VOLUME 11 ISSUE 25 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026
NSJONLINE.COM
CHUCK BURTON / AP PHOTO
Wyndfall Wake Forest alumnus Michael Brennan kisses the Sam Snead Cup after winning the Wyndham Championship at Sedgefield Country Club in Greensboro on Sunday. See more in Sports.
DOJ: Duke Law discriminated based on race
the
BRIEF this week
Balkcom picked to replace Edwards on 11th District ballot Asheville State Rep. Jennifer Balkcom (R-Henderson) accepted the nomination by Republicans in the state’s 11th Congressional District to replace U.S. Rep. Chuck Edwards (R-N.C.) on the November ballot. Edwards dropped out of his reelection bid in the early hours of Aug. 5, just two days after the House Ethics Committee recommended his censure over inappropriate interactions with two female staffers. Balkcom has served as the District 117 representative for two terms after first winning the seat in 2022. Balkcom will face Democratic candidate Jamie Ager, who has raised more than $3.05 million, according to Federal Election Commission data from the period spanning July 31, 2025, to June 30, 2026.
Tarboro-born Jones, “Dukes of Hazzard” actor who served in Congress, dead at 84 Washington, Va. Ben Jones, who played the good ol’ boy mechanic in “The Dukes of Hazzard” TV series and parlayed his fame into a political career and two terms in the U.S. House, has died. He was 84. Jones had a heart attack in his home Sunday in Washington, Virginia, his wife said on social media. Jones’ fame came from his role as Cooter Davenport, the mechanic who got the Duke boys out of jams as they tried to do the right thing and fight the corrupt Boss Hogg in the fictional Hazzard County, Georgia. Jones was born in Tarboro in Edgecombe County but moved with his family to Virginia as an infant.
$2.00
The department’s Civil Rights Division examined the school’s admission record
House Speaker Johnson stumps for Buckhout Rep. Don Davis is running to hold onto his seat in North Carolina’s 1st District By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) stumped for retired Army Col. Laurie Buckhout at a campaign stop in Greenville on Aug. 4.
Buckhout is the Republican challenging Rep. Don Davis for the seat. Davis, a Democrat, is in his second term. The previous bid by Buckhout to unseat Davis in 2024 came up short by about 6,700 votes. In 2025, the state legislature redistricted Davis’ seat to have more of a Republican lean. See BUCKHOUT, page A3
By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — The U.S. Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division has announced investigative findings showing Duke University School of Law intentionally discriminated based on race in granting and denying admission to its 2023, 2024 and 2025 incoming classes. “Duke Law School doesn’t get a free pass to discriminate against white and Asian students simply because it thinks it has good intentions,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. “Using ‘diversity’ essay questions to identify preferred races for admission is still illegal discrimination based on race, and this Department is committed to eliminating it everywhere we find it, including in our nation’s law schools.”
UNC SCiLL report lawsuit remains pending An Orange County judge said he wants to review the report himself before ruling By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — No decision has yet been made in the lawsuit brought by a coalition of media outlets over UNC Chapel Hill’s refusal to release an internal investigation report on one of its schools, the Center for Civic Life and Leadership. During an Aug. 4 hearing, Orange County Superior Court Judge John Morris didn’t issue a ruling but instead said he wants to conduct his own review of UNC Chapel Hill’s re-
port to decide for himself if the case should go to trial or if he will dismiss it. “North Carolina’s public records law provides a broad right of access to records of public agencies,” Morris said. “However, many exceptions in other laws that deal with public records can be found also in other chapters. So it will be an intense, intensive legal inquiry and review.” Morris did not say when he will issue a decision. Morris heard arguments from both sides, with UNC attorney Wes Camden arguing the report is protected in its entirety under the state’s Public Records Act. Camden also See SCiLL, page A2
“It will be an intense, intensive legal review.” John Morris, Orange County Superior Court judge
According to the Civil Rights Division’s press statement, Duke Law’s conduct violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color or national origin. A letter containing the Civil Rights Division’s findings was issued by Dhillon to Marc Berger, an attorney with Latham & Watkins LLP. The letter outlines how Duke Law emphasized racial diversity in admissions and took deliberate steps to preserve race-based outcomes for its incoming classes following the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2023 decision in Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, which banned race discrimination in higher education. “Based on its review of Duke Law’s documents and data, the Department finds that Duke Law continues to intentionally discriminate against applicants based on their race after the Supreme Court’s decision in SFFA by granting See DUKE, page A10
A2
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
THURSDAY
8.13.26 #554
“First in Freedom” Visit us online nsjonline.com
North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Trip Hoffend Publisher Cory Lavalette Senior Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Jordan Golson Locals Editor Dan Reeves Features Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Thursday by North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 919-663-3232
or online at nsjonline.com Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607
the word | Does God really care for us? “I am poor and needy — yet the Lord thinks upon me!” Psalm 40:17 Did God really care for him? And does God care for us, and think upon us — when we are poor and needy? Does God really care for us, as individuals? Does He give personal thought to any of us — to you, to me — according to our condition? Does pain or trouble in us — cause pity in His heart? Does God care? Does He see the individual in the crowd? When you are passing through some great trouble, enduring pain or adversity — does God know it, and does He care? A daughter had a bitter sorrow, a sore disappointment. The mother knew just what her daughter was passing through. Her love for her child entered into and shared all the child’s experiences. The mother cared. Is there ever anything like this in the heart of God — as He looks upon His children and knows that they are suffering? When we turn to the Bible, we find on every page the revelation — that God does care — and has personal interest in His people. Christ assured His disciples that the very hairs of their heads are all numbered; meaning that God personally cares for all the minutest affairs of our lives — He cares for us as individuals. His love is as personal and individual, as the love of a mother for each one of her children. Paul took the love of Christ to himself — as if he were the only one Christ loved. “He loved me — and gave Himself up for me!” God’s love is personal. He cares for us — for me. Whatever your need, your trial, your perplexity, your struggle may be — you may be sure that God knows and cares — and that when you come to Him with it, He will take time amid all His infinite affairs, to help you — as if He had nothing else in all the world to do. God cares! His love for each one of His children is so deep, so personal, so tender — that He has compassion on our every pain, every distress, every struggle. “As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear Him.” Psalm 103:13. God is our Father, and His care is gentler than a human
How NC was kept under statewide emergency for 888 days Former Gov. Roy Cooper’s order led to permanent limits on future executive orders By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — Aug. 15 marks the four-year anniversary of the state’s 888-day statewide pandemic emergency order. Former Gov. Roy Cooper,
SCiLL from page A1 said the report was prepared with an eye on potential future litigation, which he argued protects it as trial-preparation materials under the N.C. Rules of Civil Procedure, specifically Rule 26(b)(3). Mike Tadych, attorney for the media coalition, asserted UNC is required to release the report unless they can prove the entire report requires confidentiality protections. Tadych also argued that sharing the report with Michael Gerhardt, UNC law professor and faculty chair, waived the issue of attorney-client privilege claimed by UNC’s counsel. The main point in the media coalition’s complaint is the report was paid for with public funds, therefore making it public record. UNC Chapel Hill announced in early March it would not release the 400-page report, stating it was based on interviews and an extensive document review of its School of Civic Life and Leadership (SCiLL). SCiLL was named UNC Chapel Hill’s 15th independent unit in May. UNC Chapel Hill general counsel Paul Newton cited sen-
now running for the state’s U.S. Senate seat, issued that order March 10, 2020. The order would remain in place for 888 days — nearly 2½ years — until it was rescinded Aug. 15, 2022. In his announcement ending the statewide emergency order, Cooper implied he was holding out for the state’s budget, which he said at the time “includes the changes in the law requested by the N.C. Department of Health and Human
sitive and confidential personnel information as a key reason for withholding the report’s release. The investigation was conducted by K&L Gates, selected by UNC’s Office of University Counsel last summer. When UNC announced it wouldn’t release the report, a spokesperson for the university said the estimated cost of the SCiLL review and final report totaled $1.2 million, and no state funds were used. The media coalition, which includes The Daily Tar Heel, WRAL-TV, The News & Observer, NC Newsline, The Assembly and Carolina Public Press, sued in April seeking the report’s release, either in whole or in redacted form, arguing it is a public record paid for with public funds and that any confidential portions can be separated. Plaintiffs unsuccessfully sought a summary ruling for the immediate release prior to mediation scheduled for July 16, but UNC successfully argued the court lacked jurisdiction to rule ahead of the mediation meeting. After mediation attempts failed, UNC pressed its claims via summary judgment. That effort failed, resulting in the Aug. 4 hearing. A lawsuit seeking the release of a report of an internal investigation of the UNC’s SCiLL is awaiting a judge’s ruling.
JOHNNY ANDREWS / COURTESY UNC CHAPEL HILL
Services to ensure flexibility that is currently made possible by the Governor’s Covid-19 State of Emergency.” Cooper’s budget remark was linked to a letter sent by former N.C. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kody Kinsley to former House Speaker Tim Moore (R-Kings Mountain) on the two-year anniversary of the statewide emergency order. During a COVID-19 briefing
PUBLIC DOMAIN
“The Return of the Prodigal Son” by Lionello Spada (circa 1600) is a painting in the collection of the Louvre Museum in Paris.
father’s — as His love exceeds human love. Much human care has no power to help — but when God cares — He helps omnipotently. When human friendship can give no relief — then God will come. When no one in all the world cares — then God cares. “Cast all your cares upon Him, because He cares about you!” 1 Peter 5:7
J. R. Miller was a pastor and former editorial superintendent of the Presbyterian Board of Publication from 1880 to 1911. His works are now in the public domain.
in March 2022, Cooper put the onus on lawmakers to end his order by complying with Kinsley’s demands for “legislation for mitigation.” Cooper had previously insisted the order was required to “draw down federal funds.” North State Journal found no evidence validating that claim, and Cooper’s office didn’t respond when asked to clarify. North State Journal, which was shut out from asking questions for 418 days during Cooper’s nearly daily COVID-19 press conferences, asked his office multiple times for the reasoning in keeping the order in place, typically with no response other than the “draw down federal funds” claim.
Lawmakers were unsuccessful in two attempts — Senate Bill 105 in July 2021 and House Bill 264 in October 2021 — to end Cooper’s statewide order and to limit gubernatorial emergency powers tied to it, but Cooper vetoed both bills. While no override attempt was made on either bill, similar language was inserted into that year’s budget, which Cooper signed. As a result, a North Carolina governor is now required to obtain concurrence from the Council of State 48 hours ahead of issuing a statewide emergency order, and the order can’t persist beyond 45 days without an extension approved by the General Assembly.
NCDOT PUBLIC MEETING: BERYL ROAD EXTENSION TO ROYAL STREET AND CROSSING CLOSURE IN WAKE COUNTY
STIP Project P-5736 RALEIGH - The public is invited to attend an informal, open housestyle meeting hosted by the N.C. Department of Transportation to view and discuss maps and other information regarding the proposal to extend Beryl Road to Royal Street and close the existing rail crossing at Beryl Road. The meeting will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, August 27, 2026, at the Method Community Center- Pioneer Building located at 514 Method Road. People may drop in at any time and ask questions and review project information. There will be no formal presentation. The project would improve safety for motorists and increase rail transportation HI¿FLHQF\ Project details, including maps of the proposal, can be found on the NCDOT project webpage https://publicinput.com/beryl-road-extension. Interested parties may also submit comments by emailing beryl-road-extension@ publicinput.com, calling 984-205-6615 and entering project code 10125, or mailing to the address shown below by September 27, 2026. By Mail:
Emily Richards Environmental Analysis Unit 1598 Mail Service Center Raleigh, NC 27699
NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for people who wish to participate in this workshop. Anyone needing accommodations should contact Emily Richards with the Environmental Analysis Unit at 1598 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1598; 919-707-6014; or edrichards1@ncdot.gov as early as possible so arrangements can be made. Those who do not speak English, or have a limited ability to read, speak or understand English, may receive interpretive services upon request prior by calling 1-800-481-6494.
Aquellas personas no hablan inglés, o tienen limitaciones para leer, hablar o entender inglés, podrían recibir servicios de interpretación si los solicitan llamando al 1-800-481-6494.
A3
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Boliek, Jackson Farley looks back on first year as Labor commissioner join Southeast
Fraud Enforcement Partnership
The Republican is proud of established committees and initiatives but says there is more to do
North Carolina has cases totaling more than $25 million in losses
By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal This is Part 1 of a two-part interview. RALEIGH — Luke Farley, the youngest Labor commissioner elected in a century, is looking back at his first year in office and his priorities for the future. As Labor commissioner, the 40-year-old Farley works to enforce worker safety and solid business practices in North Carolina. “The working people are the backbone of this state; they are what drives this state forward,” Farley told North State Journal. “So I came into office wanting to be a champion for them and make this agency work better for them.” He discussed his office’s success in recovering wages, growing the state’s safety record and clearing up the elevator backlog. Originally, one in five of North Carolina’s elevators was uninspected. “I am very proud of our ability to clear the elevator inspection backlog,” Farley said. “The first year I was commissioner, we inspected 5,000 more elevators than were inspected in the prior year. That doesn’t happen without strong leadership and sound management, and so we see what we’ve done with the elevators as a model for all state government to make it run better.” He added he didn’t want to “go to the legislature and say, ‘Give us more money’” and instead wanted to “exhaust everything else, demand better results” from his team and then ask where they are “under resourced.” Farley championed the Worker Safety Act of 2026, which was passed in mid-June and updates the state’s Retaliatory Employment Discrimination Act. Changes include clear filing rules for discrimination complaints, allowing employers to submit early position statements and standardizing legal deadlines. “Workers of this state ought to be free to raise concerns about the conditions of their workplace without being retaliated against by their employer,” said Farley. “If they are retaliated against, those cases
BUCKHOUT from page A1 Johnson characterized Buckhout’s candidacy in the state’s 1st Congressional District as a “top priority” for Republicans in holding a majority by defending 18-20 pivotal seats that will decide House control. “She is one of our star recruits to run for Congress this fall, and she is going to flip a blue seat to red,” Johnson said of Buckhout. “North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District is an essential part of the strategy to ensure the Republicans maintain the majority in Congress.” Johnson framed the race and the national midterms as a sharp “contrast election” between “common sense” and the Democratic Party’s shift further left. “We’re in a contrast election right now, and the contrast is simply between common sense and crazy,” said Johnson. “And the Democrat Party is now turning to communism, Marxism, socialism, that is not something that comports with the values, the morals, the principles of the people of North Carolina.” Johnson said that, by his count, there are “38 Marxist communists who have won primaries for Congress or are on path to do so. And this is a serious problem.” “The barbarians are inside the gate, politically speaking,” he said, “and we must defeat them.”
By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal
COURTESY @LUKEFARLEYNC /
North Carolina Labor Commissioner Luke Farley, pictured at a Cabarrus County Republican Party event in July, is looking ahead after his first year in office. should be handled in a quick and efficient way so that either the employee gets the protections they deserve or the employer doesn’t have to deal with a frivolous complaint.” When asked about his future priorities, Farley emphasized government accountability and responsiveness. He stated there is “oftentimes a disconnect between the bureaucracy of state government and the people who the government exists to serve” and plans to continue tackling workplace safety and ensuring workers get paid without interfering with businesses. “We have rules we have to enforce, and we want to enforce them fairly and consistently,” he said, “but we don’t want to be burdensome and get in the way of what our job creators do best, which is creating job opportunities for the people of the state of North Carolina.” A workplace safety initiative aimed at reducing struck-by injuries and fatalities was implemented by Farley earlier this year. Struck-by injuries “are the new leading cause of workplace deaths in North Carolina. … Imagine you’re on a construction site and a backhoe runs over you. That’s a struck-by accident,” said Farley. “You have to remember that we protect all workers in this state, but so much of our work is from blue-collared workers: people who work with their hands, the kind of people who shower after work in-
The House speaker highlighted the stark contrast in political differences from just a few decades ago when the two major parties argued over tax rates and “shades of regulation” to fighting to maintain “our incredible constitutional republic” amid the country’s 250th anniversary. Buckhout praised Johnson’s leadership and emphasized jobs and economic issues for eastern North Carolina while criticizing Davis for calling the district “forgotten” despite already serving two terms. “My opponent actually called it the forgotten district — forgetting that he has already been in for two terms,” Buckhout said of Davis. “So I think he’s one of those who’s doing the forgetting. I don’t believe in that. “We need to bring jobs. We need to lift the district up economically. We need to support our farmers with some serious legislation that will enable family farms to continue to go, that will enable them to pass it on to their children.” Johnson stressed Buckhout’s background as a combat leader, having led a battalion of roughly 800 troops, a small-business owner who created jobs and her background as part of a military family. North State Journal asked Johnson whether Elon Musk’s America PAC, which reportedly is poised to spend between $100 million and $120 million boost-
“I came into office wanting to be a champion for them and make this agency work better for them.” Luke Farley, state Labor commissioner stead of before work. Those are the people we are focused on protecting, and that’s why the struck-by initiative exists to protect those people.” The struck-by initiative will focus on preventing struck-by injuries by developing comprehensive inspection guides, notifying affected industries and employers while providing enhanced outreach. Farley added that, as Labor commissioner, the thing he loves most is that he gets up every day and all he has to do is “work to make North Carolina a better place for the workers of this state.” “If there’s something I don’t like about it, (it’s) that I’m an impatient person,” said Farley. “I want to make a lot of progress in a very short amount of time, and that’s just not easy sometimes. Even my own agency is a big agency, and making change on a big scale just doesn’t happen as quickly as I would like.” Part 2 of NSJ’s interview with Farley will cover his priorities for reelection, his visit with Pope Leo XIV and AI in the workforce.
RALEIGH — State Auditor Dave Boliek and Attorney General Jeff Jackson have joined the Southeast Fraud Enforcement Partnership, a federal-state initiative targeting money lost to fraud and the strengthening of fraud enforcement efforts. “State leaders across the Southeast have come together in an effort to hold fraudsters accountable for taking advantage of American taxpayers,” said Boliek in a press release. “The Office of the State Auditor is committed to tracking down taxpayer dollars directed to programs like Medicaid and unemployment benefits to ensure they are used as intended. “I’m honored to represent North Carolina in this state-federal partnership that will undoubtedly be a fraud crackdown that this country needs on a national level.” “This is what a united front looks like,” said Jackson in a press release. “The acceptable level of fraud is zero, and as these fraudsters become more sophisticated, we have to step up our enforcement actions, use new tools, and work across jurisdictions to take them down.” Fraud cases in North Carolina include two Romanian brothers who pleaded guilty to wire fraud involving SNAP benefits, which caused nearly $766,000 in losses. Adedayo Afolabi Fateru, a member of a money laundering ring, pleaded guilty to various fraud schemes such as false applications for Economic Injury Disaster Loans and false applications for unemployment benefits. He caused nearly $1.7 million in losses. A woman in Robeson County who was the owner of a North Carolina tax return preparation business pleaded guilty, along with seven coconspirators, to preparing false returns claiming fraudulent refunds based on COVID-19 tax credits. They caused nearly $25 million in losses. The Southeast Fraud Enforcement Partnership spans across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina and South Car-
olina. Charges related to fraud involve more than $350 million in losses involving cases with SNAP benefits, Small Business Administration loans, housing benefits and tax fraud. Since July 4, federal prosecutors charged cases reaching more than $90 million in losses, with the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division having announced a formation of federal-state anti-fraud task forces in North Carolina, Mississippi and Florida. Representatives from 18 U.S. attorneys’ offices, seven state attorneys general’s offices, five federal law enforcement partners and more than 50 state officials participated in a roundtable to discuss cooperation agreements. Additionally, several Republican attorneys general joined the fraud enforcement initiative. “Beyond the data streams that are now starting to flow, we are forging more and better relationships with our state partners,” Assistant U.S. Attorney General Colin McDonald said in a press conference. “For example, in North Carolina, federal prosecutors are working directly with state program leaders responsible for overseeing federally funded programs, searching for criminals committing Medicaid, SNAP and daycare fraud.” Several other states have similar fraud cases that caused millions of dollars in losses. In Alabama, nearly $70 million was lost from fraudulent tax returns. An individual in Florida owed nearly $35 million for lying on tax returns. Healthcare fraud in Louisiana totaled $174 million in fraudulent claims. An employee of the Small Business Administration in Mississippi devised a kickback scheme to generate more than $11.5 million in fraudulent loan payments. “Defeating the fraud epidemic in our country requires all hands on deck from our federal and state partners nationwide,” said McDonald. “Whether it’s sharing intelligence, data, personnel or priorities, partnering with state agencies directly strengthens our ability to identify those stealing taxpayer dollars. When federal prosecutors work alongside state agencies to root out fraud, fraudsters lose and the American people win.”
U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), right, joined Laurie Buckhout, who is running for Congress in North Carolina’s 1st Congressional District, at a campaign event Aug. 4 in Greenville.
PJ WARD-BROWN / NORTH STATE JOURNAL
ing candidates in more than half a dozen states, would include Buckhout’s bid. Johnson reiterated Buckhout was “top priority” and that he was “on the path to raise $400 million by November,” which he said would be spread out “mostly among about 20 seats.” “We’re going to make sure Laurie has the resources to get this done, but we need everybody to do their part because these are expensive races,” said Johnson. “Not what the Founding Fathers intended, but this is what it takes to win these races.” Federal Election Commission (FEC) campaign finance reports
for the second quarter show both Buckhout and Davis each raised about $1.05 million. Per the FEC, Buckhout had about $1.8 million cash on hand to Davis’ $3.6 million for that reporting period. Johnson said he is “very confident” Buckhout will win in November and believes “we’re going to defy history and win the majority.” Johnson underscored Republicans “have a great record to run on,” citing tax cuts under the One Big Beautiful Bill. He also said Republicans have better candidates than the Democrats, saying Demo-
crats are “on the verge of an almost open civil war because the communists are eating their own and they’re taking over the party.” He added reporters should be covering the Democratic Socialists of America’s platform, which includes abolishing borders, prisons, police, the U.S. Senate and the presidency, as well as ending the electoral college — a belief recently expressed by former Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris. “This is dangerous ideology,” Johnson said. “It must be defeated, and that’s one of the reasons we’re going to win.”
A4
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL
No more Ray-Ban government If anyone can explain how purchasing sunglasses is going to fill a pothole or educate a child in Cary, then more power to them.
STATE AUDITOR Dave Boliek and his team are doing the people of North Carolina an amazing public service. Each of them should be awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine after just a year in office. They are helping redefine what it means to be an honest public servant and make sure every tax dollar paid by hardworking citizens is being used to solve the problems we all want government to solve. In July, Boliek’s office released a pretty damning audit of the way Cary, a Wake County town and suburb of Raleigh, had issued 628 Visa cards to 62% of town employees and rung up transactions totaling more than $24 million ostensibly made solely to conduct town government activities. Included in such purchases was a $1,600 charge to buy 10 pairs of Ray-Ban sunglasses for town council members. If anyone can explain how purchasing sunglasses is going to fill a pothole or educate a child in Cary, then more power to them. Another eye-opening purchase was a $4,164 dinner for the town council and staff at Rey’s Restaurant, a fine-dining steakhouse in Raleigh. There was an eye-popping $3,419 charge for a penthouse stay for former Town Manager Sean Stegal, with the operative word being “former.” Many on the Democratic left became fairly apoplectic when the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) started peeling back the layers of wasteful spending in the federal government in the early days of the second Trump administration. They claimed essential services were being cut off unnecessarily
— but in the process, they wound up defending wasteful spending in government everywhere by simply denying it exists. People on the left who are concerned about social programs to help the poor and defenseless should be leading the charge against wasteful spending. One dollar of tax money spent on Ray-Bans is one dollar less that can be spent to help feed the poor, house the homeless or fix any pothole around town. A dollar stolen or wasted from any government till is a dollar that cannot be spent to help the people the left says they want to help. People on the right have been rightly incensed about waste, fraud and abuse from the beginning of the republic. They believe they can spend their money better than any elected politician or unelected bureaucrat. They rightly know that every dollar they don’t send to a government authority cannot be wasted or stolen by someone they don’t know or will never meet. Boliek’s audit team has found tens of millions of dollars of financial irregularities in Rocky Mount and Cary. If that amount of fraud and financial malfeasance can be found in the 20thand seventh-largest municipalities in the state, respectively, what is going on in all the others? And for how long has it been allowed to happen? Some want to discount such discrepancies as simple “rounding errors” or “decimal dust” in the grand scope of things. The total spend in all North Carolina cities and towns exceeds $10 billion, so just a 2% error rate amounts to $200 million of taxpayer dollars being
wasted annually in municipal governance. Consider what could have been done with that money in terms of providing better roads and education or childcare assistance. I recently had a conversation with a tax accountant who was in the middle of finishing up tax returns for people who had filed for extensions in April. He said the hardest thing for him to do was to tell them their $5,000, $10,000 or $50,000 check had to be sent by the deadline to various levels of government — although he had no way to guarantee them their money wouldn’t wind up being sent to Somalia, passed to the hands of fraudsters or wasted on unnecessary credit card payments made by civil servants such as what happened in Cary. He genuinely felt conflicted by doing what he was supposed to do by helping prepare tax returns. At what point will the people of North Carolina and America rise up and demand that every tax dollar they spend is 100% guaranteed to be spent on the purposes intended as passed and signed into law? When it comes to being forced to pay taxes to local, state and federal governments, the very least taxpayers should expect is every dollar is going to benefit the public as a whole and not elected officials or their staff. Boliek and his team should investigate the budgets of every municipality in North Carolina, and when he is done, examine every department in state government. While he is at it, perhaps he and his team can take a look at the federal government now that Elon Musk has moved on to other things.
EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS
The WNBA sets a course for self-destruction
“Thirty years of women fighting to get this league built, and the question on the table this week is what a woman is.” Kyle Kuzma
BEFORE FORMER University of Iowa Hawkeyes basketball player Caitlin Clark joined the WNBA’s Indiana Fever in 2024, viewership in the now-30-year-old league wasn’t so great. As noted by OutKick Sports back in July, “before Clark entered the league, the WNBA had gone nearly 16 years without a game averaging one million viewers. USA Sports just waited seven days for Clark to draw one million viewers for the third time this season on its network.” Despite the point guard’s undeniable star power, the WNBA and its referees seem hell-bent on looking the other way when it comes to flagrant fouls committed against her, some of which seem intentional and designed to do more than just stop her plays on the ball. Clark’s coach, Stephanie White, sometimes won’t even defend her, telling reporters who inquire about some of the fouls that they were merely made in the course of a “basketball play.” Clark’s teammate, Fever guard Sophie Cunningham, has also been in the news recently after telling ESPN in a profile piece, “I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn’t have to go against biological men.” The result is that Cunningham and some of her fans have been subjected to
hate and harassment at games, including from Seattle Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton. Several female WNBA coaches have also gotten in on the action by virtue signaling about showing love for transgender athletes and how sports are supposedly all about “inclusiveness.” In reality, sports are about finding the most skilled players you can for the job and signing them on to your team, regardless of the color of their skin or whether they check off some box. Further, men’s and women’s sports have deliberately been segregated for decades primarily because men’s and women’s bodies are different in terms of strength and stamina. But because the door to this debate has again been opened, we now have at least one WNBA player who has said she’d welcome a transgender woman (biological man) on her team or her opponent’s team. Golden State Valkyries forward Gabby Williams declared, “I would welcome a trans athlete on my team or against my team, anytime. I don’t think it’s a problem in the world. It’s just another way to kind of attack trans people.” In response to the woke uproar over Cunningham’s sensible remarks, two former NBA players, Enes Kanter Freedom and Royce White, have declared themselves for the next WNBA Draft,
with Freedom noting, “If simply declaring who you are is all that’s required, then I meet every single requirement necessary to compete in the WNBA.” WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert has since issued a memo to teams, stating the league will discuss the transgender athlete issue with team presidents and general managers in meetings this week, according to The Associated Press. “We recognize that this is a complex and nuanced topic, and we will continue to have important conversations with all of you and the Players Association in the weeks and months ahead,” Engelbert wrote. Perhaps the best reaction to this news came from a current NBA player, Kyle Kuzma. “Thirty years of women fighting to get this league built, and the question on the table this week is what a woman is,” Kuzma posted on X. “Needing a committee to find that answer is a disservice to every girl who was told this league was for her.” I couldn’t have said it better myself. 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.
A5
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
COLUMN | NAN MILLER
The revival of the American mind Clay Routledge found more than 70% of ON AUG. 14, 2016, I clipped a Mallard respondents admitting “college has changed Fillmore cartoon that features a bespectacled their view of America to be more negative” professor declaring, “It’s hard to blame — and nowhere is that view more apparent Western civilization for ALL of the world’s than in Gen Z’s support for the Democratic problems! And even harder to blame Socialist candidates who are running for everything on America, or capitalism, or Congress. Christians or white people! That’s why it Unschooled in the failures of socialism takes a professional like me to do it right!” Students and bewitched by the promise of free stuff, The punchline, “Welcome to college, kids,” is students become soft targets for Marxist delivered with a smirk. enrolled professors who never link socialism to That cocksure professor spoke for three in UNC’s stagnation, corruption and oppression, and generations of scholars who rose to stardom who won’t let slip that Marx himself lived School of in the late ’70s doing just that — blaming squalor, prompting his own mother to Western civilization for all the world’s Civic Life and in withdraw her support and go public wishing problems — racism, sexism, colonialism and Leadership “Karl would accumulate capital instead of all the other isms perpetrated by dead white just writing about it.” males. Under the spell of German-American will be There would be no reason to track the philosopher Herbert Marcuse’s 1967 exposed hard left’s march through our universities if manifesto, they had joined “the long march a countermarch weren’t underway in Chapel through the institutions: working against to other Hill. In 2023, UNC Chapel Hill joined the the established institutions while working possibilities. nationwide movement to provide an antidote within them” in hopes that “a subversive to ideologues who aim “to blind Westerners majority could develop” — then overthrow to their magnificent traditions and to rub the “establishment.” their noses, like misbehaving dogs, in The Marcuse effect has survived six decades of pummeling by dissenting scholars who liken their worst offenses.” That is precisely why renowned historian James Hankins has just left Harvard the so-called Father of the New Left to an “ideological University to join the University of Florida’s Hamilton tyrant” whose disciples have dismembered the core School for Classical and Civic Education. curriculum, denounced great writers for past crimes Under the leadership of Dean Jed Atkins, UNC’s of political incorrectness, and in some cases struck School of Civic Life and Leadership (SCiLL) is the likes of Homer, Dante and Shakespeare from their “building a model for universities across the nation, syllabi altogether. grounded in open inquiry, civil discourse, and the Chicago professor Allan Bloom was the first to pursuit of meaning and truth.” With Chancellor Lee equate the New Left’s takeover of our universities Roberts’ full-throated support, SCiLL will survive with “The Closing of the American Mind” and to note critics who argue the new school aims “to force that “Higher Education Has Failed Democracy and students’ education into preapproved ideological Impoverished the Souls of Today’s Students.” Bloom spoke for veteran educators nationwide when he argued containers.” Critics who urge students to “boycott SCiLL” fail to note that the only ideological containers that “the failure to read good books both enfeebles the they approve are the ones they themselves invented in vision and strengthens our most fatal tendency — the the late ’70s. belief that the here and now is all there is.” Four decades have passed since Allan Bloom For proposing the revival of “the good old Great warned that “the most successful tyranny is not the Books approach” to teaching, Bloom’s critics called one that uses force to assure uniformity but the one him “vengeful, reactionary and antidemocratic” and that removes the awareness of other possibilities.” dismissed his 1987 bestseller as “a laundry list of cheap Students enrolled in UNC’s School of Civic Life and slanders.” For endorsing Bloom’s argument and for Leadership will be exposed to other possibilities, will dubbing anti-Western professors “Tenured Radicals,” learn “patience within plurality” and will graduate with pundit Roger Kimball’s 1990 bestseller was dismissed an appreciation for their Western heritage. as the “new McCarthyism.” The impact tenured radicals can have on pliant Nan Miller is professor emerita in literature at youth shows up in the nationwide survey of college Meredith College and resides in Raleigh. students Newsweek published in 2022. Psychologist
COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI
Abdul El-Sayed is an American tragedy about the “genocidal,” “bloodthirsty” and DR. ABDUL EL-SAYED, the Michigan “evil” disposition of world Jewry. Democratic Senate nominee, grew up in an Yet at the same time, El-Sayed won’t take affluent suburb of Detroit. a public stand on the death of America’s The median household income in his enemy, terrorist leader and mass murderer hometown of Rochester Hills, named Ali Khamenei, for fear of insulting his after Revolutionary War hero Nathaniel constituents. Rochester, is roughly $120,000. Not bad. If this is true, and we have no reason to By the time El-Sayed graduated from He is an believe otherwise, there is something deeply the local high school, well over 95% of his wrong and un-American happening in this classmates were also headed to college. extremist by country. At the University of Michigan, an choice. Judging from his friends, there is institution co-founded by the Catholic priest something deeply wrong with El-Sayed, as Gabriel Richard and Presbyterian minister well. John Monteith, El-Sayed excelled, graduated After all, no one forced El-Sayed to appear with high honors and delivered his class’s with a Holocaust-denying traitorous imam commencement speech. who holds vigils for terrorists and asks Allah “to grant After receiving a full scholarship to the University victory to our brothers in Iran.” of Michigan Medical School, El-Sayed won a Rhodes No one forced El-Sayed to closely ally with Hasan Scholarship, a prestigious academic award named Piker, a man who believes 3,000 innocent Americans after Cecil Rhodes, a diamond mining magnate and deserved to die on 9/11, who wants the streets to champion of the British Empire. He then attended Oriel College — “The College of the “soak in red capitalist blood,” and who says he holds Blessed Virgin Mary,” to be exact — at the University of no patriotic feeling for America but celebrates mass murderers such as Mao Zedong. At this point, even if Oxford, ultimately earning a doctor of medicine degree El-Sayed condemned Piker, which he hasn’t, no one from Columbia University, a school named after the should believe it. great Italian explorer Christopher Columbus. Of course, when El-Sayed empathizes with an Born into a society of unprecedented wealth built American Islamic terrorist who attempted to murder on American work ethic, capitalistic imagination, a kindergarten filled with Jewish children in Michigan Christian ethical and communal norms, and liberal — “hurt people hurt people” — he gives the game away. freedoms, El-Sayed won the generational lottery. The truth is that El-Sayed’s Islamic background Every step of his impressive career was sustained makes him especially appealing to the Democratic by foundational institutions of Western culture and Socialists of America wing of the left. But he isn’t a American exceptionalism. first-generation immigrant worth celebrating. Indeed, El-Sayed didn’t adopt Third World Marxism he should know better. because of his color or his circumstances. He is one of In his commencement speech at Michigan, El-Sayed the luckiest people to ever live. He is an extremist by claimed that one of the hallmarks of the “American choice. dream” was an “audacity to believe we can change this Our meritocratic system, imperfect as it may be, world.” offered El-Sayed the opportunity to parlay prodigious If El-Sayed really wants to “change the world,” the intelligence into a very good living, advancing Western place to start is Cairo, Khartoum or Damascus, not medical science or caring for his community. Instead, Ann Arbor. As the writer Hussain Abdul Hussain he’s chosen to degrade the nation. retorted, changing America is “a nightmare, one that I El-Sayed’s movement, the people who support left behind and came to America to live the American him most vociferously, wants to abolish not only Dream, as a proud Arab who believes in America, not constitutional governance, eliminating virtually every institution, but also to get rid of our capitalistic system, in changing it.” Like El-Sayed, and millions of others, I also won and import Third World bigotry and violence. a generational lottery. My parents fled European Marxists and Islamists share a deeply illiberal socialism and fascism. While I may or may not be and anti-Christian outlook, but they also share hopelessly wrong on a host of issues, I have zero interest a near-universal antisemitism. In virtually every in importing any of the detestable, failed philosophies Islamic-majority nation, even ones where there are no or ancient prejudices of the wider world. Jews, over 90% of the population is antisemitic. That, however, seems to be El-Sayed’s mission. A recent Pew Research Center survey found that 44% of American Muslims expressed a favorable David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington opinion of Hamas, a group that has murdered dozens Examiner. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated of Americans. columnist and author of five books, most recently “How This is the culture El-Sayed fosters. Virtually every to Kill a Republic.” (Copyright 2026 Creators.com) day, the candidate spreads some medieval conspiracy
COLUMN SCOT MUSSI
The ugly truth behind the campaign to kill school choice THE TEACHERS UNIONS and their allies at Save Our Schools (SOS) have proven time and time again that they will do anything to kill universal school choice in Arizona. They’ve fought expansion of the program. They’ve pushed to cap it. They’ve worked with activist reporters in the legacy media with ties to the Red for Ed teachers union to push false claims about it. And we all witnessed it four years ago when they made their not-so-triumphant proclamation that they had enough signatures to repeal the program — only to discover they had miscounted by more than 50,000 signatures. But their latest attempt to overturn the program is their lowest yet. Earlier this month, the teachers unions and SOS announced they had submitted more than 420,000 signatures for a ballot initiative that would end the universal eligibility of Arizona’s Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA) program. Given their track record, the Arizona Free Enterprise Club worked closely with the Goldwater Institute and other school choice advocates to review the petitions. What we found was far more disturbing than another failed signature count. The teachers unions and SOS want Arizonans to believe that their “Protect Education Act” campaign is a grassroots effort led by concerned parents and educators. But they made a very different choice when it came time to build their campaign. Instead of relying on volunteers — as real grassroots efforts would do — the campaign relied heavily on paid petition circulators. In fact, well over 80% of the signatures submitted were from paid circulators, not volunteers. The campaign was bankrolled by the National Education Association, with nearly $7 million in cash from the Washington, D.C.-based teachers union. But that’s not the worst part. Among those hired were dozens of felons convicted of some of the most serious crimes imaginable — individuals who, in many cases, should not be anywhere near children. We’re talking about sexual predators, kidnappers, human traffickers, murderers, fraudsters and more. These are the people the Protect Education Act campaign put on the front lines of its effort to destroy school choice in Arizona. One circulator identified in the legal challenge, Jesse Redhorse Jr., is a registered sex offender in Flagstaff who was convicted of sexual abuse of a minor. He collected approximately 650 signatures for the anti-ESA initiative and was trusted by the campaign to represent its effort in public, including at events where children were present — despite restrictions related to his release. Where were the background checks? The teachers unions and SOS have spent years accusing ESA families and education providers of fraud and demanding more government oversight, restrictions and scrutiny. They claim they are protecting children. Yet when it came time to advance their own political agenda, they had no problem putting children and families in proximity to individuals with serious criminal histories. The hypocrisy is off the charts. How can voters ever trust a ballot campaign that failed to conduct even basic due diligence on the people collecting signatures for their cause? Altogether, multiple convicted felons collected nearly 28,000 signatures submitted by the Protect Education Act campaign. But the concerns surrounding this initiative go beyond the people hired to collect signatures. The campaign’s petition drive is riddled with issues, including duplicate signatures, petitions with missing information and other irregularities. In total, 218,000 signatures — over half of what was collected by the unions and SOS — are subject to disqualification. If those signatures are removed, the Protect Education Act initiative would fall far short of the number required to qualify for the ballot. That’s why the Club joined the Goldwater Institute’s legal challenge to the anti-ESA initiative. For years, the teachers unions and SOS have told Arizonans that they are the champions of accountability. They demanded more regulations. They demanded more oversight. They demanded more restrictions on Arizona families exercising their right to choose the best education option for their children. But when the spotlight turned to their own campaign, they once again failed to live up to the very standards they demand. Right now, more than 100,000 Arizona students are benefiting from universal school choice because their families found an educational option that works for them. Those families should not have their choices taken away because a union-backed campaign failed to follow the rules and put children in danger. Arizona voters deserve better than a ballot initiative built on questionable signatures, inadequate oversight and a campaign that appears willing to do anything to achieve its political goals. That’s why a lawsuit was filed. And it’s why we will continue defending Arizona families, protecting school choice, and ensuring that the powerful interests trying to take educational freedom away from parents and students are held accountable. Scot Mussi is president of the Arizona Free Enterprise Club.
nsstrophe about when A7 A6 normal
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 13, 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 costreve th Here in North Democratic Gov.The Roycrisis Cooper stated d walnormal.” questions back to have abided by recommendations and o 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 financial fromSome our to are being told remain joblessout and message offor an undetermine become a ague 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 of hope that willof bad thing? thethe more people, sitting at home feeling isolated and/or anxious about ventilators by nearly 13,000 and the num 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 tot 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 tho church some services ad questions about We should families, be open or closed,meltdown whether we oughtSom to w s believe that event, not the Star Warsall continue confident supposed from COVID-19 offers opportunities for a to do what we can to keep our U.S. tax credits to companies whosimply willknow source at least halfdata of their in 1986. what they questioning the and asking when we can start gettin and many more that presumes Sponsored by Union and our communities safe. But we still continue more liberalized society w Sponsored by should also 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 program of are Reagan, to do, lastUnited I to normal as they are$120 conspiracy theorists or people 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 otherwise don’t care if they get themselvesinor1989. 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 inexpiration China. Chinese billion by case fatality Perhaps COVID-19 Since when did questioning government at all levels become a “Academic and to theAmericans, STERIS plans North State Journal for Wednesday, April 15, an starttalking getting backGrievance ThisStudies is all new and to it isinvest not normal. Not in any way, the number of identified COVID-19 cas projected return on investment lready about the possibility 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 wemillion $600 and create of 325%. or are people who shape, or form. So while should remain vigilant and stay safe, at 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 of China forgiving $1.2 over. toon do,half lastof I checked. done by Areo, an opinion and analysis 335 jobs in Sanford Because Lee County is of class sick. same time we shouldn’t get comfortable with this so-called “newbillion, applied to repatriated American manufacturing people have actually died coronaviru hey have caused US. the Don’t hold your today, or $60 China tounder “pay” d digitalthe magazine. By the way, Areo is short My first concern as we go along in all this, of course, isfor mythe fam sified as a Tier 2 county vels become a bad normal.” number has been overestimated, given t bilee” to happen but ask your elected n for Areopagitica, 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 the state’s economic developiety were supposed Not one little bit. of death, 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 representatives hold ment ranking system, asthe much By Dan Reeves suffering fromin the H1N1 virus flu) during 2009topande in. Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A. North State Journal sources suggest the is dramatic decimal dust compared to the $6 I’ve trillion+ Marshall Plan extra we are now as $357,000 tied tonumber the grant this disaster. been trying to take precautions, because all of this brin Lindsay and Peter Boghossian say has that also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah rse, to is my family. Stacey Matthews many people are dying home. cted operate as I’m responsible citizens of could also be directed North undertaking to save our own economy, notmany of defeated enemies as in the It istoat about timenot 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 to RedState and Legal Insurrection. Even more importantly, we have no cl Carolina’s Industrial DevelopSANFORD — Global healthnation. past. the world like any othe But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone in academia, especially within certaincare company STERIS plans to ment Fund Utility Account. he 2009 pandemic, actually have coronavirus. Some scienti China has been cheating, stealing, pirating and pillaging American fields within the humanities. They callinvest $600 million in a new The fund helps communities all 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 these fields “grievance studies,” where manufacturing and distribupay for infrastructure improveNeal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill,coronav senio RALEIGH doughnut prefer notscholarship to repeat.—isA Texas number of people who have had not so much based upontion campus in Sanford, a projintend to replace the U.S. as the premier superpower in the world and to recruit or expand ments used chain known for its hot glazed most everyone hastruth but upon attending to finding replace the dollar as the reserve currency with their renminbi. doughnuts and savory kolaches businesses. ect expected to create 335 jobs
business & economy Fixing college n.c. corruption FAST
FACTS
Healthcare company plans 600K-square-foot manufacturing, distribution campus in Lee County A6
Texas-based chain targets 2027 opening as it expands to NC Approved Logos
north STA
grievances. scholars and further expand Lee Counissocial preparing to expandGrievance into the The STERIS announcement bully students, administrators Triangle, adding another fast-growingand other adds another large manufacty’s growing advanced manuINDY BEETLE VIA WIKIMEDIA COMMONS departments adhering restaurant brandinto to the region’s to their turing investment to the Sanfacturing sector. competitive market. they promote is worldview.breakfast The worldview Jasonhas attracted ford area, which Gov. Josh Stein announced Sanford in Lee County is set for a major new investment Houston-based Do-Nuts Grievance n neither scientificShipley nor rigorous. EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS a series of life sciences, pharthe project last week, saying from healthcare company STERIS. has signedconsist a two-unit franchise such as ose studies of disciplines maceutical and advanced manthe company will establish a agreement Plexus Raleigh LLC, studies, sociology,with anthropology, gender ufacturing projects in recent 600,000-square-foot Chemled by Hillsborough entrepreneur COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON queer studies, sexuality and critical race years. will allow the company to accelistries Manufacturing CenDana Norman. The group plans to studies. “STERIS’ decision to make erate product development, inter of Excellence that will inopen its first Triangle location in Infollowed 2017 and authors 2027, by a2018, second in 2028.Pluckrose, crease capacity, and improve its its Center of Excellence in Lee clude manufacturing, research “Our customers save Lindsay and have Boghossian started Exact locations not yet been U.S. manufacturing and distri- County affirms the region’s and development, laborato- lives every day, and with s submitting bogus academic papers to ry, warehouse and distribution selected. emergence as a premier hub for bution network. this investment we will The expansion will build on academic journals in cultural, queer, operations. “Our customers save lives ev- advanced manufacturing,” N.C. Shipley’s recent fat entry intosexuality North race, gender, and studies The new jobs will have an av- be well positioned to ery day, and with this invest- Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley Carolina. The company to determine if theyopened wouldits pass peer erage annual salary of $68,704, ment we will be well positioned said. first store in the state in Concord, just support their needs for under “THIS IS THE DAYinto the lord mad he seriousness of and the virus and the review be accepted for need publication. WITH MOST STATES either their shelter-in-place or stay-at-home fallen place. I unde The state worked with a has to support needs for years above Lee County’s average north of Charlotte, in February 2025 Acceptance of dubious research that wage of $59,903, according to years in it” (Psalm 118:24). asy with how people who simply ask to come.” broad group of to local reorders thanks to local or statetogovernments, come,” he said. a majority of Americans takeand precautions, bu and has identified North Carolina journal editors found sympathetic to their I knowpartners that during thisprojchallenging t hen thingsas can getting back to gional on the The project isthe being supportthe N.C. Department of Coma keystart growth market as it pushes are having to adjust to what is being called “new normal.” questions about the dat STERIS CEO intersectional or postmodern leftist vision beyond its traditional Texas footprint. ect, including the Economed by a Job Development Inmerce. At full employment, Dan Carestio, working from home or losing a job, it m es with contempt. Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. normal are treated in s ofFounded the world would prove the problem of in Houston in 1936, Development Partnership of vestment Grant approved by beicglad” the project could generate an as the Bible tells us to do. as How as a societylow simply must accept without Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June. They’re treated th academic standards. Shipley has grown to more than North Carolina, N.C.holiday Biotechthe state’s Economic Invest- and annual payroll of more than dad, the Easter has remind ells us about when it’s safe to begin the Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during question what the gove ofThe thechain fakespecializes research papers $23 million. 390Several locations. nology Center, Central Carolina more than 18,000 people at ment Committee. and of hopeful for, eve malcy. inwere doughnuts made fresh daily, accepted for publication. The Fat “STERIS is making a ma- roughly a recent thatthe “we12-year just don’t knowhave yet”to if be thethankful process returning ba Community College, the SanUnder agree250coronavirus locations in press more briefing including signature glazed Lenten and pandemic. r us, and we haveits the right to askvariety, those Studies journal published a hoax paperjor investment in North Caroli- than state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May. No. The government ford Area Growth Alliance, Lee ment, STERIS could receive as 35 countries. Since when did along iced and that with argued the term bodybuilding wasna, which reinforces our state’s For me, my faith is Sanford. an important par t-home orders arefilled, in place allcake over the Easter seasons and the city of If Sanford he doesfacility decidewill to extend it, questions should be asked asCounty to the as $3.21 million in reimquestions. And the long The con- much doughnuts, pastries, coffee and exclusionary andas should be replaced reputation as questioning making. As I celebrated Easter with my f them getkolaches. in states, such Michigan, Transportation and utility bursements from the state if it and expand portions a powerhouse in solidate justification for it. And the answers should notabe vague ones like “we country, and the stricte provide with “fat bodybuilding, as a fat-inclusive partners include the N.C. Demeets required job creation and the do company’s formulatthe life sciencesgovernment industry,” Stein of must Corinthians 1:4, which reminds us our feeling isolated and/or anxious Kolaches, a longtime Texasabout this out of an abundance of caution.” the more people, sitting message ofPayments partment of Transportation’s politicized performance.” said. “Decadesat ofall excellence in ed chemistries breakfast staple, are made withOne reviewer affliction, so thatwhen we may able com ding for their families, will demand levels It will needmanufacturing to be explainedinvestment in detailhope totargets. the people of this state who theybecan gettoback ns said, “I thoroughly enjoyed reading this thatthe wedepartwill dough wrapped around savory Rail Division, North Carolimanufacturing and innovation and distribution operations as are made only after affliction, with the comfort which we ou are being to remain jobless andofatCommerce home forand an undetermined answers. , article andasbelieve itegg, has an importanthave developedbecome fillings such sausage, a Norfolk ments Reve- na Railroad Company, STERIS lookstold to increase U.S. the world-class once again enjoy God.” levels should be as forthcoming as they contribution to make to the field and this amount capacity. of time why models predicting hundreds thousands of casesTriRiverLeaders at the local a bacon and cheese. They remain Water and nue verify the companyof has met Southern, talent, research supply production bad and thing? sporting events, If you are celebrating the Easter seas d again, not vague answers, but answer relatively uncommon among major journal.” are reliable. can be with those answ Duke Energy. “After extensive analysis of those benchmarks. chain that continues to attract breakfast in the “Our chains Struggle Is Triangle, My Struggle: Solidarity That is what reflect on this message and be comforte ments believability. concerts, family “This landmark investment officials theand then To date,facilities I’ve gone along what the stateestimate has asked with details that give th and cus- with State global companies and drive our existing giving Shipleyas a menu item that couldReply to Feminism anfamilies, Intersectional God’s example mark andWe comfort allallthose in what we can to keep our and expansion an should exciting project increase North demand, we we have decidlong-term economic growth tomer free citizens mandated that do, but along thewill way I’ve also had Carquestions about contin gatherings, help distinguish the brand from se Neoliberal and Feminism,” wasacross our state.” new chapter for both the comolina’s economy by about $1.8 edthe to make a significant investthis difficult time. Through faith and by safe. But established we shouldcompetitors. alsoChoice still continue data. State Republican leaders have, too. services ourselves, and our com church living in a free accepted for publication by Affilia, a pany and our community, creover the life of the grant. in the United when States certain to billion Founded in 1985, STERIS mentUnfortunately, Norman comes to stay-at-home the franchise confident we will emerge out of this pan because while reasonable types ofand questions get asked, there is to ask questions about s feministafter journal for social workers. The many more society were opportunities forI continue shared to be in Commerce estimates the ating support our long-term global provides products and services more than two date. Inthose this same spirit, hey shouldbusiness also have an expiration sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treat measures are understa paper consisted in part of a rewritten decades in service-oriented economgenerate $4.25 in growth and long-term used in patientsupposed care, with a par- growth,” STERIS President and project will after our own neighbors helping neighbors. and it is not normal. Not in any way,Two other passage from Mein Kampf. simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting back This is all industries as a licensed state revenue for every $1 in po- ic prosperity,” state Sen. Jimnew to Am ticular focus on infection pre- CEO Dan Carestio said. temporary In Concord, high school senior nam uld remaincosmetologist vigilant and stay safe, at includingvention. The company hoax papers were published, and funeral director. to do, last I to normal asthe though they aretential conspiracy theorists or areapeople who or form. So whil Burgin said. a shape, state cost, representing Carestio said new center employs . “Rape and Queer Performativity She saidCulture Shipley’s history and money to buy a 3-D printer and plastic comfortable with this so-called “new sacrifices are otherwise don’t care if they get themselves or others sick. the same time we shou checked. emphasis freshParks.” products made at UrbanonDog This paper’s subject health care workers out of his own hom Since when did questioning government at all levels become a bad normal.” over. the concept appealing for her was dog-on-dog rape. Butfirst the dog rape thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed Not one little bit. move into food service. paper eventually forced Boghossian, “I’ve spentand my career taking to do, last I checked. Pluckrose Lindsay to prematurely out carepseudonym of people during life’s biggest n under the Sister Toldjah My first concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. I’m Stacey Matthews has a themselves. A Wall Street Journal writer moments,” Norman said in 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 announcing the agreement. “Now papers for publication suffering from the H1N1 virus (swine flu) during the 2009 pandemic, I getSome to bring peopleaccepted together over in academic journals advocated training something simple and joyful: a hot, I’ve been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings up mendonut.” like dogs and punishing white male fresh way too many memories of a painful experience I’d prefer not to repeat. The Triangle dealfor comes as college students historical slavery by But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has Shipley accelerates franchise asking them to sit in silence on the floor in development across theand country. n chains during class to be expected to The company has promoted learn from the discomfort. Other papers North Carolina as one of its larger ity celebrated morbid obesity as a healthyConcerns life were raised of you have shared thoughtful in an effort to create more conexpansion opportunities, previously choice and advocated treating privately over the premium pay and candid feedback regardsistent staffing practices across identifying potential for dozens conducted as a form of staffing system “Putting nurses against of locations inmasturbation Raleigh, Charlotte, ing the recent communicathe health system. d sexual violence against women. Typically, Greensboro and Winston-Salem. tion about premium shift opUnder the process originally each other and going for as academic journal editors send submitted Shipley says the initial investment portunities,” he wrote. “I have described to employees, workthe lowest bid, to me, it papers to referees review. In By Dan Reeves to open aout franchise ranges for from listened carefully, and I want ers could request an available about $516,000 to $855,000 perfor publication, recommending acceptance to address those concerns shift at a particular premium sets the whole system North State Journal store, realgave estate costs.papers glowing manyexcluding reviewers these directly.” rate. Other eligible employees The company also says the top half up — it sets everybody praise. UNC Hospitals will conCHAPEL HILL — UNC could request the same shift at of itsPolitical shops average about $1.2 scientist Zach Goldberg ranHospitals says it will not use a progressively lower premium up for failure.” tinue using the staffing platmillion in annual sales, according ss certain grievance studies concepts through form without the bidding feature that would allow nurs- rates while the shift remained to information in its 2026 franchise UNC Hospitals nurse d the Lexis/Nexis database, to see how often component. disclosure document. es and other eligible employ- open. they in ourreflects press over the years. Theappeared franchise model Lee said the system will be The original communicaees to compete for premium He found huge increases in the usagespay shifts by submitting pro- tion said shifts generally would broader competition in the used to identify staffing needs of “white privilege,” “unconscious bias,”gressively lower rates after staff be awarded based on the low- long is teamwork, teamwork, earlier, increase transparency quick-service breakfast category, where operators are battling ng “critical race theory” and “whiteness.” raised concerns about the new est bid submitted, although teamwork,” she said. “That’s around premium shift opporfor drive- to college Allcustomers of this isthrough being taught tunities, reduce administrative staffing leaders could consid- how healthcare works.” staffing process. thru convenience, loyalty students, manycoffee, of whom become primaryIn a message to employees er specific skills, competencies The nurse also said workers work and help ensure nurses programs and portable morning c. and secondary school teachers who then Sunday, UNC Medical Cen- and unit needs when making on the same unit would likely have the staffing support needfoods. indoctrinate our young people. learn who received a shift, po- ed to provide patient care. ter President Min Lee said lan- assignments. For Triangle customers, however, n I doubt whether the coronavirus- guage in an earlier commu“The idea of nurses competThat language quickly drew tentially creating resentment if the most noticeable addition may be caused financial crunch will give college one employee accepted a lower ing against one another does nication stating that critical concern from nurses. the kolache.
VISUAL VOICES
s’
o?
It’s okay to ask questions about when The we begin to get back to comfort normal and ho
UNC Hospitals says nurse shift-bidding feature will not be used after backlash
and university administrators, who arestaffing a shifts generally would crossbreedNORTH between a parrot and jellyfish, STATE JOURNAL STAFF be awarded based on the lowest the guts and backbone to restore academic bid was a mistake. respectability. Far too often, they get much “This was a mistake, and I of their political support from campusam truly sorry for the confugrievance people who are members of sion the and angst this has caused,” faculty and diversity and multiculturalLee wrote. NCDOT CASH REPORT administrative offices. Lee said the bidding funcFOR AUG. 6 TheTHE bestWEEK hopeENDING lies with boards of tion is part of the new staffing trustees, though many serve as yes-men platform but will not be used at for the university president. I think that a Hospitals. UNC Beginning Cash good start would be to find 1950s or 1960s “Let me be clear: while the catalogs. Look at the course offerings at $2,454,270,811 bidding function is a feature on a time when college graduates knew how the platform, it will not be used Receipts (income) to read, write and compute, and makeat UNC Hospitals,” Lee wrote. them today’s curricula. Another helpful “I am committed to a process $108,455,312 tool would be to give careful consideration that supports teamwork, not to eliminating all classes/majors/minors Disbursements competition.” containing the word “studies,” such as UNC Hospitals announced $159,562,330 women, Asian, black or queer studies. July 22 that it would transition I’d bet that by restoring the traditionalfrom its Critical Staffing proCash Balance academic mission to colleges, they would cess to BidShift beginning Aug. put$2,403,235,629 a serious dent into the COVID-19 2 as part of UNC Health’s Forbudget shortfall. ward Together 2030 initiative Walter E. Williams is a professor of economics at George Mason University.
One UNC Health per diem nurse told North State Journal the proposed bidding process conflicted with the team-based nature of nursing. The nurse works primarily in an outpatient setting and said she was unlikely to be directly affected by the change but strongly opposed the concept. “It was a horrible idea from the jump,” the nurse said. “Putting nurses against each other and going for the lowest bid, to me, it sets the whole system up — it sets everybody up for failure.” She said nurses depend on one another to provide patient care, and having employees compete for additional shifts could damage those working relationships. “All we’ve been fed for so
premium than another. “All it does is create this undercurrent of animosity, disdain, competitiveness,” she said. “It doesn’t serve anybody well except for maybe the institution, who is getting a nurse for $5 less.” She acknowledged the financial pressures facing hospitals but questioned whether nursing compensation was the right place to cut costs. “I understand that it is a business and that people need to cover their costs,” she said. “But I think the place to save however much money is not in your nursing staff.” Lee said UNC Hospitals received feedback from employees following the original communication. “Over the past week, many
not reflect who we are as an organization or the collaborative culture we strive to strengthen,” Lee wrote. Exactly how premium shifts will be awarded when several qualified employees request the same opening remains unclear. The per diem nurse said that was one of her questions after learning the bidding feature would not be used. “I’m not understanding what the use of the software is because it seems like that’s their model,” she said. She said a centralized platform could still help managers on large units advertise and fill open shifts, but she did not know how UNC Hospitals plans to choose among multiple employees seeking the same shift.
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Marie Birdie Sport brings empowering performance apparel to Pinehurst The brand focuses on girls and women By Elizabeth Lincicome For North State Journal ACCORDING to the LPGA, more than 90,000 teen girls and younger juniors participate annually in the USGA Girls Golf program, with more than 1.28 million female junior golfers playing across the United States. A 2024 report from the National Golf Foundation found that a record 28% of all on-course golfers were women. It is fitting, then, that Marie Birdie Sport, a performance and lifestyle apparel brand created for minis, girls, teens and women, has opened its second retail location in the Village of Pinehurst. Marie Birdie Sport was cofounded in 2021 by Rebekah Alfond alongside her daughters, Elena and Vivi, after Rebekah recognized a void in the market while her young daughters were competing in junior golf. What began with that vision has since grown into a multigenerational brand serving minis, girls, teens and women, with collections designed for golf, racquet sports and an active lifestyle. The brand later established its operations in West Palm Beach, Florida, where it opened its first retail location. The new store in Pinehurst, which opened July 3, is Marie Birdie Sport’s second retail location. This past year, Marie Birdie Sport welcomed LPGA professional Gaby López as an official brand ambassador. She was wearing all Marie Birdie as she finished runner-up at the U.S. Women’s Open. Carey Jones, vice president of sales, spoke with the North State Journal about the story behind the brand, its con-
PHOTO COURTESY ARIELLE ROBERTS
Marie Birdie Sport’s Pinehurst boutique features the brand’s signature red, pink and coral golf and activewear collections for tweens, teens and women. nection to Pinehurst and what comes next. What is the history of Marie Birdie Sport? Marie Birdie Sport was cofounded by Rebekah Alfond and her daughters, Elena and Vivi, with a simple mission: to create stylish, confidence-building golf performance apparel for girls while making the sport more welcoming and inclusive for the next generation. The idea grew from Rebekah’s own experience as a competitive college golfer and now a mother of rising junior golfers. When her daughters began competing in junior golf, she recognized how limited the apparel choices were for young girls. She saw an opportunity to create something that combined performance, femininity, color and fun in a way that really spoke to them. As the brand has grown, that original vision has expanded from girls into complete collections for minis, teens and women. Today, Marie Birdie Sport is designed for generations, from a 4-year-old picking up a club for the first time to a lifelong
athlete in her 80s. More than anything, the brand is about confidence, connection and belonging. Tell me about your role and how you got involved with the company. I serve as vice president of sales for Marie Birdie Sport. My primary focus is growing the brand through wholesale partnerships, business development, retail strategy and relationships throughout the golf and sports communities. I’ve spent more than 20 years in the fashion industry, and golf and sports have always been a significant part of my life, so I immediately connected with Rebekah’s vision for Marie Birdie Sport. Tell me about the Pinehurst shop. Why Pinehurst, and how has business been so far? The Marie Birdie Sport team officially opened our Pinehurst storefront on July 3, 2026, and the response from both locals and visitors has exceeded our expectations. We’re excit-
ed to now call Pinehurst home year-round. Pinehurst is our second retail location, following our first store in West Palm Beach, Florida, and we couldn’t imagine a better community for this next chapter of Marie Birdie Sport. For the past several years, Marie Birdie Sport has spent time in Pinehurst supporting many of the area’s premier junior golf events, particularly through our relationship with the LPGA USGA Girls Golf Championship at historic Pine Needles Lodge and Golf Club. Through those experiences, the brand developed strong relationships within the community and a genuine connection to Pinehurst. So when the opportunity arose to establish a permanent storefront in the Village, it felt like a very natural next step. How are you looking to grow in the future? For Marie Birdie Sport, growth is about becoming part of the communities we serve, not just opening stores or selling apparel. North Carolina residents will continue to see Marie Birdie Sport supporting junior tournaments, collegiate events, amateur championships, LPGA and PGA events, and youth golf initiatives throughout the state and beyond. North Carolina has one of the strongest golf communities anywhere, and Pinehurst, in particular, brings together generations of athletes and families from around the world. Whether it’s a young girl picking up a club for the first time, a competitive junior chasing her goals, a mother playing alongside her daughter or a woman who has loved the game for decades, we want her to feel like there is a place for her at Marie Birdie Sport.
From Uniqlo to Zara, clothing brands try to win over Gen Z with needle, thread Retailers are turning to repairs and sewing workshops
Levi’s employees teach students during a sewing workshop at a Levi’s retail store in downtown San Francisco on July 22.
By Anne D’Innocenzio The Associated Press NEW YORK — Encouraging customers to mend worn clothes instead of buying new ones might seem like a self-defeating sales strategy. But in-store repairs and sewing workshops are becoming essential retail services for clothing brands as they try to appeal to young consumers who want to save money and the planet. While luxury fashion houses and select specialty retailers like Patagonia have offered product repairs for decades, the concept has caught on. Jeans giant Levi Strauss & Co., casual wear chain Uniqlo and budget retailer Primark are some of the apparel companies hoping to win over Generation Z shoppers with a needle and thread. Levi’s created a hand-stitching course for high school students after determining that many Gen Zers lacked the sewing skills to match their interest in thrift store shopping and sustainability. Employees spend 90 minutes instructing teenagers on four tasks: sewing on a button, hemming, patching a hole and fixing a tear. “We think it’s important to empower the people who buy our clothes with the skill sets to maintain them, to get them to that second life,” Paul Dillinger, Levi’s head of global design innovation, said. Mending tiny part of cutting world’s mountains of textile waste Textile waste — which includes manufacturing rem-
TERRY CHEA / AP PHOTO
nants, unwanted clothes and linens, and unsold products — is one of the industry’s most pressing challenges. Each year, the world generates fabric waste at a rate equivalent to a garbage truck’s worth getting dumped or incinerated every second, the United Nations Environment Program estimates. Researchers broadly agree that repairing and reselling clothes can reduce a garment’s environmental impact, especially if it delays or replaces a new purchase. But many caution the practices remain too limited to offset continued growth in clothing production and consumption. Clothing production roughly doubled between 2000 and 2015, while the average number of wearings per garment declined by about 36%, according to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation. The sustainability nonprofit estimated that less than 1% of discarded clothing material got recycled into new apparel. Enter Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012. Whether due to limited budgets or a rejection of materialism, Gen Z has helped the preowned clothing market grow much faster than retail apparel sales in the U.S., inde-
pendent market intelligence firm GlobalData estimated in a report with resale platform ThredUp. For companies that make new clothes, mending programs and classes address “some deeper consumer needs and consumer behaviors at the moment,” GlobalData retail analyst Neil Saunders said. “It puts a halo on the brand,” he said. Skeptics say environmental impact of retailer repairs limited Zara, which has its headquarters in Spain, launched a digital platform in 2022 for customers to resell their used pieces and to request basic alterations and repairs. The program is available in 17 of the nearly 100 countries where the trend-driven retailer operates. Ireland-based Primark has focused more on customer education. The value-focused retailer hosts free “Love It For Longer” events where customers are taught skills like replacing zippers and buttons. “Learning how to repair and care for clothing is probably one of the simplest but absolutely totally effective ways that we can reduce waste and also extend the lifetime of
whatever we buy,” Vicki Swain, Primark’s product longevity and partnership lead, said. Uniqlo, which focuses on wardrobe staples, offers a range of aftercare services, including repairs, decorative sashiko mending, embroidery and creative restyling. Kate Fletcher, a professor of sustainability, design and fashion systems at England’s Manchester Metropolitan University, said she thinks popular retailers are well-meaning, but she doubts their repair initiatives will have much environmental impact. “The fashion sector’s primary source of impact is due to the overproduction of pieces and growing volumes of garments created,” Fletcher said. “Repairing a garment in store happens in addition to these growing production volumes, not instead of them.” Companies want tax incentives to make efforts more profitable Sweden’s H&M Group, which has more than 4,000 stores in over 80 countries, has been unusually candid about one of the biggest obstacles: the economics. The company has argued that repair and resale are desirable goals, but manufacturing new garments costs less than keeping existing ones in use. Signals from consumers also are mixed. “I think younger shoppers still shop fast fashion because even though it goes against some of their principles, it is one of the most accessible parts of the market,” Saunders said. “But what they’re doing as well, though, is they’re buying into alternative channels like resale. And they’re having things repaired.”
A7 Zuckerberg manifesto pushes open-source approach on AI Meta Platforms has released a new AI model for developers, emphasizing open-source access. CEO Mark Zuckerberg warns against concentrating advanced AI under a few companies or governments. The new model, Muse Glimmer, includes a permissive open-source license, allowing broader use. Zuckerberg argues that open-source AI promotes fair development and helps keep the U.S. competitive. He cautions that AI controlled by select entities could lead to unfavorable outcomes. Zuckerberg also addresses concerns about “distillation,” a method some accuse Chinese companies of using to extract features from U.S. AI models. He said he believes learning from observations is crucial for progress.
Watchdog for $46B tribal gambling industry can’t enforce law without chairperson Albuquerque, N.M. The Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma opened its new Harrah’s-branded casino in April, but plans for Harrah’s to take over casino management are stalled because of a vacancy at a federal watchdog. The National Indian Gaming Commission hasn’t had a chairperson since January, and President Donald Trump has yet to nominate a replacement. That’s left the commission unable to carry out enforcement duties or management deals like the one in Oklahoma. Industry leaders say the vacancy risks delaying business deals and weakening oversight. It also deprives tribes of a key advocate as prediction markets threaten to encroach on the $46 billion tribal gambling industry.
New Berkshire Hathaway CEO spends chunk of company’s massive cash pile Omaha, Neb. Berkshire Hathaway’s new CEO Greg Abel has invested $10 billion in Google’s parent company and repurchased about $4.5 billion of its shares. The conglomerate that legendary investor Warren Buffett built reported its second-quarter earnings Saturday morning and disclosed that its cash holdings had shrunk more than $30 billion to $365.5 billion. Abel announced in March that Berkshire had resumed buying back its own shares for the first time in more than two years, but investors were underwhelmed with the buybacks in the first quarter.
Mercedes AMG drivers file class action lawsuit over alleged burn hazard New York Two drivers of Mercedes AMG cars have filed a class action lawsuit against the luxury car company, saying that the AMG logo on their driver’s seat gets so hot that it literally brands them and causes burns. A court document filed in California says plaintiffs Gabriel Lahijani and Karendeep “Karina” Bath allege the front seats of certain Mercedes AMG vehicles have a design defect where the raised metallic AMG logo can be expected to touch a person’s upper back, neck or shoulder. The plaintiffs want Mercedes to compensate them for medical and other costs.
A8
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Jones & Blount
Murphy to Manteo
2 election-related bills head to Stein
Blockbuster summer North Carolina moviegoers are flocking to IMAX theaters this summer, turning major releases into full-scale cinematic events. From Charlotte and Raleigh to Wilmington and the Triad, audiences are paying a premium for bigger screens, immersive sound and the chance to experience Hollywood blockbusters as filmmakers intended. The excitement has been especially strong around Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey,” which was shot entirely with IMAX film cameras and generated a record $52 million worldwide IMAX opening. The demand reflects a broader resurgence in premium moviegoing. IMAX reported its best-ever month in July, with $257 million in ticket sales worldwide, while premium formats accounted for a growing share of blockbuster revenue. The IMAX release of “The Odyssey” was promoted as an event, with theaters offering limited-edition 70mm film-strip collectibles, sweepstakes for prizes — including a trip to Greece — and other incentives for IMAX moviegoers. For many movie fans, IMAX is no longer simply a larger screen — it is an experience worth planning around, traveling for and paying extra to see.
3
4
One piece of legislation makes administration fixes, while the other adjusts early voting, audits and more
5
By A.P. Dillon North State Journal
6 1 2
IMAX locations in NC 1.
Hendersonville: Epic Theatres of Hendersonville with IMAX
2.
Charlotte • Discovery Place Science • Accenture IMAX Dome Theatre • Regal Stonecrest at Piper Glen • AMC Northlake 14 & IMAX Winston-Salem: The Grand Winston-Salem 18 & IMAX
3.
4.
High Point: Regal Palladium
5.
Triangle area • Durham: AMC Southpoint 17 & IMAX • Cary: Regal Crossroads • Raleigh: Marbles Kids Museum – IMAX Theatre
6.
Greenville: Greenville Grande & IMAX
7.
Wilmington: Regal Mayfaire
7
WEST
PIEDMONT
EAST
County holds free splash day for community as lone pool remains closed
Man arrested after viral road rage video
County EMS director dies in drowning accident
Guilford County A High Point man has been charged after a viral Facebook video showed him screaming at a woman while driving on Interstate 85 in Greensboro on July 31. Christopher John Walters, 48, is charged with misdemeanor communicating threats to a woman. He’s seen in the viral video telling the woman recording she “could die” and that he “will kill her.” Walters was already in jail for allegedly assaulting a female at the time of the most recent charges.
Nash County Nash County officials are mourning the loss of Emergency Medical Services Director Dale Griffin after authorities say he drowned in Carteret County near Shackleford Banks. According to reports, emergency crews arrived on scene and immediately began resuscitation protocol, but despite their efforts, Griffin was pronounced dead a short time later. Based on the preliminary investigation, Carteret County deputies said there is no indication of foul play and the death appears to have been an accidental drowning.
Henderson County The City of Hendersonville helped give the community a break from the heat with a free splash day at Sullivan Park. The area was transformed into a Splash Zone with spraying fire trucks and other water activities this past weekend. Damage from 2024’s Helene forced the closure of the only pool that operated in the county, owned and funded by Hendersonville. It’s located at Patton Park off State Road 25 about two miles north of downtown Hendersonville.
Blue Ridge Pickleball event this week in downtown Asheville
McDowell County McDowell County Sheriff’s Office posted on social media Monday that it has appointed Nathan Mace, who served for several years as the county’s deputy sheriff under Sheriff Ricky T. Buchanan, as its interim sheriff. Mace will serve the rest of Buchanan’s term, according to the elections office. Buchanan announced earlier this year that he would not seek reelection, announcing his retirement. His official last day was Aug. 1, according to the sheriff’s office.
Buncombe County Downtown Asheville is gearing up for a major sports gathering as Blue Ridge Pickleball takes over Harrah’s Cherokee Center in Asheville from Aug. 12-16. The five-day event offers something for players of all ages and skill levels, featuring introductory clinics, open play sessions, tournaments and community activities. The main arena floor — which has previously hosted high-profile tennis events like the Billie Jean King Cup and Andy Roddick’s Stars Serving Up Love — will be transformed into six temporary indoor pickleball courts. Attendees and participants must enter the venue through the Flint Street Entrance, located between Harrah’s Cherokee Center and the Basilica of St. Lawrence near the intersection of Flint and Hiawassee streets. The community event is made possible through a collaboration between several local organizations, including the Asheville Buncombe Regional Sports Commission, Asheville Pickleball Association, Harrah’s Cherokee Center, BallCrank Pickleball Club and Asheville Parks and Recreation, according to organizers.
