reliant on the metal samarium and needs 50 to 100 tons each year, but U.S. capacity is very limited, he said. Phoenix Tailings is among the few companies capable of producing the final metal, according to Balladon, but its capacity is only about 440 pounds a year. He said the company will scale up to about 5 tons in the next three months but that it will be next year or 2028 before
The need to increase production has become more urgent as renewed fighting with Iran digs into the U.S. military’s already diminished stockpiles of advanced missile interceptors, including Patriots and THAADs, according to a recent analysis from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington, D.C., think tank. It also has raised concerns that the military would have diminished firepower in any potential future conflict with China. CSIS warned in May that it could take at least three years to replenish stockpiles of Tomahawks, Patriots and THAADs, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense interceptors. At the same time, President Donald Trump has announced stricter controls on defense contractors sourcing critical materials from China. “It is the policy of the United States that not only the finished equipment deployed by our military, but also the critical materials and components necessary to manufacture, maintain, sustain, and repair that equipment, are sourced domestically or from allied nations,” the July 20 executive order says. Lockheed Martin, which makes THAADs and many other weapons systems, said, “We continuously assess the global rare earth supply chain to ensure access to critical materials that support our customers’ missions.” Several other major U.S. defense contractors, including Raytheon Technologies and Northrop Grumman, didn’t respond to requests for comment. Balladon, of Phoenix Tailings, was confident in U.S. companies. “Ultimately, with the right support and partners across the industry, we think we can make it happen,” he said.
A worker uses a drill with a metal brush attachment to polish an ingot of rare earth metal known as neodymium-praseodymium oxide. it reaches its goal of 120-ton capacity. Another U.S. magnet maker looks to France for raw materials Arnold Magnetic Technologies for years relied on China for samarium to produce the extremely strong, stable-in-high-temperatures magnet that goes into precision-guided missiles such as Tomahawks. That doesn’t work anymore. For Arnold, the solution to getting the critical minerals it needs has come from a relic of Europe’s past rare-earth industry — abandoned mining dirt in the French city of La Rochelle. Solvay, a Belgium-headquartered chemical company, stopped separating and processing rare earths from the mined dirt in the 2000s. That was when China was building up most of the world’s processing capacity with a determination to dominate the industry. China weaponized that
near-monopoly last year by choking off its flow of processed critical materials and forcing the U.S. government to back off during a trade war. Solvay then restarted work and has added other rare earths this year, including samarium. “This ramp-up is driven by several factors: rapidly growing demand for permanent magnets, increased geopolitical focus on supply chain security, and strong customer demand in Europe and the United States for more diversified, resilient and traceable sources of supply,” a Solvay spokesperson said. For Arnold Magnetic Technologies, paying more to get its supply from Solvay instead of China has not been a deal-breaker, because the samarium-cobalt magnets it makes account for only a small cost in a weapon system, said Arnold CEO Matt Blake. “They are not the absolute cost drivers,” he said. Plus, the company says the surge in demand for magnets has worked in its favor.
RODRIQUE NGOWI / AP PHOTO
Phoenix Tailings has a rare earth metal refinery facility in Exeter, New Hampshire.
Forsyth SPORTS NCHSAA selects next commissioner The transition for the governing body will take place across a couple of months Twin City Herald staff
COURTESY NCHSAA
Brad Alford
CHAPEL HILL — Brad Alford will be the next commissioner of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association, replacing retiring Que Tucker on Oct. 1. Alford is director of the Office of Athletics for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, where he oversees statewide governance and administration of interscholastic athletics for North Car-
olina’s public schools. He also serves as the state superintendent’s designee for interscholastic athletics and represents NCDPI on the NCHSAA board of directors. Beginning as an intern in 2010, Alford spent nearly 15 years in various roles with the NCHSAA. Alford will be part of a transition period beginning Aug. 24, working alongside Tucker. He’ll be the association’s eighth commissioner for an organization that is more than 100 years old. Tucker has been commissioner since 2015. According to the NCHSAA, Alford helped oversee championship operations, sport administration, compliance, governance and major statewide initiatives during his previous time with the association. He was a Southern Durham High School graduate before earning an undergraduate degree from Mount Olive and master’s degree in sport management from East Carolina.
Mayfield feels ‘disrespected’ by Buccaneers ownership after failing to agree on new contract The former Panthers quarterback will play out the final season of his contract By Rob Maaddi The Associated Press TAMPA, Fla. — Baker Mayfield feels “disrespected” by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and is focused on playing his best football. The two-time Pro Bowl quarterback didn’t get the contract extension he sought and plans to play out the final season of his three-year, $100 million deal. “I’ve been pretty up front and honest about my feelings about Tampa, it being home for our family, raising kids here,” Mayfield said. “We love it here. I wanted a deal done and set the deadline and told them it was going to be all ball after that, and I did mean that. I don’t know if they thought I was gonna take some of the offers that they gave. “I’m at the point in my career, understanding what I’ve brought to this franchise. One, I’m very thankful for the chance they gave me — do not get me wrong on that. But I also know, I really know what I’ve brought to this franchise, leadership-wise and even play-wise. It’s been some of the best years of my career, and I think it’s only going to trend upwards.” Mayfield, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft by Cleveland, revived his career in Tampa Bay after replacing Tom Brady in 2023. He made the Pro Bowl in each of his first two seasons while leading the Bucs to consecutive NFC South titles. He was an MVP candidate through the first half of last sea-
“Money should never be the motivation in football. It’s how do I help this team win?” Baker Mayfield son when the team started 6-2 but struggled with injuries and tailed off. “It’s disappointing in that regard, to feel disrespected a little bit,” he said. “That’s really the disappointing part, to feel undervalued after thinking you’ve earned it. This is not a ‘poor me’ thing. There’s a lot of other people who have it way worse off. But I can sit here and look at other quarterbacks and peers and evaluate myself based on that and put myself in certain categories that I deserved to be compensated for that. “I think I’m a franchise quarterback. I’ve been told I’m a franchise quarterback. It’s been said publicly from ownership down here, and to not have a deal done is very disappointing.” Mayfield had set a deadline on getting a new contract by the start of training camp. He said he addressed his teammates to let them know he won’t let the issue become a distraction. He also doesn’t need it to motivate him. “Money should never be the motivation in football,” he said. “It’s how do I help this team win? It’s never going to be the motivation for me. When it comes to having a chip on your shoulder and all that, for me it just puts me in the mindset of betting on myself. That’s something
I’m pretty familiar with, and it’s a good place to be. As a highly competitive guy, sometimes you have to put yourself backed into a corner and fight your way out. I have a lot of guys and a lot of staff around me that are with me, so I’m not alone in it. We’re fighting for the same goal, and that’s to be playing in February.” If Mayfield plays like he did in 2024 — 4,500 yards passing, 41 touchdown passes, 71.4% completion rate, 106.8 passer rating — the Buccaneers likely will have to pay him even more than he commands now. A contract that averages between $50 million and $55 million is considered to be Mayfield’s current range. “Baker hasn’t missed a beat or changed one bit through anything that’s going on,” offensive lineman Ben Bredeson said. “He’s still our quarterback, he’s still the same leader, friend, guy that we all love. When he says it’s all about ball, he means it. He’s probably one of the most consistent and locked-in individuals I’ve ever had the chance to play with. It’s an honor going to work with him every day, and no matter what’s happening outside of the building, he has not changed one bit and is ready to go at all times.” Two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Vita Vea is also unhappy with his contract situation as he enters the final year of his deal. He has missed the first two days of practice with a back injury. “It’s all about winning here now and what we’re going to do and hopefully gets his back fixed and gets his deal done,” Mayfield said. “Vita deserves that. He’s the anchor of our defense. I hope they take care of him.”
CHRIS O’MEARA / AP PHOTO
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield takes a snap during training camp practice.
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ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Laneigh Scales
COURTESY UNCGWBB / INSTAGRAM
Laneigh Scales is a 2026 graduate of Glenn, where she played basketball and was the Piedmont Triad 5A/6A Defensive Player of the Year, as well as first-team all-conference. Scales was fifth in the NCHSAA (all classes) in rebounding and sixth in double-doubles, leading 6A in both categories while also ranking third in Class 6A in blocks. She was also named all-district by the N.C. Basketball Coaches Association and was voted MVP of the Bobcats. Scales, who will play in college at UNC Greensboro, added to her list of accolades when she was selected to the East-West All-Star Game held in Greensboro last month. She finished with six points for the West, including four straight points late in the game to cut the East lead to one point.
Darnold ready to help Seahawks defend crown The former Panthers’ quarterback is coming off a Super Bowl win By Andrew Destin The Associated Press SEATTLE — Less than six months removed from his first NFL title, Sam Darnold briefly chuckled to himself. Darnold was asked if he feels the narratives about him have gone by the wayside. For years, the discourse on Darnold centered around him being a bust, considering his pedigree as a former No. 3 overall pick, and a transient quarterback who hopped from team to team. Darnold’s first year under center for the Seahawks, after all, marked his fifth team in eight seasons. Despite the scrutiny, Darnold said his confidence in himself has never wavered. “I don’t allow myself to really pay attention to anything like that,” Darnold said five days into training camp. “If I do catch wind of it, I have my process on how to handle that. Like I said, it’s just about handling my process and doing it my way, so that when I get out there, it’s not about what I’ve done or what I’m going to do, it’s about what I’m doing right now. “I think if I just continue to have that mindset as we go on, we’ll be just fine.” What Darnold is more interested in is getting up to speed with the Seahawks’ new offensive scheme. First-year offensive coordinator Brian Fleury and Darnold have some familiarity with one another. Fleury spent the last four years as the 49ers’ tight ends coach, and Darnold was San Francisco’s backup in 2023. Darnold has enjoyed getting to reconnect with the stoic Fleury, who has been tasked with re-
placing current Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak. “Whether it’s a good play or bad play, his mentality never changes out there on the field, which I already knew about, being in San Francisco with him,” Darnold said. “But he was always very even keel. Now getting to spend a lot more time with him as the offensive coordinator, it’s fun to be able to watch him work every single day and see his mentality out there.” Darnold would also like to keep working on his rapport with wide receiver Rashid Shaheed, who signed a $51 million, three-year contract in March. Shaheed spent a good chunk of the offseason training with Darnold. The two Southern California natives teamed up at Saddleback College in Orange County, which Darnold imagines will only help Shaheed further get up to speed with the Seahawks ahead of his first full season in Seattle. “He’s a friendly receiver to throw to,” Darnold said. “... I’m looking forward to him continuing to get more reps and build that chemistry so that we can see him more often getting catches and doing his thing at the receiver position.” While Darnold isn’t one to reflect on how far he’s come, coach Mike Macdonald is more than willing to shower praise on his even-keeled quarterback as the Seahawks seek to defend their Super Bowl title. “The thing I appreciate about Sam — and you can’t speak for everybody — but just every rep is a rep,” Macdonald said. “If it’s in the quarterback room and they’re going over the script, he treats that rep the same as he does here, if it’s practiced online or we’re in a game. It’s all the same. That’s the mental approach that we want all of our guys to take.”
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B2 SIDELINE REPORT NBA
Green agrees to 1-year, $27.7M contract to remain with Warriors San Francisco Draymond Green has reportedly agreed to a one-year, $27.7 million deal to return to the Golden State Warriors. Green will sign the deal that essentially matches the deal he opted out of last month before the Warriors made an unsuccessful bid to sign LeBron James. Green is now set to play his 15th season with the Warriors. If he plays in 51 games, he will join Stephen Curry as the only players in franchise history to appear in at least 1,000 contests.
NFL
Vikings suspend new DB coach Alexander for 3 weeks following drunken driving charge The Minnesota Vikings suspended defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander for three weeks without pay following a drunken driving charge in April. Alexander’s suspension will be in effect until Aug. 13, two days before their first preseason game. Alexander, a Carolina Panthers player in 2010, pled guilty July 16 to a gross misdemeanor charge of third-degree driving while impaired. He was arrested at about 4 a.m. after his vehicle was stopped in the middle of an intersection in a Minneapolis suburb. He was allegedly unresponsive and failed field sobriety tests.
LPGA
Kuwaki of Japan wins the Women’s British Open on second playoff hole Lytham St. Annes, England Shiho Kuwaki of Japan saved par to stay alive in a sudden-death playoff and then won with a par on the second extra hole to claim the Women’s British Open over Esther Henseleit of Germany for her first major title. Kuwaki closed with a 1-under 70 and looked like a winner in regulation until Henseleit holed a 40-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole at Royal Lytham & St. Annes for a 70 to join Kuwaki at 5-under 279.
MLB
A’s place rookie Kuroda-Grauer on injured list following surgery for ruptured testicle The Athletics placed rookie infielder Joshua Kuroda-Grauer on the 10-day injured list following emergency surgery for a ruptured testicle caused by a foul ball the night before. The A’s said Kuroda-Grauer was resting comfortably a day after fouling a ball into his groin in the fifth inning of their 5-2 win over the Diamondbacks. Kuroda-Grauer fell to the ground in pain but stayed in the game and managed to hit a single before being replaced at third base.
WNBA
Post showing Bueckers, Reese betting on game “missed the mark” The WNBA says a social media post showing stars Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese betting $400 on the outcome of a game between their teams “missed the mark.” The players reportedly won’t be punished for the bet. The league posted the video from All-Star Weekend, days before Bueckers’ Dallas Wings and Reese’s Atlanta Dream were set to play. The clip featured Bueckers and Reese placing what appeared to be a personal wager on the game. The WNBA deleted the post, but not before it was shared on social media.
Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Women’s Professional Baseball League debuts in front of enthusiastic crowd The league is the first pro women’s baseball league in the U.S. in 30 years By Jay Cohen The Associated Press SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Sarah Hodel and Rachel Koehler arrived at Robin Roberts Stadium more than four hours before the first game of the Women’s Professional Baseball League. Once inside, Hodel stopped periodically for pictures as she walked along the concourse. She wanted to savor every moment. “Back in high school I was on my speech team, and my informative speech was on women in baseball,” said Hodel, a 43-year-old athletic trainer from Duluth, Minnesota. “So as soon as I saw this happening a couple years ago it was my goal to come.” That moment finally arrived, when Mo’ne Davis and the Los Angeles Queens rallied for a 10-8 victory over Denae Benites and the New York Heights in a rainy debut for the first women’s professional baseball league in the United States in almost 30 years. “Growing up I played softball,” said Koehler, 33, of St. Paul, Minnesota. “I wanted to play baseball because going professional was always like the dream, but there (were) no opportunities. ... So now that that’s actually an opportunity and something that girls can look up to, I think is amazing.” Maggie Foxx picked up the league’s first hit on a two-run single for Los Angeles in the first inning. Benites connected for the WPBL’s first homer, a two-run drive to center in the bottom of the fourth. The Queens trailed 8-4 before scoring two runs in the sixth and four more in wet and windy conditions for the final frame of the seven-inning contest. “When I walked on the field I started crying because of how much this moment meant and how much it meant to everybody,” Foxx said. “It means everything to us.” A steady rain fell for much of the day, soaking the 101-year-old home of the WPBL’s inaugural season. But much of the crowd of more than 4,000 started lining up hours before the game.
LEXIE KNIGHT / AP PHOTO
New York Heights’ Natsuki Yonetani, right, celebrates while Los Angeles Queens’ Amira Hondras, left, fails to tag her during the third inning of the inaugural Women’s Professional Baseball League game. The line for the main merchandise booth stretched all the way to the outfield along one side of the ballpark. “Having a daughter, it’s really exciting to give her exposure to female professional athletes,” said Antonietta Mabry, 47, an accountant from Columbus, Ohio. “It’s such a rare thing, so it’s really cool to give her some really positive female role models and examples.” Mabry was accompanied by her husband, Jason, and their daughter, Rosalee. Nine-year-old Mabry got her glove autographed by San Francisco second baseman Amanda Gianelloni. The Firebells and Boston Hunters — the league’s other two teams — play on Sunday. A couple of players from each team helped the grounds crew pull the tarp off the field after the rain subsided. “I’m excited to be here because I play softball and I really like it and it’s really cool that I get to see profession-
“When I walked on the field I started crying because of how much this moment meant.” Maggie Foxx al women play,” Rosalee Mabry said. The WPBL paid tribute to the past, present and future of women’s baseball during a rain-delayed pregame ceremony. The crowd cheered as the lineups for the Queens and Heights were announced. But the biggest ovation of the night was for 99-year-old Maybelle Blair, who threw a ceremonial first pitch to San Francisco’s Kelsie Whitmore, one of the biggest stars of the WPBL. Blair, who serves on a WPBL advisory board, played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, which ran from 1943-54 and inspired the
Dodgers land Cy Young ace Skubal in deadline deal Los Angeles sent three prospects to Detroit
“I’m excited to get down there and meet all those guys and chase three championships in a row.”
By Josh Dubow The Associated Press SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired the biggest prize on the trade deadline market, getting two-time reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers. Skubal got the news during the game and was emotional after the game as he prepared to leave the team that drafted him in 2018 and developed him into a star to join the two-time defending World Series champions. “I’m excited to be a Dodger,” he said. “I’m excited to get down there and meet all those guys and chase three championships in a row. That’s hard to do, so I’m so excited to be a part of that. It’s a lot of different emotions. Definitely kind of a roller coaster a little bit.” Skubal is the latest star to join the high-priced roster for the Dodgers that already has big-name players like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Mookie Betts. The Dodgers are in first place in the NL West and were already the favorites to become the first team to three-peat
Tarik Skubal
PAUL SANCYA / AP PHOTO
Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal walks to the dugout after leaving his final start with the team before getting traded. since the New York Yankees from 1998-2000 before adding Skubal. They began the season with a $323.3 million opening-day payroll for their 40-man roster and a $163.7 million tax for a $487.1 million total. They will pay Skubal about $9.5 million for the remainder of the season. The Tigers would receive three minor league prospects in right-handers River Ryan and Brady Smith and outfielder Zyhir Hope.
Skubal is eligible for free agency after the World Series. He has a $32 million salary, a record total in arbitration and is expected to sign a massive contract in the offseason. The 29-year-old lefty said in July it was his preference to finish the season with the Tigers and to compete for a World Series. Skubal took the loss in the decisive Game 5 of the division series against Cleveland in 2024 and then got a no-decision in a 15-inning loss to Seattle in Game 5 of the division series last year. He said it was “very tough” to leave the Tigers having fallen short of the goal of winning a title. “Ever since that ’24 Game 5, the failure that I experienced on the mound, I’ve used that as fuel to try and bring a World Series to the city of Detroit. I truly did,” he said. “That whole offseason I’ve never been more motivated and then go in and we lose Game 5 again. That failure kind of sparks some
1992 movie, “A League of Their Own.” “I think that’s pretty incredible,” Benites said. “Maybelle’s been sticking with us since the beginning of this journey. She’s paved a path for us, really. ... She’s a special person, and I’m so happy that she got to make it out here and do that today.” Lindsey Keirsey, 42, a high school history teacher in Fenton, Missouri, said she is obsessed with the AAGPBL and “A League of Their Own.” She attended the game with her husband, Drew, 43, and their four children, Hadley, 17, Nolan, 15, Elam, 11, and Abbott, 10. “We go to St. Louis Cardinals games all the time,” Hadley Keirsey said. “As much as I love baseball, I think it’s an amazing opportunity to see so many women be able to play and just break ground like that. Even though it’s just a sport, I think that if we can do things like this and let women play in sports like this, women can do so many more things.”
more motivation, just to dig deeper and see how good you can truly be. The goal was always to win a World Series for the city, for the organization that took a chance on me. It’s tough. I love all those guys in there. They’re some of my best friends.” The Tigers got off to a rough start and are currently 21⁄2 games out of the last wild-card spot in the American League. “It’s crazy. Going into the season, this isn’t what I planned on doing,” Skubal said. “But circumstances change, situations change, and I’m very appreciative of everything the Tigers have done for me.” “I’ve watched this guy rise to the top of the sport,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “He’s carried us a lot. I’ll forever be grateful that our paths crossed and the things that he did for this organization and for a couple of playoff teams. His presence, his work ethic, his example, his dominance. There’s so much to go through, it’s hard to capture in one quote or kind of one setting. But I’m very grateful that I was able to manage him for the time that I did.” Skubal is 7-5 this season with a 2.79 ERA and 116 strikeouts in 962⁄3 innings. He is 61-42 with a 3.04 ERA over seven seasons, all in Detroit. In two postseasons, Skubal is 2-1 with a 2.04 ERA in six starts. Skubal had a minimally invasive surgery May 6 to remove a loose body from his pitching elbow and returned to pitch on June 13. “The way the surgery went is exactly how it was supposed to go,” he said in July.
B3
Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 6, 2026
the stream
UNIVERSAL PICTURES / PARAMOUNT PICTURES / NETFLIX VIA AP
“You, Me & Tuscany,” left, the concert film “Billie Eilish — Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live),” center, and science fiction thriller “The Last House” are all streaming this week.
‘Ted Lasso,’ Billie Eilish, Stray Kids, ‘You, Me & Tuscany,’ ‘The Shards’ Ravyn Lenae drops “Blue Island” The Associated Press THE RETURN of “Ted Lasso” and Billie Eilish’s immersive concert film are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you. Also, among the streaming offerings worth your time this week: The rom-com “You, Me & Tuscany,” a new mini-album from Stray Kids and the new series based on Bret Easton Ellis’ “The Shards.” MOVIES TO STREAM A family is trapped inside their home for years in the new science-fiction thriller “The Last House,” streaming Friday on Netflix. Greta Lee and Wagner Moura play parents to two children who find themselves in the mysterious predicament in the Louis Leterrier-directed movie. James Cameron and Eilish share the directing credit on the concert film “Billie Eilish — Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live),” which hits Paramount+ on Thursday. In her review, AP music writer Maria Sherman wrote, “While no movie can serve as the perfect replica of a transformative live music experience … (this) works an immersive magic. Every seat is the best seat in the house in these shots.” Halle Bailey plays a professional house sitter who impulsively takes up residence in an Italian villa in the romantic comedy “You, Me & Tuscany,” streaming on Peacock starting Friday. Equal parts picturesque and improbable, the movie involves a case of mistaken identity and a lie about an engagement that gets in the way of a potentially real romance with Regé-Jean Page. Jocelyn Noveck, in her review for The Associated Press, wrote that it is “a movie as frothy and insubstantial as the foam on a nice cappuccino.” Colombian filmmaker Simón Mesa Soto won a prize from last year’s Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section for “A Poet,” about a failed writer named Oscar, that will be streaming on Mubi on Friday. AP film writer Jake Coyle, in his review, wrote, “While ‘A Poet’ might remind you of some other films — one would be Cord Jefferson’s ‘A merican Fiction’ — it is, like Oscar, steadfastly its own thing. Filmed on grainy 16mm, it’s even rough and dirty around the edges. … But if Soto’s
ANDY KROPA / INVISION VIA AP
Regé-Jean Page, from left, Halle Bailey, director Kat Coiro and Will Packer attend the premiere of the romantic comedy “You, Me & Tuscany” at Jazz at Lincoln Center on April 8 in New York.
ter City. He then resigned to return home to Kansas to spend more time with his son, Henry. Now, the Emmy-winning series resumes, with Lasso returning to the U.K. to coach AFC Richmond’s new women’s team. Hannah Waddingham, Brett Goldstein, Juno Temple, Jeremy Swift and Brendan Hunt return with Sudeikis for this continuation of the Lasso universe. Ryan Murphy has teamed up with “American Psycho” and “Less Than Zero” author Ellis to adapt Ellis’ autofiction novel “The Shards” for FX. Set in 1981 in Los Angeles, it stars Igby Rigney as a privileged high school senior named Bret, who finds himself both suspicious of and obsessed with a new student (played by Homer James Jigme Gere). At the same time, a serial killer is targeting teens in the area, and the kids are becoming increasingly paranoid. The show has a roster of rising talent including Kaia Gerber, Hayes Warner and Graham Campbell. It is available now on FX on Hulu. It’s gonna be a minute until Prime Video is ready to release “The Summer I Turned Pretty” movie or Season 2 of “Off Campus,” so it’s churning out the YA shows to keep viewers swooning in the meantime. “Sterling Point” is the latest offering from Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage (“The OC,” “Gossip Girl”), who are co-showrunners alongside buzzy up-and-coming director and actor Megan Park (“My Old Ass”). It’s about a teen named Annie who inherits her grandfather’s island after his death. The drama is streaming now. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY
RICHARD SHOTWELL / INVISION VIA AP
Above, Jason Sudeikis arrives at the season four premiere of “Ted Lasso” on July 27 in Los Angeles. Right, Ravyn Lenae’s third album, “Blue Island,” releases Aug. 7. film is loose and gritty, its satire is remarkably precise. This is a farce of creative life where the only pure artistic intention is a joke.” MUSIC TO STREAM The British girl-group greats FLO have found “Therapy at the Club.” At least, that is the promise — and title — of their sophomore album. Expect 16 tracks of R&B-pop bliss. If there’s any wisdom to be learned on the
ATLANTIC VIA AP
dance floor here, it is because their silky-smooth, three-part vocal harmonies delivered the message. It’s hard to underscore just how massive Ravyn Lenae’s 2024 single “Love Me Not” was in 2025. The swoony song went mega-viral on TikTok and became the centerpiece of a lot of online conversation, much of which positioned Lenae as contemporary R&B’s saving grace. But a one-hit wonder with only a dance trend to her name she is
not. “Blue Island,” her forthcoming third album, pushes boundaries — of genre, of expectation and public perception. SERIES TO STREAM Hard to believe, but it’s been three years since “Ted Lasso” concluded its third season on Apple TV. The lovably folksy soccer coach (played by Jason Sudeikis) led AFC Richmond to become No. 2 in the Premier League, behind Manches-
Dogs have been part of video games since 1984’s “Duck Hunt,” but you don’t often get to control them. Koo, the co-star of “Beast of Reincarnation,” wants to change that. The feisty mutt and his human pal Emma are fighting bloodthirsty mutants and killer robots in a postapocalyptic Japan in the year 4026. Emma swings a mean katana, but she can call upon Koo to leap in and take a bite out of an enemy — or just sniff out treasure. Fetch it now on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S or PC. In “Big Walk,” you and up to 11 friends are dropped on a mysterious island where your goal ... well, I’m not sure what your goal is. You can team up to solve puzzles. You can go for walks. You can sit and watch the sunset. Sometimes you’ll lose the ability to chat with your buddies, so you’ll need to figure out other ways to communicate. Australian developer House House is best known for 2019’s preposterous “Untitled Goose Game,” and its new release aims to transfer that cult hit’s sense of whimsical chaos to a co-op package. Begin the hike on PlayStation 5, Switch 2 and PC.
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Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 6, 2026
STATE & NATION
Jackson joins lawsuit against DHS, FEMA over funding threat States must comply with federal election rules to receive counterterrorism funding
“The last time they tried this, we took them to court and won. … I expect we’ll beat them — again.”
By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal RALEIGH — Last week, Attorney General Jeff Jackson joined a multistate lawsuit against the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security for alleged threats to withhold 20% of state counterterrorism funding. According to grant requirements issued by FEMA, states must provide proof of compliance with federal election rules to receive full funding. “FEMA is threatening our counterterrorism funding again,” said Jackson in a press release. “The last time they tried this, we took them to court and won. Now they’re trying again, and I expect we’ll beat them — again. “Hopefully they get the message: Don’t threaten our first responders unless you’re ready for a fight.” North Carolina received more than $17 million through counterterrorism and emergen-
Jeff Jackson, North Carolina attorney general
COURTESY @NCAGO / X
North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson, pictured last month, joined several states in a lawsuit against FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security. cy preparedness programs last year. The money funds bomb squad equipment, active shooter exercises, cyberattack resistance, hurricane and natural disaster response, flood risk mitigation, wildfire management and search-and-rescue operations. The election security compliance mandates include:
• States must submit plans to use equipment that accepts hand-marked paper ballots rather than electronic systems using barcodes and QR codes. • Jurisdictions must conduct a manual audit of at least 5% of all cast ballots after every federal election. • States must use the federal Systematic Alien Verification
for Entitlements (SAVE) database to verify the citizenship of every voter and remove verified noncitizens. • States must use the SAVE database to verify the citizenship of individuals working at polling places or operating election systems. • Jurisdictions must match the number of participating voters with the total number of ballots counted. At the center of the issue is DHS needing to verify proof of compliance with the rules. If DHS fails to do so, FEMA will withhold 20% of a recipient’s total Homeland Security Grant Program funding. Additionally, DHS has a condition allowing the cancellation or withdrawal of grants if projects do not align with federal priorities. According to the press release, the requirements for ad-
ministering elections would interfere with the authority of the North Carolina State Board of Elections and county boards. The mandates would also require voting equipment in 13 rural North Carolina counties to be replaced after they had been certified by the state board. Jackson argues that the federal government could pull money during a response, which would hinder states’ planning public safety operations. He additionally stated that FEMA has no authority over elections, and that FEMA and DHS are violating the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) and the Spending Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The APA regulates how U.S. government agencies make regulations, handle legal disputes and listen to public feedback. The Spending Clause gives Congress the power to collect taxes and spend money to pay debt, defend the country and provide for general welfare. Previously, FEMA and DHS were sued in November 2025 and December 2025 by a coalition of states over withheld emergency management, public safety and climate resiliency grants. More than $17 million for North Carolina was withheld, and the court ordered FEMA to reinstate $200 million in canceled climate resiliency grants for North Carolina. The court rejected the conditions DHS and FEMA put on the funds, stating they were not “consistent with Congressional intent or FEMA’s mission.”
FBI investigates as Michigan joins Minnesota in reporting cyberattacks on water systems The attacks come amid federal warnings about Iranian hackers targeting water systems By Michael Casey The Associated Press MICHIGAN on Saturday joined Minnesota in reporting cyberattacks on nine of the state’s water systems, but an official said all systems were operating “safely.” Earlier this week, authorities said cyberattacks targeted more than 30 water systems in Minnesota. The source of the attacks is being investigated, but they came amid warnings that Iranian hackers have been focused on such systems. The reports in Michigan surfaced after the state received a federal cyber alert Tuesday about attempts to tamper with operational technology at water systems. Soon after, the state received “a small number of reports from Michigan communities indicating activity consistent with what federal agencies described,” said Dale George, the director of communications at the state’s Department of
Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. He later said nine systems were impacted. “All systems continued to operate safely, issues were addressed by local operators, and there are no known impacts that posed a public health concern,” George said in a statement. The FBI, which is investigating, has not publicly identified a culprit, and a spokesperson declined to say last Thursday who the bureau thought might be responsible. The FBI, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and other agencies warned in an advisory last week that Iranian hackers have been targeting water and wastewater systems and the operational controls of other critical infrastructure sectors. “The FBI is aware of recent public reporting around Water and Wastewater (WWS) sectors,” the agency said in a statement Saturday. “The FBI and our interagency partners are fully engaged to protect critical infrastructure and we remain well-equipped to protect against cyber threats of all varieties.” Digital warfare has become ingrained in military conflict, and local water plants or healthcare facilities often lack
“All systems continued to operate safely, issues were addressed by local operators, and there are no known impacts that posed a public health concern.” ELLEN SCHMIDT / AP PHOTO
Cyberattacks on water systems are becoming more prevelent. the funds and know-how to install the latest software patches or take other security steps. That has made them a favorite target, both because of the relative ease of penetrating them and because of the panic such disruptions can cause. Iran’s interest in the operations of water systems inside the U.S. dates back years. In 2016, the Justice Department charged a group of Iranian hackers in connection with a cyberattack targeting a small dam near New York City. Minnesota IT Services said that as of last Thursday, there were no active requests from
Dale George, director of communications at Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy Minnesota communities for residents to modify usage of their drinking water. The state agency said most of the confirmed attacks involved technology that water systems use to remotely monitor and control equipment. It said that being impacted meant investigators confirmed there was malicious activity involving the system’s technology and didn’t mean every impacted community had their water service disrupted. For a few hours Monday, the city of Braham asked residents to minimize water use as it tried to determine why the wa-
ter plant was offline. The city of about 1,700 people, located about 70 miles north of Minneapolis, said in a news release that the water plant outage was due to a cyberattack, but it didn’t cause any issue with water quality. The city said the attackers shut down the operating controls that shut down the well and water treatment plant. That left the city for a time only able to provide residents with the water held in the water tower. In Plymouth, a city of about 80,000 located outside of Minneapolis, officials said on social media that their water infrastructure communications had been restored by Tuesday afternoon following a cyberattack. During a Cabinet meeting last Friday at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland, President Donald Trump claimed without evidence that recent cyberattacks in Minnesota were the fault of the state, including Democratic Gov. Tim Walz. Walz responded on social media, saying Trump “knows exactly who is responsible for this attack, and knows that other states were hit too.”
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VOLUME 11 ISSUE 24 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 | RANDOLPHRECORD.COM
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Randolph record THE RANDOLPH COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
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Hall-worthy Longtime Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly caps his football career Saturday when he joins 386 of his fellow players to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Above, one of the bigger highlights of his career was when he picked off Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson on the second play of a 2016 NFC divisional playoff game, running it back for a touchdown. Carolina won that game 31-24 and continued on to play the Broncos in Super Bowl 50. For more, turn to NSJ sports.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
Randolph County approves additional guidelines for data center development
Divided federal appeals court says Trump administration wrong to terminate climate funds
There are currently no applications for data centers in the county
Washington, D.C. A federal appeals court has ruled that the Trump administration improperly ended a multibillion-dollar program for clean energy projects. This decision supports a lower court’s ruling that nonprofits chosen to run the Biden-era effort should have access to the funds. The ruling is temporarily on hold, allowing the Environmental Protection Agency time to appeal to the Supreme Court. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, known as a “green bank,” was designed to finance small energy projects. The Trump administration accused the nonprofits of mismanagement and fraud, freezing the funds. The groups denied wrongdoing and sued, claiming legal violations.
Guard deployment to Washington, D.C., into 2029 will cost roughly $1.4B, estimate shows The extension of the National Guard deployment in Washington, D.C., until January 2029 will cost roughly $1.4 billion, according to a Defense Department estimate provided to Congress. The figure offers a glimpse of how much taxpayer money will be spent on a deployment that has been criticized by local officials as an infringement of their city’s autonomy and by Democrats who say it has militarized the streets of the nation’s capital.
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By Ryan Henkel Randolph Record ASHEBORO — The Randolph County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing regarding various UDO changes at its Aug. 3 meeting. While the majority of the changes pertained to updating language alongside new state statutes and guidelines, the county also updated some of its regulations related to data centers. “The purpose and size of these data centers vary tremendously, so we’re seeking to strengthen our existing language that we have in the UDO currently in the case that we do receive an application,”
said Planning Director Kim Heinzer. Some of the changes include setting a list of new requirements for applications, including: • The need for perimeter security to be included in site plans. • The use of a closed-loop water or liquid cooling system that will result in a minimum of water consumption. • Must have an existing connection to an electric grid prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy • A noise impact study must be done before and after the completion of the project • Forbidding the use of on-site power generators outside of an emergency outage and routine testing The new UDO changes also set forth guidelines for the potential decommissioning of a data processing facility and sets the responsibility for the remov-
“As the county, we want to get those guardrails up in place in advance.” Commissioner Hope Haywood al of all potentially hazardous materials as well as the financial burden of decommissioning, which must be put forth up-front along with 10% contingency, on the applicant. “The current county ordinance allows for data centers in Randolph County,” said Board Chair Darrell Frye. “So it’s not about whether we have them or not, it’s how they are addressed, how they are required and what requirements are placed upon them. We don’t have an application for one right now.” Following the hearing, the board unanimously approved the changes.
Asheboro City Schools to open academy with virtual component There will be enrollment periods prior to the launch in January By Bob Sutton Randolph Record ASHEBORO — A virtual academy for students in Asheboro City Schools is being put together. It’s called Blue Comet Global Academy, and it will be open for students in grades 9-12 beginning in January. The idea is to offer flexibility. “Every student deserves an educational experience that meets their unique needs, interests, and goals,” district superintendent Aaron Woody said. “Blue Comet Global Academy expands the opportu-
nities we can offer students while staying true to what defines Asheboro City Schools — strong relationships, innovative learning, and an unwavering commitment to helping every student succeed.” The blueprint for the academy is a combination of remote instruction and in-person experiences. Marian Gordon has been named the school system’s director of global education. She has been an assistant principal at the high school. According to the district, students will have personalized support, collaborative learning and access to signature programs. The district’s announcement says that Blue Comet Global Academy is intentionally designed to keep students
“Every student deserves an educational experience that meets their unique needs, interests, and goals.” Aaron Woody, district superintendent
connected through meaningful interactions with teachers and peers, project-based learning and enriching in-person experiences throughout the year. Still to come are enrollment information and application details. The academy is expected to expand to grades 6-8 in the future.
“We need some guardrails in place,” said Commissioner Hope Haywood. “In the places they’ve declared moratoriums, most often, there are no guardrails in place. So if a data center comes and they then try to put guardrails in place, it’s too late. They’re set up for a big-time lawsuit. As the county, we want to get those guardrails up in place in advance.” The board also authorized the purchase of three ambulances at a total cost of around $863,000, a $280,000 contract with HH Architecture for design, bidding and construction administration of a new welcome center at the Ag Center and the expenditure of around $95,000 in law enforcement restricted funds for the purchase of body and in-car cameras for the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office. The Randolph County Board of Commissioners will next meet Sept. 1.
The district has launched an online survey seeking information from parents and district residents. Information gathered from the survey will be used in the development and planning for the academy. This announcement from Asheboro City Schools came slightly more than a year after the Randolph County School System closed its virtual option for students. In spring 2025, the RCSS Board of Education flip-flopped on a much-debated topic of whether to keep The Virtual Academy at Randolph in operation. Based on budget concerns and declining enrollment in the virtual academy, the board finally accepted Superintendent Stephen Gainey’s recommendation to close the academy after an initial vote a few weeks earlier didn’t generate enough support to close it. Operating the virtual academy came at a cost of more than $1.2 million annually, according to figures provided by RCSS.
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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
THURSDAY
8.6.26
Randolph Drugs, firearms seized during arrest at Sophia home Guide A man is facing multiple charges stemming from the investigation
“Join the conversation”
North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365)
15
Randolph Record staff SOPHIA — A man faces drugs and weapons charges after a raid on a home in Sophia last week. The Randolph County Sheriff’s Office charged Christopher Barnett, 53, with felony
Firearms seized from the investigation possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana, felony maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substance,
felony possession of a firearm by a felon and numerous other charges. The Randolph County Sheriff’s Office vice narcotics enforcement team spearheaded the investigation in which there were 15 firearms plus ammunition and 1.9 pounds of marijuana seized. Following his arrest at a house on Old Flint Hill Road, Barnett was held without bond.
Randolph Record (ISSN 2768-5268) Trip Hoffend, Publisher Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers Cory Lavalette, Senior Editor Jordan Golson, Local News Editor 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 Published each Thursday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 919-663-3232 RANDOLPHRECORD.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, NC and at additional mailing offices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607
CRIME LOG July 27
July 29
• Tony Dwayne Mashburn, 26, of High Point, was arrested by RCSO for misdemeanor larceny.
• James Steven Shoffner, 60, of Liberty, was arrested by RCSO for assault on a child under 12.
• Miranda Lynette Osborne, 31, of High Point, was arrested by RCSO for misdemeanor larceny.
• Brittany Ly Barber, 36, of Franklinville, was arrested by Asheboro PD for manufacturing, selling, delivering or possessing a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school; possession of methamphetamine; and possession of drug paraphernalia, and other charges.
• Donnie Ray Bell, 57, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for felony possession of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance on prison or jail premises and possession of drug paraphernalia. • Angel Luis Custodio-Candelaria, 30, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for misdemeanor larceny and possession of stolen goods/property. • Michael Eric Garner, 41, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for habitual larceny and possession of stolen goods/ property. • Gregory Allen Knight, 50, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for second-degree trespass. • William Neil Young, 35, of Sophia, was arrested by RCSO for possession of methamphetamine.
• Benigno Arenas Jr., 18, of Irving, was arrested by Asheboro PD for driving while impaired. • Meaghan Anah Staggs, 29, of Archdale, was arrested by RCSO for resisting a public officer. • Forrest Scott Allred, 31, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for violating a domestic violence protective order.
CALL OR TEXT 336-629-7588
THURSDAY AUG. 6 HI 88 LOW 64 PRECIP 4%
FRIDAY AUG. 7 HI 89 LOW 67 PRECIP 4%
SATURDAY AUG. 8 HI 89 LOW 70 PRECIP 24%
SUNDAY AUG. 9 HI 84 LOW 70 PRECIP 70%
• Brandon Michael Cooke, 30, of Franklinville, was arrested by RCSO for possession of methamphetamine. • Ronald Brandon Lee Golden, 31, of Archdale, was arrested by RCSO for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.
July 28
WEEKLY FORECAST SPONSORED BY
• Kurtis Steven Barber, 40, of Franklinville, was arrested by NC P&P for manufacturing, selling, delivering or possessing a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school; possession of methamphetamine; and possession of drug paraphernalia, and other charges.
• Christopher Niles Barnett, 53, of Sophia, was arrested by RCSO for possession of a firearm by a felon; possessing, selling or buying a firearm with an altered serial number; and exposing a child to a controlled substance, and other charges. • Jodi Daniel Barr, 31, of Whitsett, was arrested by Archdale PD for possession of methamphetamine and assault and battery, and other charges. • Ricardo Bautista, 38, of Denton, was arrested by Davidson Correctional Center for violating a domestic violence protective order. • Curtis Landon DeJong, 64, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for making a harassing phone call. • Kimberly Ladawn Ellison, 39, of Ramseur, was arrested by RCSO for defrauding a drug or alcohol test. • Allan Ulises Morgan, 27, of Eagle Springs, was arrested by RCSO for fleeing to elude arrest with a motor vehicle, felony larceny of a motor vehicle and possession of a stolen motor vehicle, and other charges.
• Daniel Stephen Kirkman, 37, of Staley, was arrested by RCSO for felony conspiracy, aiding and abetting felony larceny and possession of a catalytic converter, and other charges. • Robert Lee Nunley, 57, of Trinity, was arrested by RCSO for assault inflicting serious injury with a minor present, breaking and entering to terrorize or injure and simple assault, and other charges. • Jason Shepard Stephens, 46, of Liberty, was arrested by RCSO for larceny of a firearm, possession of a stolen firearm and obtaining property by false pretense, and other charges. • Cody Wayne Lowe, 34, of Randleman, was arrested by Randleman PD for assault by strangulation and interfering with emergency communications. July 30 • Jordan Tylee Alston, 28, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for misdemeanor larceny, possession of stolen goods/ property and possession or sale of non-tax-paid alcoholic beverages. • Jessica Lauren Brigman, 32, of Garner, was arrested by RCSO for reckless driving to endanger, driving on a revoked license and speeding. • Andrea Rae Brooks, 43, of Trinity, was arrested by RCSO for interfering with an electronic monitoring device.
assault on a pregnant woman and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. • Zachary Dillon Creech, 32, of Thomasville, was arrested by Asheboro PD for injury to real property and defacing a public building. • Eric Brince Epperson, 46, of Johnson City, was arrested by Asheboro PD for simple possession of a controlled substance, misdemeanor larceny and possession of marijuana paraphernalia, and other charges.
TUESDAY AUG. 11 HI 90 LOW 71 PRECIP 24%
WEDNESDAY AUG. 12 HI 92 LOW 72 PRECIP 24%
Aug. 6 Operation School Supplies The Randolph County Sheriff’s Office sets up outside the Randleman Walmart to collect donated school supplies for county students in need. A second collection stop is scheduled Aug. 10 at the Asheboro Walmart. Walmart Supercenter Randleman
Thrifty Thursday Senior Matinee: “Secondhand Lions” 1 p.m.
• Elias Soto Hipolito, 50, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for domestic criminal trespass.
The Sunset Theatre screens the 2003 rural comedy-drama “Secondhand Lions” at a discounted ticket price for senior audiences. Call 336-626-1240 for information.
• Alejandra Padilla Ochoa, 39, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
Sunset Theatre 234 Sunset Ave. Asheboro
• Alexis Brian Perez-Fuentes, 21, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. July 31 • Joseph Kane Frank, 38, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for going armed to the terror of the people, assault on a government official or employee and carrying a concealed weapon, and other charges. • Kenneth Earl Gay, 49, of Pleasant Garden, was arrested by Randleman PD for exploitation of a disabled or elderly person through a position of trust, obtaining property by false pretense and possession of drug paraphernalia. • Jeremiah Waitsel Rabon, 23, of Trinity, was arrested by RCSO for taking indecent liberties with a child and felony assault on an individual with a disability. • Charles Lee Seech, 30, of Randleman, was arrested by NC P&P for felony larceny of a motor vehicle. Aug. 1 • Susan Yvette Johnson, 50, of Randleman, was arrested by Asheboro PD for felony possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and misdemeanor larceny, and other charges. • Darrell Eugene Lambe, 74, of Randleman, was arrested by RCSO for simple assault. • Jeffrey Craig Nixon, 54, of Sophia, was arrested by RCSO for felony possession of a controlled substance; and maintaining a vehicle, dwelling or place for controlled substances. • James Franklin Oxendine, 46, of Thomasville, was arrested by RCSO for second-degree trespass and littering not more than 10 pounds.
• Charles Daniel Tarlton Crawford, 18, of Sophia, was arrested by RCSO for assault on a female,
MONDAY AUG. 10 HI 86 LOW 70 PRECIP 38%
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Randolph County:
Aug. 7 Sunset Film Festival The three-day international film festival screens roughly 100 titles — predominantly short films and North Carolina productions — with opening-night networking, live entertainment, Q&A panels with filmmakers, a formal awards ceremony, a comedy hour and a cult-classic double feature on Saturday. Day passes are $15 to $20; a three-day pass is $45. Available at sunsettheatre. thundertix.com or by calling 336-626-1240. Sunset Theatre 234 Sunset Ave. Asheboro
Aug. 8 Back to School Extravaganza 1 p.m. Community organizations including Valores NC host a free family event featuring bounce houses, face painting, live music, food trucks and hot dogs, plus resource booths connecting families with local services. Eastside Park 627 Brewer St. Asheboro
Aug. 9 Sunday Night Summer Concert Series: Phatt City 6 p.m.
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The City of Asheboro’s free outdoor concert series continues with Phatt City performing in Bicentennial Park. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs; food trucks will be on-site. Bicentennial Park Asheboro
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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | VICTOR JOECKS
The inadequacy of opposing socialism
It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back.
DON’T ASSUME socialism’s inevitable failures will stop it from spreading. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced that his government-run grocery stores will offer products at a 30% discount. The appeal of this plan is obvious. Everyone would like to pay less for milk, eggs and meat. That this plan won’t work is equally obvious to anyone who understands basic economics. Unfortunately, that excludes many New Yorkers and college graduates. Take a look at the details of Mamdani’s plan. He doesn’t want the city to run these stores. He’s seeking proposals from “qualified grocers or firms to serve as operators” of the stores. “The City sets the mission, the standards and the store design; experienced third-party operators run the stores day to day under those requirements,” a release from Mamdani’s office states. Further, “operators will be required to provide family-sustaining wages and benefits and commit to a Labor Peace Agreement so that workers who want to organize can do so without interference.” That Mamdani doesn’t trust NYC’s bureaucracy to run his grocery stores is smart, but it also shows why the government shouldn’t run grocery stores. Mamdani may want to seize the means of production, but he appears to recognize that government doesn’t do a great job of producing. His premise is also absurd. Most
grocery stores have profit margins of 1% to 3%. Mamdani wants an operator to run his stores with 30% discounts on major items and to allow a union to inflate worker pay. Maybe Mamdani can hire fairies to stock the shelves with products delivered by unicorns. But Mamdani doesn’t expect these operators to lower prices by 30%. The city’s request for proposals states the city “will provide financial support to the Operator(s) to mitigate operating deficits attributable to discounted Core Basket sales and enable cost-effective program delivery.” This subsidy would be in addition to NYC taxpayers paying $70 million to build five stores and then cover their rent and property taxes. Mamdani’s grocery store scheme won’t prove the superiority of socialism because he’s not even trying to lower costs. He’s content to disguise them with crony capitalism. It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back. If the grocery stores are “successful,” they’ll drive nearby privately run stores out of business, which will erode the tax base. That will require more government-subsidized grocery stores, driving more grocery stores out of business and further reducing tax revenues. This spiral will continue until New Yorkers come to their electoral senses or run out of toilet paper — proof a
country has fully implemented socialism. These are important arguments to make. But they aren’t enough. Mamdani gives his followers specifics that create a clear narrative. According to him, the problem is high prices — the villains are rich people, and the solution is government-run grocery stores. Now, Mamdani is wrong — very wrong — on the details. But conservatives need to imitate his model. For instance, electricity prices are too high — the villain is the left’s push for expensive and unreliable green energy, and the solution is ending federal subsidies for wind and solar. States also need to repeal their renewable portfolio standards. Car prices are too high — the villain is anti-fossil fuel regulations pushed by Democrats, and the solution is requiring Congress to authorize any restrictions on gas-powered vehicles. Now one challenge for conservatives is that real solutions can take years to work, while socialists promise quick fixes and gimmicks. But by identifying the root cause of a problem, conservatives make a much stronger argument. It isn’t enough to point out the many problems with socialist proposals. Conservatives also need to provide villains and solutions. Victor Joecks is a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI
Fauci’s cowardly Fifth Amendment evasion
The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive.
THERE’S NOTHING inherently wrong with invoking the Fifth Amendment. The perception that anyone who pleads the Fifth to protect themselves from self-incrimination is only hiding guilt is wrong. Innocent people are often intimidated or tricked by those in power into implicating themselves. Others might get nervous under oath and worry about misspeaking under pressure. Former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Anthony Fauci, who appeared before the Senate committee investigating the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is not one of those people. There is some legal question as to whether a person who has received a pardon loses his ability to plead the Fifth since the assertion is predicated on shielding them from future crimes, like lying to Congress. Fauci, after all, could admit to personally creating COVID-19 in a lab and then spreading it himself, and there is still nothing the government could do to him. Former President Joe Biden gave him an unprecedented pardon for any federal offenses related to any pandemic-era actions between Jan. 1, 2014, and Jan. 19, 2025. The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive. It’s difficult to imagine anything that could incentivize criminality and abuse of power with the government more than knowing a president will give you a get-out-of-jail-free card at the end of a term. The entire point of the hearings, Fauci
contends, is to trap him. Fauci says Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), who released a cache of diary entries and emails earlier this week, says he is obsessed with prosecuting him, evident by his “repeated slanderous comments” and release of unredacted personal documents, which were aimed at “embarrassing and intimidation.” Perhaps. But Fauci, who was employed by the federal government for 54 years, director of the NIAID for 38 years, has likely delivered thousands of speeches and appeared in front of Congress somewhere around 250 times. If he can’t offer clear and honest testimony under oath, who can? The fact is that being truthful under oath would mean explaining several things: Why, though Fauci knew COVID-19’s fatality rate was likely at 0.2%-0.3% and “acting like a bad influenza,” he told Congress that it was “10 times more lethal than the seasonal flu.” Why, after privately expressing frustration regarding the efficacy of lockdowns in flattening the curve, Fauci not only advocated closing businesses and schools nationally but framed anyone who was skeptical as villains. Why Fauci publicly contended that he had absolutely nothing to do with school closings yet privately took credit for frightening the mayor of New York, the governor of California and others into shutting down their states. Why Fauci privately acknowledged that the wet market in Wuhan “was not the source” of the virus but the “amplifier”
and yet continued contending, with great scientific certitude, that the virus jumping from bats to humans was “absolutely totally compatible” with the available evidence, but the theory of the virus being created in the Wuhan Institute of Virology was a “very, very, very, very remote possibility.” Committee Democrats, incidentally, declined to rebut any Republican criticisms aimed at Fauci or speak on any of the problems of the pandemic response. Many of these Democrats had not treated Fauci’s word as indisputable truth and smeared anyone who questioned his authoritarian remedies as if they were members of a death cult. Instead, Democrats used their time to highlight the spread of measles cases under anti-vaccine activist and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. It’s an important topic. The problem, though, is that Fauci and other public health officials who lied and manipulated the public under the banner of “science” have a lot to do with the collapse of trust in the institutions that help fight measles outbreaks. Failing to get any accountability or full transparency from those who botched the COVID pandemic response only fuels more suspicion and skepticism about vaccines. And, make no mistake, avoiding accountability and transparency are the real reasons Fauci took the Fifth. David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
US companies stepping up to cut reliance on China for critical minerals used in key weapons The transition will likely take years despite Pentagon funding and tight deadlines
Some concerns remain. The U.S. is dependent on imports of the critical mineral tungsten, with China controlling roughly 80% of the global mine supply and an even larger share of processing, according to Brodie Sutherland, CEO of Patriot Critical Minerals Corp. Sutherland, whose company seeks to explore and mine tungsten in the U.S., is concerned that America will not be able to get by without China-sourced tungsten after a Pentagon-imposed deadline of Jan. 1, 2027. Efforts to ramp up U.S. production will take years, he said, and in the meantime, the Pentagon and its defense contractors will need to rely on existing inventories, expanded recycling and limited non-China sources.