NSJ
WNC NEWS
WLOS
Mace sworn in as new interim sheriff
A9
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
NSJ
Sheriff apologizes to family in missing teen case Davidson County A local sheriff’s office issued an apology to the family of a teen who was missing for eight months before being found by an independent dive team. The body of Nick Allen, 17, was found inside a vehicle in the Yadkin River earlier this month. This came after the family got in touch with independent dive team Adventures with Purpose after frustrations with official recovery efforts at the time of the incident. The apology addressed an officer’s behavior toward the dive team and family that was “not up to expectations.” WGHP
County votes down proposed data center Forsyth County Forsyth County commissioners voted last week to reject a rezoning request for a proposed AI data center in Rural Hall, ending a monthslong fight that drew hundreds of residents to public meetings. Commissioners voted 5-2 against the project, according to a livestream of the meeting. A Charlotte-based developer had sought to rezone roughly 128 acres across from Rural Hall to build a fourbuilding data center complex. The proposal moved through months of public review, starting with a planning meeting in March, a packed Rural Hall town hall in April where more than 100 residents spoke out against it, and a Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Planning Board hearing in June that drew dozens more speakers. Throughout the process, residents raised concerns about noise, light pollution, environmental impact, construction traffic, and the potential disturbance of historically or culturally significant land near the site. Some speculated the property could contain Native American artifacts or burial grounds. WFMY
WCTI
Student-constructed homes aim to aid affordable housing Pitt County A home that was constructed as part of the City of Greenville’s 50-in-10 Affordable Housing Initiative was relocated to West Greenville last week. The 50-in-10 Affordable Housing Initiative is a long-term strategy that plans to deliver 50 affordable housing units throughout the West Greenville area over the next 10 years. The first homes in the initiative have been built by students from Pitt Community College’s Construction and Industrial Technology Division, offering hands-on experience and workforce development while serving the community. WNCT
SUBSCRIBE TODAY
nsjonline.com
Community mourns N.C.’s longest-serving police officer Onslow County James “XY” Brown, a longtime Jacksonville police officer whose career spanned nearly seven decades, has died. Brown retired from the Jacksonville Police Department in December 2025 at 98 years old after 68 years of service, making him the department’s longest-serving officer and believed to be the longest-serving police officer in North Carolina. Brown was widely known in Jacksonville as “Officer XY.” He spent years serving as a crossing guard at Northwoods Elementary School, where he helped protect generations of students. His service extended beyond his career with Jacksonville police. Brown previously served in the U.S. Army during World War II and later worked in civil service at Camp Lejeune. Earlier this year, Brown was also honored with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, one of North Carolina’s highest civilian honors, recognizing his decades of public service. Town officials said Brown’s commitment to protecting others and his kindness toward people in need would be remembered throughout the community. NSJ
RALEIGH — North Carolina lawmakers approved two bills making changes to the state’s election rules, sending both to Democratic Gov. Josh Stein for his signature or veto. The bills were passed as the legislature approved its adjournment resolution and wrapped up business last week with leadership in both chambers signaling no additional major votes such as veto overrides were expected until after the midterm elections in November. One measure, House Bill 834, focuses mainly on administrative fixes that drew broad support. The other, House Bill 958, includes more significant shifts in early voting, audits and reporting rules. House Bill 834 passed the House with bipartisan support from 11 Democrats. House Bill 958, which had stalled earlier this session and was dealt with through a conference committee, was approved by the House along party lines. “North Carolinians want elections they can trust, and House Republicans have consistently advanced practical reforms to improve election integrity,” House Election Law Chair Hugh Blackwell (R-Burke) said in a statement. “These bills build on that work by making our elections even more secure and giving voters even more confidence when they head to the polls.” House Bill 958 makes a series of adjustments to how elections are run and how campaign money is reported. One of the most noticeable changes shortens the early voting period for primary elections, second primaries and runoff elections from 17 days to 10 days. Early voting for general elections stays the same. Supporters say the shorter window still gives voters plenty of time while reducing costs for county election offices. Critics argue it makes it harder for some working people and rural voters to cast ballots. The bill also directs the state auditor to conduct postelection audits of election systems and controls after each general election. Counties would be selected randomly, and the audits would look for problems in how elections are administered. Results would be made public but can’t be used to overturn certified election outcomes. Another provision would keep candidates from party switching too close to an election by requiring a candidate be registered with that party for at least a year rather than the current 90 days, unless the party’s state executive committee grants them a waiver. Other provisions tighten voter list maintenance. The N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles (NCDMV) would be required to share Social Security numbers with the State Board of Elections on a regular schedule, an issue that the NCDMV has dragged its feet on over the past year. Election officials are directed to use federal data more quickly to remove deceased voters from the rolls, and registration applications would require individuals to clearly state they are U.S. citizens before processing continues. On campaign finance, the bill raises several reporting thresholds. Local candidates for county, municipal, school board and certain other offices could raise and spend up to $5,000 without filing detailed contribution and spending reports, up from the current $1,000 limit. The threshold for independent expenditures would rise from $100 to $1,000. The trigger for 48-hour reports of large late contributions would move from $1,000 to $2,000, with future automatic adjustments for inflation. Small contributions under $100 would no longer require the donor’s name, address and occupation to be listed. House Bill 834 takes a narrower approach focused on practical election procedures and seeks to codify some of the State Board of Elections’ recent rule changes to the counting and curing of certain absentee and provisional ballots. Under the bill, voters get more time to fix issues with ballots or IDs, with deadlines moving from the third business day after an election to the fifth business day. County boards would still need to promptly notify voters of curable problems. The bill also sets clearer rules for when counties may begin counting early voting and mail-in absentee ballots in the lead up to and an election day. Under the bill, it’s a Class I felony to reveal the result of any count of ballots before the polls close on election day. People challenging decisions by the State Board of Elections (NCSBE) can file lawsuits either in Wake County, where the NCSBE is located, or in the Superior Court of the county where they live. The bill also clarifies that if a ballot of anyone dies before an election day is challenged and the challenge is upheld, that ballot can’t be counted. This became an issue in Wake County when certain members of its board allowed votes from three deceased individuals to count during the 2024 election but threw out 42 others. Wake County Board of Elections members Greg Flynn and Gerry Cohen were censured in June by the NCSBE over the matter. The two were accused of ignoring NCSBE Numbered Memorandum 2022-05, requiring county election boards to remove early or absentee ballots cast by voters who die before an election day. Cohen has since resigned. Stein has 10 business days to sign, veto or let the bills become law without his signature. He had already signaled he is likely to veto House Bill 958 and issued a new statement Aug. 4 reiterating he believes the bill “makes it harder for you to vote” and accusing it of inviting “sore losers to try to overturn an election they lost.” Stein’s statement also noted the bill passed down partisan lines and called on Democrats to “uphold the veto.” The governor previously attacked election officials in midJune over the bill, stating it “invites the Auditor and State Board to sow mistrust in elections.” State Auditor Dave Boliek was given authority over the NCSBE by the legislature last session. Stein doubled down at the North Carolina Democratic Party’s annual Unity Dinner on Aug. 1, claiming Boliek and the NCSBE were able to “steal an election.”
10
Days in early voting for primary elections, second primaries and runoff elections, down from 17 days
A10
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
NATION & WORLD
USDA announces eligibility for free, reduced-price student meals Wake County increased school meal prices by 25 cents for the fifth consecutive year By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal RALEIGH — The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the 2026-27 federal income eligibility guidelines for free and reduced-price meals for children in North Carolina schools. Household size and income criteria will be used to determine student eligibility for free and reduced-price meal benefits. “Educational excellence isn’t achieved through engaging and rigorous classrooms alone,” North Carolina Superintendent of Public Instruction Mo Green said in a press release. “Healthy and nutritious meals are essential to ensuring students are focused and ready to learn. When students eat school meals, they have improved focus and academic success.” The guidelines apply for the period of July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. A child’s household must earn at or below 185% of the federal poverty level, or $5,088 each month for a family of four, to qualify for reduced-price meals. If a child’s household earns at or below 130% of the federal poverty level, or $3,575 each month for a family of four, they will qualify for free school meals. Under last year’s rates, from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, a family of four had to earn $3,483 monthly to be eligible for free meals. For reduced-price meals, a family of four had to earn $4,957 monthly. Children who are members of households eligible for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits or Cash Assistance (CA) are automatically eligible for free meals. Families receiving SNAP and
Washington, D.C. Former Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall on Monday said he’ll sue to force the Trump administration to restore his security clearance, which it revoked Friday after claiming he had disclosed sensitive information about the Qatari-gifted jet now serving as Air Force One. Kendall, a West Point graduate who served as President Joe Biden’s head of the Air Force, said on CNN that he’ll sue the administration, noting it has a history of retaliating against critics by stripping their clearances.
Deadline to replace Miller on Ohio ballot passes SUSAN MONTOYA BRYAN / AP PHOTO
The federal government announced eligibility for free and reduced-price meals for the upcoming school year. CA benefits do not need to complete an application because a determining official automatically certifies them. Foster children who are the legal responsibility of a social services agency or court are eligible for free meals regardless of the income of the household in which they reside. Applications for free and reduced-price school meals are available in each school in North Carolina. An adult household member must sign the application and include the names of all household members, amount and source of income received by each member, and the last four digits of the Social Security number of the member who signed the application. Students who qualify for reduced-price school meals will receive them for free, as state funding covers the remaining copays for both breakfast and lunch.
The state’s largest district raised prices on meals again this past June. The Wake County Board of Education voted to increase school meal prices by 25 cents for the fifth consecutive year. Reasons for the hikes pointed to climbing costs for food ingredients, shipping logistics and staff operations. Wake County Schools’ price increases affect the following meals: • Elementary breakfast rises to $2.25 • Middle and high school breakfast rises to $2.50 • Elementary lunch rises to $4 • Middle and high school lunch rises to $4.25
Prices in neighboring states vary depending on the county. In Tennessee, student lunches range from $2.25 to $4, while breakfasts are $1 to $3. In
“Healthy and nutritious meals are essential to ensuring students are focused and ready to learn.” Mo Green, North Carolina superintendent of Public Instruction
South Carolina, student lunches range from $3 to $3.75, and breakfasts range from $1.85 to $3. In Virginia, student lunches range from $2.95 to $4, and breakfasts range from $1.50 to $2.50. In all three states, students can qualify for free and reduced-price school meals through the National School Lunch Program based on household size and income.
Columbus, Ohio Embattled Republican Rep. Max Miller is staying in the race for his Ohio congressional district, defying voices within his own party who urged him to step aside as he faced domestic abuse allegations from his ex-wife. His determination to press on with his reelection campaign is creating headaches for a Republican Party that had not planned to devote attention to defending the seat in this year’s midterm elections. His Democratic challenger, union ironworker Brian Poindexter, seized on Miller’s controversies by appealing to voters with a promise to “serve with honor.” Monday presented the last chance for Republicans to replace Miller on the general election ballot in Ohio.
Congo reaches 2,000 deaths in Ebola outbreak Bunia, Congo At least 2,000 people have died among the confirmed cases in Congo’s Ebola outbreak that is the fastest growing on record, according to the latest government data. Data published overnight into Tuesday showed the outbreak has recorded a total of 4,381 confirmed cases, including 2,011 deaths. More than 700 patients are in admission and isolation. The grim toll comes nearly three months since the outbreak was declared on May 15. While it took about nine weeks for the outbreak to record 1,000 deaths, it’s taken just about three weeks to record the additional 1,000 deaths.
DUKE from page A1 and denying admission on the basis of race,” Dhillon wrote. The department says Duke Law School used “diversity” essay questions on the school’s mission, and admissions reviewers were directed to tag applicants by race-correlated traits. It was also noted the school had revised its mission statement to express its goal to “help build and sustain a dynamic legal profession that embodies a commitment” to values including equal justice, public service and a “diversity of perspective and experience.” To capture answers related to “diversity of perspective and experience,” reviewers used the “Diversity/Services” tag. Reviewers were also told to use tags for specific applicant characteristics commonly correlated with race, such as being a Pell grant recipient. The department also claims that while Duke Law’s published policies state admissions reviewers don’t see racial demographic data, the school directed staff to highlight applicant information that could advance its racial diversity goals. Findings also stated that in 2024 and 2025, the median LSAT scores of rejected white and Asian applicants exceeded the median LSAT scores of admitted black applicants. As a result, a black or Hispanic applicant had a substantially higher likelihood of admission to Duke Law than a white or Asian applicant with the same academic credentials. “Based on our review of the 2025 applicant-level data, Duke Law’s use of race gave a black applicant a roughly 3.5x higher probability of admission than
Former Air Force secretary plans to sue Trump administration
GERRY BROOME / AP PHOTO
Duke University School of Law is being accused by the U.S. Department of Justice of intentionally discriminating based on race in its admissions. an equally strong Asian applicant with similar academic credentials,” Dhillon’s letter to Berger reads. As recipients of federal financial assistance, law schools are subject to federal nondiscrimination laws. The release says the department will continue to monitor and ensure compliance with Title VI and the Supreme Court’s prohibition on race-conscious admissions. Where violations are found, the department says it will enter settlement negotiations to bring admissions practices into compliance, and if those efforts fail, the department will file suit. Duke Law School issued the following statement to North State Journal: “Today, the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division
“Duke Law School doesn’t get a free pass to discriminate against white and Asian students simply because it thinks it has good intentions.” Harmeet K. Dhillon, assistant attorney general issued a letter of findings related to Duke Law’s admissions practices. We are reviewing the letter and its conclusions carefully. Duke is committed to complying with the law and will continue to do so in a manner that is consistent with our academic mission.” Last August, the U.S. De-
partment of Education and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services jointly announced Duke University, Duke Law Journal and Duke University School of Medicine were the subjects of investigations over alleged racial discrimination violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act. Earlier, in March 2025, Duke University was among the 45 schools named as under investigation for Title IX violations by the U.S. Department of Education. The schools were on this list for allegedly using “race-exclusionary practices” in their graduate programs. An additional seven schools were named as being under investigation for “alleged impermissible race-based scholarships and race-based segregation.”
British Columbia wildfires kill 1, displace thousands Toronto Canada put its military on standby Monday to help battle deadly wildfires in British Columbia as a local mayor warned that one of the blazes had wreaked destruction on his community. A woman died and some 20,000 people have fled their homes. For days, scores of wildfires have burned across the province, nearly half of them out of control in hot, windy weather and prolonged drought. Thousands have fled on jammed roads as officials said even more communities could be threatened. The blaze, known as the Bald Range wildfire, remained out of control after spreading to other communities over the weekend.
A11
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
features
Earl Scruggs Music Festival brings bluegrass home for fifth year The Avett Brothers, Béla Fleck and Greensky Bluegrass will headline By Dan Reeves North State Journal MILL SPRING — Five years in, the Earl Scruggs Music Festival has grown into a major North Carolina weekend for bluegrass and roots music, but its focus remains tied to the musician whose name is on the bill. The festival returns Sept. 4-6 to Tryon International Equestrian Center in Mill Spring with The Avett Brothers, Greensky Bluegrass, The Del McCoury Band and Béla Fleck’s “My Bluegrass Heart” leading a lineup that stretches from traditional bluegrass to Americana and jamgrass. The Avett Brothers will close the festival Sunday. Greensky Bluegrass and The Del McCoury Band headline Saturday, while Fleck and The Earls of Leicester with Jerry Douglas lead Friday’s lineup. Alison Brown, another Grammy-winning banjo player whose career has crossed bluegrass, jazz and folk, is the festival’s 2026 artist-in-residence. Also scheduled are Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, Mountain Grass Unit, Lindsay Lou, Della Mae, Rissi Palmer, East Nash Grass, Special Consensus, Laurie Lewis & The Right Hands and a long list of regional and emerging acts. The range fits a festival built around Earl Scruggs, whose approach to the five-string banjo helped establish the sound most listeners now associate with bluegrass. Scruggs was born in 1924 in the Flint Hill community of Cleveland County and started playing his father’s banjo as a child. By age 10, he was developing the three-finger style that would become known as “Scruggs style,” using rolls and syncopation to move the banjo beyond a supporting rhythm instrument.
CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO
Bela Fleck performs “Rhapsody in Blue” during the 67th annual Grammy Awards in 2025 in Los Angeles. The virtuoso banjoist is among the headliners billed at Earl Scruggs Music Festival 2026.
“I pretty well lived and breathed the banjo all the way.” Earl Scruggs
JOE GIBLIN / AP PHOTO
The late Earl Scruggs performs at the Newport Folk Festival in Newport, Rhode Island, in 2011. “I pretty well lived and breathed the banjo all the way,” Scruggs once said, according to the Earl Scruggs Center in Shelby. In 1945, Scruggs joined
Bill Monroe’s band, where his playing quickly became central to the emerging bluegrass sound. He later formed Flatt & Scruggs with guitarist Lester Flatt. Their recordings included
“Foggy Mountain Breakdown,” one of bluegrass music’s most recognizable instrumentals, and “The Ballad of Jed Clampett,” the theme to “The Beverly Hillbillies.” Scruggs was also willing to move beyond the traditional boundaries of the genre. After Flatt & Scruggs split in 1969, he formed the Earl Scruggs Revue with his sons and mixed bluegrass with rock, country and other influences. Over the years, he worked with artists including Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and Elton John. That same idea — preserv-
ing the foundation while allowing the music to move — runs through this year’s festival. Fleck is perhaps the clearest example. His career has taken the banjo into jazz, classical music, world music and other settings, but “My Bluegrass Heart” marked a return to the music that first shaped him. The project won the Grammy Award for best bluegrass album in 2022. The Avett Brothers offer another North Carolina connection. Brothers Scott and Seth Avett were raised in Concord, where both began playing music before eventually forming the band that carries their name. This year will also bring more attention to another important part of Scruggs’ story. The festival is introducing the Louise Scruggs Stage, named for Earl’s wife and longtime manager. Louise began booking and managing Flatt & Scruggs in the mid-1950s and became the first woman in country music to take on those roles, according to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum. She guided her husband’s career for decades and helped take the music to audiences beyond the traditional country market. The stage arrives as the festival enters its fifth year with some momentum of its own. The International Bluegrass Music Association named Earl Scruggs Music Festival its 2025 Event of the Year. The festival’s history already includes performances from Alison Krauss & Union Station, Emmylou Harris, Tanya Tucker, Old Crow Medicine Show, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Molly Tuttle, Sierra Hull and Sam Bush since its debut in 2022. But the weekend remains more than a collection of headliners. Workshops, performances from Junior Appalachian Musicians and the festival’s Battle of the Banjos competition keep some of the emphasis on musicianship and the next generation of players. This year’s Battle of the Banjos winner, Kentucky’s Blue Bridge Boys, earned two festival performance slots. More than a century after his birth in Cleveland County, the style Earl Scruggs helped create remains a starting point for musicians still figuring out where five strings can go next.
‘One Night Only’ struggles to balance raunch, romance The charming rom-com can’t make its wild premise work By Bob Garver The Sun IT TAKES a very generous suspension of disbelief to enjoy “One Night Only.” The film is set in a not-too-distant future where premarital sex is outlawed, save for one night a year. Comparisons to “The Purge” are inevitable, which to me raises an interesting question: Which would lead to more violent crime in this country — one night of legalized violent crime or gradually building sexual frustration on all but one night? Never mind that such laws would never in a million years be passed, enforced or obeyed. The characters in this film — which takes place in a fully recognizable New York City and not some bleak dystopian fantasy world — accept that the law is set in stone and occasionally complain about it, but we never see any serious resistance. That’s a big strike against the film right off the bat — it’s hard to identify with anyone in this world because everybody is inherently ridiculous enough to go along with this law. To be fair, this film is not about the 364 days a year when this law wouldn’t work, it’s about the one upside — the lone night when all the single people are allowed to go crazy. And go crazy they do, with almost every shot in the movie showing people hooking up, at least in the
NICOLE RIVELLI / UNIVERSAL PICTURES VIA AP
Monica Barbaro stars in “One Night Only.” background. Of course, it’s all in a tame, R-rated way, with the naughtiest bits out of view of the camera. I shudder to think what this movie would have looked like if it took the X-rated approach, though that movie would have at least been memorable. As it is, I probably won’t forget the weird premise anytime soon, but I’ll probably have
forgotten the title of this movie by year’s end. The movie follows traditional rom-com characters Owen (Callum Turner) and Allie (Monica Barbaro). He’s a pizza cook who works too hard. She’s a singer who has stage fright. He has a girlfriend (Maya Hawke) who treats him badly and tells him he’s on his own for finding
a partner for tonight. She’s not that serious about finding someone. Both have friends and family who tell them that they need to lighten up and have some fun. They bump into each other a few times while on separate adventures, initially having animosity that turns into a rivalry before considering that maybe they should be together. Will they be-
come a couple, physically or otherwise? The good news is that Turner and Barbaro are sweet enough leads. I was digging their chemistry and interactions with one another. They’re basically having a PG-13 relationship while the world around them is super R-rated (though not as “hard R” as it probably wants to be). It’s all corny, in traditional rom-com fashion, but mildly engaging, especially when compared to what else the movie has to offer. The bad news about “One Night Only” is pretty much everything else about the movie. I can poke holes in the premise all day, but the real problem is that the film wants to be both raunchy and edgy, but it can only manage the former. Sex gags permeate the movie (let’s just say it’s really hard to procure protection at the last minute in this world), but they’re oddly toothless. Director Will Gluck previously made “Anyone But You,” an R-rated romantic comedy that I thought would have worked better without its cruder elements. This movie doesn’t work because it doesn’t have many cruder elements. Even though I champion the film’s cleaner moments, they would mean more if they were contrasted with dirty moments that were actually good at being dirty. Grade: C“One Night Only” is rated R for sexual material, language and brief nudity. Its running time is 102 minutes.
A12
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
STATEWIDE NOTICE State of Connecticut Court of Probate, Hartford Regional Children’s Probate Court NOTICE TO Michael Hammond, whose last known residence was in the state of North Carolina. Pursuant to an order of Hon. Richard P. Gentile, Judge, a hearing will be held at Hartford Regional Children’s Probate Court, 50 Chapman Place, Suite 109, East Hartford, CT 06108 on August 25, 2026 at 2:30 PM, on a petition for Termination of Parental Rights concerning Jeremiah H., a minor child born to Shangelly Carrion Cruz on May 24, 2011 at Hartford, CT. The court’s decision will affect your interest, if any, as in the petition on file more fully appears. RIGHT TO COUNSEL: If the above named person wishes to have an attorney, but is unable to pay for one, the Court will provide an attorney upon proof of inability to pay. Any such request should be made immediately by contacting the court office where the hearing is to be held. By Order of the Court Trish Camacho, Assistant Clerk
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 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 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 TO CREDITORS: Cumberland County, North Carolina RE: THE ESTATE OF JOHN BLOUNT – 26-E-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
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 TO CREDITORS IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 26E000875-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Melvin Andrew Bonner, late of Cumberland 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 2517 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28305, on or before November 13, 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. Dated this 13th day of August, 2026. Kimesha T. Bonner, Executor of the Estate of Melvin Andrew Bonner NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY & CORLEY, P.A. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR
NOTICE TO CREDITORS 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.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS:
NOTICE
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
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 In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File # 26E001248-250 State of North Carolina County of Cumberland Administrator’s Notice The undersigned, having qualified as administrator of the Estate of George Michael Fears Sr., 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 14th 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. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 13th day of August, 2026. George Michael Fears Jr. 218 Waverly Ave. Neptune, New Jersey 07753 Of the Estate of George Michael Fears Sr., Deceased Publish: 8/13/2026, 8/20/2026, 8/27/2026, 9/3/2026
NOTICE State of North Carolina In the General Court of Justice County of Cumberland. Superior Court Division Estate File # 26E000736-250 Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Carolyn Grady, 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 15th 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. All debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 4th day of August,2026 Rae Roberts 1004 Quailwood Dr Fayetteville NC, 28314 Of the Estate of Carolyn Grady
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
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
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 In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File #26E001242-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Margaret Y Myers, deceased, late of Cumberland County, does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to present them to the undersigned at 612 Williwood Road, Fayetteville, NC 28311 on or before the 13th 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. Dated this 10th day of August, 2026. Deborah R Godwin, Executor of the Estate of Margaret Y Myers 612 Williwood Road Fayetteville, NC 28311
NOTICE TO CREDITORS 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 TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF Michael John Keaveny Cumberland County Estate File No. 26E000587-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Michael John Keaveny, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Davis W. Puryear, Public Administrator, at 4317 Ramsey St., Fayetteville, NC 28311, on or before the 14th 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 Executor/Administrator named above. This the 5th day of August, 2026. Davis W. Puryear Public Administrator of the Estate of Michael John Keaveny Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: August 13, August 20, August 27 and September 3, 2026
ADMINISTRATOR’S NOTICE 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
NOTICE
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
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 26E001139-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Bill Pete Pappas, late of Cumberland 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 2517 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC 28305, on or before November 13, 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. Dated this 13th day of August, 2026. Maria Gibbons Pappas, Executor of the Estate of Bill Pete Pappas NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY & CORLEY, P.A. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR
NOTICE 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 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
A13
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
CUMBERLAND 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 TO CREDITORS 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
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 NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001204-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Angie Ilean Stephens, 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 13th 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 13th day of August 2026. Brenda Brown, Administrator for Angie Ilean Stephens Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 08/13, 08/20, 08/27, 09/03
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Nora Zook, deceased, late of Currituck County, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said, Nora Zook, to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 13th day of November, 2026 or this notice will be placed in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to said estate please make immediate notice to the undersigned. This, the 4th day of August, 2026 _______________________________ ________ Debbie L. Gardner 122 Dot Sears Drive Grandy, NC 27939
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
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.
Having qualified on July 28, 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Elizabeth Sharon McCreesh, deceased, late of New Hanover County, North Carolina, the undersigned hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate to present them to the undersigned at:
Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Sandra Hine of Randolph County, NC, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned Administrator at the Law Office of Andrew J. Weiner, 113 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203 on or before November 11th 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of heir recovery. All persons indebted to said estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 13th day of August 2026. Timothy Keith Duncan Sandra Hine Estate Andrew J Weiner, Attorney Gavin & Cox 113 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 Telephone: 336-629-2600
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
NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK Estate of: Celeste Kelliehan Case No.: 26E000977-640 Having qualified as Personal Representative of the Estate of Celeste Kelliehan, deceased, late of New Hanover County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate to present them to: Dejuria McIntyre 531 Conley Dr, Apt.410 Wilmington, NC 28401 on or before November 13, 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 13th day of August, 2026. Dejuria McIntyre Personal Representative
Kristina Castillo 1013 Shadow Moss Ct. Wilmington, NC 28412 All claims against the estate must be presented on or before November 13, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the estate should make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 13th day of August, 2026. Kristina Castillo Executor of the Estate of Elizabeth Sharon McCreesh Estate File No. 26 E 000946-640
RANDOLPH NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Charles L. Bulla a/k/a Charles Leslie Bulla, 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 November 13, 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 5th day of August, 2026 Michael Shane Dunn Executor of the Estate of Charles L. Bulla a/k/a Charles Leslie Bulla S. Scott Eggleston, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 8/13/26 8/20/26 8/27/26 9/3/26
Notice to Creditors STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS Case No. 26E000272-640 THE UNDERSIGNED, having qualified as the Administrator of the ESTATE OF Lynn Farmer Isbell, Deceased, of New Hanover County, North Carolina, do hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before November 13, 2026 or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 13th day of August, 2026. William Slate Thompson Administrator 721Dungannon Blvd Wilmington, NC 28403 The North State Journal August 13, 20, 27, September 3, 2026
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 (26E000847640), 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
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
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
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Dwight Franklin Hooker of Randolph County, NC, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned Executor at the Law Office of Andrew J. Weiner, 113 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203 on or before November 11th 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of heir recovery. All persons indebted to said estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 13th day of August 2026. Charles Edward Glasgow Dwight Franklin Hooker Estate Andrew J Weiner, Attorney Gavin & Cox 113 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 Telephone: 336-629-2600
NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Janice Johnson Yates of Randolph County, NC, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned Administrator at the Law Office of Richard L. Cox, 113 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203 on or before November 11th 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of heir recovery. All persons indebted to said estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 13th day of August 2026. Garland Nelson Yates Janice Johnson Yates Estate Richard L. Cox, Attorney Gavin & Cox 113 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 Telephone: 336-629-2600
NOTICE TO CREDITORS 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 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
Notice to Creditors
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.
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 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 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 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)
A14
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
PEN & PAPER PURSUITS
sudoku
SOLUTIONS FROM LAST WEEK
Johnston County wins softball World Series, B4
DAVID RICHARD / AP PHOTO
Carolina Panthers quarterback Haynes King dives into the end zone for the game-winning touchdown on the final play of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game.
the Thursday
Panthers rookies get chance to shine in Hall of Fame Game
NWSL
With most of the starters held out, youngsters were given an opportunity to impress
SIDELINE REPORT
Jacobs’ stoppage-time goal gives Courage 4-3 win over Spirit Washington, D.C. Natalie Jacobs scored late in stoppage time to give the visiting North Carolina Courage a 4-3 victory over the Washington Spirit. North Carolina (9-6-3) went ahead two minutes into the game on an Ashley Sanchez left-footed volley. Evelyn Ijeh scored in the ninth and 15th minutes. Washington rallied to tie, and in the 95th minute, Feli Rauch found Jacobs for the winner for the Courage. North Carolina has won three straight.
NCAA FOOTBALL
College Football Playoff adds App State AD Gillin to selection committee Irving, Texas Appalachian State athletics director Doug Gillin has been appointed to the College Football Playoff selection committee. CFP executive director Rich Clark named Gillin as the replacement for former Louisiana AD Bryan Maggard. Gillin has spent the last 12 years at App State. The CFP selection committee is responsible for ranking the top 25 teams and setting the field for the 12-team CFP.
NCAA BASKETBALL
Preliminary injunction allows Vanderbilt player Washington to land at Tennessee Former Vanderbilt basketball player Jalen Washington transferred to Tennessee. The move comes less than a week after a Colorado judge granted a preliminary injunction in a complaint where Washington was lead plaintiff, allowing student athletes who graduated in 2022 another season of eligibility. Washington played three seasons at UNC before transferring to Vanderbilt, where he averaged 8.9 points last season.
By Shawn Krest North State Journal THE CAROLINA Panthers started the preseason off on the right foot with a win in the Hall of Fame Game last Thursday in Canton, Ohio. Carolina played the Arizona Cardinals in the annual preseason opener to set the stage for the Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement, which was highlighted by Panthers linebacking great Luke Kuechly and legendary Cardinals receiver Larry Fitzgerald, who spent their entire careers with their respective teams. Third-string quarterback Haynes King, a rookie who won ACC Player of the Year
DAVID DERMER / AP PHOTO
Rookie cornerback Will Lee III, bottom, tackles Arizona Cardinals running back Bam Knight (20) during the Hall of Fame Game last Thursday in Canton, Ohio. at Georgia Tech last season, scored a touchdown as time expired to give the Panthers a 33-30 win in the highest-scoring Hall of Fame Game in
the 64-year history of the event. In keeping with the injury-plagued start to training camp, King injured his hamstring on the game-winning
quarterback keeper and is expected to miss time. The team signed Kyle Trask to replace him for the immediate future. With several key players, including pass rusher Nic Scourton and rookie receiver Chris Brazzell, suffering season-ending injuries and others going down with less serious injuries in the first few weeks of camp, the Panthers sat most of their starters for the game, giving a long look to the rookie draft class as well as players in position battles for depth spots. Here’s a look at what the Panthers put on film in Canton. The draft picks First-rounder Monroe Freeling, expected to start at a tackle spot on the offensive line, was held out along with the rest of the first-string offensive players. See PANTHERS, page B3
Brennan wins Wyndham Championship, qualifies for PGA Tour postseason The former Wake Forest golfer entered the week 35 spots away from a playoff spot The Associated Press GREENSBORO — Michael Brennan had another Sunday opportunity and delivered in a big way. He made five straight birdies to pull away from Beau Hossler and close with a 6-under 64 to win the Wyndham Championship and reach the PGA Tour’s lucrative postseason. Brennan came into the final tournament of the regular season at No. 105 in the FedEx Cup, a disappointing year with only one top 10. Now his season gets extended by at least one week — maybe longer based on how he’s playing — after his second PGA Tour title in two years. Brennan was one shot behind Hossler when he ran off
five straight birdies starting on the fourth hole, all of them inside 8 feet. That turned a deficit into a three-shot lead at the turn when Hossler took a bogey on the ninth hole. Then it was a matter of hanging on for the 24-year-old Brennan, a Virginia native who played his college golf about 30 miles away at Wake Forest. “I don’t want to be done playing golf,” Brennan said. “Unfortunately, I’ve had a couple of tough Sundays. Outside of that, I had been playing really solid. This is my sixth week in a row. I’m perfectly happy running on fumes next week.” The FedEx Cup playoffs start Thursday with the FedEx St. Jude Championship at the TPC Southwind in Memphis, Tennessee. Only the top 70 players advance, and Brennan shot up to No. 47. Jackson Koivun, who left Auburn in June and won the
CHUCK BURTON / AP PHOTO
Michael Brennan reacts after winning the Wyndham Championship on Sunday in Greensboro. 3M Open in only his third start, narrowly hung on to the 70th spot and goes from college to the postseason in only two months. See BRENNAN, page B4
“I don’t want to be done playing golf.” Michael Brennan
B2 THURSDAY
8.13.26
TRENDING
Darrion Williams: The former NC State forward signed with Texas Tech to play a fifth season of college basketball. The 6-foot-6 Williams returns to Lubbock, where he played from 2023-25 before leading the Wolfpack in scoring last season. He became eligible for a fifth season after a judge ruled that all players in the high school class of 2022 who exhausted their eligibility are eligible for a fifth season this school year. Brian Battle: The Charlotte native and winner of the 29th season of “The Ultimate Fighter” got a split-decision win over No. 4-ranked Dalton Rosta in the main event of PFL Charlotte. Battle improved to 13-3. Indian Trail native Jonathan Martin, Battle’s teammate at Carolina Combat Sports & Fitness, won a unanimous decision on the undercard to improve to 9-3. Enes Kanter Freedom: The six-year NBA player was one of two former NBA players to declare for the WNBA Draft. Freedom, who played until 2021, claimed he now identifies as a woman, highlighting vagueness in WNBA rules regarding transgender players. Later in the day, Royce White, a first-round pick now running for Senate in Minnesota, also declared.
North State Journal for Thursday, Aug. 13, 2026
Beyond the box score POTENT QUOTABLES
NASCAR
Ty Gibbs held off teammate Christopher Bell over the final 20 laps to win Sunday’s Cup Series race at Iowa Speedway. Gibbs won by 0.253 seconds for his second career victory. Gibbs and Bell each pitted with 60 laps remaining, but while Bell took four tires, Gibbs just went with two, coming out ahead. And when leader Ross Chastain pitted on Lap 330, Gibbs took over the top spot.
PAUL BEATY / AP PHOTO
“This is gonna be crazy — Babe Ruth never existed.” Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong when asked what conspiracy theories he believed on a recent podcast interview.
CHARLIE NEIBERGALL / AP PHOTO
NCAA BASKETBALL
MLB
SCOTT KINSER / AP PHOTO
“They love you when they love you, they don’t when they don’t.” Panthers receiver Xavier Legette on fans.
AP PHOTO
Cozell McQueen (45), a member of the 1983 National Champion NC State Wolfpack, died at 64. The 6-foot-11 McQueen played for State from 1981 to 1985. He had a career-high 13 rebounds against Georgia to send State to the 1983 title game, where had 12 boards and defended Hakeem Olajuwon.
JASON BEHNKEN / AP PHOTO
Former Durham Bull Alex Cook pitched two scoreless innings in his first MLB game, becoming the 200th player to debut with Tampa Bay. He then rode home with teammate Chandler Simpson, another former Bull. When Simpson hit a pothole and got a flat, Cook changed the tire for him.
PRIME NUMBER
7 Consecutive losses by the Los Angeles Dodgers, who went an entire week before winning their first game after trading for two-time Cy Young Award winner Tarik Skubal. The Dodgers traded for the biggest name on the market before the trade deadline, then endured their longest skid in more than a year.
NCAA FOOTBALL
BEN MCKEOWN / AP PHOTO
UNC defensive coordinator Steve Belichick is on medical leave. Head coach Bill Belichick announced his son’s absence during the second week of preseason camp. Belichick offered no details but said the team hoped to have him back “as soon as possible.” He also said the defensive staff already works collectively when asked how the team would adjust to the absence.
B3
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Lopez gets fresh start at Wake Forest in reunion with former offensive coordinator The former UNC quarterback is back in his comfort zone after a rough year By Aaron Beard The Associated Press WINSTON-SALEM — Gio Lopez has found comfort with the familiar, even in a new place. The left-handed quarterback has moved on from the spotlight of NFL coaching great Bill Belichick’s first college season at UNC. He’s at Wake Forest now, another in-state Atlantic Coast Conference school that, unlike Lopez’s Tar Heels, had a successful debut season under its new coach Jake Dickert. And Lopez knows exactly what to expect with offensive coordinator Rob Ezell, who helped him thrive before at South Alabama. “It gives me a lot of comfort, also just being with him in the spring,” Lopez said during the first week of the Demon Deacons’ preseason camp. “I didn’t get to experience the spring last year. So just being back with him, being comfortable with Coach Ezell, knowing him since I was 16 years old. So he’s known me like the back of his hand. “So I just trust his play calls. I never really question his judg-
ment. Just able to go out there with full-blown trust and belief in him.” Lopez’s transfer feels a lot farther than the 85 miles that separate the Wake Forest and UNC campuses. A year ago, he was jumping into preseason camp at UNC as Belichick — who led the New England Patriots to six Super Bowl titles — prepared for a closely watched transition to college. Lopez hadn’t committed to UNC until after spring practices, so every camp snap marked his first live work there. He won the starting job and had a 39-yard deep ball on his first throw during a season-opening touchdown drive, but things went badly from there. UNC lost in a blowout in what became a messy 4-8 season that ended with Lopez needing surgery for a left-leg fracture suffered in the season finale at NC State. The vibes are different at Wake Forest. He joins an elite private school with the smallest undergraduate enrollment of any power conference program, led by a coach who climbed through college football’s lower ranks to get here. Yet Dickert’s first team surprised by going 9-4 in a season that included shutting down Lopez and UNC before beating a Southeastern Conference opponent (Mississippi State) in a
bowl game. That offense leaned more on the run game to adapt to the strengths of NFL-bound back Demond Claiborne and the offensive line, but the plan is to shift closer to Ezell’s preferred approach in Year 2. Lopez arrived knowing that scheme well. Now he’s busy scrambling around with a green No. 3 jersey and sporting the team’s black helmet with gold WF lettering, battling a defense expected to be a strength again. Monday’s first official practice included some turnovers and miscues against that unit, but Lopez might be better equipped to push through setbacks after his UNC stint. “He’s used the term with me: ‘I’ve never failed that loud be-
Brown said taekwondo strengthened her legs and helped with running and jumping challenges, including the broad jump. She was especially looking forward to the flexed-arm hang and said the scholarship prize added another layer of motivation — the male and female champions are each
lieve either of them on a rotation. Fourth-round corner Will Lee III out of Texas A&M also got a start and had a good all-around game with one glaring exception. He logged 19 defensive snaps and two on special teams. On the second play of the game, he crashed a run play to tackle the back close to the line. He also had tight coverage and made a leaping pass breakup on third down the first time he was targeted by the Arizona quarterback. On his second drive, he bit on a double move, surrendering a 35-yard gain to set up the Cardinals’ first touchdown. He recovered though and played error-free the rest of the way, making a nice rolling tackle on a tight end reception, then holding his ground and stopping a receiver in his tracks
just short of the first-down line. The lone offensive draftee to play was center Sam Hecht of Kansas State, who also started and had 38 offensive snaps and two special teams plays. He struggled in the early going, allowing a sack on third-and-1 on the first drive where the defender went past him unblocked. I wasn’t clear who was responsible for the miscommunication, but it didn’t look good. On the second drive, he got knocked to the ground and nearly gave up a safety on a snap from the Panthers 3. He got bowled over again on a third-down play on that drive. He tightened up after that and got a good push on run plays and didn’t give up, at one point showing up as a running back got tackled 13 yards down the field.
There was only one snap where the quarterback had to reach or jump to get the ball, so that part of his game was relatively clean. Fellow fifth-rounder Zakee Wheatley, a safety from Penn State, was the fourth member of the class to start. He crashed the line hard for a tackle on the first play of the game. He showed an ability to get in on run plays and make a hit, although he didn’t always bring down the running back. He had 35 defensive snaps and five special teams. Seventh-round linebacker Jackson Kuwatch of Miami (Ohio) had the most playing time of the class, logging 39 snaps on D and 10 special teams. He was on the first-team punt squad and got in on a tackle on the first punt of the game. When he entered on
By Jesse Deal North State Journal
Brazzell, a third-rounder, was also out after being placed on injured reserve. Lee Hunter, a second-round defensive tackle out of Texas Tech, was the highest-drafted rookie to suit up for the Panthers. He got the start on the D-line and played the first half, logging 20 snaps on defense and three on special teams. He faced double teams on a good number of his plays and showed a good burst off the ball, allowing him to split blockers and apply pressure up the middle. He had an ability to move the linemen blocking him and looks like he’ll be a reliable option to team with Bobby Brown III and Derrick Brown or re-
defense, he showed a very fast burst and outstanding speed. He blitzed on his first play and got in untouched to pressure the passer. He had good lateral movement to follow running plays, although he got pushed around a bit early in the game. On one third-quarter tackle, he got pushed back three yards by the running back and nearly lost his helmet before finally getting him down. He was better at holding position and getting off blocks by the fourth quarter, when fewer future NFLers were in the game for Arizona. Nondraftees fighting for spots who had good showings included receiver candidates Jimmy Horn Jr., John Metchie III and Ja’seem Reid, and defensive back Corey Thornton.
Brown said. “That is when I found taekwondo, which is a martial art, and that completely transformed my life.” Brown has practiced taekwondo for about two years and hopes to earn her black belt in November. When applications for the Patriot Games opened, she tried to make an immediate impression. “I wanted to get the people’s attention, so I started off the video with a tornado kick,” Brown said. Her martial arts training also became part of her preparation for events outside her usual discipline.
set to receive $125,000 in college scholarship money. “It’s an honor,” Brown said. “I am really blessed to be able to do this.” She said winning would be “life-changing,” particularly because the scholarship money could ease the financial burden on her parents, both teachers, as she looks ahead to college. Brennan entered the competition from a different background. Born and raised on Long Island, New York, before moving to North Carolina, he is a rising junior at Cuthbertson High School in Waxhaw and plays center back and outside back. “I play soccer. I referee soccer,” Brennan said. “And if I’m not doing either of those, I’m probably watching soccer.” Brennan first heard about the Patriot Games when the event was announced but initially dismissed the possibility that he would be chosen. Months later, he saw an application and decided there was little reason not to try. “I can’t get any more not accepted than I am right now,” Brennan recalled thinking. He advanced through multiple stages of the selection process, beginning with a video and later submitting an essay. When he learned he had made the final group, Brennan said he was “ecstatic.” He believes leadership experience helped his application. Brennan said he runs his school’s Turning Point chapter, has captained his soccer team and helped organize baby supply drives and community outreach. “I think they were looking for leaders, and that’s who I am,” he said. “It’s a blessing for me to get to represent North Carolina.”
Seylah Brown and Chris Brennan represent the state in the national athletic competition
PANTHERS from page B1
He documented his training on social media leading up to the Patriot Games. With soccer as his primary sport, Brennan said he was particularly eager for kickball, one of several events requiring athletes to adapt beyond their usual specialties. The competition included the 100-meter dash, hurdles and broad jump, along with obstacle-course challenges, dodgeball, kickball, tug-of-war and pop-a-shot basketball. Athletes were also tested on skills drawn from soccer, tennis, football, volleyball and baseball. The Patriot Games were organized by Freedom 250, a public-private partnership created by the Trump administration to plan and fund events commemorating the United States’ 250th anniversary. All applicants submitted eligibility information, questionnaires and videos about their athletic experience, accomplishments and reasons for entering. Freedom 250’s selection committee conducted additional screening before naming the finalists. Freedom 250 spokeswoman Danielle Alvarez described the Patriot Games as a showcase for “America’s next generation of leaders, competitors and champions,” saying the event is part of the organization’s broader lineup of 250th anniversary celebrations intended to bring Americans together and inspire young people. The Patriot Games streamed on the ESPN app from Sunday through Tuesday. A one-hour special featuring competition highlights, athlete profiles and the announcement of the male and female champions is scheduled to air Thursday at 9 p.m. on ABC.
BEN MCKEOWN / AP PHOTO
2 North Carolina teens compete in inaugural Patriot Games
CHARLOTTE — Two North Carolina teenagers carried different athletic backgrounds into the inaugural Patriot Games competition, but Seylah Brown and Chris Brennan shared the same assignment of representing their state on a national stage. Brown, a 17-year-old taekwondo practitioner from Hayesville, and Brennan, a 16-year-old soccer player from Waxhaw, were selected as North Carolina’s female and male representatives for the three-day competition, which ran Sunday through Tuesday at SPIRE Academy in Geneva, Ohio. The Patriot Games brought together 120 athletes ages 14 to 17 as competitors were tested in speed, strength, agility, endurance and teamwork, with points awarded based on their finishes. For Brown, the trip represented another step in an athletic path that changed during the COVID-19 pandemic. She grew up playing sports, particularly soccer. After she was homeschooled during the pandemic, however, she said she could no longer participate in public school athletics. “For a while I didn’t have sports in my life, and that was kind of a dark time for me,”
fore,’” Dickert said, “meaning that spotlight, that scene, that hype. Failure is life’s greatest teacher. I think he’s really taken that and he’s turned whatever people would perceive as failure, he’s internalized that word in a very mature way. In his book, that’s learning, growing and getting better.” Lopez threw for 1,747 yards and 10 touchdowns while running for 133 yards and three scores in 11 games last year, which included being knocked from two games due to injury. He never threw for more than 216 yards in a game, with every outing offering constant scrutiny as Belichick’s first starting quarterback at the college level. “Something I remember, we
won against Stanford but I fumbled in like the second quarter,” Lopez said last month. “I remember the first question being like, ‘When you fumbled, did you feel like you weren’t going to go back in the game, you were going to get benched?’ “I was like, ‘Wow, we won the game.’ It was stuff like that, something that I never had to experience.” Yet rewind to a year earlier, and Lopez’s performance under Ezell at South Alabama offers hope. Lopez threw for 2,559 yards and 18 touchdowns with the Sun Belt program, including a 432-yard day against North Texas to open that 2024 season. He averaged 8.2 yards per attempt, 1.5 yards better than his output at UNC. He also ran for 465 yards and seven scores for the Jaguars, including a 105-yard rushing day against Appalachian State. Lopez had three other games of at least 50 yards on the ground — a threshold he never reached with the Tar Heels. “Anything that went on, I’m just thankful for,” Lopez said. “I don’t regret anything that happened. I got to make a bond with Coach Belichick that I’m super thankful for, and not a lot of people can say they did. I learned a lot from him, and I’m just super thankful for everything that happened.”
Then-UNC quarterback Gio Lopez reacts to an offensive pass interference call in a game against Virginia.
NATE MANLEY / AP PHOTO
Seylah Brown of North Carolina participates in the broad jump during day one of the Patriot Games on Sunday in Geneva, Ohio.
“It’s a blessing for me to get to represent North Carolina.” Chris Brennan
B4
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Johnston County captures Little League Softball World Series crown in Greenville The North Carolina girls went a perfect 5-0 in their tournament run
“I have the best defense behind me, the best offense, the best team.”
By Ryan Henkel North State Journal NORTH CAROLINA has captured its second Little League Softball World Series title in the last three years after the team from Johnston County capped off a perfect postseason to become world champions. In the championship game Sunday in Greenville, North Carolina was lined up against the team from Owensboro, Kentucky, and the local ladies came out ahead by a 2-0 final score. It was a close, defensive matchup between the two teams that had boasted some of the best run prevention in the World Series, but Johnston County found a way to eke out the hits it needed. The winning run came in the bottom of the second inning as Belle Cox hit a blooper over the head of the Kentucky shortstop to drive in first baseman Scarlett Cerda, who had managed to advance to third prior to the hit on some smart baserunning. North Carolina would grab a little insurance in the third as a wild throw on an infield grounder allowed Cambell Swearengin to round an additional two bases and put North Carolina ahead by two. Despite only managing three hits for the game, that was all
Anna-Lynn Clark, Johnston County starting pitcher
COURTESY LITTLE LEAGUE MEDIA RELATIONS
Johnston County celebrates its 2026 Little League Softball World Series title. the team would need as Johnston County’s ace — starting pitcher Anna-Lynn Clark — did what she had done all tournament long and helped put a bow on the title. Not a single Kentucky runner reached past second base, and Clark had six strikeouts in the final game. In total, Clark finished the tournament with a 4-0 record in 24 innings pitched and 41 strikeouts, which led the field. It was the second straight shutout Clark posted in the World Series, as the team defeated Florida 4-0 in the semifinal less than 24 hours earlier. “It feels amazing,” Clark said
to ESPN on becoming a world champion. The win against Kentucky might not have been possible without a few key defensive plays, including Abbey Robinson’s diving catch in right field to end the opening frame with two on and Cerda’s solo double play in the fourth inning. “I have the best defense behind me, the best offense, the best team,” Clark said. “We were moving our feet a lot, talking every play and talking to each other after every single play.” Johnston County is the fourth team from North Carolina to be crowned World Series champions in Little League history, joining Pitt Coun-
Kuechly enters Hall of Fame
St. Xavier High School football coach Steve Specht would walk into his office and find his young linebacker, Luke Kuechly, sitting in front of the television studying game video of the team’s next opponent before sunrise. Kuechly would hit play on the old VHS, pause the tape and then rewind to play again, jotting down notes as he went. Over and over again it went until it was time for class. He’d often return at lunch. And then again following the team’s late afternoon practice (the only time film watching was considered mandatory under Specht). Kuechly would ask questions to Specht along the way: How should we attack if they audible to this formation? What tells
Opposing quarterbacks hated playing against Kuechly. It meant three hours of the opposing middle linebacker standing across the line of
scrimmage and calling out their plays before they happened. When teams tried to audible, Kuechly often knew what was coming then too. Quarterback Jameis Winston once estimated in an NFL films segment that Kuechly knew at least 60% of Tampa Bay’s plays when he was the Buccaneers quarterback. And former Eagles center Jason Kelce joked that Kuechly must have had “insider trader information” when it came to the opposition’s strategy. None of it surprised Specht. “Luke’s intelligence, it was God-given,” said Specht, who still coaches at St. Xavier. “The football IQ part of it was really interesting to watch evolve. Luke absorbed everything that we were trying to coach him up on. He just wanted to learn. A lot of kids, they go to film session for 35, 45 minutes because everybody else is going. Luke came to learn.” The film study carried over to Boston College. By that time the technology had evolved significantly, and Kuechly could watch opponent’s plays broken down by different formation groups, down and distance, and other easily labeled categories. “That was like Disney World to me,” Kuechly said with a laugh. His goal was always one thing: to be better prepared than his opponent. “You want to do anything you can to help your team win, right?” Kuechly said. “Watching tape, talking to coaches and having a good feel for what the other team was going to do, to me, helps you win. And it takes zero athletic ability. It takes zero talent. It’s just how much time you’re willing to put in.”
ally invested in every outcome down the stretch, a rare sight from the last two months. “It’s just it’s a different type of nerves when you know you don’t have your stuff and you’ve got to go out there and execute some shots,” Koivun said. “I think that kind of sparked some emotion in me. Yeah, it’s easier to get comfortable when you’re playing well. It was just kind of a different feeling for me today.” Brennan started feeling the nerves, too. He was four shots behind in a tie for fourth going into the final round of the 3M Open and shot 74 to finish out of the top 20. Last week at the
Rocket Classic, he was in the final group and one shot out of the lead when he went the wrong direction again, closing with a 73 to tie for 15th. He delivered in the final event of the regular season, and it was his mother who came onto the 18th green to celebrate and reminded Brennan the victory also sends him to the Masters. He made his Masters debut this year going from the PGA Tour Americas straight to the big leagues when he won the Bank of Utah Championship last fall. Brennan made birdie on the final hole to finish at 22-under 258, matching the tournament
record at Sedgefield shot three other times, most recently last year by Wake Forest grad Cameron Young. Ben James, the No. 1 player from the PGA Tour University ranking who has a card already secure for 2027, fell out of contention on Saturday but roared back with a 61 to finish third. Brennan was the only player to move into the top 70, replacing Steven Fisk, who was at No. 69 but missed the cut at the Wyndham Championship and fell to No. 71. Also failing to advance to the postseason was Brooks Koepka, the first player to rejoin the PGA Tour after being
His game film study, preparation helped shape the Panthers linebacker’s career By Steve Reed and Rob Maaddi The Associated Press FORMER LINEBACKER Luke Kuechly became the first Carolina Panthers Hall of Famer to spend his entire NFL career with the franchise when he was enshrined in the hall in Canton over the weekend. Introduced by his father, Tom, Kuechly was inducted on the same field where he led St. Xavier High School to a state championship in 2007. Known for his intense study habits, Kuechly was a five-time All-Pro linebacker, the 2012 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year and 2013 AP Defensive Player of the Year during his eight-year career with the Carolina Panthers. Kuechly decided to retire in part to preserve his brain health after suffering several concussions. “This game teaches you a lot if you’re willing to observe and listen,” Kuechly said. “It’s taught me resilience, consistency, toughness, the value of communication, how to find common ground and, most importantly, how to enjoy it along the way ’cause oftentimes the best moments are the ones you are in.” Visions of future greatness in high school There were mornings when
BRENNAN from page B1 But he had to sweat it out after closing with a 71. Matt Wallace and Davis Thompson were still on the course and in range of finishing high enough to bump Koivun out of the top 70. But they failed to hole all the key putts, and Koivun made it with eight points to spare. A bogey might have been enough to knock him out of the postseason. But on the 18th hole at Sedgefield Country Club, Koivun piped his drive straight down the middle, leaving a wedge from the fairway and an easy par. Known for his composure, he was emotion-
ty (2023) and Rowan County (2015, 2019). While Johnston County chartered its Little League program in 1993, it wasn’t till 2023 that it expanded to softball. And in four years, they’ve managed to field a champion. “All these girls have played travel ball, different teams, different schools, but we were really able to unite under Johnston County,” said North Carolina manager Ben Catarozzoli to ESPN. “We were able to convince some people to play, get involved. We started with four girls and just kept working our way up and brought some girls over from different rec programs in the area and just kept building and building and got here.” North Carolina boasts the fourth most Little League Softball World Series titles amongst all U.S. states, trailing only Texas (14), Florida (8) and California (5). Johnston County finished the tournament with a 5-0 record, defeating teams from Canada, Texas, Florida and Kentucky while outscoring their op-
DAVID DERMER / AP PHOTO
Luke Kuechly reacts after placing his bust in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio. should I be looking for? How do we shut them down? It is there, in Specht’s tiny office, where Kuechly would spend endless hours learning the art of breaking down game film and utilizing the knowledge he picked up about an opponent’s tendencies to give him an edge on game day. It’s a skill that would become Kuechly’s calling card — and one that helped propel him to greatness. Art of calling out plays before they happened
ponents by a combined total of 29-7. The team improved as the tournament wore on, and the most runs they allowed throughout the whole last week was in their opening game against Canada, which they won 16-4. Beyond that, the closest game for the Johnston County girls wound up being the second of their opening day double-header, where it managed to find a sixth-inning winner to squeeze past Texas by a final score of 2-1. It was a true testament to how good the team had been this year, from their dominant state championship run, in which they didn’t allow a single run, all the way to the World Series title. “To end up being the best at something, you can’t take that feeling away,” Catarozzoli said to WCTI News 12. “They’ve worked so hard. We told them from Day 1 if they continued to work the way they did and believe in each other, we could accomplish this.” The Johnston County girls’ performance brought on congratulations from all across the state, from the Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes to U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson (R-N.C.) and Gov. Josh Stein “Let’s go, NC!,” Stein wrote on his X account. “Congratulations to our team, hailing from Johnston County. National champs. Second time in three years. We’re proud of you.”
McDermott said by the time Kuechly arrived in Carolina he was at a “different level” than other players when it came to his knowledge of the game and instincts. “The good ones, they see things through the lens of a quarterback,” McDermott said. “Luke’s ability to process things so quickly was so rare. I’ve only seen it in a few players.”
at LIV Golf. Koepka needed a fourth-place finish and was saddled again by poor putting that led to a tie for 67th. The five-time major champion had only one top 10 this year. “It’s just all on the greens. I don’t know what the deal is, got zero confidence,” Koepka said. “There’s going to be a lot of changes here soon. “I think it’s pretty pathetic that I can’t get through (to the postseason),” he said. “To be in the prime of your career and be as good as I think I am, I think that’s very pathetic, disappointing. Just need to go home and completely reevaluate everything.”
Kuechly had other attributes that led to Hall It was often said that Kuechly looked like Clark Kent with the dark hair, rimmed glasses and a gentle persona off the field, but that he played like Superman. He had physical tools and a demolition mentality to go along with his high football IQ. At 6-foot-3, 238 pounds, he once ran a 4.58-second 40-yard dash at the NFL scouting combine. It was not uncommon to see No. 59 sprint from his middle linebacker position and drag down a running back near the sideline behind the line of scrimmage. He had 75 tackles for a loss in his career. He was a menace who had a knack for shedding blocks and locking up on tackles. He became the fastest player in NFL history to reach 1,000 career tackles, doing so in 107 career games. “Luke had qualities you can’t teach,” said Fox Sports analyst Greg Olsen, a former tight end who played eight seasons with Kuechly in Carolina. “You can’t teach instinct. You can’t teach feel. And then you combine that with his physical ability and his desire to win, and you’ve got what every team is looking for — a Hall of Famer.”
B5
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Nelson, second-winningest NBA coach, dead at 86 The innovative coach also won five titles as a player with the Celtics By John Raby The Associated Press DON NELSON, the second-winningest coach in NBA history who won five championships as a player with the Boston Celtics, died at 86. Nelson’s family confirmed the death in a statement that did not say where he died or provide a cause. Nelson is one of two coaches in NBA history to have at least 250 wins with three different franchises — Milwaukee, Dallas and Golden State — also serving as general manager for all three franchises. He was a three-time coach of the year and made the playoffs 18 times in 31 seasons. He went to the conference finals three times with the Bucks and once with the Mavericks, never winning a title. Nelson introduced what is now known as the point forward, and his up-tempo style of offense created a buzz. He said the idea of shifting from the dominant big men of the 1970s to an offense focused on speed and the fast break came from his playing days under Celtics Hall of Fame coach Red Auerbach. “The league really hadn’t seen an offense like the one we were running, and the results were undeniable,” Nelson wrote in 2016. Nelson said that “without Red Auerbach teaching me the mechanics of running the fast break, none of it would have been possible. He deserves all the credit for Nellie Ball, and for how fast the game of basketball is played today.” Nelson played 11 of his 14 seasons in Boston and was on five Celtics championship teams. He became an assistant coach in Milwaukee after retiring as a player, then took over after coach Larry Costello resigned 18 games into the 1976-77 season. Nelson coached the Bucks for 11 seasons and won seven straight division titles. In Nelson’s second season, Milwaukee overcame a 29-point fourth quarter deficit to beat Atlanta 117-115 in regulation. “I coached the team as though I was still playing for the Celtics, while implementing a few of my own strategies,” Nelson wrote. “I knew I wanted to play unconventional basketball and use speed to my advantage.” His fast-paced offenses were probably best on display with Golden State in the “Run TMC” era featuring future Hall of Famers Tim Hardaway, Mitch Richmond and Chris Mullin. Nelson said he wanted them on the court at the same time. Nelson spent 11 seasons over two stints with Golden State. In between, Nelson was fired after less than one season in New York in 1995-96,
“He had an immeasurable impact on the sport and will go down as one of the greatest minds in the history of the game.” Stephen Curry on Don Nelson then coached in Dallas for eight seasons. Nelson’s son, Donnie, joined his father as an assistant coach with the Mavericks in 1998, later became general manager and remained with the organization until 2021. Together they persuaded 20-year-old German star Dirk Nowitzki to pass up European basketball and join the Mavericks. Don Nelson also developed Steve Nash into one of the NBA’s top point guards. “Don Nelson was a true innovator whose influence on the game of basketball is still felt today,” current Warriors coach Steve Kerr said. “He consistently challenged conventional thinking, experimented with different lineups and styles of play and saw possibilities in the game that others often did not. So much of what is now commonplace in the modern NBA can be traced back to the way Nellie approached the game.” At Golden State, Nelson’s “We Believe” Warriors led by Baron Davis upset Nowitzki and the top-seeded Mavericks in the first round of the 2007 playoffs in one of the biggest shockers in NBA history. In his final season as a coach, Nelson mentored rookie Stephen Curry in 2009-10. “One of the big reasons I was drafted by the Warriors was because of Don Nelson. The story is he never liked rookies, but from Day 1 he challenged me and gave me an opportunity to be my best self on the court,” Curry said in a statement released by the Warriors. “He taught me a lot during our one season together and I’ll never forget the night he became the winningest coach in NBA history in Minnesota. We were so happy for him. He had an immeasurable impact on the sport and will go down as one of the greatest minds in the history of the game.” Davis added: “When I think of Nellie, I’ll always think of the ‘We Believe’ team and our incredible run in 2007. He understood what made us go and made us believe we could beat anybody, ultimately helping us make history as the first No. 8 seed to defeat a No. 1 seed in a seven-game series. That time in my life and career was truly special, and Nellie was a huge part of making it possible.” Nelson retired as the NBA’s career coaching wins leader with 1,335. Nelson kept that top spot for nearly 12 years until 2022. Nelson was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2012.
AP PHOTO
Boston Celtics’ Don Nelson (19) goes to the basket against Milwaukee’s Cornell Warner (35) during a NBA championship game May 12, 1974, in Milwaukee. Stephen Curry, right, smiles with Warriors head coach Don Nelson during a news conference after Curry was Golden State’s top pick in the 2009 draft.
PAUL SAKUMA / AP PHOTO
TAKE NOTICE County, North Carolina, to wit:
FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING.
Land situated in the Township of No. 4 in the County of Cabarrus in the State of NC.
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.
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.
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:
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 cash the following described property situated in Cabarrus
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 WESTERN EDGE OF HAZEL AVENUE S. 6-28 W. 138.70
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,
CABARRUS 26SP000087-120 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CABARRUS COUNTY
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.
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”. 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
B6
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
CUMBERLAND NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Publication 2026 and
Dates: August
August 20,
13, 2026
25SP000697-250 Under and by virtue of power of sale granted to Petitioner pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47F-3-116 under a Claim of Lien filed on September 24, 2024 in Cumberland County File Number 24M001023-250 (the “Lien”) against Devin C. Montoya and Maria Fernanda Romero Torres (“Respondents”), by Crosswinds of Cumberland Homeowners Association, Inc. As the beneficiary of the Claim of Lien and pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47F-3-116, Crosswinds of Cumberland Homeowners Association, Inc. seeks to foreclose the Lien, which evidences a valid debt. Respondents defaulted on the payment of the debt represented by the Claim of Lien. The undersigned will offer for sale at the courthouse door in the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00
NOTICE 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 OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000139-250 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Gabriel Smallwood-Alling and Annabel M. Wallace (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Gabriel Smallwood-Alling and Annabel M. Wallace) to Ashish G. Lakhiani, Trustee(s), dated December 20, 2021, and recorded in Book No. 11345, at Page 0580 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 24, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real
26-124406 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 26SP000335-250 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY RONNIE GRAHAM AND LEVERN GRAHAM DATED OCTOBER 31, 2022 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 11606 AT PAGE 827 IN THE CUMBERLAND 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
03-54863 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 25SP001352-250 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JANIE M. MCNEAL DATED SEPTEMBER 24, 1998 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 4948 AT PAGE 896 IN THE CUMBERLAND 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
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 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
PM on August 24, 2026 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: BEING all of Lot 20, Crosswinds Subdivision, Section Four, Phase One, Part Two, per plat and survey thereof recorded in Plat Book 125, page 115, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, reference to which plat is hereby made for a more particular description of same. Parcel Identification No. 0425-42-8393 The street address of said property is 516 Bellgrove Drive, Hope Mills, NC 28348. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in NCGS §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 NCGS §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
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: BEING ALL of Lot 4, Block C of GREENWOOD HOMES, SECTION III, as same is shown on
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. This the 10th day of July, 2026.
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 Crosswinds of Cumberland Homeowners Association, Inc. 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 expressly are disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or 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 payoff of the
lien 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. 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 Respondent has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the
map thereof recorded in Plat Book 16 Page 13, in the Cumberland County Registry
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
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.
BY:
/S/ AnnMarie Taylor____ AnnMarie Taylor
Attorney Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. Hutchens Law Firm
for
An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. § 45-21.29
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
expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 10:30AM on August 24, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Ronnie Graham and Levern Graham, dated October 31, 2022 to secure the original principal amount of $165,000.00, and recorded in Book 11606 at Page 827 of the Cumberland 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: 7302 Avalon Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28303 Tax Parcel ID: 9499-80-3056 Present Record Owners:
CBC Investments The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are CBC Investments. 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 August 4, 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:
of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 10:30AM on August 24, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Janie M. McNeal, dated September 24, 1998 to secure the original principal amount of $50,150.00, and recorded in Book 4948 at Page 896 of the Cumberland 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: 7329 Hyannis Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28304 Tax Parcel ID: 0406-04-2476
Present Record Owners: The Heirs of Janie M. McNeal The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Janie M. McNeal. 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 August 4, 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:
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. 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.
estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 123, in a subdivision known as Hillendale West, Section Two, Part One, and the same being duly recorded in Plat Book 42, Page 75, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3528 Barron Way, Fayetteville, North Carolina. Parcel ID: 0429-74-6374 Property Address: 3528 Barron Way, Fayetteville, NC 28311 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: 30177 - 156304
26-124406
03-54863
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
B7
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
CUMBERLAND NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000686-250 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by M3B SFR LLC, a Texas limited liability company (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): M3B SFR LLC, a Texas limited liability company) to Angela DiTommaso, Trustee(s), dated November 29, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 11625, at Page 0001 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 24, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real
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
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 25SP000952-250 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by JESSICA LYNNE DAVENPORT AND CHARLES DAVENPORT dated October 5, 2021 in the amount of $233,300.00 and recorded in Book 11271, Page 0104 of 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 12158, Page 0686, 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 location designated for foreclosure sales, on August 26, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Publication 2026 and
Dates: August
August 20,
13, 2026
26SP000528-250 Under and by virtue of power of sale granted to Petitioner pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47C-3-116 under a Claim of Lien filed on June 27, 2025 in Cumberland County File Number 25M000528-250 (the “Lien”) against Samantha McKnight (“Respondent”), by Karen Lake Townhomes, Inc. As the beneficiary of the Claim of Lien and pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47F-3116, Karen Lake Townhomes, Inc. seeks to foreclose the Lien, which evidences a valid debt. Respondent defaulted on the payment of the debt represented by the Claim of Lien. The undersigned will offer for sale at the courthouse door in the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on August 24, 2026 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
DAVIDSON NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000173-280 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Wayne Theo Easter (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Wayne Theo Easter) to Millard S. Rubenstein, Trustee(s), dated March 13, 2006, and recorded in Book No. 1685, at Page 1645 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 24, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real
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.
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
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.
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): 0406-70-6501 ADDRESS: 1518 QUAIL HOLLOW COURT FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28304 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JESSICA DAVENPORT THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 11271, PAGE 0104, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 171, IN A SUBDIVISION KNOWN AS BEAVER CREEK, SECTION THREE, AND THE SAME BEING DULY RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 90, PAGE 139, CUMBERLAND COUNTY, REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be 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.
follows: Being all of Lot No. 93 in a Subdivision known as KAREN LAKE TOWNHOMES, PHASE 5, according to a Plat of the same duly recorded in Plat Book 66, Page 47, in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.
representative of either the Trustee or Karen Lake Townhomes, Inc. 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 expressly are disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or 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 payoff of the lien 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. 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 Respondent 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. This the 10th day of July, 2026.
unto Wayne Theo Easter.
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
estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The Land is described as follows Being all of Lot No 17, Block “A” in a Subdivision known as Braxton Hills, Section Two, according to a Plat of same duly recorded in Book of Plats 28 Page 39, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 597 Braxton Boulevard, Fayetteville, North Carolina. Tax ID 0521-40-5668 NOTE The property address and tax parcel identification number listed are provided solely for informational purposes, without warranty as to accuracy or completeness and are not hereby insured. Being that parcel of land conveyed to Cash Flowing LLC from Jorg Pierce Grier, Executor of the Estate of Traute L. Grier and Jorg Pierce Grier, Individually as Heir to the Estate of Traute L. Grier and Ramer Roy Grier, Individually and as Heir to the Estate of Traute L. Grier, and spouse Agnes Grier by that Deed dated 1/14/2022 and recorded 1/25/2022 in Official Records Book 11374, at Page 0744 of the Public Records of Cumberland County, NC. Being that parcel of land conveyed to Ervin P Grier, Jr. and wife, Traute D Grier from Harrington Construction, Inc. by that Deed dated 11/14/1966 and recorded 11/15/1966
Parcel Identification No. 0418486024 The street address of said property is 1296 North Forest Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28303. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in NCGS §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 NCGS §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
estate situated in Lexington in the County of Davidson, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Tract No. 2: Beginning at an iron stake in Jimmie Varner’s line same being 6 feet East of Jimmie Varner Northwest corner; thence North 8 deg. 50 min. East 370 1/2 feet to an iron stake on South Bank of Hannersville Road; thence with road South 63 deg. 55 min. East 139 feet to an iron stake on South Bank of the Hannersville Road; corner of Tract No. 1; thence with No. 1 South 10 degs. 40 min. West 362 feet 9 inches to an iron stake in Jimmie Varner’s line corner to Tract No. 1; thence with Varner’s line North 66 degs. 30 min. West 125 1/2 feet to the beginning, containing 19/100 acres, more or less. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 648 Heath Church Road, Lexington, North Carolina. The improvements thereon being commonly known as 648 Heath Church Road, Lexington, North Carolina 27292. Being the same lot or parcel of ground which by Deed dated July 24, 1965 and recorded among the land records of Davidson County in Book 413 Page 208, was granted and conveyed by Hobert Lee Frank and wife, Joan S. Frank, unto Wayne Theo Easter and wife, Lucille R. Easter. The said Lucille R. Easter having since departed this life on or about April 30, 1997 thereby vesting Absolute Fee Simple Title
in Official Records Book 2005, at Page 189 of the Public Records of Cumberland County, NC. 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
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: 24434 - 122174
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
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
BY:
/S/ AnnMarie Taylor____ AnnMarie Taylor
Attorney Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. Hutchens Law Firm
for
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: 29615 - 152923
B8
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
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
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: 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
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 to the highest bidder for cash the following real
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, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on August 19, 2026 at
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded
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 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.
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
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.
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
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
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
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
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 13, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
FORSYTH 16-085065 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FORSYTH COUNTY 17SP000479-330 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY THOMAS E. JOHNSON AND JEANNETTE M. JOHNSON DATED SEPTEMBER 30, 2005 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 2605 AT PAGE 838 IN THE FORSYTH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the abovereferenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for
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 abovereferenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place
IREDELL 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 AM on August 20, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Statesville in the
sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Forsyth County courthouse at 11:00AM on August 27, 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 Thomas E. Johnson and Jeannette M. Johnson, dated September 30, 2005 to secure the original principal amount of $151,488.00, and recorded in Book 2605 at Page 838 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: 405 Bangor Dr, Winston Salem, NC 27107 Tax Parcel ID: 6855-63-9279.00 Present Record Owners: Thomas E. Johnson and Jeannette M. Johnson
The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Thomas E. Johnson and Jeannette M. Johnson. 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 re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be 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 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: 16-085065
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 re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began
or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be 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:
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. 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
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
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
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
25-123706
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 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
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 13, 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 26SP000302-480 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 June 6, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 2928, at Page 1272 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 27, 2026 and will sell to the
26SP000205-480 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, IREDELL COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Vu Anh Bui and Thi To Quynh Nguyen to Gwynn, Edwards & Getter, PA, Trustee(s), which was dated May 23, 2024 and recorded on May 23, 2024 in Book 3063 at Page 98, Iredell 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
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 Carolina, at 2:00 PM on August 18th, 2026,
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
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
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. 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.
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 12 as shown on map of Carolwoods Subdivision as recorded in Plat Book 17 at Pages 38 and 38A in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Iredell County, reference to said plat is hereby made for greater certainty of description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 155 Carolwoods Drive A, Mooresville, North Carolina and 155 Carolwoods Drive B, Mooresville, North Carolina. For Informational Purposes Only: Also known as 155 Carolwoods Drive, Mooresville, NC 28115 Parcel ID: 4675109932.000 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320
requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. The property to be 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.
on August 27, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Iredell County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING ALL OF LOT 126 OF BELL FARM SUBDIVISION, AS SAME IS SHOWN ON MAP RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 77 AT PAGES 104-109, IREDELL COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA REGISTRY. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 148 Pampas Place, Statesville, NC 28625. 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 Vu Anh Bui and wife, Thi To Quynh Nguyen. 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.: 26-10891-FC01
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.
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.
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.
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 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
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
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.
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
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: 28887 - 147791
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
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
B11
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
JOHNSTON 25SP000721-500 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 Mary Ann Sanders a/k/a Mary Ann Novak and Ty Young Sanders to Hilton T. Hutchens, Jr. Esq., Trustee(s), which was dated July 25, 2022 and recorded on August 1, 2022 in Book 6313 at Page 454, 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,
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, JOHNSTON COUNTY 26 SP000101-500 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Malissa Yeager , Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $261,000.00, to MetLife Home Loans, a Division of MetLife Bank, N.A. , Mortgagee, dated December 16th, 2010 and recorded on December 21st, 2010 in Book 3932, Page 550, Johnston 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 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 or other usual place of
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 payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the
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 highest bidder for cash the following real
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
NEW HANOVER NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000330-640 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Craig Slagowski and Rebecca Slagowski (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Craig Slagowski and Rebecca Slagowski) to Commonwealth Land Title Company, Trustee(s), dated November 16, 2016, and recorded in Book No. RB6020, at Page 1072 in New Hanover 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 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 in Wilmington, New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on August 25, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder
or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on August 25, 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: Being all of Lot 107, Kings Ridge Subdivision, Section Six, as recorded in Plat Book 41, Page 105, Johnston County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 408 Beulah Milton Dr, Willow Spring, NC 27592. 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 All Lawful Heirs of Mary Ann Sanders. 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.: 25-35185-FC01
sale in Johnston County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on August 25th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in the Township of Wilders, Johnston County, North Carolina, described as follows: Being all of Lot 32, Sandy Branch Plantation Subdivision, Phase 3, as Shown on Map recorded in Plat Book 54, Page 296, Johnston County Registry, to which plat reference is hereby made for a full and complete description of said lot. By Fee Simple Deed from Scott Lee Homes, Inc, as set forth in Book 1846, Page 792 dated 07/02/1999, Johnston County Records, State of North Carolina. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 146 Sandy Branch Lane, Clayton, NC 27527 Tax ID: 16I03018B 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 Malissa Yeager.
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.
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.
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:
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:
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.
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.
However, by showing this address no additional coverage is provided
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.