By Didi Tang, Josh Funk and Rodrique Ngowi The Associated Press EXETER, N.H. — Tucked inside a New Hampshire office park, a small refinery zaps mining waste with electricity to tease out critical minerals needed for key U.S. weapons systems, including missiles used in the Iran war. It can play a part in helping America break the chokehold China has on processing critical minerals, but it will take up to a year and a half to build a new factory as the Trump administration pushes to expand domestic production. The company, Phoenix Tailings, recently got a $500 million loan from the Pentagon to ramp up its work, after starting out eight years ago as a backyard lab seeking a cleaner metal-refining method. It’s just the latest critical minerals company the government has backed. The task that workers carry out in heat-resistant suits and sealed face masks has become more urgent as the Iran conflict draws down key munitions such as Tomahawk cruise missiles and THAAD interceptors. While the White House is demanding military contractors speed up production, it’s also imposing stricter rules banning them from sourcing critical minerals from China. “It will be a tall order and a challenge to replenish these stocks and scale up in the timeframe needed to meet defense demand and regulations,” said Anthony Balladon, chief commercial officer and a co-founder of Phoenix Tailings. He said the company is working hard to boost capacity. Although the U.S. is quickening its pace to build domestic supplies of critical minerals free of control from its most formidable rival, it will likely take years for companies across the industry to build new mines and boost production of the high-powered magnets essential in many high-tech applications. Extracting some of the hard-to-pronounce elements from existing mine waste can help satisfy the growing demand in the meantime, but it will likely take several companies to do that. Critical minerals industry has big plans, but it will take time to ramp up Phoenix Tailings taps waste from traditional mining as well as recycled magnets and disk drives as raw materials, work-
PHOTOS BY RODRIQUE NGOWI / AP PHOTO
A worker drives a forklift at the Phoenix Tailings refinery July 22 in Exeter, New Hampshire.
The Iran war and Trump’s China order create pressure and opportunity
ing to counter China in processing where it has the strongest hold on the supply chain. The company based in the Boston-area city of Woburn, Massachusetts, plans to build a bigger facility to extract and produce critical metals needed in not only defense but also the aerospace and automotive industries. “We call it the freedom facility because, ultimately, the purpose of this is to ensure that the entire Western Hemisphere, the United States and its allies are free of Chinese influence within the rare-earth space,” Balladon said. On a recent afternoon, two technicians in heat-resistant hazmat suits were operating an apparatus of cylinders, tubes, funnels and control panels set up on a platform with bright yellow railings. A chemical process involving electricity removes oxygen and turns the material into a grayish metal that can be used to make the extremely strong permanent magnets used in fighter jets, missiles, radar systems and drones. The metals that Phoenix Tailings refines and other critical minerals play “an outsized role” in defense systems, Balladon said. A $150 million weapons system won’t work if it’s missing critical minerals that may be worth only $20,000 to $30,000, he said. The defense sector is particularly reliant on the metal samarium and needs 50 to 100 tons each year, but U.S. capacity is very limited, he said. Phoenix Tailings is among the few companies capable of producing the final metal, according to Balladon, but its capacity is only about 440 pounds a year. He said the company will scale up to about 5 tons in the next three months but that it will be next year or 2028 before
The need to increase production has become more urgent as renewed fighting with Iran digs into the U.S. military’s already diminished stockpiles of advanced missile interceptors, including Patriots and THAADs, according to a recent analysis from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington, D.C., think tank. It also has raised concerns that the military would have diminished firepower in any potential future conflict with China. CSIS warned in May that it could take at least three years to replenish stockpiles of Tomahawks, Patriots and THAADs, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense interceptors. At the same time, President Donald Trump has announced stricter controls on defense contractors sourcing critical materials from China. “It is the policy of the United States that not only the finished equipment deployed by our military, but also the critical materials and components necessary to manufacture, maintain, sustain, and repair that equipment, are sourced domestically or from allied nations,” the July 20 executive order says. Lockheed Martin, which makes THAADs and many other weapons systems, said, “We continuously assess the global rare earth supply chain to ensure access to critical materials that support our customers’ missions.” Several other major U.S. defense contractors, including Raytheon Technologies and Northrop Grumman, didn’t respond to requests for comment. Balladon, of Phoenix Tailings, was confident in U.S. companies. “Ultimately, with the right support and partners across the industry, we think we can make it happen,” he said.
A worker uses a drill with a metal brush attachment to polish an ingot of rare earth metal known as neodymium-praseodymium oxide. it reaches its goal of 120-ton capacity. Another U.S. magnet maker looks to France for raw materials Arnold Magnetic Technologies for years relied on China for samarium to produce the extremely strong, stable-in-high-temperatures magnet that goes into precision-guided missiles such as Tomahawks. That doesn’t work anymore. For Arnold, the solution to getting the critical minerals it needs has come from a relic of Europe’s past rare-earth industry — abandoned mining dirt in the French city of La Rochelle. Solvay, a Belgium-headquartered chemical company, stopped separating and processing rare earths from the mined dirt in the 2000s. That was when China was building up most of the world’s processing capacity with a determination to dominate the industry. China weaponized that
near-monopoly last year by choking off its flow of processed critical materials and forcing the U.S. government to back off during a trade war. Solvay then restarted work and has added other rare earths this year, including samarium. “This ramp-up is driven by several factors: rapidly growing demand for permanent magnets, increased geopolitical focus on supply chain security, and strong customer demand in Europe and the United States for more diversified, resilient and traceable sources of supply,” a Solvay spokesperson said. For Arnold Magnetic Technologies, paying more to get its supply from Solvay instead of China has not been a deal-breaker, because the samarium-cobalt magnets it makes account for only a small cost in a weapon system, said Arnold CEO Matt Blake. “They are not the absolute cost drivers,” he said. Plus, the company says the surge in demand for magnets has worked in its favor.
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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
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obituaries
Jean Elizabeth Bergemann Nichols Dec. 28, 1936 – July 28, 2026 Jean Elizabeth Bergemann Nichols, 89, of Asheboro, died Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at her home. A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., Monday, August 3, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, 908 Albemarle Road, Asheboro, with Charles Reeder officiating. Burial will be at Randolph Memorial Park. Born in Wilmington, NC on December 28, 1936, Jean was the daughter of Oscar Bergemann and Evelyn Sowell Bergemann. She retired from Belk after several years. She was a member of Fellowship Baptist Church and attended Covenant Christian
Angela Lamar Frye Nov. 12, 1964 – July 29, 2026 With hearts full of love, sorrow, and joy we announce the passing of Angela Lamar Frye, who was surrounded by her loving family as she was peacefully called to her heavenly home on July 29, 2026, at the age of 61. A remarkable woman of extraordinary beauty, strength, determination, and grace, she lived as an unyielding force of nature – the most genuine soul whose love, compassion, and beautiful spirit left a lasting impression on everyone she knew. Born in Asheboro, North Carolina to Darrell and Carolyn Lamar, Angela immediately brought joy, tenacity, and laughter into the world. She was intelligent and hardworking, as she routinely participated in countless extracurricular sports, plays, charity events, as well as other engagement clubs throughout her life. After graduating from Southwest
Dwight Franklin Jones Sept. 26, 1939 – Aug. 1, 2026 Dwight Franklin Jones, 86, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at his home surrounded by his family. Dwight was a native of Chatham County. He was a member of Beulah Baptist Church and a believer of the Lord Jesus Christ. He served as a Deacon and Trustee. Dwight owned and operated Dwight Jones Grocery & Gas. After retirement, he worked at Routh’s Grocery in Bennett. He also enjoyed selling produce. He was a kind, merciful man who enjoyed talking and picking with people. Dwight helped start the Bennett Fire Department and
Church. She enjoyed tending to her flowers, watching her hummingbirds, and feeding the birds, deer, and squirrels. In her spare time, she enjoyed shopping and spending time with her family, who she loved dearly. In addition to her parents, Jean was preceded in death by her husband, Robert “Bob” Nichols; and brother, Oscar Bergemann. Surviving are her daughter, Teresa Nichols Betenbaugh and husband Timothy Betenbaugh of Asheboro; sons, Tim Nichols (Nancy) of Randleman, Michael Leroy Nichols of Asheboro; sisters, Adrana West of Denton, Cheryl Miller of High Point; grandchildren, Joshua Nichols (Angenette), Daniel Bellus, Aaron Nichols (Stephanie), Corey Nichols (Meghan); and six greatgrandchildren. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, August 2, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home. Jean had a very charitable heart, and the family kindly asks if you can honor her spirit by making donations to Hospice of Randolph, 416 Vision Drive, Asheboro, NC 27203; St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959; Randolph SPCA, 300 W. Bailey Street, Asheboro, NC 27203; or to a charity of the donor’s choice.
High School and College at UNC Greensboro, Angela dedicated her life to the pursuit of knowledge in the field of Computer Science and later Education. By nature, she was an inspirational teacher who exemplified excellence, passion, creativity, kindness, empathy, patience, and adoration for her students and colleagues. Angela retired after 22 years of dedicated and award-winning teaching in computer business courses. Following retirement, she was able to focus on more time with family, gardening, trips to the beach and lake, boat rides, as well as beloved fishing with her husband. Angela met the love of her life, Darrell Frye, in high school, and the rest was history. They went on to be married for 40 years together. Angela was a fiercely devoted wife and mother, raising two beautiful children. She was the foundation of our family, a constant support, and biggest role model. Angela is survived by her cherished parents, Darrell and Carolyn Lamar; husband, Darrell Frye; her children, Amelia Frye Leviste and Andrew Frye; her sister, Amy Hayes (husband Mark); along with her nieces and nephews. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and friendship that will live on in all those who knew and loved her. The family welcomes friends for a celebration of life with a visitation on Monday, August 3, 2026, at her lifelong church, Sawyersville Wesleyan in Asheboro, NC, beginning at 12 pm.
was a charter member. He served for 30 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, Clina and Leona Phillips Jones; a sister, Geneva Saunders and brothers, Wayne Jones, Ray Jones, Howard Jones and Gary Jones. He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Ruby Garner Jones; daughters, Abigail Jones Beard, Anita Jones Thomas and Jan Jones White and husband, Brad; grandchildren, Clay White, Nolan White (Abbie), Chase Beard, Brianna Beard, Kayley Thomas, Macy Thomas and Lydia Thomas (Justin). The body will lie in repose from 1:00-5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 at Joyce-Brady Chapel. The funeral will be at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at Beulah Baptist Church. The family will receive friends in the fellowship hall following the service. The family would like to express a special thanks to Liberty Home and Care Hospice. Tri-County Ruritan Club, Chatham County Council on Aging Services, volunteers, friends and neighbors. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Beulah Baptist Church Building Fund, 8454 Howard Mill Rd., Bennett, NC 27208.
Hazel Hamilton Anderson Jan. 1, 1926 – July 30, 2026 Hazel Hamilton Anderson passed away on July 30, 2026, at Hillcrest Convalescent Center in Durham. Hazel was born in Pearson, Georgia, on January 1, 1926, to Andrew Jackson Hamilton and Callie Staggs Hamilton. The youngest of nine children, Hazel spent her early years in South Georgia before moving to Columbus, Georgia, where she attended Columbus High School. She attended Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College for one year and obtained her B.S. in home economics from the University of Georgia in 1945. While working as a home demonstration agent in Blairsville, Georgia, she met Hugh Anderson, from nearby Hayesville, North Carolina, and they married in 1947. In 1951, after Hugh completed his education, they moved to Asheboro, where they would live until Hugh’s death in 2007, and Hazel’s move to assisted living in Durham in 2024. Hazel and Hugh built the first house on the eastern end of Parkview Street in 1953 and made fast friends with the other
Martha Apple Pate Aug. 8, 1934 – Aug. 1, 2026 Martha Apple Pate, 91, of Asheboro, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026, in her home surrounded by family. She was preceded in death by her husband, George Thomas Pate Sr., and was the beloved mother of Lois Ann Bagley and Tommy Pate. She is also deeply loved by her son-in-law, Rass, and daughter-in-law, Ginger, along with her five grandchildren, Carrie and her husband Jacob, Emily and her husband James, Missy and her husband-to-be Aaron, Casey and George and his wife Mackenzie and five greatgrandchildren, Smith, Zack, Maddie, Believe, and Olivia, who knew her as Mamaw.
Sondra Kay Coble Jan. 17, 1948 – July 29, 2026 Sondra Kay Coble, 78, of Little River, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on July 29, 2026. A graveside service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Oaklawn Cemetery, Asheboro, with Pastor Michael Spector officiating. Born on January 17, 1948, in Asheboro, North Carolina, Sondra lived a life centered on faith, family, and love. She found
young families who built their houses there in the 1950s and 60s. They loved to entertain and hosted many parties in their basement rec room, and for several years they regularly brought in an instructor to help them and their friends perfect their dance moves. Hazel was an avid tennis player for many years until vision loss forced her retirement at age 91. She played on the local USTA team and played in doubles tournaments all over the country with her partner and best friend, the late Martha Norman, winning a national title in their age group in the Senior Olympics in 1993. Hazel and Martha were mentors and role models for the younger Asheboro tennis players, and in 2017 the Asheboro City Council named a court in the Tennis Center in their honor. Hazel was predeceased by her parents, all eight siblings and her husband Hugh Anderson. She is survived by sons, Craig Anderson (Dee) of Hillsborough, Roger Anderson of Bellevue, Nebraska, and Paul Anderson (Patsy) of Mission Viejo, California, grandchildren, Megan Anderson and Matthew Anderson, greatgranddaughters Reagan and Savannah and many nieces and nephews. Hazel’s family will receive visitors on August 7, 2026, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Pugh Funeral Home in Asheboro, and will host a celebration of her life at First United Methodist Church of Asheboro on August 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. The family wishes to thank the staff and residents at Brookdale Senior Solutions and Hillcrest for their kindness and care.
Martha was a faithful member of First Presbyterian Church of Asheboro, North Carolina, where she was the chief biscuit maker for Wednesday night suppers. Her biscuits were legendary! Martha trusted in Jesus as her Lord and Savior. She found strength in the words of Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd: I shall not want.” She loved opening her home for Thanksgiving and Christmas gatherings. Her kitchen was famous for the best green beans, corn, and Thanksgiving dressing. She will be remembered for her faith and love of family. Special thanks to her caregivers...Denise, Joan, Penny, Jasmine, Holly, Taylor, Rosa, Stacey, Cassie, Cynthia, and Kathy. Also special thanks to Gentiva Hospice and their nurses, Charley, Ashley, Teresa, Maureen, and Kristen. All of the folks became part of the family! In lieu of flowers, please donate to First Presbyterian Church, 420 W. Walker Street, Asheboro, North Carolina, 27203, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at 11:00 am at the Randolph Memorial Park Mausoleum with Pastor Brian Rummage officiating.
great joy in spending time with her family and her fur babies, Annie and Coco. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Beth Eckstein (Scott), Alison Coble, and Renee Harper (Rick); her grandchildren, Amber, Anthony, Kristopher, Caleb, Andi, Hannah, Alex, Elijah, Luke, Molly, and Ashley; 11 greatgrandchildren; and many other family members and friends who will cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her beloved son, Ryan Coble; her granddaughter, Rebekah Eckstein; and her parents, Elwood and Lera Flowers. Sondra will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her love for her family, her compassion for animals, and the kindness she showed to everyone she met. Her legacy of love and devotion will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Though she will be deeply missed, her family finds comfort in knowing she is now in the presence of her Savior, Jesus Christ, whom she loved and faithfully followed.
Howard Eugene Wright June 22, 1941 – July 31, 2026 Howard Eugene Wright, age 85, of Asheboro passed away on July 31, 2026, at his home. Mr. Wright was born in Asheboro on June 22, 1941, to Talmer Howard and Bertha Stout Wright. Howard retired from Asheboro Plumbing & Heating. He was a good Christian man and was a member of Bethel Friends Meeting. Howard was a kind and patient gentleman who was always willing to help anyone in need. He loved building grandfather clocks and hunting rabbits with his beagles. Howard was always willing to teach others his trade and loved to square dance with his wife. Howard was a good and loving husband to Carol and a loving father to Debbie and Darrell. In addition to his parents, Howard was preceded in death by his sister, Estelle Cox and brother, Hubert Wright. He is survived by his wife, Carol Blake Wright; son, Darrell Wright (Kristi) of Lexington; daughter, Debbie Lowery (Mark) of Florida; 2 grandchildren, Brittany Hirt of Seattle, WA and Mykala Wright of Kernersville; brother, Boyd Wright (Margaret) of Asheboro; and sisters, Gladys Kinney (Alvin) of Asheboro and Alice Richardson of Asheboro. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, August 4, 2026 from 6:00-8:00 pm at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue in Asheboro. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 2:00 pm at Bethel Friends Meeting, 2519 Bethel Friends Road in Asheboro with Rev. Ricky Sessoms officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Randolph, 416 Vision Dr., Asheboro, NC 27203.
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Randolph Record at obits@ randolphrecord.com
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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
STATE & NATION Jackson joins lawsuit against DHS, FEMA over funding threat States must comply with federal election rules to receive counterterrorism funding
“The last time they tried this, we took them to court and won. … I expect we’ll beat them — again.”
By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal RALEIGH — Last week, Attorney General Jeff Jackson joined a multistate lawsuit against the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security for alleged threats to withhold 20% of state counterterrorism funding. According to grant requirements issued by FEMA, states must provide proof of compliance with federal election rules to receive full funding. “FEMA is threatening our counterterrorism funding again,” said Jackson in a press release. “The last time they tried this, we took them to court and won. Now they’re trying again, and I expect we’ll beat them — again. “Hopefully they get the message: Don’t threaten our first responders unless you’re ready for a fight.” North Carolina received more than $17 million through counterterrorism and emergen-
Jeff Jackson, North Carolina attorney general
COURTESY @NCAGO / X
North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson, pictured last month, joined several states in a lawsuit against FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security. cy preparedness programs last year. The money funds bomb squad equipment, active shooter exercises, cyberattack resistance, hurricane and natural disaster response, flood risk mitigation, wildfire management and search-and-rescue operations. The election security compliance mandates include:
• States must submit plans to use equipment that accepts hand-marked paper ballots rather than electronic systems using barcodes and QR codes. • Jurisdictions must conduct a manual audit of at least 5% of all cast ballots after every federal election. • States must use the federal Systematic Alien Verification
for Entitlements (SAVE) database to verify the citizenship of every voter and remove verified noncitizens. • States must use the SAVE database to verify the citizenship of individuals working at polling places or operating election systems. • Jurisdictions must match the number of participating voters with the total number of ballots counted. At the center of the issue is DHS needing to verify proof of compliance with the rules. If DHS fails to do so, FEMA will withhold 20% of a recipient’s total Homeland Security Grant Program funding. Additionally, DHS has a condition allowing the cancellation or withdrawal of grants if projects do not align with federal priorities. According to the press release, the requirements for ad-
ministering elections would interfere with the authority of the North Carolina State Board of Elections and county boards. The mandates would also require voting equipment in 13 rural North Carolina counties to be replaced after they had been certified by the state board. Jackson argues that the federal government could pull money during a response, which would hinder states’ planning of public safety operations. He additionally stated that FEMA has no authority over elections, and that FEMA and DHS are violating the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) and the Spending Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The APA regulates how U.S. government agencies make regulations, handle legal disputes and listen to public feedback. The Spending Clause gives Congress the power to collect taxes and spend money to pay debt, defend the country and provide for general welfare. Previously, FEMA and DHS were sued in November 2025 and December 2025 by a coalition of states over withheld emergency management, public safety and climate resiliency grants. More than $17 million for North Carolina was withheld, and the court ordered FEMA to reinstate $200 million in canceled climate resiliency grants for North Carolina. The court rejected the conditions DHS and FEMA put on the funds, stating they were not “consistent with Congressional intent or FEMA’s mission.”
FBI investigates as Michigan joins Minnesota in reporting cyberattacks on water systems The attacks come amid federal warnings about Iranian hackers targeting water systems By Michael Casey The Associated Press MICHIGAN on Saturday joined Minnesota in reporting cyberattacks on nine of the state’s water systems, but an official said all systems were operating “safely.” Earlier this week, authorities said cyberattacks targeted more than 30 water systems in Minnesota. The source of the attacks is being investigated, but they came amid warnings that Iranian hackers have been focused on such systems. The reports in Michigan surfaced after the state received a federal cyber alert Tuesday about attempts to tamper with operational technology at water systems. Soon after, the state received “a small number of reports from Michigan communities indicating activity consistent with what federal agencies described,” said Dale George, the director of communications at the state’s Department
of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. He later said nine systems were impacted. “All systems continued to operate safely, issues were addressed by local operators, and there are no known impacts that posed a public health concern,” George said in a statement. The FBI, which is investigating, has not publicly identified a culprit, and a spokesperson declined to say last Thursday who the bureau thought might be responsible. The FBI, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and other agencies warned in an advisory last week that Iranian hackers have been targeting water and wastewater systems and the operational controls of other critical infrastructure sectors. “The FBI is aware of recent public reporting around Water and Wastewater (WWS) sectors,” the agency said in a statement Saturday. “The FBI and our interagency partners are fully engaged to protect critical infrastructure and we remain well-equipped to protect against cyber threats of all varieties.” Digital warfare has become ingrained in military conflict, and local water plants or healthcare facilities often lack
“All systems continued to operate safely, issues were addressed by local operators, and there are no known impacts that posed a public health concern.” ELLEN SCHMIDT / AP PHOTO
Cyberattacks on water systems are becoming more prevalent. the funds and know-how to install the latest software patches or take other security steps. That has made them a favorite target, both because of the relative ease of penetrating them and because of the panic such disruptions can cause. Iran’s interest in the operations of water systems inside the U.S. dates back years. In 2016, the Justice Department charged a group of Iranian hackers in connection with a cyberattack targeting a small dam near New York City. Minnesota IT Services said that as of last Thursday, there were no active requests from
Dale George, director of communications at Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy Minnesota communities for residents to modify usage of their drinking water. The state agency said most of the confirmed attacks involved technology that water systems use to remotely monitor and control equipment. It said that being impacted meant investigators confirmed there was malicious activity involving the system’s technology and didn’t mean every impacted community had their water service disrupted. For a few hours Monday, the city of Braham asked residents to minimize water use as it tried to determine why the wa-
ter plant was offline. The city of about 1,700 people, located about 70 miles north of Minneapolis, said in a news release that the water plant outage was due to a cyberattack, but it didn’t cause any issue with water quality. The city said the attackers shut down the operating controls that shut down the well and water treatment plant. That left the city for a time only able to provide residents with the water held in the water tower. In Plymouth, a city of about 80,000 located outside of Minneapolis, officials said on social media that their water infrastructure communications had been restored by Tuesday afternoon following a cyberattack. During a Cabinet meeting last Friday at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland, President Donald Trump claimed without evidence that recent cyberattacks in Minnesota were the fault of the state, including Democratic Gov. Tim Walz. Walz responded on social media, saying Trump “knows exactly who is responsible for this attack, and knows that other states were hit too.”
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Jason Gallimore and his Asheboro-based team celebrate after winning a feature race Saturday night at Caraway Speedway.
Drivers make late dashes to win Caraway races The card included the annual demolition derby and accompanying activities at the track Randolph Record staff ASHEBORO — Comebacks were among the themes Saturday night at Caraway Speedway. Jackson Sparks won the
Chargers feature with some solid work behind the wheel across the final laps. Sparks didn’t emerge in front until late in the 35-lap race, with Matthew Smith the runner-up. Points leader Tyler Bush was third, followed by Richard Shoffner and Blake Shupe. There were 14 cars entered. • Jimmy Cooper mount-
Late-season woes cost ZooKeepers The team reached the CPL postseason but didn’t stick around long Randolph Record staff ASHEBORO — After leading the Coastal Plain League’s West Division for almost the entire season, things went awry for the Asheboro ZooKeepers. The ZooKeepers encountered their roughest stretch of the season in the final week of the regular season. That seeped into Sunday night’s one-game West Division wild card playoff when the ZooKeepers fell 3-2 to the host Forest City Owls at McNair Field. After a pregame weather-related delay, the ZooKeepers took a 2-1 lead on Drue Saenz’s two-run single in the third inning. The Owls tied the score in the bottom of the inning and then produced the winning unearned run before an out was recorded in the ninth off reliever Caydon Laird. Asheboro starter Olmedo
Asheboro’s regular-season record was 28-20, putting it third in its division. Quezada worked seven innings. The regular season had late bumps as the ZooKeepers lost six consecutive games before claiming the finale by defeating the High Point-Thomasville HiToms 5-3 on Saturday night at McCrary Park. Asheboro’s 28-20 regular-season record in the summer collegiate baseball league left it behind first-place Macon (30-17) and Forest City (28-19) in the West Division. The ZooKeepers had the fifth-best record across the entire CPL. Wyatt Bush and Thomas Cano-Piszel each drove in two runs in the last regular-season game. Nathan McKissick was the winning pitcher, and Braxton Walker notched the save.
ed a comeback through the field of the UCARs feature. Cooper went from last place to first. Allen Vance was the runner-up ahead of Daniel Hughes, Ron Mock and Skyler Hughes. Points leader Tito Clapp was sixth in the 15-driver race. • In Mini Stocks, the winners were Jamison Whittington (rear-wheel drive) and Ja-
Before that, there were struggles last week. Asheboro was swept in a doubleheader at Forest City, which rallied in both games. In the opener, the Owls trailed 3-0 through five innings before tying the game in the fifth and winning with a six-inning run. Chris Toyer took the loss in relief. Forest City posted four runs in the bottom of the seventh to win on Andrew Hill’s grand slam, with runs charged to relievers Robert Ahlgren and Alex Graber as an out wasn’t recorded in the frame. Asheboro starter Abdriel Figueroa went five innings and gave up one run. Brady McGuire and Daniel Stephens homered for the ZooKeepers. Asheboro next fell 13-11 at High Point-Thomasville despite home runs from Bush, AJ Malzone and Cano-Piszel. Bush had four hits and drove in five runs, while starting pitcher Quezada, who didn’t get through the first inning, took the loss. Last Thursday’s 12-8 setback to the visiting Boone Bigfoots came with allowing at least one run in seven of the nine innings. Starter Carlos Gomez was pinned with the loss. The Bigfoots won 10-7 in the rematch the next night in Boone, with the loss charged to starter Ricky Montalvo.
son Gallimore (front-wheel drive). • In the Crown Vic division, Todd Bradbury claimed the victory ahead of Brandon Mock, Corey Wyatt, Corbin Payne, Kirk Hanson, Chris Morris, TJ Gibson and Bubba Cline. • Southern Ground Pounders made another visit to the track, with Shayne Lockhart prevailing in the Modified class and Bobby Griffin notching the triumph in the Sportsman class. • Ben Hanks defeated David Edwards and Jimmy Crigger to take the Enduro/Any Car win. • The night’s theme was the annual Crashin’ Hackett’s Night of Destruction. Old school buses were part
of the action, and there was a “Figure 8” race to go with the demolition derby. Ashley Gallimore claimed the victory in the “Ladies Gone Wild” boat/trailer race. Gene Kepley survived five laps to claim the school bus race. Justin Walker won the “Figure 8” race. It marked the 14th year for the demolition derby. • The next race card at the track comes Aug. 15, with Limited Late Models featured in a 99-lap race. Dylan Ward, Thomas Beane and Coy Beard have a shot at bonus money by winning. Chargers, Mini Stocks, UCARs and Crown Vics also will be in action.
Randolph County sits out American Legion regionals The Asheboro venue is no longer a postseason destination By Bob Sutton Randolph Record ASHEBORO — For more than a decade, American Legion baseball regionals were held at McCrary Park. But that streak has ended this year, leaving Asheboro out of the advanced stages of the postseason. Randolph County Post 45 had served as a host of the Southeast Regional or Mid-Atlantic Regional from 2013-25 (with the exception of the pandemic-canceled 2020 season). This time around, Randolph County was bypassed. That decision had been made more than a year ago. Part of the fallout meant that the only way Post 45
The only way Post 45 could secure a berth in the regionals was to be the state champion representing North Carolina. Randolph County’s automatic bid as regional host was gone. could secure a berth in the regionals was to be the state champion representing North Carolina. Randolph County’s automatic bid as regional host was gone. Instead, Cherryville Post 100 is the host for the Southeast Regional. Two regionals are taking place in North Carolina, with See REGIONALS, page B2
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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
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Prep teams begin formal practice work for fall season
Area high school alumni receive all-academic honors
Official practices for most area teams participating in fall sports arrived last Wednesday. That was the date for practices to begin for members of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association. All fall sports except volleyball are contested outdoors. Competitions can begin Aug. 10 with the exception of football. Those season openers are set for Aug. 21. The exception for the practice starting date came for girls’ flag football teams. Practices for those teams can begin at the end of August.
Athletes out of Randolph County received USA South Conference’s all-academic recognition for the 2025-26 school year. Asheboro alum Carlisle Dozier, a member of the Greensboro College women’s soccer team, was named to the conference’s all-academic team. A similar honor went to Wheatmore alum Sean Jennison of the Methodist baseball team. He also pitched for Randolph County Post 45 this spring and summer.
NCHSAA selects next commissioner The transition for the governing body will take place across a couple of months Randolph Record staff
COURTESY NCHSAA
COURTESY ASHEBORO CITY SCHOOLS
Brad Alford
CHAPEL HILL — Brad Alford will be the next commissioner of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association, replacing retiring Que Tucker on Oct. 1. Alford is director of the Office of Athletics for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, where he oversees statewide governance and administration of interscholastic athletics for North Car-
olina’s public schools. He also serves as the state superintendent’s designee for interscholastic athletics and represents NCDPI on the NCHSAA board of directors. Beginning as an intern in 2010, Alford spent nearly 15 years in various roles with the NCHSAA. Alford will be part of a transition period beginning Aug. 24, working alongside Tucker. He’ll be the association’s eighth commissioner for an organization that is more than 100 years old. Tucker has been commissioner since 2015. According to the NCHSAA, Alford helped oversee championship operations, sport administration, compliance, governance and major statewide initiatives during his previous time with the association. He was a Southern Durham High School graduate before earning an undergraduate degree from Mount Olive and master’s degree in sport management from East Carolina.
Asheboro, basketball / track and field Hurdling became Price’s specialty in track and field. She also competed in jumping events. She was an all-conference member for track and field in each of her final three years in high school. Price had two top-eight finishes in the Class 6A Central Regional for track and field as a senior this year. Previously, she was the champion three years in a row in the 100-meter hurdles and 300 hurdles in the Randolph County Championships. She also competed for the Blue Comets in basketball. Price intends to compete in track and field for South Carolina-Beaufort, where she’ll study biology.
During the summer, we recognize seniors from the past school year.
REGIONALS from page B1 both of those scheduled to wrap up Sunday. The Southeast Regional is being held at Fraley Field in Cherryville. The Mid-South Regional is being contested at Sims Legion Park in Gastonia. The Mid-Atlantic Regional is Tivenan Field in Worcester, Massachusetts. The American Legion World Series runs from Aug. 13-18 at Keeter Stadium in Shelby. Post 45 won regional cham-
pionships at home in 2017, 2018 and 2019. This year, the North Carolina state champion is Garner Post 232, which defeated Union County Post 535 by 10-5 in the championship. That six-day tournament ended last week in Gastonia, with Garner going undefeated in the double-elimination tournament. Union County eliminated Post 45 in the Area 3 semifinals last month. Then Union County fell 4-2 to Rowan County Post 342 in the one-game Area 3 championship game.
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Dodgers land Cy Young ace Skubal in deadline deal Los Angeles sent three prospects to Detroit By Josh Dubow The Associated Press SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired the biggest prize on the trade deadline market, getting two-time reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers. Skubal got the news during the game and was emotional after the game as he prepared to leave the team that drafted him in 2018 and developed him into a star to join the two-time defending World Series champions. “I’m excited to be a Dodger,” he said. “I’m excited to get down there and meet all those guys and chase three championships in a row. That’s hard to do, so I’m so excited to be a part of that. It’s a lot of different emotions. Definitely kind of a roller coaster a little bit.” Skubal is the latest star to join the high-priced roster for the Dodgers that already has big-name players like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Mookie Betts. The Dodgers are in first place in the NL West and were already the favorites to become the first team to three-peat since the New York Yankees from 1998-2000 before adding Skubal. They began the season with a $323.3 million opening-day payroll for their 40-man roster and a $163.7 million tax for a $487.1 million total. They will pay Skubal about $9.5 million for the remainder of the season. The Tigers would receive three minor league prospects in right-handers River Ryan and Brady Smith and outfielder Zyhir Hope. Skubal is eligible for free agency after the World Series. He has a $32 million salary, a record total in arbitration and is expected to sign a massive contract in the offseason. The 29-year-old lefty said in July it was his preference to finish the season with the Tigers and to compete for a World Series. Skubal took the loss in
PAUL SANCYA / AP PHOTO
Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal walks to the dugout after leaving his final start with the team before getting traded. the decisive Game 5 of the division series against Cleveland in 2024 and then got a no-decision in a 15-inning loss to Seattle in Game 5 of the division series last year. He said it was “very tough” to leave the Tigers having fallen short of the goal of winning a title. “Ever since that ’24 Game 5, the failure that I experienced on the mound, I’ve used that as fuel to try and bring a World Series to the city of Detroit. I truly did,” he said. “That whole offseason I’ve never been more motivated and then go in and we lose Game 5 again. That failure kind of sparks some more motivation, just to dig deeper and see how good you can truly be. The goal was always to win a World Series for the city, for the organization that took a chance on me. It’s tough. I love all those guys in there. They’re some of my best friends.” The Tigers got off to a rough start and are currently 21⁄2 games out of the last wild-card spot in the American League. “It’s crazy. Going into the season, this isn’t what I planned
on doing,” Skubal said. “But circumstances change, situations change, and I’m very appreciative of everything the Tigers have done for me.” “I’ve watched this guy rise to the top of the sport,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “He’s carried us a lot. I’ll forever be grateful that our paths crossed and the things that he did for this organization and for a couple of playoff teams. His presence, his work ethic, his example, his dominance. There’s so much to go through, it’s hard to capture in one quote or kind of one setting. But I’m very grateful that I was able to manage him for the time that I did.” Skubal is 7-5 this season with a 2.79 ERA and 116 strikeouts in 962⁄3 innings. He is 61-42 with a 3.04 ERA over seven seasons, all in Detroit. In two postseasons, Skubal is 2-1 with a 2.04 ERA in six starts. Skubal had a minimally invasive surgery May 6 to remove a loose body from his pitching elbow and returned to pitch on June 13. “The way the surgery went is exactly how it was supposed to go,” he said in July.
Randolph Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
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pen & paper pursuits this week in history World Wide Web goes live, U.S. drops nukes on Japan, Pollock dies
lowers were later convicted of the crime.
The Associated Press
1792: During the French Revolution, mobs in Paris attacked the Tuileries Palace, where King Louis XVI resided. (The king was later arrested, put on trial for treason and executed.) 1969: Leno and Rosemary LaBianca were murdered in their Los Angeles home by members of Charles Manson’s cult. 1993: Ruth Bader Ginsburg was sworn in as the second female justice on the U.S. Supreme Court, serving until her death in September 2020.
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AUG. 6 1806: Emperor Francis II abdicated, marking the end of the Holy Roman Empire after nearly a thousand years. 1945: During World War II, the U.S. B-29 Superfortress Enola Gay dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan, resulting in an estimated 140,000 deaths. 1991: The World Wide Web made its public debut as a means of accessing webpages over the internet. AUG. 7 1789: The U.S. Department of War was established by Congress. 1942: U.S. and other allied forces landed at Guadalcanal, marking the start of the first major allied offensive in the Pacific during World War II. 1974: French high-wire artist Philippe Petit performed an unapproved tightrope walk between the two towers of the World Trade Center in New York, more than 1,300 feet above the ground; the event was chronicled in the Academy Award-winning documentary “Man on Wire.” AUG. 8 1814: During the War of 1812, peace talks between the United States and Britain began in Ghent, Belgium. 1815: Napoleon Bonaparte set sail for St. Helena to spend the remainder of his days in exile. 1876: Thomas Edison received a patent for his electric pen — the forerunner
THE WALDEN WOODS PROJECT VIA WIKIPEDIA
Henry David Thoreau’s “Walden,” an account of his time living near Walden Pond in Massachusetts, was published Aug. 9, 1854. of the mimeograph machine. 1908: Wilbur Wright made the Wright Brothers’ first public flying demonstration, at Le Mans racecourse in France. AUG. 9 1173: Construction began on the campanile of Pisa Cathedral — better known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa. 1854: Henry David Thoreau’s “Walden,” which described Thoreau’s experiences while living near Walden Pond in Massachusetts, was first published. 1945: Three days after the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, a U.S. B-29 Superfortress dropped an atomic device over Nagasaki. 1969: Actor Sharon Tate and four other people were found killed at Tate’s Los Angeles home; cult leader Charles Manson and a group of his fol-
AUG. 11 1929: Babe Ruth became the first baseball player to reach 500 career home runs with a homer at Cleveland’s League Park. 1956: Abstract painter Jackson Pollock died in an automobile accident on Long Island, New York, at age 44. 1973: At a house party in the Bronx, 18-year-old DJ Kool Herc began extending the musical breaks of the records he was playing and speaking over the beat, marking the (unofficial) birth of hip-hop music. AUG. 12 1898: Fighting in the Spanish-American War came to an end. 1909: The Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home to the Indianapolis 500, first opened. 2022: Salman Rushdie, the author whose writing led to death threats from Iran in the 1980s, was attacked and stabbed in the neck and eye by a man who rushed the stage as Rushdie was about to give a lecture in western New York.
HIROSHIMA PEACE MEMORIAL MUSEUM / U.S. ARMY VIA AP
A cloud rises over Hiroshima, Japan, hours after the U.S. dropped the atomic bomb “Little Boy” on Aug. 6, 1945.
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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
James, Strout among Booker Prize semifinalists Judges will announce six finalists Sept. 22
Author Douglas Stuart poses for a portrait in 2026, in New York.
By Jill Lawless The Associated Press LONDON — Booker Prize winners Marlon James and Douglas Stuart are in the running again for the prestigious fiction award, alongside Dublin gangs, dystopian science fiction and the New England characters of Pulitzer Prize laureate Elizabeth Strout. Judges read 163 novels to come up with the 13 semifinalists announced last week for the $66,000 Booker Prize, a list described by historian Mary Beard, head of the judging panel, as literary “dynamite.” The list includes James’ “The Disappearers,” about a group of gay men in a hostile 1980s Jamaica; Stuart’s “John of John,” a story of father-son secrets on a remote Scottish island; and Strout’s heartfelt small-town tale “The Things We Never Say.” James won the Booker in 2015 for “A Brief History of Seven Killings,” and Stuart won in 2020 for “Shuggie Bain.” Strout’s “Oh William!” was a finalist in 2022. She won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction in 2009 for “Olive Kitteridge.” They sit alongside lesser-known names on a Booker longlist that includes authors with roots in Britain, Ireland, Jamaica, Mexico, Turkey and the United States. Three of those on the list are debut authors: Turkish
ANDY KROPA / INVISION VIA AP
American writer Kenan Orhan for family history story “The Renovation,” British author Rebecca Perry for Medieval-to-modern tale “May We Feed the King” and Ireland’s Djamel White for “All Them Dogs,” a thriller set in the Dublin underworld. White, at 28, is the youngest author in the running. The oldest is 81-year-old M. John Harrison, whose postapocalyptic tale “The End of Everything” is a rare science fiction novel to make the Booker list. The other contenders are “The Shadow of the Object” by Chloe Aridjis, “Black Bag” by Luke Kennard, “The Vivisectors” by Missouri Williams, “Switzy” by Emma Cline, “Helen of Nowhere” by Makenna Goodman and Gwendoline Riley’s “The Palm House.” Beard said the five jurors, who include Pulp frontman Jarvis Cocker and American
novelist Patricia Lockwood, tried to look beyond the idea of a typical Booker winner – “slightly serious, about to be classic.” Instead, they chose novels that are “trying to expand the boundaries of how we can think about ourselves in completely different ways.” “Sometimes they’re using humor, sometimes it’s pathos, sometimes there’s shock value,” Beard said. “They’re risk-takers. They are dynamite. They say, ‘Come on, try seeing it a different way.’” Founded in 1969, the Booker Prize has a reputation for transforming writers’ careers and is open to novels from any country published in the U.K. and Ireland. Last year’s winner was “Flesh” by Hungarian British writer David Szalay. The winner will be revealed Nov. 9 at a ceremony in London.
SOLUTIONS FOR THIS WEEK
BTS performs at halftime of the World Cup final soccer match between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 19.
YUKI IWAMURA / AP PHOTO
Recording Academy CEO addresses BTS’ decision to skip Grammy submissions The Korean boy band did not want to be categorized by ethnicity By Maria Sherman The Associated Press NEW YORK — Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. has responded to the news that K-pop powerhouse BTS will not submit their music for consideration at the forthcoming 2027 Grammy Awards. “I am saddened to hear that BTS has chosen not to participate in the Grammy Awards process this year, but as a music creator, I understand and respect their decision,” Mason Jr. wrote on the Grammys’ official Instagram page. Last Wednesday, all seven BTS members — RM, Suga, j-hope, Jimin, V, Jung Kook and Jin — shared the same note on Instagram, stating that they would not be submitting their comeback album “ARIRANG” or its songs for Grammys. “We hope our music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language,” they wrote, just over a month af-
“We hope our music can be heard and loved for what it is, rather than being divided by region or language.” BTS ter the Recording Academy announced five new Grammy categories, which include best Asian pop music performance. According to the rulebook, the category recognizes releases across K-pop, J-pop, C-pop and beyond. But some fans viewed it as a racialized barrier for Asian performers. In his statement, Mason Jr. stated that the new category was created in order to celebrate more voices across the Asian music industry — not to separate those artists from other awards. “I do want to clarify something that seems to be getting lost in the conversation. The Asian Pop category was created to celebrate the depth, diversity and extraordinary growth of pop artistry coming
out of Asia,” he wrote. “More categories mean more artists’ work is recognized. It’s never to divide, but to expand who is recognized by our 15,000 Grammy voters.” He added a reminder that submitting in a genre category — such as the new Asian pop award — does not exclude an artist from submitting to the general field categories like album, song and record of the year. “Recognition in a genre category and recognition in the General Field are not mutually exclusive,” Mason Jr. said. “An artist can absolutely pursue both.” BTS has never won a Grammy, though they’ve been nominated for five: three times in the best pop duo/group performance category as well as album of the year (for their contributions to Coldplay’s “Music of the Spheres”) and best music video for “Yet to Come.” In fact, no K-pop act had ever won a Grammy before this year, when “Golden” from the Netflix animated film “KPop Demon Hunters” took home the trophy for best song for visual media.
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famous birthdays this week Charlize Theron is 51, Keith Carradine turns 77, Sam Elliott celebrates 82, Sir Mix-A-Lot spins to 63 The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week. AUG. 6 Actor-director Peter Bonerz is 88. Actor Dorian Harewood is 76. Actor Leland Orser is 66. Actor Michelle Yeoh is 65. Basketball Hall of Famer David Robinson is 61. Actor Soleil Moon Frye is 50.
CHRIS PIZZELLO/ AP PHOTO
Actor Rosanna Arquette turns 67 on Monday.
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LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
Singer Lana Cantrell is 83. Actor John Glover is 82. Actor David Rasche is 82. Former diplomat, talk show host and activist Alan Keyes is 76. Country singer Rodney Crowell is 76. Actor Wayne Knight is 71. Rock singer Bruce Dickinson is 68. Actor David Duchovny is 66. Actor Michael Shannon is 52. Actor Charlize Theron is 51. AUG. 8 Actor Nita Talbot is 96. Actor Dustin Hoffman is 80. Actor Connie Stevens is 88. Actor Larry Wilcox is 79. Actor Keith Carradine is 77. Movie director Martin Brest is 75. Radio-TV personality Robin Quivers is 74. Rock musician The Edge (U2) is 65. AUG. 9 Basketball Hall of Famer Bob Cousy is 98. Tennis Hall of Famer Rod Laver is 88. Actor Sam Elliott is 82. Singer Barbara Mason is 79. Actor Melanie Griffith is 69. Rapper Kurtis Blow is 67. Pro and College Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders is 59. AUG. 10 Actor James Reynolds is 80. Rock singer-musician Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull) is 79. Country musician Gene Johnson (Diamond Rio) is 77. Actor
DARKO VOJINOVIC / AP PHOTO
Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak turns 76 on Tuesday. Daniel Hugh Kelly is 74. Folk singer-songwriter Sam Baker is 72. Actor Rosanna Arquette is 67. AUG. 11 Magazine columnist Marilyn vos Savant is 80. Country music singer John Conlee is 80. Computer scientist and Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak is 76. Musician Joe Jackson is 72. Actor-host Joe Rogan is 59. AUG. 12 Actor George Hamilton is 87. Singer-musician Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits) is 77. Singer Kid Creole (Kid Creole and the Coconuts) is 76. Jazz guitarist Pat Metheny is 72. Rapper Sir Mix-A-Lot is 63. Tennis Hall of Famer Pete Sampras is 55.
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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 6, 2026
the stream
UNIVERSAL PICTURES / PARAMOUNT PICTURES / NETFLIX VIA AP
“You, Me & Tuscany,” left, the concert film “Billie Eilish — Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live),” center, and science fiction thriller “The Last House” are all streaming this week.
‘Ted Lasso,’ Billie Eilish, Stray Kids, ‘You, Me & Tuscany,’ ‘The Shards’ Ravyn Lenae drops “Blue Island” The Associated Press THE RETURN of “Ted Lasso” and Billie Eilish’s immersive concert film are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you. Also, among the streaming offerings worth your time this week: The rom-com “You, Me & Tuscany,” a new mini-album from Stray Kids and the new series based on Bret Easton Ellis’ “The Shards.” MOVIES TO STREAM A family is trapped inside their home for years in the new science-fiction thriller “The Last House,” streaming Friday on Netflix. Greta Lee and Wagner Moura play parents to two children who find themselves in the mysterious predicament in the Louis Leterrier-directed movie. James Cameron and Eilish share the directing credit on the concert film “Billie Eilish — Hit Me Hard and Soft: The Tour (Live),” which hits Paramount+ on Thursday. In her review, AP music writer Maria Sherman wrote, “While no movie can serve as the perfect replica of a transformative live music experience … (this) works an immersive magic. Every seat is the best seat in the house in these shots.” Halle Bailey plays a professional house sitter who impulsively takes up residence in an Italian villa in the romantic comedy “You, Me & Tuscany,” streaming on Peacock starting Friday. Equal parts picturesque and improbable, the movie involves a case of mistaken identity and a lie about an engagement that gets in the way of a potentially real romance with Regé-Jean Page. Jocelyn Noveck, in her review for The Associated Press, wrote that it is “a movie as frothy and insubstantial as the foam on a nice cappuccino.” Colombian filmmaker Simón Mesa Soto won a prize from last year’s Cannes Film Festival in the Un Certain Regard section for “A Poet,” about a failed writer named Oscar, that will be streaming on Mubi on Friday. AP film writer Jake Coyle, in his review, wrote, “While ‘A Poet’ might remind you of some other films — one would be Cord Jefferson’s ‘A merican Fiction’ — it is, like Oscar, steadfastly its own thing. Filmed on grainy 16mm, it’s even rough and dirty around the edges. … But if Soto’s
ANDY KROPA / INVISION VIA AP
Regé-Jean Page, from left, Halle Bailey, director Kat Coiro and Will Packer attend the premiere of the romantic comedy “You, Me & Tuscany” at Jazz at Lincoln Center on April 8 in New York.
ter City. He then resigned to return home to Kansas to spend more time with his son, Henry. Now, the Emmy-winning series resumes, with Lasso returning to the U.K. to coach AFC Richmond’s new women’s team. Hannah Waddingham, Brett Goldstein, Juno Temple, Jeremy Swift and Brendan Hunt return with Sudeikis for this continuation of the Lasso universe. Ryan Murphy has teamed up with “American Psycho” and “Less Than Zero” author Ellis to adapt Ellis’ autofiction novel “The Shards” for FX. Set in 1981 in Los Angeles, it stars Igby Rigney as a privileged high school senior named Bret, who finds himself both suspicious of and obsessed with a new student (played by Homer James Jigme Gere). At the same time, a serial killer is targeting teens in the area, and the kids are becoming increasingly paranoid. The show has a roster of rising talent including Kaia Gerber, Hayes Warner and Graham Campbell. It is available now on FX on Hulu. It’s gonna be a minute until Prime Video is ready to release “The Summer I Turned Pretty” movie or Season 2 of “Off Campus,” so it’s churning out the YA shows to keep viewers swooning in the meantime. “Sterling Point” is the latest offering from Josh Schwartz and Stephanie Savage (“The OC,” “Gossip Girl”), who are co-showrunners alongside buzzy up-and-coming director and actor Megan Park (“My Old Ass”). It’s about a teen named Annie who inherits her grandfather’s island after his death. The drama begins is streaming now. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY
RICHARD SHOTWELL / INVISION VIA AP
Above, Jason Sudeikis arrives at the season four premiere of “Ted Lasso” on July 27 in Los Angeles. Right, Ravyn Lenae’s third album, “Blue Island,” releases Aug. 7. film is loose and gritty, its satire is remarkably precise. This is a farce of creative life where the only pure artistic intention is a joke.” MUSIC TO STREAM The British girl-group greats FLO have found “Therapy at the Club.” At least, that is the promise — and title — of their sophomore album. Expect 16 tracks of R&B-pop bliss. If there’s any wisdom to be learned on the
ATLANTIC VIA AP
dance floor here, it is because their silky-smooth, three-part vocal harmonies delivered the message. It’s hard to underscore just how massive Ravyn Lenae’s 2024 single “Love Me Not” was in 2025. The swoony song went mega-viral on TikTok and became the centerpiece of a lot of online conversation, much of which positioned Lenae as contemporary R&B’s saving grace. But a one-hit wonder with only a dance trend to her name she is
not. “Blue Island,” her forthcoming third album, pushes boundaries — of genre, of expectation and public perception. SERIES TO STREAM Hard to believe, but it’s been three years since “Ted Lasso” concluded its third season on Apple TV. The lovably folksy soccer coach (played by Jason Sudeikis) led AFC Richmond to become No. 2 in the Premier League, behind Manches-
Dogs have been part of video games since 1984’s “Duck Hunt,” but you don’t often get to control them. Koo, the co-star of “Beast of Reincarnation,” wants to change that. The feisty mutt and his human pal Emma are fighting bloodthirsty mutants and killer robots in a postapocalyptic Japan in the year 4026. Emma swings a mean katana, but she can call upon Koo to leap in and take a bite out of an enemy — or just sniff out treasure. Fetch it now on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S or PC. In “Big Walk,” you and up to 11 friends are dropped on a mysterious island where your goal ... well, I’m not sure what your goal is. You can team up to solve puzzles. You can go for walks. You can sit and watch the sunset. Sometimes you’ll lose the ability to chat with your buddies, so you’ll need to figure out other ways to communicate. Australian developer House House is best known for 2019’s preposterous “Untitled Goose Game,” and its new release aims to transfer that cult hit’s sense of whimsical chaos to a co-op package. Begin the hike on PlayStation 5, Switch 2 and PC.
VOLUME 11 ISSUE 24 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 | HOKE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM
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HOKE COUNTY THE HOKE COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
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Road to Raeford Farmland along Rockfish Road looks green Monday afternoon after storms moved through the area over the weekend.