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 pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One
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
for cash the following real estate situated in Wilmington in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The land referred to herein below is situated in the County of New Hanover, State of North Carolina, and is described as follows: Beginning in the eastern line of Thirteenth Street at a point 206 plus/minus feet north of the northern line of Mulberry Street (now called Grace Street), runs thence northwardly along said eastern line of Thirteenth Street thirty-three (33) feet, thence eastwardly and parallel with Mulbery (or Grace) street one hundred and thirtytwo (132) feet, thence southwardly and parallel with Thirteenth Street thirty-three (33) feet, thence westwardly and parallel with Mulberry (or Grace) street one hundred and thirty-two (132) feet to the eastern line of Thirteenth Street, the beginning point same being part of Lot 3 in Block 470 according to the official plan of the City of Wilmington and the same being conveyed by CC Chadbourn and wife to Stephen Washington and wife, Amy, by deed dated March 27th, 1918 and recorded in Book 107, Pages 74 and 75 of the Registry of New Hanover County. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 410 North 13th Street, Wilmington, North Carolina. Parcel ID: R04814-018-005-000 Commonly known as 410 N 13th Street, Wilmington, NC 28401
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
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
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 25-003320-01
25-123242
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
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 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: 31459 - 164045
B12
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
NEW HANOVER 25SP001684-640 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY
NEW
HANOVER
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Christy Tiernan Jacks and Michael Patrick Jacks to Bagwell, Holt, Smith, P.A., Trustee(s), which was dated June 16, 2022 and recorded on June 17, 2022 in Book 6573 at Page 2416, 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,
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 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
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):
ONSLOW NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA ONSLOW COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FILE NO. 25CV006872-660 UMB BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIAITION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS LEGAL TITLE TRUSTEE FOR LVS TITLE TRUST XIII,
RANDOLPH NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000143-750 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Eric Nakia Walters (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Eric Nakia Walters) to Josh J. Costner, Trustee(s), dated April 21, 2025, and recorded in Book No. 2959, at Page 491 in Randolph County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Randolph County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Asheboro, Randolph County, North Carolina, or the customary
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 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
or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on August 25, 2026 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in New Hanover County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING all of Lot 55, The Townes at Lewis Creek Subdivision, per plat and survey thereof recorded in Map Book 69, Pages 126-129, inclusive, New Hanover County Registry, to which plat reference is hereby made for a more particular description of same. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 1658 Killdeer Lane, Wilmington, NC 28405. 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 Christy Tiernan Jacks and spouse, Michael Patrick Jacks. 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.: 25-34075-FC01
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.
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 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.
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.
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
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
PARCEL ID NUMBER: R03500-005-544000 ALSO KNOWN AS: 2833 WHITE RD, WILMINGTON, NC 28411 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion,
Plaintiff, v. 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. NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION TO: Aaron M. Harrison Spouse of Aaron M. Harrison, if any Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above
This the 27th day of July 2026.
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
Dates of Publication: July 30, 2026; August 6, 2026; and August 13, 2026.
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
HUTCHENS LAW FIRM LLP By: __/s/: Bryce Ashby____
THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A
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
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:
location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on August 26, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Asheboro in the County of Randolph, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot No. 9 of High Meadows Subdivision as shown on plat recorded in Plat Book 30, Page 6, Randolph County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3817 Old Cox Road, Asheboro, North Carolina. Tax Parcel Number: 7677-59-0725 Property Address: 3817 Old Cox Road, Asheboro, NC 27205 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: 31681 - 165605
25-123745
B13
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
ROBESON NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA ROBESON COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FILE NO. 25CV004778-770 NEWREZ LLC d/b/a Shellpoint Mortgage Servicing, Plaintiff, vs. SEQUOIA SHONTA ALLEN and SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, Defendants. 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 SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA ROBESON COUNTY NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA ROBESON COUNTY
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 PM on August 20, 2026 and will sell to the
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 of the secured debt, the undersigned will
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 payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder
WAKE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, WAKE COUNTY 26 SP 001381-910 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Junhui Ji, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $348,000.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), as beneficiary, as nominee for Home Point Financial Corporation, Mortgagee, dated October 27th, 2021 and recorded on October 27th, 2021 in Book 018769, Page 00657, Wake County Registry. Default having been made in the payment of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, WAKE COUNTY 26 SP 001131-910 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Josue L. Argueta and Daniela Argueta, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $242,666.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), as beneficiary, as nominee for Primary Residential Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 12th, 2020 and recorded on March 12th, 2020 in Book 17781, Page 2644, Wake County Registry. Default having been made in the payment of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Wake County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed,
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 2, 2026. /s/ Ellen Wiggins_____________________ 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 25-121056
Tax Parcel ID: 321305022 Present Record Owners: Sequoia Shonta Allen The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Sequoia Shonta Allen. 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
relief against you has been filed in the above-entitled action. The relief sought is a monetary judgment in the principal amount of $48,430.60, together with pre-judgment interest on the principal balance at the rate of 8.99% per annum from October 1, 2025, until the date of judgment, and thereafter post-judgment interest at the legal rate of 8.00% per annum until paid, plus the costs of this action, including attorney’s fees in the amount of $1,200.00. Plaintiff further seeks
immediate and permanent possession of the following collateral: a 2019 Fleetwood Homes Manufactured Home, Model No. 70EK16763Z, VIN FLE270VA1974533. You are required to make defense to such pleading no later than September 13, 2026, and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service against you will apply to the Court for the relief sought in the pleading.
provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.
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.
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
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:
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:
by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Wake County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Wake County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on August 27th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Being all of Lot 7, Amber Ridge Subdivision, Phase 5, as shown on Maps 2017, Pages 2261-2263, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 824 Amber Forest Drive, Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 Tax ID: 0451074 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 Junhui Ji. 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 undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Wake County, North Carolina, at 10:00 AM on August 27th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: BEING all of Lot 62, Shepards Park Subdivision, as shown on that plat recorded in Book of Maps 2018, Pages 1596-1601, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 205 Quincy Meadow Ave, Zebulon, NC 27597 Tax ID: 0460112 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 Josue L. Argueta and Daniela Argueta. 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.
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 Robeson County courthouse at 10:00AM on August 25, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Robeson County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Sequoia Shonta Allen, dated October 29, 2021 to secure the original principal amount of $147,283.00, and recorded in Book 2313 at Page 159 of the Robeson 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: 216 West 22nd Street, Lumberton, NC 28358
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26CV000951770 SOUTHWEST STAGE FUNDING, LLC DBA CASCADE FINANCIAL SERVICES, Plaintiff v. JORGE L HILERIO, Defendant TAKE NOTICE that a pleading seeking
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
Julia A. May, Crawford & von Keller, PLLC Attorneys of Southwest Stage Funding, LLC DBA Cascade Financial Services, Plaintiff 710 Military Cutoff Rd.; Suite 250, Wilmington, NC 28405 Phone: (910) 363-1673, Fax: (910) 363-1650
This, the 5th day of August, 2026.
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
25-123525
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 26-002242-01
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 26-001623-01
B14
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
WAKE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, WAKE COUNTY 26 SP 000640-910 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by James Robert Jordan and Jenilee A. Jordan, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $212,250.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., (“MERS”) as beneficiary, as nominee for Guaranteed Rate, Inc., Mortgagee, dated September 15th, 2021 and recorded on September 20th, 2021 in Book 018704, Page 00195, Wake County Registry. Default having been made in the payment of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Wake County,
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 expose for sale at public auction at the
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 on August 19, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Wake
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 abovereferenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand
NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA WAKE COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FILE NO. 25CV012920-910 CARRINGTON MORTGAGE SERVICES, LLC, Plaintiff, v. J. LIN DAWSON, THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF LORI JANINE DAWSON, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT, and SUMMER PLACE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION OF RALEIGH, Inc., Defendants. 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
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP000884-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Christina WashingtonKoger (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Royce Washington) to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), dated November 2, 2009, and recorded in Book No. 013774, at Page 02462 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 24, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following
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.
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 Wake County, North Carolina, at 10:00 AM on August 27th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Being all of Lot 13 of Green Pines Subdivision, Section 1, Revised, as shown on map recorded in Book of Maps 1959, Page 170, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 121 Daniel Circle, Knightdale, NC 27545 Tax ID: 0031577 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 James Robert Jordan and Jenilee A. Jordan. 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.
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:
County, North Carolina, to wit:
immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.
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.
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. 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
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.
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
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 26-000821-01
26-125736
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
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:
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 Wake County courthouse at 11:00AM on August 27, 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 Lori Janine Little, dated November 27, 2012 to secure the original principal amount of $147,283.00, and recorded in Book 15032 at Page 1942 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.
1734512914
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.
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.
SPECIAL
23-115642
Address of property: Penncross Dr, Raleigh, NC 27610
1001
Tax Parcel ID:
real estate situated in Raleigh in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The following described property: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in Wake County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 240 of Village Lakes Subdivision, Phase 9, as shown on a map thereof recorded in Book of Maps 1996, Page 956, Wake County Registry, to which plat reference is hereby made for a more particular description of same. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 541 Hanska Way, Raleigh, North Carolina. Assessor’s Parcel Number: 0225016 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
Present Record Owners: Estate of Lori Janine Little
The
The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Estate of Lori Janine Little. 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.
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
NOTICE
FOR
LEASEHOLD
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
File No.: 26-08649-FC01
16-084240
The date of this Notice is June 16, 2026. /s/ Ellen Wiggins____________ 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
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: 16319 - 101474
VOLUME 149 ISSUE 25 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026
CHATHAMNEWSRECORD.COM
THE CHATHAM COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
PJ WARD-BROWN / CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
‘Merican Muscle A number of American classics, both old and newm pulled into the Goldston Cruise In on Saturday.
the
BRIEF this week
Contiguous U.S. breaks record for hottest month ever, NOAA says The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says the contiguous United States set a record for its hottest month ever in July. Last month averaged 76.89 degrees Fahrenheit across the Lower 48 states, eclipsing the Dust Bowl’s July 1936 by an eighth of a degree. Although it was unusually cool in Alaska, hotter than normal conditions blanketed the Lower 48, with the most excessive heat in the Mountain West, Southwest, Northern Plains and Southeast. The biggest driver of the heat was at night. Nighttime lows, which are crucial for people and agriculture to recover from hot days, smashed the old record for hottest minimums by 0.7 degrees, the NOAA said.
U.S. existing homes fall 1.7% in July as record prices, high rates stifle would-be buyers Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes slowed again in July as record prices and the highest mortgage rates in more than a year prove to be an insurmountable hurdle for many prospective homebuyers. The National Association of Realtors said Tuesday that existing home sales fell 1.7% last month from June to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.06 million units. July sales, however, were up 0.7% over last year. Home prices continued to rise, hitting unprecedented levels for July. The U.S. median sales price increased 2% from a year earlier, to $434,100.
County commissioners approve first plats for 2 developments The projects total around 180 residential units By Ryan Henkel Chatham News & Record PITTSBORO — The Chatham County Board of Commissioners approved the first development stage for two sub-
is strictly an administrative one, meaning the board cannot use any discretion in its decision and the only question is whether or not the plat meets the county’s standards. “Were we to move forward with the UDO, we would have zoned the area of this development differently so that this would not be possible,”
said Board Chair Amanda Robertson. Based on current law, if the board had taken no action, the plats would have been automatically approved 65 days after their submission and as submitted, meaning no additional conditions would be applied. See PROJECTS, page A7
Trump’s vaccine gives some MAHA voters win while giving Democrats attack line Polls show most voters care more about costs than vaccine safety By Ali Swenson The Associated Press NEW YORK — President Donald Trump pivoted the nation’s attention back to vaccines
this week with an executive order that aims to scale back the childhood immunization schedule and space out shots into separate visits. After acting to overhaul the nation’s vaccine policy and guidance, the Trump administration had recently largely stepped back from additional changes to focus on less controversial sub-
jects, raising questions over the political impetus behind and implications of the Republican president’s renewed focus on vaccines. For well over a decade, Trump has expressed his view — against medical groups’ guidance — that childhood vaccines should be administered in smaller doses over a long period of time. The execu-
Trump officials propose new scrutiny of food ingredients “Shifting to a mandatory notification system closes a decadesold information gap.” Kyle Diamantas, acting FDA commissioner
$2.00
division projects at its July 27 meeting. The actions included approving the first plat for a 183-acre, 132-lot development located off of Buckner Clark Road (Webster Farm) and a 164-acre, 48-lot development located off of Pleasant Hill Church Road (Hickory Mountain Reserve). The first plat review process
The rule would close a decades-old loophole allowing companies to self-approve food additives By Matthew Perrone The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. health officials on Monday proposed a rule change that would require food manufacturers to notify regulators before introducing new ingredients or additives into processed or packaged foods. The proposal would change a decades-old policy that advocates have called a regulatory loophole, blaming it for allowing thousands of unvetted
ingredients into the U.S. food supply. Under the proposed rule from the Food and Drug Administration, companies would have to document and submit their safety findings for new ingredients, giving regulators the opportunity to investigate if they see a potential safety risk. Currently, companies can decide for themselves if an ingredient or additive is “generally recognized as safe,” and there is no requirement for companies to notify or submit evidence to the FDA, although some do. “Shifting to a mandatory notification system closes a decades-old information gap, giving the FDA the comprehensive See FOOD, page A7
tive order sought to bear out that discredited theory. While the move could endear Trump to some “Make America Healthy Again” voters who want more flexibility on immunizations, it’s also already attracting attacks designed to hurt Trump’s aligned candidates in See MAHA, page A10
A2
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
THURSDAY
8.13.26 #155
“Join the conversation” Chatham News & Record www.chathamnewsrecord.com
North State Media LLC 303 West Raleigh Street Siler City, North Carolina 27344 Copyright 2026 Trip Hoffend Publisher Jim Sills VP of Local Newspapers Jordan Golson Local News Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Dan Reeves Features Editor Asheebo Rojas Sports Reporter Ryan Henkel Reporter PJ Ward-Brown Photographer BUSINESS David Guy Advertising Manager Chatham News & Record (USPS #101160) is published weekly, 52 weeks a year, by North State Media LLC 303 West Raleigh Street Siler City, NC 27344 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Chatham News & Record PO Box 290 Siler City, NC 27344 CONTACT US For a vacation hold or to report a delivery problem: 919-663-3232 To place a classified or display ad: 919-663-3232; Fax: 919-663-4042 To submit a news tip or correction: 919-663-3232; news@chathamnewsrecord.com
Trump announces staff secretary Scharf will be new White House counsel The timing comes ahead of midterm elections where Democrats have promised investigations
The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump announced Sunday that his new White House counsel will be Will Scharf, the staff secretary who as the Trump-appointed head of the National Capital Planning Commission helped secure approval for the $400 million ballroom project. Trump said, beginning Sept. 1, Scharf will be replacing David Warrington, who will be leaving the administration to join the private sector. Trump noted that Scharf previously served as a federal prosecutor and represented him in a number of cases, including at the Supreme Court. “Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart! He also loves our Country, and respects the Law,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Will Scharf will do a great job as White House Counsel!” The shakeup in the White House counsel’s office comes at a critical juncture — just months ahead of the midterm elections, where Trump’s Re-
publican Party will be fighting to hold on to control of Congress. Democrats have vowed to pursue investigations into Trump and his administration if they are successful in November. The White House counsel’s job is to advise on legal and policy questions related to the presidency. The office is the primary White House contact for the Justice Department, and it handles presidential pardons, works on judicial appointments and reviews legislation. The office also helps investigate and manage congressional investigations into the administration and lawsuits against the president when he is sued in his official capacity. During Trump’s first term, Scharf worked to get judges and justices confirmed for him. They included U.S. Supreme Court Justices Brett Kavanaugh — who himself served as White House staff secretary for President George W. Bush — and Amy Coney Barrett. In the period when Trump was out of office, Scharf joined his legal team in October 2023 and was one of his lawyers in the election interference case brought by special counsel Jack Smith. The case went before the Supreme Court, which ruled that presidents en-
joy sweeping immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts. Scharf is among several of Trump’s lawyers who have been rewarded with spots in his second administration. Todd Blanche, who represented Trump during the Republican’s hush money trial in New York, was confirmed last week as attorney general. As White House staff secretary, Scharf was responsible for managing the papers that cross the president’s desk. He is at Trump’s side when the president signs executive orders and often provides running narration on what Trump is signing. Trump in July 2025 named Scharf as chair of the National Capital Planning Commission, the executive branch agency with jurisdiction over construction and major renovations to government buildings in the region. Trump’s ballroom won final approval from the NCPC in April, though a divided federal appeals court ruled last Friday that construction on the project must stop because Congress had not approved it. Trump has vowed to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. The project is already well on its way and has begun to rise above ground on the east side of the White House.
CHATHAM
happening Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Chatham County:
Aug. 14 Nine Times Around 7-8:30 p.m. The North Carolina-based Irish and Celtic band performs traditional jigs, reels and folk ballads as part of the free Bynum Front Porch summer music series at the Historic Bynum General Store. Bynum Front Porch 950 Bynum Road Bynum
Aug. 15 Sanford Farmers Market 8:30 a.m. to noon 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. Experience the ultimate in food, fun and fellowship in the Sandhills region. 115 Chatham St. Sanford
Aug. 16
SUBSCRIPTION RATES
Piedmont Pear Party
Annual subscription rate: $104.
Noon to 6 p.m. The Plant celebrates pear season with a culinary competition, a vendor market and live music from Southern RanT, plus a talk on pears, perry and fermentation.
CRIME LOG Aug. 3 • Drake Larue Corby, 21, was arrested for breaking and entering and injury to personal property.
The Plant 220 Lorax Lane Pittsboro
• Deaundre Alexander Alston, 22, was arrested for possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine, felony possession of cocaine and assault on a female, and other charges. • Franklin Dekova Brown, 37, was arrested for felony possession of cocaine and possession of a controlled substance on prison or jail premises.
Aug. 21 ALEX BRANDON / AP PHOTO
White House staff secretary Will Scharf, left, hands President Donald Trump an executive order to sign in the Oval Office on Sept. 5, 2025.
• Jessica Danielle Hensley, 25, was arrested for felony conspiracy, aiding and abetting larceny and possession of a catalytic converter, and other charges.
• Gerrall Deangelo Johnson, 38, was arrested for second-degree trespassing. • Stephanie Rena Mashburn, 42, of Bear Creek, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. • Christopher Michael Fortunes, 52, of Chapel Hill, was arrested for felony worthless check and obtaining property by false pretense. Aug. 5 • Michael Vasquez Watson, 49, was arrested for possession with intent to sell or deliver marijuana; manufacturing, selling, delivering or possessing a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a park; and possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a controlled substance; and other charges. Aug. 6 • Joshua Aponte-Burt, 24, was arrested for driving on a revoked license and expired registration. Aug. 7 • Brian Antonio Franco, 29, was arrested for violating post-release supervision. • Gregory Alan Smith, 47, was arrested for littering under 10 pounds.
7-9:30 p.m. The beach and shag band Liquid Pleasure headlines the free outdoor Blast from the Past concert series at MOSAIC at Chatham Park.
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.
Philip H. Kohl MOSAIC Family Commons 457 Freedom Parkway Pittsboro
Deep Chatham Ramblers
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
MOSAIC at Chatham Park 367 Freedom Parkway Pittsboro
Blast from the Past Music Series: Liquid Pleasure
Teachers, are you looking for new opportunities to fund projects for your classroom?
7-8:30 p.m. The Pittsboro-based Americana and roots-rock band performs as part of the free Bynum Front Porch summer music series at the Historic Bynum General Store. Bynum Front Porch 950 Bynum Road Bynum
919-774-4900 800-446-7752
—
• Aleaha Renne Marr, 32, was arrested for driving while impaired.
Central Electric providing grants to local educators to fund innovative projects
—
Aug. 8
3-7 p.m. A community-wide wellness fair with health screenings and resources, held ahead of the evening’s Blast from the Past concert.
Aug. 4 • Jose Ernesto Rivas Baires, 48, was arrested for driving while impaired and no operator’s license.
79°West Community Health Fair
CEMCPower.com
A3
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Taylor Farms recalls jalapeno products over salmonella concerns The recall follows a lettuce recall from Taylor Farms issued weeks ago
ROCKY RIVER BAPTIST CHURCH 4436 Siler City Snow Camp Road Siler City
By Michelle Chapman The Associated Press TAYLOR FRESH FOODS, parent company of Taylor Farms, is voluntarily recalling some products that include jalapenos because of worries about a possible salmonella contamination. The announcement comes a few weeks after Taylor Farms voluntarily recalled its iceberg lettuce products sourced from central Mexico because of a potential link to a multistate cyclospora outbreak that has sickened people across the U.S. Taylor Fresh Foods said that it was pulling some products including jalapenos from store shelves after finding out that Coast Citrus Distributors was voluntarily recalling fresh jalapenos due to a potential salmonella contamination. Guacamole, pico de gallo and taco dip are some of the prepared foods included in the recall. The list of recalled products were distributed by Taylor Farms in multiple states with a “Best If Used By” date up to and including Aug. 16, 2026. The products were sold at stores including Kroger, Stop & Shop, Target, Whole
The Harvesters will be in concert with us on Sunday, Aug. 16 at 6 p.m. A love offering will be received. Invite your friends and neighbors for this time of worship through song!
SANDY BRANCH BAPTIST CHURCH 715 Sandy Branch Church Road Bear Creek GUILLERMO ARIAS / AP PHOTO
Taylor Farms boxes are loaded on a field in the town of Doctor Mora in Guanajuato, Mexico, in 2008. Foods, Trader Joe’s and Walmart. Taylor Fresh Foods said the Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were working with state and local partners to investigate illnesses in a multistate outbreak of salmonella infections linked to fresh jalapenos supplied by Coast Citrus Distributors. The company said a grower in Sinaloa, Mexico, a supplier to Coast Citrus Distributors, was identified as the potential source in the outbreak. Taylor Fresh Foods said it is no
longer sourcing products from the farmer and will be filling orders from alternative suppliers. The company is currently not aware of any reported illnesses linked to its products containing jalapenos. Consumers who have any recalled product are advised to discard it immediately and not eat it. Refunds are available at the location of purchase. Consumers with any questions can contact Taylor at 855-455-0098 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT.
More than 100 dead, buildings collapsed after 7.4 magnitude earthquake strikes Colombia The strongest earthquake to hit Colombia in a decade devastated western cities on Monday
Most powerful quake in last decade, authorities say Jorge Moncayo, a 64-year-old taxi driver in Cali, said he saw plumes of dust shoot up across the city as buildings collapsed. Residents and rescue workers were searching the rubble for survivors. “My entire house shook. I’ve never lived through such a powerful earthquake,” he said. “We’re thanking God we’re alive.” Colombia’s Geological Service said Monday it had been “the highest magnitude earthquake registered in Colombia
You are invited to Sandy Branch Church’s annual Homecoming Service on Aug. 16. Sunday School is at 10 a.m. and the Worship Service at 11 a.m., followed by a potluck lunch. Meats will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your favorite side dishes and desserts and stay for the good food and fellowship. The Rev. Matt Garrett, pastor of Moncure Baptist Church, will be our guest speaker. There will also be a Memorial Service remembering those lost since our 2025 Homecoming. We would love to have family, friends, neighbors, former members and inactive members join us.
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 Aug. 16 with a covered dish meal following the 10 a.m. service. We will host revival Monday, Aug. 17 through Wednesday, Aug. 19. 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.
ROBERTS CHAPEL MISSIONARY BAPTIST CHURCH 439 Roberts Chapel Church Road Goldston
By Manuel Rueda, Astrid Suárez and Megan Janetsky The Associated Press BOGOTA, Colombia — A powerful 7.4 magnitude earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, killing at least 111 people, trapping residents under debris of collapsed buildings and forcing people to evacuate their homes as far as the capital of Bogotá. The epicenter was in San Jose Del Palmar, a community of about 4,800 people in the Choco region about 250 miles west of Bogota, the U.S. Geological Survey and Colombia’s counterpart reported. The USGS said it struck at a depth of 66 miles. The quake also was felt in neighboring Ecuador and Panama, though minimal damage was reported there. Deaths were reported in Pereira, Manizales and in Valle del Cauca department, where Colombia’s third-biggest city, Cali, is located. At least three killed in Valle del Cauca were children, the governor said. The quake left cities across the west of the country — Pereira, Quibdo, Cali and Manizales — ravaged. A mix of residents and search teams picked through the rubble of collapsed buildings amid concerns by authorities of aftershocks. Colombia’s interior minister said more than 20 municipalities across the country had been hit.
Church News
Roberts Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, invites the community to celebrate its 150th Homecoming Anniversary on Sunday, Aug. 16 at 11 a.m. SANTIAGO SALDARRIAGA / AP PHOTO
Patients are evacuated from a hospital after an earthquake struck Cali, Colombia, on Monday. in the last decade” and it had been followed by two 2.8 and 4.8 magnitude aftershocks. Authorities also reported that flights were suspended in the airports of Manizales, Quibdo, Armenia, Cartago, Buenaventura and Pereira. The earthquakes left many in the Andean nation unnerved after two back-to-back quakes devastated neighboring Venezuela in late June, destroyed hundreds of buildings and killed more than 5,000 people. At the same time the quake brought down buildings in Colombia, desperate families in Venezuela continued to search the ruins for the bodies of their loved ones. In Pereira, photos and videos published by local media showed pieces of the airport ceiling falling down on travelers taking shelter and screaming, and people running through rubble in a panic. Pereira’s mayor, Mauricio Salazar, told a local radio station that at least 18 people had died and that many more were trapped under “a massive quantity of collapsed buildings.” In nearby Manizales, a city nestled in the coffee-producing mountains of Colombia, one of the towers of the neo-Gothic cathedral collapsed and fell on the nave. Jorge Eduardo Rojas, the mayor of Manizales, said two people had died in the city and asked residents to stay outside in case of aftershocks. Authorities in the rural state of Choco, the epicenter of the quake, reported injured peo-
ple and damaged buildings in the capital but provided few details. In Cali, a city of 2 million people, Mayor Alejandro Eder said that residents were trapped in at least 19 buildings that had collapsed.
Our Anniversary Revival will be held Monday, Aug. 17 and Tuesday, Aug. 18 at 7 p.m. nightly. We will conclude the celebration with our In-Person Refuel Wednesday Bible Study on Wednesday, Aug. 19 at 7 p.m. Everyone is warmly invited to join us for this special week of worship, fellowship and celebration as we thank God for 150 years of His faithfulness. Come and receive a special blessing!
Powerful quakes rare in Colombia; smaller quakes common Small earthquakes, known as “temblores,” are common in central and western Colombia, but those above 6.0 magnitude are rare. In 1999, a 6.2 magnitude quake near the city of Armenia, killed more than 1,100 people. Colombia’s newly inaugurated president, Abelardo de la Espriella, said Monday that he had personally taken charge of the government’s response to the emergency in San José del Palmar following the earthquake. “You are not alone. The state is present and taking action,” he said. Response to the earthquake presents the first major challenge to de la Espriella, a Trump ally who was sworn in as president over the weekend. Messages of support rolled in from leaders across the Americas, including Mexico, Brazil, Ecuador, El Salvador and the United States. A number of countries offered aid. “The Trump administration is closely monitoring the large earthquake that struck Colombia and stands ready to support the people of Colombia” and de la Espriella, wrote Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a post on X.
CURE FOR WORRY! Bible Study: Philippians 4:5-19 Church of Living Water; Servant: James Mitchell Peace, love, and joy to all our brothers and sisters. According to the signs of the times, it won’t be long before the Rapture. I pray all are ready. Believing prayer is our cure for worry! Think about how God has met our needs in the past, what He is doing at present, and what He shall do in the future. If we hold on to Jesus, then we shall have the peace of God. Let us cast out the worries that Satan tries to put into our minds. Think about how we are truly blessed! Praise God! Let’s learn how to be content in whatever state we’re in. God’s got it! We can do all things through Christ, according to His will. Sin not, but be sure to repent and confess our sins to our heavenly Father if we fail. God loves a humble heart! Don’t let a hard heart cause us to miss our blessings. God shall supply all our needs! Forgive me, Father, for letting fear and doubt come to my mind, in Jesus’ name.
A4
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | ANDREW TAYLOR-TROUTMAN
What poetry makes happen A poem might be written down or published, yet most of them pass into obscurity.
POETRY NIGHT at the Plant in Pittsboro happens on the second Wednesday of every month. The evening’s readers gather in the back room of the Fair Game Beverage Company along with audience members, many of whom have a drink in hand. The lineup includes experienced poets with several publications to their credit alongside beginners, some reading for the very first time. I’ve read a few poems over the years, but I mostly drink in the words of others. Joining me in the audience members are longtime Chatham County residents and recent transplants, county commissioners, farmers, neuroscientists and students. There are poems about climate change and the loss of a spouse, poems about howling at the moon and wondering what’s at the bottom of Jordan Lake. Various lines in the poems cause me to chuckle or sigh. Other poems bring tears to my eyes. Everyone in attendance applauds every reader. It is a brave thing to stand up and share a string of words that express your dreams, fears and hopes. W.H. Auden wrote that “poetry makes nothing happen.” The phrase seems like a koan or riddle, and I go back and forth about its meaning. On the one hand, a poem is “nothing” like a chair or a drink. Nor is a poem a piece of legislation or a legal document. A poem might be written down or published,
yet most of them pass into obscurity. If spoken, even to an attentive audience, most of the words are quickly forgotten. But the word “poem” is derived from the Greek verb for “to make.” A poem makes meaning from a personal experience. Such meaning might not be physically tangible, but it might bring peace to the poet. It might also move the listener to do something for the good of the world, however small. My friend Carl writes haiku. Before his reading, he described the short, three-lined form of Japanese poetry as a smooth stone that he can carry in his pocket. A haiku can be a comfort to him. But he added that a haiku can also be like a pebble in his shoe. Maybe poetry makes us stop and pay attention. Is that something after all? I know that poetry night at the Plant in Pittsboro happens on the second Wednesday of the month. Each poet opens a window and shares a little light by which we might see ourselves and the world around us. And when the reading is over, we shake hands or share hugs, and we are made into a community, maybe strangers never again. 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
What’s in a word? Could be plenty ... From time to time I have thought about how the two vocations in which I have spent most of my life rise and fall on words and their correct and appropriate usage.
THE GOOD FOLKS who listen to me in the morning from Sunday to Sunday — maybe “endure” would be a better word — know how I often speak of the importance of words and how we should strive to use the right one and how we should keep them soft and sweet because we never know when we might have to eat them and so on and so forth. The reality of words is that they’re about all we’ve got to convey thoughts and ideas and such, short of body language and action, not that those two aren’t important in how we get thoughts and ideas across. Anyway, from time to time I have thought about how the two vocations in which I have spent most of my life — journalism and pastoral ministry — both rise and fall on words and their correct and appropriate usage. In those two fields, the right word can be what saves the day, and the wrong one can be the kiss of death. Every profession, I know, has its quirks, failures and shortcomings. Doctors, I’ve heard it said, bury their mistakes, and lawyers send theirs off to jail. Writers and speakers, however, tend to put their bad moves out in the public domain for all the world to see forever. In short, if it makes it into print or film or tape or DVD, it’s there forever. I’ve had my share of them through the years. Once I did a piece for the local paper in which I lamented that much of our adult population still had trouble reading and writing and that the local community college had launched a program aimed at helping older folks (by definition, I guess, “nonteenagers”) improve themselves in those areas. Dutifully I did the story and then cast about for a headline and thought I’d prepared a good one when I set in type the words “Literacy still problem in Chatham” and then followed it up with a smaller headline underneath proclaiming “CCCC working against it.” I’m pretty sure about 5,000 copies of that paper were
printed before I got the chance to holler, “Stop the presses,” something I’d seen in movies and always wanted to do but did, I think, only this one time. During the years of preparing newspaper pages and church bulletins, there have been similar instances. Now they’re funny; at the time it wasn’t always that way. The curse isn’t limited to only me. Many, if not most or all, of the folks who put pen to paper or fingers to keyboard have tasted it. A dear little lady who for years reported the goings and comings of a certain community in the local media once proclaimed that a young lad of that community was off serving in Uncle Sam’s Navy on a vessel known as an LST (Landing Ship Tank — a big ol’ boy whose front drops down so the tank can crawl off). The writer reported that the young sailor, as part of his duties, “took a trip on LSD.” If it’s true misery loves company, and maybe laughs with it, a book I picked up some time ago, a collection of mistypes, has given me cause to know they’re everywhere. I especially enjoyed the one that said, “The Fulton County Humane Society is hosting their 4th annual beagle barbecue. Come on and join them in this unique event.” And the church newsletter item that read, “The church board of elders has called a special meeting today to decide what it did last week.” Bottom line is, at least we’re trying … So as a noted speaker and writer (me) said earlier, “Keep your words soft and sweet; you never know when you might have to eat them.” And don’t forget “please” and “thank you.” Especially in these hard times. Thank you. Bob Wachs is a native of Chatham County and emeritus editor at Chatham News & Record. He serves as pastor of Bear Creek Baptist Church.
BE IN TOUCH
Letters to the editor may be sent to letters@nsjonline.com or mailed to 1201 Edwards Mill Rd., Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27607. Letters must be signed; include the writer’s phone number, city and state; and be no longer than 300 words. Letters may be edited for style, length or clarity when necessary. Ideas for op-eds should be sent to opinion@nsjonline.com.
Contact a writer or columnist: connect@northstatejournal.com
A5
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
COLUMN | JAN HUTTON
COLUMN | LARRY ELDER
Is it faceplant time?
AI cannot give writers something to say
It took eons before this curious human finally understood the magic of smiles. As a response to smiles, our wise little brains release feel-good hormones.
’TIS TRUE. I’m still being supported by an eons-old smile, one that has stayed with me for a million years (give or take). What gives? Getting way ahead of myself. When younger, much younger, I was just chock full of judgments about the physical appearance of others. (Wincing, serious wincing.) My prism for seeing others allowed only a narrow view of what I considered attractive. (Face-plant time.) Now about that aforementioned smile. In my early 20s, I was employed at a research-based institution in my college town. Several floors above me worked an older woman. Embarrassing to say this now, but I experienced her as manifestly unattractive. To my immature and young eyes, this woman appeared to be what I’d call ugly. (Oh, thank God, we’re only young once.) Not withstanding my judgments about her appearance, I noticed this woman was always smiling. I mean, always. In the elevator, passing through my part of the building, smiling away. (She loved her work, maybe?) As a walker-every-place-I-went in those days, her home was about a block from my then-apartment. Schlepping past her house, perchance, she was outside, there was generally a smile playing on her face. Bolstered, but not knowing why, I suspect my feet slightly lifted off the ground, floating me on the way to my next destination. (It took eons before this curious human finally understood the magic of smiles. As a response to smiles, our wise little brains
release feel-good hormones. Feel-good hormones! In that long-ago psychedelic age, no one knew that getting high could be so cheap.) As time passed, I rarely noticed this woman’s actual appearance anymore (meaning the physical attributes of which I was so judgmental when first I saw her). Only her incandescent smile stood out, literally lifting me up. I no longer recollect what this woman looked like. I just don’t. All I remember is basking in her smile (realizing, later, I was experiencing smile-induced highs.) I never even learned her name! Ah, but there’s a coda to this long-ago life lesson. Occasionally, I wonder what my impacts are on a needy world. I’m not an Einstein or a warrior who leads the masses. Nope. Just me and my perceived small actions, like the practice of smiling. (Thanks, teach!) Good, ol’ Pete Seeger, the late folksinger, consistently, saves my guilty heart from self-judgment. Are minuscule actions (like smiling) truly impactful in our challenging world? “Our world will not be saved by massive grand gestures, but rather by millions of small, persistent efforts.” Go, feel-good hormones! Go, us! Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor.
COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH
The hard lesson for AIPAC
The message to other candidates is clear: AIPAC money comes with a price.
There are plenty of explanations for what happened in the Michigan Senate Democratic primary, where Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive, was declared the victor over Rep. Haley Stevens, a moderate, by a razor-thin margin of 1%. For starters, he was the outsider, a former public health official talking about the fundamental economic issues, while she was Sen. Chuck Schumer’s second choice (after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer) for the seat. He was, according to observers, the better communicator, the better orator, connecting on issues of affordability while she was expounding on her love for Michigan. He worked harder. He started campaigning well over a year ago and did some 500 public events against a candidate who stayed mostly out of the public eye and dodged tough questions. And the polls were wrong, as usual. The polls were projecting a double-digit ElSayed victory. That didn’t happen. It turned into a cliffhanger, and El-Sayed only won by a razor-thin margin. So in that sense, as is always true of very close races, anything could have made the difference. But there are certain facts coming out of Michigan that cannot be denied. Stevens was supported by some $60 million in outside money, including more than $30 million from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. That’s AIPAC, for short, the pro-Israel lobby that used to wield enormous clout in Washington and in national politics. Her extraordinary support from AIPAC became an issue in the campaign, as did her opponent’s stance on Israel. El-Sayed is the sort of candidate AIPAC exists to defeat. He believes that Israel committed genocide in Gaza. He has pledged to cut U.S. military aid to Israel. And,
according to The New York Times, he has said he does not believe Israel should exist as an explicitly Jewish state. Throughout the campaign, El-Sayed attacked Stevens for her pro-Israel position and said he hoped to go to Washington to influence policy on Israel, especially among the party’s 2028 hopefuls. AIPAC spent more money, according to the Times, trying to beat El-Sayed than any outside group has in a primary this year. They put more than $30 million on the scale and became a much-debated issue in the campaign for doing so. The message to other candidates is clear: AIPAC money comes with a price. Did it hurt Stevens more than it helped her? While apologists for AIPAC may spin that even with prevailing winds against them, they almost pulled it off, the fact of the matter is that they didn’t pull it off. They lost. A few years ago, there would have been no place in the Democratic Party for a candidate like El-Sayed. His views on Palestine would have been unacceptable. He would not have been given a speaking role at a convention. As I write this, the party is unifying behind him to give him a speaking and voting role in the U.S. Senate. As the polls have measured, accurately, public opinion on Israel has shifted dramatically, and negatively. Some of us continue, albeit with difficulty, to draw a line between our support for Israel and our opposition to its current government, but most people don’t. They don’t view Israel through the Holocaust-tinged glasses of my generation. We know this. AIPAC has to know this. The lesson of Michigan cannot be that they just needed a little more money. The message is not working. Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
PAUL SANCYA / AP PHOTO
Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate Abdul El-Sayed speaks at a rally last Friday in Detroit.
AFTER NEARLY 35 years as a talk show host, I’ve had many young broadcasters ask me, “What’s the secret?” My answer always surprises them because it’s so short. “Have something to say.” Most expect advice about Those voice, pacing, interview techniques, social media or experiences how to handle callers. Those are the bone things matter. But they’re secondary. If you don’t marrow from have an interesting idea, which ideas no amount of polish will keep an audience listening. are formed. The audience may admire your delivery for a while, but eventually it wants substance. It wants a reason to come back tomorrow. The same principle applies to writing. Someone once asked me, “What makes a good writer?” My answer was the same: “Having something to say.” Good grammar helps. A large vocabulary helps. A clever turn of phrase helps. But readers don’t return because of sentence structure. They return because the writer consistently offers an insight, an argument or an observation they had not considered before. The style attracts attention. The ideas keep it. That’s one reason the rise of artificial intelligence doesn’t worry me nearly as much as it worries some people. AI can make a sentence cleaner. It can tighten a paragraph. It can suggest a better headline, organize research and identify weaknesses in an argument. It can save a substantial amount of time in tracking down sources. Those are remarkable tools. But recently, a judge blasted an attorney whose legal brief cited cases that were either nonexistent or did not support the proposition for which they were cited. Blind and lazy reliance on AI was the likely culprit. But AI cannot live your life for you. It cannot accumulate your experiences, your failures, your successes, your conversations or your observations. Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed. AI can help you communicate an idea more effectively, but it cannot give you a lifetime from which original ideas are born. The same lesson appears in coaching. NFL coach Bum Phillips once paid Hall of Fame coach Don Shula perhaps the greatest compliment one coach has ever paid another: “He can take his’n and beat your’n. And your’n and beat his’n.” In other words, if Shula had the better team, he would beat you. But if you had the better team, he might beat you anyway. Phillips was saying that great coaches first maximize their advantages. Then, every so often, they overcome their disadvantages. When I practiced law, I came to a similar conclusion about trial lawyers. A good trial lawyer wins all the cases he should — and a few he shouldn’t. He doesn’t lose the cases he should win through poor preparation or weak advocacy. Then, once in a while, through judgment, preparation and persuasion, he wins a case the facts and the law suggest he would lose. The exceptional performer first masters the fundamentals. Only then can he elevate his craft. In broadcasting, they ask about microphones instead of ideas. In writing, they ask about style instead of substance. In coaching, they ask about strategy instead of talent. In law, they ask about courtroom theatrics instead of judgment. The essentials come first. Everything else is an enhancement. Technology can improve prose, summarize documents and organize research in seconds. Those advances are valuable, even remarkable, but none answers the question that matters most: What do you actually think? If you have nothing worth saying, technology won’t rescue you. If you do have something worth saying, technology becomes a force multiplier, enabling you to communicate more clearly and more efficiently. Despite all the technological changes during my career — from computers and the internet to radio and podcasts and now to artificial intelligence — the secret remains the same. It applies to writing a column, hosting a radio show, giving a speech or leading a meeting. People still hunger for fresh ideas, honest observations and genuine insight. They still appreciate someone who can make sense of confusing events or articulate what others struggle to say. After all these years behind a microphone, through changing technologies and changing media, my answer remains the same. Every profession has an indispensable first principle. Miss it, and no amount of technique will save you. Have something to say. Larry Elder is an author and nationally syndicated radio talk show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com.)
A6
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
obituaries
Malcom “Rick” Riggsbee Coleman Aug. 7, 2026 Malcom “Rick” Riggsbee Coleman, 71, went to be with his Lord and Savior on August 7, 2026.
He was born in Chatham County, to Malcom Edward Colman and Shirley Hope Coleman. Rick loved hunting, fishing and riding with his side-kick pup, Roxie. He is preceded in death by his father, Malcom Edward Coleman. He is survived by his wife of 30 years, Marti; his mother, Shirley Hope Coleman; his daughter, Michelle (Billy) Johnson; sons, Wes (Kristen) Coleman and Travis Coleman; his brother, Bryant (Karen) Coleman; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; five nieces; three great-nephews and six great-nieces. A Memorial Service will be held at 2:00PM, August 15th, 2026, at Smith & Buckner Chapel. The Reverend Jon Alan Reece will officiate services.
SPONSORED BY DONALDSON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY
396 West Pittsboro, NC 27312 | 919-542-3057 | www.donaldsonfunerals.com INSt., MEMORY
We offer an on-site crematory with many options of Celebration of Life services, Traditional, and Green Burials. Call us to set an appointment to come by and learn more.
THOMAS “TOMMY” EDWARD PICKARD SEPT. 15, 1951 – JULY 10, 2026 Thomas “Tommy” Edward Pickard, Jr., 74, of Rosewood, CA, passed away on Friday, July 10, 2026 in California. A graveside memorial was held on Thursday, August 6, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. at Rives Chapel Baptist Church with Pastor John Howard presiding. Tommy was born in Chatham County on September 15, 1951 to Thomas Edward Pickard, Sr. and Foy O’Briant Pickard. He served in the US Air Force and retired from the US Postal Service in Roseville, CA. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by one brother, one sister and two brothers- in-law. Tommy is survived by his children, Ryan Pickard, of Roseville, CA and Elena Pickard (Kevin Yonto), of CA; sisters, Diane McMasters (Jerry), of Asheboro, Kay Pickard Clark, of Goldson and Peggy P. Beavers, of Bear Creek; grandchildren, Kaia Yonto and Logan Yonto and a host of family and friends.
VERA ANN GOODWIN PARTIN AUG. 4, 2026 Vera Ann Goodwin Partin, age 86 of Chapel Hill, passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at the Duke HomeCare and Hospice Hock Family Pavilion in Durham. She was born in Chatham County, daughter of the late Norris Goodwin and Mozelle Wilson Goodwin. She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Ronald Wayne Partin and her granddaughter, Ashlyn Partin. Vera was a member of Mount Pisgah Baptist Church and retired after many years as a telephone operator with Southern Bell and GTE. She enjoyed a career in retail after retirement and loved to do word searches, crossword puzzles and ceramics. She is survived by her sons, Wayne Partin (Tammy) of Chapel Hill, NC and Billy Partin (Denise) of Silk Hope, NC; grandchildren, Austin Partin, Aaron Partin, Jason Partin and Alyssa Partin. A graveside funeral service was held on Friday, August 7, 2026 at 11am at the Mount Pisgah Baptist Church Cemetery with Rev. Randy Umberger officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requested memorial gifts be made to the Duke HomeCare and Hospice, Hock Family Pavilion, 4023 North Roxboro Street, Durham, NC 27704.
JAMES WATSON NORDAN JULY 31, 2026
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Chatham News & Record at obits@chathamnewsrecord.com
James Watson Nordan, age 93, of Pittsboro, passed away peacefully at his home on Friday, July 31st, surrounded by his loving family. Born in Harnett County, Watson was the son of the late Duncan James Nordan and Laylon Patterson Nordan. He was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 70 years, Kathleen Brown Nordan; his parents; his brother, Ernest Nordan; and his sisters, Theta Foushee, and infant sister Annie Laurie Nordan. Watson lived his faith with quiet strength and unwavering devotion. A dedicated ambassador for Jesus Christ, he reflected his beliefs in every aspect of his life. As a longtime member of Pittsboro United Methodist Church, he cherished his Adult Men’s Sunday School class and the fellowship of worship services. He found simple joy in tending to his yard, often seen mowing grass or gathering pinecones with his laundry basket and rope—an image his family will forever treasure. A gifted guitar player, Watson spent 18 years sharing gospel music with the musical group, Front Porch Ministries. Their music brought comfort, hope, and happiness to retirement centers, nursing homes, churches, and civic organizations throughout the community. Their ministry was a blessing to many and a source of immense joy for Watson. Watson is survived by his two loving daughters, Connie Cameron (Jeff) of Sanford and Kay Farrell of Chapel Hill. He was the proud “Papa” to four grandchildren—Ashley Punte (Mike), Duncan Adam Cameron (Jenn), Ace Farrell (Allison), and Skyler Mansfield (Nick)—and four greatgrandchildren: Loralii, Piper, Saylor, and Banks. He is also survived, by two sisters, Elaine O’Quinn of Lillington, and Elizabeth Thomas (Vernard) of Graham. His family was his greatest earthly blessing, and he loved each of them deeply.
Ben Jones, ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ actor and 2-term US House member, dies at 84 The N.C. native credited his iconic TV role with pulling him out of self-destruction By Jeffrey Collins The Associated Press
STEVE HELBER / AP PHOTO
Cooter, actor Ben Jones, sits atop one of the 229 hotrods, named the General Lee, used in the show “Dukes of Hazzard” as ecstatic fan, Aliceson Johnson, of Charlottesville, Virginia, sits in the driver’s seat in front of his store in Sperryville, Virginia, in 1999.
BEN JONES, who played the good ol’ boy mechanic in “The Dukes of Hazzard” TV series and parlayed his fame into a political career and two terms in the U.S. House, has died. He was 84. Jones had a heart attack in his home Sunday in Washington, Virginia, as he was waiting to watch his beloved Atlanta Braves play baseball, his wife said on social media. Rappahannock County Sheriff Connie Compton confirmed his death. Jones’ fame came from his role as Cooter Davenport, the mechanic who got the Duke boys out of jams as they tried to do the right thing and fight the corrupt Boss Hogg in the fictional Hazzard County, Georgia. After playing Cooter for all seven seasons of the series from 1979 to 1985, Jones turned to politics and was elected to the U.S. House from a district near Atlanta in 1988. The Democrat served two terms before he was redistricted out of the seat. Jones was born in North Carolina and in college got involved in acting and civil rights, he wrote in his autobiography “Redneck Boy in the Promised
Land: The Confessions of ‘Crazy Cooter.’” Acting took over his life. Jones performed in numerous stage productions and had a few minor TV and movie roles in Atlanta during the 1970s before his life-defining break came on a TV show Jones defended as a modern-day morality tale and a fine example of Southern values. For seven seasons, Jones was one of a small band of friends and family helping Bo and Luke Duke in “The Dukes of Hazzard.” The brothers were on probation for running moonshine and were constantly trying to clear their names and stop the crooked and powerful Boss Hogg from stealing or cheating. The Duke boys drove a modified 1969 Dodge Charger called the General Lee with a Confederate flag on its roof. Cooter owned “Cooter’s Garage” in the town square. Nearly every episode involved a car chase with jumps and stunts and a patrol car badly in need of repairs. Cooter was often on the CB radio in his pickup truck saying, “Breaker one, Breaker one. I might be crazy but I ain’t dumb. Crazy Cooter coming at you.” “The Dukes of Hazzard” was a hit for CBS, and its popularity never waned. It went into syndication and later became of prominent fixture on cable’s The Nashville Network. Jones also credited the series with pulling him out of a self-destructive, alcoholic life-
style that led to the failure of several marriages. “It was like being in a Beatles movie,” Jones said. “Our lives changed.” After “The Dukes of Hazzard,” Jones went into politics. He kept his aw-shucks personality but took the issues seriously. In his four years in Washington, Jones was known as a Democrat who could buck his party. He was liberal on social issues and conservative on economics. But even in politics, he made a splash. After losing in 1992 in his redrawn district, Jones ran for Congress again in 1994. He lost to Newt Gingrich in the elections that elevated the Republican to the Speaker’s Office. Jones would file an ethics complaint that Gingrich used tax-deductible donations to fund his partisan college course, leading to a House reprimand and Gingrich’s decision to leave the body. Jones always embraced his role as Cooter. After moving to Virginia, he would open at least three “Cooter’s” country stores in Nashville and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and near his home. They sold plenty of T-shirts, key chains and insulated tumblers and included Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia, including one of the 300 or so General Lee cars used and abused in the TV series. The show and Cooter lived on because it was funny, had plenty of action and car chases and had a good, family-friendly heart, Jones told the Richmond Times-Dispatch at a 2001 car show where he played in a band, signed autographs and met fans. “The show reflects the values of the heartland of America. The good guys always win,” Jones said.
A7
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
FOOD from page A1 visibility needed to enhance postmarket safety,” acting FDA Commissioner Kyle Diamantas told reporters Monday. The FDA will take comments on the proposal for 120 days. Government scrutiny of ultraprocessed food continues, but with few details In a separate move, the FDA said it completed work on the federal government’s first definition of ultraprocessed food but did not release any details or the proposed language. The agency said it has submitted the definition to the White House for further review. Health advocates consider an official definition of ultraprocessed food a key step toward bringing greater scrutiny to packaged foods that are blamed for multiple chronic health problems afflicting Americans. A government-backed definition could pave the way for more federal research and, eventually, possible labeling or other restrictions on processed foods. Neither of Monday’s announcements are likely to immediately impact American diets, which are packed with fats, sodium and sugar and are blamed for a host of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease. But both initiatives are considered top priorities for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who entered government vowing to crack down on artificial colors, additives and other ingredients.
Ultraprocessed foods are made using industrial processing and additives, colors, preservatives or other ingredients not found in home kitchens. The foods include sugary cereals, sodas, chips, frozen pizzas and other grocery items. Scientists have been working to define and classify processed foods for well over a decade. But sweeping definitions come with downsides. They can be often applied to foods like whole grain bread, yogurt and granola that are all highly processed but still considered nutritious. Some recent efforts to define ultraprocessed foods include carve-outs
for foods that meet nutrition standards despite having processed ingredients. FDA proposal would bring new insights on additives used by food companies In the U.S., an estimated 10,000 additives are allowed in food, including thickeners, preservatives and packaging ingredients. Consumer advocates have long argued that many of those ingredients have never been properly vetted because of the FDA’s policy allowing manufacturers to certify for themselves
!ƏǼƺȇƳƏȸ IȒȸ áƺƺǸ Ȓǔ ɖǕɖɀɎ ٮוɖǕɖɀɎ א F_jjiXehe 9[dj[h <eh 7Yj_l[ B_l_d] Jk[iZWo
ŋŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ yòď á ò²Ĩ òê²ÏďÏòêÏêÅ Ō ŤèŤ Ŵ Ì Ïă òÅ ď Ì ďÌ è .ăòġ¹ òèèĕêÏďĨ ¹êď¹ă ŌŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ òè¹êžć òêġ¹ăć ďÏòê .ăòĕÿũ yăÏÿ ďò S Qĕć¹ĕè òà S ďĕă á q¬Ï¹ê¬¹ć ńŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ qďăòêÅ ƴ ,Ïď ńń ŤèŤ Ŵ ÏêÅò ĢÏďÌ Q㍠"² ń ÿŤèŤ Ŵ Q ÌÛòêÅũ y ªá¹ y¹êêÏć ņ ÿŤèŤ Ŵ ă¹ÅÏġ¹ă qĕÿÿòăď .ăòĕÿ
ŋŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ lÏ.òêÅ Ō ŤèŤ Ŵ Q¹êžć òêġò .ăòĕÿ ńŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ Ì Ïă ĕèª .òá²ũ òò²¬ ăġ¹ăć ńŃŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ .Ĩè \ăϹêď ďÏòêũ yăÏÿ ďò m á¹ÏÅÌ , ăè¹ăć Q ăÞ¹ď ńń ŤèŤ Ŵ QĕćϬ ªĨ S¹ÏÅ̪òăć ņ ńńŝńň ŤèŤ Ŵ ¹ÏÅÌď Q ¬ÌÏê¹ \ăϹêď ďÏòê ń ÿŤèŤ Ŵ mĕèèÏÞĕªŞ ăďÌăÏďÏć ,òĕê² ďÏòê "ħ¹ă¬Ïć¹ Ņ ÿŤèŤ Ŵ ĕèª .òá² ņ ÿŤèŤ Ŵ ꬹ ĢÏďÌ E mϬÞ
J^khiZWo
<h_ZWo
ŋŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ lÏ.òêÅ ńŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ 6òòÞć ƴ S¹¹²á¹ćũ ă²Ïò ăĕèèÏêÅũ áè ăď yăÏÿ ńŃŝŇň ŤèŤ Ŵ Ì ďÌ è òĕêďĨ 6ÏćďòăĨ iă¹ć¹êď ďÏòê Sòòê Ŵ iÏêò¬Ìá¹ ń ÿŤèŤ Ŵ mĕèèÏÞĕª ńŝņŃ ÿŤèŤ Ŵ IÏê¹ ê¬ÏêÅ Ň ÿŤèŤ Ŵ qò¬Þ 6òÿ ꬹ
M[Zd[iZWo ŋŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ òă¹Ş qďă¹êÅďÌ ƴ qďă¹ď¬Ì ńŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ Ì Ïă òÅ ĢÏďÌ IÏĮũ qÌĕÃÃṪò ă² iă ¬ďϬ¹ ńŃŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ .¹ăè ê òêġ¹ăć ďÏòê Iĕê¬Ì ńń ŤèŤ Ŵ òÃù¹ ƴ . è¹ć ĢÏďÌ q̹ăÏÃÞć \ÃÃϬ¹ũ y̹ Ìòć¹ê ń ÿŤèŤ Ŵ qÿ ²¹ćũ ¹ ²ÏêÅ áĕª
ŋŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ 699y "ħ¹ă¬Ïć¹ć ńŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ qďăòêÅ ƴ ,Ïď ńŃŝŇň ŤèŤ Ŵ qÿ êÏćÌ òêġ¹ăć ďÏòê Iĕê¬Ì ńń ŤèŤ Ŵ .ă ď¹Ãĕá 6¹ ăďć i¹ăÃòăè ꬹ ń ÿŤèŤ Ŵ "ĕ¬Ìă¹ũ y ªá¹ y¹êêÏć
I_b[h 9_jo 9[dj[h \eh 7Yj_l[ B_l_d] CedZWo
Jk[iZWo
Ō ŤèŤ Ŵ qďăòêÅ ƴ ,Ïď ńŃŝńň ŤèŤ Ŵ òÃù¹ áĕď¬Ì ď Ì ďÌ è m ªªÏď ńŃŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ ă²Ïò ăĕèèÏêÅũ SĕďăÏďÏòê "²ĕ¬ ďÏòê ĢÏďÌ I ĕă 6¹ ăê ńńŝńň ŤèŤ Ŵ òăêÌòá¹ Ņ ÿŤèŤ Ŵ qďă¹êÅďÌ ƴ yòê¹ ņ ÿŤèŤ Ŵ òÅ ĢÏďÌ y¹¹ê
ŋŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ ϪṠqďĕ²Ĩ ńŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ áòò² iă¹ććĕă¹ćũ QĕćϬ E è q¹ććÏòêũ IϪă ăÏ ê òăê¹ă ĢÏďÌ Ì ďÌ è òĕêďĨ IϪă ăϹć ńŃŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ Ì Ïă "ħ¹ă¬Ïć¹ć
J^khiZWo Ō ŤèŤ Ŵ Q¹êžć òÃù¹Ş ĕèª ŌŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ ĕèª .òá² ńŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ ăò¬Ì¹ď òăÞćÌòÿũ QĕćϬ E è q¹ććÏòêũ yăÏÿ ďò áè ăď ńŃŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ Ì Ïă "ħ¹ă¬Ïć¹ć ńń ŤèŤ Ŵ qďòăϹć ĢÏďÌ S¹ăÏ Ì ńŅŝņŃ ÿŤèŤ Ŵ ,Ïê² òĕă òϬ¹ ńŅŝŇň ÿŤèŤ Ŵ IÏê¹ ê¬ÏêÅ ń ÿŤèŤ Ŵ òòÞ áĕª Ņ ÿŤèŤ Ŵ qďă¹êÅďÌ ƴ yòê¹ ņ ÿŤèŤ Ŵ yÌĕăć² Ĩ qò¬Ï á
Rule change in 1990s created so-called loophole Any substance intentionally added to food is supposed to undergo formal review — unless the additive is considered safe. Since the late 1950s, the government recognized that many common ingredients in foods, such as spices and vinegar, were widely consumed and understood to be safe for consumption. The FDA policed the GRAS exemption for years, but it took time and resources. Starting in 1997, the FDA began allowing companies to independently determine that a new additive is safe based on publicly available scientific evidence and the consensus of qualified experts. However, the list of products deemed GRAS by companies grew to include many synthetic and natural additives, all incorporated into the food supply without independent review. The process has created a “secret GRAS loophole,” according to the consumer advocacy group Center for Science in the Public Interest, that “undermines the integrity of our food safety system.” Food industry officials contend their internal reviews of additives are as rigorous as the FDA’s own processes.
JACQUELYN MARTIN / AP PHOTO
!ǝƏɎǝƏȅ !ȒɖȇɎɵ ǕǣȇǕ ³ƺȸɮǣƬƺɀ CedZWo
FDA would be expected to review new ingredient submission within 180 days. If FDA regulators have safety concerns, they could request additional information from manufacturers or request that they delay introducing the ingredient.
President Donald Trump speaks as Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. listens during a meeting to sign an executive order about vaccines last Monday, in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C.
<h_ZWo ŋ ŤèŤ Ŵ lĕÏáďÏêÅ Ō ŤèŤ Ŵ òÅ ĢÏďÌ Q ăÏ ũ iòááÏê ďòă òĕêď ńŃŝńň ŤèŤ Ŵ qďăòêÅ ƴ ,Ïď ńŃŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ ÏêÅò ĢÏďÌ "² Sòòê Ŵ iϬÞṪ áá ƴ òăêÌòá¹ũ yăÏÿ ďò 6òè¹á ê² ă¹ è¹ăĨ Ŋ ÿŤèŤ Ŵ ,ăϲ Ĩ SÏÅÌď ꬹ
that new additives are “generally recognized as safe,” or GRAS. The FDA’s Diamantas stressed Monday that the new policy would not require all new ingredients to undergo FDA review. He said that type of mandatory review would need to be enacted by Congress in order to rewrite FDA’s authority over the food supply. “What we’re doing is requiring companies that utilize the pathway to notify us of their conclusions so that we have greater visibility into those conclusions and consumers have awareness,” Diamantas said. Under the proposal, the
PROJECTS from page A1 “Our choice is between what is on the table and then something less should we not approve,” said Commissioner Karen Howard. “So what is on the table right now is conditions. To stand on principle at this juncture and then potentially end up with a development that does not include those conditions does not leave us in a better position.” The board also held a public hearing for a request by Fearrington Property Development for the rezoning of seven parcels of property, totaling around 372 acres located off of Andrews Store Road, Parker Herndon Road and Morris Road, to go from a residential zoning to a conditional district compact community zoning. The item had been previously presented to the board, detailing a development (Fearrington Preserve) that would have around 600 residential units split between single-family detached buildings, townhomes and two-story condos, as well as commercial and event space. In addition, the development would include around 190 acres of natural open space and 77 acres of managed open space. Previously, the project had been tabled due to the commissioners desiring additional information on multiple aspects of the project, including the affordable housing plan, commercial space and traffic.
“Our choice is between what is on the table and then something less should we not approve.” Commissioner Karen Howard
“Our department, along with other county departments, were charged with coming up with a list of questions and concerns that we felt were still not answered, and we did that and the applicants worked very hard to get that done and answered,” said Zoning Administrator Angela Plummer. Some of the changes to the project included the addition of a full-service amenity on the north side of the development, the expansion of affordable housing to 72 units (up from 36), relocation of the commercial area to the west and near a transit stop, the addition of two roundabouts at drive access points. While no action was taken by the commissioners, the item will be heard by the planning board Sept. 1. The board had a general use rezoning request for just under 300 acres of property located off of Christian Chapel Church Road to be rezoned Heavy Industrial on the agenda, but the item was also tabled till next month’s meeting. The Chatham County Board of Commissioners will next meet Aug. 17.
M[Zd[iZWo ŋ ŤèŤ Ŵ Sòòê Ŵ \ÿ¹ê qďĕ²Ïò Ō ŤèŤ Ŵ qďăòêÅ ƴ ,Ïď ńŃŝņŃ ŤèŤ Ŵ ă²Ïò ăĕèèÏêÅũ ,Ïă¹ q ùďĨ ĢÏďÌ qÏá¹ă ÏďĨ ,Ïă¹ ¹ÿ ăďè¹êď ńŅŝņŃ ÿŤèŤ Ŵ ă Ãď á ćć ń ÿŤèŤ Ŵ iϬÞṪ áá ƴ òăêÌòá¹ũ ÌăòêϬ i Ïê q¹áÃŴQ ê Źè¹êď òăÞćÌòÿ
S¬ääÝ ËÙË Åä Ù £ËÙ ä¬ô ;¬ô¬Å¤ ėĚę )¬¤©õ û Ĝě BËÙä© S¬ääÝ ËÙËƤ B ĖěėĕĖ ĝĕĝƴęĘĖƴĘęĕĖ Z¬¾ Ù ¬äû Åä Ù £ËÙ ä¬ô ;¬ô¬Å¤ ĕĕĖ q¬¾¾ ¤ ; » VË Z¬¾ Ù ¬äûƤ B ĖěėĘĘ ĝĕĝƴěĘĖƴėĝěę
Share with your community! ••• Send your birth, death, marriage, graduation and other announcements to community@ chathamnewsrecord.com. ••• Weekly deadline is Monday at noon.
A8
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
CLASSIFIED ADS
REAL ESTATE
AUCTIONS
FOR SALE
LEARN ABOUT LAND - Chatham Land Experts, www.learnaboutland.com - 919-362-6999. JY2,tfnc
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
Chatham Memorial Park-2 plots available, Section 8, Lot 48, space C & D, $2,500 for both. Contact Chris 336-689-6618 4tc
FOR RENT FOR RENT – 2BDR/1BA MOBILE HOME FOR RENT IN Bonlee Elementary and Chatham Central High School District – No Pets – No Smoking Call 919-548-1332 and leave a message. 2tc
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
PETS 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
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 2tp
YARD SALE
Yard Sale at 4215 Alston Bridge Road, Siler City – Aug.14th 8:00am until, Aug.15th, 7:00am – 11:00am. Lots of Household items, Clothes and much more! 1tp
LETT’S TREE SERVICE - tree removal, stump grinding, lot clearing. Visa & Master Card accepted. Timber. Free estimates. 919-258-3594. N9,tfnc
APARTMENTS
Now accepting applications for 2BR, 1.5BA
Range, refrigerator, dishwasher are included in the rent. Rent starts at $630 and up. 400 Honeysuckle Dr., Pittsboro, NC 27312 919-542-5410 TDD 1-800-735-2962 Email: pittsborovillage@ECCMGT.com EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITIES
Email ads@ chathamnr.com to submit JSHZZPÄLK HKZ
ĭȦȦΈ͋̓͋З͋͋͋З͉̓͊ͅΈʯɣΈʣƔǨƢƛʿȦƢΈ̋ɣʿʋΈǑʋƢƢΈʉʿɣʯƢΗ
Dental Insurance Get the dental care you deserve with dental insurance from Physicians Mutual Insurance Company. It can help cover the services you’re most likely to use –
Cleanings
X-rays
Fillings
Crowns
Dentures
Preventive care starts right away Helps cover over 350 services Go to any dentist you want – but save more with one in our network
Call today for all the details.
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.
A Legislative public hearing requested by Candace Beal for a General Use Rezoning to rezone parcel 4794 from CB-Community Business to R1Residential, on 4.089 acres, located at 82 Bonlee Bennett Rd. Here’s the information you requested on Dental insurance
dental50plus.com/chatham
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.
Legislative Request:
844-903-1784
Information Kit!
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The purpose of the Public Hearing is to receive input, both written and oral, on the issues listed below.
No deductible, no annual maximum
Call now to get this FREE
TAKE NOTICE
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.
FIRST-CLASS MAIL
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.
O
O
Product not available in all states. Includes the Participating Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-888-7994433 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN). Rider kinds B438/B439. 6154-0120
A public hearing requested by the Chatham County Board of Commissioners for text amendments to
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.
A9
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
TAKE NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
22E000082-180 NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY The undersigned, Rochelle Bryarley, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Brandon Wade Bryarley deceased, late of Chatham County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the day of November 11, 2026 or this notice will be plead in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 13th day of August 2026. Rochelle Bryarley Administrator Marie H. Hopper Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post Office Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312
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
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
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#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
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 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, CO-EXECUTORS 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 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 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY 26E000465-180 The undersigned, Angela Lenetta Horton aka Angela Horton Sheffield, having been appointed as Executor of the Estate of Hazel Newby Horton, aka Hazel Marie Horton, Deceased, late of Guilford County, North Carolina, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the Estate to present such claims to the undersigned in care of the undersigned’s Attorney at their address on or before, November 13, 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 abovenamed Executor. This the 13th day of August, 2026. Angela Lenetta Horton aka Angela Horton Sheffield, Administrator Estate of Hazel Newby Horton, aka Hazel Marie Horton Justin N. Plummer, Esq. Law Offices of Cheryl David 528 College Rd. Greensboro, NC 27410 Phone No.: (336) 547-9999 Fax No.: (336) 547-9477 Run Dates: August 13, August 20, August 27, September 3, 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
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 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 TO CREDITORS 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.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000468-180 The undersigned, CAROL JOHNSON, having qualified on the 6TH Day of AUGUST 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of JESSE JAMES MCCRIMMON, 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 13TH 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 13TH Day of AUGUST 2026. CAROL JOHNSON, EXECUTOR 1486 MITCHELL CHAPEL RD. PITTSBORO, NC 27312 Run dates: A13,20,27,S3p
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 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
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
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
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
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#26E000463-180 The undersigned, DARLENE A. BRISTOW, having qualified on the 5TH Day of AUGUST 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of RV ANDERS, 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 13TH 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 13TH Day of AUGUST 2026. DARLENE A. BRISTOW, EXECUTOR 4711 EDINBOROUGH ROAD GREENSBORO, NC 27406 Run dates: A13,20,27,S3p
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
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE TO CREDITORS 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
NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E00074-180 The undersigned, ISAIAH BUTLER, having qualified on the 5TH Day of AUGUST 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of LOIS BUTLER aka ANNIE LOIS BUTLER, 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 13TH 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 13TH Day of AUGUST 2026. ISAIAH BUTLER, ADMINISTRATOR 601 BILLY FITTS ROAD SILER CITY, NC 27344 Run dates: A13,20,27,S3p
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 above-named 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
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
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
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
CHATHAM COUNTY BOARD OF HEALTH PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE The Chatham County Board of Health will conduct a public hearing in accordance with G.S. § 130A-39 on Monday, August 24, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at 80 East St, Pittsboro, NC to consider a request to amend the Rules for the Construction, Repair and Abandonment of Wells in Chatham County effective August 24, 2026. The proposed changes to the rules are to ensure compliance with G.S. § 87-97, as amended by Session Law 2026-32. Persons who would like to request a copy of the proposed rule or who have questions may contact Board Clerk Danielle White at 919-545-8391, Danielle.white@chathamcountync. gov. Those wishing to speak may sign up or submit written comments to the Board Clerk via email.
A10
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
2 appointed to state Lottery Commission Bryan Starnes was installed as chair, and Jason Poole was named a member of the board By Jessica Taylor For Chatham News & Record RALEIGH — Two appointments were made to the North Carolina Lottery Commission last week. Bryan Starnes was appointed as chair of the Lottery Commission by state Treasurer Brad Briner. Starnes will begin his five-year term Sept. 1 and will replace Ripley Rand, who has served as chair since December 2022. “The Lottery Commission oversees an enterprise that generates billions of dollars each year for the people of North Carolina, and that responsibility demands exceptional leadership,” said Briner in the press release. “Bryan Starnes has spent his career earning the trust of businesses, employees and stakeholders by demonstrating financial expertise, strong judgment and unwavering integrity. “He is exactly the kind of qualified leader North Carolinians deserve in this important role, and I am confident he will help ensure the Lottery Commission operates with accountability, transparency and sound stewardship,” said Briner. Starnes has worked for nearly four decades in accounting, finance and executive leader-
MAHA from page A1 November’s midterm elections. Jayme Franklin, a 28-year-old conservative activist who appeared with the president to promote his executive order on Monday, said she thinks the action is “going to go a long way” for MAHA mom voters like herself. But Shaughnessy Naughton, president of the left-leaning political action committee 314 Action, which aims to elect doctors to office, said she sees the order as “one more data point” in support of Democrats’ cause. “Our organization and our candidates are certainly going to hammer that message home — that if you want healthcare that’s accessible and affordable, if you want medical advice that is science-based, we need to have accountability in Washington,” she said. Trump long called for shots spread out in separate visits Trump’s doubt in the number and cadence of vaccines dates back at least to 2014, when he posted to social media the disproven claim that combination shots can cause autism and said if he were president he would spread them out. While he’s since shown pride in his first-term Operation Warp Speed effort to disseminate COVID-19 vaccines quickly and praised certain other shots like the polio vaccine, he
COURTESY TRP SUMNER
Jason Poole
COURTESY N.C. STATE TREASURER
Bryan Starnes
ed financial professional with a strong record of leadership and service to North Carolina,” said Boliek in the press release. “His expertise in accounting, governance, and fiscal oversight will be a solid asset to the North Carolina State Lottery Commission.” Poole is a certified public accountant and chartered global management accountant who has worked with businesses across North Carolina in accounting, financial reporting, management consulting, auditing and tax for more than two decades. Poole has served as a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, board member of the North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants (NCACPA), chairman of the East Carolina University Board of Trustees, chair of the NCACPA Advocacy Advisory Council and president of the NCACPA Foundation. “I am honored to be appointed by State Auditor Boliek to serve on the North Carolina State Lottery Commission,” said Poole. “I look forward to working with my fellow commissioners to uphold public trust and ensure there is accountability in gaming in North Carolina.” The Lottery Commission oversees the operation of the North Carolina Education Lottery to ensure integrity, transparency and accountability. The lottery supports education programs across the state.
ship as a certified public accountant. He began his career at Deloitte & Touche before becoming a controller for a North Carolina furniture manufacturer. In 1992, he worked as a partner at Martin Starnes & Associates, where he grew the firm into a respected accounting practice until 2011. In 2012, Starnes worked his way up from asset manager to chief accounting officer at Meridian Senior Living. Since 2013, he has worked as the chief financial officer at ALG Senior, a senior housing management and consulting company. Starnes has overseen billions of dollars in assets and transactions and built a reputation for accountability and
strong financial oversight. As chief financial officer at ALG Senior, Starnes handled accounting, finance, risk management, human resources and policy advocacy for organizations managing more than 100 senior living communities across the nation. Starnes has been married to his wife, Sandy, for 40 years, and has three children and nine grandchildren. Starnes’ appointment is the first time the state treasurer has been authorized to appoint the chair of the Lottery Commission. The change was made by the North Carolina General Assembly in the yearly state budget. Alongside Starnes, Robert “Jason” Poole was appointed by State Auditor Dave Boliek to
also has repeatedly called for reforming the childhood vaccine schedule. While his administration released an assessment comparing U.S. childhood vaccine schedules to peer nations’, several of his suggestions have come without any new scientific evidence. “This is based on what I feel,” Trump said last September when he called for splitting the measles, mumps and rubella, or MMR, vaccine into three single-disease vaccines. On Monday, he again pushed for separating the MMR shot into three, ordering the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to work on developing that option for children, since it doesn’t currently exist in the United States. Public health experts have warned that spacing out shots could increase the risk of infection with a vaccine-preventable disease before a child returns for the next visit.
view the economy as a top issue they care about. “Nothing in America matters more than affordability,” pollster Frank Luntz said. “And anytime the administration or Republicans goes off affordability, they’re not talking about what Americans really care about.” Whit Ayres, a Republican pollster, said with most Americans viewing vaccines positively, Trump’s announcement “does not strike me as the most persuasive political message.” Recent polling from the healthcare research nonprofit KFF suggests that even among MAHA supporters, only 10% rank reevaluating vaccine safety as their top priority for the federal government. Higher-ranking priorities included lowering health costs (42%) and restricting chemical additives in the food supply (21%).
Trump’s views have aligned him with Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime anti-vaccine activist before he entered politics. The president credits Kennedy’s diverse coalition of MAHA followers — whose priorities range from regulating pesticides to ending vaccine mandates — with helping him win back the White House in 2024.
Even as the Trump administration has handed several wins to the MAHA coalition, including changing the federal dietary guidelines and loosening restrictions on peptides, some in the movement have grown impatient as their other priorities remain unfinished. It’s unclear whether Trump’s action to loosen vaccine recommendations, an issue some MAHA supporters are passionate about, will be enough to shore up those voters ahead of the midterms. Franklin, who runs a conservative magazine, said she had talked with Trump about making vaccine recommendations more flexible at a MAHA roundtable earlier this year. She was pleased when the administration informed her that her requests were coming true. “I think it just really shows he loves to hear from everyday Americans on how his policies and his administration affect the lives of people who are raising kids in this country,” she said. But political strategists and Trump’s own pollster Tony Fabrizio have warned that efforts to shave down vaccine recommendations may not matter much to most voters this fall. Polls show most Americans believe children should be vaccinated to attend school, though Republicans are less likely to see vaccines as important. And as rising prices on things like groceries, gas and healthcare tighten Americans’ budgets, many
Asked about the timing of the order with the midterms approaching, a White House official who insisted on anonymity to brief reporters said that the move was a longstanding presidential priority and that other health issues voters care about were still being addressed. To that effect, on the day Trump signed the order, the Food and Drug Administration announced an effort to require more transparency from food manufacturers about new ingre-
dients or additives in foods — something many in the MAHA movement had been calling for. The administration has also touted its efforts to lower drug prices and crack down on federal health program fraud, which it argues will save taxpayers money. Still, Democratic candidates, including doctors linked to Naughton’s group 314 Action, seized on Trump’s order in messages to voters this week. Dr. Richard Pan, a physician running as a Democrat for the U.S. House in Northern California, reposted the American Medical Association’s condemnation of Trump’s vaccine falsehoods, among other fact checks. He told The Associated Press he thinks voters are deciding between electing people who choose not to hold the administration accountable and those who “stand for the science.” Dr. Annie Andrews, a pediatrician and Democrat running for the U.S. Senate in South Carolina, pleaded with voters not to take health information from Trump in a video posted on Instagram in collaboration with the left-leaning Courier Newsroom. “Do whatever you can to help elect scientists up and down the ballot in November, including sending me to the U.S. Senate,” she said to the camera. “I cannot think of a more urgent time for us to have a pediatrician in the room where these conversations are happening.”
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
Most Americans don’t see reevaluating vaccine safety as top issue
“The Lottery Commission oversees an enterprise that generates billions of dollars each year for the people of North Carolina, and that responsibility demands exceptional leadership.” Brad Briner, state treasurer serve on the Lottery Commission. His appointment comes due to a recent state law allowing the state auditor to appoint one of the nine members of the commission. “Jason Poole is a respect-
Democrats seizing on Trump’s message
TAKE 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 of Trust, upon death of the Borrower/Grantor,
CHATHAM SPORTS
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Seaforth’s offensive line gets ready to snap the ball and move some defensive players.
Linemen pay price for success with selfless work ethic No football team can win big without efficient work by its unsung heroes
By Michael Jaenicke Chatham News & Record FORMER LINEMAN and current high school head coach Tim Grady frequently tells his running backs, “Go ahead and try to do it without an O-line.” Another assistant coach in the state, Jeremy Joyner, takes the duties and responsibilities
a step further, coming short of calling linemen “Protectors of the Universe.” “It’s the only job in sports that the sole responsibility is to protect everyone else,” Joyner said. Assistant coach and ex-lineman Brad Rhodes says linemen, “must be selfless individuals.” In other words, it’s all guts and little personal glory. That is just part of what makes linemen special. And before this goes further, let’s dismiss the thought that linemen are just fat and lazy players. It’s as far from the truth as it
can be, says Jacksonville offensive coordinator Pat Byrd, who said “linemen are the smartest players on the team.” Part of that is because linemen are more into the mental aspect of the game than meets the surface. Playbook proficient players Most coaches agree that linemen must not just know what to do during a given play but also know the roles of every other player on his side of the ball while reading the tendencies and focus of a defense.
“Because of that, we tend to make our assignments and calls as simple as possible for them,” Rhodes said. And linemen must be physically prepared. “They must be in shape, and weight training is also mandatory,” Grady said. “They carry 50 more pounds (than other players), and we ask them to go nearly every down on both sides of the ball all night long. You have to be conditioned to take that kind of hitting and running. It takes its toll after two or three quarters.” And size is not the final word
on a player. In fact, there’s more technique than most fans can imagine. “It’s much more than just running,” Joyner said. “You have to know the fundamentals. If not, you will get beat often by someone you should beat nearly every time. It’s about good footwork and knowing what you are doing. Big bodies fall when players don’t have the fundamentals down. “But think about it. Every play you are delivering punishment, and that’s a lot over the course of a game.” Unity, solidarity in trenches Linemen must also be a unit of brothers. “Five guys, at least, must be on one accord,” Grady said. “The successful ones look at how a defense is denting us instead See LINEMEN, page B2
Football prepares for season with scrimmages A look at where county teams will be participating as jamboree season picks up GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Northwood and Chatham Central players and coaches pose for a mixed group photo after the season opener.
Volleyball season opens in Chatham Northwood and Woods Charter open with wins Chatham News & Record THE 2026-27 high school sports season officially started Monday. Several county teams hit the volleyball court to get the action going, with soccer set to begin later this week. Meanwhile, football practice is transitioning into preseason scrimmages. Chatham Central and Northwood opened with a clash between county schools. Northwood got the better of the
meeting, taking a 3-1 win over the Bears. They’ll meet again in exactly a week as Northwood heads to Chatham to finish off the home-and-home series. In the meantime, Northwood has another county rivalry with Seaforth coming to town. The Chargers finish a busy opening week with a home match against Lee County. Chatham Central will try to get its first win as it hosts Chatham Charter this week. Charter is also seeking its first win after dropping a 3-1 opener to Providence Grove. The Knights won their first set
of the season, 28-26, then lost the next three to Providence Grove, 27-25, 25-12 and 25-12. Charter heads to Central and then hosts J-M this week before returning the visit from Providence Grove next week to complete the home and home. Seaforth didn’t play on opening day and will have its home opener later this week against Apex Friendship following its road match with Northwood. They head to Cardinal Gibbons to open next week’s slate. Jordan-Matthews opened its season with a straight-set loss to Lee County, 25-13, 25-10 and 25-9, and heads to Chatham Charter later this week. It opens next week at home against Central Carolina Academy. Woods Charter opened its season with a straight-set win over Discovery Charter, 25-5, 25-12 and 25-13. The Wolves host Cummings and Research Triangle later this week.
Chatham News & Record FOOTBALL SEASON doesn’t begin until Aug. 21, but teams are giving fans a first glimpse as they participate in jamborees and scrimmages around the area. Seaforth was one of the first to hit the field as the Hawks scrimmaged against Willow Spring late last week. Things pick up Friday as just
about every area team will be in action. Jordan-Matthews will participate in the Triad Kickoff Classic, scrimmaging East Davidson in the 10-team event. Meanwhile, Northwood will host 10 teams, including Chatham Central, at the annual Jack Shaner Jamboree. Other teams participating in the event, which honors the former coach, includes Southern Lee, Southern Alamance, Orange, Carrboro, Graham, Apex, Providence Grove and Trinity Fayetteville. Tickets are $11. Seaforth will also be in action against Harnett Central. Seaforth huddles up during its scrimmage against Willow Spring.
COURTESY @SEAFORTHFOOTBALL / INSTAGRAM
B2
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Max Hinchman
LINEMEN from page B1 of it’s nothing but raw strength and want-to.” Smaller schools usually have smaller than average linemen (5-foot-9 to 6-foot-1 and 185 to 225 pounds) but often run the ball effectively against much larger lines. Bigger classifications require more height and beef (6-1 to 6-3 and 250 to 300 and more pounds). That’s normally the size colleges expect from incoming players. Last year, Jordan-Matthews had one player listed above 300 pounds and two more at 295. Four Seaforth players are listed above 250 on this year’s team. They are 4A and 5A, respectively. Meanwhile, 8A schools in the Triangle area like Durham Jordan and Raleigh’s Leesville Road can start players that size at all five spots on the line, with plenty more ready to step in as subs. Linemen make or break a
“Big bodies fall when players don’t have the fundamentals down.” Jeremy Joyner team, and they often carry the spirit of a team. “It’s not about glory because no one is tracking pancake blocks,” Rhodes said. “If an NFL defensive player makes one sack a game, he’s going to be an All-Pro. But if an offensive lineman gives up even a few sacks, he’s going to be dropped.” There’s a brotherhood of linemen. “It’s a blue-collar job, and here we don’t have to sell them on it because they humbly work for the team,” Grady said. “It’s a very humbling role, so having the right players there and having them play together is what it’s all about.” Joyner agrees.
“They’re really some of the best kids to coach because it’s not about them,” he said. “It’s one unit, and though you can have a standout player or big physical guy, if the line is not cohesive everything else is for naught.” Center play is critical Kevin Motsinger, an offensive coordinator and O-line coach, said the action begins in the middle of the field and matriculates outward. “Center is the most important position on the field because nothing happens until he gets the ball to the quarterback,” he said. Motsinger went on to say communication and interaction at the line is his favorite part of football. “It’s like an arts performance to me,” he said. “And let me say this: Our success will be 100% on our offensive and defensive lines.”
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Seaforth football, wide receiver Max Hinchman is a senior wide receiver on the Seaforth football team. He has also played basketball for the Hawks. As Seaforth’s leading returning receiver with a 25-catch, 571-yard, five-touchdown junior season, Hinchman gave a glimpse of what is to come during Seaforth’s season-opening scrimmage at Willow Spring. He had several catches, including a leaping sideline catch for more than 30 yards, a daring leaping grab over the middle in traffic for another long gain, and a crossing pattern over the middle with a defender bearing down on him.
GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD
Seaforth’s offensive line gets ready to snap the ball and move some defensive players.
Share with your community! ••• Send your birth, death, marriage, graduation and other announcements to community@chathamnewsrecord.com.
B3
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Craig reveals vascular dementia diagnosis during Pro Football Hall of Fame speech The former 49ers running back gave his speech by prerecorded video
“The changes were gradual. At first, they were easy to dismiss as normal aging. Over time, my family noticed, too.”
By Rob Maaddi The Associated Press CANTON, Ohio — Roger Craig revealed during his induction speech into the Pro Football Hall of Fame that he has vascular dementia. The former San Francisco 49ers star running back spoke in a prerecorded video message while he sat on stage wearing his gold jacket at Tom Benson Stadium on Saturday. Presented by former teammate Jamie Williams, he received a standing ovation from the crowd and hugs from the many Hall of Famers on stage. Nearly eight minutes into a nine-minute speech, Craig announced his diagnosis, saying his doctors believe “it may be related, at least in part, to the concussions” he experienced during his playing career. “The changes were gradual,” Craig said. “At first, they were easy to dismiss as normal aging. Over time, my family noticed, too.”
Roger Craig
DAVID DERMER / AP PHOTO
Roger Craig poses with his bust during the Pro Football Hall of Fame induction ceremony Saturday in Canton, Ohio. Symptoms of vascular dementia, according to the Mayo Clinic, include: confusion; trouble finding the right words; difficulty paying attention; trouble organizing thoughts or actions; difficulty planning and following through with plans; slowed thinking; uncertainty about what to do next; and memory issues.
“Two things could be true,” Craig said. “Football gave me opportunities beyond anything I can imagine. It helped shape the man I became. At the same time, we know more today about brain health than when I played. I hope sharing my story encourages people to pay attention to their health and seek help when something doesn’t feel right.
“I want people to know that this diagnosis doesn’t define me. I am still Roger Craig. I am still a father, still a husband, a teammate, a friend and someone who loves this game and the people who brought it to my life. If sharing my story helps even one family or one former player, then it’s worth it. Football gave me everything: opportunity, discipline, lifelong friends and the platform to grow as a man. This honor belongs to my parents who started it all.” Selected by the 49ers in the second round of the 1983 draft as a fullback out of Nebraska, Craig become one of the most versatile players in league history. He excelled as a runner, receiver and blocker, helping the
Bridgewater steps away from Lions, leaving question at backup QB The former Panthers’ quarterback ended his second NFL stint
“He had a huge heart. He’s going to be missed.”
By Paula Pasche The Associated Press
Dan Campbell, Lions coach
ALLEN PARK, Mich. — Veteran quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has stepped away from football. “His biggest worry was letting us down, that’s the type of guy he is,” Detroit Lions coach Dan Campbell said Sunday, when Bridgewater was placed on the reserve/retired list. The 33-year-old journeyman had signed a one-year deal with the Lions in March after spending 2025 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He also spent 2023 and part of 2024 with Detroit. “So I’ve known Teddy a long time. As a human being, he is unbelievable. Certainly as a player, everything that he’s about, the type of teammate he is, the way he prepares. He always played the game up here,”
an emotional Campbell said, pointing to his head. “He had a huge heart. He’s going to be missed.” Campbell, who was assistant head coach with the New Orleans Saints when Bridgewater played there in 2018 and 2019, has maintained a close relationship with the quarterback. “I’ll never forget 2019 when Drew (Brees) got injured. We’d just gone out to the Rams, got beat out there, and Drew got his thumb and we lost him for five weeks,” Campbell said. “Teddy stepped in and we won five in a row. That was Teddy. His time being with us meant a lot, and it meant a lot to our guys. He’s going to be missed.” Bridgewater had been signed to back up Jared Goff. Undraft-
PAUL SANCYA / AP PHOTO
Detroit Lions quarterbacks Teddy Bridgewater (5) and Jared Goff (16) talk during practice at training camp. ed rookie Luke Altmyer, the only other quarterback on the Lions roster, had been getting more reps in training camp earlier this week when Bridgewater was absent, and again on Sunday. “I thought he did some really good things,” Campbell said.
“He was put in some tough positions for a young player that you absolutely have to be put in, you just do, you’ve got to be thrust in, you need to fail, you need to make mistakes so you can grow, and we thought he handled it really well.”
Local Service Directory
49ers win three of their five Super Bowls. In 1985, Craig became the first player in NFL history to have 1,000 yards rushing and 1,000 yards receiving in a season. He was the AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year in 1988. “When I learned that Bill Walsh wanted me, that meant something because he saw something in me that others didn’t,” Craig said. “He didn’t just want a running back, he wanted a complete football player. He trusted me to do whatever the team needed. That’s why a 1,000-yard rushing, 1,000-yard receiving season means so much to me. We weren’t chasing numbers. We were chasing wins. I didn’t realize I was making history. It just felt like we were doing something special as a team. Looking back, I can appreciate how difficult it is and how few players have done it since. “What means the most is knowing we helped expand what people thought a running back could be. None of that happens without great teammates. What made those 49ers teams special: We weren’t selfish. We didn’t care who got the credit. We cared about winning.”
Altmyer said he has learned so much from Bridgewater. “It was a joy to spend some time with him, but it brings about opportunity for myself, and the standard is to play good football no matter how many reps and or whatever my role is, I have a job to do and my job is to do that very, very well at a high level,” Altmyer said. “I’m thankful. I believe in my abilities, and I’m going to go cut it loose whatever that looks like for me.’’ The Lions signed veteran quarterback Josh Dobbs on Sunday. Bridgewater was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2014 and started 28 games his first two seasons. Before the 2016 season, he tore his ACL and suffered more structural knee damage that kept him out of action into the 2017 season. Bridgewater also played for the Dolphins, Broncos, Panthers and Jets. In 2024, before he re-signed with the Lions in December, Bridgewater coached Miami Northwestern Senior High, his alma mater, to the Florida Class 3A state championship. But he was suspended for the 2025 season after revealing he personally paid for meals, ride-share services and treatments for some players.
B4 SIDELINE REPORT NASCAR
NASCAR’s exhibition Clash returning to Daytona Daytona Beach, Fla. NASCAR’s exhibition Clash is returning to Daytona International Speedway for the first time in six years. The race will be Feb. 13, 2027. It doesn’t count for points and is the lead-up to the season-opening Daytona 500 on Feb. 21. Daytona hosted the Clash from 1979 to 2021. It was moved to Los Angeles Memorial Stadium for three years and then relocated to tiny Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem the last two years in a return to NASCAR’s grassroots racing.
NFL
Bears add experience to secondary by signing safety Woods Chicago The Chicago Bears added significant experience to their secondary by signing safety Xavier Woods. Woods has started in 121 games in nine NFL seasons. The Bears placed defensive back Dallis Flowers on injured reserve following an injury to his right leg. The 31-year-old Woods has 15 career interceptions, including two in 11 games for Tennessee last season. He had 39 tackles for the Titans. Woods played his first four seasons with Dallas, where he started 48 of 60 games. He also has played for Minnesota and Carolina.
SOCCER
Australia grants citizenship to pair of Iranian women’s soccer players Melbourne, Australia Two Iranian women soccer players who sought asylum in Australia have been granted citizenship. Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh said they were sworn in by Immigration Minister Tony Burke in Brisbane. Friends and supporters from the local Iranian community attended the ceremony. The Refugee Council of Australia noted that citizenship usually requires four years on a valid visa. The women joined Brisbane Roar after Iran withdrew from the Women’s Asia Cup hosted by Australia.
NBA
Memphis forward Clarke died from effects of heroin, cocaine Los Angeles Authorities have determined Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died in May from the effects of heroin and cocaine. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner said the 29-year-old basketball player’s death was accidental. Clarke was found dead inside a home near Los Angeles on May 11. Drug paraphernalia was reportedly found at the residence. Clarke was under contract to be with the Grizzlies through the 2026-27 season.
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Trading Rutschman could help Orioles, but move shows how badly team’s plans went awry The former first overall pick was dealt to a division rival By Noah Trister The Associated Press SEVEN YEARS after drafting Adley Rutschman with the top overall pick, Orioles president Mike Elias traded the All-Star catcher to division rival Boston. In the interim, Baltimore managed one division title and one wild card before falling under .500. So Elias was asked point-blank why fans should believe he’s the man to guide the team to future success. “While the last couple of years have really felt like a step back, and have been a step back from where this team was in 2023 and 2024, we have so many good players in this organization,” he said. “We have so many things going for us in this organization in terms of the strength and the infrastructure, the business side of the operation, the ownership, the facilities. We now have a top farm system, and we have a great roster with a lot of really good players that are signed up for many years. And we have a lot of things going for us right now.” The trade may work out for the Orioles in the long run. They acquired three of Boston’s top five prospects. Fans generally understand the logic of dealing a player who might leave as a free agent. But what makes this trade harder to stomach is the year and a half of failure that led up to it. In 2023, the Orioles won 101 games. Rutschman and infielder Gunnar Henderson were franchise cornerstones, and there were several more top prospects on the way. The assumption was there would be a lot more winning. Instead, the Orioles are in danger of missing the playoffs for a second straight season. “The last couple seasons have not gone to plan. There have been shortcomings, and ultimately those are my responsibility,” Elias said. “But
CAROLYN KASTER / AP PHOTO
Baltimore Orioles pitcher Kyle Bradish, left, and catcher Adley Rutschman, right, talk during a game last month. this is a very hard game, we cannot succeed all the time, and we must keep going when things aren’t going our way.” Elias did not sound like a man whose job was in jeopardy. If Elias felt he needed to produce a playoff team this year, he could have kept Rutschman and even added help. There were reasons to trade him, though. Baltimore has catcher Samuel Basallo, who is signed long term and is seven years younger than Rutschman. This type of deal — using a surplus at a key position to acquire help elsewhere — is something the Orioles could perhaps have used more of a few years ago, when they had a wealth of hitting in the majors and minors but needed pitching. Once again, the Orioles have to sell their fans on minor league prospects. The last collection of young talent hasn’t totally delivered on its promise. Rutschman had a down year in 2025, and Henderson is having one this year. Jack-
“We have a lot of things going for us right now.” Mike Elias, Orioles president son Holliday, Colton Cowser and Coby Mayo have all had struggles at the plate. Pitcher Grayson Rodriguez couldn’t stay healthy and was ultimately traded for outfielder Taylor Ward. (Ward, a pending free agent, was also dealt away.) When Elias arrived in November 2018, a rebuild was already underway after the team lost 115 games that year. “We had a lot of work to do around the org. We did it, and for a period of time there — we won a hundred games in 2023 — we had a consensus farm system and a core that looked like it was in a tremendous spot, in a really historically strong spot,” Elias said. “I think to some degree I personally, looking back, got caught up in a narrative about a rebuild. Baseball’s very hum-
bling, and it doesn’t go linearly, and things shifted and changed, and we had a lot of bad luck on the injury front. We had a lot of injuries, and we had regression and things that changed course.” It’s possible Baltimore’s fortune will swing back in a positive direction. The injury luck could improve, and maybe someone like Holliday grows into a star. Even so, Elias will have to prove he’s as good at buying as he seems to be at selling. “We’re in a really good spot with the health of the org, the talent that’s in the org, the players, the system that we have,” Elias said. “We need to get better, we need to continue to adjust and evolve. Our competition is very, very stiff, but I like where we’re at. The way that we’ve gotten here has felt different because of the last couple of years and how we’ve tapered down the last couple years from where our record was in 2023 and 2024. But the future is strong, and I think it starts right now.”
At 35 and in 14th season, Jets’ Smith has Reich seeing QB in his prime The former Panthers coach is impressed by the Jets veteran By Dennis Waszak Jr. The Associated Press FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — Frank Reich had to think for a second while raving — again — about Geno Smith, pondering the New York Jets quarterback’s age. “I don’t know how old he is. Isn’t he past 35?” the offensive coordinator asked last Friday before being told Smith is actually 35. “It feels like he’s 28. I’m telling you, it feels like physically, I see no ... like, he is in his prime, physically.” Not bad for a quarterback entering his 14th NFL season, a journey that began as a second-round draft pick of the Jets in 2013 and has included several ups and downs on the field along the way. “Like his arm, the way he moves, his feet in the pocket, he’s physically in his prime,” said Reich, in his first season running the Jets’ offense. “So he takes great care of himself, and that’s going to help this team.”
New York certainly hopes so. The Jets acquired Smith in the offseason from Las Vegas to add a veteran quarterback to an offense that struggled mightily during a 3-14 season. The Jets ranked last or near the bottom in several offensive categories as the likes of Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor and Brady Cook took turns calling the signals for then-coordinator Tanner Engstrand. Their 8 yards per completion was the lowest mark in the NFL, and that’s something that’s expected to improve significantly. Smith has always been able to stretch the field, especially during three straight seasons of at least 3,500 yards passing in Seattle from 2022-24. He threw for 3,025 last year in a down season with Las Vegas that included an NFL-leading 17 interceptions. Back with the Jets, Smith has had a mostly good training camp. And he has thoroughly impressed Reich, who said during minicamp that the quarterback has an “elite” football mind. Reich was back gushing about Smith last Friday. “Geno’s the leader,” Reich said. “He’s the leader of the of-
SETH WENIG / AP PHOTO
New York Jets’ offensive coordinator Frank Reich, left, works with running backs at the team’s training camp. fense, make no mistake about it, in every way, shape and form. And to me, what has become crystal clear in this early time in training camp, the attribute that sticks out to me is his laser focus. This man is laser-focused like people don’t understand. He comes to work, and he is locked in. “And I feel like the whole offense plays off of that. That’s a really big deal.” Reich has seen what leadership looks like from a quarterback. He was a longtime backup to Jim Kelly as a player and has coached Peyton Manning, Philip Rivers, Andrew Luck and Matt Ryan. The offensive coordinator also knows what good quarterback play looks like. And he sees all of that in Smith, granted, still in the protected, no-contact confines of training camp. “I remember when he was coming out (of college), I had a high grade on him,” Reich
said. “His throwing mechanics, if I’m just talking pure upper-body mechanics, they’re pure. There’s only a couple guys in the league that I would say are pure. Geno’s one of them.” Smith has also been drawing positive reviews from his teammates, who have praised his leadership since rejoining the Jets. “Geno is a legend to guys like me,” fifth-year tight end Jelani Woods said. “He’s been in the league for a long time. You look up to him, just the professionalism he has, it’s something that you look into, and he’s one of those guys that you go up to and talk to him at any time. He sits with you at the lunch table, he sits with anybody at the lunch table, and you just have a simple conversation with him and just talk about life outside of football. “And, you know, stuff like that goes a long way.”
B5
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Chicago’s Carrington ejected for foul on Fever’s Cunningham, posts ‘white privilege’ The on-court scuffle continued on social media The Associated Press CHICAGO — DiJonai Carrington of the Chicago Sky was ejected Saturday after being called for a Flagrant 2 foul on Sophie Cunningham of the Indiana Fever. Minutes later, Carrington posted on social media the words “WHITE PRIVILEGE” and tagged the Fever. Cunningham, who is white, was shooting a fast-break layup in the first quarter when Carrington, who is black, came from behind and hit her in the head and neck, knocking her to the court as the shot went in. Cunningham said she thought the foul in the 90-86 Indiana win was “absolutely” intentional. “Clearly I think it was unnecessary,” Cunningham said. “I’ve never really spoken to her and I have no beef with her, but I guess she has some pent up stuff.” Fever coach Stephanie White had a different view of the play. “It was a hard foul,” White said. “I don’t think that DiJonai intentionally came out to get
PAUL BEATY / AP PHOTO
The Chicago Sky’s DiJonai Carrington walks off the court after being ejected for a flagrant foul against Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham. her across the neck like she did, but it did happen, and I thought it was the right call.” Cunningham got up immediately, charged toward Carrington and pushed her as she was held back by a teammate. “I popped up,” Cunningham said. “I’m not going to let anyone just do that to me. I think everyone knows that. I think
that’s why she did it because she wants attention.” The play was reviewed and upgraded to a Flagrant 2 after the referee said there was windup, impact and follow-through on the foul. Sky coach Tyler Marsh said he hadn’t seen a replay of the play but that seeing it live, he thought Carrington was mak-
we’ll let the league decide. But it wasn’t intentional or anything, so I’m hoping it’s getting rescinded.” A few hours after the game, Clark got her way — the WNBA rescinded the technical foul. Cunningham has frequently come to Clark’s defense after physical play by opponents and has become one of the higher-profile players in the league this season. In an ESPN article published last month, she voiced support for barring transgender girls and women from girls’ and women’s sports, which led to small protests and rallies outside Fever games in Seattle and Portland. In a memo to teams last Friday, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said the league would have ongoing discussions about the issue of transgender participation in women’s basketball. Marsh said the controversy surrounding Cunningham didn’t add anything extra to the game. “We didn’t come into this one with any more or less juice than we’ve had in the last four since the All-Star break,” he said. “Our mindset is trying to win games.”
ing a play on the ball and that he didn’t believe it warranted a Flagrant 2 foul. “I haven’t looked at that play since, so I really don’t know if it was justified or not,” he said. “But that’s what I thought in the moment.” Marsh was then asked about Carrington’s social media post. “I have to get back to you on that because I’m just now hearing about that,” he said. “So yeah, we’ll handle that.” But Cunningham had plenty to say about the post. “I think the league is taking care of that,” she said. “This has nothing to do with race. Last year, I did the same thing and I got kicked out. And I deserved to be kicked out. There’s no reason even to play that card.” In the third quarter, Fever star Caitlin Clark was assessed a technical foul after she made contact with a referee when she was forced out of bounds. The technical was Clark’s eighth of the season, triggering a one-game suspension for Indiana’s next game if not rescinded by the league. “She said I ran into her,” Clark said in a postgame television interview. “I’ve already watched it on the tape, so
Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham claps as the Chicago Sky’s DiJonai Carrington is ejected from the game after committing a flagrant foul against her.
PAUL BEATY / AP PHOTO
Gibbs holds on to win NASCAR Cup Series race at Iowa Speedway Clever pit strategy gave Joe Gibbs’ grandson his second career win By John Bohnenkamp The Associated Press NEWTON, Iowa — Ty Gibbs didn’t question his crew chief’s final pit call. “I can’t do anything about it, so you just run with it,” Gibbs said. Gibbs used late pit strategy and held off Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Christopher Bell over the final 20 laps to win the NASCAR Cup Series race Sunday at Iowa Speedway. Gibbs — the 23-year-old grandson of former NFL coaching great and NASCAR team owner Joe Gibbs — won by 0.253 seconds over Bell for his second victory of the season and his career. Gibbs and Bell each pitted with 60 laps remaining in the 350-lap race, but while Bell took four tires, Gibbs just went with two right-side tires and
came out ahead. And when leader Ross Chastain pitted on Lap 330, Gibbs took over the top spot and fought off a late charge by Bell. Tyler Allen, Gibbs’ crew chief, thought taking two tires was the only chance to get ahead of Bell in that final pit cycle. “We knew after practice the left sides weren’t wearing much and they tended to refire OK,” Allen said. “So in terms of coming into the race, it was definitely a viable option.” Gibbs liked the aggressive call. “I think in the position with our points situation, for sure,” he said. Gibbs, who picked up his first career win April 12 at Bristol, came into the race ranked fourth in the season standings and moved into second — 103 points behind JGR teammate Denny Hamlin. Gibbs, who had an issue in the pits on his first stop of the day when his jack fell too early during the tire change, fell back to 28th before charging back. “You’re kind of hosed after
CHARLIE NEIBERGALL / AP PHOTO
Ty Gibbs, right, celebrates after winning Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Newton, Iowa. that deal,” Gibbs said. “So you’ve got to stay locked in and keep working.” It was the seventh second-place finish of the season for Bell, who led 108 laps. “Ty did a really good job,” Bell said. “He did a great job of managing the race.” Pole-sitter Ryan Blaney, who won the inaugural 2024 Cup Series race at the 0.875-mile oval, was third after leading a race-high 129 laps. Josh Berry finished fourth. It was Berry’s best finish of the season and only his third top-10
finish. Hamlin finished fifth. Chase Briscoe was sixth. Chastain recovered to finish seventh. AJ Allmendinger was eighth, followed by defending race winner William Byron. Austin Dillon was 10th. Reddick’s struggles Tyler Reddick’s summer struggles continued when he crashed into Erik Jones four laps into the race. The rear end of Reddick’s car slid entering Turn 1, and Reddick ran into Jones before hitting the
wall. Reddick finished last in the 36-car field. “One-hundred percent that was on me,” Reddick said. “It’s something I don’t normally do, make those kinds of mistakes. Just gut-wrenching on a lot of levels. I thought we kind of figured out what we needed to do for the race today and made a killer mistake earlier.” Reddick won the first three races of the season and four of the first six, and he has five wins overall. But he has had four finishes of 30th place or worse in the last six races.
B6
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
entertainment this week in history King of Rock ’n’ Roll dies at 42, Sports Illustrated debuts, Miles Davis releases “Kind of Blue”
in London by Martin Secker & Warburg. 1959: Trumpeter Miles Davis released “Kind of Blue,” regarded as one of the most influential jazz albums of all time. 1998: President Bill Clinton gave grand jury testimony via closed-circuit television from the White House concerning his relationship with Monica Lewinsky.
The Associated Press AUG. 13 1521: Spanish conqueror Hernando Cortez captured Tenochtitlan, present-day Mexico City, from the Aztecs. 1792: French revolutionaries arrested and imprisoned King Louis XVI; he would be executed by guillotine the following January. 1995: Baseball Hall of Famer Mickey Mantle died at a Dallas hospital of rapidly spreading liver cancer at age 63. AUG. 14 1936: In front of an estimated 20,000 spectators, Rainey Bethea was hanged in Owensboro, Kentucky, in the last public execution in the United States. 1942: President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill signed the Atlantic Charter, which detailed the postwar goals of the two nations. 1945: President Harry S. Truman announced that Imperial Japan had surrendered unconditionally, ending World War II. AUG. 15 1057: Macbeth, King of Scots, was killed in battle by Malcolm, the eldest son of King Duncan, whom Macbeth had killed 17 years earlier. 1935: Humorist Will Rogers and aviator Wiley Post were killed when their airplane crashed near Point
MATT ROURKE / AP PHOTO
On Aug. 16, 2018, Aretha Franklin, the “Queen of Soul,” whose hits included “Respect” and “Think,” died in Detroit at age 76. Barrow in the Alaska Territory. 1969: The Woodstock Music and Art Fair opened in upstate New York; more than 460,000 people attended the three-day festival, which would become a watershed event in American music and culture. AUG. 16 1777: American forces won the Battle of Bennington in what was considered a turning point of the Revolutionary War. 1948: Baseball legend Babe Ruth died in New York at age 53. 1954: The first issue of Sports Illustrated was released. 1977: Elvis Presley died at his Graceland estate in Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of 42; 41 years later, in 2018, singer Aretha Franklin, known as the “Queen of Soul,” died in Detroit at the age of 76. AUG. 17 1945: The George Orwell novel “Animal Farm,” an allegorical satire of Soviet communism, was first published
AUG. 18 1590: John White, the governor of the Roanoke Island colony (in present-day North Carolina), returned to Roanoke after nearly three years abroad only to find the settlement deserted; the fate of the “Lost Colony” remains a mystery. 1914: President Woodrow Wilson issued his Proclamation of Neutrality, aimed at keeping the United States out of World War I. 1920: The 19th Amendment to the Constitution, guaranteeing American women’s right to vote, was ratified as Tennessee became the 36th state to approve it. AUG. 19 1692: Four men and one woman were hanged after being convicted of witchcraft at Salem in the Province of Massachusetts Bay; the story of one of the men, John Proctor, inspired Arthur Miller’s play “The Crucible.” 1812: The USS Constitution defeated the British frigate HMS Guerriere off Nova Scotia during the War of 1812, earning the nickname “Old Ironsides.” 1854: Thirty-one U.S. soldiers were killed after one of the soldiers fatally shot Brule Lakota Chief Conquering Bear, sparking the First Sioux War.
AP PHOTO
On Aug. 15, 1969, the three-day Woodstock music festival opened near Bethel, New York, featuring performers including Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin.
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
OLIVE
Get in touch! chathamnewsrecord.com
SOLUTION TO LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE
B7
B8
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
2
nd
Book found bricked in fireplace returned to Australian library, 150 years overdue The volume will be displayed in the library’s local history collection By Rod McGuirk The Associated Press
*Must set up Auto Draft for 2nd Month. Offer valid through February 28, 2026.
MELBOURNE, Australia — A book on Greek antiquities has been returned to an Australian public library about 150 years late, with water damage from years bricked into a fireplace. The book was returned to the library in the seaside town of Kiama last week by a local Ross Simmons who had found it during recent home renovations inside a tea crate bricked into a sealed fireplace, Kiama Library manager Michelle Hudson said. “We’ve never had anything that old come back to us,” Hudson said. “I follow lots of libraries on social media, and often you’ll get things that are maybe 30 or 40 years old when they’re cleaning out estates and stuff like that,” she added. Ross Simmons said last Friday he assumed the
CATHERINE TAYLOR VIA AP
A copy of “Antiquities of Athens,” stamped by a library, was returned July 30 in Kiama, Australia, roughly 150 years late. book was borrowed by his great-great-grandfather John Simmons, who had owned the house where it was found. “I’m making an assumption. He was in residence in the cottage around about that time and his children were probably too young,” Ross Simmons said.
The library opened in 1872, and the book, “Antiquities of Athens,” published in 1858, was marked as No. 506 in the library’s original collection of around 1,000 books. Hudson suspects the book was lost within a few years of the library opening. The late return fine would be around $19,500, allowing for inflation, Hudson said. That was calculated on the British three pence-a-week overdue fee that was printed on the inside cover of the book, along with a list of rules that applied when the library opened. But Hudson said the library’s records of borrowers in the 1870s had been lost. “Unfortunately, we have a missing link. There’s nothing in the book that tells us who the last borrower was,” Hudson said. Library rules in the 1870s stated that a book had to be returned and an overdue debt paid before another book could be borrowed. “Maybe that’s why they never returned it to us,” Hudson said. Antiquated rules of the day included that up to three books could be borrowed by house-
holds in which at least six members were “known to be able to read.” Proof of reading ability is no longer required to use today’s library. In the 1870s, books were not lent to people who arrived at the library in a “state of intoxication.” Library users are now asked to leave if their behavior impacts others, but the rules are not specific about intoxication. Ross Simmons said he had no idea why his English immigrant ancestor, who had also served as an alderman in Kiama’s municipal government, would not have returned the book. He said he hadn’t been concerned by the prospect of being held liable by an angry librarian for his family’s debt. “I’ve spent a lifetime dealing with irate customers and being irate with customers myself. Just stick to your guns and say do your worst,” the 77-year-old said. “We’re not going to allow it to go back out again. We don’t want to wait another 150 years for this book to be returned,” Hudson said.
‘Lost Weekend’ serves as Bridgers’ evocative sonic collage For fans of road trips without a destination, old home videos and ambient music By Elise Ryan The Associated Press A TUNING RADIO. The shouts and muffled beats of a New Year’s Eve party. A voicemail from her father. On her excellent third studio album, “Lost Weekend,” Phoebe Bridgers creates a collage of the years since we last heard from her as a solo artist. It’s her first solo album since 2020’s beloved “Punisher” and the return of her supergroup with Lucy Dacus and Julien Baker, Boygenius. Those intervening years, Bridgers explains in press materials, were also full of personal changes and challenges. One relationship dissolved and another blossomed. And in 2022, her father died. The album is dedicated to him. Those are the dominant experiences Bridgers examines across the record, which sees her pair her signature lyrical style with enthralling, complex
sonic arrangements. The journey she brings listeners on is not linear but feels instead like a sort of road trip. Some experiences are lingered within; others merely drift past. Bridgers visits a mall on “Liberty Tree,” as a relationship sparks. A van breaks down in the title track, just before she acknowledges the breakup of a proposed marriage. On “Panorama,” ambient beats pulse and mix with a guitar track for over a minute before the listener arrives at Bridgers’ verse, and a hotel room. It’s a resting place, giving listeners space to absorb some of the more intense lyrical revelations surrounding the track. In classic Bridgers’ fashion, the images evoked send listeners lurching from euphoria to heart-wrenching melancholy. Screams undercut the opening of “Bobby,” about how the intensity of a love can be felt in the mundane details of a shared life. Banjo played by co-producer Jack Antonoff peeks out from below the heavier drum and guitar track — a wistful, carefree, sonic thread. “Bobby, this could be the end of wanting,” she sings, as the instruments soften. When the track
solutions
RICHARD SHOTWELL / INVISION VIA AP PHOTO
Phoebe Bridgers poses with her four Grammy Awards during the 66th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles in 2024. resurges, that refrain is repeated: “This could be the end.” Endings remain a Bridgers motif, but the hope imbued in this one makes it feel like an antidote to her apocalypse-anthem “I Know The End.” “Still Standing” sees Bridgers reflect on a different kind of ending. Acoustic guitar builds as she recalls moments from her childhood and considers her relationship with her late father: “I wasn’t too young to understand / I just didn’t think
it was so bad,” she sings. “And it wasn’t in a way / And now there is nothing.” Across the project, the intentionality displayed is stark. Space is not wasted. “Never Going Back!” is lyrically simple, for example, but complicated by that voicemail. Throughout, those collected clips are grounding — like intercepted signals from reality, breaking into the soundscape Bridgers has crafted to help herself (and us listeners) understand it.
In early June, Bridgers played a selection of hits and songs from the album at Madison Square Garden, the cap on a series of pop-up concerts. Phones were strictly prohibited. Even pencils were banned. The limited distractions didn’t silence the gasps and cries of reaction, but the lack of electronics allowed for more careful listening. Those shows were a signal for how this album should be absorbed: carefully, deliberately.
B9
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
famous birthdays this week Maxine Waters hits 88, Ben Affleck turns 54, Robert De Niro is 83, Bill Clinton celebrates 80 The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week. AUG. 13 Former U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders is 93. Opera singer Kathleen Battle is 78. High wire aerialist Philippe Petit is 77. Hockey Hall of Famer Bobby Clarke is 77. Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders is 44. AUG. 14
EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION VIA AP
Pop star Madonna turns 68 on Sunday.
Broadway lyricist Lee Adams (“Bye Bye Birdie”) is 102. Country singer Connie Smith is 85. Comedian-actor Steve Martin is 81. Actor Susan Saint James is 80. Author Danielle Steel is 79. “Far Side” cartoonist Gary Larson is 76. NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace is 70. Basketball Hall of Famer Earvin “Magic” Johnson is 67. AUG. 15 Actor Jim Dale is 91. Retired Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer is 88. U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) is 88. Author-journalist Linda Ellerbee is 82. Songwriter Jimmy Webb is 80. Britain’s Princess Anne is 76. Actor Debra Messing is 58. Actor Ben Affleck is 54. AUG. 16 Actor Julie Newmar is 93. Film director Bruce Beresford is 86. Actor Bob Balaban is 81. Movie director James Cameron is 72. Singer/actor Madonna is 68. Actor Angela Bassett is 68. Actor Steve Carell is 64. AUG. 17 Computer scientist Margaret Hamilton is 90. Actor Robert De Niro is 83. Businessman Larry Ellison is 82. Actor Sean Penn is 66. Singer/actor Donnie Wahlberg is 57. College Basketball Hall of Famer and retired NBA All-Star Christian Laettner is 57.
AL SEIB / INVISION VIA AP
Actor, comedian and musician Steve Martin turns 81 on Friday. AUG. 18 Actor Denis Leary is 69. Actor Madeleine Stowe is 68. ABC News reporter Bob Woodruff is 65. Actor Edward Norton is 57. Actor Christian Slater is 57. Actor Kaitlin Olson is 51. Actor-comedian Andy Samberg is 48. AUG. 19 Former tennis player and coach Renee Richards is 92. Actor Jill St. John is 86. Author Jack Canfield is 82. Rock singer Ian Gillan (Deep Purple) is 81. Former President Bill Clinton is 80. Actor John Stamos is 63.
B10
Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
the stream
AMY HARRIS / INVISION VIA AP PHOTO
Travis Barker performs with Clipse during the first weekend of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April in Indio, California.
‘Michael,’ Travis Barker, ‘Lanterns,’ ‘Madden NFL 27’ Singer Carly Simon releases “Comes In Waves” on Friday The Associated Press THE BLOCKBUSTER biopic “Michael” and a new documentary about Travis Barker 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, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: players can get back on the gridiron in “Madden NFL 27,” a new season of “Reacher” drops, and Carly Simon releases her first album in more than a decade. MOVIES TO STREAM The Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” is now streaming on Starz after a $1 billion run at the box office. Director Antoine Fuqua’s estate-approved dramatization of Jackson’s life stars his nephew Jaafar Jackson as the King of Pop. In my review, I wrote that “Michael” “slides a sequin glove over the pop star’s tarnished legacy, shrouding Michael Jackson’s complications with a conventional biopic that, if you cover your ears, sounds great.” The Netflix-Sandler connection continues Friday in “Don’t Say Good Luck,” a Happy Madison production starring Sandler’s daughter Sunny. In the coming-of-age comedy, she plays a high school theater student whose school play aspirations are complicated by her mother’s illness. Melanie Lynskey co-stars in the film. In “Normal” (Friday on HBO Max), Bob Odenkirk extends his action-hero resume beyond the two “Nobody” movies. In director Ben Wheatley’s film, Odenkirk plays a substitute sheriff who arrives in a wintery Min-
nesota town full of strange happenings, including the recent death of the previous sheriff. In his review, AP Film Writer Jake Coyle called it “a hyperviolent Midwestern Western that cleverly inverts some genre standards with a pleasingly loose hold on reality.” MUSIC TO STREAM Less than three minutes into “Travis Barker: Louder Than Fear,” a new documentary about the famed Blink-182 drummer, and audiences are launched into the aftermath of the devastating plane crash he survived in 2008. The film follows the esteemed musician from 2017 to 2026 but doubles as a celebration of his life before and after the life-altering crash, a central event in a career full of them. It’s a must-watch for fans, or simply those in need of a dynamic doc about resiliency. Stream it on Hulu on Thursday. Simon has been in headlines as of late; in July she shared that she has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and was recently treated for skin cancer. It makes her forthcoming album “Comes In Waves” — her first album of original songs since 2008, out Friday — even more of a miracle. “Working on the music gave shape to days that did not always have much shape. It gave me somewhere to go without having to leave the room,” she said in a statement. “It reminded me that illness can change your life without becoming the whole of your life.” Becky G is back with the bilingual “Baraja Bendita,” a new album and her first since leaving Kemosabe Records. Fans expecting more of 2024’s “Encuentros,” which explored rancheras and corridos, may be wise to return to that release. In this one, out Friday, she has assured in interviews, it is still a celebration of her Mexican her-
MAGNOLIA PICTURES / LIONSGATE PICTURES / NETFLIX VIA AP
The films “Normal,” from left, “Michael” and “Don’t Say Good Luck” are all available to stream this week.
“‘Normal’ is a hyperviolent Midwestern Western that cleverly inverts some genre standards with a pleasingly loose hold on reality.” Jake Coyle, AP film writer
ANDY KROPA / INVISION VIA AP PHOTO
Bob Odenkirk attends the premiere of “Normal” at Metrograph in April in New York. itage. It is still Becky G, after all — but largely, it is a return to her rap-pop roots. SERIES TO STREAM The first three episodes of Season 4 of “Reacher” starring Alan Ritchson are now on Prime Video. The new episodes are based on the 13th book in the Jack Reacher series by Lee Child called “Gone Tomorrow.” After Reacher witnesses a woman take her own life on the subway, he becomes a target for information she passed onto him before her death. Season 3 of “Tires,” starring stand-up comics Steve Gerben and Shane Gillis, arrives on Netflix on Thursday. The show is a workplace come-
dy about the employees of an auto repair shop that leans into its blue-collar setting. Gerben and Gillis co-created the show with John McKeever, who directs all the episodes. The trio also writes most of the series as well. Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre star in the new HBO series “Lanterns,” which premieres Sunday on HBO Max. The show is based on DC Comics’ Green Lantern characters. Chandler and Pierre play Hal Jordan and John Stewart, members of the intergalactic law enforcement tasked with maintaining order throughout the universe and its galaxies. Their job takes them to Earth where they investigate a murder in Nebraska. “Lanterns” is
the second live-action series in the debut phase of the new DC Universe under co-chairs James Gunn and Peter Safran. Part sci-fi superhero story, it’s also inspired by mysteries like “True Detective.” VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY This long, hot summer can’t be over soon enough, so thank goodness “Madden NFL 27” is on its way. EA Sports has even put a cold-weather quarterback, the Chicago Bears’ Caleb Williams, on the cover. And the new edition has “dynamic weather,” meaning you could get slammed by a snowstorm midway through a game. EA is also promising new short-yardage mechanics and tighter defensive coverage. And wannabe franchise owners can look forward to the “Persona Engine,” which EA says “gives every NFL athlete a distinct personality.” Autumn arrives Thursday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Switch 2 and PC.
VOLUME 11 ISSUE 25 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026
DUPLINJOURNAL.COM
Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
the
Gathering in prayer
this week
Duplin County faith-based leaders gathered Monday at the Duplin County Board of Education for the annual Prayer at the Pole, joining together in prayer for the upcoming school year.
BRIEF $1.15M bond set in Beulaville meth case Beulaville A Beulaville man faces multiple drug trafficking charges after the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office seized approximately 882 grams of methamphetamine while executing a search warrant July 14. According to the sheriff’s office, members of the Special Operations Division and Special Response Team served the warrant at a residence on Willard Edwards Road. Kyle Maley was charged with two counts of trafficking in methamphetamine, maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances, possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a Schedule II controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He was jailed under a $1.15 million secured bond.
3 arrested in drug raid Warsaw Three people were arrested following a July 30 search warrant that resulted in the seizure of marijuana and firearms, according to the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office. Members of the sheriff’s Special Operations Division and Special Response Team executed the warrant at a residence on Works Farm Road. Billy Faison Jr., Billy Faison III and Nikeemoshay Davidson were each charged with felony possession of a Schedule VI controlled substance, possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a Schedule VI controlled substance, manufacturing a Schedule VI controlled substance, maintaining a dwelling for controlled substances and possession of marijuana paraphernalia. Faison III also was charged with possession of a firearm by a felon. Davidson and Faison Jr. were each jailed under $20,000 secured bonds. Faison III received a $30,000 secured bond.
Man jailed in occupied dwelling shootings Wallace A Wallace man remains jailed without bond after being charged in connection with multiple shootings involving occupied homes. According to the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office, Rayford Mangham Jr., 22, was arrested June 23 and charged with multiple counts of discharging a weapon into occupied property. Investigators said the charges stem from several shootings reported throughout May. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office at 910-296-2150 or Duplin County Crime Stoppers at 910-372-9202.
$2.00
COURTESY DARA BAILEY
Mt. Calvary disputes allegations as NC Justice Department review continues Complaints to state agencies allege financial and administrative misconduct
The nonprofit, which is led by Pender County Commissioner Jimmy Tate, came under scrutiny after citizen complaints were filed with the state. While the organization remains under fire, both its legal counsel and local officials are speaking out to clarify their positions on the matter.
Attorney Kennedy Thompson, who represents Mt. Calvary, said the organization has received a copy of the citizen’s complaint submitted to the Department of Justice and disputed the allegations. “The allegations in the
Boltinhouse takes Miss North Carolina USA dispute to court
gal basis for removing her title. Boltinhouse entered the Miss North Carolina USA competition without prior pageant experience but emerged as the winner after taking four of the competition’s five major categories: People’s Choice, Miss Congeniality, Fitness and Best Gown. The daughter of immigrant parents who was reared in rural North Carolina, Boltinhouse’s victory was initially presented as a small-town success story and an example of the “American Dream.” That changed when nega-
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal WALLACE — The North Carolina Department of Justice is awaiting a formal response
from the Mt. Calvary Center for Leadership Development following allegations of misconduct, including Medicaid fraud, extortion and misuse of taxpayer funds.
Her attorney alleges discrimination and questions the basis for the pageant organization’s decision By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal BEULAVILLE NATIVE Brittany Boltinhouse’s brief reign as Miss North Carolina
USA 2026 has taken a dramatic turn, moving from the pageant stage to a legal dispute over the circumstances surrounding the loss of her title. Patrick Mincey, Boltinhouse’s
attorney, says his client is pursuing legal action against the pageant organization over what her legal team describes as the “wrongful and unjustified stripping” of her crown. The case is expected to focus on allegations of discrimination, questions surrounding social media evidence and whether pageant officials had a legitimate le-
Wastewater enforcement discussed by Warsaw board Commissioners also appointed an interim town attorney and discussed public records requests By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal WARSAW — The Warsaw Board of Commissioners addressed a disputed special meeting, wastewater violations and a breach involving sensitive employee information during its Aug. 11 meeting. Procedural disputes dominated the meeting as the board revisited a special meeting held Aug. 7. Commissioner Ebony Willis Wells argued the previ-
ous meeting violated North Carolina General Statute 143-318.12 because notice was not posted at least 48 hours in advance. Mayor Pro Tem Jack Hawes argued the website-posting provision only required posting before the meeting began. Mayor Wesley Boykin then cast a tiebreaking vote to rescind the Aug. 7 actions to “err on the side.” Following the rescission, the board formally voted to appoint J. Blake Phillips as the new interim town attorney. The board also heard an environmental status report from Cecil Madden of McDavid Associates regarding the town’s industrial pretreatment program. See WARSAW, page A6
“I’ve made numerous requests in regards to receiving public records information.” Commissioner Ebony Willis Wells
See REVIEW, page A5
See MISS NC, page A2
A2
Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
THURSDAY
8.13.26 #138
New hangar ready for tenants DUPLIN Airport commissioners discussed rental rates, utility costs and a potential maintenance operator By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal
“Join the conversation” Duplin Journal
www.duplinjournal.com North State Media LLC 104 W Main Street Wallace, NC 28466 Copyright 2026
Trip Hoffend Publisher
Jim Sills VP of Local Newspapers
Ena Sellers News Editor
Michael Jaenicke Sports Editor
Patsy Teachey Advertising Representative
Loretta Carey Office Manager
CONTACT US Office Phone: 910 463-1240 To place a legal ad: 919 663-3232; Fax: 919 663-4042
KENANSVILLE — The Duplin County Airport Commission received updates on several construction projects during its July 28 meeting, including the completion of a new hangar, delays to the airport’s fuel farm and plans for future capital improvements. Airport Director Joshua Raynor said the airport received a certificate of occupancy for the new hangar June 23. “We are in warranty now until June of 2027,” Raynor said. The board discussed the finished hangar, including how to use approximately $36,000 remaining in the project’s contingency fund and how to establish rental rates for future tenants. After discussing whether the funds could be used for items such as appliances, members agreed to return the remaining money to the project’s transportation fund for future capital needs. Jon McCalmont of Parrish and Partners LLC advised that state grant requirements could limit the purchase of nonfixed equipment. The board also discussed interest from a potential charter and maintenance operator who currently operates a business in Rocky Mount. Members said bringing the business to Duplin County Airport could restore full-service aircraft maintenance and avionics after the current provider
“They put a new management team together to finish the project. It’s still a few months out, but it feels like it’s going to get back on track to finish by the end of October.” Hunter Boniface retires. The commission invited the prospective tenant to meet with members at a future meeting. Rental rates were also discussed. “The way the current lease is written, we are paying for all the utilities,” Raynor said. “That’s a lot more now with the air conditioning and dehumidification systems in the rehabilitated hangars.” The board discussed transferring utility costs to tenants through individually metered service. Members also agreed to notify tenants well in advance of any rent adjustments before considering changes during the next fiscal year. Hunter Boniface, operations manager for Parrish and Partners, gave an update on the fuel farm project. “They put a new management team together to finish the project,” Boniface said. “It’s still a few months out, but it feels like it’s going to get back on track to finish by the end of October.” The fuel farm was originally slated for completion by July 14, but the revised schedule projects completion by Oct. 31. The board discussed whether additional costs could be incurred
because of delayed material deliveries, and Raynor said space is available to store fuel tanks on-site if needed before the project is complete. The apron rehabilitation project with Michael Baker is out for bid. The board approved a work authorization for project management services totaling $355,114 and recommended it to the Duplin County Board of Commissioners for approval. The board also discussed liquidated damages, with McCalmont explaining that they are intended to compensate owners for actual costs caused by project delays rather than serve as a penalty. “It is a predetermined amount that you think the owner may be subject to that can be added to a project if it exceeds a certain amount of time,” McCalmont said. “It can’t be imposed as a penalty if you did not truly incur those damages.” McCalmont said liquidated damages may help recover costs such as additional engineering oversight, inspection expenses or lost revenue, and contractors sometimes negotiate credits on other project costs instead of paying liquidated damages directly. Raynor shared the airport’s budget and fuel sales report. During the past month, the airport recorded 552 aircraft operations, 3,312 gallons of avgas and about 21,000 gallons of jet fuel. The commission also discussed using a request for qualifications process to hire an engineer for a future maintenance building. Members said they preferred a practical design that would meet the airport’s needs without unnecessary design costs.
happening SPONSORED BY
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Duplin County:
Now through Aug. 31 Back-to-School Haircuts James Sprunt Community College’s Barber School and Cosmetology Department are offering free back-to-school haircuts to help students and families prepare for the new school year. Barber School appointments are available through Aug. 31, while the Cosmetology Department will offer free haircuts Aug. 19 to Sept. 3 for ages 4 and older. Appointments and walk-ins are available during designated hours. James Sprunt Community College, Kenansville
Aug. 15. Operation Giveback 2026 9 a.m. to noon
Kenansville prepares to fill 2 key town positions Town officials also approved a policy allowing staff to arrange payment plans for customers with unusually high utility bills By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal THE TOWN of Kenansville may soon put three help-wanted signs out to fill what are now two positions. Discussion about filling the positions held by Town Manager Anna West and Public Works Director Garry Benson received top billing during the meeting of the town’s board of commissioners Aug. 4. West announced her intention to step down at last month’s meeting, saying her last day in the position would be Jan. 2, 2027. Benson is retiring at the end of December. In addition to serving as town manager, West has had a dual role as the town’s finance officer. The board discussed splitting the two positions. “Having been here so long
MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Kenansville town attorney Joseph Ezzell, left, advises the town on a proposed payment plan for utility customers who receive unexpectedly high utility bills. and seeing all that goes on, I think it’s too much to put on one person to have to do,” Mayor Pro Tem Milta King said. “It’s getting more complicated every day.” The board discussed the possibility of hiring from within versus advertising for outside applicants. West was asked if she thought her two positions should be split. “Yes, because we’ve grown to the place now where there’s
MISS NC from page A1 tive comments and collages containing alleged social media posts from Boltinhouse’s past that contained offensive language and political commentary began circulating, and on Aug. 5, A Blaize Productions ended Boltinhouse’s reign. Miss USA CEO Thom Brodeur cited a “zero tolerance” policy regarding racism, homophobia and transphobia, and said the decision followed a review of the “totality of the circumstances” over an extended period. In a statement, Brodeur said that he had reviewed a forthcoming statement from Boltinhouse and that it demonstrated “ownership, accountability and apology.” The statement, howev-
COURTESY @ESPINO.SOSA / INSTAGRAM
Brittany Boltinhouse er, was not released to the media. First runner-up Myla Hadley was named the new Miss North Carolina USA 2026. Mincey said his legal team is challenging the decision and argues that the pageant organization targeted her because of
“I think it’s too much to put on one person to have to do.” Milta King, mayor pro tem more going on,” West said. “As the town actively seeks more grants, it is a lot to do.” In other business, town clerk Madison Jones presented a pro-
her Christian faith and conservative political views. Mincey contends that pageant organizers have not identified specific conduct that would justify removing Boltinhouse’s title. “Our investigation has already uncovered evidence, including recorded statements that show pageant officials acknowledging the absence of any legitimate or legal basis for their decision to strip Brittany of her title,” said Mincey. Those claims have not been resolved in court. As the dispute moves toward legal proceedings, Boltinhouse’s legal team says it intends to present its case in court and maintains that, although the organization ended her reign, she “will not be cancelled.”
posal to the board that would allow payment plans for utility customers who receive large, unexpected bills. Currently, any resident seeking a payment plan has to come before the board for approval. Under the proposed plan, a customer with a very large, unusual bill, resulting from a broken water pipe or other issue, could be granted a payment plan that would split the large bill into $100 monthly payments, provided they agree to pay all current bills in addition to the payments. The plan would allow town staff to enter into the agreement without board approval, but the board would receive a report on any agreements made by staff. “In the past, you have agreed to do payment plans, and I know we had talked about putting something into the policy so they wouldn’t have to (go to the board) every time and wait a month to find out whether they have to fork out much money up front,” Jones said, emphasizing the plan would only apply to customers who have an unusually large, unexpected bill due to unusual circumstances. Anyone seeking a payment plan outside of those circumstances would still have to appear before the board for approval. The board voted unanimously to approve the new payment plan policy.
“Our investigation has already uncovered evidence, including recorded statements that show pageant officials acknowledging the absence of any legitimate or legal basis for their decision to strip Brittany of her title.” Patrick Mincey
Operation Giveback 2026 will be held at Beulaville Town Hall. The event 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 event, which 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. Jalen’s Bless the Block will provide school supplies and free haircuts. The event 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
Aug. 22 End of Summer Bash 5 to 8 p.m. The Duplin Events Center will wrap up the season with a free End of Summer Bash featuring live music by The Pink Slips. Families and visitors are invited to enjoy an evening of entertainment and community fun. 224 Seminary St., Kenansville
A3
Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Teachey town limits grow as board approves annexation The annexation clears another hurdle for a proposed townhome and housing development By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal TEACHEY — The town limits of Teachey officially grew Monday evening, but only by a little less than an acre after the Teachey Town Board approved an annexation request from Bert Properties that will bring the remainder of the proposed development near the intersection of N.C. Highway 117 and Hunter Street within town limits. Most of the property was already within the town limits, but the property owners requested that the remaining portion be annexed so the entire property would be within the town. The annexation approval came after a required public hearing during which no one offered any comments. The annexation clears the way for future work to begin on the subdivision that will feature single-family homes and townhomes. Chad Lambert and Robert Stevens of Bert Properties have worked through several hurdles since January, when they appeared before the board requesting that the town create an ordinance allowing the construction of townhomes. It took several months for the town to develop and approve the new townhome ordinance. Lambert told Duplin Journal in January that construction on the new project is estimated to begin in 2028 once all the town requirements are approved. In other business, Town Clerk Morgan Jacobs and Utility Clerk Ally Casey updated the board on a new website developer the town has secured. The new sys-
PHOTOS BY MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
The Teachey Board of Commissioners meeting Monday fell on the birthday of Mayor Bobby Jones. His family joined him while the board presented him with a birthday cake and sang “Happy Birthday.”
The board voted to annex less than an acre in another part of town that now paves the way for construction to begin on a new subdivision featuring a mix of houses and town homes. tem is expected to take about eight weeks to complete and will include fillable forms for utility services and zoning permits, as well as a more efficient system for sending text and email alerts. “It should be way easier to edit than what we have now,” Casey
told the board. “We can update it quicker and send out alerts.” The new system also will offer an online utility payment service that charges a smaller fee for credit card payments than the current provider. It also will offer the option of
an ACH bank draft with no fee. The board agreed to sell by auction a used 2002 Ford F-150 pickup truck owned by the town. The truck will be sold through sealed mail-in bids, with a reserve price and a Sept. 30 deadline. Davelon Carr of GYT Prayer Center Church requested permission to use the town hall Aug. 22 from 3-4 p.m. for a community prayer initiative. Carr said the effort was intended to strengthen the connection between the church and the community. He said they had already held a similar session in Wallace. “Scripture teaches us that we are to pray not just for one another, but specifically Paul instructed us to pray for all of those in authority,” Carr said. “And it’s real easy to complain, but it takes faith to not complain and
pray. But also understand the job that everyone does in authority. Whatever the position is, it’s not an easy job because one thing is for sure, two things are for certain. You can’t please everybody.” Mayor Bobby Jones expressed his support for the prayer initiative, saying he had already developed an extensive list of 15 prayer items for the town. The board agreed to allow access to town hall for the prayer session and voted to waive the usual $50 building-use fee, citing the benefit to the town. Another resident raised concerns about safety issues involving unpermitted residential work, including HVAC, sheds and electrical work. He also raised concerns about ATVs and bikes being operated dangerously on neighborhood streets. The board discussed the difficulty of enforcing such violations. Officials said they must coordinate with the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office to hold violators accountable. They also noted that residents can be hesitant to testify because of concerns about retaliation. The board also discussed a dispute involving a $4,700 water-leak repair bill from July 1. The town is disputing the bill with contractor AC Schultz, which officials said is refusing to pay because the company maintains it called 811 for utility locates within the required timeframe. Town officials said they believe the contractor called in the locate request for the wrong intersection. During announcements, the board was updated on finances. As of the meeting, officials said the town’s bank account held $322,580.47, while its NC Capital Management account held $1,299,490.41, for a combined total of $1,622,070.88. Planning is also underway for the Teachey Fall Festival, which is scheduled for Oct. 10 from 1-7 p.m. Monday’s meeting coincided with the birthday of Jones — the mayor turned 41. He was presented with a cake while those in attendance, including his wife and two children, sang “Happy Birthday.”
Contact us today! WWW.SMITHBROSGAS.COM WWW.SOUTHEASTERNWATERCONDITIONING.COM 2500 S. US 117 Hwy., Magnolia • (910) 289-3391
A4
Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | JIMMY DIXON
Time, freedom and the responsibility to vote
We cannot turn the clock back. But we can and surely must manage ourselves.
I RECENTLY READ a talk given by Joseph B. Wirthlin titled “A Word to You: Generation of Destiny,” given in 1979. He begins by making some comments about the “Guinness Book of World Records.” He makes reference to a group of college students who decided to establish a contest to set a world record for thumb twiddling. The champion thumb-twiddler twiddled his thumbs for more than 20 hours. Wirthlin concludes, “It is quite likely that these students had never heard of or at least had never taken seriously the advice of Benjamin Franklin, one of the wisest of Americans. He warned: Do not squander time, for that is the stuff life is made of.” He then describes an old adage and a sage of great wisdom who attempts to answer a young man’s question: What is the greatest gift in the world? “The greatest gift in the world, my son,” replied the sage without hesitation, “would be to have all the time you need.” Now would be a good point to remind ourselves that time is inextensible, which means that it is incapable of being stretched or extended. Each of us, whether we want to or not, spend it at a fixed rate of 60 seconds per minute. You may now be asking, “Well, what is your point?” First, since time is the “stuff” life is made of, shouldn’t we then make the best use of it? Second, since the passage of time cannot be managed, shouldn’t we try to manage ourselves rather than trying to manage the clock?
Our Founding Fathers established, for the first time ever, a government Lincoln described as “government of the people, by the people, for the people,” and he declared with anticipatory resolve that “this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom — and that government shall not perish from the earth.” With those thoughts in mind, shouldn’t we the people then try to manage ourselves and safeguard the divinely inspired government they established? The “new birth of freedom” statement was in reference to the attempt to cure the stigma of the servitude of one human to another human, which was a manmade flaw in our Constitution. It is true that “all men were created equal,” but it is very obvious that all men were not “born” equal. The bloody Civil War intensified this new nation’s attempt to have all citizens “live” free. We cannot turn the clock back. But we can and surely must manage ourselves with due diligence to safeguard the Constitutional Republic the Founders established that ensures that the right of all who abide by the laws of the land can live free. Each new election is the most important election of our lifetime. Evil forces no longer try to hide their intent. In your wildest thoughts did you ever think our God-designed gender would be challenged? Did you ever think anyone would propose abolishing the police, the Senate, the Constitution or the presidency?
We who are people of faith know that these are the latter days spoken of in the Holy Bible wherein our ultimate work is to prepare ourselves, our children and our nation for the Second Coming of the King of Kings who will reign and govern with perfect judgment, justice, mercy and righteous power. For the most part, our government is comprised of men and women of the two major political parties, the Republican Party and the Democratic Party. We must therefore inform ourselves of the tenets of the two parties and the candidates representing those parties. At this point I will get very partisan because the national leadership of the Democratic Party is politically misguided. They want to destroy the basic commonsense principles upon which freedom and liberty depend. There are two critical North Carolina offices up for election on Nov. 3; U.S. Senate and a N.C. Supreme Court justice. Do not be fooled. The two Democrats will be fiercely loyal to the tenets of the Democratic Party. They will falsely disguise themselves as moderates. We the people should make the time to inform ourselves about the real objectives of the Democratic Party and vote for Michael Whatley for U.S. Senate and Sarah Stevens for N.C. Supreme Court. Rep. Jimmy Dixon represents Duplin and Wayne counties in the N.C. House of Representatives.
COLUMN | LARRY ELDER
AI cannot give writers something to say
Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed.
AFTER NEARLY 35 years as a talk show host, I’ve had many young broadcasters ask me, “What’s the secret?” My answer always surprises them because it’s so short. “Have something to say.” Most expect advice about voice, pacing, interview techniques, social media or how to handle callers. Those things matter. But they’re secondary. If you don’t have an interesting idea, no amount of polish will keep an audience listening. The audience may admire your delivery for a while, but eventually it wants substance. It wants a reason to come back tomorrow. The same principle applies to writing. Someone once asked me, “What makes a good writer?” My answer was the same: “Having something to say.” Good grammar helps. A large vocabulary helps. A clever turn of phrase helps. But readers don’t return because of sentence structure. They return because the writer consistently offers an insight, an argument or an observation they had not considered before. The style attracts attention. The ideas keep it. That’s one reason the rise of artificial intelligence doesn’t worry me nearly as much as it worries some people. AI can make a sentence cleaner. It can tighten a paragraph. It can suggest a better headline, organize research and identify weaknesses in an argument. It can save a substantial amount of time in tracking down sources. Those are remarkable tools. But recently, a judge blasted an attorney whose legal brief cited cases that were either nonexistent or did not support the proposition for which they were
cited. Blind and lazy reliance on AI was the likely culprit. But AI cannot live your life for you. It cannot accumulate your experiences, your failures, your successes, your conversations or your observations. Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed. AI can help you communicate an idea more effectively, but it cannot give you a lifetime from which original ideas are born. The same lesson appears in coaching. NFL coach Bum Phillips once paid Hall of Fame coach Don Shula perhaps the greatest compliment one coach has ever paid another: “He can take his’n and beat your’n. And your’n and beat his’n.” In other words, if Shula had the better team, he would beat you. But if you had the better team, he might beat you anyway. Phillips was saying that great coaches first maximize their advantages. Then, every so often, they overcome their disadvantages. When I practiced law, I came to a similar conclusion about trial lawyers. A good trial lawyer wins all the cases he should — and a few he shouldn’t. He doesn’t lose the cases he should win through poor preparation or weak advocacy. Then, once in a while, through judgment, preparation and persuasion, he wins a case the facts and the law suggest he would lose. The exceptional performer first masters the fundamentals. Only then can he elevate his craft. In broadcasting, they ask about microphones instead of ideas. In writing, they ask about style instead of substance. In coaching, they ask about strategy instead
of talent. In law, they ask about courtroom theatrics instead of judgment. The essentials come first. Everything else is an enhancement. Technology can improve prose, summarize documents and organize research in seconds. Those advances are valuable, even remarkable, but none answers the question that matters most: What do you actually think? If you have nothing worth saying, technology won’t rescue you. If you do have something worth saying, technology becomes a force multiplier, enabling you to communicate more clearly and more efficiently. Despite all the technological changes during my career — from computers and the internet to radio and podcasts and now to artificial intelligence — the secret remains the same. It applies to writing a column, hosting a radio show, giving a speech or leading a meeting. People still hunger for fresh ideas, honest observations and genuine insight. They still appreciate someone who can make sense of confusing events or articulate what others struggle to say. After all these years behind a microphone, through changing technologies and changing media, my answer remains the same. Every profession has an indispensable first principle. Miss it, and no amount of technique will save you. Have something to say. Larry Elder is an author and nationally syndicated radio talk show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com.)
A5
Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
New detention center ready, but staffing delays opening
Acting Sheriff and Chief Deputy Charles Weaver speaks to the Faison Town Board about staffing challenges, recruitment and patrol coverage during the Aug. 5 meeting.
REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL
Public safety takes focus at Faison board meeting The acting sheriff discussed recruitment and patrol coverage as the department works to address staffing shortages By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal FAISON OPENED its board meeting last Wednesday with a moment of silence for Ronnie Taylor, a Calypso town employee who died recently. Financial reports for the new fiscal year were also reviewed, highlighting significant early expenditures for items such as insurance. Parks and Recreation Director Matthew Scott updated the board on recreational sports. “We are wrapping up adult volleyball this Saturday, and we start basketball on Sunday,” Scott said. “We’ve started registration for soccer and volleyball for the fall.” Executive Administrator Jimmy Tyndall said that registration links had been sent out to previous users for the after-school program. “The links will remain open through Aug. 17 before we open to other new users,” Tyndall said. Tyndall said the ideal full capacity for the program would be 54 students, but it could be extended to 60. Acting Sheriff and Chief Deputy Charles Weaver spoke to the board about the transition of leadership in the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office and the
REVIEW from page A1 complaint are false, and they are easily dismissed,” Thompson told Duplin Journal. “Mt. Calvary looks forward to continuing its positive work serving the community, and it will not be distracted by meritless, politically motivated allegations.” Thompson said a formal response would be filed with the DOJ by the end of the week, which the organization expects will “clear up many questions and these highly disputed allegations.” Pender County Commissioner Chair Randy Burton also clarified his role in the inquiries surrounding the nonprofit. Burton said his communication with state authorities was focused on financial oversight and was separate from the citizen complaints. “It was a request to look into the financial reports of
department’s efforts to address staffing shortages. “I don’t want to wait for an election to handle what needs to be done; I want to handle it now,” Weaver said. He said the department has had significant turnover. Weaver said the department is facing challenges with recruitment and retention. He highlighted a disparity in pay scales that has resulted in the department losing officers to municipal agencies such as the Warsaw Police Department, which offers starting salaries of around $55,000, he said. Weaver said the current starting pay for the sheriff’s office is $5,000 less than it was a year ago. The department is currently operating with four officers per shift despite being allocated for six, Weaver said. He said the department is down approximately four patrol officers as well as several investigators in the narcotics and criminal divisions. The staffing shortages come as call volumes have increased, Weaver said. Deputies handle an estimated 10 to 12 calls daily, compared with about three calls per shift when Weaver began working on the road, he said. Weaver explained that the department has implemented a new north, central and south patrol car system designed to maximize coverage despite manpower limitations. “We’ve created more distance, more space,” Weaver told the board, noting that by positioning road sergeants more strategically, the department aims to improve response times
the NGO, that’s all my conversation with the auditor was,” Burton told Duplin Journal. “I don’t have anything to do with the actual complaints from other folks.” The controversy surfaced after complaints were filed with the North Carolina Department of Justice and the Office of the State Auditor regarding the operations of Mt. Calvary in mid-2026. These complaints, submitted by Pender County GOP executive board member Kim McGahey and Burton, include criminal, financial and administrative allegations. Publicly available tax and financial records show that salaries, compensation and employee benefits accounted for about 49% of the organization’s total revenue, while the listed program activities and related expenses accounted for about 1.8% of revenue.
Kornegay Insurance Two Locations Pink Hill / Mt. Olive 252.568.3911 / 919.658.6027 www.kornegayinsurance.com
and ensure a more consistent presence throughout the county. The board discussed its need for more police presence during high-activity periods to target issues like speeding and stoplight violations on Highways 117 and 403. The town is also preparing to change internet providers after Open Broadband could no longer provide service. Tyndall said the town will transition to Brightspeed, managed by IPM. “We have to find something else, and Brightspeed has the best deals,” said Tyndall. Brightspeed will cost $250 monthly for fiber internet and monitoring, and there will be a one-time $2,994 fee for equipment. The board approved the transition and the equipment upgrade, with funds moved from continuing education and maintenance budgets. They also approved budget amendments to finance the 2027 Fourth of July celebration and an amendment to continue returning security deposits to those who rent the Recreation Center. In other business, the board accepted the resignation of Sharon Lee and approved the hiring of Sharon Talton as a part-time bus driver and Valerie Palomo for a part-time recreation position. Both hires are pending verification. The meeting concluded with a discussion about a resident who used 9,100 gallons of water in less than half a month. The board made plans to offer a payment plan if the resident requested it.
• Mt. Calvary reported $2,410,025 in total revenue for the period from July 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024. • The organization reported $1,170,399 in salaries, other compensation and employee benefits. Tate reported $180,488 in compensation and an average of 25 hours of work per week for the organization. • The organization reported spending $43,417 on program activities, supplies, printing and youth trips. • Received $1.85 million in state grant allocations.
County officials say the 250-bed facility cannot open until enough detention officers are trained
“It’s taking a little bit of time to get people hired, and then we’ve got to get them trained.”
By Mark Grady and Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
Charles Weaver, Duplin County chief deputy
KENANSVILLE — The new Duplin County Detention Center has been completed, inspected and approved for occupancy, but the $43.3 million facility remains empty as county officials work to hire and train enough detention officers before it can open. The 57,700-square-foot detention center was built to replace the county’s aging jail after nearly three decades of advocacy by law enforcement and local officials to address chronic overcrowding, deteriorating infrastructure and operational challenges. As of Monday, according to the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office inmate confinement roster, the jail housed 130 inmates, well above its 95-bed capacity. The new detention facility will more than double that capacity to 250 inmates. In an interview with Duplin Journal, Duplin County Chief Deputy Charles Weaver, who is serving as acting sheriff since Sheriff Stratton Stokes resigned last month, said it is taking time to hire and train additional staff as the county navigates some changes. “The county implemented a new pay scale, and I think people are a little confused by it,” Weaver said. “I’m working with them, we’ve got things worked out.” According to Weaver, the current jail requires four detention officers per shift, while the new facility will require eight per shift.