WHAT’S HAPPENING Divided federal appeals court says Trump administration wrong to terminate climate funds Washington, D.C. A federal appeals court has ruled that the Trump administration improperly ended a multibillion-dollar program for clean energy projects. This decision supports a lower court’s ruling that nonprofits chosen to run the Biden-era effort should have access the funds. The ruling is temporarily on hold, allowing the Environmental Protection Agency time to appeal to the Supreme Court. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, known as a “green bank,” was designed to finance small energy projects. The Trump administration accused the nonprofits of mismanagement and fraud, freezing the funds. The groups denied wrongdoing and sued, claiming legal violations.
Guard deployment to Washington, D.C., into 2029 will cost roughly $1.4B, estimate shows The extension of the National Guard deployment in Washington, D.C., until January 2029 will cost roughly $1.4 billion, according to a Defense Department estimate provided to Congress. The figure offers a glimpse of how much taxpayer money will be spent on a deployment that has been criticized by local officials as an infringement of their city’s autonomy and by Democrats who say it has militarized the streets of the nation’s capital.
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Hoke County approves variety of sheriff’s office administrative items The sheriff’s office is looking to purchase additional vehicles By Ryan Henkel North State Journal RAEFORD — The Hoke County Board of Commissioners met Aug. 3 with a short agenda. The board first approved a variety of sheriff’s office items, the first being the reallocation of $25,000 from the Hoke County Sheriff’s Office’s Drug Asset Forfeiture fund to capital outlay to fund the purchase of equipment, and then the usage of leftover funds from the motor vehicle funds to be used for the purchase of additional vehicles. “One vehicle was allotted for the jail and five for the sheriff’s office,” said Sheriff Roderick Virgil. “We found some deals, got some used vehicles that
were already upfitted and so that saved us some money, and I’d like to use that to purchase some more vehicles.” The board also approved the reallocation of $110,000 in Hoke County Detention Center funds to allow for the purchase of vehicles as well. “Our SMCP (Statewide Misdemeanant Confinement Program) has picked up, and so we’re establishing transportation teams within the jail,” said Jail Administrator Lisa Thomas. “With us doing that, we need the funding to start that initiative.” The board also approved the acceptance of a $10,000 North Carolina Youth Sports Grant for the Hoke County Parks and Recreation Department. “The funding will go toward the purchase of sports equipment for parks and recreation,” said Grants Manager Michelle Payne. “New equipment, replacement equipment
“We found some deals, got some used vehicles that were already upfitted and so that saved us some money.” Sheriff Roderick Virgil and also safety equipment.” The board was then presented with the Voices of Hoke County, an anthology of stories from families who participated in Upchurch Elementary School’s Family Silent Book Club, an event that brings families together to promote literacy and reading. “We would like to express our gratitude to you guys for your support in our Family Silent Book Club,” said Upchurch Elementary School Community Schools Coordinator Cassie Harjala.
“As a former educator, I just want to say kudos to all of you that had a part in this,” said Commissioner Tony Hunt. “This is just so unique in what you’ve done here, and to really spotlight your students like you have shows that you’re on the cutting edge of doing new things to get them to learn.” In closing, County Manager Letitia Edens made a plea for businesses to consider opportunities within the county. “We have been working really hard at bringing in economic development to the county,” Edens said. “We’re working really hard at bringing businesses and commercial here. We are open for business. If you know a business that wants to come to Hoke County, send them to me, and we will work with them to make that happen.” The Hoke County Board of Commissioners will next meet Aug. 17.
Stein, Jackson plan to hold Duke Energy ‘accountable’ in data center pledge More than 200 organizations have signed the Ratepayer Protection Pledge By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal RALEIGH — Gov. Josh Stein and Attorney General Jeff Jackson urged Duke Energy to create a legally binding contract to abide by the promises it has made after joining the federal administration’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge. “Duke just promised the federal government that it won’t shift the cost of data centers onto families,” said Jackson in the press release. “We agree, but a promise in Washing-
“North Carolinians are struggling to make ends meet, and data centers must pay their own way to protect families from rising electricity costs.” Gov. Josh Stein ton doesn’t lower a power bill in North Carolina. We’re calling on Duke to make that same promise to the Utilities Commission, in writing, where it can be enforced.” “I am pleased to see that Duke Energy has signed on to the Ratepayer Protection
Pledge,” added Stein. “Now, Duke Energy must make that voluntary pledge real. “The North Carolina Utilities Commission and Duke Energy must create a legally binding large load tariff to charge data centers their full freight, and they must establish a program that allows data centers to directly select and pay for their generation,” said Stein. “North Carolinians are struggling to make ends meet, and data centers must pay their own way to protect families from rising electricity costs.” Duke Energy is the largest investor-owned electric utility in North Carolina, serving about 8.7 million electric customers and 1.6 million natural gas customers.
Last week, Duke Energy Carolinas, the Utilities Commission’s Public Staff and others reached a settlement to establish large load tariffs and new rules for data centers, according to the press release. Jackson will participate in the process and has urged the Utilities Commission to create a separate rate class for data centers and large energy users. The attorney general has further asked Duke to make realistic projections about data center growth and ensure that Duke will propose rules to have large companies bear the cost of infrastructure upgrades. Duke is additionally being urged to work with the Utilities See PLEDGE, page A2
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
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8.6.26
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North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Trip Hoffend, 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 HOKE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, NC and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607
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Members of Vets for Vets Hoke, VFW Post 10, DAV Chapter 17 and American Legion Post 20 gathered with county and city officials at the veterans monuments in front of the Old Courthouse in Raeford on Monday to mark National Korean War Veterans Armistice Day. Front row, from left, Everette Hawley, 96, a Korean War-era veteran who survived a troop train wreck that killed 33 soldiers in September 1950; Richard Inman, 93, who fought on Hill 409 at the Naktong River during the Battle of the Pusan Perimeter; and George Balch, who spoke at the event. Second row, from left, Willie McCaskill Sr., Vets for Vets President John Harry, Vets for Vets Treasurer Dan Nocher, Linda Barnes of Vets for Vets, the DAV and the American Legion, and veterans Greg Schroeder and Preston Thompson.
PLEDGE from page A1 Commission to establish its own means of generating power, given that its contracts are confidential. Earlier this month, Duke Energy lowered its proposed rate increase for residential customers, which received pushback from Jackson and consumers. The increase was lowered from 18% to 11.6%. The Ratepayer Protection Pledge was issued March 4 to ensure the growth of data centers does not increase electricity costs for American households and ratepayers. It asks that large energy users, such as data centers, generate and pay for their own power. Leading U.S. hyperscalers, including Amazon, Google, Meta, OpenAI and xAI, have signed on to the pledge. The pledge drives home five points: that companies will
JACQUELYN MARTIN / AP PHOTO
President Donald Trump holds up the Ratepayer Protection Pledge after signing it March 4 at the White House. build, bring or buy new power supply and pay the full cost; pay for new power delivery infrastructure upgrades; pay whether or not they use the power; in-
vest in local communities where they build data centers; and coordinate with grid operators to contribute to a more reliable grid.
Several companies across Michigan, Indiana, Georgia, Mississippi, Iowa, Louisiana and Texas have reached agreements that project billions in customer savings over the years or ensure that companies cover 100% of costs. “Big tech companies are committing to fully cover the cost of increased electricity production required for AI data centers, and that would be prices for American communities will not go up, but in many cases will actually come down,” said President Donald Trump during a roundtable about the pledge. Alongside corporations, 23 Republican governors announced their support for the pledge and signed it. When asked why Stein did not follow suit, senior press secretary Onotse Omoyeni explained that Stein’s office “did not receive outreach from the administration about signing this pledge.”
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A podcast local to Hoke-Raeford, NC, with Ruben Castellon and Chris Holland.
Omoyeni emphasized that “the pledge aligns closely with the recommendations of the Governor’s Energy Policy Task Force” and that “Governor Stein believes data centers need to pay their way so that North Carolina residents don’t bear the costs of their massive energy consumption.” The Energy Policy Task Force is a bipartisan group established by Stein in August 2025. The task force recommends developing options for large load tariffs, facilities bringing in their own local power resources and load flexibility programs to keep ratepayers from paying infrastructure expansion costs. Omoyeni added that when Stein signed the state budget, it eliminated the sales and use tax exemption for data centers’ electricity use. She also stated that Stein supports phasing out the exemption in place for equipment purchases.
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | VICTOR JOECKS
The inadequacy of opposing socialism
It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back.
DON’T ASSUME socialism’s inevitable failures will stop it from spreading. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced that his government-run grocery stores will offer products at a 30% discount. The appeal of this plan is obvious. Everyone would like to pay less for milk, eggs and meat. That this plan won’t work is equally obvious to anyone who understands basic economics. Unfortunately, that excludes many New Yorkers and college graduates. Take a look at the details of Mamdani’s plan. He doesn’t want the city to run these stores. He’s seeking proposals from “qualified grocers or firms to serve as operators” of the stores. “The City sets the mission, the standards and the store design; experienced third-party operators run the stores day to day under those requirements,” a release from Mamdani’s office states. Further, “operators will be required to provide family-sustaining wages and benefits and commit to a Labor Peace Agreement so that workers who want to organize can do so without interference.” That Mamdani doesn’t trust NYC’s bureaucracy to run his grocery stores is smart, but it also shows why the government shouldn’t run grocery stores. Mamdani may want to seize the means of production, but he appears to recognize that government doesn’t do a great job of producing. His premise is also absurd. Most
grocery stores have profit margins of 1% to 3%. Mamdani wants an operator to run his stores with 30% discounts on major items and to allow a union to inflate worker pay. Maybe Mamdani can hire fairies to stock the shelves with products delivered by unicorns. But Mamdani doesn’t expect these operators to lower prices by 30%. The city’s request for proposals states the city “will provide financial support to the Operator(s) to mitigate operating deficits attributable to discounted Core Basket sales and enable cost-effective program delivery.” This subsidy would be in addition to NYC taxpayers paying $70 million to build five stores and then cover their rent and property taxes. Mamdani’s grocery store scheme won’t prove the superiority of socialism because he’s not even trying to lower costs. He’s content to disguise them with crony capitalism. It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back. If the grocery stores are “successful,” they’ll drive nearby privately run stores out of business, which will erode the tax base. That will require more government-subsidized grocery stores, driving more grocery stores out of business and further reducing tax revenues. This spiral will continue until New Yorkers come to their electoral senses or run out of toilet paper — proof a
country has fully implemented socialism. These are important arguments to make. But they aren’t enough. Mamdani gives his followers specifics that create a clear narrative. According to him, the problem is high prices — the villains are rich people, and the solution is government-run grocery stores. Now, Mamdani is wrong — very wrong — on the details. But conservatives need to imitate his model. For instance, electricity prices are too high — the villain is the left’s push for expensive and unreliable green energy, and the solution is ending federal subsidies for wind and solar. States also need to repeal their renewable portfolio standards. Car prices are too high — the villain is anti-fossil fuel regulations pushed by Democrats, and the solution is requiring Congress to authorize any restrictions on gas-powered vehicles. Now one challenge for conservatives is that real solutions can take years to work, while socialists promise quick fixes and gimmicks. But by identifying the root cause of a problem, conservatives make a much stronger argument. It isn’t enough to point out the many problems with socialist proposals. Conservatives also need to provide villains and solutions. Victor Joecks is a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI
Fauci’s cowardly Fifth Amendment evasion
The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive.
THERE’S NOTHING inherently wrong with invoking the Fifth Amendment. The perception that anyone who pleads the Fifth to protect themselves from self-incrimination is only hiding guilt is wrong. Innocent people are often intimidated or tricked by those in power into implicating themselves. Others might get nervous under oath and worry about misspeaking under pressure. Former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Anthony Fauci, who appeared before the Senate committee investigating the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is not one of those people. There is some legal question as to whether a person who has received a pardon loses his ability to plead the Fifth since the assertion is predicated on shielding them from future crimes, like lying to Congress. Fauci, after all, could admit to personally creating COVID-19 in a lab and then spreading it himself, and there is still nothing the government could do to him. Former President Joe Biden gave him an unprecedented pardon for any federal offenses related to any pandemic-era actions between Jan. 1, 2014, and Jan. 19, 2025. The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive. It’s difficult to imagine anything that could incentivize criminality and abuse of power with the government more than knowing a president will give you a get-out-of-jail-free card at the end of a term. The entire point of the hearings, Fauci
contends, is to trap him. Fauci says Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), who released a cache of diary entries and emails earlier this week, says he is obsessed with prosecuting him, evident by his “repeated slanderous comments” and release of unredacted personal documents, which were aimed at “embarrassing and intimidation.” Perhaps. But Fauci, who was employed by the federal government for 54 years, director of the NIAID for 38, has likely delivered thousands of speeches and appeared in front of Congress somewhere around 250 times. If he can’t offer clear and honest testimony under oath, who can? The fact is that being truthful under oath would mean explaining several things: Why, though Fauci knew COVID-19’s fatality rate was likely at 0.2%-0.3% and “acting like a bad influenza,” he told Congress that it was “10 times more lethal than the seasonal flu.” Why, after privately expressing frustration regarding the efficacy of lockdowns in flattening the curve, Fauci not only advocated closing businesses and schools nationally but framed anyone who was skeptical as villains. Why Fauci publicly contended that he had absolutely nothing to do with school closings yet privately took credit for frightening the mayor of New York, the governor of California and others into shutting down their states. Why Fauci privately acknowledged that the wet market in Wuhan “was not the source” of the virus but the “amplifier”
and yet continued contending, with great scientific certitude, that the virus jumping from bats to humans was “absolutely totally compatible” with the available evidence, but the theory of the virus being created in the Wuhan Institute of Virology was a “very, very, very, very remote possibility.” Committee Democrats, incidentally, declined to rebut any Republican criticisms aimed at Fauci or speak on any of the problems of the pandemic response. Many of these Democrats had not treated Fauci’s word as indisputable truth and smeared anyone who questioned his authoritarian remedies as if they were members of a death cult. Instead, Democrats used their time to highlight the spread of measles cases under anti-vaccine activist and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. It’s an important topic. The problem, though, is that Fauci and other public health officials who lied and manipulated the public under the banner of “science” have a lot to do with the collapse of trust in the institutions that help fight measles outbreaks. Failing to get any accountability or full transparency from those who botched the COVID pandemic response only fuels more suspicion and skepticism about vaccines. And, make no mistake, avoiding accountability and transparency are the real reasons Fauci took the Fifth. David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
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US companies stepping up to cut reliance on China for critical minerals used in key weapons The transition will likely take years despite Pentagon funding and tight deadlines
Plus, the company says the surge in demand for magnets has worked in its favor. Some concerns remain. The U.S. is dependent on imports of the critical mineral tungsten, with China controlling roughly 80% of the global mine supply and an even larger share of processing, according to Brodie Sutherland, CEO of Patriot Critical Minerals Corp. Sutherland, whose company seeks to explore and mine tungsten in the U.S., is concerned that America will not be able to get by without China-sourced tungsten after a Pentagon-imposed deadline of Jan. 1, 2027. Efforts to ramp up U.S. production will take years, he said, and in the meantime, the Pentagon and its defense contractors will need to rely on existing inventories, expanded recycling and limited non-China sources.
By Didi Tang, Josh Funk and Rodrique Ngowi The Associated Press EXETER, N.H. — Tucked inside a New Hampshire office park, a small refinery zaps mining waste with electricity to tease out critical minerals needed for key U.S. weapons systems, including missiles used in the Iran war. It can play a part in helping America break the chokehold China has on processing critical minerals, but it will take up to a year and a half to build a new factory as the Trump administration pushes to expand domestic production. The company, Phoenix Tailings, recently got a $500 million loan from the Pentagon to ramp up its work, after starting out eight years ago as a backyard lab seeking a cleaner metal-refining method. It’s just the latest critical minerals company the government has backed. The task that workers carry out in heat-resistant suits and sealed face masks has become more urgent as the Iran conflict draws down key munitions such as Tomahawk cruise missiles and THAAD interceptors. While the White House is demanding military contractors speed up production, it’s also imposing stricter rules banning them from sourcing critical minerals from China. “It will be a tall order and a challenge to replenish these stocks and scale up in the timeframe needed to meet defense demand and regulations,” said Anthony Balladon, chief commercial officer and a co-founder of Phoenix Tailings. He said the company is working hard to boost capacity. Although the U.S. is quickening its pace to build domestic supplies of critical minerals free of control from its most formidable rival, it will likely take years for companies across the industry to build new mines and boost production of the high-powered magnets essential in many high-tech applications. Extracting some of the hard-to-pronounce elements from existing mine waste can help satisfy the growing demand in the meantime, but it will likely take several companies to do that. Critical minerals industry has big plans, but it will take time to ramp up Phoenix Tailings taps waste from traditional mining as well as recycled magnets and disk drives as raw materials, working to counter China in processing where it has the strongest hold on the supply chain. The company based in the Boston-area city of Woburn,
PHOTOS BY RODRIQUE NGOWI / AP PHOTO
A worker drives a forklift at the Phoenix Tailings refinery July 22 in Exeter, New Hampshire. Massachusetts, plans to build a bigger facility to extract and produce critical metals needed in not only defense but also the aerospace and automotive industries. “We call it the freedom facility because, ultimately, the purpose of this is to ensure that the entire Western Hemisphere, the United States and its allies are free of Chinese influence within the rare-earth space,” Balladon said. On a recent afternoon, two technicians in heat-resistant hazmat suits were operating an apparatus of cylinders, tubes, funnels and control panels set up on a platform with bright yellow railings. A chemical process involving electricity removes oxygen and turns the material into a grayish metal that can be used to make the extremely strong permanent magnets used in fighter jets, missiles, radar systems and drones. The metals that Phoenix Tailings refines and other critical minerals play “an outsized role” in defense systems, Balladon said. A $150 million weapons system won’t work if it’s missing critical minerals that may be worth only $20,000 to $30,000, he said. The defense sector is particularly reliant on the metal samarium and needs 50 to 100 tons each year, but U.S. capacity is very limited, he said. Phoenix Tailings is among the few companies capable of producing the final metal, according to Balladon, but its capacity is only about 440 pounds a year. He said the company will scale up to about 5 tons in the next three months but that it will be next year or 2028 before it reaches its goal of 120-ton capacity.
A worker uses a drill with a metal brush attachment to polish an ingot of rare earth metal known as neodymium-praseodymium oxide. Another U.S. magnet maker looks to France for raw materials Arnold Magnetic Technologies for years relied on China for samarium to produce the extremely strong, stable-in-high-temperatures magnet that goes into precision-guided missiles such as Tomahawks. That doesn’t work anymore. For Arnold, the solution to getting the critical minerals it needs has come from a relic of Europe’s past rare-earth industry — abandoned mining dirt in the French city of La Rochelle. Solvay, a Belgium-headquartered chemical company, stopped separating and processing rare earths from the mined dirt in the 2000s. That was when China was building up most of the world’s processing capacity with a determination to dominate the industry. China weaponized that
near-monopoly last year by choking off its flow of processed critical materials and forcing the U.S. government to back off during a trade war. Solvay then restarted work and has added other rare earths this year, including samarium. “This ramp-up is driven by several factors: rapidly growing demand for permanent magnets, increased geopolitical focus on supply chain security, and strong customer demand in Europe and the United States for more diversified, resilient and traceable sources of supply,” a Solvay spokesperson said. For Arnold Magnetic Technologies, paying more to get its supply from Solvay instead of China has not been a deal-breaker, because the samarium-cobalt magnets it makes account for only a small cost in a weapon system, said Arnold CEO Matt Blake. “They are not the absolute cost drivers,” he said.
The Iran war, Trump’s China order create pressure, opportunity The need to increase production has become more urgent as renewed fighting with Iran digs into the U.S. military’s already diminished stockpiles of advanced missile interceptors, including Patriots and THAADs, according to a recent analysis from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington, D.C., think tank. It also has raised concerns that the military would have diminished firepower in any potential future conflict with China. CSIS warned in May that it could take at least three years to replenish stockpiles of Tomahawks, Patriots and THAADs, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense interceptors. At the same time, President Donald Trump has announced stricter controls on defense contractors sourcing critical materials from China. “It is the policy of the United States that not only the finished equipment deployed by our military, but also the critical materials and components necessary to manufacture, maintain, sustain, and repair that equipment, are sourced domestically or from allied nations,” the July 20 executive order says. Lockheed Martin, which makes THAADs and many other weapons systems, said, “We continuously assess the global rare earth supply chain to ensure access to critical materials that support our customers’ missions.” Several other major U.S. defense contractors, including Raytheon Technologies and Northrop Grumman, didn’t respond to requests for comment. Balladon, of Phoenix Tailings, was confident in U.S. companies. “Ultimately, with the right support and partners across the industry, we think we can make it happen,” he said.
IntegrityOpen Open ArmsEmployee Residents of the Month Integrity Employee of the Arms Month Residentof ofthe theMonth Month Robert General has been a resident at Open Arms since August 2021. He was born in South Carolina, relocated to Richmond Virginia and later moved to North Carolina. Robert enjoys BINGO, Samantha HɈLJ[PVUH[LS` RUV^U church and knitting. He is a joy to have here at HZ ¸:HT¹ PZ H Open Arms Retirement Center.
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HOKE SPORTS NCHSAA selects next commissioner The transition for the governing body will take place across a couple of months North State Journal staff
COURTESY NCHSAA
Brad Alford
CHAPEL HILL — Brad Alford will be the next commissioner of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association, replacing retiring Que Tucker on Oct. 1. Alford is director of the Office of Athletics for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, where he oversees statewide governance and administration of interscholastic athletics for North Car-
olina’s public schools. He also serves as the state superintendent’s designee for interscholastic athletics and represents NCDPI on the NCHSAA board of directors. Beginning as an intern in 2010, Alford spent nearly 15 years in various roles with the NCHSAA. Alford will be part of a transition period beginning Aug. 24, working alongside Tucker. He’ll be the association’s eighth commissioner for an organization that is more than 100 years old. Tucker has been commissioner since 2015. According to the NCHSAA, Alford helped oversee championship operations, sport administration, compliance, governance and major statewide initiatives during his previous time with the association. He was a Southern Durham High School graduate before earning an undergraduate degree from Mount Olive and master’s degree in sport management from East Carolina.
Mayfield feels ‘disrespected’ by Buccaneers ownership after failing to agree on new contract The former Panthers quarterback will play out the final season of his contract By Rob Maaddi The Associated Press TAMPA, Fla. — Baker Mayfield feels “disrespected” by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and is focused on playing his best football. The two-time Pro Bowl quarterback didn’t get the contract extension he sought and plans to play out the final season of his three-year, $100 million deal. “I’ve been pretty up front and honest about my feelings about Tampa, it being home for our family, raising kids here,” Mayfield said. “We love it here. I wanted a deal done and set the deadline and told them it was going to be all ball after that, and I did mean that. I don’t know if they thought I was gonna take some of the offers that they gave. “I’m at the point in my career, understanding what I’ve brought to this franchise. One, I’m very thankful for the chance they gave me — do not get me wrong on that. But I also know, I really know what I’ve brought to this franchise, leadership-wise and even play-wise. It’s been some of the best years of my career, and I think it’s only going to trend upwards.” Mayfield, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft by Cleveland, revived his career in Tampa Bay after replacing Tom Brady in 2023. He made the Pro Bowl in each of his first two seasons while leading the Bucs to consecutive NFC South titles. He was an MVP candidate through the first half of last sea-
“Money should never be the motivation in football. It’s how do I help this team win?” Baker Mayfield son when the team started 6-2 but struggled with injuries and tailed off. “It’s disappointing in that regard, to feel disrespected a little bit,” he said. “That’s really the disappointing part, to feel undervalued after thinking you’ve earned it. This is not a ‘poor me’ thing. There’s a lot of other people who have it way worse off. But I can sit here and look at other quarterbacks and peers and evaluate myself based on that and put myself in certain categories that I deserved to be compensated for that. “I think I’m a franchise quarterback. I’ve been told I’m a franchise quarterback. It’s been said publicly from ownership down here, and to not have a deal done is very disappointing.” Mayfield had set a deadline on getting a new contract by the start of training camp. He said he addressed his teammates to let them know he won’t let the issue become a distraction. He also doesn’t need it to motivate him. “Money should never be the motivation in football,” he said. “It’s how do I help this team win? It’s never going to be the motivation for me. When it comes to having a chip on your shoulder and all that, for me it just puts me in the mindset of betting on myself. That’s something
I’m pretty familiar with, and it’s a good place to be. As a highly competitive guy, sometimes you have to put yourself backed into a corner and fight your way out. I have a lot of guys and a lot of staff around me that are with me, so I’m not alone in it. We’re fighting for the same goal, and that’s to be playing in February.” If Mayfield plays like he did in 2024 — 4,500 yards passing, 41 touchdown passes, 71.4% completion rate, 106.8 passer rating — the Buccaneers likely will have to pay him even more than he commands now. A contract that averages between $50 million and $55 million is considered to be Mayfield’s current range. “Baker hasn’t missed a beat or changed one bit through anything that’s going on,” offensive lineman Ben Bredeson said. “He’s still our quarterback, he’s still the same leader, friend, guy that we all love. When he says it’s all about ball, he means it. He’s probably one of the most consistent and locked-in individuals I’ve ever had the chance to play with. It’s an honor going to work with him every day, and no matter what’s happening outside of the building, he has not changed one bit and is ready to go at all times.” Two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Vita Vea is also unhappy with his contract situation as he enters the final year of his deal. He has missed the first two days of practice with a back injury. “It’s all about winning here now and what we’re going to do and hopefully gets his back fixed and gets his deal done,” Mayfield said. “Vita deserves that. He’s the anchor of our defense. I hope they take care of him.”
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
The Sandhills Bogeys
OLD NORTH STATE LEAGUE / FACEBOOK
2026 Old North State League The Sandhills Bogeys won the 2026 Old North State League in one of the most dominant summer performances in college wood-bat league history. Sandhills finished with a 42-4 record, 28-3 in division and 24-1 at home. After finishing the regular season on a 17-game winning streak, the Bogeys eliminated the Oak Island Loggerheads with a 4-3 win to take the Coastal Division title. They then swept the best-of-three Eastern Championship Series over the Edenton Steamers, winning 8-3 and 10-5. The best-of-three championship series was also a sweep, with Sandhills taking out the Clayton Clovers, 8-4 and 14-2. It was their second league title in three years of existence.