“We are hiring jailers. We’ve hired several this month,” Weaver said. “It’s taking a little bit of time to get people hired, and then we’ve got to get them trained.” Existing detention officers have already been trained on a system that is entirely different from the one used in the current facility, Weaver said. Weaver said the new facility operates differently from the current jail, with more technology integrated into daily operations. The facility uses a watchtower system with computer-controlled functions such as door access, requiring detention officers to be properly trained before it opens. “It’s not a job where you can just walk in and sit there,” Weaver said. “It’s a safety issue, and we want to make sure everything’s in place like it should be.” Weaver could not provide a specific timeline for when the new detention facility will be fully staffed and occupied. “I would like to believe we would (be open) by the end of the year, but I can’t give you a specific time,” he said. Interim County Manager Lisa Hughes said that as far as all the official paperwork and inspections are concerned, the new detention center is ready to be occupied. “We have approval from the state to occupy the new facility, we just need to train the staff to make the transition,” Hughes told Duplin Journal.
Wallace taps state program to grow workforce, save taxpayer dollars A recent college graduate will gain municipal experience while supporting town projects By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal WALLACE — The town of Wallace is investing in the next generation of local government leaders while keeping costs low for taxpayers through a partnership with the UNC School of Government Lead for North Carolina program (LFNC). Charles “Chip” Roth, a 2026 graduate of Davidson College, began a 10-month municipal internship with the town Aug. 4. Roth, who earned bachelor’s degrees in history and French, will work alongside town staff on projects across multiple departments while gaining firsthand experience in municipal government. Town officials said the LFNC program benefits both participants and communities by preparing recent college graduates for careers in public service while providing municipalities with additional talent at a reduced cost. “The town pays only a nominal portion of the internship expenses,” wrote the town of Wallace in the announcement, explaining that the LFNC program funds
COURTESY TOWN OF WALLACE
Chip Roth
“The town pays only a nominal portion of the internship expenses.” Town of Wallace the majority of the internship. During the internship, Roth will assist with a variety of initiatives while developing skills in public administration, leadership and community engagement. Town officials said the partnership helps strengthen the town’s organizational capacity, advance important projects and make efficient use of taxpayer dollars.
A6
Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Nurses honor their own through Nightingale Tributes The volunteer group provides free tributes for nurses who have died and living tributes for those receiving hospice care
The appointments take effect on staggered dates throughout August
By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal A ROOM FALLS quiet as a group of nurses in white uniforms and navy capes stand together. A small lamp is lit, its flame steady as the nurses prepare to honor one of their own. The moment is part of a Nightingale Tribute, a brief ceremony performed by the Eastern North Carolina Nurse Honor Guard to honor nurses who have died, carrying out a tradition that recognizes their years of service to patients and their communities. The ceremony ends with a final call to duty and the presentation of the lamp to the family. Since 2018, the volunteer group has conducted 262 tributes across eastern North Carolina, including 46 this year. For the nurses performing the tribute, it is a way to recognize a colleague and the profession they shared. “Our organization is made up of nurses who are retired or actively working,” said Tracy Sobiesienski, a member of the ENC Nurse Honor Guard. The volunteer organization has more than 90 members serving 25 counties across eastern North Carolina. Sobiesienski said the organi-
WARSAW from page A1 Madden said Warsaw is currently in violation of its state discharge permit because of a failure in the disinfection process. Madden detailed ongoing wastewater issues involving C2NC and Villari, noting that the town is currently under pressure from the state to issue civil penalties for permit violations. He said failed disinfection has led to high levels of fecal coliform in Stewart’s Creek. Madden reported that the wastewater facility has been unable to provide enough chlorine to effectively kill bacteria because industrial waste products are “oxidizing” or “consuming” the chlorine before it can do its job. He pointed to a “gooey, stringy substance” discovered in the sewer system as a likely contributor to the disinfection struggles. The town has ordered testing of the material. Madden said Villari’s wastewater treatment upgrade has significantly improved the company’s compliance. He said the company previously had 30 or more violations per month but is now averaging about 10. Villari is still working on a system to remove chlorides from its meat-brining process, with a reverse-osmosis system expected in late 2026 or early 2027. Madden said C2NC’s original project was expected to cost about $100 million but grew to approximately $150 million, with another $4 million to $5 million spent recently to
Board approves new administrative appointments in Duplin schools By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal
COURTESY EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA NURSE HONOR GUARD
Carolyn Fletchers, seated, is surrounded by members of the Eastern North Carolina Nurse Honor Guard during a living tribute honoring her 58 years in nursing.
zation began after founder and chair Tabatha Hall saw a video in 2017 featuring a nurse honor guard in another state. She presented the idea to the Nurse Congress at Vidant, now ECU Health, and received approval to establish a similar program in North Carolina. The first Nightingale Tribute was held in March 2018. The group now serves communities from Duplin, Pitt and Onslow counties to Beaufort and
Currituck. Families are often referred through funeral directors, hospice nurses or friends. The Honor Guard also offers living tributes for nurses receiving hospice care, allowing them to receive the recognition while they are still able to participate. Each honored nurse receives a white rose, commemorative blanket, handkerchief, certificate and honorary membership in the organization. For the nurses who perform the tributes, the ceremony recognizes more than a profession. It marks a lifetime of service — long shifts, missed holidays, difficult decisions and the everyday work of caring for patients. Every ceremony is provided free of charge. For more information, email encnursehonorguard@yahoo.com.
address operational problems. The town has an approved enforcement response plan calling for civil penalties, but it has not yet issued penalties because it lacked an established method for determining amounts. Madden said the state requested changes to the town’s proposed penalty system and wants individual violations to receive separate penalties. The meeting also included a discussion of disagreements between Boykin and Town Manager Lea Turner over communication and agenda items. Boykin said some items he submitted in writing, including matters involving the town attorney and closed sessions, were not included on the agenda. Turner said a family emergency had limited her time in the office. Boykin said the disagreements have also contributed to items being left off the agenda and what he described as “secret meetings” with state officials. Boykin also raised questions about town hall security footage. He said he was told the cameras did not exist or were not working despite previously being told they were operational. Wells asked the interim town attorney to work with the town manager and town clerk to ensure access to outstanding public records requests. “I’ve made numerous requests in regards to receiving public records information,” said Wells. “These requests have been repeatedly made over the past couple years.”
The board then discussed a breach of sensitive employee information after a personnel document was discovered in the town hall parking lot. Boykin had previously reported the discovery to Duplin Journal during a July 1 interview. He said the employee who found the document and alerted him has not been identified to protect the person from retaliation. Boykin said he photographed the document to have “proof,” arguing that without the photo, the report would merely be his “word.” At the time of the interview, he said he was waiting to address it in closed session. The document, titled “Supplemental Retirement Income Plan,” was dated May 20, 2026. It contained detailed columns for employee names, full Social Security numbers, 401(k) contributions and specific amounts for loan payments taken out by at least five employees. According to town officials, only the town manager and the payroll clerk have access to personnel records. The circumstances surrounding how the document ended up in the town’s parking lot were the subject of debate. Ultimately, the board voted to have the manager research comprehensive credit protection for all employees and board members. The meeting adjourned after the board declined to enter a final scheduled closed session and instead ended the public meeting following the commissioners’ reports.
“Our organization is made up of nurses who are retired or actively working.” Tracy Sobiesienski
KENANSVILLE — The Duplin County Board of Education approved several personnel assignments and reclassifications during its Aug. 4 meeting, filling leadership positions across the school district. These leadership changes, recommended by Duplin County Schools Superintendent Daren Tyndall, are set to take effect throughout August 2026, impacting both the central administration and specific school campuses. “Duplin County Schools is proud to recognize these dedicated professionals stepping into new roles across our district,” said Tyndall. The following individuals have been appointed to new leadership roles within the district. • Dara Bailey: Appointed
as chief assistant to the superintendent for Duplin County Schools, effective Aug. 7.
“Duplin County Schools is proud to recognize these dedicated professionals stepping into new roles across our district.” Superintendent Daren Tyndall • Sharnell Dixon: Appointed as assistant principal at James Kenan High School, effective Aug. 10.
• Raymond Pearson:
Appointed as assistant principal at Rose HillMagnolia Elementary School, effective Aug. 10.
• Dennis Sutton: Appointed as director of maintenance for Duplin County Schools, effective Aug. 17.
Tyndall emphasized that these professionals were selected for their “leadership, commitment and steady focus on students,” noting that their new roles are intended to move the district’s mission forward and strengthen the schools.
Schools prepare for students’ return Board members approved contracts, donations and six flex days By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — Concerns about maintenance staffing across the district were addressed by the board and Superintendent Daren Tyndall at the North Duplin Board of Education’s Aug. 4 meeting. “The principals that have requested extra help reached out to (Roger) Jones, and he has sent individuals out to provide the help,” Tyndall said in response to a question from Vice Chairman Reginald Kenan. “We are also working towards bringing a committee of head custodians together to work with Mr. Jones to plan for next summer and how we might be able to do things a little differently,” Tyndall said. Board members said principals needing additional help have coordinated with Jones and expressed confidence
schools would be ready before teachers return. In the consent agenda, the board approved several agreements concerning health education and services and accepted donations totaling $50,800 for mental health and school nurse programs. The board also approved lawn care services, short-term contracts, and student and employee handbooks for the 2026-27 school year. The board also approved an application for $25,000 in Education Lottery building repair and renovation funds to repair a damaged gutter and downspout at Chinquapin Elementary School. Additionally, the board approved the auction sale of modular units at East Duplin that generated $66,440.25 after auctioneer fees. The board unanimously approved six flex days for staff during the 2026-27 school year. Duplin Early College High School staff returned Aug. 3, while traditional 10-month employees returned Monday. Open house is scheduled for Aug. 18, and the first day of school is Aug. 24.
DUPLIN SPORTS Rebounding Rebels “The work ethic has been tremendous as we were getting 50 kids a day during summer workouts.” Hugh Martin
ND looks to stay in the upper echelon of 2A schools while rebuilding following a historic three-year stretch By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal CALYPSO — Football coaches often say they do not know their starting lineup until a few days before kickoff. It’s not a smoke job at North Duplin, which is looking to replace players who were multiyear starters. The Rebels’ remarkable 29-3 stretch the past three seasons ended the era of defensive end Trashawn Rufin, running
back Carell Phillips, linebacker Ethan Turnage, defensive tackle Issac Davis and defensive back Garris Warren. ND will have a tough time replacing their talent and leadership and are without a doubt rebuilding a new team with a handful of returnees and varsity newcomers. “What people tend to forget is that’s a lot of lost learning from your program,” said head coach Hugh Martin, entering his 25th season as a gridiron general. “We do our best to teach young ones, who are still learning our terminology and how to execute. We lost voices in practice and games that have been speaking for the past two, three, four years.
So it’s not only their ability.” His club scrimmaged North Edgecombe last week and was to face Martin County, Rosewood, Northside-Pinetown and Manteo in preparation for an Aug. 21 regular season kickoff against Southside-Chocowinity. Backfield under construction The Rebels’ first five games, including the opener, will be contested in the friendly confines of H.E. Grubbs Stadium. “We did some things well in our scrimmage and of course found plenty of things to work on,” Martin said. “Defensively, we ran to the ball well. We had a lot of hats flying to it and one time over-pursued and it cost us.” “Offensively, we executed our See REBELS, page B2
MICHAEL JAENICKE / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Richlands players finish off a practice pushing a sled.
’Cat seniors want to prove they belong Second-year coach William Good says Richlands can be competitive in the Coastal Conference By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
RICHLANDS — While others bash the Coastal Conference, Richlands head coach William Good has another take on the league. “It’s one of the toughest in eastern North Carolina,” he said. “Every team (with the exception of Swansboro) went to the playoffs. And four of them went deep.” Indeed, last season was a boom for the loop as once invisible Havelock (7-6) was pushed by Northside-Jacksonville (11-3) and Croatan (11-2), and all three wound up with 5-1 Coastal marks. That left West Carteret (7-5, 3-3) and Richlands (3-8) in the middle of the field. The top three seems to be ready for the season, and it’s hard to count out either the Patriots or Wildcats. “Every game will be a fight,” Good said. “We’re not big nor fast, but I want us to be one of the most disciplined teams.” Richlands will have a new quarterback in senior Chase Boutwell, who is getting pushed by sophomore Pedro Castro. Graduate signal caller CJ DiBenedetto threw for 1,252 yards and nine touchdowns last fall as Richlands’ biggest offensive threat. The running game supplied just 349 yards. “How much we pass depends on how well we run the ball,” Good said. “We can’t put ourselves See WILDCATS, page B4
ND is expecting big things from running back Jayden Pope.
Talented Crusaders backfield seeking open Wing-T lanes How HCA’s O-line comes together is a key to the team’s season By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal HARRELLS — Football coaches tend to worry about their teams’ weaknesses. This fall, Clayton Hall wants the core foundation of his football team to complement the flash of speed of its backfield. Adding quarterback DJ Davis to running back Jeremiah Davis with a dash of fullback Demetrius Jones will be Harrells Christian Academy’s offensive plan of action this season.
Oh, that’s if the Crusaders fortify their O-line play. “No one sees it if you have a weakness up front, and being that our skill positions are our best strength, we need our line to come together,” said Hall, who hopes veteran linemen Sam McKeithan and Noah Tanner can mentor and unify their mates. “We’ve got a ton of players on the outside of them who can make plays.” HCA went 9-3 last season via the legs of its backs and the arm of graduate signal caller Reid Strickland. DJ Davis, who transferred from East Duplin two weeks ago, threw for about the same
number of yards as Strickland yet has the wheels to take off for the first-down marker. It’s an added dimension to Hall’s Wing-T offense, which NCISAA schools don’t often see. “We fight in the box and teams from Raleigh and Charlotte hate playing us, though all we see is spread offenses,” Hall said. The new Crusader was a key runner who supported two other backs — Shawn Davis and Aaron Hall — and played a key role defensively. “It was an easy transition for him, and he’s more of a running quarterback who gives us all See HCA, page B4
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
HCA head coach Clayton Hall calls the offensive shots for the Crusaders.
Our team has 50 years of combined experience focusing on Duplin County real estate. How can we help you? 910-290-2194
facebook.com/SimpsonRE
Curt Simpson, Broker in Charge
B2
Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Love of football leads James to flag football position
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
SPONSORED BY BILL CARONE
%LOO &DURQH 7+$1. $
Richlands’ first flag football coach, Jessica James, is married to a grid coach and has six children playing the game
)$50(5 7,0(6 $ '$<
:DOODFH 1 &
Ronald Ramirez
By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal RICHLANDS — Jessica James can’t get enough football in her life. James, who teaches foods and nutrition at Richlands High School and is the school’s FCA coordinator, is a gridiron junky, though some of it may come from her environment. James’ husband, Darrell, is an assistant football coach at Northside-Jacksonville, while their six children — Owen, 15; Jonathan, 14; Ethan, 12; Holden, 9; and twins Gavin and Cannon, 4 — all suit up in the fall. Yet her game is played with three flags, a mouthpiece and cleats. “Obviously, I have a very big football background,” she said with a laugh. Richlands is having tryouts Aug. 29 for female athletes as one of the few schools in eastern North Carolina to take up flag football after the NCHSAA recently approved it as a sanctioned sport. “This was sprung on everyone very quick, but we had 70 girls at our interest meeting,” James said. “We can only have 21 on our roster, and since it’s
CONTRIBUTED
Jessica James the fall, I think we’ll have a lot of soccer players show up.” Girls’ flag football is bigger in Charlotte and Raleigh, and it’s starting to catch on in Wilmington. Yet Jacksonville has a club team for the past two years. “It’s catching on and will be really big next year,” James said. “I learned a lot at a clinic in Goldsboro. But really, we’re all going to be learning this together. The state is still clarifying questions that arise. It’s a learning process.” Indeed, flag football is one of the fastest-growing participatory sport in the U.S. Colorado, Florida and Georgia are some of the recent states to sanction the sport at a high school level. “Colleges are fielding teams,
and it is an Olympic sport in 2028,” James said. The Carolina Panthers are offering a $2,500 stipend for any school that tackles flag football, and Richlands was the lone school in Onslow, Duplin, Pender or Wayne counties to take the ball and run its own program. “It’s basically 7-on-7 with an 80-yard field,” said James, who also reported that injuries are nothing like football that is streamed on Fridays and watched endlessly on Saturdays and Sundays. James’ assistant coach, Ashanti Harris, played flag football at North Carolina A&T for four years and for a time in a professional circuit. More than 100 colleges and universities offer club or varsity flag football across the NCAA, NAIA and NJCAA, which serve as a complement to the numerous intramural teams, according to NFL Flag. More than 60 NCAA schools offer flag football, and female athletes can receive scholarships, NIL deals and national team invitations. James said Richlands might not be able to play against another team until Sept. 7. “A couple of schools around here are still considering it,” she said. “I’m excited about the possibilities, especially for players, who have a chance to play the game in college and get a scholarship.”
REBELS from page B1 EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
James Kenan, boys’ soccer He’s back. Ronald Ramirez has returned to the soccer pitch for James Kenan. Ramirez, a first-team all-Duplin County player in 2024, was a top-scoring midfielder who scored 30 and 14 goals in consecutive seasons. He missed his junior campaign but got back in action during a jamboree. Ramirez is needed as JK seeks to build its offense around Ismael Covarrubias, Devis Gomez and Gerzon Diaz. Last week, Ramirez had two assists during a 3-0 scrimmage win over Lakewood. He added two more assists when the Tigers beat Southern Wayne 4-2. Look for JK to return to form after a rare and disappointing 10-10-2 season in ’25.
NOTICE The Duplin County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 in the Duplin County Administrative Building, Commissioners Meeting Room located at 224 Seminary St, Kenansville, NC to consider public input on the naming of the following private roads:
Location
Proposed Name
1715 2600 4200 S NC 11 4200 S NC 11
Back Forty Ln Calloway Dr Emerson Ln
Only those roads listed will be considered at this time. Duplin County Board of Commissioners Jaime Carr, Clerk to the Board
base runs, and while it wasn’t perfect, we saw a comfort level. For some players, it was their first live varsity scrimmage. What’s important is that we now have tape to show our players when they missed a tackle, how a play could have been sprung with a block and things of that nature.” Rebuilding at ND is different than most schools, though one of the smallest 2A schools in the state had 58 grid players on two squads, marking the fourth season in a row in which the Rebels fielded a junior varsity team. “The work ethic has been tremendous as we were getting 50 kids a day during summer workouts,” Martin said. While the head coach has concerns about his two lines, he’s more than likely going to use a “running back by committee” approach. The last three seasons, Phillips (4,876 yards, 67 TDs) has been a one-man show. He averaged 211 carries in ’24 and ’25 when he only failed to reach the 100-yard mark in one game. That’s the consistency Martin is looking for with his pack of backs, which leads off with senior Jayden Pope (78-597, 6 TDs). Juniors Messiah Cooper and Cole Grady will likewise be toting the pig. Newcomers Damarion Smith and Devin Carlton, both freshmen, will also get a chance to make a mark. Fullback Noa Quintanilla and quarterback Brock Keiz revisit roles from a season ago. Building Rebel lines in trenches The offensive line is anchored by guards Noah Bennett and
Hugh Martin makes a point during a recent practice.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Bryan Montes, center Brady Kelly, and tackles Josh Favilia and Iusa Aguirre, who appear to have the inside edge as the competition is keen on the line. Guards Wilson Rouse and Elias Romero, tackle Zander Twist and center/tackle Marquis Frederick will seek playing time to block for the Rebels’ mostly Wing-T attack that runs between the hash marks. Ben Kelly is the tight end, though Jackson Lee and Jayden Clemmons will see action. Brady Kelly, Bennett and Montes will be key defensive linemen, though Bennett is currently getting over an injury. Look for Jose Bartolo, Eufronio Perez and Twist to shuffle in as needed. Ben Kelly, Lee and Clemmons will play roles as outside linebackers with Quintanilla and Rouse on the inside. Grady, Cooper, Smith and Pope are corners, while Rimi Villalon is the safety and will placekick and punt. Quintanilla likewise has a strong fourth-down foot. Brock and freshman Bryce Foster will likewise get time at safety. “We still have a lot of position battles,” Martin said. “It’s not a matter of one or two spots.”
Carolina Conference looks like power league Martin went on the offensive when he found out Spring Creek was playing a junior varsity schedule and connected with 3A Midway for a game. That means ND will face Lakewood, Midway, East Bladen and rising West Columbus, led by quarterback DJ Graham (1,982 yards, 19 TDs), in consecutive weeks, and then finish with East Columbus and Hobbton. The conference race appears to be wide open with as many as five teams feeling they can be loop champs. ND won 10 games the previous two seasons. It will take some work to get to that level this fall. The Rebels face longtime rivals Lakewood and Hobbton at home but otherwise are a road team in just three of their 10 games. Yet visits to the CC’s newest schools — East Bladen, West Columbus and East Columbus — are longer than normal road trips. Martin’s gang must step up near the end of September when the schedule has formidable foes. Southside-Chocowinity, Rosewood and Jones Senior are lead-up games to the meatier part of the schedule.
TOWN OF BEULAVILLE REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES The Town of Beulaville has received a Community Development Block Grant-Neighborhood Revitalization (CDBG-NR) award in the amount of $950,000 by the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC) Rural Economic Development Division (REDD) for the 2025 CDBG-NR Project which includes approximately 3,900 LF of street overlay improvements throughout the Town. The project will take place over the next 30 months. The Town is proposing to provide approximately 3,900 LF street overlay improvements throughout Town. The Town Board of Commissioners are soliciting requests for qualifications for professional engineering services to assist the Town in
subsequent engineering design and bid package services and construction inspection services related to the project once release of funds is received. All work for this project will be conducted to ensure compliance with all applicable federal requirements and regulations under the North Carolina CDBGNR Program. Engineering payment terms will be negotiated with the selected firm. The fee for professional engineering services will be paid with CDBG funds. Copies of the detailed request for qualifications (RFQ), including a description of the services to be provided by respondents, the minimum content of responses, and the factors to be used to evaluate the responses, can be obtained by contacting Lori Williams, Town Manager, at 910-298-4647 or by visiting Town Hall located at 508 E Main St, Beulaville, NC 28518 The above information should be submitted no later than August 25, 2026, 2:00 p.m. to Lori Williams, Town of Beulaville,
508 E Main St, Beulaville, NC 28518. For more information, contact Lori Williams, Town Manager, at 910-298-4647. The Town of Beulaville is an Equal Opportunity Employer/ Housing and invites the submission of proposals from minority and women-owned firms, historically underutilized businesses, and certified/registered Section 3 business concerns. This information is available in Spanish or any other language upon request. Please contact Town Manager at 910-298-4647 or at 508 E Main St, Beulaville, NC 28518 for accommodations for this request. Esta información está disponible en español o en cualquier otro idioma bajo petición. Por favor, póngase en contacto con Town Manager al 910-298-4647 o en 508 E Main St, Beulaville, NC 28518 de alojamiento para esta solicitud. Date: August 6, 2026 Hutch Jones, Mayor Equal Housing Opportunity
B3
Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
North Duplin Rebels
Harrells Christian
Richlands Wildcats
Coach: Hugh Martin
Coach: Hugh Martin
Coach: William Good
2 .........Cole Grady.......................... RB/DB .................Jr.
1 ..........Demetrius Jones ............... FB/DB ..................Jr.
1 ..........Camden Warren................. WR/ DB/P ...........Sr.
3 .........Ben Kelly ............................. TE/LB ..................Sr.
2 .........Jeremiah Davis .................. HB/CB .................Sr.
2 .........Payton Hughes .................. MLB/ TE ..............Sr.
4 .........Messiah Cooper................. RB/DB .................Jr.
3 .........DJ Davis .............................. QB/CB/FS...........Sr.
3 ........Cameron Moore................. DB/WR ................Jr.
5 .........Jayden Pope ....................... RB/DB .................Sr.
5 .........Will Owen ............................ WR/C ...................Sr.
4 .........Camden Good .................... RB/LB ..................Sr.
7 .........Rimi Villalon ........................ RB/DB .................Jr.
7 .........Amir Moore ........................ TE/DE/DT ...........Sr.
5 .........Gabriel Mentor ................... RB/DB .................Sr.
9 .........Henry Pope......................... QB/DB .................So.
8 .........Riley Falatovich .................. WB/QB/FS .......... Jr.
6 .........Braylen Allen ...................... CB/WR ................Sr.
10 ....... Keiz Brock .......................... QB/DB .................Sr.
9 .........Matthew Wilson ................. WB/DE .................Sr.
7 .........Isaiah Betton ...................... K............................ Sr.
12........Jackson Lee........................ TE/LB ..................Sr.
12........ Javion Peterson ................ HB/DB/LB. .........Sr.
8 .........Jamari Watson ................... RB/DE/LB ...........Sr.
14........Devin Carlton ..................... RB/DB .................Fr.
15........ Chance Evans .................... WR/K ...................So.
9 .........Chase Boutwell .................. QB/WR ................Sr.
21........Bryce Foster ....................... RB/DB .................Fr.
20 .......Landon Pusey .................... WB/TE /DB .........So.
12........Nicholas Mullins................. LB/TE .................. Sr.
23 .......Braydon Brock ................... RB/DB .................Jr.
21........Hayes Clifton ..................... FB/LB ..................Fr.
13........Pedro Castro ...................... QB/DB .................So.
24 .......Bentley Hughes ................. RB/LB ..................So.
22 .......JC Carr ................................ HB/DB ................So.
14........Baylee Rathe ...................... RB/DB/QB ..........Jr.
26 .......Damarion Smith ................ RB/DB .................Fr.
23 .......Holt Campbell .................... TE/DB .................Fr.
15........Nathaniel Littreal ............... RB/LB .................Jr.
30 .......Jaylin Rouse ....................... RB/DB .................Sr.
50 .......Colton Little ........................ OT/DT .................Fr.
16........Wyatt Thornton ................. LB/RB ..................Jr.
32 .......Reyangel Flores ................. TE/LB ..................Jr.
51 ........Jessiah Sawyer .................. OT/LB ..................So.
21........Qaivon Allen ....................... DB/WR ................Sr.
44 .......Noa Quintanilla .................. FB/LB ..................Sr.
52 .......Trey Owen ........................... OT/DT ..................Sr.
22 .......Anthony Kohler-Howard ... RB/LB ..................Jr.
50 .......Elias Romero ...................... OL/DL ..................Sr.
54 .......Sam McKeithan ................. OG/LB .................Sr.
23 .......Khalil Wright ....................... WR/DB ................Sr.
51 ........Joshua Favilia ..................... OL/DL ..................Jr.
55 .......Caven Chambers ............... C/OG/DE.............Jr.
25 .......Richard West ...................... RB/LB ..................Jr.
52 .......Logan Taylor....................... OL/LB ..................Jr.
56 .......Noah Tanner....................... OG/LB .................Sr.
44 .......Wyatt Smith ....................... DE/TE .................. Jr.
53 .......Noah Bennett ..................... OL/DL ..................Jr.
58 .......Cooper Sasser ................... OT/OG..................Fr.
50 .......Alejandro Cruz ................... OL/DL ..................Jr.
54 .......Eymer Chilel ....................... OL/DL ..................Sr.
60 .......Henry Stevens ................... OG/DT .................Fr.
52 .......Timothy Jones ................... OL/DL ..................Sr.
55 .......Justin Grandy ..................... OL/DL ..................Jr.
62 .......Lathen Cashwell ................ OT/DE/ DT .........Jr.
53 .......Caleb Jackson .................... OL/DL ..................Jr.
56 .......Isua Aguirre ........................ OL/DL ..................Sr.
65 .......Taylor Stampe.................... C/OT/DT..............Fr.
54 .......James Mitchell ................... OL/DL ..................Sr.
57 .......Landon Pate ....................... OL/DL ..................Sr.
66 .......Brewer Britt ........................ OG/DT .................Fr.
55 .......Jamison Saunders............. OL/DL ..................Jr.
58 .......Wilson Rouse...................... OL/LB ..................Sr.
71 ........Joseph Mejia ...................... OT/DT .................Fr.
56 .......Jayden Braswell ................. DL/OL ..................Sr.
59 .......Brady Kelly ......................... OL/DL ..................Jr.
80 .......Miller Ludlum ..................... WR/DE .................Jr.
57 .......Erick Polingo ...................... DL .........................Jr.
62 .......Alejandro Zavala ................ OL/DL ..................So.
88 .......Jerman Ayllon .................... WR/DB ................Sr.
58 .......Joel Roberts ....................... OL/DL ..................Sr.
63 .......Jose Bartolo ....................... OL/DL ..................Jr.
66 .......Kaleb Sparks ...................... OL/DL ..................Sr.
64 .......Zayvon Dixon ..................... OL/DL ..................Jr.
71 ........Ayden Straub ..................... OL/DL ..................Sr.
65 .......Bryan Montes..................... OL/DL ..................Sr. 68 .......Jose Guz.-Flores ................ OL/DL ..................Sr.
Crusaders at a Glance
70 .......Eufronio Perez ................... OL/DL ..................Sr.
Coach: Clayton Hall (entering third season)
73 .......Marquis Frederick.............. OL/DL ..................Sr.
Career record: 15-7.
75 .......Porter Best ......................... OL/DL ..................So.
Coaching staff: (OC) Clayton Hall, (DC) Steve Mallard, Tracey Thornton, Bryan Merriman, Jonathan Carr, Josh Rackley, Winfred Johnson, Nolan Hall, Greg Moore
76 .......Zander Twist ...................... OL/DL ..................So. 77 .......Rodrigo Olivos .................... OL/DL ..................Sr. 82 .......Mitchell Hardy .................... RB/LB ..................Sr. 85 .......Jayden Clemmons ............ TE/DE ..................Sr.
Record 2025: 9-3, lost in second round of NCISAA’s 2A state playoffs
Rebels at a Glance
State titles: 12 in NCISAA (1971-73, 1977, 1986-89, 1993, 2003, 2005, 2008)
Record 2025: 10-2, tied for first in CC (5-1) with Hobbton. Lost to Edenton Holmes 34-28 in overtime in the third round of the 2A playoffs. Coach: Hugh Martin (22nd season at ND) Career record: 159-125. ND (141-102 from 2006-25), East Duplin (18-23 from 1990-93). State titles: 1972. ND was 2A Division II runner-up in 1981 and 1A runner-up in 1975. Notable: Went to 1A title games under Martin in 2007 and 2017. Martin was assistant coach at 2023 Shrine Bowl of the Carolinas. He is 22nd in all-time wins among current N.C. coaches. Coaching staff: Brad Rhodes, Grant Lee, Daniel Cates, Wilfredo Puac, Colton Chrisman Key losses: RB Carrell Phillips, DL/TE Trashawn Ruffin, LB Ethan Turnage, OL/DL Issac Davis, DB Wesley Holmes, DB Garris Warren, LB Austin Wolfe Key returnees: RB Jayden Pope, LB Noa Quintanilla, DE/LB Brady Kelly, G Bryan Montes, G Joshus Favilia, DL Noah Bennett, LB/TE Jayden Clemmons, OSLB Jackson Lee, QB/DB Keiz Brock.
Key returnees: Sr. RB Jeremiah Davis (103-1,143, 14 TDs), Sr. RB Demetrius Jones (75-383, 7 TDs), OL/DL Amir Moore (54 tackles, 5.5 sacks), LB Noah Tanner (63 tackles), Sr. G/LB/K Sam McKeithan (46 tackles), QB/DB/WR Riley Falatovich (33 tackles, 2 INTs), transfer QB/DB DJ Davis (40-383 for 383 yards, 7 TDs, 7.7 tackles at East Duplin in ’25), Key losses: QB Reid Strickland (43-86 for 823 yards, 13 TDs), RB/SE/DB Dashaun McKoy (35-269, 4 TD, 15-426, 6 TDs receiving, 46 tackles, 5 INTs), FB Jarrod Miller (86-694, 11 TD), WB/WR Chamani Newton, OL/DL Xander Garcia (45 tackles), DB Davis Bradshaw (49 tackles), OL/DL Jesse Smith (46 tackles, 6 sacks), FB/LB J’Kaeshi Brunson (32 tackles), The skinny: HCA has enough talent to compete with nearly every 2A school, though High Point Christian is the current superpower. They are No. 1 in the MaxPreps rankings. The Asheville School is second, Trinity third and HCA fourth. Hickory Grove, Covenant Day and Wayne Christian, all on the Crusaders’ schedule, are fifth, sixth and seventh, respectively.
76 ......Cooper Seese .................... OL/DL ..................Jr. 77 .......Elijah White ......................... DL/OL ..................Sr.
Wildcats at a Glance Coach: William Good (entering second season) Career record: 3-8 overall, 2-4 in Coastal 5A/6A, lost first round of playoffs Coaching staff: Eddie Floyd, Reed Schumann, Shayvon Kornegay, Matthew Boutwell, Karl Jackson, Keith Littreal, Jason Spruill Record 2023: 3-8 overall, 2-4 in Coastal Conference Key returnees: MLB Payton Hughes (9.1 tackles), Sr. RB Camden Good, Sr. OL/DL Joel Roberts (3.8 tackles), Sr. K Isaiah Betton (6-10 FG), LB Jamari Watson, QB/WR Chase Boutwell. Key losses: QB CJ DiBenedetto (90-1778 for 1,252 yards, 9 TDs), Sr. WR Tyler Clouatre (17-613, 6 TDs receiving), Sr. DL Tre’Vaun Flannigan (6.1 tackles), Sr. RB/DB Darryl Jackson (2-114), Sr. WR/QB Cale Wilges, Sr, LB TJ Bratcher (4.5 tackles), Beau Mills (6.7 tackles). The skinny: Last season, Richlands beat archrival Southwest Onslow for the fourth straight time. The Stallions won the previous 32 encounters. Croatan, Northside-Jacksonville and Havelock tied for the Coastal Conference title, with Richlands and West Carteret (6-6, 3-3) extremely competitive. The same could be said of Dixon (7-5, 3-3). Even Swansboro (2-8, 0-8) showed significant improvement, falling in OT to East Carteret, by a point to West Carteret and by a 14-0 count against the Wildcats.
The skinny: ND won 10 games the previous two seasons, but the Rebels look to be in a tough conference. They tied Hobbton for first in the CC with a 5-1 mark, yet East Bladen and Lakewood were both 4-2 in league play. In addition, West Columbus will be vastly improved. ND will have to go without one of its all-time leading rushers (Carrell Phillips) and UNC recruit Trashawn Ruffin. The Rebels play seven of 10 games at H.E. Grubbs Stadium. ND scored 447 points last season while giving up 153, and it will likely have closer games this fall. Its defense must play well early as the offense has changed in terms of personnel, even though the Rebels are running the same offensive and defensive schemes.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Amir Moore and Riley Falatovich work to take down a foe last season. Both will be key for HCA this fall.
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Richlands is looking to get more production from its running attack this season.
Extend the life of your unit! Call us, we will fix it!
Schedule Your Appointment Today!
richsheatandairnc.com | 910-285-5522 | 4426 S NC 11, Wallace, NC
Certified/trained technicians, dispatch texts alerts when they are on the way to you, professional attitudes and quality service, diagnostic testing on the spot, well stocked vans with parts, on call technicians
B4
Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
HCA from page B1 kinds of shotgun action,” Hall said. “I’ve had one in 19 years who could run and pass it into the end zone.” He will likely be a great second or third option for Jeremiah Davis, who last season had a breakout season that included 1,143 yards and 14 touchdowns while averaging 11.1 yards per carry. “He’s a little more confident and a little more shifty, yet it’s his added confidence that is the biggest difference from last season,” Hall said. “The game slows down with his athleticism and speed.” Jones (75-383, 7 TDs) split time with Jarrod Miller last season at fullback and will be taking a bigger role as Miller transferred to Wallace-Rose Hill. “He’s fast, and when he gets an opening he can take it to the house,” Hall said. Another playmaker could be Riley Falatovich, who will be a wing back. “He can play any backfield position and wide receiver too,” Hall said. “He’s a weapon.” So too might be Amir Moore, a 6-foot-7, 270-pound NC State recruit who plays tight end. And that position is central in the Wing-T. D-fence, D-fence Yet Moore’s bigger contributions could come on defense. “We’re getting him to give everything he has and then give him breaks,” Hall said. “We need him defensively.” Matthew Wilson, Lathen Cashwell and Trey Owens join Moore on the line. McKeithan, Tanner and Javion Peterson will be linebackers. DJ Davis and Jeremiah Davis are cornerbacks with Falatovich at safety and Jones
Jeremiah Davis was one of the best running backs in the NCISAA last season.
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 FILE NUMBER: 26SP000052-300
EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL
and JC Carr as defensive backs. “This team has to be a little better at the little things,” Hall said. “Last year, we made mistakes and (Dashaun McKoy) and a few others would make up for it with pure athleticism. “I also feel like we have to force turnovers. We practice team tackling and do strip circle drills in practice. And like I said before, we have to make some noise up front.” HCA is on the road the first two weeks of the season. It hosts the Christ School on Sept. 4 at Murphy-Johnson Stadium. There are only five teams in the NCISAA’s Big East Conference. Trinity Christian (Fayetteville) is the power player, though North Raleigh Christian and Ravenscroft are
games HCA must play its best to win. “The past five years or so it’s come down to us and Trinity, and it’s always a big one on the last Friday of the season,” Hall said. “But Ravenscroft is a huge rival, and North Raleigh always plays us hard.” Muscle memo board There’s an achievement list on a board inside the weight room at HCA, and McKeithan’s 1,210-pound total makes him the Crusaders’ No. 1 lifter. It’s a combination of his bench, squat, dead lift and power clean numbers. Tanner (1,170) is second, Jessiah Smith (1,045) third, Peterson (980) fourth and Cashwell (970) fifth.
WILDCATS from page B1 in bad positions on second and third downs. We have to set ourselves up to control the pace of the game and get our coaches to find a flow of getting kids on and off the field.” Senior Jamari Watson and Gabe Mentor, and juniors Baylee Rathe, Anthony Howard and Cameron Moore will be toting the pig for the Wildcats. “It’s about ball control and running the clock,” Good said. “This senior group is eager to win the close games that got away from us. We had too many three-and-outs last year, and it put too much pressure on our defense.” Tight end Payton Hughes and wideouts Camden Warren, Braylen Allen and Khalil Wright are potential throwing targets for Boutwell. Richlands’ defense has been a key to success the past three seasons, even as the offense struggled. “We lost some players that have big shoes to fill, no doubt, on both sides,” Good said. Seniors Joel Roberts, Elijah White and Watson, and junior Wyatt Smith will see time in the defensive trenches. Hughes, one of the better ’backers in the area, will join Camden Good and Wyatt Thornton as linebackers. Qaivon Allen and Braylen Allen will play at the corners, while Moore is at safety. Richlands starts out the season with a rivalry against Southwest Onslow and stays in the hot seat with games against White Oak, 4A power East Duplin and South Bruns-
TAKE NOTICE
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 FortyFive 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 SALE Tenant:
Benton, Ann ...................................... D61311 Duffy, Steve & Zoey .......................... 350718 Hicks, John ....................................... D66284 Kravitz, Annette ............................... D50609 Locklear, Blair ................................... D66482 Register, William ............................... 705010
MICHAEL JAENICKE / DUPLIN JOURNAL
Quarterback Chase Boutwell threw a number of pinpoint passes during a recent practice. wick before opening conference play with a trip to Havelock on Sept. 18. “It’s challenging, and even though we have several starters returning, we lost big players,” the coach said. “We’re tired of being a star on teams’ schedules for a win. “Our numbers are not up, but the kids we have out are excited and want it. We had a good summer with our num-
bers fluctuated from 30 to 35 and up to 65 kids. There was a lot of good to see at Pender. And also, many things in which we can work on. “Our kids are all 5-foot-10 to 6-2 and all weigh between 200 and 255. But they can really move. Our offensive line has to find its niche and work as a group. I’d like to think that’s one of our strengths. We’re an athletic team.”
Unit #
1-800-Pack-Rat (NC-Wallace-6154), 5752 US Hwy 117 S, Wallace, NC 28466, has possessory lien on all of the goods stored in the units above. All these items of personal property are being sold pursuant to the assertion of the lien on 8/18/2026 at 10:00 AM in order to collect the amounts due from you. The sale will take place on www.storagetreasures.com from 8/18/2026 to 8/25/2026 at 12:00 PM
TOWN OF BEULAVILLE – REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS GRANT ADMINISTRATION SERVICES The Town of Beulaville has received a Community Development Block Grant-Neighborhood Revitalization (CDBG-NR) award in the amount of $950,000 by the North Carolina Department of Commerce (NCDOC) for the 2025 CDBG-NR Project which includes 2 housing units to be rehabilitated/reconstructed and approximately 3,900 LF street overlay improvements throughout Town. The project will take place over the next 30 months. The Town Board of Commissioners are soliciting proposals for grant administration services to assist the Town in the administration and management of this project in compliance with all applicable requirements under the North Carolina
CDBG-NR Program. The fee for grant administration services will be paid with CDBG-NR funds. Copies of the detailed request for proposals (RFP), including a description of the services to be provided by respondents, the minimum content of responses, and the factors to be used to evaluate the responses, can be obtained by contacting Lori Williams, Town Manager, at 910-298-4647 or by visiting Town Hall located at 508 E Main St, Beulaville, NC 28518. The above information should be submitted no later than August 25, 2026, 2:00 p.m. to Lori Williams, Town of Beulaville, 508 E Main St, Beulaville, NC 28518. For more information, contact Lori Williams, Town Manager, at 910-298-4647. The Town of Beulaville is an Equal Opportunity Employer/
Housing and invites the submission of proposals from minority and women-owned firms, historically underutilized businesses, and certified/registered Section 3 business concerns. This information is available in Spanish or any other language upon request. Please contact Town Manager at 910-298-4647 or at 508 E Main St, Beulaville, NC 28518 for accommodations for this request. Esta información está disponible en español o en cualquier otro idioma bajo petición. Por favor, póngase en contacto con Town Manager al 910-298-4647 o en 508 E Main St, Beulaville, NC 28518 de alojamiento para esta solicitud. Date: August 6, 2026 Equal Housing Opportunity
Hutch Jones, Mayor
B5
Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
obituaries
Melba Carawan Weston June 24, 1937 – Aug. 1, 2026 Melba Carawan Weston, 89, passed away on Saturday, August 1, 2026. She is preceded in death by her spouse, Richard Elmer Weston, and a step-son, Leniol “Pete” Weston.All services are private. She is survved by step-so John Weston (Sally) of Wallace, NC; and grandsons William Robert Carawan and B.J. Lanier, both of Beulaville, NC.
Wendell Bowen July 31, 1960 – Aug. 4, 2026 Mr. Wendell Bowen, age 66, of Wallace, NC, passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at ECU Medical Center in Greenville, NC. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at 3:00 pm at the Newkirk Chapel Missionary Baptist Church, 2990 Willard Road, Willard, NC. Interment will follow at the African American Community Cemetery, 2190 Willard Road, Willard, NC 28478 Left to cherish his precious memories are his son: Marcus W. Bowen, Radford, VA; one aunt: Patricia Boney, SC; a host of cousins and friends that will miss him dearly.
Helen Esther Brown Henderson Sept. 22, 1934 – Aug. 4, 2026 Wallace-Helen Esther Brown Henderson, 91, of Wallace passed away Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at ECU Duplin. Mrs. Henderson was born September 22, 1934, in Duplin County to the late Ennis Brown and Florence Sholar Brown. A visitation will be held from 7 to 9 pm Friday, August 7, 2026, at Community Funeral Home of Rose Hill. Funeral services will be held at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Oakdale PFWB Church. Burial will follow in the Henderson Sholar Cemetery. Left to cherish her memory are daughter, Wanda Henderson; brothers, Clifton Brown and wife, Frances of Wallace, Jackie Brown of Harrells Store and half-brother, Bobby Mobley and wife, Love of Wallace; sisters, Doris Mott and Linda Mott and husband, J. W. both of Harrells Store; grandchildren, Michael, Timothy, Kendall, Joshua and Jonathan Hunter, Sabrina Sutton, David Henderson, Helen Hughes, and step grandchild Angie Mitchell; 19 great grandchildren and 9 step great grandchildren; 6 great great grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Henderson was preceded in death by her husband, Bronnie Henderson; sons, David Henderson and Donald Henderson; and great-grandson, Christopher Hunter; brothers, Jessie Ferrell Brown, James Roosevelt Brown and Woodrow Franklin Brown and Jimmy Lee Brown; sisters, Polly Louise Brown and Shirley B Thornton.
SPONSORED BY QUINN MCGOWEN FUNERAL HOME
Jamrica LeVar Pearsall
Linda Carol Kraulik
Nov. 5, 1978 – Aug. 4, 2026
Dec. 15, 1955 – Aug. 4, 2026
Jamrica LeVar Pearsall, 47, of Rose Hill, NC, passed away August 4, 2026, at ECU Health Duplin Hospital in Kenansville, NC. Funeral service will be 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at Hawes Funeral Home in Warsaw. Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at Hawes Funeral Home.
Linda Carol Kraulik, 70, of Magnolia, NC, passed from this earthly life to her eternal rest on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at ECU Health in Greenville after a lengthy illness. She was born on December 15, 1955, in Harvey County, Kansas to William Clinton and Dolores Bradshaw Kraulik Smith. She was also preceded in death by her brother Donald Kraulik, nephew Ethan Kraulik, and stepfather William C. Smith. Linda was an Optometric Assistant with Optometric Associates in Wallace for 40 years until her health caused her to have to retire. Surviving to cherish her memory is her fiancé James Eugene Baker, Sr. of Magnolia; her sister Janice Peterson of Wallace; brother Gary Kraulik and wife Bonnie of Turkey; niece Hannah Kraulik and Gracie Brigman; nephews Ethan Brigman and Ayden Brigman; her furry feline friend “Tom”; numerous cousins, extended family and friends. Linda was a sweet, kind and yet strong lady who loved her family dearly. She was a dedicated to her family and her job. Linda loved animals, the beach, going on cruises and talking to people. She was a people’s person who never met a stranger. Being a good cook Linda enjoyed grilling and spending time with family and friends. Linda will surely be missed but treasured memories of her will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. There will be a private family memorial service at a later date. The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, August 10, 2026, at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home, Wallace, NC.
Wyatt Declency Ragland Sr. Nov. 24, 1949 – Aug. 5, 2026 Dudley- “With humble acceptance of God’s will, we announce the passing of Mr. Wyatt Declency Ragland Sr., age 76, who answered the master’s call on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at UNC Health Wayne in Goldsboro, North Carolina, surrounded by his loving spouse. Though Mr. Ragland is no longer with us in body, his spirit remains forever in all who knew him. The arrangements are currently incomplete at this time. We extend our deepest condolences to the family and continue to keep the family in your thoughts and prayers during their time of bereavement. The family would like you to know they will be receiving friends at the home beginning Tuesday at 4:00 p.m.
Ben Jones, ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ actor and 2-term US House member, dies at 84 The N.C. native credited his iconic TV role with pulling him out of self-destruction By Jeffrey Collins The Associated Press BEN JONES, who played the good ol’ boy mechanic in “The Dukes of Hazzard” TV series and parlayed his fame into a political career and two terms in the U.S. House, has died. He was 84. Jones had a heart attack in his home Sunday in Washington, Virginia, as he was waiting to watch his beloved Atlanta Braves play baseball, his wife said on social media. Rappahannock County Sheriff Connie Compton confirmed his death. Jones’ fame came from his role as Cooter Davenport, the mechanic who got the Duke boys out of jams as they tried to do the right thing and fight the corrupt Boss Hogg in the fictional Hazzard County, Georgia. After playing Cooter for all seven seasons of the series from 1979 to 1985, Jones turned to politics and was elected to the U.S. House from a district near Atlanta in 1988. The Democrat served two terms before he was redistricted out of the seat. Jones was born in North Carolina and in college got involved in acting and civil rights, he wrote in his autobiography
JOE HOLLOWAY JR. / AP PHOTO
Jones, then running for Congress, center, prepares to watch the Hawks-Pacers NBA game at the Omni Arena in 1988 in Atlanta. “Redneck Boy in the Promised Land: The Confessions of ‘Crazy Cooter.’” Acting took over his life. Jones performed in numerous stage productions and had a few minor TV and movie roles in Atlanta during the 1970s before his life-defining break came on a TV show Jones defended as a modern-day morality tale and a fine example of Southern values. For seven seasons, Jones was one of a small band of friends and family helping Bo and Luke Duke in “The Dukes of Hazzard.” The brothers were on probation for running moonshine and were constantly trying to clear their names and stop the
crooked and powerful Boss Hogg from stealing or cheating. The Duke boys drove a modified 1969 Dodge Charger called the General Lee with a Confederate flag on its roof. Cooter owned “Cooter’s Garage” in the town square. Nearly every episode involved a car chase with jumps and stunts and a patrol car badly in need of repairs. Cooter was often on the CB radio in his pickup truck saying, “Breaker one, Breaker one. I might be crazy but I ain’t dumb. Crazy Cooter coming at you.” “The Dukes of Hazzard” was a hit for CBS, and its popularity never waned. It went into syndication and later became a prominent fixture on cable’s The Nashville Network. Jones also credited the series with pulling him out of a self-destructive, alcoholic lifestyle that led to the failure of several marriages. “It was like being in a Beatles movie,” Jones said. “Our lives changed.” After “The Dukes of Hazzard,” Jones went into politics. He kept his aw-shucks personality but took the issues seriously. In his four years in Washington, Jones was known as a Democrat who could buck his party. He was liberal on social issues and conservative on economics. But even in politics, he made a splash. After losing in 1992 in his redrawn district, Jones ran for Congress again in 1994.
“It was like being in a Beatles movie.” Ben Jones He lost to Newt Gingrich in the elections that elevated the Republican to the Speaker’s Office. Jones would file an ethics complaint that Gingrich used tax-deductible donations to fund his partisan college course, leading to a House reprimand and Gingrich’s decision to leave the body. Jones always embraced his role as Cooter. After moving to Virginia, he would open at least three “Cooter’s” country stores in Nashville and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and near his home. They sold plenty of T-shirts, key chains and insulated tumblers and included Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia, including one of the 300 or so General Lee cars used and abused in the TV series. The show and Cooter lived on because it was funny, had plenty of action and car chases and had a good, family-friendly heart, Jones told the Richmond Times-Dispatch at a 2001 car show where he played in a band, signed autographs and met fans. “The show reflects the values of the heartland of America. The good guys always win,” Jones said.
B6
Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
InflataFest fills Duplin Event Center with family fun From football and basketball inflatables to obstacle courses and virtual reality games, the Duplin Event Center was packed with activities Saturday. Families stayed cool and dry indoors while children played, built stuffed animals and explored the InflataFest’s many attractions. Food trucks were also set up outside the arena.
PHOTOS BY REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE
Veterans Museum expands hours to welcome more visitors The Duplin County Veterans Museum has expanded its hours of operation to provide more opportunities for visitors to explore the stories of local veterans and learn about their service, sacrifice and courage. The museum is now open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., with Saturday visits available by appointment. The museum is located at 119 East Hill Street in the historical district of Warsaw. The museum can be reached via telephone at 910293-2190.
COURTESY EARL HARDY, DUPLIN COUNTY VETERANS MUSEUM PRESIDENT
VOLUME 146 ISSUE 64 | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2026 | STANLYNEWSJOURNAL.COM
SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 704-982-2121
Stanly NewS Journal THE STANLY COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
WHAT’S HAPPENING Former U.S. Marine held in Russia for more than 4 years on disputed charges released A former U.S. Marine from Massachusetts who has been held in Russia for more than four years on disputed charges has been released. Robert Gilman’s advocates announced the news Tuesday, days after warning he was gravely ill. Gilman is a 32-year-old teacher who was detained since 2022. Gilman is on his way to a U.S. military hospital in Texas. That’s according to Global Reach, a group that’s been working to free him and other American detainees abroad. Gilman’s sister credited President Donald Trump and U.S. Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) with bringing about his release. The State Department says Gilman was wrongfully detained and was released on humanitarian grounds.
Contiguous U.S. breaks record for hottest month ever, NOAA says The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says the contiguous United States set a record for its hottest month ever in July. Last month averaged 76.89 degrees Fahrenheit across the Lower 48 states, eclipsing the Dust Bowl’s July 1936 by an eighth of a degree. Although it was unusually cool in Alaska, hotter than normal conditions blanketed the Lower 48, with the most excessive heat in the Mountain West, Southwest, Northern Plains and Southeast. The biggest driver of the heat was at night. Nighttime lows, which are crucial for people and agriculture to recover from hot days, smashed the old record for hottest minimums by 0.7 degrees, the NOAA said.
U.S. existing homes fall 1.7% in July as record prices, high rates stifle would-be buyers Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes slowed again in July as record prices and the highest mortgage rates in more than a year prove to be an insurmountable hurdle for many prospective homebuyers. The National Association of Realtors said Tuesday that existing home sales fell 1.7% last month from June to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.06 million units. July sales, however, were up 0.7% over last year. Home prices continued to rise, hitting unprecedented levels for July. The U.S. median sales price increased 2% from a year earlier, to $434,100.
$2.00
MY DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVE PHOTOGRAPHY FOR STANLY NEWS JOURNAL
Summer on the lake Boaters enjoy a serene Saturday on Lake Tillery, looking north at Morrow Mountain in the distance.
EMS, Atrium Health Stanly partner for prehospital blood transfusion program County paramedics can now administer lifesaving blood products in the field By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — Through a new partnership between Stanly County EMS and Atrium Health Stanly, county paramedics can now give blood transfusions before patients reach a hospital. The prehospital blood transfusion program is currently underway, according to a joint news release from the agencies released Aug. 3.
Because severe hemorrhaging is among the leading causes of preventable deaths in trauma cases, the program gives paramedics access to blood products for trauma patients experiencing serious blood loss, allowing treatment to begin at an emergency scene or while a patient is being transported. Until now, local patients in hemorrhagic shock — a life-threatening condition resulting from rapid and substantial blood loss — could not receive transfusions until reaching an emergency department. See PROGRAM, page A4
COURTESY STANLY COUNTY EMS
Stanly County EMS and Atrium Health Stanly representatives pose together outside the hospital in Albemarle.
Misenheimer announces inside new village manager hire
Albemarle native Denico Autry is reportedly retiring from the NFL. Turn to B1 for more.
Brice Dalke succeeds longtime administrator Anita Blair By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal MISENHEIMER — Misenheimer has hired Brice Dalke as its new manager, village officials announced last week. Dalke comes to the village with experience in municipal operations, economic development, planning and public engagement. Most recently, he served as program coordinator for the Asheboro Cultural and Recreation Department. In that position, he helped pre-
pare for the opening of the Cone Health Zoo City Sportsplex and coordinate operations at the 85-acre recreation complex. Dalke previously worked as a program assistant in the Workforce and Economic Development Department at the Piedmont Triad Regional Council. He also was a lead for North Carolina fellow assigned to the town of Liberty, where his work included downtown development, land-use planning, zoning projects and community research. “We are thrilled to have Brice join the Village of
“We are thrilled to have Brice join the Village of Misenheimer.” Michael Herron, Misenheimer mayor
See HIRE, page A5
Now Serving Cabarrus, Stanly & Montgomery Counties LOCATIONS
• Albemarle-West/ Coble Ave. • Albemarle-East/ Anderson Rd. • North Oakboro/ Red Cross Rd. • South Oakboro/ Rocky River Rd. • Mt. Pleasant • Biscoe • Locust
24 Hour Access Digital Video Surveillance Online Billing Great Customer Service
www.burlesonsquarestorage.com • 704-985-2274
MARIA LYSAKER / AP PHOTO
A2
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 12, 2026
WEDNESDAY
8.12.26 #135
2 appointed to state Lottery Commission Bryan Starnes was installed as chair, and Jason Poole was named a member of the board
North State Journal (USPS 518620) (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 Lauren Rose Design Editor Jesse Deal Reporter PJ Ward-Brown Photographer ADVERTISING Kateland Treece Advertising Representative Published Wednesday and Sunday as part of North State Journal 1548 NC 24-27 BYP W Albemarle NC 28001 TO SUBSCRIBE OR PLACE LEGAL NOTICE: 704-982-2121 STANLYNEWSJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Albemarle N.C. and at additional mailing offices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh NC 27607
r #¬Å Å
SCUSA Transportation General Public Service is available to all Stanly County residents. Providing service to people in need of transportation to Medical Appts, Work Personal Business & other locations. Wheelchair accessible vehicles. available.
Give us a call Mon-Fri 8am-5pm to schedule transportation.
(704) 986-3790
RALEIGH — Two appointments were made to the North Carolina Lottery Commission last week. Bryan Starnes was appointed as chair of the Lottery Commission by state Treasurer Brad Briner. Starnes will begin his five-year term Sept. 1 and will replace Ripley Rand, who has served as chair since December 2022. “The Lottery Commission oversees an enterprise that generates billions of dollars each year for the people of North Carolina, and that responsibility demands exceptional leadership,” said Briner in the press release. “Bryan Starnes has spent his career earning the trust of businesses, employees and stakeholders by demonstrating financial expertise, strong judgment and unwavering integrity. “He is exactly the kind of qualified leader North Carolinians deserve in this important role, and I am confident he will help ensure the Lottery Commission operates with accountability, transparency and sound stewardship,” said Briner. Starnes has worked for nearly four decades in accounting, finance and executive leadership as a certified public accountant. He began his career at Deloitte & Touche before becoming a controller for a North Carolina furniture manufacturer. In 1992, he worked as a partner at Martin Starnes & Associates, where he grew the firm into a respected accounting practice until 2011. In 2012, Starnes worked his way up from asset man-
happening Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Stanly County:
Aug. 13
By Jessica Taylor For Stanly News Journal
“Join the conversation”
STANLY
Discover Pastels Workshop 1-4 p.m. COURTESY TRP SUMNER
Jason Poole ager to chief accounting officer at Meridian Senior Living. Since 2013, he has worked as the chief financial officer at ALG Senior, a senior housing management and consulting company. Starnes has overseen billions of dollars in assets and transactions and built a reputation for accountability and strong financial oversight. As chief financial officer at ALG Senior, Starnes handled accounting, finance, risk management, human resources and policy advocacy for organizations managing more than 100 senior living communities across the nation. Starnes has been married to his wife, Sandy, for 40 years, and has three children and nine grandchildren. Starnes’ appointment is the first time the state treasurer has been authorized to appoint the chair of the Lottery Commission. The change was made by the North Carolina General Assembly in the yearly state budget. Alongside Starnes, Robert “Jason” Poole was appointed by State Auditor Dave Boliek to serve on the Lottery Commission. His appointment comes due to a recent state law allowing the state auditor to appoint one of the nine members of the commission. “Jason Poole is a respected financial professional with a strong record of leadership and service to North Caroli-
COURTESY N.C. STATE TREASURER
Bryan Starnes na,” said Boliek in the press release. “His expertise in accounting, governance, and fiscal oversight will be a solid asset to the North Carolina State Lottery Commission.” Poole is a certified public accountant and chartered global management accountant who has worked with businesses across North Carolina in accounting, financial reporting, management consulting, auditing and tax for more than two decades. Poole has served as a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, board member of the North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants (NCACPA), chairman of the East Carolina University Board of Trustees, chair of the NCACPA Advocacy Advisory Council and president of the NCACPA Foundation. “I am honored to be appointed by State Auditor Boliek to serve on the North Carolina State Lottery Commission,” said Poole. “I look forward to working with my fellow commissioners to uphold public trust and ensure there is accountability in gaming in North Carolina.” The Lottery Commission oversees the operation of the North Carolina Education Lottery to ensure integrity, transparency and accountability. The lottery supports education programs across the state.
Instructor Malia Bryngelson leads a soft-pastel painting workshop for beginner and experienced artists at Stanly Arts Guild & Gifts. Stanly Arts Guild & Gifts 152 W. Main St. Albemarle
Aug. 14 NC MedAssist Free Medicine Giveaway 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. NC MedAssist’s mobile free pharmacy distributes free over-the-counter medications, including pain relievers, cold and allergy remedies, and children’s medicine, to Stanly County residents 18 and older; no ID or proof of income is required. EE Waddell Community Center 621 Wall St. Albemarle
Summer Concert Series — Gump Fiction 7-10 p.m. The city of Locust’s Summer Concert Series presents 1990s tribute act Gump Fiction, with food and craft vendors and activities for children. Locust Town Center 186 Ray Kennedy Drive Locust
Aug. 15 Stanly County Slam Demolition Derby 6:30-9 p.m.
Taylor Farms recalls jalapeno products over salmonella concerns The recall follows a lettuce recall from Taylor Farms issued weeks ago By Michelle Chapman The Associated Press TAYLOR FRESH FOODS, parent company of Taylor Farms, is voluntarily recalling some products that include jalapenos because of worries about a possible salmonella contamination. The announcement comes a few weeks after Taylor Farms voluntarily recalled its iceberg lettuce products sourced from central Mexico because of a potential link to a multistate cyclospora outbreak that has sickened people across the U.S. Taylor Fresh Foods said
that it was pulling some products including jalapenos from store shelves after finding out that Coast Citrus Distributors was voluntarily recalling fresh jalapenos due to a potential salmonella contamination. Guacamole, pico de gallo and taco dip are some of the prepared foods included in the recall. The list of recalled products were distributed by Taylor Farms in multiple states with a “Best If Used By” date up to and including Aug. 16, 2026. The products were sold at stores including Kroger, Stop & Shop, Target, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s and Walmart. Taylor Fresh Foods said the Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were working with state and local partners to investigate illnesses in a multistate outbreak of
salmonella infections linked to fresh jalapenos supplied by Coast Citrus Distributors. The company said a grower in Sinaloa, Mexico, a supplier to Coast Citrus Distributors, was identified as the potential source in the outbreak. Taylor Fresh Foods said it is no longer sourcing products from the farmer and will be filling orders from alternative suppliers. The company is currently not aware of any reported illnesses linked to its products containing jalapenos. Consumers who have any recalled product are advised to discard it immediately and not eat it. Refunds are available at the location of purchase. Consumers with any questions can contact Taylor at 855-455-0098 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT.
Drivers compete in a demolition derby at the Stanly County Fairgrounds. Stanly County Fairgrounds 24302 South Business 52 Albemarle
SEARCH. SEE. LOVE WWW.KIMREYLASH.COM
(704) 984-8837 Phyllis Kimrey & Adrian Lash
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 12, 2026
A3
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH
The hard lesson for AIPAC
The message to other candidates is clear: AIPAC money comes with a price.
THERE ARE PLENTY of explanations for what happened in the Michigan Senate Democratic primary, where Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive, was declared the victor over Rep. Haley Stevens, a moderate, by a razor-thin margin of 1%. For starters, he was the outsider, a former public health official talking about the fundamental economic issues, while she was Sen. Chuck Schumer’s second choice (after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer) for the seat. He was, according to observers, the better communicator, the better orator, connecting on issues of affordability while she was expounding on her love for Michigan. He worked harder. He started campaigning well over a year ago and did some 500 public events against a candidate who stayed mostly out of the public eye and dodged tough questions. And the polls were wrong, as usual. The polls were projecting a double-digit El-Sayed victory. That didn’t happen. It turned into a cliffhanger, and El-Sayed only won by a razor-thin margin. So in that sense, as is always true of very close races, anything could have made the difference. But there are certain facts coming out of Michigan that cannot be denied. Stevens was supported by some $60 million in outside money, including more than $30 million from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. That’s AIPAC, for short, the pro-Israel lobby that used to wield enormous clout in Washington and in national politics. Her extraordinary support from AIPAC became an issue in the campaign, as did her opponent’s stance on Israel. El-Sayed is the sort of candidate AIPAC exists to defeat. He believes that Israel committed genocide in Gaza. He has pledged to cut U.S. military aid to Israel. And, according to The New
York Times, he has said he does not believe Israel should exist as an explicitly Jewish state. Throughout the campaign, El-Sayed attacked Stevens for her pro-Israel position and said he hoped to go to Washington to influence policy on Israel, especially among the party’s 2028 hopefuls. AIPAC spent more money, according to the Times, trying to beat El-Sayed than any outside group has in a primary this year. They put more than $30 million on the scale and became a much-debated issue in the campaign for doing so. The message to other candidates is clear: AIPAC money comes with a price. Did it hurt Stevens more than it helped her? While apologists for AIPAC may spin that even with prevailing winds against them, they almost pulled it off, the fact of the matter is that they didn’t pull it off. They lost. A few years ago, there would have been no place in the Democratic Party for a candidate like El-Sayed. His views on Palestine would have been unacceptable. He would not have been given a speaking role at a convention. As I write this, the party is unifying behind him to give him a speaking and voting role in the U.S. Senate. As the polls have measured, accurately, public opinion on Israel has shifted dramatically, and negatively. Some of us continue, albeit with difficulty, to draw a line between our support for Israel and our opposition to its current government, but most people don’t. They don’t view Israel through the Holocaust-tinged glasses of my generation. We know this. AIPAC has to know this. The lesson of Michigan cannot be that they just needed a little more money. The message is not working. Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
COLUMN | LARRY ELDER
AI cannot give writers something to say
Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed.
AFTER NEARLY 35 YEARS as a talk show host, I’ve had many young broadcasters ask me, “What’s the secret?” My answer always surprises them because it’s so short. “Have something to say.” Most expect advice about voice, pacing, interview techniques, social media or how to handle callers. Those things matter. But they’re secondary. If you don’t have an interesting idea, no amount of polish will keep an audience listening. The audience may admire your delivery for a while, but eventually it wants substance. It wants a reason to come back tomorrow. The same principle applies to writing. Someone once asked me, “What makes a good writer?” My answer was the same: “Having something to say.” Good grammar helps. A large vocabulary helps. A clever turn of phrase helps. But readers don’t return because of sentence structure. They return because the writer consistently offers an insight, an argument or an observation they had not considered before. The style attracts attention. The ideas keep it. That’s one reason the rise of artificial intelligence doesn’t worry me nearly as much as it worries some people. AI can make a sentence cleaner. It can tighten a paragraph. It can suggest a better headline, organize research and identify weaknesses in an argument. It can save a substantial amount of time in tracking down sources. Those are remarkable tools. But recently, a judge blasted an attorney whose legal brief cited cases that were either nonexistent or did not support the proposition for which they were cited. Blind and lazy reliance on AI was the likely culprit. But AI cannot live your life for you. It cannot accumulate your experiences, your failures, your successes, your conversations or your observations. Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed. AI can help you communicate an idea more effectively, but it cannot give you a lifetime from which original ideas are born. The same lesson appears in coaching. NFL coach Bum Phillips once paid Hall of Fame coach Don Shula perhaps the greatest compliment one coach has ever paid another: “He can take his’n and beat your’n. And your’n and beat his’n.” In other words, if Shula had the better team, he would beat you. But if you had the
better team, he might beat you anyway. Phillips was saying that great coaches first maximize their advantages. Then, every so often, they overcome their disadvantages. When I practiced law, I came to a similar conclusion about trial lawyers. A good trial lawyer wins all the cases he should — and a few he shouldn’t. He doesn’t lose the cases he should win through poor preparation or weak advocacy. Then, once in a while, through judgment, preparation and persuasion, he wins a case the facts and the law suggest he would lose. The exceptional performer first masters the fundamentals. Only then can he elevate his craft. In broadcasting, they ask about microphones instead of ideas. In writing, they ask about style instead of substance. In coaching, they ask about strategy instead of talent. In law, they ask about courtroom theatrics instead of judgment. The essentials come first. Everything else is an enhancement. Technology can improve prose, summarize documents and organize research in seconds. Those advances are valuable, even remarkable, but none answers the question that matters most: What do you actually think? If you have nothing worth saying, technology won’t rescue you. If you do have something worth saying, technology becomes a force multiplier, enabling you to communicate more clearly and more efficiently. Despite all the technological changes during my career — from computers and the internet to radio and podcasts and now to artificial intelligence — the secret remains the same. It applies to writing a column, hosting a radio show, giving a speech or leading a meeting. People still hunger for fresh ideas, honest observations and genuine insight. They still appreciate someone who can make sense of confusing events or articulate what others struggle to say. After all these years behind a microphone, through changing technologies and changing media, my answer remains the same. Every profession has an indispensable first principle. Miss it, and no amount of technique will save you. Have something to say. Larry Elder is an author and nationally syndicated radio talk show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com.)
A4
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 12, 2026
te Concrek 38 Years of Experience Call Anytime! WdoWre Trust” “ In Go
Stamped & Decorative Concrete • Driveways Basements • Carports • Patios • Sidewalks • Concrete Repair 6ODEV %ORFN DQG %ULFN :RUN 5RRÀQJ 5RRP $GGLWLRQV 'HFNV
Jerry Dunlap (Dunlap Brothers)
980-622-7833 • jerry@dunlapconcrete.com
JACQUELYN MARTIN / AP PHOTO
President Donald Trump speaks as Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. listens during a meeting to sign an executive order about vaccines last Monday, in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C.
Trump officials propose new scrutiny of food ingredients The rule would close a decades-old loophole allowing companies to self-approve food additives By Matthew Perrone The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. health officials on Monday proposed a rule change that would require food manufacturers to notify regulators before introducing new ingredients or additives into processed or packaged foods. The proposal would change a decades-old policy that advocates have called a regulatory loophole, blaming it for allowing thousands of unvetted ingredients into the U.S. food supply. Under the proposed rule from the Food and Drug Administration, companies would have to document and submit their safety findings for new ingredients, giving regulators the opportunity to investigate if they see a potential safety risk. Currently, companies can decide for themselves if an ingredient or additive is “generally recognized as safe,” and there is no requirement for companies to notify or submit evidence to the FDA, although some do. “Shifting to a mandatory notification system closes a decades-old information gap, giving the FDA the comprehensive visibility needed to enhance postmarket safety,” acting FDA Commissioner Kyle Diamantas told reporters Monday. The FDA will take comments on the proposal for 120 days.
We Offer Family Style Living, All Private Rooms, Weekly Laundry & Housekeeping, 3 Nutritious Meals Served Daily, and Recreational Activities For All. CALL (704) 982-4217 TO SCHEDULE A TOUR EXPLORE OUR COMMUNITY ONLINE AT THRIVEMORENC.ORG/TAYLOR-HOUSE
319 PALMER STREET ALBEMARLE, NC 28001
PROGRAM from page A1 Starting a transfusion at the scene allows medics to replace blood volume earlier during a time-sensitive emergency. “This program represents a massive step forward for our agency and the citizens we serve,” Stanly County EMS Chief Dale Chandler said. “With the vital oversight and supply support from Atrium Health Stanly’s blood bank, our paramedics are now equipped with one of the most powerful tools available to save lives during ma-
jor hemorrhagic emergencies.” The program’s implementation followed planning and specialized training overseen by the Stanly County EMS medical director. Paramedics learned clinical protocols for safely administering transfusions outside a hospital. Atrium Health Stanly’s blood bank supplies the blood products and provides quality oversight for their use in the field. “We’re proud to partner with Stanly County EMS on this program, which will make a meaningful difference for patients and
Government scrutiny of ultraprocessed food continues, but with few details In a separate move, the FDA said it completed work on the federal government’s first definition of ultraprocessed food but did not release any details or the proposed language. The agency said it has submitted the definition to the White House for further review. Health advocates consider an official definition of ultraprocessed food a key step toward bringing greater scrutiny to packaged foods that are blamed for multiple chronic health problems afflicting Americans. A govern-
families across the community,” said Marietta Abernathy, president of Atrium Health Stanly. “Through our blood bank, we’re ensuring blood is available when and where it’s needed most, equipping paramedics to provide lifesaving care to patients when every minute counts.” Stanly County EMS independently purchased specialized medical-grade coolers and outfitted its response units to maintain the temperatures required for storing and transporting blood products. Officials said providing trans-
“Shifting to a mandatory notification system closes a decadesold information gap, giving the FDA the comprehensive visibility needed to enhance postmarket safety.” Kyle Diamantas, acting FDA commissioner ment-backed definition could pave the way for more federal research and, eventually, possible labeling or other restrictions on processed foods. Neither of Monday’s announcements are likely to immediately impact American diets, which are packed with fats, sodium and sugar and are blamed for a host of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease. But both initiatives are considered top priorities for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who entered government vowing to crack down on artificial colors, additives and other ingredients. Ultraprocessed foods are made using industrial processing and additives, colors, preservatives or other ingredients not found in home kitchens. The foods include sugary cereals, sodas, chips, frozen pizzas and other grocery items. Scientists have been working to define and classify processed foods for well over a decade. But sweeping definitions come with downsides. They can be often applied to foods like whole grain bread, yogurt and granola that are all highly processed but still considered nutritious. Some recent efforts to define ultraprocessed foods include carve-outs for foods that meet nutrition standards despite having processed ingredients. FDA proposal would bring new insights on additives used by food companies In the U.S., an estimated 10,000 additives are allowed in food, including thickeners, preservatives and packaging ingredients. Consumer advocates have long argued that many of those ingredients have never been properly vetted because
fusions sooner can help patients with severe blood loss arrive at the emergency department in more stable condition and better prepared for further treatment; the initiative is intended to expand advanced emergency care for both county residents and visitors. As the county’s primary provider of 911 emergency medical care, Stanly County EMS handles more than 16,000 calls each year as its bases and response units provide coverage for medical emergencies, trauma cases and specialty incidents.
of the FDA’s policy allowing manufacturers to certify for themselves that new additives are “generally recognized as safe,” or GRAS. The FDA’s Diamantas stressed Monday that the new policy would not require all new ingredients to undergo FDA review. He said that type of mandatory review would need to be enacted by Congress in order to rewrite FDA’s authority over the food supply. “What we’re doing is requiring companies that utilize the pathway to notify us of their conclusions so that we have greater visibility into those conclusions and consumers have awareness,” Diamantas said. Under the proposal, the FDA would be expected to review new ingredient submission within 180 days. If FDA regulators have safety concerns, they could request additional information from manufacturers or request that they delay introducing the ingredient. Rule change in 1990s created so-called loophole Any substance intentionally added to food is supposed to undergo formal review — unless the additive is considered safe. Since the late 1950s, the government recognized that many common ingredients in foods, such as spices and vinegar, were widely consumed and understood to be safe for consumption. The FDA policed the GRAS exemption for years, but it took time and resources. Starting in 1997, the FDA began allowing companies to independently determine that a new additive is safe based on publicly available scientific evidence and the consensus of qualified experts. However, the list of products deemed GRAS by companies grew to include many synthetic and natural additives, all incorporated into the food supply without independent review. The process has created a “secret GRAS loophole,” according to the consumer advocacy group Center for Science in the Public Interest, that “undermines the integrity of our food safety system.” Food industry officials contend their internal reviews of additives are as rigorous as the FDA’s own processes.