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
SIDELINE REPORT
Women’s Professional Baseball League debuts in front of enthusiastic crowd
NBA
The league is the first pro women’s baseball league in the U.S. in 30 years
Green agrees to 1-year, $27.7M contract to remain with Warriors San Francisco Draymond Green has reportedly agreed to a one-year, $27.7 million deal to return to the Golden State Warriors. Green will sign the deal that essentially matches the deal he opted out of last month before the Warriors made an unsuccessful bid to sign LeBron James. Green is now set to play his 15th season with the Warriors. If he plays in 51 games, he will join Stephen Curry as the only players in franchise history to appear in at least 1,000 contests.
By Jay Cohen The Associated Press SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Sarah Hodel and Rachel Koehler arrived at Robin Roberts Stadium more than four hours before the first game of the Women’s Professional Baseball League. Once inside, Hodel stopped periodically for pictures as she walked along the concourse. She wanted to savor every moment. “Back in high school I was on my speech team, and my informative speech was on women in baseball,” said Hodel, a 43-year-old athletic trainer from Duluth, Minnesota. “So as soon as I saw this happening a couple years ago it was my goal to come.” That moment finally arrived, when Mo’ne Davis and the Los Angeles Queens rallied for a 10-8 victory over Denae Benites and the New York Heights in a rainy debut for the first women’s professional baseball league in the United States in almost 30 years. “Growing up I played softball,” said Koehler, 33, of St. Paul, Minnesota. “I wanted to play baseball because going professional was always like the dream, but there (were) no opportunities. ... So now that that’s actually an opportunity and something that girls can look up to, I think is amazing.” Maggie Foxx picked up the league’s first hit on a two-run single for Los Angeles in the
NFL
Vikings suspend new DB coach Alexander for 3 weeks following drunken driving charge The Minnesota Vikings suspended defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander for three weeks without pay following a drunken driving charge in April. Alexander’s suspension will be in effect until Aug. 13, two days before their first preseason game. Alexander, a Carolina Panthers player in 2010, pled guilty July 16 to a gross misdemeanor charge of third-degree driving while impaired. He was arrested at about 4 a.m. after his vehicle was stopped in the middle of an intersection in a Minneapolis suburb. He was allegedly unresponsive and failed field sobriety tests.
LEXIE KNIGHT / AP PHOTO
New York Heights’ Natsuki Yonetani, right, celebrates while Los Angeles Queens’ Amira Hondras, left, fails to tag her during the third inning of the inaugural Women’s Professional Baseball League game. first inning. Benites connected for the WPBL’s first homer, a two-run drive to center in the bottom of the fourth. The Queens trailed 8-4 before scoring two runs in the sixth and four more in wet and windy conditions for the final frame of the seven-inning contest. “When I walked on the field I started crying because of how much this moment meant and how much it meant to everybody,” Foxx said. “It means everything to us.” A steady rain fell for much of the day, soaking the 101-year-old home of the WPBL’s inaugural season. But much of the crowd of more than 4,000 started lining up hours before the game. The line for the main merchandise booth stretched all the way to the outfield along one side of the ballpark.
“Having a daughter, it’s really exciting to give her exposure to female professional athletes,” said Antonietta Mabry, 47, an accountant from Columbus, Ohio. “It’s such a rare thing, so it’s really cool to give her some really positive female role models and examples.” Mabry was accompanied by her husband, Jason, and their daughter, Rosalee. Nine-year-old Mabry got her glove autographed by San Francisco second baseman Amanda Gianelloni. The Firebells and Boston Hunters — the league’s other two teams — play on Sunday. A couple of players from each team helped the grounds crew pull the tarp off the field after the rain subsided. “I’m excited to be here because I play softball and I really like it and it’s really cool that I get
to see professional women play,” Rosalee Mabry said. The WPBL paid tribute to the past, present and future of women’s baseball during a rain-delayed pregame ceremony. The crowd cheered as the lineups for the Queens and Heights were announced. But the biggest ovation of the night was for 99-year-old Maybelle Blair, who threw a ceremonial first pitch to San Francisco’s Kelsie Whitmore, one of the biggest stars of the WPBL. Blair, who serves on a WPBL advisory board, played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, which ran from 1943-54 and inspired the 1992 movie, “A League of Their Own.” “I think that’s pretty incredible,” Benites said. “Maybelle’s been sticking with us since the beginning of this journey. She’s paved a path for us, really. ... She’s a special person, and I’m so happy that she got to make it out here and do that today.” Lindsey Keirsey, 42, a high school history teacher in Fenton, Missouri, said she is obsessed with the AAGPBL and “A League of Their Own.” She attended the game with her husband, Drew, 43, and their four children, Hadley, 17, Nolan, 15, Elam, 11, and Abbott, 10. “We go to St. Louis Cardinals games all the time,” Hadley Keirsey said. “As much as I love baseball, I think it’s an amazing opportunity to see so many women be able to play and just break ground like that. Even though it’s just a sport, I think that if we can do things like this and let women play in sports like this, women can do so many more things.”
Dodgers land Cy Young ace Skubal in deadline deal Los Angeles sent three prospects to Detroit By Josh Dubow The Associated Press SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired the biggest prize on the trade deadline market, getting two-time reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers. Skubal got the news during the game and was emotional after the game as he prepared to leave the team that drafted him in 2018 and developed him into a star to join the two-time defending World Series champions. “I’m excited to be a Dodger,” he said. “I’m excited to get down there and meet all those guys and chase three championships in a row. That’s hard to do, so I’m so
excited to be a part of that. It’s a lot of different emotions. Definitely kind of a roller coaster a little bit.” Skubal is the latest star to join the high-priced roster for the Dodgers that already has big-name players like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Mookie Betts. The Dodgers are in first place in the NL West and were already the favorites to become the first team to three-peat since the New York Yankees from 1998-2000 before adding Skubal. They began the season with a $323.3 million opening-day payroll for their 40-man roster and a $163.7 million tax for a $487.1 million total. They will pay Skubal about $9.5 million for the remainder of the season. The Tigers would receive three minor league prospects in right-handers River Ryan and
Brady Smith and outfielder Zyhir Hope. Skubal is eligible for free agency after the World Series. He has a $32 million salary, a record total in arbitration and is expected to sign a massive contract in the offseason. The 29-year-old lefty said in July it was his preference to finish the season with the Tigers and to compete for a World Series. Skubal took the loss in the decisive Game 5 of the division series against Cleveland in 2024 and then got a no-decision in a 15-inning loss to Seattle in Game 5 of the division series last year. He said it was “very tough” to leave the Tigers having fallen short of the goal of winning a title. “Ever since that ’24 Game 5, the failure that I experienced on the mound, I’ve used that as fuel to try and bring a World Series to the city of Detroit. I truly did,” he
said. “That whole offseason I’ve never been more motivated and then go in and we lose Game 5 again. That failure kind of sparks some more motivation, just to dig deeper and see how good you can truly be. The goal was always to win a World Series for the city, for the organization that took a chance on me. It’s tough. I love all those guys in there. They’re some of my best friends.” The Tigers got off to a rough start and are currently 21⁄2 games out of the last wild-card spot in the American League. “It’s crazy. Going into the season, this isn’t what I planned on doing,” Skubal said. “But circumstances change, situations change, and I’m very appreciative of everything the Tigers have done for me.” “I’ve watched this guy rise to the top of the sport,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “He’s carried
us a lot. I’ll forever be grateful that our paths crossed and the things that he did for this organization and for a couple of playoff teams. His presence, his work ethic, his example, his dominance. There’s so much to go through, it’s hard to capture in one quote or kind of one setting. But I’m very grateful that I was able to manage him for the time that I did.” Skubal is 7-5 this season with a 2.79 ERA and 116 strikeouts in 962/3 innings. He is 61-42 with a 3.04 ERA over seven seasons, all in Detroit. In two postseasons, Skubal is 2-1 with a 2.04 ERA in six starts. Skubal had a minimally invasive surgery May 6 to remove a loose body from his pitching elbow and returned to pitch on June 13. “The way the surgery went is exactly how it was supposed to go,” he said in July.
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
obituaries
David Chesnutt Dec. 8, 1954 – July 25, 2026 David Chesnutt passed on July 25, 2026, at the age of 71. Born on December 8, 1954, David is remembered with a personal and intimate tone.
Raymond McLean Aug. 15, 1951 – July 28, 2026 Mr. Raymond McLean, age 74, went home to rest with his Heavenly Father on Tuesday, July 28, 2026. The Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, August 6; 1:00 PM at the Pauline T. Buie Chapel. Visitation will be held prior to the service from 10:00 AM until 1:00 PM. Raymond will be greatly missed.
Robert “Bobby” Spencer July 27, 1946 – July 29, 2026 Mr. Robert “Bobby” Spencer, of Raeford, NC, passed away at his home on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at the age of 80. Bobby was born on July 27, 1946, to the late Sam and Eva Cheeks Spencer in Raeford, NC. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Johnny, Jimmy, and Ricky Spencer; and his sisters, Rhonda Velevis and Linda Barefoot. A devoted husband, father, and grandpa, Bobby was a hardworking man of quiet strength and a generous heart. He found much joy in life’s simple pleasures, whether hunting for treasures at yard sales, tending his garden, or patiently tinkering with a lawn mower. He poured his heart into his family and approached every day with a hands-on work ethic. He was the kind of person who could fix just about anything. Though he will be greatly missed and forever cherished by all who knew him, the love he gave will remain with his family and friends always. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Betty Spencer of Raeford; two sons, Robert Spencer, Jr. and wife, Shana, of Pembroke, and Gary Spencer and wife, Natalie, of Raeford; and one daughter, Debra Beasley and husband, Shawn, of Raeford. He was blessed with nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sister, Kathy Johnson and husband, Terry, of Raeford. A visitation will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Raeford Evangelical Methodist Church, 379 W. Palmer St., Raeford, NC 28376. A funeral service will follow at 12:00 p.m. at the church with Pastor Roger Burns officiating. Burial will immediately follow the service at Pittman Grove Baptist Church Cemetery, 4921 Pittman Grove Church Rd., Raeford, NC 28376.
Robert McLean Dec. 18, 1958 – July 28, 2026 Mr. Robert Donell McLean, affectionately known throughout the years as Big Rob, Truck, Cutman, Willy Wonka, and the Undertaker, was born in Hoke County on December 18, 1958, to the late John Henry McLean and the late Elizabeth McLean. Surrounded by loved ones, Robert passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories and countless acts of kindness. He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Elizabeth McLean, brothers, Sterlyn, Henry, Archie, a sister, Irene McLean, nephews, Kendrick McLean and Anthony Baldwin, a special cousin, James Lester McLean, a brother-in-law, Donald Ray Pittman, his uncle Zebede Graham. Robert is survived and missed by his loving wife of 41 years: Ruth, his son: Marcus (Farren), two daughters: Dakota (Merrick), and Makiera. Robert will forever be cherished by his six grandchildren: Seryniti, Corneilus, Jasmine, MaShya, Makai, Noah, he’s also remembered by his sisters: Annie Bethune, Betty Allen (Douglas), Angie (Steve), one aunt: Lula Jane Barney, motherin-law: Betty Ruth Wheeler, a brother-in-law: Jimmy (Blondie), a special niece: Oneisha, special friends of the family: The Brown family, Sandra Johnson (Bill), Joyce Moore, along with a host of other relatives and friends. Robert attended school in Hoke County, and he was raised in the church. He was taught the Word. He knew the Word and accepted Christ at a young age. Throughout his life, Robert worked as a bus driver for Hoke County Schools, in the agriculture fields, manufacturing, and mortuary services. Robert was a strong, independent, and devoted man. He loved everyone and would give his last. He loved God and took care of his family. To know Robert was to love him. Robert loved to joke and laugh. He was an all-around man. Some of his favorite sayings were “A mind is a terrible thing to waste”, “10-4”, “Sho ya right”, “it’s showtime”, “talking to the man on the moon”, “Shiiinee” and “case closed”. Robert will be remembered for the lives he impacted and changed. His legacy will live on.
Kay Granger, first Republican woman from Texas to serve in the House, dead at 83 She rose from high school teacher to chair the powerful House Appropriations Committee
By Jamie Stengle The Associated Press DALLAS — Kay Granger, the first Republican woman from Texas to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and who served for nearly three decades, died Sunday at the age of 83, her son J.D. Granger said. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said in a post on X that throughout her career, Granger “broke barriers for women in public service.” He added that she “was a dear friend who will be greatly missed.” Granger, who began her career as a high school teacher and a businesswoman, accomplished many firsts as a politician. She was the first woman elected mayor of Fort Worth, Texas, and the first Republican woman to chair one of the most powerful committees in Congress, the House Appropriations Committee. First elected to the House in 1996, she did not seek reelection in 2024 and experienced worsening “health challenges” in her final months in Congress, according to a statement her office released in December 2024. Granger, who didn’t cast a vote in Washington after July 2024, didn’t specify or elaborate on those health challenges but said in the statement that frequent travel had become “both difficult and unpredictable” since early September of that year. Granger graduated from Texas Wesleyan University in 1965 and considered a career in fashion design but followed her mother into teaching. She worked in the Birdville school district for nine years, teaching English literature and journalism, according to a profile compiled for the publication “Women in Congress, 1917-2006.” A divorce would lead to a career change. To earn more money, Granger worked from home selling insurance. Her mother, Alliene Mullendore, who moved in with Granger after a stroke, helped keep an eye on the kids. Granger eventually built a successful insurance business that she managed for more than two decades. “I was a high school teacher
“I was a high school teacher with three children, a 2-year-old and 6-month-old twins, and my husband left. It’s the reason I talk so much to working mothers ... you just fight your way through the day.” Kay Granger, U.S. representative with three children, a 2-year-old and 6-month-old twins, and my husband left,” Granger told The Hill in a 2008 profile. “It’s the reason I talk so much to working mothers ... you just fight your way through the day.” Granger got her political start serving on Fort Worth’s zoning commission and then won election to the city council. She went on to win election as the city’s first female mayor, serving from 1991 to 1995. Granger’s “Code: Blue” programs included citizen patrol initiatives that halved the rampant crime rate and partnerships with the private sector that drew major businesses to the city. Her resuscitation of Fort Worth’s flagging economic fortunes drew national attention. In 1996, she was recruited by both parties to run for the House under their banner, and she won as a Republican. Upon entering Congress, she was named to an advisory board that consulted then-House Speaker Newt Gingrich. She also received seats on three committees: Budget, House Oversight, and Transportation and Infrastructure. She resigned those assignments as part of accepting a seat on the Appropriations Committee. On the committee, she focused on defense spending, including championing the production of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter in Fort Worth. When Republicans took charge of the House in 2023, Granger became the committee’s chair, where she sought to enact steeper nondefense spending cuts than the top-line numbers House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and President Joe Biden agreed to as part of avoiding an economically disastrous government default.
J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE / AP PHOTO
House Appropriations Committee Chair Kay Granger (R-Texas) and her panel begin work on fiscal 2024 spending bills at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., in June 2023.
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
STATE & NATION
Jackson joins lawsuit against DHS, FEMA over funding threat States must comply with federal election rules to receive counterterrorism funding
“The last time they tried this, we took them to court and won. … I expect we’ll beat them — again.”
By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal RALEIGH — Last week, Attorney General Jeff Jackson joined a multistate lawsuit against the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security for alleged threats to withhold 20% of state counterterrorism funding. According to grant requirements issued by FEMA, states must provide proof of compliance with federal election rules to receive full funding. “FEMA is threatening our counterterrorism funding again,” said Jackson in a press release. “The last time they tried this, we took them to court and won. Now they’re trying again, and I expect we’ll beat them — again. “Hopefully they get the message: Don’t threaten our first responders unless you’re ready for a fight.” North Carolina received more than $17 million through counterterrorism and emergen-
Jeff Jackson, North Carolina attorney general
COURTESY @NCAGO / X
North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson, pictured last month, joined several states in a lawsuit against FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security. cy preparedness programs last year. The money funds bomb squad equipment, active shooter exercises, cyberattack resistance, hurricane and natural disaster response, flood risk mitigation, wildfire management and search-and-rescue operations. The election security compliance mandates include:
• States must submit plans to use equipment that accepts hand-marked paper ballots rather than electronic systems using barcodes and QR codes. • Jurisdictions must conduct a manual audit of at least 5% of all cast ballots after every federal election. • States must use the federal Systematic Alien Verification
for Entitlements (SAVE) database to verify the citizenship of every voter and remove verified noncitizens. • States must use the SAVE database to verify the citizenship of individuals working at polling places or operating election systems. • Jurisdictions must match the number of participating voters with the total number of ballots counted. At the center of the issue is DHS needing to verify proof of compliance with the rules. If DHS fails to do so, FEMA will withhold 20% of a recipient’s total Homeland Security Grant Program funding. Additionally, DHS has a condition allowing the cancellation or withdrawal of grants if projects do not align with federal priorities. According to the press release, the requirements for ad-
ministering elections would interfere with the authority of the North Carolina State Board of Elections and county boards. The mandates would also require voting equipment in 13 rural North Carolina counties to be replaced after they had been certified by the state board. Jackson argues that the federal government could pull money during a response, which would hinder states’ planning public safety operations. He additionally stated that FEMA has no authority over elections, and that FEMA and DHS are violating the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) and the Spending Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The APA regulates how U.S. government agencies make regulations, handle legal disputes and listen to public feedback. The Spending Clause gives Congress the power to collect taxes and spend money to pay debt, defend the country and provide for general welfare. Previously, FEMA and DHS were sued in November 2025 and December 2025 by a coalition of states over withheld emergency management, public safety and climate resiliency grants. More than $17 million for North Carolina was withheld, and the court ordered FEMA to reinstate $200 million in canceled climate resiliency grants for North Carolina. The court rejected the conditions DHS and FEMA put on the funds, stating they were not “consistent with Congressional intent or FEMA’s mission.”
FBI investigates as Michigan joins Minnesota in reporting cyberattacks on water systems The attacks come amid federal warnings about Iranian hackers targeting water systems By Michael Casey The Associated Press MICHIGAN on Saturday joined Minnesota in reporting cyberattacks on nine of the state’s water systems, but an official said all systems were operating “safely.” Earlier this week, authorities said cyberattacks targeted more than 30 water systems in Minnesota. The source of the attacks is being investigated, but they came amid warnings that Iranian hackers have been focused on such systems. The reports in Michigan surfaced after the state received a federal cyber alert Tuesday about attempts to tamper with operational technology at water systems. Soon after, the state received “a small number of reports from Michigan communities indicating activity consistent with what federal agencies described,” said Dale George, the director of communications at the state’s Department
of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. He later said nine systems were impacted. “All systems continued to operate safely, issues were addressed by local operators, and there are no known impacts that posed a public health concern,” George said in a statement. The FBI, which is investigating, has not publicly identified a culprit, and a spokesperson declined to say last Thursday who the bureau thought might be responsible. The FBI, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and other agencies warned in an advisory last week that Iranian hackers have been targeting water and wastewater systems and the operational controls of other critical infrastructure sectors. “The FBI is aware of recent public reporting around Water and Wastewater (WWS) sectors,” the agency said in a statement Saturday. “The FBI and our interagency partners are fully engaged to protect critical infrastructure and we remain well-equipped to protect against cyber threats of all varieties.” Digital warfare has become ingrained in military conflict, and local water plants or healthcare facilities often lack
“All systems continued to operate safely, issues were addressed by local operators, and there are no known impacts that posed a public health concern.” ELLEN SCHMIDT / AP PHOTO
Cyberattacks on water systems are becoming more prevalent. the funds and know-how to install the latest software patches or take other security steps. That has made them a favorite target, both because of the relative ease of penetrating them and because of the panic such disruptions can cause. Iran’s interest in the operations of water systems inside the U.S. dates back years. In 2016, the Justice Department charged a group of Iranian hackers in connection with a cyberattack targeting a small dam near New York City. Minnesota IT Services said that as of last Thursday, there were no active requests from
Dale George, director of communications at Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy Minnesota communities for residents to modify usage of their drinking water. The state agency said most of the confirmed attacks involved technology that water systems use to remotely monitor and control equipment. It said that being impacted meant investigators confirmed there was malicious activity involving the system’s technology and didn’t mean every impacted community had their water service disrupted. For a few hours Monday, the city of Braham asked residents to minimize water use as it tried to determine why the wa-
ter plant was offline. The city of about 1,700 people, located about 70 miles north of Minneapolis, said in a news release that the water plant outage was due to a cyberattack, but it didn’t cause any issue with water quality. The city said the attackers shut down the operating controls that shut down the well and water treatment plant. That left the city for a time only able to provide residents with the water held in the water tower. In Plymouth, a city of about 80,000 located outside of Minneapolis, officials said on social media that their water infrastructure communications had been restored by Tuesday afternoon following a cyberattack. During a Cabinet meeting last Friday at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland, President Donald Trump claimed without evidence that recent cyberattacks in Minnesota were the fault of the state, including Democratic Gov. Tim Walz. Walz responded on social media, saying Trump “knows exactly who is responsible for this attack, and knows that other states were hit too.”
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VOLUME 11 ISSUE 24 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026 | MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM
SUBSCRIBE: 919-663-3232
MOORE COUNTY THE MOORE COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Mini moos Cows, horses, cowboys and cowgirls abounded at the annual Farmers Day Parade in Robbins on Saturday.
WHAT’S HAPPENING Divided federal appeals court says Trump administration wrong to terminate climate funds Washington, D.C. A federal appeals court has ruled that the Trump administration improperly ended a multibillion-dollar program for clean energy projects. This decision supports a lower court’s ruling that nonprofits chosen to run the Biden-era effort should have access to the funds. The ruling is temporarily on hold, allowing the Environmental Protection Agency time to appeal to the Supreme Court. The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, known as a “green bank,” was designed to finance small energy projects. The Trump administration accused the nonprofits of mismanagement and fraud, freezing the funds. The groups denied wrongdoing and sued, claiming legal violations.
Guard deployment to Washington, D.C., into 2029 will cost roughly $1.4B, estimate shows The extension of the National Guard deployment in Washington, D.C., until January 2029 will cost roughly $1.4 billion, according to a Defense Department estimate provided to Congress. The figure offers a glimpse of how much taxpayer money will be spent on a deployment that has been criticized by local officials as an infringement of their city’s autonomy and by Democrats who say it has militarized the streets of nation’s capital.
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Moore County Sheriff’s Office to host discussion on Flock cameras The community has raised many concerns related to privacy and constitutional rights By Ryan Henkel North State Journal CARTHAGE — Moore County will hold a public session to discuss Flock cameras later in the month. At the Moore County Board of Commissioners’ Aug. 4 meeting, Board Chair Nick Picerno stated that he had scheduled a meeting with the sheriff’s office to go over questions and concerns related to the Flock cameras. The meeting would be open to the public, he said. “As soon as we got the feeling that there were a lot of concerns with Flock and that there was a lot of good information, but also misinformation, as the chairman, I had a work session scheduled with
law enforcement,” Picerno said. According to Picerno, the meeting will be held at the Rick Rhyne Public Safety Center on Aug. 17 at 4 p.m. “I think it’s very important given the concern of our folks, and we do work for you, that you have that opportunity to come and hear answers to these questions that you have,” Picerno said. Concerns over Flock surveillance cameras have increased over the recent months throughout the country, and Picerno said it was important to both clear up misinformation as well as answer legitimate questions citizens have raised. In addition, the board approved an amendment to the contract with United Rental for the extension of their rental agreement for emergency pumps at the Water Pollution Control Plant. The emergency pumps were intended to briefly serve the
“I think it’s very important given the concern of our folks that you have that opportunity to come and hear answers to these questions that you have.” Chairman Nick Picerno plant in order for some electrical issues to be resolved while new aeration blowers were installed, however, the county ran into some issues with the new parts. “We were excited about the aeration blowers finally being delivered from Belgium, unfortunately, they sent the wrong size connection piece,” said Public Works Director Brian Patnode. “The new blowers are 16-inch and the old are 14-inch.
They were supposed to convert it during the manufacturing process, but they did not.” According to Patnode, the contract extension comes with a financial coverage of up to an additional $103,000 to cover potential costs associated with the extended rental. “We’re still in a holding pattern, working with the supplier and hoping they can help us get it here quickly and help us absorb some of these costs,” Patnode said. Due to the issues being caused by a manufacturing error, Picerno requested that the county attorney prepare a letter requesting the manufacturer provide a rebate in the amount of $103,000 to cover the extended rental costs. “This should not be on the rate payers in Moore County to fix their mistake,” Picerno said. The Moore County Board of Commissioners will next meet Aug. 18.
Stein, Jackson plan to hold Duke Energy ‘accountable’ in data center pledge More than 200 organizations have signed the Ratepayer Protection Pledge By Jessica Taylor For Stanly News Journal RALEIGH — Gov. Josh Stein and Attorney General Jeff Jackson urged Duke Energy to create a legally binding contract to abide by the promises it has made after joining the federal administration’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge. “Duke just promised the federal government that it won’t shift the cost of data centers onto families,” said Jackson in the press release. “We agree, but a promise in Washing-
“North Carolinians are struggling to make ends meet, and data centers must pay their own way to protect families from rising electricity costs.” Gov. Josh Stein ton doesn’t lower a power bill in North Carolina. We’re calling on Duke to make that same promise to the Utilities Commission, in writing, where it can be enforced.” “I am pleased to see that Duke Energy has signed on to the Ratepayer Protection
Pledge,” added Stein. “Now, Duke Energy must make that voluntary pledge real. “The North Carolina Utilities Commission and Duke Energy must create a legally binding large load tariff to charge data centers their full freight, and they must establish a program that allows data centers to directly select and pay for their generation,” said Stein. “North Carolinians are struggling to make ends meet, and data centers must pay their own way to protect families from rising electricity costs.” Duke Energy is the largest investor-owned electric utility in North Carolina, serving about 8.7 million electric customers and 1.6 million natural gas customers.
Last week, Duke Energy Carolinas, the Utilities Commission’s Public Staff and others reached a settlement to establish large load tariffs and new rules for data centers, according to the press release. Jackson will participate in the process and has urged the Utilities Commission to create a separate rate class for data centers and large energy users. The attorney general has further asked Duke to make realistic projections about data center growth and ensure that Duke will propose rules to have large companies bear the cost of infrastructure upgrades. Duke is additionally being urged to work with the Utilities See PLEDGE, page A2
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THURSDAY
8.6.26
“Join the conversation” North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Trip Hoffend, 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 MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, NC and at additional mailing offices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607
CRIME LOG July 27 • Eleazar Martinez Soria, 43, of Sanford, was arrested by NCHP for driving while impaired and no operator’s license. • Lena Hope Autry, 50, of Hamlet, was arrested by MCSO for misdemeanor larceny. • Monica Lynn Boyd, 51, of Candor, was arrested by MCSO for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. • Tyler James Dempsey, 33, of Charlotte, was arrested by Carthage PD for misdemeanor larceny. • Jeffrey Scott Jackson, 51, of Hamlet, was arrested by Taylortown PD for misdemeanor larceny. • Blake Ellis Porter, 27, of Spring Lake, was arrested by MCSO for robbery with a dangerous weapon and felony conspiracy. • Michael Todd Randolph, 64, of Seagrove, was arrested by MCSO for possession of a firearm by a felon; trafficking in opium or heroin; and possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver methamphetamine, and other charges. July 28 • Trey Derrell Dowd, 26, of Southern Pines, was arrested by MCSO for possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana, felony possession of marijuana and possession of marijuana paraphernalia, and other charges. • Trandon Leatrell Harris-Dowd, 23, of Lakeview, was arrested by MCSO for possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine, possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana and felony possession of cocaine, and other charges. • Dayquan Tyreek McRae, 27, of Laurinburg, was arrested by MCSO for misdemeanor larceny and possession of stolen goods/property. • Tyryk Najee White, 26, of Southern Pines, was arrested by MCSO for violating a domestic violence protective order and possession of marijuana. July 29 • Nazjionna Laprincess Nelson, 29, of Southern Pines, was arrested by MCSO for possession of a controlled substance on prison/jail premises. • Terwin Lamar Brown, 49, of Eagle Springs, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine; possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a controlled substance; and felony possession of cocaine, and other charges. July 30 • Joseph Emanuel Alley, 51, of Sanford, was arrested by MCSO for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Congressman Edwards quits reelection bid after committee recommends his censure The 11th District Republican’s behavior was deemed “beyond inappropriate”
moore
happening Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County.
Aug. 6
By Kevin Freking The Associated Press
Line Dancing Thursday
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Embattled North Carolina Republican congressman Chuck Edwards withdrew from his reelection campaign Wednesday, two days after the House Ethics Committee recommended he be censured for unprofessional and inappropriate conduct toward two young female aides in his office. The Ethics Committee recommended the censure, an act registering its deep disapproval of a lawmaker’s conduct that does not meet the threshold for expulsion, on Monday. The panel highlighted numerous examples of actions it considered improper, including Edwards providing the young women with lavish and recurrent gifts, making comments regarding their appearance and dress, inviting them to intimate dinners and vacations, and sending notes regarding his affection. According to North Carolina state law, a candidate who officially resigns their nomination can be replaced on the ballot by their party. Edwards, 65, denied that any of his conduct was intended as a sexual or romantic advance, but the committee said his behavior would “lead a reasonable observer to interpret it as such.” Edwards, who is serving his second term, said that he made the decision to drop his reelection bid after “much prayer and reflection” and that he would complete the current term. “Serving Western North Carolina has been the honor of my life,” he said in a post on X. “Thank you for your trust, prayers, and support. God bless WNC and America.” The Ethics Committee described Edwards’ actions as “beyond inappropriate” but said it found no evidence that he explicitly propositioned any person under his employ or engaged in any sexual activity with them. On Tuesday, a spokesperson for Sen. Ted Budd (R-N.C.) said “Senator Budd does not disclose his private conversations, but he finds the House Ethics report deeply concerning. He believes Rep. Edwards faces a significant uphill battle in his reelection bid, given that he was already trailing in the polls.”
Community event open to all ages and skill levels. Admission is $10.
Report found Edwards made aides “uncomfortable” The Ethics panel found no evidence Edwards explicitly propositioned any person un-
PLEDGE from page B1 Commission to establish its own means of generating power, given that its contracts are confidential. Earlier this month, Duke Energy lowered its proposed rate increase for residential customers, which received pushback from Jackson and consumers. The increase was lowered from 18% to 11.6%. The Ratepayer Protection Pledge was issued March 4 to ensure the growth of data centers does not increase electricity costs for American households and ratepayers. It asks that large energy users, such as data centers, generate and pay for their own power. Leading U.S. hyperscalers, including Amazon, Google, Meta, OpenAI and xAI, have signed on to the pledge. The pledge drives home five points: that companies will build, bring or buy new power supply and pay the full cost; pay for new power delivery infrastructure upgrades; pay
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WSP Center Auditorium 1250 W. New York Ave. Southern Pines NELL REDMOND / AP PHOTO
Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) listens to testimony at a House Judiciary Subcommittee on Oversight hearing in Charlotte on Sept. 29, 2025. der his employ or engaged in any sexual activity with them. But it also said he failed to adhere to “the spirit of rules prohibiting sexual harassment of and unwanted advances to House staffers.” “Both women were uncomfortable with his behavior (which they attempted to communicate) but were put in an untenable position by virtue of his status as their boss and a Member of Congress,” the Ethics Committee said in its 25-page report. “Representative Edwards was at minimum blind to that reality, and at worst, dismissive of the impact his inappropriate conduct had on the careers and well-being of two women on his staff.” One aide worked for the congressman’s office for about 21⁄2 years and the other for about three years. They no longer work there. The Ethics panel said they left due to conduct described in its report, although they provided other explanations to Edwards. In a 15-page response to the report, Edwards’ attorneys argued that the committee’s findings “exonerate” the congressman, pointing to the conclusion that he did not engage in sexual activity or explicitly proposition any staff member. His attorneys said the recommendation of censure was an “extraordinarily harsh and infrequent punishment” that is based on vague standards and adherence to the spirit of House rules, “not based on a direct violation of House rules addressing sexual misconduct.” House members are prohibited from engaging in sexual harassment or making unwanted advances toward their subordinates. The committee’s report detailed numerous gifts that Edwards gave the two aides, calling the gifts “beyond norms of professional behavior.” The women received jewelry totaling more than $1,000, designer purses, guns, shoes, flowers, a laptop and cell phone, as well
whether or not they use the power; invest in local communities where they build data centers; and coordinate with grid operators to contribute to a more reliable grid. Several companies across Michigan, Indiana, Georgia, Mississippi, Iowa, Louisiana and Texas have reached agreements that project billions in customer savings over the years or ensure that companies cover 100% of costs. “Big tech companies are committing to fully cover the cost of increased electricity production required for AI data centers, and that would be prices for American communities will not go up, but in many cases will actually come down,” said President Donald Trump during a roundtable about the pledge. Alongside corporations, 23 Republican governors announced their support for the pledge and signed it. When asked why Stein did not follow suit, senior press secretary Onotse Omoyeni explained that
as vacations, tickets to performances, and one-on-one dinners. House rules in place to protect staff The Edwards investigation came at a time of heightened scrutiny of lawmakers’ behavior toward female staffers following the resignations of Democratic Rep. Eric Swalwell and Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales. Both were facing calls for their expulsion before they stepped down earlier this year. In May, House leadership designated Reps. Kat Cammack (R-Fla.) and Teresa Leger Fernández (D-N.M.) to lead a bipartisan effort to combat sexual misconduct in Congress. Their work is focused on making Capitol Hill a safer job environment for women. The Ethics panel said Edwards cooperated with the investigation and acknowledged to them that at least some of the behavior at issue could be viewed as inappropriate. However, he has not acknowledged or taken responsibility for the harm he caused, the committee said. In his interview with the committee, the panel said Edwards repeatedly asserted that he knows well what constitutes “sexual harassment” and seemed to believe he had immunized himself from such a charge by avoiding inappropriate touching and sexual comments and occasionally telling the staffers that they were free to put up boundaries. “Despite the absence of an explicit proposition, a reasonable person could interpret Representative Edwards’ intimate and effusive attentions, where he prioritized the personal over the professional, as thinly veiled advances,” the committee wrote. It appears Edwards will stay in his seat in Congress through January, though his announcement may not save him from being censured once the House returns from its August break.
Stein’s office “did not receive outreach from the administration about signing this pledge.” Omoyeni emphasized that “the pledge aligns closely with the recommendations of the Governor’s Energy Policy Task Force” and that “Governor Stein believes data centers need to pay their way so that North Carolina residents don’t bear the costs of their massive energy consumption.” The Energy Policy Task Force is a bipartisan group established by Stein in August 2025. The task force recommends developing options for large load tariffs, facilities bringing in their own local power resources and load flexibility programs to keep ratepayers from paying infrastructure expansion costs. Omoyeni added that when Stein signed the state budget, it eliminated the sales and use tax exemption for data centers’ electricity use. She also stated that Stein supports phasing out the exemption in place for equipment purchases.
Aug. 7 First Friday Concert Series at Sunset Theatre 5 p.m. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the concert series that raises awareness and funds for the historic Sunrise Theater. Musical guests are Florencia & The Feeling. Artwork will also be on display downtown, and restaurants and stores will be open late for the event. 250 NW Broad St. Southern Pines
2026 Fine Arts Festival 6-8 p.m. Opening reception with local artists whose artwork is included in the exhibition in attendance. Sponsored by the Arts Council of Moore County since 1980. Attendance is free. Arts Council Galleries at Campbell House 482 E. Connecticut Ave. Southern Pines
Movie by the Lake: “Hoppers” 8:30-10:30 p.m. Family-friendly entertainment and concessions onsite. Aberdeen Lake Park 301 Lake Park Crossing
Arts Council Fine Arts Festival Opening Reception and Awards 6-8 p.m. The opening reception and awards ceremony for the 45th Annual Fine Arts Festival, with the awards presentation at 7 p.m. More than $2,800 in cash prizes and ribbons will be presented to regional artists. The juried exhibit runs July 22 through Aug. 26. Campbell House Galleries, Arts Council of Moore County 482 E. Connecticut Ave. Southern Pines
Aug. 10 SCC Jazz Band: Swingin’ in Summer (Third Concert) 6:30 p.m. The Sandhills Community College Jazz Band closes its summer concert series with a third performance at BPAC’s Owens Auditorium. Admission is free; tickets are required through TicketMeSandhills or 910-693-2516. Owens Auditorium, Bradshaw Performing Arts Center 3395 Airport Road Pinehurst
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THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | VICTOR JOECKS
The inadequacy of opposing socialism
It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back.
DON’T ASSUME socialism’s inevitable failures will stop it from spreading. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani recently announced that his government-run grocery stores will offer products at a 30% discount. The appeal of this plan is obvious. Everyone would like to pay less for milk, eggs and meat. That this plan won’t work is equally obvious to anyone who understands basic economics. Unfortunately, that excludes many New Yorkers and college graduates. Take a look at the details of Mamdani’s plan. He doesn’t want the city to run these stores. He’s seeking proposals from “qualified grocers or firms to serve as operators” of the stores. “The City sets the mission, the standards and the store design; experienced third-party operators run the stores day to day under those requirements,” a release from Mamdani’s office states. Further, “operators will be required to provide family-sustaining wages and benefits and commit to a Labor Peace Agreement so that workers who want to organize can do so without interference.” That Mamdani doesn’t trust NYC’s bureaucracy to run his grocery stores is smart, but it also shows why the government shouldn’t run grocery stores. Mamdani may want to seize the means of production, but he appears to recognize that government doesn’t do a great job of producing. His premise is also absurd. Most
grocery stores have profit margins of 1% to 3%. Mamdani wants an operator to run his stores with 30% discounts on major items and to allow a union to inflate worker pay. Maybe Mamdani can hire fairies to stock the shelves with products delivered by unicorns. But Mamdani doesn’t expect these operators to lower prices by 30%. The city’s request for proposals states the city “will provide financial support to the Operator(s) to mitigate operating deficits attributable to discounted Core Basket sales and enable cost-effective program delivery.” This subsidy would be in addition to NYC taxpayers paying $70 million to build five stores and then cover their rent and property taxes. Mamdani’s grocery store scheme won’t prove the superiority of socialism because he’s not even trying to lower costs. He’s content to disguise them with crony capitalism. It’s like someone who takes $20 from your wallet and then claims he’ll make you better off by giving you $10 back. If the grocery stores are “successful,” they’ll drive nearby privately run stores out of business, which will erode the tax base. That will require more government-subsidized grocery stores, driving more grocery stores out of business and further reducing tax revenues. This spiral will continue until New Yorkers come to their electoral senses or run out of toilet paper — proof a
country has fully implemented socialism. These are important arguments to make. But they aren’t enough. Mamdani gives his followers specifics that create a clear narrative. According to him, the problem is high prices — the villains are rich people, and the solution is government-run grocery stores. Now, Mamdani is wrong — very wrong — on the details. But conservatives need to imitate his model. For instance, electricity prices are too high — the villain is the left’s push for expensive and unreliable green energy, and the solution is ending federal subsidies for wind and solar. States also need to repeal their renewable portfolio standards. Car prices are too high — the villain is anti-fossil fuel regulations pushed by Democrats, and the solution is requiring Congress to authorize any restrictions on gas-powered vehicles. Now one challenge for conservatives is that real solutions can take years to work, while socialists promise quick fixes and gimmicks. But by identifying the root cause of a problem, conservatives make a much stronger argument. It isn’t enough to point out the many problems with socialist proposals. Conservatives also need to provide villains and solutions. Victor Joecks is a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI
Fauci’s cowardly Fifth Amendment evasion
The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive.
THERE’S NOTHING inherently wrong with invoking the Fifth Amendment. The perception that anyone who pleads the Fifth to protect themselves from self-incrimination is only hiding guilt is wrong. Innocent people are often intimidated or tricked by those in power into implicating themselves. Others might get nervous under oath and worry about misspeaking under pressure. Former Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases Anthony Fauci, who appeared before the Senate committee investigating the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, is not one of those people. There is some legal question as to whether a person who has received a pardon loses his ability to plead the Fifth since the assertion is predicated on shielding them from future crimes, like lying to Congress. Fauci, after all, could admit to personally creating COVID-19 in a lab and then spreading it himself, and there is still nothing the government could do to him. Former President Joe Biden gave him an unprecedented pardon for any federal offenses related to any pandemic-era actions between Jan. 1, 2014, and Jan. 19, 2025. The long-term consequences of blanket pardons are exceptionally corrosive. It’s difficult to imagine anything that could incentivize criminality and abuse of power with the government more than knowing a president will give you a get-out-of-jail-free card at the end of a term. The entire point of the hearings, Fauci
contends, is to trap him. Fauci says Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), who released a cache of diary entries and emails earlier this week, says he is obsessed with prosecuting him, evident by his “repeated slanderous comments” and release of unredacted personal documents, which were aimed at “embarrassing and intimidation.” Perhaps. But Fauci, who was employed by the federal government for 54 years, director of the NIAID for 38, has likely delivered thousands of speeches and appeared in front of Congress somewhere around 250 times. If he can’t offer clear and honest testimony under oath, who can? The fact is that being truthful under oath would mean explaining several things: Why, though Fauci knew COVID-19’s fatality rate was likely at 0.2%-0.3% and “acting like a bad influenza,” he told Congress that it was “10 times more lethal than the seasonal flu.” Why, after privately expressing frustration regarding the efficacy of lockdowns in flattening the curve, Fauci not only advocated closing businesses and schools nationally but framed anyone who was skeptical as villains. Why Fauci publicly contended that he had absolutely nothing to do with school closings yet privately took credit for frightening the mayor of New York, the governor of California and others into shutting down their states. Why Fauci privately acknowledged that the wet market in Wuhan “was not the source” of the virus but the “amplifier”
and yet continued contending, with great scientific certitude, that the virus jumping from bats to humans was “absolutely totally compatible” with the available evidence, but the theory of the virus being created in the Wuhan Institute of Virology was a “very, very, very, very remote possibility.” Committee Democrats, incidentally, declined to rebut any Republican criticisms aimed at Fauci or speak on any of the problems of the pandemic response. Many of these Democrats had not treated Fauci’s word as indisputable truth and smeared anyone who questioned his authoritarian remedies as if they were members of a death cult. Instead, Democrats used their time to highlight the spread of measles cases under anti-vaccine activist and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. It’s an important topic. The problem, though, is that Fauci and other public health officials who lied and manipulated the public under the banner of “science” have a lot to do with the collapse of trust in the institutions that help fight measles outbreaks. Failing to get any accountability or full transparency from those who botched the COVID pandemic response only fuels more suspicion and skepticism about vaccines. And, make no mistake, avoiding accountability and transparency are the real reasons Fauci took the Fifth. David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
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US companies stepping up to cut reliance on China for critical minerals used in key weapons The transition will likely take years despite Pentagon funding and tight deadlines
Some concerns remain. The U.S. is dependent on imports of the critical mineral tungsten, with China controlling roughly 80% of the global mine supply and an even larger share of processing, according to Brodie Sutherland, CEO of Patriot Critical Minerals Corp. Sutherland, whose company seeks to explore and mine tungsten in the U.S., is concerned that America will not be able to get by without China-sourced tungsten after a Pentagon-imposed deadline of Jan. 1, 2027. Efforts to ramp up U.S. production will take years, he said, and in the meantime, the Pentagon and its defense contractors will need to rely on existing inventories, expanded recycling and limited non-China sources.
By Didi Tang, Josh Funk and Rodrique Ngowi The Associated Press EXETER, N.H. — Tucked inside a New Hampshire office park, a small refinery zaps mining waste with electricity to tease out critical minerals needed for key U.S. weapons systems, including missiles used in the Iran war. It can play a part in helping America break the chokehold China has on processing critical minerals, but it will take up to a year and a half to build a new factory as the Trump administration pushes to expand domestic production. The company, Phoenix Tailings, recently got a $500 million loan from the Pentagon to ramp up its work, after starting out eight years ago as a backyard lab seeking a cleaner metal-refining method. It’s just the latest critical minerals company the government has backed. The task that workers carry out in heat-resistant suits and sealed face masks has become more urgent as the Iran conflict draws down key munitions such as Tomahawk cruise missiles and THAAD interceptors. While the White House is demanding military contractors speed up production, it’s also imposing stricter rules banning them from sourcing critical minerals from China. “It will be a tall order and a challenge to replenish these stocks and scale up in the timeframe needed to meet defense demand and regulations,” said Anthony Balladon, chief commercial officer and a co-founder of Phoenix Tailings. He said the company is working hard to boost capacity. Although the U.S. is quickening its pace to build domestic supplies of critical minerals free of control from its most formidable rival, it will likely take years for companies across the industry to build new mines and boost production of the high-powered magnets essential in many high-tech applications. Extracting some of the hard-to-pronounce elements from existing mine waste can help satisfy the growing demand in the meantime, but it will likely take several companies to do that. Critical minerals industry has big plans, but it will take time to ramp up Phoenix Tailings taps waste from traditional mining as well as recycled magnets and disk drives as raw materials, work-
PHOTOS BY RODRIQUE NGOWI / AP PHOTO
A worker drives a forklift at the Phoenix Tailings refinery July 22 in Exeter, New Hampshire.
The Iran war, Trump’s China order create pressure, opportunity
ing to counter China in processing where it has the strongest hold on the supply chain. The company based in the Boston-area city of Woburn, Massachusetts, plans to build a bigger facility to extract and produce critical metals needed in not only defense but also the aerospace and automotive industries. “We call it the freedom facility because, ultimately, the purpose of this is to ensure that the entire Western Hemisphere, the United States and its allies are free of Chinese influence within the rare-earth space,” Balladon said. On a recent afternoon, two technicians in heat-resistant hazmat suits were operating an apparatus of cylinders, tubes, funnels and control panels set up on a platform with bright yellow railings. A chemical process involving electricity removes oxygen and turns the material into a grayish metal that can be used to make the extremely strong permanent magnets used in fighter jets, missiles, radar systems and drones. The metals that Phoenix Tailings refines and other critical minerals play “an outsized role” in defense systems, Balladon said. A $150 million weapons system won’t work if it’s missing critical minerals that may be worth only $20,000 to $30,000, he said. The defense sector is particularly reliant on the metal samarium and needs 50 to 100 tons each year, but U.S. capacity is very limited, he said. Phoenix Tailings is among the few companies capable of producing the final metal, according to Balladon, but its capacity is only about 440 pounds a year. He said the company will scale up to about 5 tons in the next three months but that it will be next year or 2028 before
The need to increase production has become more urgent as renewed fighting with Iran digs into the U.S. military’s already diminished stockpiles of advanced missile interceptors, including Patriots and THAADs, according to a recent analysis from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a Washington, D.C., think tank. It also has raised concerns that the military would have diminished firepower in any potential future conflict with China. CSIS warned in May that it could take at least three years to replenish stockpiles of Tomahawks, Patriots and THAADs, or Terminal High Altitude Area Defense interceptors. At the same time, President Donald Trump has announced stricter controls on defense contractors sourcing critical materials from China. “It is the policy of the United States that not only the finished equipment deployed by our military, but also the critical materials and components necessary to manufacture, maintain, sustain, and repair that equipment, are sourced domestically or from allied nations,” the July 20 executive order says. Lockheed Martin, which makes THAADs and many other weapons systems, said, “We continuously assess the global rare earth supply chain to ensure access to critical materials that support our customers’ missions.” Several other major U.S. defense contractors, including Raytheon Technologies and Northrop Grumman, didn’t respond to requests for comment. Balladon, of Phoenix Tailings, was confident in U.S. companies. “Ultimately, with the right support and partners across the industry, we think we can make it happen,” he said.
A worker uses a drill with a metal brush attachment to polish an ingot of rare earth metal known as neodymium-praseodymium oxide. it reaches its goal of 120-ton capacity. Another U.S. magnet maker looks to France for raw materials Arnold Magnetic Technologies for years relied on China for samarium to produce the extremely strong, stable-in-high-temperatures magnet that goes into precision-guided missiles such as Tomahawks. That doesn’t work anymore. For Arnold, the solution to getting the critical minerals it needs has come from a relic of Europe’s past rare-earth industry — abandoned mining dirt in the French city of La Rochelle. Solvay, a Belgium-headquartered chemical company, stopped separating and processing rare earths from the mined dirt in the 2000s. That was when China was building up most of the world’s processing capacity with a determination to dominate the industry. China weaponized that
near-monopoly last year by choking off its flow of processed critical materials and forcing the U.S. government to back off during a trade war. Solvay then restarted work and has added other rare earths this year, including samarium. “This ramp-up is driven by several factors: rapidly growing demand for permanent magnets, increased geopolitical focus on supply chain security, and strong customer demand in Europe and the United States for more diversified, resilient and traceable sources of supply,” a Solvay spokesperson said. For Arnold Magnetic Technologies, paying more to get its supply from Solvay instead of China has not been a deal-breaker, because the samarium-cobalt magnets it makes account for only a small cost in a weapon system, said Arnold CEO Matt Blake. “They are not the absolute cost drivers,” he said. Plus, the company says the surge in demand for magnets has worked in its favor.
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MOORE SPORTS NCHSAA selects next commissioner The transition for the governing body will take place across a couple of months North State Journal staff
COURTESY NCHSAA
Brad Alford
CHAPEL HILL — Brad Alford will be the next commissioner of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association, replacing retiring Que Tucker on Oct. 1. Alford is director of the Office of Athletics for the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, where he oversees statewide governance and administration of interscholastic athletics for North Car-
olina’s public schools. He also serves as the state superintendent’s designee for interscholastic athletics and represents NCDPI on the NCHSAA board of directors. Beginning as an intern in 2010, Alford spent nearly 15 years in various roles with the NCHSAA. Alford will be part of a transition period beginning Aug. 24, working alongside Tucker. He’ll be the association’s eighth commissioner for an organization that is more than 100 years old. Tucker has been commissioner since 2015. According to the NCHSAA, Alford helped oversee championship operations, sport administration, compliance, governance and major statewide initiatives during his previous time with the association. He was a Southern Durham High School graduate before earning an undergraduate degree from Mount Olive and master’s degree in sport management from East Carolina.
Mayfield feels ‘disrespected’ by Buccaneers ownership after failing to agree on new contract The former Panthers quarterback will play out the final season of his contract By Rob Maaddi The Associated Press TAMPA, Fla. — Baker Mayfield feels “disrespected” by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and is focused on playing his best football. The two-time Pro Bowl quarterback didn’t get the contract extension he sought and plans to play out the final season of his three-year, $100 million deal. “I’ve been pretty up front and honest about my feelings about Tampa, it being home for our family, raising kids here,” Mayfield said. “We love it here. I wanted a deal done and set the deadline and told them it was going to be all ball after that, and I did mean that. I don’t know if they thought I was gonna take some of the offers that they gave. “I’m at the point in my career, understanding what I’ve brought to this franchise. One, I’m very thankful for the chance they gave me — do not get me wrong on that. But I also know, I really know what I’ve brought to this franchise, leadership-wise and even play-wise. It’s been some of the best years of my career, and I think it’s only going to trend upwards.” Mayfield, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft by Cleveland, revived his career in Tampa Bay after replacing Tom Brady in 2023. He made the Pro Bowl in each of his first two seasons while leading the Bucs to consecutive NFC South titles. He was an MVP candidate through the first half of last sea-
“Money should never be the motivation in football. It’s how do I help this team win?” Baker Mayfield son when the team started 6-2 but struggled with injuries and tailed off. “It’s disappointing in that regard, to feel disrespected a little bit,” he said. “That’s really the disappointing part, to feel undervalued after thinking you’ve earned it. This is not a ‘poor me’ thing. There’s a lot of other people who have it way worse off. But I can sit here and look at other quarterbacks and peers and evaluate myself based on that and put myself in certain categories that I deserved to be compensated for that. “I think I’m a franchise quarterback. I’ve been told I’m a franchise quarterback. It’s been said publicly from ownership down here, and to not have a deal done is very disappointing.” Mayfield had set a deadline on getting a new contract by the start of training camp. He said he addressed his teammates to let them know he won’t let the issue become a distraction. He also doesn’t need it to motivate him. “Money should never be the motivation in football,” he said. “It’s how do I help this team win? It’s never going to be the motivation for me. When it comes to having a chip on your shoulder and all that, for me it just puts me in the mindset of betting on myself. That’s something
I’m pretty familiar with, and it’s a good place to be. As a highly competitive guy, sometimes you have to put yourself backed into a corner and fight your way out. I have a lot of guys and a lot of staff around me that are with me, so I’m not alone in it. We’re fighting for the same goal, and that’s to be playing in February.” If Mayfield plays like he did in 2024 — 4,500 yards passing, 41 touchdown passes, 71.4% completion rate, 106.8 passer rating — the Buccaneers likely will have to pay him even more than he commands now. A contract that averages between $50 million and $55 million is considered to be Mayfield’s current range. “Baker hasn’t missed a beat or changed one bit through anything that’s going on,” offensive lineman Ben Bredeson said. “He’s still our quarterback, he’s still the same leader, friend, guy that we all love. When he says it’s all about ball, he means it. He’s probably one of the most consistent and locked-in individuals I’ve ever had the chance to play with. It’s an honor going to work with him every day, and no matter what’s happening outside of the building, he has not changed one bit and is ready to go at all times.” Two-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle Vita Vea is also unhappy with his contract situation as he enters the final year of his deal. He has missed the first two days of practice with a back injury. “It’s all about winning here now and what we’re going to do and hopefully gets his back fixed and gets his deal done,” Mayfield said. “Vita deserves that. He’s the anchor of our defense. I hope they take care of him.”