“This program represents a massive step forward for our agency and the citizens we serve.” Dale Chandler, Stanly County EMS chief Paramedics and advanced emergency medical technicians will maintain continuous coverage under the agency’s 24/72 shift structure.
A5
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Watchdog for $46B tribal gambling industry can’t enforce law without chairperson The vacancy exposes the tribal gambling industry to emerging online prediction markets By Savannah Peters The Associated Press ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On opening day at the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma’s new Harrah’s-branded casino, the tribe’s chairman watched customers pack the gambling floor while a queue of cars spilled out of the parking lot. “We couldn’t let them in because we were so full,” Chairman Jacob Keyes said. “That’s a direct impact from the Harrah’s name.” But a vacancy in Washington is preventing the tribe’s partnership with the gambling giant from moving beyond branding. Plans for Harrah’s parent company to take over day-to-day management of the casino in Chandler, Oklahoma, stalled after it opened in April, because no one is at the helm of the federal commission that oversees tribal gambling. The last chairperson of the National Indian Gaming Commission stepped down from the role in January. President Donald Trump has not nominated anyone to fill the vacancy. Absent a chair, the commission is unable to perform some key responsibilities, like enforcing legal and safety violations, approving new tribal gambling laws and certifying management agreements between tribes and casino operators. Industry leaders say the agency’s inertia risks delaying business deals, weakening oversight and leaving tribes without a key advocate in Washington as they grapple with an emerging threat posed by online prediction markets. “At this crucial time, the (National Indian Gaming Commission) is operating with one arm tied behind its back,” said Jonodev Chaudhuri, a former NIGC chair from 2013 to 2019 and a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. “That’s a very precarious position for tribes and Indian gaming.” There’s a lot at stake for tribes that rely heavily on casino revenue to fund healthcare, housing, education and other vital services. Tribal gambling brought in a record $46 billion in 2025, nearly triple the annual casino revenue of gambling powerhouse Nevada. Commission’s core powers vested in chair With its Harrah’s contract stuck in limbo, the Iowa Tribe’s small government staff finds itself managing the 175,000-square-foot casino, a mammoth task it had intended to outsource. “It’s discouraging. We’re paying a fee and not getting the full value,” Keyes said. The decision to outsource management was strategic: Harrah’s branding would bring in more business than existing staff could accommodate. Instead, staff has to balance management with other priorities like preparing tribal bud-
HIRE from page A1 Misenheimer as Manager and are confident that his experience and commitment to public service will help strengthen our community and support its continued growth,” Mayor Michael Herron said in the village’s announcement. Mayor Pro Tem Jamie Hammill also praised Dalke’s qualifications. “Brice’s combination of local government experience, strategic thinking, community engagement skills and dedication to public service make him exceptionally well-suited to lead our community into the future,” Hammill said. Dalke is pursuing a master’s degree in public administration through the University of North Carolina School of Government,
BRITTANY BENDABOUT / AP PHOTO
A person plays a slot machine at Harrah’s Casino, owned by the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma, in Chandler, Oklahoma, on Aug. 5.
“Every dollar generated by Indian gaming goes to fund healthcare for our people, education for our children, housing for our elders.” David Bean, Indian Gaming Association chairman
BRITTANY BENDABOUT / AP PHOTO
William Eary, a table games dealer at Harrah’s Casino, shuffles a deck of cards at the casino in Chandler, Oklahoma, on Aug. 5. gets and overseeing social programs, Keyes said. The three-member gaming commission was formed in 1988 to regulate casino-style gambling and promote economic development on tribal lands. Some 250 tribal governments across 29 states now operate 545 gambling facilities, the commission said. Under federal law, its enforcement powers are vested solely in the chairperson. Industry leaders say its inability to cite casinos for violating federal law or force the emergency closure of unsafe facilities is particularly troubling. In a typical year, the commission issues several citations to tribes for operating casinos on unauthorized lands, failing to submit required financial statements, misusing revenues and other violations. The commission’s last enforcement action was issued Jan. 12 — the same day acting chairperson Sharon
Avery’s term expired. She remains on the commission. The commission declined an interview request and said in an emailed statement that tribal officials and its field staff provide “excellent regulation” amid the leadership gap. But Steven Light, an expert in tribal gambling law at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, said the lack of enforcement power could discourage investment in tribal gambling and slow business growth. “Markets function best when there’s stability and certainty around processes and rules,” Light said.
with a concentration in local government management. He earned dual bachelor’s degrees in political science and international studies from Western Carolina University after receiving an associate degree in criminal justice technologies from Randolph Community College. The village’s search followed the retirement of longtime administrator and clerk Anita Blair, which took effect Aug. 1 after she spent more than 10 years with Misenheimer. The village announced in May that it had extended the search, moving the application deadline from May 15 to June 3 while working with the Centralina Regional Council. Blair joined Misenheimer as administrator and clerk in March 2016. She became town
manager in January 2025 after the village amended its charter and adopted the council-manager form of government. During her tenure, Blair guided the village through annual budget cycles, infrastructure and growth discussions, community improvement projects and its designation on the National Register of Historic Places. As manager, Dalke will serve as the village’s chief administrator, implement policies approved by the Village Council and oversee municipal finances and daily operations. The position also includes enforcing local laws and regulations, supporting community engagement and coordinating with elected officials, village employees, residents and outside organizations.
Prediction markets emerge as new threat to tribal gaming The commission vacancy comes as the popularity of online prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket explodes. Tribal leaders fear those
platforms, which allow users to wager on the outcome of virtually any event, could violate their sovereignty and take a bite out of gambling revenue. “Every dollar generated by Indian gaming goes to fund healthcare for our people, education for our children, housing for our elders,” said David Bean, chairman of the Indian Gaming Association and a citizen of the Puyallup Tribe. At least eight tribes have sued prediction market platforms, alleging they accept bets from tribal lands and in states where tribes have exclusive gambling rights in violation of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which the gaming commission is tasked with enforcing. Prediction markets argue their users are engaging in futures trading, not gambling, and dispute claims that they are circumventing regulation. The commission chairperson typically serves as an advocate for the tribal gambling industry in Washington, according to former commissioners and staffers. Yet it’s been conspicuously silent while the federal government weighs how to regulate prediction markets, said Joe Valandra, the commission’s chief of staff from 2005 to 2007 and a citizen of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. James Siva, who leads
the California Nations Indian Gaming Association and is vice chairman of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, said the Trump administration’s support of and business ties to the prediction markets industry could explain why it hasn’t filled the vacancy. “These things are happening in conjunction with each other,” Siva said in April at a news conference with the Indian Gaming Association. “It is not a coincidence by any means.” Leadership gap spans two administrations The commission’s last Senate-confirmed chairperson termed out under former President Joe Biden without a successor in place. A White House spokesperson called the commission a “valued board” but did not say when a new nomination will be made. In April, Trump appointed Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland, a citizen of the Navajo Nation, to the commission. That’s raised questions about potential executive branch influence over an agency designed to be independent. “This crosses that threshold in an uncomfortable way,” said Shannon O’Loughlin, the commission’s chief of staff from 2015 to 2017 and a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Keyes said a crucial opportunity to develop his tribe’s economy hangs in the balance. He doesn’t see the commission vacancy as partisan play. “I don’t want to sound like sour grapes, but when have Native American issues ever been prioritized by the federal government?” he said.
COURTESY VILLAGE OF MISENHEIMER
Retired Misenheimer Village Manager Anita Blair, left, administers the oath of office to her successor, Brice Dalke.
A6
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 12, 2026
OBITUARIES IN MEMORY
REV. DENNIS P. BUCHER AUG. 8, 1933 – AUG. 4, 2026 Rev. Dennis P. Bucher, of Albemarle, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, at Trinity Place in Albemarle, just days before his 93rd birthday. A memorial service to celebrate his life will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026, in the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Curtis Parker, Chaplain of Trinity Place, officiating. Following the service, the family will receive friends during a Celebration of Life Reception from 1:00 until 2:00 p.m. at Trinity Place in Albemarle. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Daytona Memorial Park in Daytona Beach, Florida. Born on August 8, 1933, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Dennis was the son of the late Henry Irvin Bucher, Jr. and Estelle Templet Bucher. Rev. Bucher faithfully devoted his life to serving the Lord through a ministry of music. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in music education from Loyola University, and pursued his studies earning a Master of Divinity degree from New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary. Throughout his ministry, he served churches in numerous states as a minister of music, directing choirs and leading congregations in worship through his love of sacred music. From 1975 until 1985, he faithfully served as Minister of Music at First Baptist Church of Charlotte, where his gifted leadership and passion for worship touched the lives of countless people. He was a proud charter member of The Century Men a choir of 100 men composed of ministers of music from around the United States. He was also a veteran of the United States Army, serving as a First Lieutenant. Dennis will be remembered as a faithful servant of Christ, a gifted musician, and a devoted family man. He enjoyed traveling with his family and found great joy in using his musical talents to glorify God and encourage others. His life was marked by humility, faithfulness, and a genuine love for people. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jackie Louise Jones Bucher, who passed away on June 2, 1998, and by his brother, Irvin Bucher who passed away April 28, 1987. He is survived by his daughters, Dana Bucher Jenkins (Late Craig Jenkins) of Oakboro and Donna Bucher Stallings (Neal) of Hernando, Florida; his grandchildren, Jessica Jenkins of Durham and Daniel Jenkins of Durham; and many extended family members and dear friends who will cherish his memory. The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to the staff of Trinity Place for the compassionate care, kindness, and love shown to Rev. Bucher during his time there.
HAZEL COLLEEN NABORS BURLESON DEC, 28, 1935 – AUG. 8, 2026 Hazel Colleen Nabors Burleson, 90, of Albemarle, peacefully passed away on Saturday, August 8, 2026, at Woodhaven Court Assisted Living. Colleen was born on December 28, 1935, in Mecklenburg County to the late Horace and Minnie Nabors. A Celebration of Life will be held at 12:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at West Albemarle Baptist Church, with Pastor Adam Hatley and Pastor Brent Pope officiating. The family will receive friends from 10:45 until 11:45 a.m. prior to the service at the church. Colleen is survived by her daughters, Robbin Campbell (Walter), Bonnie Greene, and Tammy James (Sid); grandchildren, Tracy Oliver (Daryl), Melissa Morgan (Gary), Shannon Leslie, Steven Huneycutt, Chad James (Tiffany), Jeff James (Heather), and Candice Pollowitz (Ryan); Seventeen great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ted D. Burleson, who passed away in 2001; daughter, Candy Johnson; and brother, Semon Nabors. Colleen lived a full life centered around the people and things she loved most. Family was always at the heart of her life, and she was a devoted mother who consistently put her daughters first. She enjoyed traveling and was an avid NASCAR fan. Colleen also had a wonderful sense of humor and loved being a jokester, bringing laughter and smiles to those around her. Her church family at West Albemarle Baptist Church held a special place in her heart. She especially loved children and found great joy in serving in the church nursery, where her caring nature could be shared with some of the youngest members of her church family. The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff of VIA Health Partners and the staff of Woodhaven Court for the compassionate care, kindness, and support they provided to Colleen and her family over the last several years. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Special Needs Ministry at West Albemarle Baptist Church, 336 Church Street, Albemarle, NC 28001. Colleen will be remembered for her devotion to family, her strong faith, her love for children, and the laughter she so freely shared. Her life touched many generations, and the love, joy, and memories she leaves behind will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
PATRICIA GIBSON COOKE DEC. 22, 1938 – AUG. 10, 2026 Patricia Gibson Cooke, age 87 of Richfield, NC, formerly of Troy, NC, entered into eternal peace on Monday, August 10, 2026, surrounded by her loved ones. Patricia is survived by her daughter: Kathy Cooke Collingwood (Dale) of Richfield, NC; her son: Michael Raeford Cooke (Eva) of Greensboro, NC; grandchildren: Kimberly Collingwood Allen (Tommy), Jordan Collingwood (Tabitha), Michael Raeford Cooke II, and Katie Cooke Georges (Pete); great grandchildren: Harlow, Clark, Evie, Everett, and one on the way; siblings: Evon McIntyre and Joyce Jarrell. She was preceded in death by her husband Raeford Wesley Cooke, and siblings Hiram Gibson, Jr., Rev. Lonnie Gibson, Frances Kelly, Shirley Elam, and Ruby Hunsucker. A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 819 Mt. Carmel Church Rd., Troy, NC 27371, with son-in-law Rev. Dale Collingwood, son Michael Raeford Cooke, grandson Jordan Collingwood, and nephew Tommy Elam officiating. Visitation will be prior to the service from 12:00 noon to 1:45 PM. at the church. Burial will be in Southside Cemetery, Main Street, Troy, NC. Memorials may be made to Richfield Baptist Church, 402 S. Main Street, Richfield, NC 28137. On-line condolences may be made at www.pughfuneralhome. com. Pugh Troy Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Patricia Cooke.
Ben Jones, ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ actor and 2-term US House member, dies at 84 The N.C. native credited his iconic TV role with pulling him out of self-destruction By Jeffrey Collins The Associated Press BEN JONES, who played the good ol’ boy mechanic in “The Dukes of Hazzard” TV series and parlayed his fame into a political career and two terms in the U.S. House, has died. He was 84. Jones had a heart attack in his home Sunday in Washington, Virginia, as he was waiting to watch his beloved Atlanta Braves play baseball, his wife said on social media. Rappahannock County Sheriff Connie Compton confirmed his death. Jones’ fame came from his role as Cooter Davenport, the mechanic who got the Duke boys out of jams as they tried to do the right thing and fight the corrupt Boss Hogg in the fictional Hazzard County, Georgia. After playing Cooter for all seven seasons of the series from 1979 to 1985, Jones turned to politics and was elected to the U.S. House from a district near Atlanta in 1988. The Democrat served two terms before he was redistricted out of the seat. Jones was born in North Carolina and in college got involved in acting and civil rights, he wrote in his autobiography “Redneck Boy in the Promised Land: The Confessions of ‘Crazy Cooter.’” Acting took over his life. Jones performed in numerous stage productions and had a few minor TV and movie roles in Atlanta during the 1970s before his life-defining break came on a TV show Jones defended as a modern-day morality tale and a fine example of Southern values. For seven seasons, Jones was one of a small band of friends and family helping Bo and Luke Duke in “The Dukes of Hazzard.” The brothers were on probation for running moonshine and were constantly trying to clear their names and stop the crooked and powerful Boss Hogg from stealing or cheating. The Duke boys drove a modified 1969 Dodge Charger called the General Lee with a Confederate flag on its roof. Cooter owned “Cooter’s Garage” in the town square. Nearly every episode involved a car chase with jumps and stunts and a patrol car badly in need of repairs. Cooter was often on the CB radio in his pickup truck saying, “Breaker one, Breaker one. I might be crazy but I ain’t dumb. Crazy Cooter coming at you.” “The Dukes of Hazzard” was a hit for CBS, and its popularity never waned. It went into syndication and later became of prominent fixture on cable’s The Nashville Network. Jones also credited the series with pulling him out of a self-destructive, alcoholic lifestyle that led to the failure of several marriages. “It was like being in a Beatles
STEVE HELBER / AP PHOTO
Cooter, actor Ben Jones, sits atop one of the 229 hotrods, named the General Lee, used in the show “Dukes of Hazzard” as ecstatic fan, Aliceson Johnson, of Charlottesville, Virginia, sits in the driver’s seat in front of his store in Sperryville, Virginia, in 1999.
JOE HOLLOWAY JR. / AP PHOTO
Jones, then running for Congress, center, prepares to watch the Hawks-Pacers NBA game at the Omni Arena in 1988 in Atlanta.
“It was like being in a Beatles movie.” Ben Jones movie,” Jones said. “Our lives changed.” After “The Dukes of Hazzard,” Jones went into politics. He kept his aw-shucks personality but took the issues seriously. In his four years in Washington, Jones was known as a Democrat who could buck his party. He was liberal on social issues and conservative on economics. But even in politics, he made a splash. After losing in 1992 in his redrawn district, Jones ran for Congress again in 1994. He lost to Newt Gingrich in the elections that elevated the Republican to the Speaker’s Office. Jones would file an ethics complaint that Gingrich used tax-deductible donations to
fund his partisan college course, leading to a House reprimand and Gingrich’s decision to leave the body. Jones always embraced his role as Cooter. After moving to Virginia, he would open at least three “Cooter’s” country stores in Nashville and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and near his home. They sold plenty of T-shirts, key chains and insulated tumblers and included Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia, including one of the 300 or so General Lee cars used and abused in the TV series. The show and Cooter lived on because it was funny, had plenty of action and car chases and had a good, family-friendly heart, Jones told the Richmond Times-Dispatch at a 2001 car show where he played in a band, signed autographs and met fans. “The show reflects the values of the heartland of America. The good guys always win,” Jones said.
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Stanly News Journal at obits@stanlynewsjournal.com
STANLY SPORTS
COURTESY WEST STANLY ATHLETICS
The West Stanly football team celebrates during a game against North Stanly.
West Stanly to host Stanly County Jamboree The event will feature eight varsity football teams By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal RED CROSS — The third annual Stanly County Jamboree will kick off at 6:30 p.m. Friday at West Stanly High School, bringing the county’s four varsity football teams together for an evening of preseason action. Each county team will face an out-of-county opponent in an exhibition matchup at Larry Wagner Field. South Stanly’s Rowdy Rebel Bulls are set to open the schedule against Hunter Huss
at 6:30 p.m. The North Stanly Comets will face Bonnie Cone at 7:10 p.m., followed by the Albemarle Bulldogs against Union Academy at 7:50 p.m. As the host team, the West Stanly Colts will close the event against Northwood Academy at 8:30 p.m. “We’re excited to host this year’s Stanly County Jamboree,” West Stanly’s football team said in a statement. “All four Stanly County teams will be in action, and we hope the entire community comes out to support them for a great night of football.” The jamboree debuted in 2024 at North Stanly’s R.N. Jeffery Stadium. The scrimmage-style event gives the programs preseason competition,
“All four Stanly County teams will be in action, and we hope the entire community comes out to support them for a great night of football.” West Stanly football showcases area players and builds anticipation for the approaching season. Organizers have expanded and extended this year’s format, scheduling the four matchups consecutively in 40-minute windows.
During the first two jamborees, multiple scrimmages ran simultaneously, with one at the scoreboard end of the field and another at the field house end. Teams received 10 offensive plays beginning at the 40-yard line while moving toward the end zone. The new schedule will allow spectators to watch every county team take the field. County coaches collaborate to organize the jamboree, which also serves as a fundraiser for the participating schools. Ticket revenue is shared among the programs; general admission tickets cost $10 and are available online through GoFan. The regular season is scheduled to begin Aug. 21 as South
Albemarle native Autry expected to retire after 12 seasons with 4 NFL teams The former Bulldog recorded 65.5 sacks during his pro career By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — Denico Autry, one of Stanly County’s most accomplished professional athletes, is expected to retire after a dozen seasons playing in the NFL. Aaron Wilson of KPRC 2 in Houston reported July 21 that the 36-year-old defensive end is likely ending his career; Pro Football Talk later relayed the report. Autry has not formally announced his retirement. The Albemarle native has remained unsigned since becoming a free agent in March, when his two-year contract with the Houston Texans expired. NFL teams are now well into training camp as they prepare for the 2026 season. If Autry’s career is complete, he finishes with 331 tackles, 65.5 sacks, 117 quarterback hits, eight forced fumbles and 35 pass breakups across 164 regular-season games. He started 91 of those contests. He also made a substantial impact on special teams, block-
ASHLEY LANDIS / AP PHOTO
Texans defensive end Denico Autry enters the field before a game against the Colts on Jan. 4 in Houston. ing 13 kicks to tie former Carolina Panthers star Julius Peppers for the second-highest total by an NFL player since 1991. Autry took an unlikely route from Albemarle High School
to a lengthy NFL career. After playing for the Bulldogs, he attended East Mississippi Community College before he earned a scholarship to Mississippi State. During two seasons in
Starkville, Mississippi, Autry appeared in 26 games and made 23 starts. He recorded 73 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, six sacks and three forced fumbles but was not invited to the NFL scouting combine
Stanly hosts West Stanly, North Stanly visits Community School of Davidson and Albemarle welcomes The College Prep and Leadership Academy. The matchup between the Bulls and Colts will serve as the season’s first intracounty meeting between local teams. North Stanly led the county last season with a 10-2 overall record and a 6-1 mark in Yadkin Valley Conference play. Over in Norwood, South Stanly finished 8-3 overall and 5-1 in the conference. Albemarle went 5-7 overall and placed fifth in the YVC at 2-5, while West Stanly finished 2-10, including a winless 0-5 mark and last-place finish in the Rocky River Conference.
13
Blocked kicks by Denico Autry in his NFL career
and went unselected in the 2014 draft. The Oakland Raiders then signed him as an undrafted free agent. Autry developed into a regular contributor during four seasons with the franchise, collecting 10.5 sacks. His best season in Oakland came in 2017, when he played all 16 games and totaled 36 tackles, five sacks and seven pass breakups. That performance helped Autry secure a three-year, $17.8 million contract with the Indianapolis Colts in 2018. He produced 20 sacks in 40 games, including 38 starts, during his three seasons in Indianapolis. Autry then signed a three-year, $21.5 million deal with the Tennessee Titans. He recorded 28.5 sacks from 2021 through 2023, capped by a career-high 11.5 sacks in his final season with Tennessee. He spent the last two seasons with Houston, where a knee injury slowed him. Autry played 10 games and recorded three sacks in 2024, then opened 2025 on the physically unable to perform list because of the injury. He returned in Week 7, appearing in 12 games and producing 3.5 sacks.
B2
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 12, 2026
$1)1
SIDELINE REPORT NASCAR
NASCAR’s exhibition Clash returning to Daytona Daytona Beach, Fla. NASCAR’s exhibition Clash is returning to Daytona International Speedway for the first time in six years. The race will be Feb. 13, 2027. It doesn’t count for points and is the lead-up to the season-opening Daytona 500 on Feb. 21. Daytona hosted the Clash from 1979 to 2021. It was moved to Los Angeles Memorial Stadium for three years and then relocated to tiny Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem the last two years in a return to NASCAR’s grassroots racing.
BUY ONE, GET ONE 1/2 OFF!* Waterproof (up to 1 meter)
1/')# #+ 4GEJCTIGCDNG
NFL
Bears add experience to secondary by signing safety Woods Chicago The Chicago Bears added significant experience to their secondary by signing safety Xavier Woods. Woods has started in 121 games in nine NFL seasons. The Bears placed defensive back Dallis Flowers on injured reserve following an injury to his right leg. The 31-year-old Woods has 15 career interceptions, including two in 11 games for Tennessee last season. He had 39 tackles for the Titans. Woods played his first four seasons with Dallas, where he started 48 of 60 games. He also has played for Minnesota and Carolina.
9KVJ VJG YQTNFoU ƂTUV #+ CPF ) )GP #+ 0'741 2TQEGUUQT
Designed to come closer to restoring the normal sense of hearing than any technology before. Up to 51 hours of battery life on a single charge ALL 0'9
SOCCER
Australia grants citizenship to pair of Iranian women’s soccer players Melbourne, Australia Two Iranian women soccer players who sought asylum in Australia have been granted citizenship. Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh said they were sworn in by Immigration Minister Tony Burke in Brisbane. Friends and supporters from the local Iranian community attended the ceremony. The Refugee Council of Australia noted that citizenship usually requires four years on a valid visa. The women joined Brisbane Roar after Iran withdrew from the Women’s Asia Cup hosted by Australia.
9*+.' 5722.+'5 .#56
%#.. (14 ;174 #221+06/'06 61&#;
111 Penny Street, Albemarle, NC Monday-Friday 9am-12pm & 1pm-5pm 704-982-8004 1-800-982-7478 www.albemarlehearing.com
12 Month No Interest and Extended Payment Plan
Linda S. McDaniel Hearing Instrument Specialist, Owner
*some exclusions apply
NBA
Memphis forward Clarke died from effects of heroin, cocaine Los Angeles Authorities have determined Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died in May from the effects of heroin and cocaine. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner said the 29-year-old basketball player’s death was accidental. Clarke was found dead inside a home near Los Angeles on May 11. Drug paraphernalia was reportedly found at the residence. Clarke was under contract to be with the Grizzlies through the 2026-27 season.
Share with your community! ••• Send your birth, death, marriage, graduation and other announcements to
BANK LOCAL. BUILD LOCAL. THRIVE TOGETHER.
community@ stanlynewsjournal.com ••• Weekly deadline is Monday at noon.
Member FDIC Mem
B.B. OIL, INC.
STARNES BRAMLETT JEWELERS 126 YEARS AND 4 GENERATIONS OF FINE JEWELRY
Serving Stanly County for 6 Years
A/C CHECKUPS 219 W. Main Street Albemarle, NC 28001
ZZZ ODUU\PFJXLUHUHDOW\ FRP
Hours: M-F 7a-4:30p
Year Round Comfort for Your Home Heating & Air Conditioning x DIESEL x HOME HEATING x KEROSENE x TIRES x BATTERIES x AUTO ACCESSORIES x INSPECTION
704-463-7543
128 Hwy. 49 North y Richfield, NC bboilinc.com
STANLY COUNTY’S OLDEST RETAIL BUSINESS AND NORTH CAROLINA’S FIRST AND ONLY NATIONAL SHIPLEY AWARD WINNER 127 W. Main St., Albemarle NC 704-982-1013 www.starnesbramlett.com
Stanly News Journal 704-982-2121
B3
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Chicago’s Carrington ejected for foul on Fever’s Cunningham, posts ‘white privilege’ The Chicago Sky’s DiJonai Carrington walks off the court after being ejected for a flagrant foul against Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham.
The on-court scuffle continued on social media The Associated Press CHICAGO — DiJonai Carrington of the Chicago Sky was ejected Saturday after being called for a Flagrant 2 foul on Sophie Cunningham of the Indiana Fever. Minutes later, Carrington posted on social media the words “WHITE PRIVILEGE” and tagged the Fever. Cunningham, who is white, was shooting a fast-break layup in the first quarter when Carrington, who is black, came from behind and hit her in the head and neck, knocking her to the court as the shot went in. Cunningham said she thought the foul in the 90-86 Indiana win was “absolutely” intentional. “Clearly I think it was unnecessary,” Cunningham said. “I’ve never really spoken to her and I have no beef with her, but I guess she has some pent up stuff.” Fever coach Stephanie White had a different view of the play. “It was a hard foul,” White said. “I don’t think that DiJonai intentionally came out to get her across the neck like she did, but it did happen, and I thought it was the right call.” Cunningham got up immediately, charged toward Carrington and pushed her as she was held back by a teammate. “I popped up,” Cunningham
PAUL BEATY / AP PHOTO
said. “I’m not going to let anyone just do that to me. I think everyone knows that. I think that’s why she did it because she wants attention.” The play was reviewed and upgraded to a Flagrant 2 after the referee said there was windup, impact and follow-through on the foul. Sky coach Tyler Marsh said he hadn’t seen a replay of the play but that seeing it live, he thought Carrington was making a play on the ball and that he didn’t be-
lieve it warranted a Flagrant 2 foul. “I haven’t looked at that play since, so I really don’t know if it was justified or not,” he said. “But that’s what I thought in the moment.” Marsh was then asked about Carrington’s social media post. “I have to get back to you on that because I’m just now hearing about that,” he said. “So yeah, we’ll handle that.” But Cunningham had plenty to say about the post.
“I think the league is taking care of that,” she said. “This has nothing to do with race. Last year, I did the same thing and I got kicked out. And I deserved to be kicked out. There’s no reason even to play that card.” In the third quarter, Fever star Caitlin Clark was assessed a technical foul after she made contact with a referee when she was forced out of bounds. The technical was Clark’s eighth of the season, triggering a
one-game suspension for Indiana’s next game if not rescinded by the league. “She said I ran into her,” Clark said in a postgame television interview. “I’ve already watched it on the tape, so we’ll let the league decide. But it wasn’t intentional or anything, so I’m hoping it’s getting rescinded,” A few hours after the game, Clark got her way — the WNBA rescinded the technical foul. Cunningham has frequently come to Clark’s defense after physical play by opponents and has become one of the higher-profile players in the league this season. In an ESPN article published last month, she voiced support for barring transgender girls and women from girls’ and women’s sports, which led to small protests and rallies outside Fever games in Seattle and Portland. In a memo to teams last Friday, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert said the league would have ongoing discussions about the issue of transgender participation in women’s basketball. Marsh said the controversy surrounding Cunningham didn’t add anything extra to the game. “We didn’t come into this one with any more or less juice than we’ve had in the last four since the All-Star break,” he said. “Our mindset is trying to win games.” Indiana Fever guard Sophie Cunningham claps as the Chicago Sky’s DiJonai Carrington is ejected from the game after committing a flagrant foul against her.
PAUL BEATY / AP PHOTO
Blazer 9mm Magpul Ever wish you had a 115gr, FMJ Brass Cased
PMAGs
$299/case 10 for $90 Žƌ Ψϭϲͬ Ždž
local store which has The Best Prices on Cases of Ammo? The best selection of factory standard capacity magazines? An AWESOME selection of Modern Sporting Weapons from Leading Manufactures Like, Sig, FN, S&W, etc? Flamethrowers & Gatlin Guns? All at better than on-line prices?
You Do! Del-Ton M4 tŝƚŚ &Ƶůů >ĞŶŐƚŚ ZĂŝů͊
9796 Aberdeen Rd, Aberdeen
KŶ Zƚ Ϯϭϭ ũƵƐƚ ŝŶƐŝĚĞ ,ŽŬĞ ŽƵŶƚLJ͘ tŝƚŚ YƵĂŶƚŝĐŽ dĂĐƚŝĐĂů
Store Hours: dƵĞ Ͳ &ƌŝ͗ ϭϭĂŵ ʹ ϰƉŵ 910.637.0500 www.ProvenOutfitters.com
$499
DĂĚĞ ŝŶ E ͊
Polish Radom AK-47
$649
Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact
$449
tŝƚŚ >ŝŐŚƚ͊
ϯϴ͟ dĂĐƚŝĐĂů ZŝĨůĞ ĂƐĞ͗ ΨϮϬ
B4
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 12, 2026
CLASSIFIEDS
Since 1965
“WE SELL TO SELL AGAIN” 250 West Main Street Albemarle, NC • 704-982-3610
RONKEITH & KEITH BURRIS RON, & SETH BURRIS
Let’s Work Together
2023 NISSAN FRONTIER SV CREW CAB 2025 JEEPV6COMPASS TRAILHAWK 4X4 WHITE 12K LIKE NEW ......... $34,995
AWD WHITE 27K OFF RD PACKAGE 2023 DODGE CHARGER SXT .....................................................25,995 BLACK PACKAGE WHITEBLACK 2024 TOP HONDA RIDGELINE 2,600 MILES SHARP $29,995 EDITION AWD 52K.................... 1 OWNER DIAMOND 2023 CHEV EQUINOX LT 19K ALL WHEEL WHITE .........................................35,995 DRIVE PRETTY GRAYEX JUST .....GRAY $25,995 2024 4CLY HONDA ACCORD 4CLY METFORD 15K ONE ..........TOO 2022 F150OWNER CREW CAB 4X4 5.0 LATE! V8 FX4 2023 HONDA EX ............... DIAMOND WHITE PACKAGE WHITECRV SHARP $35,995 27K SUNROOF 4CLY CLEAN 2022 HONDA CIVIC TOURING LEATHER ...............................................TOO LATE! SUNROOF DIAMOND WHITE LOOK ... $25,995 2023 NISSAN FRONTIER SV CREW CAB 2021 GLADIATOR OVERLAND 4X4 37K 4X4 JEEP V6 WHITE 18K NICE 1.....................................................35,995 OWNER MED RED MET SHARP ..... $36,995 2022HONDA HONDA CIVIC TOURING 2021 ODYSSEY EXL 43K LEATHER SUNROOF NEW TIRES CLEAN ......... $33,995 DIAMOND WHITE 26K LOCAL OWNER ...............................................TOO LATE! 2021 FORD BRONCO SPORT BADLANDS 2021 JEEPNCGLADIATOR 4X4 WHITE ONE OWNEROVERLAND “8K”.... $31,995 4X4 37K 1 OWNER MED RED MET 2021 TOYOTA TACOMA SR5 V6 WHITE ....................................... “NOW” 32,995 DOUBLE CAB 56K BLACK WHEELS ... $31,995 2022 HONDA ODYSSEY EXL V6 2021 TOYOTA RAV4 XLE 49KNC WHITE LEATHER PRETTY BLUE 1 OWNER LOCAL TAN INTERIOR NICE ............ $27,995 ONLY............................................24,995 2022JEEP KIACHEROKEE SORENTOLATITUDE EX LEATHER 3RD 2021 LUX V6 SEAT WOLF GRAY LOW MILES NEW GRAY COLOR 15K SHARP ....... $25,995 ...............................................TOO 2021 NISSAN ALTIMA SR WHITE 16K LATE! 2021LOW FORD BRONCO SPORT CACTUS 4CLY MILES NICE ................. $24,995 GRAY 24K ONE OWNER “THE 2021 SUBARU IMPREZA SPORT NEWEST” ....................................24,995 WAGON 4CLY ALL WHEEL DRIVE 2021 HONDA CIVIC SPORT TOURING 1HATCHBACK 0WNER 23K ............................ SONIC GRAY PEARL$23,995 2020 HONDA CRV EXL DIAMOND WHITE ...............................................TOO LATE! LIGHT INTERIOR “21K” $29,995 2021BEIGE HONDA CRV EXL 67K........ MED GRAY LEATHER SUNROOF VERY CLEAN ........ 2019 SUBARU FORESTER LIMITED DIAMOND 25,995 WHITE 59K 59K LEATHER .............. $25,995 2020CHEV FORD RANGER XLT CREW 2019 BLAZER PREMIER V6 ALLCAB WHEEL 4X4 FX4 RDLEATHER PKG MED.......... RED 22K DRIVE 62K OFF SILVER $24,995 .....................................................29,995 2019 FUSION SE 4CLY 65K RUBY RED 2020FORD CHEVY SILVERADO CREW CAB MET SHARP6.2 ONLY .......... $18,995 Z71NICE 4X4 AND LEATHER ENG 4X4 “NOW” 2019 MAZDA 3 PREMIUM LEATHER 36,995 SUNROOF DIAMOND 43K WHEEL 2019 TOYOTA RAV4WHITE XLE ALL JUST ....................................... DRIVE SUPER WHITE 67K NICE $19,995 .....................................................24,995 2019 TOYOTA CAMRY SE 4CLY POWER SEAT 2019 CHEV LT CREW CAB PRETTY BLUECOLORADO SPORT WHEELS ....... $19,995 V6 Z71 73K 4X4 “RED HOT” SHARP 2019 HONDA CIVIC LX WHITE .....................................................27,995 LOCAL 1 OWNER TRADE NEW TIRES 2018 TOYOTA 4 RUNNER SR5 JUST ....................................... $12,995 PREMIUM 4X4 SILVER 63K LEATHER 2018 XLT V6 LEATHER 3RDFORD SEATEXPLORER ....................................32,995 SILVER “LOWCOLORADO MILES 21K” LT ........ TOOCAB LATE ! 2018 CHEV CREW 2018 CRV EXL80K LEATHER SUNROOF Z71 HONDA 4X4 LEATHER PRETTY GRAY 50K ALL WHEEL DRIVE TAN ........ TOO LATE! .....................................................25,995 2019HONDA CHEV CRV BLAZER V6 ALL 2018 AWD PREMIER TOURING DIAMOND WHEEL DRIVE WHITE 84K LOCAL62K ONESILVER OWNERLEATHER ...... $22,995 .....................................................24,995 2018 TOYOTA COROLLA LE WHITE 2018 KIA SOUL 4CLY MED GRAY 92K “26K” GREAT GAS MILEAGE .......... $18,995 LOCAL TRADE “BEST BUY” ......10,995 2017 TACOMA DOUBLE LIMITED CAB 2017TOYOTA TOYOTA HIGHLANDER LIMITED 4X4 PEARL WHITE 70K ............... BLIZZARD AWD V6 98K $34,995 .....................................................24,995 2017 TOYOTA HIGHLANDER XLE LEATHER 2017 TOYOTA SILVER 3RD SEATTACOMA 79K LOOKDOUBLE ..........CAB $26,995 TRDFORD OFF RD PKG 4X4CAB V6 GRAY 2016 F150 CREW XLT V6 BLACK ...............................................TOO ALL POWER CHROME WHEELS ....... LATE! $21,995 2017 HONDA RIDGELINE RTL-T WHITE 2016 FORD F150 CREW CAB XLT V6 RUBY DIAMOND 27K LOCAL 1 OWNER25,995 RED 112K 2 WHEEL DRIVE............. $19,995 2017 CHEV COLORADO Z71 EXTENDED 2016 TOURING CABHONDA 4X4 V6CRV WHITE 60K WHITE DIAMOND 77K .....................................................23,995 LEATHER SUNROOF ..................... 2017 TOYOTA SIENNA VAN XLE $19,995 LEATHER DIAMOND WHITE 2016 HONDASUNROOF ACCORD EX MED GRAY 4CLY LOADED ..................................... 71K 1 OWNER HARD TO FIND .........17,995 $18,995 2014HONDA FORD CRV F150SEXLT CREW CAB V6 2016 AWD SILVER 107K SILVER “CHECK HER OUT” $16,995 NICE AND94K CLEAN JUST ................. .....................................................15,995 2016 MUSTANG V6 SILVER 2006FORD HONDA ACCORD V6 EXL86K LOCAL LOW MILES SPORTY BUY IT........ ONE OWNER TRADE CLEAN TOO LATE! 2015 JEEP UNLIMITED RUBICON 4X4LATE! SILVER ...............................................TOO
• Coordinator, Clinical Nursing Level II (9 month) • Instructor, Engineering and Networking Technologies (12-month) • Instructor, Medical Assisting (9 month)
•••
Part-Time • Adjunct Instructor, BLET • Adjunct Instructor, Carolina Auction Academy • Adjunct Instructor, Clinical Practical Nursing Program • Adjunct Instructor, Cosmetology “Substitute” • Adjunct Instructor, EMS (EMT Continuing Ed)
Become part of • Adjunct Instructor, Fire/Rescue • Adjunct Instructor, Radiography something great... • Adjunct Instructor, EMS - Paramedic
• Assistant, Health & Public Services - Workforce We are eager to welcome Development
individuals who are dedicated to our mission and committed • Facilitator, ACI to enhancing our community. • Staff, Food Service Interested candidates are invited • Tutoring Specialist, Academic Support Center to browse our open full and part • the website time positions• •via aretoon our for belowJob todescriptions find out how apply website. Please complete an one of our job openings atonline SCC. • Coordinator, Academic Support Center
application at
www.stanly.edu/college-information/ employment-opportunities.
TAKE NOTICE NOTICE
NOTICE
Estate of: Timothy Franklin Huneycutt SR Case Number:26e000281-830 Court: Stanly County Clerk of Superior Court NOTICE TO CREDITORS All persons having claims against the Estate of Timothy Franklin Huneycutt, Sr. are hereby notified that all claims must be presented to the Personal Representative, through the attorney listed below, on or before November 12, 2026, or the claims will be forever barred. Claims should be delivered to: Attorney for the Executor: Charles W. Parnell, Jr. Parnell & Scales Law Office P.O. Box 2300 Albemarle, NC 28002 Phone: (704) 985-1332
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
NOTICE Engineered Tower Solutions, PLLC proposes to add lighting to an existing 100 ft self-support lattice tower. Anticipated lighting application is two red obstruction lights FAA Style A.. The site location is 43222 Lowder Aviation Parkway, New London, NC 28127, Stanly county; Latitude: 35° 24’ 37.58” N, Longitude: 80° 8’ 58.06” W. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Antenna Structure Registration (ASR, Form 854) filing number is A1392212. Interested persons may review the application for this project at www.fcc.gov/asr/applications by entering ASR filing number A1392212 and may raise environmental concerns about the project by filing a Request for Environmental Review with the Federal Communications Commission. Requests for Environmental Review must be filed within 30 days of the date that notice of the project is published on the FCC’s website. The FCC strongly encourages interested parties to file Requests for Environmental Review online at www. fcc.gov/asr/environmentalrequest. Paper requests can be submitted to: FCC Requests for Environmental Review, Attn: Ramon Williiams, 445 12th Street SW, Washington, DC 20554.
NOTICE
;V Z\ITP[ JSHZZPÄLK HKZ LTHPS HKZ' Z[HUS`UL^ZQV\YUHS JVT
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 LOCAL TRADE ........................... $12 ,995
2010 FORD F150TO LARIAT NOTICE CREDITORS NOTICE CREW CAB DIAMOND WHITE 5.4 ENG NORTH CAROLINA “THE KIND” .............................. $17,995NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY COUNTY In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Clerk Before the Clerk 26E000048-830 Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of BOBBIE LOWDER LEE FRICK, deceased, late of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before November 9, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 12th day of August, 2026. LESIA MAYHEW EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF BOBBIE LOWDER LEE FRICK MARK T. LOWDER ATTORNEY AT LAW PO Box 1284 206 E. North St. Albemarle, NC 28001 Telephone (704) 982-8558 Please run Notice: August 12, 19, 26 and September 2, 2026
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
Full-Time • Director, Emergency Medical Sciences Program
www.stanlymotors.net www.stanlymotors.net
PETS
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 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 OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY COUNTY In the General Court of Justice Before the Clerk of Superior Court IN RE: CHANGE OF NAME FROM: KENDALL LANE DAVIS TO: KENDALL LAYNE HUDSON Vs. HOLLY ERIN HUDSON, Petitioner. TO: FATHER OF KENDALL LANE DAVIS: TAKE NOTICE that a pleading seeking relief against you was filed May 20, 2026 in Stanly County, North Carolina in the above-entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: PETITION FOR NAME CHANGE (MINOR) (25SP000155-830) You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than September 22, 2026 to the Stanly County Clerk of Court, P.O. Box 668, Albemarle, NC 28002, Attn: Special Proceedings and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service against you will apply to the Court for the relief sought. This the 12th of August, 2026. PARNELL AND SCALES, PLLC Andrew T. Scales Attorney for Petitioner P.O. Box 2300 Albemarle, NC 28002 PUBLISH: August 12, 2026, August 19, 2026 and August 26, 2026
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. 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 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. 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
CITY OF ALBEMARLE CITY COUNCIL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given: a public hearing will be held by the City of Albemarle City Council pursuant to N.C.G.S. 158-7.1 on Monday, August 24, 2026, at 6:30pm or shortly thereafter in the City Council Chambers in City Hall located at 144 N. Second Street, Albemarle, North Carolina. The purpose of the public hearing is to invite public comment on a proposed economic incentive agreement that will result in a ten (10) year, performancebased business development grant between the City of Albemarle and a confidential retailer that is new to the Albemarle market. This retailer proposes locating an approximately 32,000-square-foot store within the corporate limits of the City of Albemarle. The project is expected to create substantial new full-time and parttime jobs and generate approximately $10,000,000 in annual taxable retail sales. The grant will not exceed $250,000 in total or $25,000 annually and will be paid only after the City verifies annual performance. The grant incentive and related budget amendment will be funded out of General Fund revenues. The grant will support building improvements, machinery and equipment, site work, and other project costs. The City of Albemarle will recover the cost associated with the grant from new tax revenue. The public will benefit from additional property, business, and sales tax revenue, stimulation of the overall economy, expanded employment opportunities, and increased access to essential provisions in the City of Albemarle. It is the intention of the City Council to consider approval of the proposed incentive agreement following the public hearing. All interested persons are invited to attend this hearing. Persons needing special assistance or language assistance should contact Christina Brown, City Clerk, at 704-9849411 or cbrown@albemarlenc.gov at least 48 hours prior to the hearing.
B5
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 12, 2026
Bono, Vedder among mourners at funeral of songwriter Glen Hansard The Oscar-winning Irish singer died in a motorcycle crash at age 56
Steve Coogan and Chris O’Dowd arrive for the funeral of Glen Hansard at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin on Aug. 4.
The Associated Press DUBLIN — Hundreds of mourners including Irish musicians and entertainers filled a Dublin cathedral Aug. 4 for the funeral of Academy Award-winning singer-songwriter Glen Hansard, who died in a motorcycle crash July 29 at the age of 56. Actors Steve Coogan and Chris O’Dowd and musicians including Bono, Hozier, Declan O’Rourke and Imelda May were in the congregation alongside friends, family and fans who had queued for hours outside St. Patrick’s Cathedral. A large crowd watched on big screens outside as pallbearers carried a wicker coffin topped with flowers into the cathedral. “Glen’s remarkable gifts and outstanding talent, which touched so many hearts, took him from the streets of Dublin
DAMIEN EAGERS / PA VIA AP
to audiences across the globe,” William Morton, the dean of the cathedral, said. The funeral service was interwoven with music, including a performance by Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder, who sang Hansard’s
“The Song of Good Hope” alongside Hansard’s longstanding musical partner, Markéta Irglová. “Everyone who met him, they just remembered the day they met him,” U2’s Bono said of Hansard.
Bono held up his phone to play a message he’d received from singer and poet Patti Smith performing “a lullaby for Glen’s family and friends,” before reciting lyrics to U2’s “Beautiful Day.”
Hansard was killed in a single-vehicle crash on the outskirts of Dublin on July 29, hours after taking part in a trad music session at a pub. His widow, Finnish poet Maire Saaritsa, thanked the police officers who came to his aid and read a poem she had written for him early in their relationship. She said the couple’s 3-year-old son was too young to attend or understand the funeral, but “the bright spirit he inherited from his father is with us.” Hansard was the longtime front man of Irish rock band The Frames and played a member of a Dublin soul band in the hit 1991 movie “The Commitments.” He won an Oscar in 2008 for the song “Falling Slowly” from the movie “Once,” in which he co-starred with Irglová. A stage adaptation won eight Tony Awards in 2012. Hansard also was half of rock duo The Swell Season with Irglová and released solo albums including “Didn’t He Ramble,” which was nominated for a Grammy for Best Folk Album in 2016. For many years he led a Christmas Eve busk outside Dublin’s Gaiety Theatre, where members of the public gathered to see famous Irish musicians perform in aid of a homelessness charity.
TAKE NOTICE NOTICE
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
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000001-830 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Tanika L. Snyder and Jody D. Snyder (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Tanika L. Snyder and Jody D. Snyder) to Susan D. Wagner and Steven M. Poynot, a Maryland Corporation, Trustee(s), dated December 23, 2016, and recorded in Book No. 1600, at Page 846 in Stanly 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 Stanly 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 Albemarle, Stanly County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on August 26, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Locust in the County of Stanly, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows:
26SP000117-830 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 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
NOTICE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION STANLY COUNTY 26SP000036-830 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY CRYSTAL ANN DAVIS DATED APRIL 8, 2022 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1781 AT PAGE 1651 IN THE STANLY 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
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
A certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Stanly , and State of North Carolina, in Red Cross Township, and more particularly described as follows: Lying and being in Stanly County, North Carolina and being a 5.754 acre tract as shown in Plat Book 24, page 204, PIN Number 559604537154 and being Tract Four as shown on the Division Survey of a 94.67 acre tract of the Bessie E. Whitley Trust dated April 20, 2015, prepared by Bruce A. Daniels Land Surveying, and as shown in the prepared by S.M. Sandy Surveying dated September 24, 2015 and recorded in Plat Book 24 at page 204 stated herein above. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 20256 Jacob Road, Locust, North Carolina. The improvements thereon being commonly known as 20256 Jacob Road, NC 28097. Being the same lot or parcel of ground which by Deed dated November 3, 2015 and recorded November 18, 2015 among the Land Records of Stanly County, State of North Carolina, in Book: 1545, Page: 294 was granted and conveyed/assigned by and between MITCHELENE TATE, UNMARRIED, unto TANIKA L. SNYDER AND SPOUSE, JODY D. SNYDER. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion,
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. 18-2840 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. 10-58-36 W. 65.53 FEET IN THE POINT OF BEGINNING, AND CONTAINING 0.5 ACRE, MORE OR LESS.
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.
NC 8 Hwy, New London, NC 28127.
Williams and wife, Renea G. Williams.
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.
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.
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.
delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.
Said property is commonly known as 44058
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 Brian Keith
of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Stanly County courthouse at 11:00AM on August 27, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Stanly County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Crystal Ann Davis, dated April 8, 2022 to secure the original principal amount of $166,649.00, and recorded in Book 1781 at Page 1651 of the Stanly 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: 43776 Cypress Crossing Road, New London, NC 28127 Tax Parcel ID: 5135
Present Record Owners: Crystal Ann Davis The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Crystal Ann Davis. 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
Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record.
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
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”.
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: 29729 - 153489
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
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
File No.: 26-07337-FC01
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 August 10, 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: 25-123473
B6
Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 12, 2026
SUDOKU
OLIVE Solution to last issue’s puzzle
Solution to this issue’s puzzles
[[Yä kknÊ
È··¸ä äȹºä äȹµä ȸµ½ä ä¾kk 855-910-AMMO
NCammunition.com
VOLUME 8 ISSUE 37 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026
SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 919-663-3232
THE FORSYTH COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
CHUCK BURTON / AP PHOT0
Deacon dominance Wake Forest alumnus Michael Brennan won the Wyndham Championship at Sedgefield Country Club in Greensboro on Sunday. The win was his second career PGA Tour victory, earning him a spot in the FedExCup Playoffs. For more, turn to NSJ Sports.
WHAT’S HAPPENING Contiguous U.S. breaks record for hottest month ever, NOAA says The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says the contiguous United States set a record for its hottest month ever in July. Last month averaged 76.89 degrees Fahrenheit across the Lower 48 states, eclipsing the Dust Bowl’s July 1936 by an eighth of a degree. Although it was unusually cool in Alaska, hotter than normal conditions blanketed the Lower 48, with the most excessive heat in the Mountain West, Southwest, Northern Plains and Southeast. The biggest driver of the heat was at night. Nighttime lows, which are crucial for people and agriculture to recover from hot days, smashed the old record for hottest minimums by 0.7 degrees, the NOAA said.
U.S. existing homes fall 1.7% in July as record prices, high rates stifle would-be buyers Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes slowed again in July as record prices and the highest mortgage rates in more than a year prove to be an insurmountable hurdle for many prospective homebuyers. The National Association of Realtors said Tuesday that existing home sales fell 1.7% last month from June to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.06 million units. July sales, however, were up 0.7% over last year. Home prices continued to rise, hitting unprecedented levels for July. The U.S. median sales price increased 2% from a year earlier, to $434,100.
$2.00
Superintendent Phipps announces intention to retire from WS/FCS He has served in the role since last December By Ryan Henkel Twin City Herald WINSTON-SALEM — Less than a year after assuming his role, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools Superintendent Don Phipps has announced his intention to retire and resign from his current position next month. “Today I am doing something that I have thought about throughout my professional career but never knew when it would happen,” Phipps said at a special called meeting of the WSFCS Board of Education on Aug. 6. “I’ve been told that I would know when the time is right, and the time now is right for me.” Phipps, who has worked in education for more than 33
years, started with WS/FCS in December 2025, and although he signed a 15-month contract at that time, he announced that he intends to retire on Sept. 30. “This decision is a difficult one for me because of the time I have spent in education and the large percentage of my life that has been devoted to this work,” Phipps said. “I want to stress that this decision is based on significant personal responsibilities and demands on me that I believe deserve my time, attention and energy.” The board also voted to accept Phipps’ resignation with just a single dissenting vote (Trevonia Brown-Gaither). According to the superintendent, the timing of his resignation comes due to the need and desire to be closer to his family, specifically his mother, who lives in Cumberland County.
“I’ve been told that I would know when the time is right, and the time now is right for me.” Superintendent Don Phipps
“My brothers and I, along with a few family members, are the primary caregivers for my 88-year-old mother,” Phipps said. “I feel the need to be more engaged in and involved with her care and a more available support for my brothers. Currently, I am limited to weekend support, and I simply want to do more.” While Phipps had only been superintendent for approximately nine months, the school system made signifi-
Trump officials propose new scrutiny of food ingredients The rule would close a decades-old loophole allowing companies to self-approve food additives By Matthew Perrone The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. health officials on Monday proposed a rule change that would require food manufacturers to notify regulators before introducing new ingredients or additives into processed or packaged foods. The proposal would change a decades-old policy that advocates have called a regulato-
“Shifting to a mandatory notification system closes a decades-old information gap, giving the FDA the comprehensive visibility needed to enhance postmarket safety.” Kyle Diamantas, acting FDA commissioner ry loophole, blaming it for allowing thousands of unvetted ingredients into the U.S. food supply. Under the proposed rule from the Food and Drug Administration, companies would have to document and submit their safety findings for new ingredients, giving regulators the
opportunity to investigate if they see a potential safety risk. Currently, companies can decide for themselves if an ingredient or additive is “generally recognized as safe,” and there is no requirement for companies to notify or submit evidence to the FDA, although some do. “Shifting to a mandatory no-
cant strides under his leadership, most notably the fact that the district announced just a week earlier that it had completely paid off its $45 million debt that had arisen under the tenure of the previous superintendent. “While there is still much work to be done, I believe that I am stepping away at a time where our system is in a better place,” Phipps said. “Though it was for a short time, it was during an extremely significant time, where we needed a strong leader to get us across the finish line of a very difficult 18 months,” said board member Leah Crowley. According to WS/FCS Board Chair Deanna Kaplan, the search for a new interim superintendent will begin immediately. The WSFCS Board of Education will next meet Aug. 25.
tification system closes a decades-old information gap, giving the FDA the comprehensive visibility needed to enhance postmarket safety,” acting FDA Commissioner Kyle Diamantas told reporters Monday. The FDA will take comments on the proposal for 120 days. Government scrutiny of ultraprocessed food continues, but with few details In a separate move, the FDA said it completed work on the federal government’s first definition of ultraprocessed food but did not release any details or the proposed language. The agency said it has submitted the definition to the White House for further review. Health advocates consider an official definition of See FOOD, page A2
A2
Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 13, 2026
THURSDAY
8.13.26 #413
Trump announces staff secretary Scharf will be new White House counsel The timing comes ahead of midterm elections where Democrats have promised investigations
“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
The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump announced Sunday that his new White House counsel will be Will Scharf, the staff secretary who as the Trump-appointed head of the National Capital Planning Commission helped secure approval for the $400 million ballroom project. Trump said, beginning Sept. 1, Scharf will be replacing David Warrington, who will be leaving the administration to join the private sector. Trump noted that Scharf previously served as a federal prosecutor and represented him in a number of cases, including at the Supreme Court. “Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart! He also loves our Country, and respects the Law,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Will Scharf will do a great job as White House Counsel!” The shakeup in the White House counsel’s office comes at a critical juncture — just months ahead of the midterm elections, where Trump’s Republican Party will be fighting to hold on to control of Congress. Democrats have vowed to pursue investigations into Trump and his administration if they are successful in November. The White House counsel’s job is to advise on legal and policy questions related to the presidency. The office is the primary White House contact for the Justice Department, and it handles presidential pardons, works on judicial appointments and reviews leg-
ALEX BRANDON / AP PHOTO
White House staff secretary Will Scharf, left, hands President Donald Trump an executive order to sign in the Oval Office on Sept. 5, 2025.
“Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart! He also loves our Country, and respects the Law.” President Donald Trump islation. The office also helps investigate and manage congressional investigations into the administration and lawsuits against the president when he is sued in his official capacity. During Trump’s first term, Scharf worked to get judges and justices confirmed for him. They included U.S. Supreme Court Justices Brett Kavanaugh — who himself served as White House staff secretary for President George W. Bush
— and Amy Coney Barrett. In the period when Trump was out of office, Scharf joined his legal team in October 2023 and was one of his lawyers in the election interference case brought by special counsel Jack Smith. The case went before the Supreme Court, which ruled that presidents enjoy sweeping immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts. Scharf is among several of Trump’s lawyers who have been rewarded with spots in his second administration. Todd Blanche, who represented Trump during the Republican’s hush money trial in New York, was confirmed last week as attorney general. As White House staff secretary, Scharf was responsible for managing the papers that cross the president’s desk.
Taylor Farms recalls jalapeno products over salmonella concerns The recall follows a lettuce recall from Taylor Farms issued weeks ago By Michelle Chapman The Associated Press
Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: forsythcommunity@ northstatejournal.com Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon
TAYLOR FRESH FOODS, parent company of Taylor Farms, is voluntarily recalling some products that include jalapenos because of worries about a possible salmonella contamination. The announcement comes a few weeks after Taylor Farms voluntarily recalled its ice-
FOOD from page A1 ultraprocessed food a key step toward bringing greater scrutiny to packaged foods that are blamed for multiple chronic health problems afflicting Americans. A government-backed definition could pave the way for more federal research and, eventually, possible labeling or other restrictions on processed foods. Neither of Monday’s announcements are likely to immediately impact American diets, which are packed with fats, sodium and sugar and are blamed for a host of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease. But both initiatives are considered top priorities for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who entered government vowing to crack down on artificial colors, additives and other ingredients. Ultraprocessed foods are made using industrial processing and additives, colors, preservatives or other ingredients not found in home kitchens. The foods include sugary cereals, sodas, chips, frozen piz-
berg lettuce products sourced from central Mexico because of a potential link to a multistate cyclospora outbreak that has sickened people across the U.S. Taylor Fresh Foods said that it was pulling some products including jalapenos from store shelves after finding out that Coast Citrus Distributors was voluntarily recalling fresh jalapenos due to a potential salmonella contamination. Guacamole, pico de gallo and taco dip are some of the prepared foods included in
the recall. The list of recalled products were distributed by Taylor Farms in multiple states with a “Best If Used By” date up to and including Aug. 16, 2026. The products were sold at stores including Kroger, Stop & Shop, Target, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s and Walmart. Taylor Fresh Foods said the Food and Drug Administration and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention were working with state and local partners to investigate illnesses in a multistate outbreak of salmonella infections linked
zas and other grocery items. Scientists have been working to define and classify processed foods for well over a decade. But sweeping definitions come with downsides. They can be often applied to foods like whole grain bread, yogurt and granola that are all highly processed but still considered nutritious. Some recent efforts to define ultraprocessed foods include carve-outs for foods that meet nutrition standards despite having processed ingredients.
The FDA’s Diamantas stressed Monday that the new policy would not require all new ingredients to undergo FDA review. He said that type of mandatory review would need to be enacted by Congress in order to rewrite FDA’s authority over the food supply. “What we’re doing is requiring companies that utilize the pathway to notify us of their conclusions so that we have greater visibility into those conclusions and consumers have awareness,” Diamantas said. Under the proposal, the FDA would be expected to review new ingredient submission within 180 days. If FDA regulators have safety concerns, they could request additional information from manufacturers or request that they delay introducing the ingredient.
FDA proposal would bring new insights on additives used by food companies In the U.S., an estimated 10,000 additives are allowed in food, including thickeners, preservatives and packaging ingredients. Consumer advocates have long argued that many of those ingredients have never been properly vetted because of the FDA’s policy allowing manufacturers to certify for themselves that new additives are “generally recognized as safe,” or GRAS.
Rule change in 1990s created so-called loophole Any substance intentionally added to food is supposed to undergo formal review — unless the additive is considered
He is at Trump’s side when the president signs executive orders and often provides running narration on what Trump is signing. Trump in July 2025 named Scharf as chair of the National Capital Planning Commission, the executive branch agency with jurisdiction over construction and major renovations to government buildings in the region. Trump’s ballroom won final approval from the NCPC in April, though a divided federal appeals court ruled last Friday that construction on the project must stop because Congress had not approved it. Trump has vowed to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. The project is already well on its way and has begun to rise above ground on the east side of the White House.
to fresh jalapenos supplied by Coast Citrus Distributors. The company said a grower in Sinaloa, Mexico, a supplier to Coast Citrus Distributors, was identified as the potential source in the outbreak. Taylor Fresh Foods said it is no longer sourcing products from the farmer and will be filling orders from alternative suppliers. The company is currently not aware of any reported illnesses linked to its products containing jalapenos. Consumers who have any recalled product are advised to discard it immediately and not eat it. Refunds are available at the location of purchase. Consumers with any questions can contact Taylor at 855-455-0098 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. PT.
safe. Since the late 1950s, the government recognized that many common ingredients in foods, such as spices and vinegar, were widely consumed and understood to be safe for consumption. The FDA policed the GRAS exemption for years, but it took time and resources. Starting in 1997, the FDA began allowing companies to independently determine that a new additive is safe based on publicly available scientific evidence and the consensus of qualified experts. However, the list of products deemed GRAS by companies grew to include many synthetic and natural additives, all incorporated into the food supply without independent review. The process has created a “secret GRAS loophole,” according to the consumer advocacy group Center for Science in the Public Interest, that “undermines the integrity of our food safety system.” Food industry officials contend their internal reviews of additives are as rigorous as the FDA’s own processes.
Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 13, 2026
A3
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH
The hard lesson for AIPAC
The message to other candidates is clear: AIPAC money comes with a price.
THERE ARE PLENTY of explanations for what happened in the Michigan Senate Democratic primary, where Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive, was declared the victor over Rep. Haley Stevens, a moderate, by a razor-thin margin of 1%. For starters, he was the outsider, a former public health official talking about the fundamental economic issues, while she was Sen. Chuck Schumer’s second choice (after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer) for the seat. He was, according to observers, the better communicator, the better orator, connecting on issues of affordability while she was expounding on her love for Michigan. He worked harder. He started campaigning well over a year ago and did some 500 public events against a candidate who stayed mostly out of the public eye and dodged tough questions. And the polls were wrong, as usual. The polls were projecting a double-digit El-Sayed victory. That didn’t happen. It turned into a cliffhanger, and El-Sayed only won by a razor-thin margin. So in that sense, as is always true of very close races, anything could have made the difference. But there are certain facts coming out of Michigan that cannot be denied. Stevens was supported by some $60 million in outside money, including more than $30 million from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. That’s AIPAC, for short, the pro-Israel lobby that used to wield enormous clout in Washington and in national politics. Her extraordinary support from AIPAC became an issue in the campaign, as did her opponent’s stance on Israel. El-Sayed is the sort of candidate AIPAC exists to defeat. He believes that Israel committed genocide in Gaza. He has pledged to cut U.S. military aid to Israel. And, according to The New
York Times, he has said he does not believe Israel should exist as an explicitly Jewish state. Throughout the campaign, El-Sayed attacked Stevens for her pro-Israel position and said he hoped to go to Washington to influence policy on Israel, especially among the party’s 2028 hopefuls. AIPAC spent more money, according to the Times, trying to beat El-Sayed than any outside group has in a primary this year. They put more than $30 million on the scale and became a much-debated issue in the campaign for doing so. The message to other candidates is clear: AIPAC money comes with a price. Did it hurt Stevens more than it helped her? While apologists for AIPAC may spin that even with prevailing winds against them, they almost pulled it off, the fact of the matter is that they didn’t pull it off. They lost. A few years ago, there would have been no place in the Democratic Party for a candidate like El-Sayed. His views on Palestine would have been unacceptable. He would not have been given a speaking role at a convention. As I write this, the party is unifying behind him to give him a speaking and voting role in the U.S. Senate. As the polls have measured, accurately, public opinion on Israel has shifted dramatically, and negatively. Some of us continue, albeit with difficulty, to draw a line between our support for Israel and our opposition to its current government, but most people don’t. They don’t view Israel through the Holocaust-tinged glasses of my generation. We know this. AIPAC has to know this. The lesson of Michigan cannot be that they just needed a little more money. The message is not working. Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
COLUMN | LARRY ELDER
AI cannot give writers something to say
Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed.
AFTER NEARLY 35 YEARS as a talk show host, I’ve had many young broadcasters ask me, “What’s the secret?” My answer always surprises them because it’s so short. “Have something to say.” Most expect advice about voice, pacing, interview techniques, social media or how to handle callers. Those things matter. But they’re secondary. If you don’t have an interesting idea, no amount of polish will keep an audience listening. The audience may admire your delivery for a while, but eventually it wants substance. It wants a reason to come back tomorrow. The same principle applies to writing. Someone once asked me, “What makes a good writer?” My answer was the same: “Having something to say.” Good grammar helps. A large vocabulary helps. A clever turn of phrase helps. But readers don’t return because of sentence structure. They return because the writer consistently offers an insight, an argument or an observation they had not considered before. The style attracts attention. The ideas keep it. That’s one reason the rise of artificial intelligence doesn’t worry me nearly as much as it worries some people. AI can make a sentence cleaner. It can tighten a paragraph. It can suggest a better headline, organize research and identify weaknesses in an argument. It can save a substantial amount of time in tracking down sources. Those are remarkable tools. But recently, a judge blasted an attorney whose legal brief cited cases that were either nonexistent or did not support the proposition for which they were cited. Blind and lazy reliance on AI was the likely culprit. But AI cannot live your life for you. It cannot accumulate your experiences, your failures, your successes, your conversations or your observations. Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed. AI can help you communicate an idea more effectively, but it cannot give you a lifetime from which original ideas are born. The same lesson appears in coaching. NFL coach Bum Phillips once paid Hall of Fame coach Don Shula perhaps the greatest compliment one coach has ever paid another: “He can take his’n and beat your’n. And your’n and beat his’n.” In other words, if Shula had the better team, he would beat you. But if you had the
better team, he might beat you anyway. Phillips was saying that great coaches first maximize their advantages. Then, every so often, they overcome their disadvantages. When I practiced law, I came to a similar conclusion about trial lawyers. A good trial lawyer wins all the cases he should — and a few he shouldn’t. He doesn’t lose the cases he should win through poor preparation or weak advocacy. Then, once in a while, through judgment, preparation and persuasion, he wins a case the facts and the law suggest he would lose. The exceptional performer first masters the fundamentals. Only then can he elevate his craft. In broadcasting, they ask about microphones instead of ideas. In writing, they ask about style instead of substance. In coaching, they ask about strategy instead of talent. In law, they ask about courtroom theatrics instead of judgment. The essentials come first. Everything else is an enhancement. Technology can improve prose, summarize documents and organize research in seconds. Those advances are valuable, even remarkable, but none answers the question that matters most: What do you actually think? If you have nothing worth saying, technology won’t rescue you. If you do have something worth saying, technology becomes a force multiplier, enabling you to communicate more clearly and more efficiently. Despite all the technological changes during my career — from computers and the internet to radio and podcasts and now to artificial intelligence — the secret remains the same. It applies to writing a column, hosting a radio show, giving a speech or leading a meeting. People still hunger for fresh ideas, honest observations and genuine insight. They still appreciate someone who can make sense of confusing events or articulate what others struggle to say. After all these years behind a microphone, through changing technologies and changing media, my answer remains the same. Every profession has an indispensable first principle. Miss it, and no amount of technique will save you. Have something to say. Larry Elder is an author and nationally syndicated radio talk show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com.)
A4
Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 13, 2026
TERRY CHEA / AP PHOTO
Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, center, appears on stage at the Vintage Computer Festival in Mountain View, California, on Aug. 2.
As AI grips world, thrill of collecting vintage computers grows
Gates to incorporate the technologies in their early products. Dersch’s exhibit featured a fully functioning Xerox Alto workstation with its boxy vertical monitor, chunky keyboard and mouse, as well as pizza-sized spinning disks that store tiny amounts of data by modern standards. “It’s fun to share what I’ve done with people. It’s fun to share in what other people have done,” Dersch said. “Also, there’s a consignment area where I can buy more junk to take home with me, so that’s always fun.” Klein, a Silicon Valley software engineering manager, was a passionate collector until his hobby overwhelmed his home and family life. He had as many as 150 computer systems — complete with accessories, documents and packaging — crammed into his closets and garage. He said his beloved collection had become an “albatross,” and he worried about burdening his family. So he started selling and giving away his machines until he only had a few favorites left at home.
Collectors worldwide are preserving older hardware that pioneered the digital age By Terry Chea The Associated Press MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — Software engineer Josh Dersch loves old computers. He spends countless hours tinkering in his garage, trying to coax decades-old machines back to life. He estimates he owns more than 200 vintage computers and devices in his Seattle home. “It’s always been fascinating to me to see the origins of things,” Dersch said. “It’s a fun challenge to debug and repair. You can understand the entire system from top to bottom.” Dersch is part of a growing community of vintage computer collectors who are preserving the classic machines that helped launch the digital revolution. While Silicon Valley has since moved on to shaping the future of artificial intelligence, these hardware enthusiasts are intent on saving the Atari, Commodore and IBM machines that are ancestors to today’s laptops, wearable devices and smart phones. Where others see junk, people like Dersch see artifacts of computer history that are worthy of attention and respect. They delight in hearing the beeps and chimes of their childhood and firing up a low-def game of “Pong” or “Space Invaders.” “The enthusiasm for the history of computers and all the stuff around it is growing,” said Erik Klein, president of the Vintage Computer Federation, which organizes an annual festival at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View in the heart of Silicon Valley. Vintage computer festivals bring collectors together This year, more than 3,500 people attended the two-day Vintage Computer Festival in early August that celebrat-
Software engineer Josh Dersch, standing, shows a 1970s Xerox Alto computer he restored at the Vintage Computer Festival in Mountain View, California, on Sunday. — the company’s first product — can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars. Collectors exhibited the computer systems that they have painstakingly restored to their original working condition, allowing attendees to play with the computers built long before the internet, social media and AI transformed the world. Restoring “grandfather of the modern computer”
Arion Paylo repairs a circuit board at the Vintage Computer Festival on Sunday. ed the 50th anniversary of Apple, founded in 1976 in nearby Cupertino, California. It featured a panel with co-founders Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne reminiscing about the company’s early days as a scrappy startup led by the late Steve Jobs.
More than a dozen such gatherings have since sprung up in cities across North America, South America and Europe. Growing interest is reflected in more demand for vintage computers in online marketplaces, Klein said. Rare, iconic computers like the Apple-1
Dersch drove down from Seattle to showcase the pride of his collection: the Xerox Alto. He spent years restoring what’s considered “the grandfather of the modern computer,” which was developed at the pioneering Xerox Palo Alto Research Center in the 1970s. The Alto was one of the earliest computers to move beyond text on screen and use the mouse and graphical user interface — such as windows, icons and cursors — that became the industry standard. The model famously inspired Jobs and Bill
Similar events for collectors spread around world Now Klein channels his passion for vintage computers into organizing festivals, repair workshops, swap meets and other events as president of the Vintage Computer Federation. “So it’s really about evangelizing that history and evangelizing this hobby of maintaining, collecting and enjoying this vintage technology,” Klein said. Sellam Ismail is thrilled to see the collector community develop and mature since he organized the first festival in 1997, drawing about 150 hobbyists to a venue east of San Francisco. He ran the events for a decade. He later co-founded the Vintage Computer Federation, which runs festivals in the U.S. and Canada. He’s helped other groups launch similar festivals in Argentina, Germany and Switzerland. “The community grew up. More and more people started getting old computers, started collecting them,” said Ismail, who once had a massive collection he stored in a warehouse. “Next year is the 30th anniversary. And I expect this to continue and grow even bigger.” Left, a 1981 Commodore SP9000 “Super PET” computer and floppy disk drives are displayed. Right, attendees play on Apple Macintosh computers from the 1980s.
PHOTOS BY TERRY CHEA / AP PHOTO
Forsyth SPORTS Linemen pay price for success with selfless work ethic No football team can win big without efficient work by its unsung heroes By Michael Jaenicke Twin City Herald FORMER LINEMAN and current high school head coach Tim Grady frequently tells his running backs, “Go ahead and try to do it without an O-line.” Another assistant coach in the state, Jeremy Joyner, takes the duties and responsibilities a step further, coming short of calling linemen “Protectors of the Universe.” “It’s the only job in sports that the sole responsibility is to protect everyone else,” Joyner said. Assistant coach and ex-lineman Brad Rhodes says linemen, “must be selfless individuals.” In other words, it’s all guts and little personal glory. That is just part of what makes linemen special. And before this goes further, let’s dismiss the thought that linemen are just fat and lazy players. It’s as far from the truth as it can be, says Jacksonville offensive coordinator Pat Byrd, who said “linemen are the smartest players on the team.” Part of that is because linemen are more into the mental aspect of the game than meets the surface. Playbook proficient players Most coaches agree that linemen must not just know what to do during a given play but also know the roles of every other player on his side of the ball while reading the tendencies and focus of a defense. “Because of that, we tend to make our assignments and calls as simple as possible for them,” Rhodes said. And linemen must be physically prepared. “They must be in shape, and weight training is also mandatory,” Grady said. “They carry 50 more pounds (than other players), and we ask them to go nearly every down on both sides of the ball all night long. You have to be conditioned to take that kind of hitting and running. It takes its toll after two or three quarters.” And size is not the final word
SPONSORED BY
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Reese Williams
DAVID SINCLAIR FOR TWIN CITY HERALD
Pinecrest’s offensive line gets into position prior to last season. on a player. In fact, there’s more technique than most fans can imagine. “It’s much more than just running,” Joyner said. “You have to know the fundamentals. If not, you will get beat often by someone you should beat nearly every time. It’s about good footwork and knowing what you are doing. Big bodies fall when players don’t have the fundamentals down. “But think about it. Every play you are delivering punishment, and that’s a lot over the course of a game.” Unity, solidarity in trenches Linemen must also be a unit of brothers. “Five guys, at least, must be on one accord,” Grady said. “The successful ones look at how a defense is denting us instead of it’s nothing but raw strength and want-to.” Smaller schools usually have smaller than average linemen (5-foot-9 to 6-foot-1 and 185 to 225 pounds) but often run the ball effectively against much larger lines. Bigger classifications require more height and beef (6-1 to 6-3 and 250 to 300 and more pounds). That’s normally the size colleges expect from incoming players. Last year, Jordan-Matthews had one player listed above 300 pounds and two more at 295. Four Seaforth players are listed above 250 on this year’s team. They are 4A and 5A, respectively. Meanwhile, 8A schools in the Triangle area like Durham Jordan and Raleigh’s Leesville Road can start players that size at all five spots on the line, with plenty more ready to step in as subs.
Linemen make or break a team, and they often carry the spirit of a team. “It’s not about glory because no one is tracking pancake blocks,” Rhodes said. “If an NFL defensive player makes one sack a game, he’s going to be an All-Pro. But if an offensive lineman gives up even a few sacks, he’s going to be dropped.” There’s a brotherhood of linemen. “It’s a blue-collar job, and here we don’t have to sell them on it because they humbly work for the team,” Grady said. “It’s a very humbling role, so having the right players there and having them play together is what it’s all about.” Joyner agrees. “They’re really some of the best kids to coach because it’s not about them,” he said. “It’s one unit, and though you can have a standout player or big physical guy, if the line is not cohesive everything else is for naught.” Center play is critical Kevin Motsinger, an offensive coordinator and O-line coach, said the action begins in the middle of the field and matriculates outward. “Center is the most important position on the field because nothing happens until he gets the ball to the quarterback,” he said. Motsinger went on to say communication and interaction at the line is his favorite part of football. “It’s like an arts performance to me,” he said. “And let me say this: Our success will be 100% on our offensive and defensive lines.”
COURTESY HUDL
West Forsyth, girls’ soccer Reese Williams is a 2026 graduate of West Forsyth High School who played for the girls’ soccer team. She also played basketball for the Titans. Williams was second on the team in goals and third in assists last season as West Forsyth went unbeaten in conference play. Williams picked up a postseason honor when she got selected to the West team in the North Carolina East-West All-Star Game. She played in the game last month in High Point along with Titans teammate Natalie Kerth.
Gibbs holds on to win NASCAR Cup Series race at Iowa Speedway Clever pit strategy gave Joe Gibbs’ grandson his second career win By John Bohnenkamp The Associated Press NEWTON, Iowa — Ty Gibbs didn’t question his crew chief’s final pit call. “I can’t do anything about it, so you just run with it,” Gibbs said. Gibbs used late pit strategy and held off Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Christopher Bell over the final 20 laps to win the NASCAR Cup Series race Sunday at Iowa Speedway. Gibbs — the 23-year-old grandson of former NFL coaching great and NASCAR team owner Joe Gibbs — won by 0.253 seconds over Bell for his second victory of the season and his career. Gibbs and Bell each pitted with 60 laps remaining in the 350-lap race, but while Bell took
four tires, Gibbs just went with two right-side tires and came out ahead. And when leader Ross Chastain pitted on Lap 330, Gibbs took over the top spot and fought off a late charge by Bell. Tyler Allen, Gibbs’ crew chief, thought taking two tires was the only chance to get ahead of Bell in that final pit cycle. “We knew after practice the left sides weren’t wearing much and they tended to refire OK,” Allen said. “So in terms of coming into the race, it was definitely a viable option.” Gibbs liked the aggressive call. “I think in the position with our points situation, for sure,” he said. Gibbs, who picked up his first career win April 12 at Bristol, came into the race ranked fourth in the season standings and moved into second — 103 points behind JGR teammate Denny Hamlin. Gibbs, who had an issue in the pits on his first stop of the day when his jack fell too early
CHARLIE NEIBERGALL / AP PHOTO
Ty Gibbs, right, celebrates after winning Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Newton, Iowa. during the tire change, fell back to 28th before charging back. “You’re kind of hosed after that deal,” Gibbs said. “So you’ve got to stay locked in and keep working.” It was the seventh second-place finish of the season for Bell, who led 108 laps. “Ty did a really good job,” Bell said. “He did a great job of managing the race.” Pole-sitter Ryan Blaney, who won the inaugural 2024 Cup Series race at the 0.875-mile oval, was third after leading a race-high 129 laps. Josh Berry finished fourth. It
was Berry’s best finish of the season and only his third top-10 finish. Hamlin finished fifth. Chase Briscoe was sixth. Chastain recovered to finish seventh. AJ Allmendinger was eighth, followed by defending race winner William Byron. Austin Dillon was 10th. Reddick’s struggles Tyler Reddick’s summer struggles continued when he crashed into Erik Jones four laps into the race. The rear end of Reddick’s car slid entering Turn 1, and Reddick
ran into Jones before hitting the wall. Reddick finished last in the 36-car field. “One-hundred percent that was on me,” Reddick said. “It’s something I don’t normally do, make those kinds of mistakes. Just gut-wrenching on a lot of levels. I thought we kind of figured out what we needed to do for the race today and made a killer mistake earlier.” Reddick won the first three races of the season and four of the first six, and he has five wins overall. But he has had four finishes of 30th place or worse in the last six races.
the better pa ing to earn a stitutions,” U don’t know w now.” The outbre for millions taking virtu while also d about tuition
B2 SIDELINE REPORT NASCAR
NASCAR’s exhibition Clash returning to Daytona Daytona Beach, Fla. NASCAR’s exhibition Clash is returning to Daytona International Speedway for the first time in six years. The race will be Feb. 13, 2027. It doesn’t count for points and is the lead-up to the season-opening Daytona 500 on Feb. 21. Daytona hosted the Clash from 1979 to 2021. It was moved to Los Angeles Memorial Stadium for three years and then relocated to tiny Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem the last two years in a return to NASCAR’s grassroots racing.
NFL
Bears add experience to secondary by signing safety Woods Chicago The Chicago Bears added significant experience to their secondary by signing safety Xavier Woods. Woods has started in 121 games in nine NFL seasons. The Bears placed defensive back Dallis Flowers on injured reserve following an injury to his right leg. The 31-year-old Woods has 15 career interceptions, including two in 11 games for Tennessee last season. He had 39 tackles for the Titans. Woods played his first four seasons with Dallas, where he started 48 of 60 games. He also has played for Minnesota and Carolina.
SOCCER
Australia grants citizenship to pair of Iranian women’s soccer players Melbourne, Australia Two Iranian women soccer players who sought asylum in Australia have been granted citizenship. Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh said they were sworn in by Immigration Minister Tony Burke in Brisbane. Friends and supporters from the local Iranian community attended the ceremony. The Refugee Council of Australia noted that citizenship usually requires four years on a valid visa. The women joined Brisbane Roar after Iran withdrew from the Women’s Asia Cup hosted by Australia.
NBA
Memphis forward Clarke died from effects of heroin, cocaine Los Angeles Authorities have determined Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died in May from the effects of heroin and cocaine. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner said the 29-year-old basketball player’s death was accidental. Clarke was found dead inside a home near Los Angeles on May 11. Drug paraphernalia was reportedly found at the residence. Clarke was under contract to be with the Grizzlies through the 2026-27 season.
Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Trading Rutschman could help Orioles, but move shows how badly team’s plans went awry The former first overall pick was dealt to a division rival By Noah Trister The Associated Press SEVEN YEARS after drafting Adley Rutschman with the top overall pick, Orioles president Mike Elias traded the All-Star catcher to division rival Boston. In the interim, Baltimore managed one division title and one wild card before falling under .500. So Elias was asked point blank why fans should believe he’s the man to guide the team to future success. “While the last couple of years have really felt like a step back, and have been a step back from where this team was in 2023 and 2024, we have so many good players in this organization,” he said. “We have so many things going for us in this organization in terms of the strength and the infrastructure, the business side of the operation, the ownership, the facilities. We now have a top farm system, and we have a great roster with a lot of really good players that are signed up for many years. And we have a lot of things going for us right now.” The trade may work out for the Orioles in the long run. They acquired three of Boston’s top five prospects. Fans generally understand the logic of dealing a player who might leave as a free agent. But what makes this trade harder to stomach is the year and a half of failure that led up to it. In 2023, the Orioles won 101 games. Rutschman and infielder Gunnar Henderson were franchise cornerstones, and there were several more top prospects on the way. The assumption was there would be a lot more winning. Instead, the Orioles are in danger of missing the playoffs for a second straight season. “The last couple seasons have not gone to plan. There have been shortcomings, and ultimately those are my responsibility,” Elias said. “But
CAROLYN KASTER / AP PHOTO
Baltimore Orioles pitcher Kyle Bradish, left, and catcher Adley Rutschman, right, talk during a game last month. this is a very hard game, we cannot succeed all the time, and we must keep going when things aren’t going our way.” Elias did not sound like a man whose job was in jeopardy. If Elias felt he needed to produce a playoff team this year, he could have kept Rutschman and even added help. There were reasons to trade him, though. Baltimore has catcher Samuel Basallo, who is signed long term and is seven years younger than Rutschman. This type of deal — using a surplus at a key position to acquire help elsewhere — is something the Orioles could perhaps have used more of a few years ago, when they had a wealth of hitting in the majors and minors but needed pitching. Once again, the Orioles have to sell their fans on minor league prospects. The last collection of young talent hasn’t totally delivered on its promise. Rutschman had a down year in 2025, and Henderson is having one this year. Jack-
“We have a lot of things going for us right now.” Mike Elias, Orioles president son Holliday, Colton Cowser and Coby Mayo have all had struggles at the plate. Pitcher Grayson Rodriguez couldn’t stay healthy and was ultimately traded for outfielder Taylor Ward. (Ward, a pending free agent, was also dealt away.) When Elias arrived in November 2018, a rebuild was already underway after the team lost 115 games that year. “We had a lot of work to do around the org. We did it, and for a period of time there — we won a hundred games in 2023 — we had a consensus farm system and a core that looked like it was in a tremendous spot, in a really historically strong spot,” Elias said. “I think to some degree I personally, looking back, got caught up in a narrative about a rebuild. Baseball’s very hum-
bling, and it doesn’t go linearly, and things shifted and changed, and we had a lot of bad luck on the injury front. We had a lot of injuries, and we had regression and things that changed course.” It’s possible Baltimore’s fortune will swing back in a positive direction. The injury luck could improve, and maybe someone like Holliday grows into a star. Even so, Elias will have to prove he’s as good at buying as he seems to be at selling. “We’re in a really good spot with the health of the org, the talent that’s in the org, the players, the system that we have,” Elias said. “We need to get better, we need to continue to adjust and evolve. Our competition is very, very stiff, but I like where we’re at. The way that we’ve gotten here has felt different because of the last couple of years and how we’ve tapered down the last couple years from where our record was in 2023 and 2024. But the future is strong, and I think it starts right now.”
At 35 and in 14th season, Jets’ Smith has Reich seeing QB in his prime The former Panthers coach is impressed by the Jets veteran By Dennis Waszak Jr. The Associated Press FLORHAM PARK, N.J.— Frank Reich had to think for a second while raving — again — about Geno Smith, pondering the New York Jets quarterback’s age. “I don’t know how old he is. Isn’t he past 35?,” the offensive coordinator asked last Friday before being told Smith is actually 35. “It feels like he’s 28. I’m telling you, it feels like physically, I see no ... like, he is in his prime, physically.” Not bad for a quarterback entering his 14th NFL season, a journey that began as a second-round draft pick of the Jets in 2013 and has included several ups and downs on the field along the way. “Like his arm, the way he moves, his feet in the pocket, he’s physically in his prime,” said Reich, in his first season running the Jets’ offense. “So he takes great care of himself, and that’s going to help this team.”
New York certainly hopes so. The Jets acquired Smith in the offseason from Las Vegas to add a veteran quarterback to an offense that struggled mightily during a 3-14 season. The Jets ranked last or near the bottom in several offensive categories as the likes of Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor and Brady Cook took turns calling the signals for then-coordinator Tanner Engstrand. Their 8 yards per completion was the lowest mark in the NFL, and that’s something that’s expected to improve significantly. Smith has always been able to stretch the field, especially during three straight seasons of at least 3,500 yards passing in Seattle from 2022-24. He threw for 3,025 last year in a down season with Las Vegas that included an NFL-leading 17 interceptions. Back with the Jets, Smith has had a mostly good training camp. And he has thoroughly impressed Reich, who said during minicamp that the quarterback has an “elite” football mind. Reich was back gushing about Smith last Friday. “Geno’s the leader,” Reich said. “He’s the leader of the of-
SETH WENIG / AP PHOTO
New York Jets’ offensive coordinator Frank Reich, left, works with running backs at the team’s training camp. fense, make no mistake about it, in every way, shape and form. And to me, what has become crystal clear in this early time in training camp, the attribute that sticks out to me is his laser focus. This man is laser-focused like people don’t understand. He comes to work, and he is locked in. “And I feel like the whole offense plays off of that. That’s a really big deal.” Reich has seen what leadership looks like from a quarterback. He was a longtime backup to Jim Kelly as a player and has coached Peyton Manning, Philip Rivers, Andrew Luck and Matt Ryan. The offensive coordinator also knows what good quarterback play looks like. And he sees all of that in Smith, granted, still in the protected, no-contact confines of training camp. “I remember when he was coming out (of college), I had a high grade on him,” Reich
said. “His throwing mechanics, if I’m just talking pure upper-body mechanics, they’re pure. There’s only a couple guys in the league that I would say are pure. Geno’s one of them.” Smith has also been drawing positive reviews from his teammates, who have praised his leadership since rejoining the Jets. “Geno is a legend to guys like me,” fifth-year tight end Jelani Woods said. “He’s been in the league for a long time. You look up to him, just the professionalism he has, it’s something that you look into, and he’s one of those guys that you go up to and talk to him at any time. He sits with you at the lunch table, he sits with anybody at the lunch table, and you just have a simple conversation with him and just talk about life outside of football. “And, you know, stuff like that goes a long way.”
B3
Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 13, 2026
the stream
AMY HARRIS / INVISION VIA AP PHOTO
Travis Barker performs with Clipse during the first weekend of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April in Indio, California.
‘Michael,’ Travis Barker, ‘Lanterns,’ ‘Madden NFL 27’ Singer Carly Simon releases “Comes In Waves” on Friday The Associated Press THE BLOCKBUSTER biopic “Michael” and a new documentary about Travis Barker 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, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: players can get back on the gridiron in “Madden NFL 27,” a new season of “Reacher” drops, and Carly Simon releases her first album in more than a decade. MOVIES TO STREAM The Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” is now streaming on Starz after a $1 billion run at the box office. Director Antoine Fuqua’s estate-approved dramatization of Jackson’s life stars his nephew Jaafar Jackson as the King of Pop. In my review, I wrote that “Michael” “slides a sequin glove over the pop star’s tarnished legacy, shrouding Michael Jackson’s complications with a conventional biopic that, if you cover your ears, sounds great.” The Netflix-Sandler connection continues Friday in “Don’t Say Good Luck,” a Happy Madison production starring Sandler’s daughter Sunny. In the coming-of-age comedy, she plays a high school theater student whose school play aspirations are complicated by her mother’s illness. Melanie Lynskey co-stars in the film. In “Normal” (Friday on HBO Max), Bob Odenkirk extends his action-hero resume beyond the two “Nobody” movies. In director Ben Wheatley’s film, Odenkirk plays a substitute sheriff who arrives in a wintery Min-
nesota town full of strange happenings, including the recent death of the previous sheriff. In his review, AP Film Writer Jake Coyle called it “a hyperviolent Midwestern Western that cleverly inverts some genre standards with a pleasingly loose hold on reality.” MUSIC TO STREAM Less than three minutes into “Travis Barker: Louder Than Fear,” a new documentary about the famed Blink-182 drummer, and audiences are launched into the aftermath of the devastating plane crash he survived in 2008. The film follows the esteemed musician from 2017 to 2026 but doubles as a celebration of his life before and after the life-altering crash, a central event in a career full of them. It’s a must-watch for fans, or simply those in need of a dynamic doc about resiliency. Stream it on Hulu on Thursday. Simon has been in headlines as of late; in July she shared that she has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and was recently treated for skin cancer. It makes her forthcoming album “Comes In Waves” — her first album of original songs since 2008, out Friday — even more of a miracle. “Working on the music gave shape to days that did not always have much shape. It gave me somewhere to go without having to leave the room,” she said in a statement. “It reminded me that illness can change your life without becoming the whole of your life.” Becky G is back with the bilingual “Baraja Bendita,” a new album and her first since leaving Kemosabe Records. Fans expecting more of 2024’s “Encuentros,” which explored rancheras and corridos, may be wise to return to that release. In this one, out Friday, she has assured in interviews, is still a celebration of her Mexican her-
MAGNOLIA PICTURES / LIONSGATE PICTURES / NETFLIX VIA AP
The films “Normal,” from left, “Michael” and “Don’t Say Good Luck” are all available to stream this week.
“‘Normal’ is a hyperviolent Midwestern Western that cleverly inverts some genre standards with a pleasingly loose hold on reality.” Jake Coyle, AP film writer
ANDY KROPA / INVISION VIA AP PHOTO
Bob Odenkirk attends the premiere of “Normal” at Metrograph in April in New York. itage. It is still Becky G, after all — but largely, it is a return to her rap-pop roots. SERIES TO STREAM The first three episodes of Season 4 of “Reacher” starring Alan Ritchson are now on Prime Video. The new episodes are based on the 13th book in the Jack Reacher series by Lee Child called “Gone Tomorrow.” After Reacher witnesses a woman take her own life on the subway, he becomes a target for information she passed onto him before her death. Season 3 of “Tires,” starring stand-up comics Steve Gerben and Shane Gillis, arrives on Netflix on Thursday. The show is a workplace come-
dy about the employees of an auto repair shop that leans into its blue-collar setting. Gerben and Gillis co-created the show with John McKeever, who directs all the episodes. The trio also writes most of the series as well. Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre star in the new HBO series “Lanterns,” which premieres Sunday on HBO Max. The show is based on DC Comics’ Green Lantern characters. Chandler and Pierre play Hal Jordan and John Stewart, members of the intergalactic law enforcement tasked with maintaining order throughout the universe and its galaxies. Their job takes them to Earth where they investigate a murder in Nebraska. “Lanterns” is
the second live-action series in the debut phase of the new DC Universe under co-chairs James Gunn and Peter Safran. Part sci-fi superhero story, it’s also inspired by mysteries like “True Detective.” VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY This long, hot summer can’t be over soon enough, so thank goodness “Madden NFL 27” is on its way. EA Sports has even put a cold-weather quarterback, the Chicago Bears’ Caleb Williams, on the cover. And the new edition has “dynamic weather,” meaning you could get slammed by a snowstorm midway through a game. EA is also promising new short-yardage mechanics and tighter defensive coverage. And wannabe franchise owners can look forward to the “Persona Engine,” which EA says “gives every NFL athlete a distinct personality.” Autumn arrives Thursday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Switch 2 and PC.
B4
Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 13, 2026
STATE & NATION
Watchdog for $46B tribal gambling industry can’t enforce law without chairperson The vacancy exposes the tribal gambling industry to emerging online prediction markets By Savannah Peters The Associated Press ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On opening day at the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma’s new Harrah’s-branded casino, the tribe’s chairman watched customers pack the gambling floor while a queue of cars spilled out of the parking lot. “We couldn’t let them in because we were so full,” Chairman Jacob Keyes said. “That’s a direct impact from the Harrah’s name.” But a vacancy in Washington is preventing the tribe’s partnership with the gambling giant from moving beyond branding. Plans for Harrah’s parent company to take over day-to-day management of the casino in Chandler, Oklahoma, stalled after it opened in April, because no one is at the helm of the federal commission that oversees tribal gambling. The last chairperson of the National Indian Gaming Commission stepped down from the role in January. President Donald Trump has not nominated anyone to fill the vacancy. Absent a chair, the commission is unable to perform some key responsibilities, like enforcing legal and safety violations, approving new tribal gambling laws and certifying management agreements between tribes and casino operators. Industry leaders say the agency’s inertia risks delaying business deals, weakening oversight and leaving tribes without a key advocate in Washington as they grapple with an emerging threat posed by online prediction markets. “At this crucial time, the (National Indian Gaming Commission) is operating with one arm tied behind its back,” said Jonodev Chaudhuri, a former NIGC chair from 2013 to 2019 and a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. “That’s a very precarious position for tribes and Indian gaming.” There’s a lot at stake for tribes that rely heavily on casino revenue to fund healthcare, housing, education and other vital services. Tribal gambling brought in a record $46 billion in 2025, nearly triple the annual casino revenue of gambling powerhouse Nevada. Commission’s core powers vested in chair With its Harrah’s contract stuck in limbo, the Iowa Tribe’s small government staff finds itself managing the 175,000-square-foot casino, a mammoth task it had intended to outsource. “It’s discouraging. We’re paying a fee and not getting the full value,” Keyes said.
BRITTANY BENDABOUT / AP PHOTO
A person plays a slot machine at Harrah’s Casino, owned by the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma, in Chandler, Oklahoma, on Aug. 5. Prediction markets emerge as new threat to tribal gaming
BRITTANY BENDABOUT / AP PHOTO
William Eary, a table games dealer at Harrah’s Casino, shuffles a deck of cards at the casino in Chandler, Oklahoma, on Aug. 5. The decision to outsource management was strategic: Harrah’s branding would bring in more business than existing staff could accommodate. Instead, staff has to balance management with other priorities like preparing tribal budgets and overseeing social programs, Keyes said. The three-member gaming commission was formed in 1988 to regulate casino-style gambling and promote economic development on tribal lands. Some 250 tribal governments across 29 states now operate 545 gambling facilities, the commission said. Under federal law, its enforcement powers are vested solely in the chairperson. Industry leaders say its inability to cite casinos for violating federal law or force the emergency closure of unsafe facilities is particularly troubling. In a typical year, the commis-
sion issues several citations to tribes for operating casinos on unauthorized lands, failing to submit required financial statements, misusing revenues and other violations. The commission’s last enforcement action was issued Jan. 12 — the same day acting chairperson Sharon Avery’s term expired. She remains on the commission. The commission declined an interview request and said in an emailed statement that tribal officials and its field staff provide “excellent regulation” amid the leadership gap. But Steven Light, an expert in tribal gambling law at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, said the lack of enforcement power could discourage investment in tribal gambling and slow business growth. “Markets function best when there’s stability and certainty around processes and rules,” Light said.
The commission vacancy comes as the popularity of online prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket explodes. Tribal leaders fear those platforms, which allow users to wager on the outcome of virtually any event, could violate their sovereignty and take a bite out of gambling revenue. “Every dollar generated by Indian gaming goes to fund healthcare for our people, education for our children, housing for our elders,” said David Bean, chairman of the Indian Gaming Association and a citizen of the Puyallup Tribe. At least eight tribes have sued prediction market platforms, alleging they accept bets from tribal lands and in states where tribes have exclusive gambling rights in violation of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which the gaming commission is tasked with enforcing. Prediction markets argue their users are engaging in futures trading, not gambling, and dispute claims that they are circumventing regulation. The commission chairperson typically serves as an advocate for the tribal gambling industry in Washington, according to former commissioners and staffers. Yet it’s been conspicuously silent while the federal government weighs how to regulate prediction markets, said Joe Valandra, the commission’s chief of staff from 2005 to 2007 and a citizen of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. James Siva, who leads the California Nations Indian Gaming Association and is vice
chairman of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, said the Trump administration’s support of and business ties to the prediction markets industry could explain why it hasn’t filled the vacancy. “These things are happening in conjunction with each other,” Siva said in April at a news conference with the Indian Gaming Association. “It is not a coincidence by any means.” Leadership gap spans two administrations The commission’s last Senate-confirmed chairperson termed out under former President Joe Biden without a successor in place. A White House spokesperson called the commission a “valued board” but did not say when a new nomination will be made. In April, Trump appointed Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland, a citizen of the Navajo Nation, to the commission. That’s raised questions about potential executive branch influence over an agency designed to be independent. “This crosses that threshold in an uncomfortable way,” said Shannon O’Loughlin, the commission’s chief of staff from 2015 to 2017 and a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Keyes said a crucial opportunity to develop his tribe’s economy hangs in the balance. He doesn’t see the commission vacancy as partisan play. “I don’t want to sound like sour grapes, but when have Native American issues ever been prioritized by the federal government?” he said.
[[Yä kknÊ
È··¸ä äȹºä äȹµä ȸµ½ä ä¾kk 855-910-AMMO
NCammunition.com
VOLUME 11 ISSUE 25 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | RANDOLPHRECORD.COM
SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 919-663-3232
Randolph record THE RANDOLPH COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
PJ WARD-BROWN / RANDOLPH RECORD
Veggie tales Vendor Ron Stanly weighs tomatoes on the scale at the Liberty Farmers’ Market on Saturday. Stanly said he’s been selling produce for more than 20 years.
WHAT’S HAPPENING Contiguous U.S. breaks record for hottest month ever, NOAA says The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says the contiguous United States set a record for its hottest month ever in July. Last month averaged 76.89 degrees Fahrenheit across the Lower 48 states, eclipsing the Dust Bowl’s July 1936 by an eighth of a degree. Although it was unusually cool in Alaska, hotter than normal conditions blanketed the Lower 48, with the most excessive heat in the Mountain West, Southwest, Northern Plains and Southeast. The biggest driver of the heat was at night. Nighttime lows, which are crucial for people and agriculture to recover from hot days, smashed the old record for hottest minimums by 0.7 degrees, the NOAA said.
U.S. existing homes fall 1.7% in July as record prices, high rates stifle would-be buyers Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes slowed again in July as record prices and the highest mortgage rates in more than a year prove to be an insurmountable hurdle for many prospective homebuyers. The National Association of Realtors said Tuesday that existing home sales fell 1.7% last month from June to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.06 million units. July sales, however, were up 0.7% over last year. Home prices continued to rise, hitting unprecedented levels for July. The U.S. median sales price increased 2% from a year earlier, to $434,100.
$2.00
Asheboro approves utilization of economic development funding The city will disburse $135,000 to three local organizations By Ryan Henkel Randolph Record ASHEBORO — The City of Asheboro has committed more than $100,000 of its economic development funding for local organizations. At the Asheboro City Council’s Aug. 6 meeting, the council held a public hearing for the requested disbursement of $185,000 in funding for three separate economic development opportunities. The requests included: • $75,000 to the Asheboro/ Randolph County Chamber of Commerce for small business assistance, resources and advocacy, business development activities, community events and promotion, and local youth
and adult leadership training. • $55,000 to Downtown Asheboro Inc. for revitalization efforts in Asheboro’s historic core as well as the PRESERVE Asheboro Grant Program to fund historic preservation consultant services. • $55,000 to the Randolph County Economic Development Corporation for new industrial and manufacturing company recruitment and site selection services, existing industry and manufacturing technical assistance, training assistance, installment financing assistance, state economic development incentives information, and assistance and international trade services and information. “Each of these organizations do a very good job of keeping us informed, keeping us included, and I’m pleased to say that they do a very good job,” city manager Donald Duncan said.
“Each of these organizations do a very good job of keeping us informed, keeping us included, and I’m pleased to say that they do a very good job.” Donald Duncan, city manager Following discussion, the council approved a $25,000 allotment for the Chamber of Commerce and the full funding for the other two organizations, totaling $135,000 in all. “I do know that the chamber is working on a strategic plan,” council member Kelly Heath said. “They have been a partner with the city for years, and so certainly we could evaluate
RCSS adds to preparations for upcoming school year The district will hold open houses next week in advance of classes beginning later in August
By Bob Sutton Randolph Record WITH CLASSES beginning this month in the Randolph County School System, more administrative appointments have been made. Here’s a look at some of those. • Jamie Davis moved from a role as a Providence Grove High School teacher to assistant principal at Northeastern Randolph Middle School. • Brian Hodgin, a former
principal at Southwestern Randolph High School, has become an assistant principal at Providence Grove High School. That’s considered a half-time position. • Former Wheatmore football and wrestling coach Philip Yarbrough has returned to RCSS. He’s the assistant principal at Wheatmore. Yarbrough departed as Wheatmore’s football coach following the 2023 season to pursue a school administration license after previously stepping away as the school’s wrestling coach. Yarbrough had left to take a teaching position at Central Davidson Middle School. • Kelly Ivey, curriculum instructional specialist at
Wheatmore High School, becomes a half-time assistant principal at the school. Coming and going Several schools had retiring administrators during or at the conclusion of the 2025-26 academic year. Lori Johnson, who joined RCSS in 1991, retired as principal at Grays Chapel Elementary School. Mark Dougherty is the new principal. Ginger Williams retired as principal at Trinity Elementary School. Mark Beasley is the new principal. Dennis Hamilton, who was named principal of the year in RCSS in September, retired during the school year. He had
at a later time once that plan is out about funding some additional things, but I’m just feeling that I need some more information going forward.” In addition, the council authorized the purchase of four tracts of land that were deemed desirable for the protection of Lake Reese’s water quality. The property totals around 32 acres within the Lake Reese watershed, and the city purchased it for the fair market value of the land, which was $390,000. “We have four reservoirs that the city maintains,” Duncan said. “In order to maintain adequate water quality, the city has bought shoreline around almost all of these lakes and up into the northern part of the Uwharrie River.” The council also approved a resolution requesting that See FUNDING, page A2
been principal at Providence Grove since July 1, 2023, transferring from a similar role at Randleman. Lee Miller became Providence Grove interim principal Feb. 1 and then was named permanent principal at Providence Grove effective June 1. He had been an assistant principal. Two other high schools had previously announced principal retirements and replacements. The retirements at the end of the academic year were Susan Chappell at Eastern Randolph and Eric Johnson at Wheatmore. Christopher Campbell (Eastern Randolph) and Matt Smith (Wheatmore) are new high school principals. Open houses scheduled Open houses for schools in the RCSS have been set for next week. Those will come for middle schools Aug. 18, high schools See RCSS, page A2
A2
Randolph Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
THURSDAY
8.13.26
Randolph Commissioners give fresh start to county library board Guide Nine county residents were appointed to positions with varying lengths for those terms
“Join the conversation”
North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) 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
Randolph Record staff ASHEBORO — There are nine new members of Randolph County’s Library Board of Trustees after last month’s approval from the county commissioners. That culminated a monthslong saga regarding the board, which had been disbanded. The new members will serve from one to three years. On one-year terms are Jennifer Cole of Asheboro, Richard
Aug. 3
Aug. 7
public officer.
• Robert Lee Hankins, 45, of Sophia, was arrested by RCSO for assault on a female and communicating threats.
• Jamil Akeem McLean, 35, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession of a firearm by a felon.
• Michael Andrew Swain, 38, of Ramseur, was arrested by RCSO for misdemeanor stalking and second-degree trespass.
• Jimmy Montez McMillian, 37, of Laurinburg, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession of a firearm by a felon, driving on a revoked license and impeding traffic by slow speed, and other charges.
• Gilbert Seth Hyatt, 31, of Randleman, was arrested by RCSO for second-degree trespass.
Aug. 8
• David Issac Pruitt, 52, of Bennett, was arrested by RCSO for violation of a domestic violence protective order, harassing phone call and cruelty to animals, and other charges. Aug. 4 • Mackel Emanuel Mitchell, 19, of Siler City, was arrested by RCSO for breaking and entering a motor vehicle, larceny of a motor vehicle and possession of a stolen motor vehicle, and other charges.
• Marquis Lawrence Evans, 19, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for misdemeanor larceny.
HI 92 LOW 73 PRECIP 10%
• Travis Lloyd Price, 42, of Randleman, was arrested by NCHP for driving while impaired, reckless driving and possession of an open container of alcohol in the passenger area, and other charges.
• Ethen Malekei Chapman, 20, of Trinity, was arrested by RCSO for felony larceny and possession of stolen goods or property. • Edgar Diaz-Urib, 30, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for trafficking in cocaine.
• Clella Stanton, 58, of Clarksville, was arrested by RCSO for seconddegree trespass and resisting a
THURSDAY AUG. 13
FRIDAY AUG. 14
• Angela Marie Lilly, 46, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for trafficking in fentanyl; possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver fentanyl; and possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver methamphetamine, and other charges.
• Robert Daniel Pugh, 44, of Seagrove, was arrested by RCSO for trafficking in opium or heroin; possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver methamphetamine; and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Aug. 6
HI 92 LOW 71 PRECIP 18%
• Justin Lee Kindley, 38, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver methamphetamine; possession of methamphetamine; and possession of drug paraphernalia, and other charges.
• Steven Anthony McCraw, 31, of Archdale, was arrested by RCSO for violation of a domestic violence protective order.
• Justin Prado, 24, of High Point, was arrested by Liberty PD for soliciting a child by computer and soliciting a crime against nature.
CALL OR TEXT 336-629-7588
Late in the spring, the topic of the library board was pulled from the agenda in an advance of a county commissioners meeting. That led to further scrutiny regarding the selection process for the board. The entire library board of trustees was dismissed late in 2025 amid an outcry about procedures that led to the book “Call Me Max,” which is about transgender issues, being available in children’s sections. Darrell Frye, chairman of the board of commissioners, was named the commissioners’ liaison to the library board.
CRIME LOG
Aug. 5
WEEKLY FORECAST SPONSORED BY
Callahan of Archdale and Michael Johnston of Franklinville. Two-year terms were extended to Cindy Garrett of Liberty, Cynthia Rogers of Seagrove and Mary “Mimi” Cooper of Ramseur. Appointed to three-year terms were Donna Brown of Asheboro, Alvin Battle of Archdale and Steven Watson of Randleman. An overview of qualifications regarding the make-up of the library board calls for geographic representation from across the county. The county commissioners didn’t provide any other factors in approving the newcomers to the board.
SUNDAY AUG. 16 HI 91 LOW 73 PRECIP 24%
TUESDAY AUG. 18 HI 90 LOW 70 PRECIP 43%
WEDNESDAY AUG. 19 HI 89 LOW 70 PRECIP 23%
Rock’n the Park: September (Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute) 6:30 p.m. Downtown Asheboro Inc. and the city continue the free concert series with September, a tribute band honoring Earth, Wind & Fire. Local opening act Southern Chill performs first, with September taking the stage at 8 p.m. Food trucks will be on site. Bicentennial Park 135 Sunset Ave. Asheboro
Aug. 15 Caraway Speedway: Road to the Crown
• Jacob Howard Markulik, 30, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for carrying a concealed weapon, first-degree trespass and resisting a public officer.
The racetrack joined the NASCAR circuit in 1972 and hosts a weekly series. Tickets can be purchased at the gate. Children 11 and under are admitted free.
• Tyler Boyd Poe, 20, of Siler City, was arrested by Asheboro PD for first-degree trespass and resisting a public officer. • Edgar Sevillano Fletes, 35, of Lexington, was arrested by NCHP for driving while impaired, driving without an operator’s license and possession of an open container of alcohol in the passenger area, and other charges. Aug. 9 • Daniel Christian Garner, 42, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for second-degree trespass. • Jose Alberto Moronta-Martinez, 21, of Archdale, was arrested by Archdale PD for assault on a female. • Ashley Bean Parrish, 58, of Randleman, was arrested by Archdale PD for second-degree trespass and resisting a public officer.
8-11 p.m.
2518 Race Track Road Sophia
Aug. 21 Friday Night Bluegrass: Lee Ward & the Southern Express 7 p.m. The bluegrass act performs as part of the Sunset Theatre’s Friday Night Bluegrass series, featuring Lee Ward on guitar and vocals alongside mandolin, banjo and bass. Doors open at 6 p.m. Sunset Theatre 234 Sunset Ave. Asheboro
Aug. 22 Rescue Run 5K RCSS from page A1 Aug. 19, and elementary schools Aug. 20. “I just encourage all parents to attend open house events,” RCSS superintendent
Stephen Gainey said, pointing out it’s an opportunity to meet staff members at those schools. Randolph Early College began classes Aug. 6. The first day of classes for
the other RCSS schools is Aug. 24. That’s the same date for the first day of classes in Asheboro City Schools. Meanwhile, classes began Monday at Uwharrie Charter Academy.
FUNDING from page B1 the North Carolina Department of Transportation designate Westmont Drive as a light-traffic road, which would forbid heavy truck traffic on it. “Westmont Drive is a residential street that was not designed to accommodate frequent heavy truck traffic,” assistant city manager Trevor
Nuttall said. “The city has received concerns, particularly recently, from residents regarding roadway wear, safety, noise and general incompatibility of truck traffic traveling through that neighborhood.” Finally, the council approved a five-year, approximately $530,000 contract with Opengov for use of Vertosoft Software for the develop-
ment of an asset management program to be utilized for all the city’s water and wastewater assets. “Any viable utility is going to have an asset management program, and it’s something we’ve needed for a long time,” water resources director Michael Rhoney said. The Asheboro City Council will next meet Sept. 10.
MONDAY AUG. 17 HI 94 LOW 72 PRECIP 42%
Aug. 14
• Joshua Harris Smith, 32, of Randleman, was arrested by Randleman PD for resisting a public officer.
SATURDAY AUG. 15 HI 90 LOW 70 PRECIP 31%
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Randolph County:
How are you protecting all of your deliveries? Look no further than Asheboro Fire & Security's
First Alert Video Doorbell! Asheboro Fire & Security, Inc.
Bicentennial Park 135 Sunset Ave. Asheboro
The Statler Experience 7 p.m. A tribute to the Statler Brothers performs an evening of classic country gospel and harmony. Tickets available through Ovation Tix. The Liberty Showcase 101 S. Fayetteville St. Liberty
Aug. 24-26 Randolph County Fair Annual Randolph County Fair features agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, entertainment and food vendors. Randolph County Fairgrounds Asheboro
159 North Park Street, Asheboro, NC 27203
Contact: s DVKHERURÞUHDQGVHFXULW\ FRP Follow us on Facebook • Leave us a review at: KWWSV J SDJH DVKHERURÞUH UHYLHZ"JP
The Invictus Project hosts its fourth annual Rescue Run 5K and community walk , raising funds and awareness in the fight against child exploitation and trafficking. Volunteer check-in begins at 8 a.m.
Your trusted partner in security since 1931
Randolph Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
A3
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH
The hard lesson for AIPAC
The message to other candidates is clear: AIPAC money comes with a price.
THERE ARE PLENTY of explanations for what happened in the Michigan Senate Democratic primary, where Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive, was declared the victor over Rep. Haley Stevens, a moderate, by a razor-thin margin of 1%. For starters, he was the outsider, a former public health official talking about the fundamental economic issues, while she was Sen. Chuck Schumer’s second choice (after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer) for the seat. He was, according to observers, the better communicator, the better orator, connecting on issues of affordability while she was expounding on her love for Michigan. He worked harder. He started campaigning well over a year ago and did some 500 public events against a candidate who stayed mostly out of the public eye and dodged tough questions. And the polls were wrong, as usual. The polls were projecting a double-digit El-Sayed victory. That didn’t happen. It turned into a cliffhanger, and El-Sayed only won by a razor-thin margin. So in that sense, as is always true of very close races, anything could have made the difference. But there are certain facts coming out of Michigan that cannot be denied. Stevens was supported by some $60 million in outside money, including more than $30 million from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. That’s AIPAC, for short, the pro-Israel lobby that used to wield enormous clout in Washington and in national politics. Her extraordinary support from AIPAC became an issue in the campaign, as did her opponent’s stance on Israel. El-Sayed is the sort of candidate AIPAC exists to defeat. He believes that Israel committed genocide in Gaza. He has pledged to cut U.S. military aid to Israel. And, according to The New
York Times, he has said he does not believe Israel should exist as an explicitly Jewish state. Throughout the campaign, El-Sayed attacked Stevens for her pro-Israel position and said he hoped to go to Washington to influence policy on Israel, especially among the party’s 2028 hopefuls. AIPAC spent more money, according to the Times, trying to beat El-Sayed than any outside group has in a primary this year. They put more than $30 million on the scale and became a much-debated issue in the campaign for doing so. The message to other candidates is clear: AIPAC money comes with a price. Did it hurt Stevens more than it helped her? While apologists for AIPAC may spin that even with prevailing winds against them, they almost pulled it off, the fact of the matter is that they didn’t pull it off. They lost. A few years ago, there would have been no place in the Democratic Party for a candidate like El-Sayed. His views on Palestine would have been unacceptable. He would not have been given a speaking role at a convention. As I write this, the party is unifying behind him to give him a speaking and voting role in the U.S. Senate. As the polls have measured, accurately, public opinion on Israel has shifted dramatically, and negatively. Some of us continue, albeit with difficulty, to draw a line between our support for Israel and our opposition to its current government, but most people don’t. They don’t view Israel through the Holocaust-tinged glasses of my generation. We know this. AIPAC has to know this. The lesson of Michigan cannot be that they just needed a little more money. The message is not working. Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
COLUMN | LARRY ELDER
AI cannot give writers something to say
Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed.
AFTER NEARLY 35 YEARS as a talk show host, I’ve had many young broadcasters ask me, “What’s the secret?” My answer always surprises them because it’s so short. “Have something to say.” Most expect advice about voice, pacing, interview techniques, social media or how to handle callers. Those things matter. But they’re secondary. If you don’t have an interesting idea, no amount of polish will keep an audience listening. The audience may admire your delivery for a while, but eventually it wants substance. It wants a reason to come back tomorrow. The same principle applies to writing. Someone once asked me, “What makes a good writer?” My answer was the same: “Having something to say.” Good grammar helps. A large vocabulary helps. A clever turn of phrase helps. But readers don’t return because of sentence structure. They return because the writer consistently offers an insight, an argument or an observation they had not considered before. The style attracts attention. The ideas keep it. That’s one reason the rise of artificial intelligence doesn’t worry me nearly as much as it worries some people. AI can make a sentence cleaner. It can tighten a paragraph. It can suggest a better headline, organize research and identify weaknesses in an argument. It can save a substantial amount of time in tracking down sources. Those are remarkable tools. But recently, a judge blasted an attorney whose legal brief cited cases that were either nonexistent or did not support the proposition for which they were cited. Blind and lazy reliance on AI was the likely culprit. But AI cannot live your life for you. It cannot accumulate your experiences, your failures, your successes, your conversations or your observations. Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed. AI can help you communicate an idea more effectively, but it cannot give you a lifetime from which original ideas are born. The same lesson appears in coaching. NFL coach Bum Phillips once paid Hall of Fame coach Don Shula perhaps the greatest compliment one coach has ever paid another: “He can take his’n and beat your’n. And your’n and beat his’n.” In other words, if Shula had the better team, he would beat you. But if you had the
better team, he might beat you anyway. Phillips was saying that great coaches first maximize their advantages. Then, every so often, they overcome their disadvantages. When I practiced law, I came to a similar conclusion about trial lawyers. A good trial lawyer wins all the cases he should — and a few he shouldn’t. He doesn’t lose the cases he should win through poor preparation or weak advocacy. Then, once in a while, through judgment, preparation and persuasion, he wins a case the facts and the law suggest he would lose. The exceptional performer first masters the fundamentals. Only then can he elevate his craft. In broadcasting, they ask about microphones instead of ideas. In writing, they ask about style instead of substance. In coaching, they ask about strategy instead of talent. In law, they ask about courtroom theatrics instead of judgment. The essentials come first. Everything else is an enhancement. Technology can improve prose, summarize documents and organize research in seconds. Those advances are valuable, even remarkable, but none answers the question that matters most: What do you actually think? If you have nothing worth saying, technology won’t rescue you. If you do have something worth saying, technology becomes a force multiplier, enabling you to communicate more clearly and more efficiently. Despite all the technological changes during my career — from computers and the internet to radio and podcasts and now to artificial intelligence — the secret remains the same. It applies to writing a column, hosting a radio show, giving a speech or leading a meeting. People still hunger for fresh ideas, honest observations and genuine insight. They still appreciate someone who can make sense of confusing events or articulate what others struggle to say. After all these years behind a microphone, through changing technologies and changing media, my answer remains the same. Every profession has an indispensable first principle. Miss it, and no amount of technique will save you. Have something to say. Larry Elder is an author and nationally syndicated radio talk show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com.)
A4
Randolph Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
As AI grips world, thrill of collecting vintage computers grows
Gates to incorporate the technologies in their early products. Dersch’s exhibit featured a fully functioning Xerox Alto workstation with its boxy vertical monitor, chunky keyboard and mouse, as well as pizza-sized spinning disks that store tiny amounts of data by modern standards. “It’s fun to share what I’ve done with people. It’s fun to share in what other people have done,” Dersch said. “Also, there’s a consignment area where I can buy more junk to take home with me, so that’s always fun.” Klein, a Silicon Valley software engineering manager, was a passionate collector until his hobby overwhelmed his home and family life. He had as many as 150 computer systems — complete with accessories, documents and packaging — crammed into his closets and garage. He said his beloved collection had become an “albatross,” and he worried about burdening his family. So he started selling and giving away his machines until he only had a few favorites left at home.
Collectors worldwide are preserving older hardware that pioneered the digital age By Terry Chea The Associated Press MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — Software engineer Josh Dersch loves old computers. He spends countless hours tinkering in his garage, trying to coax decades-old machines back to life. He estimates he owns more than 200 vintage computers and devices in his Seattle home. “It’s always been fascinating to me to see the origins of things,” Dersch said. “It’s a fun challenge to debug and repair. You can understand the entire system from top to bottom.” Dersch is part of a growing community of vintage computer collectors who are preserving the classic machines that helped launch the digital revolution. While Silicon Valley has since moved on to shaping the future of artificial intelligence, these hardware enthusiasts are intent on saving the Atari, Commodore and IBM machines that are ancestors to today’s laptops, wearable devices and smart phones. Where others see junk, people like Dersch see artifacts of computer history that are worthy of attention and respect. They delight in hearing the beeps and chimes of their childhood and firing up a low-def game of “Pong” or “Space Invaders.” “The enthusiasm for the history of computers and all the stuff around it is growing,” said Erik Klein, president of the Vintage Computer Federation, which organizes an annual festival at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View in the heart of Silicon Valley. Vintage computer festivals bring collectors together This year, more than 3,500 people attended the two-day Vintage Computer Festival in early August that celebrat-
Software engineer Josh Dersch, standing, shows a 1970s Xerox Alto computer he restored at the Vintage Computer Festival in Mountain View, California, on Sunday. — the company’s first product — can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars. Collectors exhibited the computer systems that they have painstakingly restored to their original working condition, allowing attendees to play with the computers built long before the internet, social media and AI transformed the world. Restoring “grandfather of the modern computer”
Arion Paylo repairs a circuit board at the Vintage Computer Festival on Sunday. ed the 50th anniversary of Apple, founded in 1976 in nearby Cupertino, California. It featured a panel with co-founders Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne reminiscing about the company’s early days as a scrappy startup led by the late Steve Jobs.
More than a dozen such gatherings have since sprung up in cities across North America, South America and Europe. Growing interest is reflected in more demand for vintage computers in online marketplaces, Klein said. Rare, iconic computers like the Apple-1
Dersch drove down from Seattle to showcase the pride of his collection: the Xerox Alto. He spent years restoring what’s considered “the grandfather of the modern computer,” which was developed at the pioneering Xerox Palo Alto Research Center in the 1970s. The Alto was one of the earliest computers to move beyond text on screen and use the mouse and graphical user interface — such as windows, icons and cursors — that became the industry standard. The model famously inspired Jobs and Bill
Similar events for collectors spread around world Now Klein channels his passion for vintage computers into organizing festivals, repair workshops, swap meets and other events as president of the Vintage Computer Federation. “So it’s really about evangelizing that history and evangelizing this hobby of maintaining, collecting and enjoying this vintage technology,” Klein said. Sellam Ismail is thrilled to see the collector community develop and mature since he organized the first festival in 1997, drawing about 150 hobbyists to a venue east of San Francisco. He ran the events for a decade. He later co-founded the Vintage Computer Federation, which runs festivals in the U.S. and Canada. He’s helped other groups launch similar festivals in Argentina, Germany and Switzerland. “The community grew up. More and more people started getting old computers, started collecting them,” said Ismail, who once had a massive collection he stored in a warehouse. “Next year is the 30th anniversary. And I expect this to continue and grow even bigger.” Left, a 1981 Commodore SP9000 “Super PET” computer and floppy disk drives are displayed. Right, Attendees play on Apple Macintosh computers from the 1980s.
PHOTOS BY TERRY CHEA / AP PHOTO
Blazer 9mm Magpul Ever wish you had a 115gr, FMJ Brass Cased
PMAGs
$299/case 10 for $90 Žƌ Ψϭϲͬ Ždž
local store which has The Best Prices on Cases of Ammo? The best selection of factory standard capacity magazines? An AWESOME selection of Modern Sporting Weapons from Leading Manufactures Like, Sig, FN, S&W, etc? Flamethrowers & Gatlin Guns? All at better than on-line prices?
You Do! Del-Ton M4 tŝƚŚ &Ƶůů >ĞŶŐƚŚ ZĂŝů͊
9796 Aberdeen Rd, Aberdeen
KŶ Zƚ Ϯϭϭ ũƵƐƚ ŝŶƐŝĚĞ ,ŽŬĞ ŽƵŶƚLJ͘ tŝƚŚ YƵĂŶƚŝĐŽ dĂĐƚŝĐĂů
Store Hours: dƵĞ Ͳ &ƌŝ͗ ϭϭĂŵ ʹ ϰƉŵ 910.637.0500 www.ProvenOutfitters.com
$499
DĂĚĞ ŝŶ E ͊
Polish Radom AK-47
$649
Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact
$449
tŝƚŚ >ŝŐŚƚ͊
ϯϴ͟ dĂĐƚŝĐĂů ZŝĨůĞ ĂƐĞ͗ ΨϮϬ
Randolph Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
A5
obituaries
Tula Brady Schenck
Debra Lynn Wozny
Michael Keith Hilton
Alan Anderson Bunting
May 3, 1926 – Aug. 2, 2026
Sept. 15, 1960 – Aug. 5, 2026
Nov. 21, 1955 – Aug. 3, 2026
March 12, 1971 – Aug. 6, 2026
Tula Brady Schenck went home peacefully to be with our Lord on Sunday, August 2, 2026. She lived a long and wonderful life grounded in faith, love, service and devotion to her family. Visitation will be Friday, August 7, from 4-8 p.m. Graveside service will be Saturday, August 8, at 2:00 PM at Lakeview Memorial Park, 3600 North O’Henry Blvd., Greensboro, NC, with Rev. Darrell Rabon officiating. Family will receive friends following the service. Tula was born in Guilford County on May 3, 1926, to the late Rev. C. C. McMasters (Charm) and Mary Alice McMasters (Big Mama). She spent many years in Christian ministry. She faithfully served by her husband’s side as he pastored eight churches within the North Carolina East District of the Wesleyan Church. She served as District CYC Director (Christian Youth Crusaders) for many years and was District Director of Children’s Camp for 30 plus years (now Victory Mountain Wesleyan Camp in Sophia, NC. Tula loved people and had a heartbeat for children. She was musically talented, playing the piano; organ and autoharp and singing praises to the Lord. She served the Lord with joy and invested herself in others and in Kingdom work. 100 years ....... What an accomplishment! Her family looks back at all the wonderful parts of her journey through life with pride and joy. GOD had a plan for Tula. She served enthusiastically and with purpose. HALLELUJAH WHAT A SAVIOR! She was preceded in death by her parents; husband Rev. William S. Brady (1985); husband Rev. Eugene Schenck (2017); sons Farrell Brady and Thomas Schenck; infant daughter; daughter-in-law Harriet Brady and great-granddaughter April Dowell. Tula is survived by sons Billy Brady; Darrell Brady (Pat); Richard Schenck (Carol); daughter-in-law Paula Brady; sisters Mary Ruth Mills (Bill) and Faye Redding; nine grandchildren; ten greatgrandchildren; and two greatgreat-grandchildren; adopted daughter Martha Haskins and numerous nieces and nephews. The family is especially grateful for the exceptional care and support provided by the Staff of Hospice of Randolph County and the Staff of Cross Road Retirement Community. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial donation to Victory Mountain Wesleyan Camp; 3594 Youth Camp Road, Sophia, NC 27350 or Hospice of Randolph County, 416 Vision Drive, Asheboro, NC 27203.
Debra Lynn Wozny passed away on August 5, 2026, at the age of 65. Born on September 15, 1960, in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, Debra lived a life marked by love, resilience, and devotion to her family. She was known for her wonderful sense of humor and her ability to bring laughter to those around her. Through life’s challenges, Debra faced each day with courage and determination. Debra was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Mark Wozny. She is survived by her daughters, Stormie Elsworth and her husband Matt Elsworth, and Autumn Wozny and her wife Rae, and their son Kaydin. She was a proud and loving grandmother to her grandsons, Bradley and Jake, who brought immense joy and pride to her life. Debra is also survived by her sister, Jennifer Lee, and her brother, Eric Cromwell, as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who will cherish her memory. Debra’s strength, kindness, and wit will be deeply missed, but the memories she created and the love she shared will remain in the hearts of her family and friends forever. In accordance with Debra’s wishes, no funeral service will be held. Her family asks that those who knew and loved her take a moment to remember the laughter, strength, and special moments they shared with her.
Michael Keith Hilton, age 70, of Asheboro, North Carolina, passed away at his home on August 3, 2026. Michael was born on November 21, 1955, in High Point, North Carolina, to the late Lester Hilton and Lorena Lambeth Hilton. Michael attended Eastern Randolph High School and grew up in the Hilton Court community of High Point. He had a lifelong passion for golf and enjoyed spending time on the course whenever he could. He also had a deep appreciation for music. Michael proudly served his country in the United States Army for 22 years, retiring with the rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC/E-7). During his military career, he served in both the Gulf War and Operation Desert Storm. In addition to his parents, Michael was preceded in death by his grandmother, Violet Lambeth, affectionately known as “Nanny.” He is survived by his son, Jeremy Hilton; Jeremy’s daughters, Zoe Hilton and Katelyn Hilton; his brothers, David Hilton (Judy), Scott Hilton (Connie), Sean Hilton, and Mark Hilton (Wayne); his sister, Linda Jessup; several nieces and nephews; his best friend, Mike Bray; and his faithful canine companion, Daisy. The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Sammy Hunt for the kindness, support, and assistance shown during this difficult time. The family will receive friends on Sunday, August 9, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, at 2:00 pm at Bethany Community Methodist Church with Rev. Jenna Grogan officiating.
Alan Anderson Bunting passed peacefully on August 6, 2026, at the age of 55. He was born in Troy, NC, on March 12, 1971. He is survived by his father, Duane Ray Bunting; mother, Beth Browne Coleman; stepfather, Steve Coleman; brother, Wes Calvin Bunting; sister-in-law, Heather Landis Bunting; and his beloved nieces, Landis Elizabeth and Blythe Dorsett. He is also survived by his stepbrother Michael Coleman. Alan was preceded in death by his grandparents William Ray Bunting (Lois Dorsett) and Ernest Talmadge Browne (Marguriette Stutts). Alan was blessed with an aunt, Lauren Bunting Hardin (Chris and stepson Matt), seven years his senior, who spoiled him his entire life. In his early years, they were more siblings than aunt and nephew. He cherished close relationships with two Bunting uncles who preceded him, Clark Dorsett (Randi McWhirter) and Gregg Jeffrey. He treasured memories with his Bunting cousins Clark II (Daniella Nievinski) and Jennifer (John Hughes). He was very proud of his younger cousins, Jacob and Joshua, and their accomplishments. Alan was equally blessed by his Browne family. He cherished his uncle, Charles Talmadge Browne, and his aunt, Della Ernestine Browne Newsom. He shared his love of Ocracoke Island with his cousins Adam Deane Browne (Kelly Harding) and William Taylor Browne (Kady McKenzie), and he had a soft spot for his cousin Emily “Betsy” Browne Morris (Daniel Morris). To all three he was an older cousin worth looking up to, quick with a tease, and quicker still to take pride in whatever they went on to achieve. Alan was also blessed by his Newsom cousins Mark Falon Newsom (Tonya), Elisa Jo “E J” Martin, (Wade), Della Newsom Davis, Eric Alan Newsom (Susan Gibson), Alex Ernest Newsom (Marticia “Tish”), Julia Newsom Broseman (Michael). The
Darrell Lee Hicks July 5, 1943 – Aug. 3, 2026 Darrell Lee Hicks, 83, of Franklinville, passed away on Monday, August 3, 2026, at his home. No services are scheduled at this time. Born on July 5, 1943, in Randolph County, North Carolina, Darrell was the son of the late Calvin Sylvester Hicks and Callie Mae Kearn Hicks. A hardworking and devoted man, Darrell found his greatest joys in the simple pleasures of life. He loved spending time fishing, making trips to the mountains, and relaxing in his rocking chair on the porch while watching the deer. Above all, Darrell treasured his family, especially his grandchildren. He also shared a special bond with his faithful dog, Sam. In addition to his parents, Darrell was preceded in death by his wife, Melanie Hicks; brother, Richard Hicks; and grandson, Kevin Hicks. Surviving are his sons, Calvin Hicks, Anthony Hicks (Marie), Richard Hicks; sister, Faye Joyner (Kenneth); 10 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Celebrate the lifeat Randolph Record of your loved ones. Submitobits@ obituaries and randolphrecord.com death notices to be published in Randolph Record at obits@ randolphrecord.com
Marion Hoyle Beane Dec 4, 1933 – Aug. 8, 2026 Marion Hoyle Beane, age 92, of Asheboro, North Carolina, passed away on August 8, 2026, at Clapp’s Convalescent Nursing Home in Asheboro. Marion was born on December 4, 1933, in Randolph County to the late Calvin Harrison Beane and Iris Duetta Yow Beane. Marion shared 47 wonderful years with the love of his life, Beulah. Together, they cherished simple pleasures, especially taking trips to the mountains to camp or heading out to enjoy a plate of Lexington barbecue. A devoted family man, Marion took immense pride in his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren. He was their greatest supporter, and he made it a point to never miss an event they were involved in. Known for his generous spirit, Marion was the kind of man who would give the shirt off his back to a stranger. He was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Around the house, he was a natural tinkerer who enjoyed working on projects, cultivating his garden, and
Newsom cousins considered Alan and Wes as brothers. Alan loved playing board games together, playing ball of any kind, riding bikes and getting into mischief as kids will do. He always looked forward to his visits with them, as they were always full of laughter and love. Alan was gifted athletically, lettering in cross country, wrestling, and baseball at Asheboro High School, where he graduated in 1989. He continued his education at UNC Wilmington, graduating with a degree in Criminal Justice in 1993. He remained close to his love of baseball by umpiring and mentoring youth leagues throughout his college years. Alan most enjoyed his participation and camaraderie with his UNCW rugby teammates. Alan’s professional career spanned 29 years at the NC Department of Adult Correction, where he served as a Sergeant. Upon retirement, he continued to serve as a security officer at Randolph Hospital under the supervision of Tommy Key. We learned that the ICU nurses, “Alan’s Angels,” relished his nightly visits. Special thanks to his “A Team” brethren: Aaron and Andrew. Alan treasured his yearly camping trips to Ocracoke Island with his father, friends and family. He was an avid and successful fisherman during annual family vacations to the Outer Banks and Holden Beach. Alan enjoyed throwing darts, playing pool, and dominating “squelch” with EJ & Wade at countless family gatherings and beach trips. Alan projected a tough exterior, but his interior presented a heart of gold to those closest to him. He gave the shirt off his back to those in need, though his own might be tattered. The family would like to recognize Mark Harris for his loyal friendship, assistance and support. We would be remiss without acknowledging the care Alan received from the ICU and Palliative Care teams at Moses Cone Hospital. We were also comforted by the amazing staff at Randolph Hospice House. The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 15, 2026 from 12:00 PM to 1:45 PM at First United Methodist Church, 224 N. Fayetteville St., Asheboro, NC 27203. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 2:00 PM. A private burial will take place later. Memorials may be made in Alan’s honor to Asheboro High School Athletic Booster Club, 1221 South Park St., Asheboro, NC 27203, Hospice of Randolph, 416 Vision Drive, Asheboro, NC 27203, or to the organization of the donor’s choice.
adding to his unique collections. When he wasn’t busy fixing something, he found joy in the outdoors, spending countless hours hunting and camping or attending church at Mt Lebanon Baptist Church in Asheboro In addition to his parents, Marion was preceded in death by his son, Donald Ray Beane; and his daughters, Jeannie Beane Greene and Cynthia Doreen Cranford. His siblings: Leverne Brown, Clifton Beane, Forrest Beane, Dixie Raby, James Beane, Glenn Beane, and Cloyce Lane Goins. He is survived by his wife, Beulah Kate Nance Cranford Beane; his daughters, Gloria Small and her husband, Tony, and Rhonda Rene’ Cranford; and his sons, Clayton Jay Cranford and Brian Keith Cranford. He also leaves behind his grandchildren, Kelly Ray Beane, Jeremy Lee Beane and his wife, Tonya, Melissa Gail Johnson and her husband, Keith, Kerry Ann Boles and her husband, Billy, George Douglas Vuncannon, Donnie Chase Vuncannon, Katie King Jones and her husband, Allen, and Terence Glenn King and his wife, Andrea; his greatgrandchildren, Hayleigh Marie Jones, Brayden Chanz Jones, Landon Maddox Jones, Evy Paige Jones, Audrey Shea King, Tanner Glenn King, Trey Nathaniel King, Bethany Paige Beane, and Lydia Kate Beane; as well as numerous other beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and greatgreat-grandchildren. The family will receive friends on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 1:00 pm. A funeral service will follow at the Glenn “Mac” Pugh Chapel. Burial will follow at Union Grove Christian Church.
A6
Randolph Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
STATE & NATION 2 appointed to state Lottery Commission Bryan Starnes was installed as chair, and Jason Poole was named a member of the board By Jessica Taylor For Randolph Record RALEIGH — Two appointments were made to the North Carolina Lottery Commission last week. Bryan Starnes was appointed as chair of the Lottery Commission by state Treasurer Brad Briner. Starnes will begin his five-year term Sept. 1 and will replace Ripley Rand, who has served as chair since December 2022. “The Lottery Commission oversees an enterprise that generates billions of dollars each year for the people of North Carolina, and that responsibility demands exceptional leadership,” said Briner in the press release. “Bryan Starnes has spent his career earning the trust of businesses, employees and stakeholders by demonstrating financial expertise, strong judgment and unwavering integrity. “He is exactly the kind of qualified leader North Carolinians deserve in this important role, and I am confident he will help
COURTESY TRP SUMNER
COURTESY N.C. STATE TREASURER
Jason Poole
Bryan Starnes
ensure the Lottery Commission operates with accountability, transparency and sound stewardship,” said Briner. Starnes has worked for nearly four decades in accounting, finance and executive leadership as a certified public accountant. He began his career at Deloitte & Touche before becoming a controller for a North Carolina furniture manufacturer. In 1992, he worked as a partner at Martin Starnes & Associates, where he grew the firm into a respected accounting practice until 2011. In 2012, Starnes worked his way up from asset manager to chief accounting officer at Meridian Senior Living. Since 2013, he has worked as the chief finan-
cial officer at ALG Senior, a senior housing management and consulting company. Starnes has overseen billions of dollars in assets and transactions and built a reputation for accountability and strong financial oversight. As chief financial officer at ALG Senior, Starnes handled accounting, finance, risk management, human resources and policy advocacy for organizations managing more than 100 senior living communities across the nation. Starnes has been married to his wife, Sandy, for 40 years, and has three children and nine grandchildren. Starnes’ appointment is the first time the state treasurer has been authorized to appoint
Trump officials propose new scrutiny of food additives, ingredients
The FDA will take comments on the proposal for 120 days.
The rule would close a decades-old loophole allowing companies to self-approve food additives By Matthew Perrone The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. health officials on Monday proposed a rule change that would require food manufacturers to notify regulators before introducing new ingredients or additives into processed or packaged foods. The proposal would change a decades-old policy that advocates have called a regulatory loophole, blaming it for allowing thousands of unvetted ingredients into the U.S. food supply. Under the proposed rule from the Food and Drug Administration, companies would have to document and submit their safety findings for new ingredients, giving regulators the opportunity to investigate if they see a potential safety risk. Currently, companies can decide for themselves if an ingre-
JACQUELYN MARTIN / AP PHOTO
Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. listens during a Cabinet meeting at the White House on May 27.
dient or additive is “generally recognized as safe,” and there is no requirement for companies to notify or submit evidence to the FDA, although some do. “Shifting to a mandatory notification system closes a decades-old information gap, giving the FDA the comprehensive visibility needed to enhance postmarket safety,” acting FDA Commissioner Kyle Diamantas told reporters Monday.
Government scrutiny of ultraprocessed food continues, but with few details In a separate move, the FDA said it completed work on the federal government’s first definition of ultraprocessed food but did not release any details or the proposed language. The agency said it has submitted the definition to the White House for further review. Health advocates consider an official definition of ultraprocessed food a key step toward bringing greater scrutiny to packaged foods that are blamed for multiple chronic health problems afflicting Americans. A government-backed definition could pave the way for more federal research and, eventually, possible labeling or other restrictions on processed foods. Neither of Monday’s announcements are likely to immediately impact American diets, which are packed with fats, sodium and sugar and are blamed for a host of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease. But both initiatives are considered top priorities for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who entered government vowing to crack down on artificial colors, additives and other ingredients. Ultraprocessed foods are made using industrial processing and additives, colors, preservatives or other ingredients not found in home kitchens. The foods include sugary cere-
the chair of the Lottery Commission. The change was made by the North Carolina General Assembly in the yearly state budget. Alongside Starnes, Robert “Jason” Poole was appointed by State Auditor Dave Boliek to serve on the Lottery Commission. His appointment comes due to a recent state law allowing the state auditor to appoint one of the nine members of the commission. “Jason Poole is a respected financial professional with a strong record of leadership and service to North Carolina,” said Boliek in the press release. “His expertise in accounting, governance, and fiscal oversight will be a solid asset to the North Carolina State Lottery Commission.” Poole is a certified public accountant and chartered global management accountant who has worked with businesses across North Carolina in accounting, financial reporting, management consulting, auditing and tax for more than two decades. Poole has served as a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, board member of the North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants (NCACPA), chair-
als, sodas, chips, frozen pizzas and other grocery items. Scientists have been working to define and classify processed foods for well over a decade. But sweeping definitions come with downsides. They can be often applied to foods like whole grain bread, yogurt and granola that are all highly processed but still considered nutritious. Some recent efforts to define ultraprocessed foods include carve-outs for foods that meet nutrition standards despite having processed ingredients. FDA proposal would bring new insights on additives used by food companies In the U.S., an estimated 10,000 additives are allowed in food, including thickeners, preservatives and packaging ingredients. Consumer advocates have long argued that many of those ingredients have never been properly vetted because of the FDA’s policy allowing manufacturers to certify for themselves that new additives are “generally recognized as safe,” or GRAS. The FDA’s Diamantas stressed Monday that the new policy would not require all new ingredients to undergo FDA review. He said that type of mandatory review would need to be enacted by Congress in order to rewrite FDA’s authority over the food supply. “What we’re doing is requiring companies that utilize the pathway to notify us of their conclusions so that we have greater visibility into those conclusions and consumers have awareness,” Diamantas said.
“The Lottery Commission oversees an enterprise that generates billions of dollars each year for the people of North Carolina, and that responsibility demands exceptional leadership.” Brad Briner, state treasurer man of the East Carolina University Board of Trustees, chair of the NCACPA Advocacy Advisory Council and president of the NCACPA Foundation. “I am honored to be appointed by State Auditor Boliek to serve on the North Carolina State Lottery Commission,” said Poole. “I look forward to working with my fellow commissioners to uphold public trust and ensure there is accountability in gaming in North Carolina.” The Lottery Commission oversees the operation of the North Carolina Education Lottery to ensure integrity, transparency and accountability. The lottery supports education programs across the state.
Under the proposal, the FDA would be expected to review new ingredient submission within 180 days. If FDA regulators have safety concerns, they could request additional information from manufacturers or request that they delay introducing the ingredient. Rule change in 1990s created so-called loophole Any substance intentionally added to food is supposed to undergo formal review — unless the additive is considered safe. Since the late 1950s, the government recognized that many common ingredients in foods, such as spices and vinegar, were widely consumed and understood to be safe for consumption. The FDA policed the GRAS exemption for years, but it took time and resources. Starting in 1997, the FDA began allowing companies to independently determine that a new additive is safe based on publicly available scientific evidence and the consensus of qualified experts. However, the list of products deemed GRAS by companies grew to include many synthetic and natural additives, all incorporated into the food supply without independent review. The process has created a “secret GRAS loophole,” according to the consumer advocacy group Center for Science in the Public Interest, that “undermines the integrity of our food safety system.” Food industry officials contend their internal reviews of additives are as rigorous as the FDA’s own processes.
[[Yä kknÊ
È··¸ä äȹºä äȹµä ȸµ½ä ä¾kk 855-910-AMMO
NCammunition.com
RandolpH
SPORTS
SPONSORED BY
2026 IS THE YEAR TO
eat mor chikin
RICK SCUTERI / AP PHOTO
Big-time big leaguer Former Asheboro ZooKeepers outfielder Ryan Waldschmidt has burst onto the scene as a rookie with the Arizona Diamondbacks. Here, teammates greet him following his two-run, walk-off home run in the ninth inning of the Diamondbacks’ 4-3 victory against the Los Angeles Dodgers last Friday night in Phoenix. It was his second home run with Arizona. In May in his first big-league game, Waldschmidt supplied a pinch-hit single vs. the New York Mets. He spent about three weeks back with Triple-A Reno before returning to the Diamondbacks in mid-July. Waldschmidt was with the ZooKeepers, a summer collegiate team, in 2022.
Status of UCA wrestling program remains in flux after coach’s exit The powerhouse Eagles have won four consecutive dual team state championships By Bob Sutton Randolph Record ASHEBORO — Uwharrie Charter Academy’s state-power wrestling program is amid a pe-
riod of uncertainty. With the school year beginning without a coach in place since the spring dismissal of a former coach, some families of varsity wrestlers have been exploring options because of concerns about the status of the 2026-27 season. “There is anxiousness from people about it,” said athletics director David Hayes, who’s
departing from UCA later this month. “We’re still holding out hope that we’re going to have the right candidate.” UCA has won dual team state championships in each of the past four seasons. Requests for additional information haven’t come from UCA, where classes for the new school year began Monday. Some questions about the wres-
tling program were referred to new superintendent Chris Wheat. Repeated attempts to reach Wheat last week and early this week failed. Messages haven’t been returned. UCA severed ties with Hayden Waddell, who coached the Eagles for two seasons following his father in that position, in May after his arrest on charges of misdemeanor child
abuse and contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile. An arrest warrant said that a teenage boy was the victim as he was restrained and physically threatened by several wrestlers during an offseason practice on campus. The wrestling program was launched by Chris Waddell, who’s now listed as an assistant principal at the high school. The elder Waddell was formerly coach at Southwestern Randolph. The Eagles had one of the most distinguished wrestlers in state history complete his UCA career in February. Lorenzo See UCA, page B2
Randolph wrestlers inspired by summer duals opportunity
Randleman fills slot on football slate
The area athletes received exposure in a different setting
The Tigers will face a school with a new program during the 2026 season
By Bob Sutton Randolph Record RANDOLPH COUNTY wrestlers Aiden Burkholder and Paxton Kearns said they made improvements while participating in a national summer tournament. They represented NC Wrestling United, a club based in Chapel Hill, during the Amateur Athletic Union’s Scholastic Duals in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. “I had never been on one of these teams before,” said Kearns, who previously wrestled for Uwharrie Charter Academy. “There definitely was some competition down there.” Burkholder, a two-time individual state champion for Trinity and a member of two of the Bulldogs’ dual team state See WRESTLERS, page B2
By Bob Sutton Randolph Record
COURTESY PHOTO
Paxton Kearns had success while competing for NC Wrestling United during the AAU Scholastic Duals.
RANDLEMAN — Randleman filled its football schedule with a bit of an unknown. The Tigers will face Felton Grove at home in the fifth week of the season as part of schedule adjustments that will filter into the Piedmont Athletic Conference portion of their slate. Felton Grove will be playing its first varsity season in 2026 after the school in Wake County opened last summer. Randleman needed another game because High Point Central dropped varsity football for 2026. High Point Central is a PAC member. PAC teams scrambled to find a 10th game after learning of High Point Central’s situation in January. For Randleman, the opening would have
“I hope it doesn’t come back to bite me.” David Diamont, Randleman coach come in the ninth week of the 11-week window to play 10 games. Randleman coach David Diamont said finding an out-of-conference opponent at that stage of the season would be difficult. So Diamont and High Point Andrews, which would have played High Point Central in the final week of the season, got creative. The Randleman/High Point Andrews game, which would have been Sept. 18, was moved to the last game of the regular season on Oct. 29. That made finding another opponent more likely for both schools. The arrangement between Randleman and Felton Grove, See RANDLEMAN, page B2
B2
Randolph Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
BEST OVERALL ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Kami Dunn
+20( 3/$7( 027256
Victory Junction to be featured on NASCAR Cup Series driver’s car The race at Richmond Raceway will give exposure to the camp in Randolph County Randolph Record staff VICTORY JUNCTION will be featured on the race car driven by Ty Gibbs in this weekend’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Richmond Raceway in Richmond, Virginia. Joe Gibbs Racing announced that with the support of sponsor Cook Out that Victory Junction will be the primary sponsor of the car for Saturday night’s race. Founded in honor of Adam Petty, Randolph County’s Victory Junction has spent more than two decades providing life-changing camp experiences for children living with complex medical and physical needs, welcoming thousands of campers and their families at no cost. “I was so excited when Jeremy Reaves called to tell me Cook Out wanted to feature a Victory Junction paint scheme on Ty Gibbs’ car at Richmond,” camp founder Kyle Petty said. “That track has always meant a lot to my family. Four generations of Pettys — my grandfather, my dad, myself, and Adam — have raced there, and we’ve welcomed so many campers from Virginia and the Richmond area over the years.
JOE GIBBS RACING
Ty Gibbs’ car for this week’s NASCAR Cup Series race will have a Victory Junction theme. “To see Victory Junction represented on a track where our family’s story runs so deep is incredibly meaningful. I can’t thank Jeremy, Ty, Cook Out and everyone at Joe Gibbs Racing enough for believing in Camp and helping introduce even more people to the amazing kids and families we serve. Before the green flag ever drops, Victory Junction is already a winner.” Since opening in 2004, Victory Junction has welcomed children from all 50 states and four countries, providing camp experiences that build confidence, foster independence and create lifelong friendships. Operating year-round, Victory Junction serves children living with a wide range of medical and physical conditions, ensuring every camper can attend regardless of their family’s financial circumstances. “Victory Junction does such
meaningful work for kids and their families, and it’s super special to have them on board,” Gibbs said in the release from his race team. “We’re proud to help shine a light on everything they do, and hopefully we can put the No. 54 Victory Junction/Cook Out Toyota Camry XSE up front under the lights at Richmond.” So far this season, Gibbs has posted career highs with 10 top-five finishes and 15 top-10 results in addition to his first career Cup Series win at Bristol Motor Speedway in April and his second triumph last Sunday at Iowa Speedway. In addition to the Richmond race, Joe Gibbs Racing announced Max Reaves will race a similar design in ARCA Menards Series races in August at Iowa Speedway, the Illinois State Fairgrounds in Springfield, Illinois, and Madison International Speedway.
separate division for females. Hayden Waddell and Chris Waddell attended a June awards ceremony held by the NCHSAA in Greensboro, where Alston was recognized for his achievements. The Eagles were 36-0 in duals during the past season. They’ve won five total dual team state titles. UCA has been state champion or runner-up in seven straight years. It’s tied for fifth place for the most NCHSAA
dual team championships alltime. The Eagles’ record in duals under Hayden Waddell was 751. Some wrestlers who had competed at UCA with remaining eligibility could be attending other schools within and near Randolph County. Paxton Kearns, a rising junior who placed third in the Class 4A state tournament earlier this year, said he’s transferring to Trinity.
BOB SUTTON / RANDOLPH RECORD
Kami Dunn wears another state championship medal.