CHRIS O’MEARA / AP PHOTO
Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield takes a snap during training camp practice.
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
The Sandhills Bogeys
OLD NORTH STATE LEAGUE / FACEBOOK
2026 Old North State League The Sandhills Bogeys won the 2026 Old North State League in one of the most dominant summer performances in college wood-bat league history. Sandhills finished with a 42-4 record, 28-3 in division and 24-1 at home. After finishing the regular season on a 17-game winning streak, the Bogeys eliminated the Oak Island Loggerheads with a 4-3 win to take the Coastal Division title. They then swept the best-of-three Eastern Championship Series over the Edenton Steamers, winning 8-3 and 10-5. The best-of-three championship series was also a sweep, with Sandhills taking out the Clayton Clovers, 8-4 and 14-2. It was their second league title in three years of existence.
Darnold ready to help Seahawks defend crown The former Panthers quarterback is coming off a Super Bowl win By Andrew Destin The Associated Press SEATTLE — Less than six months removed from his first NFL title, Sam Darnold briefly chuckled to himself. Darnold was asked if he feels the narratives about him have gone by the wayside. For years, the discourse on Darnold centered around him being a bust, considering his pedigree as a former No. 3 overall pick, and a transient quarterback who hopped from team to team. Darnold’s first year under center for the Seahawks, after all, marked his fifth team in eight seasons. Despite the scrutiny, Darnold said his confidence in himself has never wavered. “I don’t allow myself to really pay attention to anything like that,” Darnold said five days into training camp. “If I do catch wind of it, I have my process on how to handle that. Like I said, it’s just about handling my process and doing it my way, so that when I get out there, it’s not about what I’ve done or what I’m going to do, it’s about what I’m doing right now. “I think if I just continue to have that mindset as we go on, we’ll be just fine.” What Darnold is more interested in is getting up to speed with the Seahawks’ new offensive scheme. First-year offensive coordinator Brian Fleury and Darnold have some familiarity with one another. Fleury spent the last four years as the 49ers’ tight ends coach, and Darnold was San Francisco’s backup in 2023. Darnold has enjoyed getting to reconnect with the stoic Fleury, who has been tasked with re-
placing current Las Vegas Raiders head coach Klint Kubiak. “Whether it’s a good play or bad play, his mentality never changes out there on the field, which I already knew about, being in San Francisco with him,” Darnold said. “But he was always very even keel. Now getting to spend a lot more time with him as the offensive coordinator, it’s fun to be able to watch him work every single day and see his mentality out there.” Darnold would also like to keep working on his rapport with wide receiver Rashid Shaheed, who signed a $51 million, three-year contract in March. Shaheed spent a good chunk of the offseason training with Darnold. The two Southern California natives teamed up at Saddleback College in Orange County, which Darnold imagines will only help Shaheed further get up to speed with the Seahawks ahead of his first full season in Seattle. “He’s a friendly receiver to throw to,” Darnold said. “... I’m looking forward to him continuing to get more reps and build that chemistry so that we can see him more often getting catches and doing his thing at the receiver position.” While Darnold isn’t one to reflect on how far he’s come, coach Mike Macdonald is more than willing to shower praise on his even-keeled quarterback as the Seahawks seek to defend their Super Bowl title. “The thing I appreciate about Sam — and you can’t speak for everybody — but just every rep is a rep,” Macdonald said. “If it’s in the quarterback room and they’re going over the script, he treats that rep the same as he does here, if it’s practiced online or we’re in a game. It’s all the same. That’s the mental approach that we want all of our guys to take.”
B2 SIDELINE REPORT NBA
Green agrees to 1-year, $27.7M contract to remain with Warriors San Francisco Draymond Green has reportedly agreed to a one-year, $27.7 million deal to return to the Golden State Warriors. Green will sign the deal that essentially matches the deal he opted out of last month before the Warriors made an unsuccessful bid to sign LeBron James. Green is now set to play his 15th season with the Warriors. If he plays in 51 games, he will join Stephen Curry as the only players in franchise history to appear in at least 1,000 contests.
NFL
Vikings suspend new DB coach Alexander for 3 weeks following drunken driving charge The Minnesota Vikings suspended defensive backs coach Gerald Alexander for three weeks without pay following a drunken driving charge in April. Alexander’s suspension will be in effect until Aug. 13, two days before their first preseason game. Alexander, a Carolina Panthers player in 2010, pled guilty July 16 to a gross misdemeanor charge of third-degree driving while impaired. He was arrested at about 4 a.m. after his vehicle was stopped in the middle of an intersection in a Minneapolis suburb. He was allegedly unresponsive and failed field sobriety tests.
LPGA
Kuwaki of Japan wins the Women’s British Open on second playoff hole Lytham St. Annes, England Shiho Kuwaki of Japan saved par to stay alive in a sudden-death playoff and then won with a par on the second extra hole to claim the Women’s British Open over Esther Henseleit of Germany for her first major title. Kuwaki closed with a 1-under 70 and looked like a winner in regulation until Henseleit holed a 40-foot birdie putt on the 18th hole at Royal Lytham & St. Annes for a 70 to join Kuwaki at 5-under 279.
MLB
A’s place rookie Kuroda-Grauer on injured list following surgery for ruptured testicle The Athletics placed rookie infielder Joshua Kuroda-Grauer on the 10-day injured list following emergency surgery for a ruptured testicle caused by a foul ball the night before. The A’s said Kuroda-Grauer was resting comfortably a day after fouling a ball into his groin in the fifth inning of their 5-2 win over the Diamondbacks. Kuroda-Grauer fell to the ground in pain but stayed in the game and managed to hit a single before being replaced at third base.
WNBA
Post showing Bueckers, Reese betting on game “missed the mark” The WNBA says a social media post showing stars Paige Bueckers and Angel Reese betting $400 on the outcome of a game between their teams “missed the mark.” The players reportedly won’t be punished for the bet. The league posted the video from All-Star Weekend, days before Bueckers’ Dallas Wings and Reese’s Atlanta Dream were set to play. The clip featured Bueckers and Reese placing what appeared to be a personal wager on the game. The WNBA deleted the post, but not before it was shared on social media.
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
Women’s Professional Baseball League debuts in front of enthusiastic crowd The league is the first pro women’s baseball league in the U.S. in 30 years By Jay Cohen The Associated Press SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Sarah Hodel and Rachel Koehler arrived at Robin Roberts Stadium more than four hours before the first game of the Women’s Professional Baseball League. Once inside, Hodel stopped periodically for pictures as she walked along the concourse. She wanted to savor every moment. “Back in high school I was on my speech team, and my informative speech was on women in baseball,” said Hodel, a 43-year-old athletic trainer from Duluth, Minnesota. “So as soon as I saw this happening a couple years ago it was my goal to come.” That moment finally arrived, when Mo’ne Davis and the Los Angeles Queens rallied for a 10-8 victory over Denae Benites and the New York Heights in a rainy debut for the first women’s professional baseball league in the United States in almost 30 years. “Growing up I played softball,” said Koehler, 33, of St. Paul, Minnesota. “I wanted to play baseball because going professional was always like the dream, but there (were) no opportunities. ... So now that that’s actually an opportunity and something that girls can look up to, I think is amazing.” Maggie Foxx picked up the league’s first hit on a two-run single for Los Angeles in the first inning. Benites connected for the WPBL’s first homer, a two-run drive to center in the bottom of the fourth. The Queens trailed 8-4 before scoring two runs in the sixth and four more in wet and windy conditions for the final frame of the seven-inning contest. “When I walked on the field I started crying because of how much this moment meant and how much it meant to everybody,” Foxx said. “It means everything to us.” A steady rain fell for much of the day, soaking the 101-year-old home of the WPBL’s inaugural season. But much of the crowd of more than 4,000 started lining up hours before the game.
LEXIE KNIGHT / AP PHOTO
New York Heights’ Natsuki Yonetani, right, celebrates while Los Angeles Queens’ Amira Hondras, left, fails to tag her during the third inning of the inaugural Women’s Professional Baseball League game. The line for the main merchandise booth stretched all the way to the outfield along one side of the ballpark. “Having a daughter, it’s really exciting to give her exposure to female professional athletes,” said Antonietta Mabry, 47, an accountant from Columbus, Ohio. “It’s such a rare thing, so it’s really cool to give her some really positive female role models and examples.” Mabry was accompanied by her husband, Jason, and their daughter, Rosalee. Nine-year-old Mabry got her glove autographed by San Francisco second baseman Amanda Gianelloni. The Firebells and Boston Hunters — the league’s other two teams — play on Sunday. A couple of players from each team helped the grounds crew pull the tarp off the field after the rain subsided. “I’m excited to be here because I play softball and I really like it and it’s really cool that I get to see profession-
“When I walked on the field I started crying because of how much this moment meant.” Maggie Foxx al women play,” Rosalee Mabry said. The WPBL paid tribute to the past, present and future of women’s baseball during a rain-delayed pregame ceremony. The crowd cheered as the lineups for the Queens and Heights were announced. But the biggest ovation of the night was for 99-year-old Maybelle Blair, who threw a ceremonial first pitch to San Francisco’s Kelsie Whitmore, one of the biggest stars of the WPBL. Blair, who serves on a WPBL advisory board, played in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, which ran from 1943-54 and inspired the
Dodgers land Cy Young ace Skubal in deadline deal Los Angeles sent three prospects to Detroit
“I’m excited to get down there and meet all those guys and chase three championships in a row.”
By Josh Dubow The Associated Press SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired the biggest prize on the trade deadline market, getting two-time reigning AL Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal from the Detroit Tigers. Skubal got the news during the game and was emotional after the game as he prepared to leave the team that drafted him in 2018 and developed him into a star to join the two-time defending World Series champions. “I’m excited to be a Dodger,” he said. “I’m excited to get down there and meet all those guys and chase three championships in a row. That’s hard to do, so I’m so excited to be a part of that. It’s a lot of different emotions. Definitely kind of a roller coaster a little bit.” Skubal is the latest star to join the high-priced roster for the Dodgers that already has big-name players like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Mookie Betts. The Dodgers are in first place in the NL West and were already the favorites to become the first team to
Tarik Skubal
PAUL SANCYA / AP PHOTO
Detroit Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal walks to the dugout after leaving his final start with the team before getting traded. three-peat since the New York Yankees from 1998-2000 before adding Skubal. They began the season with a $323.3 million opening-day payroll for their 40-man roster and a $163.7 million tax for a $487.1 million total. They will pay Skubal about $9.5 million for the remainder of the season. The Tigers would receive three minor league prospects in right-handers River Ryan and Brady Smith and outfielder Zyhir Hope.
Skubal is eligible for free agency after the World Series. He has a $32 million salary, a record total in arbitration and is expected to sign a massive contract in the offseason. The 29-year-old lefty said in July it was his preference to finish the season with the Tigers and to compete for a World Series. Skubal took the loss in the decisive Game 5 of the division series against Cleveland in 2024 and then got a no-decision in a 15-inning loss to Seattle in Game 5 of the division series last year. He said it was “very tough” to leave the Tigers having fallen short of the goal of winning a title. “Ever since that ’24 Game 5, the failure that I experienced on the mound, I’ve used that as fuel to try and bring a World Series to the city of Detroit. I truly did,” he said. “That whole offseason I’ve never been more motivated and then go in and we lose Game 5 again. That failure kind of sparks some
1992 movie, “A League of Their Own.” “I think that’s pretty incredible,” Benites said. “Maybelle’s been sticking with us since the beginning of this journey. She’s paved a path for us, really. ... She’s a special person, and I’m so happy that she got to make it out here and do that today.” Lindsey Keirsey, 42, a high school history teacher in Fenton, Missouri, said she is obsessed with the AAGPBL and “A League of Their Own.” She attended the game with her husband, Drew, 43, and their four children, Hadley, 17, Nolan, 15, Elam, 11, and Abbott, 10. “We go to St. Louis Cardinals games all the time,” Hadley Keirsey said. “As much as I love baseball, I think it’s an amazing opportunity to see so many women be able to play and just break ground like that. Even though it’s just a sport, I think that if we can do things like this and let women play in sports like this, women can do so many more things.”
more motivation, just to dig deeper and see how good you can truly be. The goal was always to win a World Series for the city, for the organization that took a chance on me. It’s tough. I love all those guys in there. They’re some of my best friends.” The Tigers got off to a rough start and are currently 21⁄2 games out of the last wild-card spot in the American League. “It’s crazy. Going into the season, this isn’t what I planned on doing,” Skubal said. “But circumstances change, situations change, and I’m very appreciative of everything the Tigers have done for me.” “I’ve watched this guy rise to the top of the sport,” Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said. “He’s carried us a lot. I’ll forever be grateful that our paths crossed and the things that he did for this organization and for a couple of playoff teams. His presence, his work ethic, his example, his dominance. There’s so much to go through, it’s hard to capture in one quote or kind of one setting. But I’m very grateful that I was able to manage him for the time that I did.” Skubal is 7-5 this season with a 2.79 ERA and 116 strikeouts in 962⁄3 innings. He is 61-42 with a 3.04 ERA over seven seasons, all in Detroit. In two postseasons, Skubal is 2-1 with a 2.04 ERA in six starts. Skubal had a minimally invasive surgery May 6 to remove a loose body from his pitching elbow and returned to pitch on June 13. “The way the surgery went is exactly how it was supposed to go,” he said in July.
B3
North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
obituaries Kay Granger, first Republican woman from Texas to serve in the House, dead at 83 Margaret Louise “Lucy” Collins Smith Oct. 13, 1935 – July 29, 2026 Margaret Louise “Lucy” Collins Smith, age 90, of Cameron passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst with her family by her side. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Mount Pleasant Christian Church in Vass with Rev. Chandler Wilkes officiating. A time of visitation will be held one hour prior to the service from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Burial will immediately follow in the church cemetery. Lucy was born on October 13, 1935, in Harnett County, NC, to the late Sarah Catherine Collins. In addition to her mother, she was also preceded in death by her husband, Duncan “June” Smith, Jr.; daughter, Sherry Pilgrim and brother, Leroy Collins. She is survived by her children, Terry Lee “Buck” Smith (Debbie) of Vass, Bonnie Williamson of Cameron, Linda Gillenwater (Richard) of Cameron, James Duncan (Sonya) of Cameron; grandchildren, Terri Jo Howard, Jason Lee Smith, Billy Ray Smith, Robin Lynn Williamson, Amanda Leigh Williamson, Corey Thomas Smith, Blake Duncan Smith, Jenna Wade Smith, Reganne James Smith, Sarah Elizabeth Gillenwater, Kristy Nicole Pilgrim, Shenna Odette English; greatgrandchildren, Tyler Lee Randall Aria, Gavin Aria, Kaylob Aria, Peyton House, Abigail English, Landon English, Braydon English, Conner English, Nova Reid, Elijah Smith, Isaac Smith, Benjamin Smith, Christopher Smith, Daniel Smith, Matthew Hearn, Aubrey Hearn, Jace Brewer, Wesson Clay, Caslyn Clay, Braxton Artis, Braylee Howard, Alexa Smith, Rhett Smith, Hadlee Smith, Zachary Smith, Lorelai Smith and Jimmie June Ledford and six great-great-grandchildren with a total of 45 grandchildren in all. Lucy loved saltwater fishing and animals, but what brought her great joy was family gettogethers. She was loved and will be greatly missed.
Michael O. Sinclair Aug. 11, 1959 – July 29, 2026 Michael O. Sinclair, 66, of Aberdeen, N.C., passed away on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at First Health Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst, N.C.
Michael Gene Whitt March 15, 1961 – July 30, 2026 Michael Gene Whitt, age 65, of Cameron passed away suddenly on Thursday, July 30, 2026, at his home. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, August 7, 2016, at 3:00 pm at Pineywood Baptist Church with Pastor Jimmy Calhoun officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church from 2 until 3. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Mike was born in Sanford, North Carolina, on March 15, 1961, to the late Frank Wesley Whitt and Norma Jean Wood Whitt. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Ronald Franklin Whitt and Richard Lynn Whitt. He was a hard worker and could drive anything with wheels. He loved his family and his cats. He was a loving uncle and friend and will be greatly missed. He is survived by his nieces, Jane Wilcox of Cameron, Rhonda Kangas (Brian) of Cameron, Teresa Hearn (James) of Hope Mills; great-nieces, Lauren Wilcox, Rebecca Kangas and great-nephew, Wesley Whitt and numerous cousins; aunt, Mary Wood Gilmore.
She rose from high school teacher to chair the powerful House Appropriations Committee By Jamie Stengle The Associated Press DALLAS — Kay Granger, the first Republican woman from Texas to be elected to the U.S. House of Representatives and who served for nearly three decades, died Sunday at the age of 83, her son J.D. Granger said. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said in a post on X that throughout her career, Granger “broke barriers for women in public service.” He added that she “was a dear friend who will be greatly missed.” Granger, who began her career as a high school teacher and a businesswoman, accomplished many firsts as a politician. She was the first woman elected mayor of Fort Worth, Texas, and the first Republican woman to chair one of the most powerful committees in Congress, the House Appropriations Committee. First elected to the House in 1996, she did not seek reelection in 2024 and experienced worsening “health challenges” in her final months in Congress, according to a statement her office released in December 2024. Granger, who didn’t cast a vote in Washington after July 2024, didn’t specify or elaborate on those health challenges but said in the statement that frequent travel had become “both difficult and unpredictable” since early September of that year. Granger graduated from Texas Wesleyan University in 1965 and considered a career in fashion design but followed her mother into teaching. She worked in the Birdville school district for nine years, teaching English literature and journalism, according to a profile compiled for the publication “Women in Congress, 1917-2006.” A divorce would lead to a career change. To earn more
J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE / AP PHOTO
House Appropriations Committee Chair Kay Granger (R-Texas) and her panel begin work on fiscal 2024 spending bills at the Capitol in Washington, D.C., in June 2023.
“I was a high school teacher with three children, a 2-year-old and 6-month-old twins, and my husband left. It’s the reason I talk so much to working mothers ... you just fight your way through the day.” Kay Granger, U.S. representative money, Granger worked from home selling insurance. Her mother, Alliene Mullendore, who moved in with Granger after a stroke, helped keep an eye on the kids. Granger eventually built a successful insurance business that she managed for more than two decades. “I was a high school teacher with three children, a 2-year-old and 6-month-old twins, and my husband left,” Granger told The Hill in a 2008 profile. “It’s the reason I talk so much to working mothers ... you just fight your way through the day.” Granger got her political start serving on Fort Worth’s zoning commission and then won election to the city council. She went on to win election as the city’s first female may-
or, serving from 1991 to 1995. Granger’s “Code: Blue” programs included citizen patrol initiatives that halved the rampant crime rate and partnerships with the private sector that drew major businesses to the city. Her resuscitation of Fort Worth’s flagging economic fortunes drew national attention. In 1996, she was recruited by both parties to run for the House under their banner, and she won as a Republican. Upon entering Congress, she was named to an advisory board that consulted then-House Speaker Newt Gingrich. She also received seats on three committees: Budget, House Oversight, and Transportation and Infrastructure. She resigned those assignments as part of accepting a seat on the Appropriations Committee. On the committee, she focused on defense spending, including championing the production of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter in Fort Worth. When Republicans took charge of the House in 2023, Granger became the committee’s chair, where she sought to enact steeper nondefense spending cuts than the top-line numbers House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and President Joe Biden agreed to as part of avoiding an economically disastrous government default.
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North State Journal for Thursday, August 6, 2026
STATE & NATION
Jackson joins lawsuit against DHS, FEMA over funding threat States must comply with federal election rules to receive counterterrorism funding
“The last time they tried this, we took them to court and won. … I expect we’ll beat them — again.”
By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal RALEIGH — Last week, Attorney General Jeff Jackson joined a multistate lawsuit against the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Department of Homeland Security for alleged threats to withhold 20% of state counterterrorism funding. According to grant requirements issued by FEMA, states must provide proof of compliance with federal election rules to receive full funding. “FEMA is threatening our counterterrorism funding again,” said Jackson in a press release. “The last time they tried this, we took them to court and won. Now they’re trying again, and I expect we’ll beat them — again. “Hopefully they get the message: Don’t threaten our first responders unless you’re ready for a fight.” North Carolina received more than $17 million through counterterrorism and emergency preparedness programs last
Jeff Jackson, North Carolina attorney general
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North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson, pictured last month, joined several states in a lawsuit against FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security. year. The money funds bomb squad equipment, active shooter exercises, cyberattack resistance, hurricane and natural disaster response, flood risk mitigation, wildfire management and search-and-rescue operations. The election security compliance mandates include: • States must submit plans
to use equipment that accepts hand-marked paper ballots rather than electronic systems using barcodes and QR codes. • Jurisdictions must conduct a manual audit of at least 5% of all cast ballots after every federal election. • States must use the federal Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) data-
base to verify the citizenship of every voter and remove verified noncitizens. • States must use the SAVE database to verify the citizenship of individuals working at polling places or operating election systems. • Jurisdictions must match the number of participating voters with the total number of ballots counted. At the center of the issue is DHS needing to verify proof of compliance with the rules. If DHS fails to do so, FEMA will withhold 20% of a recipient’s total Homeland Security Grant Program funding. Additionally, DHS has a condition allowing the cancellation or withdrawal of grants if projects do not align with federal priorities. According to the press release, the requirements for administering elections would in-
terfere with the authority of the North Carolina State Board of Elections and county boards. The mandates would also require voting equipment in 13 rural North Carolina counties to be replaced after they had been certified by the state board. Jackson argues that the federal government could pull money during a response, which would hinder states’ planning public safety operations. He additionally stated that FEMA has no authority over elections, and that FEMA and DHS are violating the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) and the Spending Clause of the U.S. Constitution. The APA regulates how U.S. government agencies make regulations, handle legal disputes and listen to public feedback. The Spending Clause gives Congress the power to collect taxes and spend money to pay debt, defend the country and provide for general welfare. Previously, FEMA and DHS were sued in November 2025 and December 2025 by a coalition of states over withheld emergency management, public safety and climate resiliency grants. More than $17 million for North Carolina was withheld, and the court ordered FEMA to reinstate $200 million in canceled climate resiliency grants for North Carolina. The court rejected the conditions DHS and FEMA put on the funds, stating they were not “consistent with Congressional intent or FEMA’s mission.”
FBI investigates as Michigan joins Minnesota in reporting cyberattacks on water systems The attacks come amid federal warnings about Iranian hackers targeting water systems By Michael Casey The Associated Press MICHIGAN on Saturday joined Minnesota in reporting cyberattacks on nine of the state’s water systems, but an official said all systems were operating “safely.” Earlier this week, authorities said cyberattacks targeted more than 30 water systems in Minnesota. The source of the attacks is being investigated, but they came amid warnings that Iranian hackers have been focused on such systems. The reports in Michigan surfaced after the state received a federal cyber alert Tuesday about attempts to tamper with operational technology at water systems. Soon after, the state received “a small number of reports from Michigan communities indicating activity consistent with what federal agencies described,” said Dale George, the director of communications at the state’s Department
of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. He later said nine systems were impacted. “All systems continued to operate safely, issues were addressed by local operators, and there are no known impacts that posed a public health concern,” George said in a statement. The FBI, which is investigating, has not publicly identified a culprit, and a spokesperson declined to say last Thursday who the bureau thought might be responsible. The FBI, Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and other agencies warned in an advisory last week that Iranian hackers have been targeting water and wastewater systems and the operational controls of other critical infrastructure sectors. “The FBI is aware of recent public reporting around Water and Wastewater (WWS) sectors,” the agency said in a statement Saturday. “The FBI and our interagency partners are fully engaged to protect critical infrastructure and we remain well-equipped to protect against cyber threats of all varieties.” Digital warfare has become ingrained in military conflict, and local water plants or healthcare facilities often lack
“All systems continued to operate safely, issues were addressed by local operators, and there are no known impacts that posed a public health concern.” ELLEN SCHMIDT / AP PHOTO
Cyberattacks on water systems are becoming more prevalent. the funds and know-how to install the latest software patches or take other security steps. That has made them a favorite target, both because of the relative ease of penetrating them and because of the panic such disruptions can cause. Iran’s interest in the operations of water systems inside the U.S. dates back years. In 2016, the Justice Department charged a group of Iranian hackers in connection with a cyberattack targeting a small dam near New York City. Minnesota IT Services said that as of last Thursday, there were no active requests from
Dale George, director of communications at Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy Minnesota communities for residents to modify usage of their drinking water. The state agency said most of the confirmed attacks involved technology that water systems use to remotely monitor and control equipment. It said that being impacted meant investigators confirmed there was malicious activity involving the system’s technology and didn’t mean every impacted community had their water service disrupted. For a few hours Monday, the city of Braham asked residents to minimize water use as it tried to determine why the wa-
ter plant was offline. The city of about 1,700 people, located about 70 miles north of Minneapolis, said in a news release that the water plant outage was due to a cyberattack, but it didn’t cause any issue with water quality. The city said the attackers shut down the operating controls that shut down the well and water treatment plant. That left the city for a time only able to provide residents with the water held in the water tower. In Plymouth, a city of about 80,000 located outside of Minneapolis, officials said on social media that their water infrastructure communications had been restored by Tuesday afternoon following a cyberattack. During a Cabinet meeting last Friday at the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland, President Donald Trump claimed without evidence that recent cyberattacks in Minnesota were the fault of the state, including Democratic Gov. Tim Walz. Walz responded on social media, saying Trump “knows exactly who is responsible for this attack, and knows that other states were hit too.”
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