Southwestern Randolph, softball Dunn was part of two state championships with the Cougars, including this year during her senior season. The second baseman was a key defender and offensive contributor. Dunn was named Player of the Year in the Four Rivers Conference. She scored four runs in the decisive game of the Class 4A state finals against West Wilkes in May. The Cougars won that game 11-5. Dunn, a two-time all-conference selection, chose to play college softball for Wingate.
During the summer, we recognize seniors from the past school year.
RANDLEMAN from page B1 which is located in Apex, is for one year. Felton Grove played on the junior varsity level last season for football while other sports at the school were at the varsity level. Often there are growing pains for new programs, while other times teams have flourished right away.
“I hope it doesn’t come back to bite me,” said Diamont, whose team finished 7-4 in 2025 in his first season. Felton Grove’s initial enrollment was about 1,150 students with expectations it will grow to 2,200. The Galaxy has been assigned to the Triangle Six 6A/7A Conference. Randleman is a Class 4A school.
Auto, Home, Life and Health Insurance A proud, lifelong resident of Randolph County, I've been protecting families since 2011. I look forward to helping you with your insurance needs. Please give me a call today.
Rob Stover Insurance Agent Authorized Agent
Rob Stover
336-629-9187 • robert.stover@ncfbins.com 140 NC Hwy. 42 North, Asheboro, NC 27203 Office: (336) 629-9187 | Fax: (336) 626-6838 | robert.stover@ncfbins.com
UCA from page B1 Alston won his fourth individual state championship, and he’s now a member of North Carolina State’s wrestling team. The program also was part of an historic accomplishment. In 2020, UCA’s Heaven Fitch was the first girl to win a North Carolina High School Athletic Association individual wrestling championship. That was before the NCHSAA created a
WRESTLERS from page B1 titlists, said making the North Carolina team for the tournament was the first step. “It’s huge for me,” he said. “It’s really hard to get on it.” Kearns, a rising junior who’s transferring to Trinity, and Burkholder, a rising senior, both posted 8-4 records during the AAU Scholastic Duals in late June. NC United went 9-0 in pool play and ended up 11-1 overall as the runner-up in the Gold Pool. That’s considered the best finish ever for an all-North Carolina team in the AAU Scholastic Duals. “I think I wrestled really well and got a lot better,” Burkholder said. Both wrestlers said the presence of NC Wrestling United coach Michael Macchiavello, a 2018 NCAA individual champion for NC State, left an impression. Macchiavello remains an active wrestler on the international level. Burkholder, whose accomplishments in Florida included a victory against a Georgia state champion, wrestled in the 113-pound division. Kearns competed in the 126 class during the duals, topping a state champion from Nebraska along the way. Burkholder said Macchiavello put the wrestlers through extensive warm-up routines that he said can be valuable for him in future events. He also worked on details. “I got a lot better positionally,” Burkholder said. Kearns, who eclipsed the 100-win mark for his high school career in February, was a third-place finisher in the Class 4A state meet. He said the exposure to different
COURTESY PHOTO
Trinity’s Aiden Burkholder, left, said that coach Michael Macchiavello provided valuable instruction during a summer tournament.
“I think I wrestled really well and got a lot better.” Aiden Burkholder, Trinity wrestler wrestlers in the Florida tournament is something he should benefit from. “There was a ton of very, very good nationally ranked kids,” Kearns said. Kearns said he made gains
with his on-mat mentality through the tournament. Burkholder and Kearns have been part of NC Wrestling United’s regular Sunday workouts in Chapel Hill. Both wrestlers have joined others from Randolph County with busy spring and summer schedules. Burkholder topped the field at 117 pounds in the Southern Throne in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, while Kearns was the 138 runner-up in that tournament.
Randolph Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
B3
pen & paper pursuits this week in history in London by Martin Secker & Warburg. 1959: Trumpeter Miles Davis released “Kind of Blue,” regarded as one of the most influential jazz albums of all time. 1998: President Bill Clinton gave grand jury testimony via closed-circuit television from the White House concerning his relationship with Monica Lewinsky.
King of Rock ’n’ Roll dies at 42, Sports Illustrated debuts, Miles Davis releases “Kind of Blue” The Associated Press AUG. 13 1521: Spanish conqueror Hernando Cortez captured Tenochtitlan, present-day Mexico City, from the Aztecs. 1792: French revolutionaries arrested and imprisoned King Louis XVI; he would be executed by guillotine the following January. 1995: Baseball Hall of Famer Mickey Mantle died at a Dallas hospital of rapidly spreading liver cancer at age 63. AUG. 14 1936: In front of an estimated 20,000 spectators, Rainey Bethea was hanged in Owensboro, Kentucky, in the last public execution in the United States. 1942: President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill signed the Atlantic Charter, which detailed the postwar goals of the two nations. 1945: President Harry S. Truman announced that Imperial Japan had surrendered unconditionally, ending World War II. AUG. 15 1057: Macbeth, King of Scots, was killed in battle by Malcolm, the eldest son of King Duncan, whom Macbeth had killed 17 years earlier. 1935: Humorist Will Rogers and aviator Wiley Post were killed when their airplane crashed near Point
MATT ROURKE / AP PHOTO
On Aug. 16, 2018, Aretha Franklin, the “Queen of Soul,” whose hits included “Respect” and “Think,” died in Detroit at age 76. Barrow in the Alaska Territory. 1969: The Woodstock Music and Art Fair opened in upstate New York; more than 460,000 people attended the three-day festival, which would become a watershed event in American music and culture. AUG. 16 1777: American forces won the Battle of Bennington in what was considered a turning point of the Revolutionary War. 1948: Baseball legend Babe Ruth died in New York at age 53. 1954: The first issue of Sports Illustrated was released. 1977: Elvis Presley died at his Graceland estate in Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of 42; 41 years later, in 2018, singer Aretha Franklin, known as the “Queen of Soul,” died in Detroit at the age of 76. AUG. 17 1945: The George Orwell novel “Animal Farm,” an allegorical satire of Soviet communism, was first published
AUG. 18 1590: John White, the governor of the Roanoke Island colony (in present-day North Carolina), returned to Roanoke after nearly three years abroad only to find the settlement deserted; the fate of the “Lost Colony” remains a mystery. 1914: President Woodrow Wilson issued his Proclamation of Neutrality, aimed at keeping the United States out of World War I. 1920: The 19th Amendment to the Constitution, guaranteeing American women’s right to vote, was ratified as Tennessee became the 36th state to approve it. AUG. 19 1692: Four men and one woman were hanged after being convicted of witchcraft at Salem in the Province of Massachusetts Bay; the story of one of the men, John Proctor, inspired Arthur Miller’s play “The Crucible.” 1812: The USS Constitution defeated the British frigate HMS Guerriere off Nova Scotia during the War of 1812, earning the nickname “Old Ironsides.” 1854: Thirty-one U.S. soldiers were killed after one of the soldiers fatally shot Brule Lakota Chief Conquering Bear, sparking the First Sioux War.
AP PHOTO
On Aug. 15, 1969, the three-day Woodstock music festival opened near Bethel, New York, featuring performers including Jimi Hendrix and Janis Joplin.
B4
Randolph Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Book found bricked in fireplace returned to Australian library, 150 years overdue The volume will be displayed in the library’s local history collection
ing link. There’s nothing in the book that tells us who the last borrower was,” Hudson said. Library rules in the 1870s stated that a book had to be returned and an overdue debt paid before another book could be borrowed. “Maybe that’s why they never returned it to us,” Hudson said. Antiquated rules of the day included that up to three books could be borrowed by households in which at least six members were “known to be able to read.” Proof of reading ability is no longer required to use today’s library. In the 1870s, books were not lent to people who arrived at the library in a “state of intoxication.” Library users are now asked to leave if their behavior impacts others, but the rules are not specific about intoxication. Ross Simmons said he had no idea why his English immigrant ancestor, who had also served as an alderman in Kiama’s municipal government, would not have returned the book. He said he hadn’t been concerned by the prospect of being held liable by an angry librarian for his family’s debt. “I’ve spent a lifetime dealing with irate customers and being irate with customers myself. Just stick to your guns and say do your worst,” the 77-year-old said. “We’re not going to allow it to go back out again. We don’t want to wait another 150 years for this book to be returned,” Hudson said.
By Rod McGuirk The Associated Press MELBOURNE, Australia — A book on Greek antiquities has been returned to an Australian public library about 150 years late, with water damage from years bricked into a fireplace. The book was returned to the library in the seaside town of Kiama last week by a local Ross Simmons who had found it during recent home renovations inside a tea crate bricked into a sealed fireplace, Kiama Library manager Michelle Hudson said. “We’ve never had anything that old come back to us,” Hudson said. “I follow lots of libraries on social media, and often you’ll get things that are maybe 30 or 40 years old when they’re cleaning out estates and stuff like that,” she added. Ross Simmons said last Friday he assumed the book was borrowed by his great-great-grandfather John Simmons, who had owned the house where it was found. “I’m making an assumption. He was in residence in the cottage around about that time and his children were probably too young,” Ross Simmons said. The library opened in 1872, and the book, “Antiquities of Athens,” published in 1858,
CATHERINE TAYLOR VIA AP
A copy of “Antiquities of Athens,” stamped by a library, was returned July 30 in Kiama, Australia, approximately 150 years late. was marked as No. 506 in the library’s original collection of around 1,000 books. Hudson suspects the book was lost within a few years of the library opening. The late return fine would be around $19,500, allowing for inflation, Hudson said. That was calculated on the British three pence-a-week overdue fee that was printed on the inside cover of the book, along with a list of rules that applied when the library opened. But Hudson said the library’s records of borrowers in the 1870s had been lost. “Unfortunately, we have a miss-
SOLUTIONS FOR THIS WEEK
‘Lost Weekend’ serves as Bridgers’ evocative sonic collage For fans of road trips without a destination, old home videos and ambient music By Elise Ryan The Associated Press A TUNING RADIO. The shouts and muffled beats of a New Year’s Eve party. A voicemail from her father. On her excellent third studio album, “Lost Weekend,” Phoebe Bridgers creates a collage of the years since we last heard from her as a solo artist. It’s her first solo album since 2020’s beloved “Punisher” and the return of her supergroup with Lucy Dacus and Julien Baker, Boygenius. Those intervening years, Bridgers explains in press materials, were also full of personal changes and challenges. One relationship dissolved and another blossomed. And in 2022, her father died. The album is dedicated to him. Those are the dominant experiences Bridgers examines across the record, which sees her pair her signature lyrical style with enthralling, complex sonic arrangements. The journey she brings listeners on is not linear but feels instead like a sort of road trip. Some experiences are lingered within; others merely drift past. Bridgers visits a mall on “Liberty Tree,” as a relationship sparks. A van breaks down in the title track, just before she acknowledges the breakup of a proposed marriage. On “Panorama,” ambient beats pulse and mix with a guitar track for over a minute before the listener arrives at Bridgers’ verse, and a hotel room. It’s a resting place, giving listeners space to absorb some of the more intense lyrical revelations surrounding the track. In classic Bridgers’ fashion, the images evoked send listen-
RICHARD SHOTWELL / INVISION VIA AP PHOTO
Phoebe Bridgers poses with her four Grammy Awards during the 66th annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles in 2024.
“I wasn’t too young to understand / I just didn’t think it was so bad.” Phoebe Bridgers ers lurching from euphoria to heart-wrenching melancholy. Screams undercut the opening of “Bobby,” about how the intensity of a love can be felt in the mundane details of a shared life. Banjo played by co-producer Jack Antonoff peeks out from below the heavier drum and guitar track — a wistful, carefree, sonic thread. “Bobby, this could be the end of wanting,” she sings, as the instruments soften. When the track resurges, that refrain is repeated: “This could be the end.” Endings remain a Bridgers motif, but the hope imbued in this one makes it feel like an antidote to her apocalypse-anthem “I Know The End.” “Still Standing” sees Bridgers reflect on a different kind of ending. Acoustic guitar builds as she recalls moments
from her childhood and considers her relationship with her late father: “I wasn’t too young to understand / I just didn’t think it was so bad,” she sings. “And it wasn’t in a way / And now there is nothing.” Across the project, the intentionality displayed is stark. Space is not wasted. “Never Going Back!” is lyrically simple, for example, but complicated by that voicemail. Throughout, those collected clips are grounding — like intercepted signals from reality, breaking into the soundscape Bridgers has crafted to help herself (and us listeners) understand it. In early June, Bridgers played a selection of hits and songs from the album at Madison Square Garden, the cap on a series of pop-up concerts. Phones were strictly prohibited. Even pencils were banned. The limited distractions didn’t silence the gasps and cries of reaction, but the lack of electronics allowed for more careful listening. Those shows were a signal for how this album should be absorbed: carefully, deliberately.
THE BEST TACOS & Margaritas
Traditional recipes from the center of Mexico Made modern and fresh in the center of Asheboro!
138 Sunset Avenue, Asheboro, NC • 336-628-0158 • tacolococantina.com
B5
Randolph Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Baking scratch-made cakes,cookies, pies, pastries, brownies and more since 1945.
We Accept Custom Orders
122 N. Church St. Asheboro, NC 336-625-3239
(336) 625-3239
Follow us on Facebook for updates!
Central Bakery
Taste the authentic flavors of Mexico
La Hacienda is the perfect family dining destination with something to satisfy every palate. 1434 E Dixie Dr., Asheboro, NC • (336) 625-6700
famous birthdays this week Maxine Waters hits 88, Ben Affleck turns 54, Robert De Niro is 83, Bill Clinton celebrates 80 The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week. AUG. 13 Former U.S. Surgeon General Joycelyn Elders is 93. Opera singer Kathleen Battle is 78. High wire aerialist Philippe Petit is 77. Hockey Hall of Famer Bobby Clarke is 77. Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders is 44.
EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION VIA AP
Pop star Madonna turns 68 on Sunday.
AUG. 14
LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION
Broadway lyricist Lee Adams (“Bye Bye Birdie”) is 102. Country singer Connie Smith is 85. Comedian-actor Steve Martin is 81. Actor Susan Saint James is 80. Author Danielle Steel is 79. “Far Side” cartoonist Gary Larson is 76. NASCAR Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace is 70. Basketball Hall of Famer Earvin “Magic” Johnson is 67. AUG. 15 Actor Jim Dale is 91. Retired Supreme Court Justice Stephen Breyer is 88. U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.) is 88. Author-journalist Linda Ellerbee is 82. Songwriter Jimmy Webb is 80. Britain’s Princess Anne is 76. Actor Debra Messing is 58. Actor Ben Affleck is 54.
er and retired NBA All-Star Christian Laettner is 57.
AUG. 16
AUG. 18
Actor Julie Newmar is 93. Film director Bruce Beresford is 86. Actor Bob Balaban is 81. Movie director James Cameron is 72. Singer/actor Madonna is 68. Actor Angela Bassett is 68. Actor Steve Carell is 64.
Actor Denis Leary is 69. Actor Madeleine Stowe is 68. ABC News reporter Bob Woodruff is 65. Actor Edward Norton is 57. Actor Christian Slater is 57. Actor Kaitlin Olson is 51. Actor-comedian Andy Samberg is 48.
AUG. 17
AUG. 19
Computer scientist Margaret Hamilton is 90. Actor Robert De Niro is 83. Businessman Larry Ellison is 82. Actor Sean Penn is 66. Singer/actor Donnie Wahlberg is 57. College Basketball Hall of Fam-
Former tennis player and coach Renee Richards is 92. Actor Jill St. John is 86. Author Jack Canfield is 82. Rock singer Ian Gillan (Deep Purple) is 81. Former President Bill Clinton is 80. Actor John Stamos is 63.
AL SEIB / INVISION VIA AP
Actor, comedian and musician Steve Martin turns 81 on Friday.
B6
Randolph Record for Thursday, August 13, 2026
the stream
AMY HARRIS / INVISION VIA AP PHOTO
Travis Barker performs with Clipse during the first weekend of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in April in Indio, California.
‘Michael,’ Travis Barker, ‘Lanterns,’ ‘Madden NFL 27’ Singer Carly Simon releases “Comes In Waves” on Friday The Associated Press THE BLOCKBUSTER biopic “Michael” and a new documentary about Travis Barker 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, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: players can get back on the gridiron in “Madden NFL 27,” a new season of “Reacher” drops, and Carly Simon releases her first album in more than a decade. MOVIES TO STREAM The Michael Jackson biopic “Michael” is now streaming on Starz after a $1 billion run at the box office. Director Antoine Fuqua’s estate-approved dramatization of Jackson’s life stars his nephew Jaafar Jackson as the King of Pop. In my review, I wrote that “Michael” “slides a sequin glove over the pop star’s tarnished legacy, shrouding Michael Jackson’s complications with a conventional biopic that, if you cover your ears, sounds great.” The Netflix-Sandler connection continues Friday in “Don’t Say Good Luck,” a Happy Madison production starring Sandler’s daughter Sunny. In the coming-of-age comedy, she plays a high school theater student whose school play aspirations are complicated by her mother’s illness. Melanie Lynskey co-stars in the film. In “Normal” (Friday on HBO Max), Bob Odenkirk extends his action-hero resume beyond the two “Nobody” movies. In director Ben Wheatley’s film, Odenkirk plays a substitute sheriff who arrives in a wintery Min-
nesota town full of strange happenings, including the recent death of the previous sheriff. In his review, AP Film Writer Jake Coyle called it “a hyperviolent Midwestern Western that cleverly inverts some genre standards with a pleasingly loose hold on reality.” MUSIC TO STREAM Less than three minutes into “Travis Barker: Louder Than Fear,” a new documentary about the famed Blink-182 drummer, and audiences are launched into the aftermath of the devastating plane crash he survived in 2008. The film follows the esteemed musician from 2017 to 2026 but doubles as a celebration of his life before and after the life-altering crash, a central event in a career full of them. It’s a must-watch for fans, or simply those in need of a dynamic doc about resiliency. Stream it on Hulu on Thursday. Simon has been in headlines as of late; in July she shared that she has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and was recently treated for skin cancer. It makes her forthcoming album “Comes In Waves” — her first album of original songs since 2008, out Friday — even more of a miracle. “Working on the music gave shape to days that did not always have much shape. It gave me somewhere to go without having to leave the room,” she said in a statement. “It reminded me that illness can change your life without becoming the whole of your life.” Becky G is back with the bilingual “Baraja Bendita,” a new album and her first since leaving Kemosabe Records. Fans expecting more of 2024’s “Encuentros,” which explored rancheras and corridos, may be wise to return to that release. In this one, out Friday, she has assured in interviews, it is still a celebration of her Mexican her-
MAGNOLIA PICTURES / LIONSGATE PICTURES / NETFLIX VIA AP
The films “Normal,” from left, “Michael” and “Don’t Say Good Luck” are all available to stream this week.
“‘Normal’ is a hyperviolent Midwestern Western that cleverly inverts some genre standards with a pleasingly loose hold on reality.” Jake Coyle, AP film writer
ANDY KROPA / INVISION VIA AP PHOTO
Bob Odenkirk attends the premiere of “Normal” at Metrograph in April in New York. itage. It is still Becky G, after all — but largely, it is a return to her rap-pop roots. SERIES TO STREAM The first three episodes of Season 4 of “Reacher” starring Alan Ritchson are now on Prime Video. The new episodes are based on the 13th book in the Jack Reacher series by Lee Child called “Gone Tomorrow.” After Reacher witnesses a woman take her own life on the subway, he becomes a target for information she passed onto him before her death. Season 3 of “Tires,” starring stand-up comics Steve Gerben and Shane Gillis, arrives on Netflix on Thursday. The show is a workplace come-
dy about the employees of an auto repair shop that leans into its blue-collar setting. Gerben and Gillis co-created the show with John McKeever, who directs all the episodes. The trio also writes most of the series as well. Kyle Chandler and Aaron Pierre star in the new HBO series “Lanterns,” which premieres Sunday on HBO Max. The show is based on DC Comics’ Green Lantern characters. Chandler and Pierre play Hal Jordan and John Stewart, members of the intergalactic law enforcement tasked with maintaining order throughout the universe and its galaxies. Their job takes them to Earth where they investigate a murder in Nebraska. “Lanterns” is
the second live-action series in the debut phase of the new DC Universe under co-chairs James Gunn and Peter Safran. Part sci-fi superhero story, it’s also inspired by mysteries like “True Detective.” VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY This long, hot summer can’t be over soon enough, so thank goodness “Madden NFL 27” is on its way. EA Sports has even put a cold-weather quarterback, the Chicago Bears’ Caleb Williams, on the cover. And the new edition has “dynamic weather,” meaning you could get slammed by a snowstorm midway through a game. EA is also promising new short-yardage mechanics and tighter defensive coverage. And wannabe franchise owners can look forward to the “Persona Engine,” which EA says “gives every NFL athlete a distinct personality.” Autumn arrives Thursday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S, Switch 2 and PC.
VOLUME 11 ISSUE 25 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | HOKE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM
SUBSCRIBE: 919-663-3232
HOKE COUNTY THE HOKE COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
JASON JACKSON FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Hoke Schools Superintendent Kenneth Spells and other dignitaries cut the ribbon to open the new Hoke County High School last Thursday. See more photos of the new facility on page A4.
WHAT’S HAPPENING Contiguous U.S. breaks record for hottest month ever, NOAA says The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says the contiguous United States set a record for its hottest month ever in July. Last month averaged 76.89 degrees Fahrenheit across the Lower 48 states, eclipsing the Dust Bowl’s July 1936 by an eighth of a degree. Although it was unusually cool in Alaska, hotter than normal conditions blanketed the Lower 48, with the most excessive heat in the Mountain West, Southwest, Northern Plains and Southeast. The biggest driver of the heat was at night. Nighttime lows, which are crucial for people and agriculture to recover from hot days, smashed the old record for hottest minimums by 0.7 degrees, the NOAA said.
U.S. existing homes fall 1.7% in July as record prices, high rates stifle would-be buyers Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes slowed again in July as record prices and the highest mortgage rates in more than a year prove to be an insurmountable hurdle for many prospective homebuyers. The National Association of Realtors said Tuesday that existing home sales fell 1.7% last month from June to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.06 million units. July sales, however, were up 0.7% over last year. Home prices continued to rise, hitting unprecedented levels for July. The U.S. median sales price increased 2% from a year earlier, to $434,100.
$2.00
New Hoke High School nearing completion The building is expected to be ready for the start of the school year By Ryan Henkel North State Journal RAEFORD — Construction on the new Hoke High School project was completed this month, with an official ribbon cutting being held Aug. 6. “It was an awesome day,” said Board Chair Ruben Castellon. “We cut the ribbons to open up the high school project, and I’ll tell you what — we walked the campus about a month or two before that day, and it’s day and night. It’s like a futuristic building.” “I’ve been to a lot of ribbon
cuttings in Hoke County, and I don’t think I’ve ever been to one that had that much community support,” said board member Jessica Brown. “All generations, different classes of people that were all really proud to see Hoke High. It means something to them, and so that was great to see.” The building still needs to be furnished, stocked and occupied, but that is expected to be possible by the end of the month. According to Project Manager John Birath, the classroom furniture, instructional materials and technology items are expected to be delivered and installed this week. Currently, the building has a temporary certificate of occupancy, which only allows staff to
“It might feel tight to a lot of people, but we have a plan and we’re executing it.” John Birath, Hoke County High School project manager be in the building, but the final certificate is anticipated to be granted next week as well and in time for the start of the school year. “The inside of the building, life safety features, everything of that nature has been approved and done, so there’s just these few items that need to happen and they just take some time to
Trump officials propose new scrutiny of food ingredients The rule would close a decades-old loophole allowing companies to self-approve food additives By Matthew Perrone The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. health officials on Monday proposed a rule change that would require food manufacturers to notify regulators before introducing new ingredients or additives into processed or packaged foods. The proposal would change a decades-old policy that advocates have called a regulatory loophole, blaming it for allowing thousands of unvetted ingredients into the U.S. food supply. Under the proposed rule from the Food and Drug Administration, companies
“Shifting to a mandatory notification system closes a decades-old information gap, giving the FDA the comprehensive visibility needed to enhance postmarket safety.” Kyle Diamantas, acting FDA commissioner would have to document and submit their safety findings for new ingredients, giving regulators the opportunity to investigate if they see a potential safety risk. Currently, companies can decide for themselves if an ingredient or additive is “generally recognized as safe,” and there is no requirement
for companies to notify or submit evidence to the FDA, although some do. “Shifting to a mandatory notification system closes a decades-old information gap, giving the FDA the comprehensive visibility needed to enhance postmarket safety,” acting FDA Commissioner Kyle Diamantas told reporters Monday. The FDA will take comments on the proposal for 120 days. Government scrutiny of ultraprocessed food continues, but with few details In a separate move, the FDA said it completed work on the federal government’s first definition of ultraprocessed food but did not release any details or the proposed language. The agency said it has submit-
get there,” Birath said. “But we are 100% confident we’ll be welcoming in everyone in the school, students and staff, on Monday the 24th. It might feel tight to a lot of people, but we have a plan and we’re executing it.” “It goes to show that when you work as a team, you can get things done,” said board member Catherine Blue. “It’s a beautiful school, and I’m excited about the first day.” Phase 2 of the project (the demolition of the old Hoke High School, along with the construction of the tennis courts, bus lot and additional parking) is expected to be completed by May 2027. According to Birath, the project has used up 100% of the contractor contingency, but there’s still around $300,000 in combined contingency from other various funds. “The worst is behind us,” Birath said. “We’re very healthy on finances for the project.” The Hoke County Schools Board of Education will next meet Sept. 8.
ted the definition to the White House for further review. Health advocates consider an official definition of ultraprocessed food a key step toward bringing greater scrutiny to packaged foods that are blamed for multiple chronic health problems afflicting Americans. A government-backed definition could pave the way for more federal research and, eventually, possible labeling or other restrictions on processed foods. Neither of Monday’s announcements are likely to immediately impact American diets, which are packed with fats, sodium and sugar and are blamed for a host of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease. But both initiatives are considered top priorities for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who entered government vowing to crack down on artificial colors, additives and other ingredients. Ultraprocessed foods are made using industrial processing and additives, colors, preservatives or other See FOOD, page A2
A2
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
THURSDAY
8.13.26
2 appointed to state Lottery Commission Bryan Starnes was installed as chair, and Jason Poole was named a member of the board
By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal
“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 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
We stand corrected To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.
FOOD from page A1 ingredients not found in home kitchens. The foods include sugary cereals, sodas, chips, frozen pizzas and other grocery items. Scientists have been working to define and classify processed foods for well over a decade. But sweeping definitions come with downsides. They can be often applied to foods like whole grain bread, yogurt and granola that are all highly processed but still considered nutritious. Some recent efforts to define ultraprocessed foods include carve-outs for foods that meet nutrition standards despite having processed ingredients.
RALEIGH — Two appointments were made to the North Carolina Lottery Commission last week. Bryan Starnes was appointed as chair of the Lottery Commission by state Treasurer Brad Briner. Starnes will begin his five-year term Sept. 1 and will replace Ripley Rand, who has served as chair since December 2022. “The Lottery Commission oversees an enterprise that generates billions of dollars each year for the people of North Carolina, and that responsibility demands exceptional leadership,” said Briner in the press release. “Bryan Starnes has spent his career earning the trust of businesses, employees and stakeholders by demonstrating financial expertise, strong judgment and unwavering integrity. “He is exactly the kind of qualified leader North Carolinians deserve in this important role, and I am confident he will help ensure the Lottery Commission operates with accountability, transparency and sound stewardship,” said Briner. Starnes has worked for nearly four decades in accounting, finance and executive leadership as a certified public accountant. He began his career at Deloitte & Touche before becoming a controller for a North Carolina furniture manufacturer. In 1992, he worked as a partner at Martin Starnes & Associates, where he grew the firm into a respected accounting practice until 2011. In 2012, Starnes worked his way up from asset manager to
FDA proposal would bring new insights on additives used by food companies In the U.S., an estimated 10,000 additives are allowed in food, including thickeners, preservatives and packaging ingredients. Consumer advocates have long argued that many of those ingredients have never been properly vetted because of the FDA’s policy allowing manufacturers to certify for themselves that new additives are “generally recognized as safe,” or GRAS. The FDA’s Diamantas stressed Monday that the new policy would not require all new ingredients to undergo
COURTESY TRP SUMNER
Jason Poole
“The Lottery Commission oversees an enterprise that generates billions of dollars each year for the people of North Carolina, and that responsibility demands exceptional leadership.” Brad Briner, state treasurer chief accounting officer at Meridian Senior Living. Since 2013, he has worked as the chief financial officer at ALG Senior, a senior housing management and consulting company. Starnes has overseen billions of dollars in assets and transactions and built a reputation for accountability and strong financial oversight. As chief financial officer at ALG Senior, Starnes handled accounting, finance, risk management, human resources and policy advocacy for organizations managing more
FDA review. He said that type of mandatory review would need to be enacted by Congress in order to rewrite FDA’s authority over the food supply. “What we’re doing is requiring companies that utilize the pathway to notify us of their conclusions so that we have greater visibility into those conclusions and consumers have awareness,” Diamantas said. Under the proposal, the FDA would be expected to review new ingredient submission within 180 days. If FDA regulators have safety concerns, they could request additional information from manufacturers or request that they delay introducing the ingredient.
COURTESY N.C. STATE TREASURER
Bryan Starnes than 100 senior living communities across the nation. Starnes has been married to his wife, Sandy, for 40 years, and has three children and nine grandchildren. Starnes’ appointment is the first time the state treasurer has been authorized to appoint the chair of the Lottery Commission. The change was made by the North Carolina General Assembly in the yearly state budget. Alongside Starnes, Robert “Jason” Poole was appointed by State Auditor Dave Boliek to serve on the Lottery Commission. His appointment comes due to a recent state law allowing the state auditor to appoint one of the nine members of the commission. “Jason Poole is a respected financial professional with a strong record of leadership and service to North Carolina,” said Boliek in the press release. “His expertise in accounting, governance, and fiscal oversight will be a solid asset to the North Carolina State Lottery Commission.” Poole is a certified public accountant and chartered global management accountant who
has worked with businesses across North Carolina in accounting, financial reporting, management consulting, auditing and tax for more than two decades. Poole has served as a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, board member of the North Carolina Association of Certified Public Accountants (NCACPA), chairman of the East Carolina University Board of Trustees, chair of the NCACPA Advocacy Advisory Council and president of the NCACPA Foundation. “I am honored to be appointed by State Auditor Boliek to serve on the North Carolina State Lottery Commission,” said Poole. “I look forward to working with my fellow commissioners to uphold public trust and ensure there is accountability in gaming in North Carolina.” The Lottery Commission oversees the operation of the North Carolina Education Lottery to ensure integrity, transparency and accountability. The lottery supports education programs across the state.
Rule change in 1990s created so-called loophole
is safe based on publicly available scientific evidence and the consensus of qualified experts. However, the list of products deemed GRAS by companies grew to include many synthetic and natural additives, all incorporated into the food supply without independent review. The process has created a “secret GRAS loophole,” according to the consumer advocacy group Center for Science in the Public Interest, that “undermines the integrity of our food safety system.” Food industry officials contend their internal reviews of additives are as rigorous as the FDA’s own processes.
Any substance intentionally added to food is supposed to undergo formal review — unless the additive is considered safe. Since the late 1950s, the government recognized that many common ingredients in foods, such as spices and vinegar, were widely consumed and understood to be safe for consumption. The FDA policed the GRAS exemption for years, but it took time and resources. Starting in 1997, the FDA began allowing companies to independently determine that a new additive
Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: hokecommunity@northstatejournal.com Weekly deadline is Monday at Noon
A podcast local to Hoke-Raeford, NC, with Ruben Castellon and Chris Holland.
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
A3
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH
The hard lesson for AIPAC
The message to other candidates is clear: AIPAC money comes with a price.
THERE ARE PLENTY of explanations for what happened in the Michigan Senate Democratic primary, where Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive, was declared the victor over Rep. Haley Stevens, a moderate, by a razor-thin margin of 1%. For starters, he was the outsider, a former public health official talking about the fundamental economic issues, while she was Sen. Chuck Schumer’s second choice (after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer) for the seat. He was, according to observers, the better communicator, the better orator, connecting on issues of affordability while she was expounding on her love for Michigan. He worked harder. He started campaigning well over a year ago and did some 500 public events against a candidate who stayed mostly out of the public eye and dodged tough questions. And the polls were wrong, as usual. The polls were projecting a double-digit El-Sayed victory. That didn’t happen. It turned into a cliffhanger, and El-Sayed only won by a razor-thin margin. So in that sense, as is always true of very close races, anything could have made the difference. But there are certain facts coming out of Michigan that cannot be denied. Stevens was supported by some $60 million in outside money, including more than $30 million from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. That’s AIPAC, for short, the pro-Israel lobby that used to wield enormous clout in Washington and in national politics. Her extraordinary support from AIPAC became an issue in the campaign, as did her opponent’s stance on Israel. El-Sayed is the sort of candidate AIPAC exists to defeat. He believes that Israel committed genocide in Gaza. He has pledged to cut U.S. military aid to Israel. And, according to The New
York Times, he has said he does not believe Israel should exist as an explicitly Jewish state. Throughout the campaign, El-Sayed attacked Stevens for her pro-Israel position and said he hoped to go to Washington to influence policy on Israel, especially among the party’s 2028 hopefuls. AIPAC spent more money, according to the Times, trying to beat El-Sayed than any outside group has in a primary this year. They put more than $30 million on the scale and became a much-debated issue in the campaign for doing so. The message to other candidates is clear: AIPAC money comes with a price. Did it hurt Stevens more than it helped her? While apologists for AIPAC may spin that even with prevailing winds against them, they almost pulled it off, the fact of the matter is that they didn’t pull it off. They lost. A few years ago, there would have been no place in the Democratic Party for a candidate like El-Sayed. His views on Palestine would have been unacceptable. He would not have been given a speaking role at a convention. As I write this, the party is unifying behind him to give him a speaking and voting role in the U.S. Senate. As the polls have measured, accurately, public opinion on Israel has shifted dramatically, and negatively. Some of us continue, albeit with difficulty, to draw a line between our support for Israel and our opposition to its current government, but most people don’t. They don’t view Israel through the Holocaust-tinged glasses of my generation. We know this. AIPAC has to know this. The lesson of Michigan cannot be that they just needed a little more money. The message is not working. Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
COLUMN | LARRY ELDER
AI cannot give writers something to say
Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed.
AFTER NEARLY 35 YEARS as a talk show host, I’ve had many young broadcasters ask me, “What’s the secret?” My answer always surprises them because it’s so short. “Have something to say.” Most expect advice about voice, pacing, interview techniques, social media or how to handle callers. Those things matter. But they’re secondary. If you don’t have an interesting idea, no amount of polish will keep an audience listening. The audience may admire your delivery for a while, but eventually it wants substance. It wants a reason to come back tomorrow. The same principle applies to writing. Someone once asked me, “What makes a good writer?” My answer was the same: “Having something to say.” Good grammar helps. A large vocabulary helps. A clever turn of phrase helps. But readers don’t return because of sentence structure. They return because the writer consistently offers an insight, an argument or an observation they had not considered before. The style attracts attention. The ideas keep it. That’s one reason the rise of artificial intelligence doesn’t worry me nearly as much as it worries some people. AI can make a sentence cleaner. It can tighten a paragraph. It can suggest a better headline, organize research and identify weaknesses in an argument. It can save a substantial amount of time in tracking down sources. Those are remarkable tools. But recently, a judge blasted an attorney whose legal brief cited cases that were either nonexistent or did not support the proposition for which they were cited. Blind and lazy reliance on AI was the likely culprit. But AI cannot live your life for you. It cannot accumulate your experiences, your failures, your successes, your conversations or your observations. Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed. AI can help you communicate an idea more effectively, but it cannot give you a lifetime from which original ideas are born. The same lesson appears in coaching. NFL coach Bum Phillips once paid Hall of Fame coach Don Shula perhaps the greatest compliment one coach has ever paid another: “He can take his’n and beat your’n. And your’n and beat his’n.” In other words, if Shula had the better team, he would beat you. But if you had the
better team, he might beat you anyway. Phillips was saying that great coaches first maximize their advantages. Then, every so often, they overcome their disadvantages. When I practiced law, I came to a similar conclusion about trial lawyers. A good trial lawyer wins all the cases he should — and a few he shouldn’t. He doesn’t lose the cases he should win through poor preparation or weak advocacy. Then, once in a while, through judgment, preparation and persuasion, he wins a case the facts and the law suggest he would lose. The exceptional performer first masters the fundamentals. Only then can he elevate his craft. In broadcasting, they ask about microphones instead of ideas. In writing, they ask about style instead of substance. In coaching, they ask about strategy instead of talent. In law, they ask about courtroom theatrics instead of judgment. The essentials come first. Everything else is an enhancement. Technology can improve prose, summarize documents and organize research in seconds. Those advances are valuable, even remarkable, but none answers the question that matters most: What do you actually think? If you have nothing worth saying, technology won’t rescue you. If you do have something worth saying, technology becomes a force multiplier, enabling you to communicate more clearly and more efficiently. Despite all the technological changes during my career — from computers and the internet to radio and podcasts and now to artificial intelligence — the secret remains the same. It applies to writing a column, hosting a radio show, giving a speech or leading a meeting. People still hunger for fresh ideas, honest observations and genuine insight. They still appreciate someone who can make sense of confusing events or articulate what others struggle to say. After all these years behind a microphone, through changing technologies and changing media, my answer remains the same. Every profession has an indispensable first principle. Miss it, and no amount of technique will save you. Have something to say. Larry Elder is an author and nationally syndicated radio talk show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com.)
A4
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
New School year The new Hoke County High School opens this year for students. The $78 million facility spreads across 145,000 square feet, helped by state grants from the North Carolina Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund and North Carolina Education Lottery funding. Hoke County contributed $28.4 million.
PHOTOS BY JASON JACKSON FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL
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.
Samantha Pierce
Weldon Baldwin
JVTWHZZPVUH[L HUK OHYK^VYRPUN 4LK Mrs. Florence Herbert has been a resident here ;LJO 7*( ^OV W\[Z since May 2021. She moved to North Carolina [OL YLZPKLU[Z ULLKZ ILMVYL OLY V^U from Pennsylvania to escape the bad weather. Florence enjoys word searches, BINGO, :OL WYV]PKLZ WYVMLZZPVUHS JHYL HUK watching TV and spending time with her friends HS^H`Z on the Special Care Unit at Integrity Open Arms. TLL[Z [OL ULLKZ >LSKVU SV]LZ [V IL PU [OL JVTWHU` VM VM [OL YLZPKLU[ Mrs. Betty Purcell is from Raeford, North Carolina. V[OLYZ ^OV YLHSS` SPRL [V LUQV` WLHJL HUK :HHTHU[OH PZ She moved into our assisted living this past June. X\PL[ /L PZ [Y\S` H SPNO[ PU V\Y JVTT\UP[` HU HZZL[ [V 6WLU Besides being the mother of two, she worked for /L SV]LZ [V NV V\[ZPKL [V LUQV` [OL (YTZ HUK [OL many years at Burlington Mills. Betty enjoys church, Z\USPNO[ /L PZ KLÄUP[LS` VUL VM H RPUK HUK YLZPKLU[Z HYL NSHK [V OH]L OLY watchingHKKZ ]HS\L [V V\Y JVTT\UP[` youtube and doing word searches.
ĕĊē ėĒĘ ĊęĎėĊĒĊēę ĊēęĊė
Caringfor for Seniors Seniors Caring
Committedto toserving servingand and Committed enrichingthe thelives livesof ofevery everyresident resident enriching AffordableAssisted AssistedLiving Living Affordable and Memory Care and Memory Care
Weare arehappy happyto todiscuss discussyour yourneeds needsor or We TXHVWLRQV :H·UH KHUH WR KHOS questions. WH·UH here to help! IntegrityOpen OpenArms ArmsRetirement RetirementCenter Center Integrity 612Health HealthDrive Drive••Raeford, Raeford,NC NC 612
openarmsretirement.com •• 910-875-3949 910-875-3949 openarmsretirement.com OpenArms-resident ad.indd 1
9/7/22 3:42 PM
HOKE SPORTS Linemen pay price for success with selfless work ethic No football team can win big without efficient work by its unsung heroes By Michael Jaenicke North State Journal FORMER LINEMAN and current high school head coach Tim Grady frequently tells his running backs, “Go ahead and try to do it without an O-line.” Another assistant coach in the state, Jeremy Joyner, takes the duties and responsibilities a step further, coming short of calling linemen “Protectors of the Universe.” “It’s the only job in sports that the sole responsibility is to protect everyone else,” Joyner said. Assistant coach and ex-lineman Brad Rhodes says linemen, “must be selfless individuals.” In other words, it’s all guts and little personal glory. That is just part of what makes linemen special. And before this goes further, let’s dismiss the thought that linemen are just fat and lazy players. It’s as far from the truth as it can be, says Jacksonville offensive coordinator Pat Byrd, who said “linemen are the smartest players on the team.” Part of that is because linemen are more into the mental aspect of the game than meets the surface. Playbook proficient players Most coaches agree that linemen must not just know what to do during a given play but also know the roles of every other player on his side of the ball while reading the tendencies and focus of a defense. “Because of that, we tend to make our assignments and calls as simple as possible for them,” Rhodes said. And linemen must be physically prepared.
“They must be in shape, and weight training is also mandatory,” Grady said. “They carry 50 more pounds (than other players), and we ask them to go nearly every down on both sides of the ball all night long. You have to be conditioned to take that kind of hitting and running. It takes its toll after two or three quarters.” And size is not the final word on a player. In fact, there’s more technique than most fans can imagine. “It’s much more than just running,” Joyner said. “You have to know the fundamentals. If not, you will get beat often by someone you should beat nearly every time. It’s about good footwork and knowing what you are doing. Big bodies fall when players don’t have the fundamentals down. “But think about it. Every play you are delivering punishment, and that’s a lot over the course of a game.” Unity, solidarity in trenches Linemen must also be a unit of brothers. “Five guys, at least, must be on one accord,” Grady said. “The successful ones look at how a defense is denting us instead of it’s nothing but raw strength and want-to.” Smaller schools usually have smaller than average linemen (5-foot-9 to 6-foot-1 and 185 to 225 pounds) but often run the ball effectively against much larger lines. Bigger classifications require more height and beef (6-1 to 6-3 and 250 to 300 and more pounds). That’s normally the size colleges expect from incoming players. Last year, Jordan-Matthews had one player listed above 300 pounds and two more at 295. Four Seaforth players are listed above 250 on this year’s team. They are 4A and 5A, respectively. Meanwhile, 8A schools in
the Triangle area like Durham Jordan and Raleigh’s Leesville Road can start players that size at all five spots on the line, with plenty more ready to step in as subs. Linemen make or break a team, and they often carry the spirit of a team. “It’s not about glory because no one is tracking pancake blocks,” Rhodes said. “If an NFL defensive player makes one sack a game, he’s going to be an All-Pro. But if an offensive lineman gives up even a few sacks, he’s going to be dropped.” There’s a brotherhood of linemen. “It’s a blue-collar job, and here we don’t have to sell them on it because they humbly work for the team,” Grady said. “It’s a very humbling role, so having the right players there and having them play together is what it’s all about.” Joyner agrees. “They’re really some of the best kids to coach because it’s not about them,” he said. “It’s one unit, and though you can have a standout player or big physical guy, if the line is not cohesive everything else is for naught.”
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Amir Simmons
Center play is critical Kevin Motsinger, an offensive coordinator and O-line coach, said the action begins in the middle of the field and matriculates outward. “Center is the most important position on the field because nothing happens until he gets the ball to the quarterback,” he said. Motsinger went on to say communication and interaction at the line is his favorite part of football. “It’s like an arts performance to me,” he said. “And let me say this: Our success will be 100% on our offensive and defensive lines.”
Hoke County linemen hit the pads during a preseason football camp blocking drill.
COURTESY HC BUCKS ATHLETICS / FACEBOOK
COURTESY HOKE COUNTY SCHOOLS / FACEBOOK
Hoke County, boys’ soccer Amir Simmons is a senior on the Hoke County boys’ soccer team. He is also an individual conference champion and state-qualifier in boys’ bowling for the Bucks. The Bucks’ soccer team opened the 2026-27 season with a win in the Battle of the Bell Tournament, beating Triton 1-0. Simmons scored the game’s lone goal to send Hoke County to a win.
B2
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
SIDELINE REPORT NASCAR
NASCAR’s exhibition Clash returning to Daytona Daytona Beach, Fla. NASCAR’s exhibition Clash is returning to Daytona International Speedway for the first time in six years. The race will be Feb. 13, 2027. It doesn’t count for points and is the lead-up to the season-opening Daytona 500 on Feb. 21. Daytona hosted the Clash from 1979 to 2021. It was moved to Los Angeles Memorial Stadium for three years and then relocated to tiny Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem the last two years in a return to NASCAR’s grassroots racing.
NFL
Bears add experience to secondary by signing safety Woods Chicago The Chicago Bears added significant experience to their secondary by signing safety Xavier Woods. Woods has started in 121 games in nine NFL seasons. The Bears placed defensive back Dallis Flowers on injured reserve following an injury to his right leg. The 31-year-old Woods has 15 career interceptions, including two in 11 games for Tennessee last season. He had 39 tackles for the Titans. Woods played his first four seasons with Dallas, where he started 48 of 60 games. He also has played for Minnesota and Carolina.
Trading Rutschman could help Orioles, but move shows how badly team’s plans went awry The former first overall pick was dealt to a division rival By Noah Trister The Associated Press SEVEN YEARS after drafting Adley Rutschman with the top overall pick, Orioles president Mike Elias traded the All-Star catcher to division rival Boston. In the interim, Baltimore managed one division title and one wild card before falling under .500. So Elias was asked point-blank why fans should believe he’s the man to guide the team to future success. “While the last couple of years have really felt like a step back, and have been a step back from where this team was in 2023 and 2024, we have so many good players in this organization,” he said. “We have so many things going for us in this organization in terms of the strength and the infrastructure, the business side of the operation, the ownership, the facilities. We now have a top farm system, and we have a great roster with a lot of really good players that are signed up for many years. And we have a lot of things going for us right now.” The trade may work out for
the Orioles in the long run. They acquired three of Boston’s top five prospects. Fans generally understand the logic of dealing a player who might leave as a free agent. But what makes this trade harder to stomach is the year and a half of failure that led up to it. In 2023, the Orioles won 101 games. Rutschman and infielder Gunnar Henderson were franchise cornerstones, and there were several more top prospects on the way. The assumption was there would be a lot more winning. Instead, the Orioles are in danger of missing the playoffs for a second straight season. “The last couple seasons have not gone to plan. There have been shortcomings, and ultimately those are my responsibility,” Elias said. “But this is a very hard game, we cannot succeed all the time, and we must keep going when things aren’t going our way.” Elias did not sound like a man whose job was in jeopardy. If Elias felt he needed to produce a playoff team this year, he could have kept Rutschman and even added help. There were reasons to trade him, though. Baltimore has catcher Samuel Basallo, who is signed long term and is seven years younger than Rutschman. This type of deal
“We have a lot of things going for us right now.” Mike Elias, Orioles president — using a surplus at a key position to acquire help elsewhere — is something the Orioles could perhaps have used more of a few years ago, when they had a wealth of hitting in the majors and minors but needed pitching. Once again, the Orioles have to sell their fans on minor league prospects. The last collection of young talent hasn’t totally delivered on its promise. Rutschman had a down year in 2025, and Henderson is having one this year. Jackson Holliday, Colton Cowser and Coby Mayo have all had struggles at the plate. Pitcher Grayson Rodriguez couldn’t stay healthy and was ultimately traded for outfielder Taylor Ward. (Ward, a pending free agent, was also dealt away.) When Elias arrived in November 2018, a rebuild was already underway after the team lost 115 games that year. “We had a lot of work to do around the org. We did it, and for a period of time there — we won a hundred games in 2023 — we had a consen-
sus farm system and a core that looked like it was in a tremendous spot, in a really historically strong spot,” Elias said. “I think to some degree I personally, looking back, got caught up in a narrative about a rebuild. Baseball’s very humbling, and it doesn’t go linearly, and things shifted and changed, and we had a lot of bad luck on the injury front. We had a lot of injuries, and we had regression and things that changed course.” It’s possible Baltimore’s fortune will swing back in a positive direction. The injury luck could improve, and maybe someone like Holliday grows into a star. Even so, Elias will have to prove he’s as good at buying as he seems to be at selling. “We’re in a really good spot with the health of the org, the talent that’s in the org, the players, the system that we have,” Elias said. “We need to get better, we need to continue to adjust and evolve. Our competition is very, very stiff, but I like where we’re at. The way that we’ve gotten here has felt different because of the last couple of years and how we’ve tapered down the last couple years from where our record was in 2023 and 2024. But the future is strong, and I think it starts right now.” Baltimore Orioles pitcher Kyle Bradish, left, and catcher Adley Rutschman, right, talk during a game last month.
SOCCER
Australia grants citizenship to pair of Iranian women’s soccer players Melbourne, Australia Two Iranian women soccer players who sought asylum in Australia have been granted citizenship. Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh said they were sworn in by Immigration Minister Tony Burke in Brisbane. Friends and supporters from the local Iranian community attended the ceremony. The Refugee Council of Australia noted that citizenship usually requires four years on a valid visa. The women joined Brisbane Roar after Iran withdrew from the Women’s Asia Cup hosted by Australia. CAROLYN KASTER / AP PHOTO
Blazer 9mm Magpul Ever wish you had a 115gr, FMJ Brass Cased
PMAGs
$299/case 10 for $90 Žƌ Ψϭϲͬ Ždž
local store which has The Best Prices on Cases of Ammo? The best selection of factory standard capacity magazines? An AWESOME selection of Modern Sporting Weapons from Leading Manufactures Like, Sig, FN, S&W, etc? Flamethrowers & Gatlin Guns? All at better than on-line prices?
You Do! Del-Ton M4 tŝƚŚ &Ƶůů >ĞŶŐƚŚ ZĂŝů͊
9796 Aberdeen Rd, Aberdeen
KŶ Zƚ Ϯϭϭ ũƵƐƚ ŝŶƐŝĚĞ ,ŽŬĞ ŽƵŶƚLJ͘ tŝƚŚ YƵĂŶƚŝĐŽ dĂĐƚŝĐĂů
Store Hours: dƵĞ Ͳ &ƌŝ͗ ϭϭĂŵ ʹ ϰƉŵ 910.637.0500 www.ProvenOutfitters.com
$499
DĂĚĞ ŝŶ E ͊
Polish Radom AK-47
$649
Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact
$449
tŝƚŚ >ŝŐŚƚ͊
ϯϴ͟ dĂĐƚŝĐĂů ZŝĨůĞ ĂƐĞ͗ ΨϮϬ
B3
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
obituaries Ben Jones, ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ actor and 2-term US House member, dies at 84 The N.C. native credited his iconic TV role with pulling him out of self-destruction
Erin Pritchett Adams Dec. 20, 1981 – Aug. 5, 2026 Erin Pritchett Adams, 44, of Raeford, North Carolina, passed away on August 5, 2026, following a courageous threeyear battle with stage 4 colon cancer. Born on December 20, 1981, and raised in the Hope Mills area, Erin dedicated her life to her family as a devoted housewife and deeply loving mother. She cherished all children, but above all, she lived for her own, leaving behind a legacy of fierce love and nurturing care. She was a devoted Christian strong in faith. Erin knew she would be going home to Jesus. Erin is survived by her beloved husband, Larry; her three treasured children, Grace, Abigail, and Samuel; her devoted parents, Gary (Papa) and Mavis (Meme) Pritchett; and her dear grandmother, Betty (Nanny) Ralston. Preceding her in death was her grandfather, James (Pop) Ralston. Services are entrusted to Crumpler Funeral Home.
Lynda Kay Dees Hendrix July 7, 1945 – Aug. 6, 2026 Lynda Kay Dees Hendrix, of Red Springs, formerly of Raeford, passed away on August 6, 2026, at the age of 81. She was born in New Hanover County, NC on July 07, 1945, to the late Lynn and Catherine Dees. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Samuel Brown Hendrix, Jr.; and her brother-inlaw, Donald King. Lynda enjoyed traveling in her motor home and being at the beach. She loved spending time with her granddaughters. She is survived by her son, Samuel Brown Hendrix, III “Sammy”, and his wife, Susan; her three granddaughters, Kayla Hendrix, Emily Hendrix, and Samantha Hendrix; and her sister, Ann D. King. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Sandy Grove Church, Hope Springs Assisted Living of Red Springs, and Hospice of Scotland County. A visitation will be held at Sandy Grove Church on Sunday, August 09, 2026, from 2:00-2:45 pm. A service will follow at 3:00 pm with Rev. Dr. Jimmy Dees officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery. Services are entrusted to Crumpler Funeral Home.
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in NSJ at obits@northstatejournal.com
By Jeffrey Collins The Associated Press BEN JONES, who played the good ol’ boy mechanic in “The Dukes of Hazzard” TV series and parlayed his fame into a political career and two terms in the U.S. House, has died. He was 84. Jones had a heart attack in his home Sunday in Washington, Virginia, as he was waiting to watch his beloved Atlanta Braves play baseball, his wife said on social media. Rappahannock County Sheriff Connie Compton confirmed his death. Jones’ fame came from his role as Cooter Davenport, the mechanic who got the Duke boys out of jams as they tried to do the right thing and fight the corrupt Boss Hogg in the fictional Hazzard County, Georgia. After playing Cooter for all seven seasons of the series from 1979 to 1985, Jones turned to politics and was elected to the U.S. House from a district near Atlanta in 1988. The Democrat served two terms before he was redistricted out of the seat. Jones was born in North Carolina and in college got involved in acting and civil rights, he wrote in his autobiography “Redneck Boy in the Promised Land: The Confessions of ‘Crazy Cooter.’” Acting took over his life. Jones performed in numerous stage productions and had a few minor TV and movie roles in Atlanta during the 1970s before his life-defining break came on a TV show Jones defended as a modern-day morality tale and a fine example of Southern values. For seven seasons, Jones was one of a small band of friends and family helping Bo and Luke Duke in “The Dukes of Hazzard.” The brothers were on probation for running
JOE HOLLOWAY JR. / AP PHOTO
Left, Cooter, actor Ben Jones, sits atop one of the 229 hotrods, named the General Lee, used in the show “Dukes of Hazzard” as ecstatic fan, Aliceson Johnson, of Charlottesville, Virginia, sits in the driver’s seat in front of his store in Sperryville, Virginia, in 1999. Above, Jones, then running for Congress, center, prepares to watch the Hawks-Pacers NBA game at the Omni Arena in 1988 in Atlanta. STEVE HELBER / AP PHOTO
ularity never waned. It went into syndication and later became of prominent fixture on cable’s The Nashville Network. Jones also credited the series with pulling him out of a self-destructive, alcoholic lifestyle that led to the failure of several marriages. “It was like being in a Beatles movie,” Jones said. “Our lives changed.” After “The Dukes of Hazzard,” Jones went into politics. He kept his aw-shucks personality but took the issues seriously. In his four years in Washington, Jones was known as a Democrat who could buck his party. He was liberal on social issues and conservative on economics. But even in politics, he made a splash. After losing in 1992 in his redrawn district, Jones ran for Congress again in 1994. He lost to Newt Gingrich in the elections that elevated the Republican to the Speaker’s Office. Jones would file an ethics complaint that Gingrich
used tax-deductible donations to fund his partisan college course, leading to a House reprimand and Gingrich’s decision to leave the body. Jones always embraced his role as Cooter. After moving to Virginia, he would open at least three “Cooter’s” country stores in Nashville and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and near his home. They sold plenty of T-shirts, key chains and insulated tumblers and included Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia, including one of the 300 or so General Lee cars used and abused in the TV series. The show and Cooter lived on because it was funny, had plenty of action and car chases and had a good, family-friendly heart, Jones told the Richmond Times-Dispatch at a 2001 car show where he played in a band, signed autographs and met fans. “The show reflects the values of the heartland of America. The good guys always win,” Jones said.
Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi’s father and longtime agent, dead at 68
2005 and went on to win eight Ballon d’Or awards. He led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title. “My dad was always by my side,” Lionel Messi said in a 2007 interview with Radio del Plata. “Sometimes I would lock myself in my room to cry when we arrived in Barcelona, or my dad would do the same without me seeing him, or thinking I didn’t see him. We pretended we were both OK, but we weren’t. My dad even asked me what I wanted to do when we were feeling down, if I wanted to stay or go back, and I wanted to stay, and he stayed with me.” His father negotiated the contracts with Barça and later his transfers to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami while also managing the use of his famous son’s image rights and his numerous investments in real estate, hotels and restaurants. In 2013, father and son were accused by a Spanish prosecutor of trying to conceal earnings from the player’s image rights. Jorge Messi paid more than than 5 million euros ($6.6 million) to cover alleged back taxes and interest. The president of Argentina’s soccer federation, Claudio Tapia, on Saturday issued a lengthy statement in which he recognized Jorge Messi “for having raised a person of values: humble, respectful, and deeply committed to others.” The organization ordered a moment of silence to be observed at all matches across all categories of Argentine soccer and mandated that players, referees and coaching staff wear black armbands.
“It was like being in a Beatles movie.” Ben Jones moonshine and were constantly trying to clear their names and stop the crooked and powerful Boss Hogg from stealing or cheating. The Duke boys drove a modified 1969 Dodge Charger called the General Lee with a Confederate flag on its roof. Cooter owned “Cooter’s Garage” in the town square. Nearly every episode involved a car chase with jumps and stunts and a patrol car badly in need of repairs. Cooter was often on the CB radio in his pickup truck saying, “Breaker one, Breaker one. I might be crazy but I ain’t dumb. Crazy Cooter coming at you.” “The Dukes of Hazzard” was a hit for CBS, and its pop-
The elder Messi guided his son’s career from a Barcelona youth academy to World Cup glory By Ramiro Barreiro The Associated Press MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay — Jorge Messi, the father of soccer star and Argentina captain Lionel Messi, died Saturday at a hospital in the central Argentina city of Rosario. He was 68. The Rosario-based Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys announced his death in a social media post that said he had undergone treatment in recent months for an unspecified illness. The post described him as “the pillar and the person who, with vision, rigor and affection, supported the career of the best player of all time, alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini.” The South American Football Confederation in a statement also offered its condolences “with respect and affection for Lionel.” Lionel Messi led Argentina to a runner-up finish in this year’s World Cup. In the team’s first match, against Algeria, he was visibly emotional after scoring the first of his three goals. He said later that he wept for “a reason unrelated to sports.” “I went through some dif-
ASHLEY LANDIS / AP PHOTO
Argentina’s Lionel Messi reacts after the World Cup final soccer match between Spain and Argentina in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 19. ficult, complicated days,” he said. “I am grateful to the delegation, to all my teammates, because they were always by my side wishing me strength so that I would be OK.” Media reports at the time outraged the Messi family, which days later released a statement confirming that “Jorge is experiencing a health issue,” without specifying the nature of his condition. “A person’s health and the peace of mind of their loved ones should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest,” said the statement, which also expressed “discomfort at the lack çof sensitivity, respect and scruples with which some people have
treated a strictly private and family matter.” Jorge Messi was a chemical technician and worked as a steelworker. He played soccer as a midfielder and reached the youth ranks of Newell’s Old Boys but had to abandon the sport to complete his mandatory military service in Argentina. He played a fundamental role in his third son’s career, serving as his agent and managing his business affairs. He was the one who traveled with a young Messi to Barcelona in the early 2000s for the trial that would open the doors to La Masia, the club’s youth academy. Lionel Messi made his professional debut in
B4
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
STATE & NATION
Watchdog for $46B tribal gambling industry can’t enforce law without chairperson The vacancy exposes the tribal gambling industry to emerging online prediction markets By Savannah Peters The Associated Press ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On opening day at the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma’s new Harrah’s-branded casino, the tribe’s chairman watched customers pack the gambling floor while a queue of cars spilled out of the parking lot. “We couldn’t let them in because we were so full,” Chairman Jacob Keyes said. “That’s a direct impact from the Harrah’s name.” But a vacancy in Washington is preventing the tribe’s partnership with the gambling giant from moving beyond branding. Plans for Harrah’s parent company to take over day-to-day management of the casino in Chandler, Oklahoma, stalled after it opened in April, because no one is at the helm of the federal commission that oversees tribal gambling. The last chairperson of the National Indian Gaming Commission stepped down from the role in January. President Donald Trump has not nominated anyone to fill the vacancy. Absent a chair, the commission is unable to perform some key responsibilities, like enforcing legal and safety violations, approving new tribal gambling laws and certifying management agreements between tribes and casino operators. Industry leaders say the agency’s inertia risks delaying business deals, weakening oversight and leaving tribes without a key advocate in Washington as they grapple with an emerging threat posed by online prediction markets. “At this crucial time, the (National Indian Gaming Commission) is operating with one arm tied behind its back,” said Jonodev Chaudhuri, a former NIGC chair from 2013 to 2019 and a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. “That’s a very precarious position for tribes and Indian gaming.” There’s a lot at stake for tribes that rely heavily on casino revenue to fund healthcare, housing, education and other vital services. Tribal gambling brought in a record $46 billion in 2025, nearly triple the annual casino revenue of gambling powerhouse Nevada. Commission’s core powers vested in chair With its Harrah’s contract stuck in limbo, the Iowa Tribe’s small government staff finds itself managing the 175,000-square-foot casino, a mammoth task it had intended to outsource. “It’s discouraging. We’re paying a fee and not getting the full value,” Keyes said.
BRITTANY BENDABOUT / AP PHOTO
A person plays a slot machine at Harrah’s Casino, owned by the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma, in Chandler, Oklahoma, on Aug. 5. Prediction markets emerge as new threat to tribal gaming
BRITTANY BENDABOUT / AP PHOTO
William Eary, a table games dealer at Harrah’s Casino, shuffles a deck of cards at the casino in Chandler, Oklahoma, on Aug. 5. The decision to outsource management was strategic: Harrah’s branding would bring in more business than existing staff could accommodate. Instead, staff has to balance management with other priorities like preparing tribal budgets and overseeing social programs, Keyes said. The three-member gaming commission was formed in 1988 to regulate casino-style gambling and promote economic development on tribal lands. Some 250 tribal governments across 29 states now operate 545 gambling facilities, the commission said. Under federal law, its enforcement powers are vested solely in the chairperson. Industry leaders say its inability to cite casinos for violating federal law or force the emergency closure of unsafe facilities is particularly troubling. In a typical year, the commis-
sion issues several citations to tribes for operating casinos on unauthorized lands, failing to submit required financial statements, misusing revenues and other violations. The commission’s last enforcement action was issued Jan. 12 — the same day acting chairperson Sharon Avery’s term expired. She remains on the commission. The commission declined an interview request and said in an emailed statement that tribal officials and its field staff provide “excellent regulation” amid the leadership gap. But Steven Light, an expert in tribal gambling law at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, said the lack of enforcement power could discourage investment in tribal gambling and slow business growth. “Markets function best when there’s stability and certainty around processes and rules,” Light said.
The commission vacancy comes as the popularity of online prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket explodes. Tribal leaders fear those platforms, which allow users to wager on the outcome of virtually any event, could violate their sovereignty and take a bite out of gambling revenue. “Every dollar generated by Indian gaming goes to fund healthcare for our people, education for our children, housing for our elders,” said David Bean, chairman of the Indian Gaming Association and a citizen of the Puyallup Tribe. At least eight tribes have sued prediction market platforms, alleging they accept bets from tribal lands and in states where tribes have exclusive gambling rights in violation of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which the gaming commission is tasked with enforcing. Prediction markets argue their users are engaging in futures trading, not gambling, and dispute claims that they are circumventing regulation. The commission chairperson typically serves as an advocate for the tribal gambling industry in Washington, according to former commissioners and staffers. Yet it’s been conspicuously silent while the federal government weighs how to regulate prediction markets, said Joe Valandra, the commission’s chief of staff from 2005 to 2007 and a citizen of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. James Siva, who leads the California Nations Indian Gaming Association and is vice
chairman of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, said the Trump administration’s support of and business ties to the prediction markets industry could explain why it hasn’t filled the vacancy. “These things are happening in conjunction with each other,” Siva said in April at a news conference with the Indian Gaming Association. “It is not a coincidence by any means.” Leadership gap spans two administrations The commission’s last Senate-confirmed chairperson termed out under former President Joe Biden without a successor in place. A White House spokesperson called the commission a “valued board” but did not say when a new nomination will be made. In April, Trump appointed Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland, a citizen of the Navajo Nation, to the commission. That’s raised questions about potential executive branch influence over an agency designed to be independent. “This crosses that threshold in an uncomfortable way,” said Shannon O’Loughlin, the commission’s chief of staff from 2015 to 2017 and a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Keyes said a crucial opportunity to develop his tribe’s economy hangs in the balance. He doesn’t see the commission vacancy as partisan play. “I don’t want to sound like sour grapes, but when have Native American issues ever been prioritized by the federal government?” he said.
[[Yä kknÊ
È··¸ä äȹºä äȹµä ȸµ½ä ä¾kk 855-910-AMMO
NCammunition.com
VOLUME 11 ISSUE 25 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 13, 2026 | MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM
SUBSCRIBE: 919-663-3232
MOORE COUNTY THE MOORE COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Flying high Pinecrest alum Taylor Miller skies the ball during the Sandhill Community College Flyers volleyball team’s annual alumni match on Saturday at The Hangar in Pinehurst.
DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL
WHAT’S HAPPENING Contiguous U.S. breaks record for hottest month ever, NOAA says The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says the contiguous United States set a record for its hottest month ever in July. Last month averaged 76.89 degrees Fahrenheit across the Lower 48 states, eclipsing the Dust Bowl’s July 1936 by an eighth of a degree. Although it was unusually cool in Alaska, hotter than normal conditions blanketed the Lower 48, with the most excessive heat in the Mountain West, Southwest, Northern Plains and Southeast. The biggest driver of the heat was at night. Nighttime lows, which are crucial for people and agriculture to recover from hot days, smashed the old record for hottest minimums by 0.7 degrees, the NOAA said.
U.S. existing homes fall 1.7% in July as record prices, high rates stifle would-be buyers Sales of previously occupied U.S. homes slowed again in July as record prices and the highest mortgage rates in more than a year prove to be an insurmountable hurdle for many prospective homebuyers. The National Association of Realtors said Tuesday that existing home sales fell 1.7% last month from June to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 4.06 million units. July sales, however, were up 0.7% over last year. Home prices continued to rise, hitting unprecedented levels for July. The U.S. median sales price increased 2% from a year earlier, to $434,100.
$2.00
Board of Education to reduce meetings Starting in September, the MCS Board of Education will meet once a month By Ryan Henkel North State Journal CARTHAGE — The Moore County Schools Board of Education will be going from two to one meetings a month starting in September. At the board’s Aug. 10 meeting, the board unanimously approved the change, which is intended to give more time back to the district’s central office leadership. “One of our goals is to get our senior staff members who supervise schools back into schools more often,” said Superintendent Jenny Purvis.
“Therefore, we’d like to ensure that we meet once a month as a board. This will allow staff to focus instead on work in schools and moving our students forward.” “I’ve been advocating for this for five years,” said board member David Hensley. “It’s just good governance. It’s a waste of people’s time to have all these meetings. Staff time can be better spent. There’s a million good reasons to do this and I’m just jumping out of my skin for it.” The meetings will be held on the second Monday of the month, with the regular business portion set to routinely start at 5:30 p.m. The item was initially on the agenda as a consent item, but Hensley had it removed from the consent agenda and placed as an action item so that the
“It’s a waste of people’s time to have all these meetings. Staff time can be better spent.” David Hensley, board member board could more openly discuss it. “This is a major movement and we’re not even giving the public a chance to speak,” Hensley said. “We’re cutting your meetings in half, which I support, but nobody can even step up to that microphone and voice support for or against it because it was on the consent agenda. I just generally think that some things we should just have on the actual agenda so
Trump officials propose new scrutiny of food ingredients The rule would close a decades-old loophole allowing companies to self-approve food additives By Matthew Perrone The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. health officials on Monday proposed a rule change that would require food manufacturers to notify regulators before introducing new ingredients or additives into processed or packaged foods. The proposal would change a decades-old policy that advocates have called a regulatory loophole, blaming it for allowing thousands of unvetted ingredients into the U.S. food supply. Under the proposed rule from the Food and Drug Administration, companies
“Shifting to a mandatory notification system closes a decades-old information gap, giving the FDA the comprehensive visibility needed to enhance postmarket safety.” Kyle Diamantas, acting FDA commissioner would have to document and submit their safety findings for new ingredients, giving regulators the opportunity to investigate if they see a potential safety risk. Currently, companies can decide for themselves if an ingredient or additive is “generally recognized as safe,” and there is no requirement
for companies to notify or submit evidence to the FDA, although some do. “Shifting to a mandatory notification system closes a decades-old information gap, giving the FDA the comprehensive visibility needed to enhance postmarket safety,” acting FDA Commissioner Kyle Diamantas told reporters Monday. The FDA will take comments on the proposal for 120 days. Government scrutiny of ultraprocessed food continues, but with few details In a separate move, the FDA said it completed work on the federal government’s first definition of ultraprocessed food but did not release any details or the proposed language. The agency said it has submit-
that the people who attend and the public can hear about it because it’s that important.” In addition, the board approved a variety of consent agenda items as well, namely a $200,0000 grant award from the Moore County Charitable Foundation for Aberdeen Elementary to fund a position for a Refocus and Behavior Academy which will serve 90 students a week for the next three years and an increase to bus driver compensation, raising the base pay to $20 an hour. “Last year, we began the year with 70 drivers and this year we’re beginning with 58,” Purvis said. So this bus driver compensation is in an effort to increase the number of drivers.” The Moore County Schools Board of Education will next meet Sept. 14.
ted the definition to the White House for further review. Health advocates consider an official definition of ultraprocessed food a key step toward bringing greater scrutiny to packaged foods that are blamed for multiple chronic health problems afflicting Americans. A government-backed definition could pave the way for more federal research and, eventually, possible labeling or other restrictions on processed foods. Neither of Monday’s announcements are likely to immediately impact American diets, which are packed with fats, sodium and sugar and are blamed for a host of chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease. But both initiatives are considered top priorities for Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who entered government vowing to crack down on artificial colors, additives and other ingredients. Ultraprocessed foods are made using industrial processing and additives, colors, preservatives or other ingredients See FOOD, page A2
A2
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
THURSDAY
8.13.26
“Join the conversation”
Trump announces staff secretary Scharf will be new White House counsel The timing comes ahead of midterm elections where Democrats have promised investigations
The Associated Press 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
WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump announced Sunday that his new White House counsel will be Will Scharf, the staff secretary who as the Trump-appointed head of the National Capital Planning Commission helped secure approval for the $400 million ballroom project. Trump said, beginning Sept. 1, Scharf will be replacing David Warrington, who will be leaving the administration to join the private sector. Trump noted that Scharf previously served as a federal prosecutor and represented him in a number of cases, including at the Supreme Court. “Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart! He also loves our Country, and respects the Law,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Will Scharf will do a great job as White House Counsel!” The shakeup in the White House counsel’s office comes at a critical juncture — just months ahead of the midterm elections, where Trump’s Republican Party will be fighting to hold on to control of Congress. Democrats have vowed to pursue investigations into
“Will is Tough, Strong, and Smart! He also loves our Country, and respects the Law.” President Donald Trump Trump and his administration if they are successful in November. The White House counsel’s job is to advise on legal and policy questions related to the presidency. The office is the primary White House contact for the Justice Department, and it handles presidential pardons, works on judicial appointments and reviews legislation. The office also helps investigate and manage congressional investigations into the administration and lawsuits against the president when he is sued in his official capacity. During Trump’s first term, Scharf worked to get judges and justices confirmed for him. They included U.S. Supreme Court Justices Brett Kavanaugh — who himself served as White House staff secretary for President George W. Bush — and Amy Coney Barrett. In the period when Trump was out of office, Scharf joined his legal team in October 2023 and was one of his lawyers in the election interference case brought by special counsel
Jack Smith. The case went before the Supreme Court, which ruled that presidents enjoy sweeping immunity from criminal prosecution for official acts. Scharf is among several of Trump’s lawyers who have been rewarded with spots in his second administration. Todd Blanche, who represented Trump during the Republican’s hush money trial in New York, was confirmed last week as attorney general. As White House staff secretary, Scharf was responsible for managing the papers that cross the president’s desk. He is at Trump’s side when the president signs executive orders and often provides running narration on what Trump is signing. Trump in July 2025 named Scharf as chair of the National Capital Planning Commission, the executive branch agency with jurisdiction over construction and major renovations to government buildings in the region. Trump’s ballroom won final approval from the NCPC in April, though a divided federal appeals court ruled last Friday that construction on the project must stop because Congress had not approved it. Trump has vowed to appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court. The project is already well on its way and has begun to rise above ground on the east side of the White House.
moore
happening Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County:
Aug. 14 Sedgefield at the Park “C” 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Horse show; the public is encouraged to attend. Free admission. Carolina Horse Park 2814 Montrose Road Raeford
America 250 Forging a Nation Exhibit A new exhibit exploring the Old North State’s role in the fight for independence. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Weymouth Center for the Arts & Humanities 555 E. Connecticut Ave. Southern Pines
August Fridays in the Village of Pinehurst 2026 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Pop-up sales and events happening across the village invite visitors to explore the cultural, shopping and dining scene.
CRIME LOG Aug. 3 • Leah Grace Wittmer, 20, of Pinehurst, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for domestic violence. • Andrew Anthony Inserillo, 40, of Cary, was arrested by MCSO for violating a domestic violence protection order. • Raymond Thomas Walker, 38, of Carthage, was arrested by MCSO for failing to inform of new changes to online identifiers as a sex offender. Aug. 4 • Corey Leighton Campbell, 21, of West End, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for simple assault. • Thomas Steven Garner, 43, of Eagle Springs, was arrested by MCSO for misuse of the 911 system. • Curtis Chase Hinshaw, 21, of Asheboro, was arrested by Pinehurst PD for attempted breaking or entering a building. • Ann Marie Hopkins, 41, of Southern Pines, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for felony larceny, possession of stolen goods or property and conspiracy to commit felony larceny. Aug. 5 • Luis Alonzo Amaya Guerra, 20, of Marshville, was arrested by MCSO for driving on a revoked license, reckless driving to endanger and speeding, and other charges. • Vincent Earl McRae, 38, of Aberdeen, was arrested by MCSO for trafficking in heroin by possession, possession with intent to sell or deliver methamphetamine and possession with intent to sell or deliver oxycodone, and other charges. • Charles Ray Prince, 66, of Robbins, was arrested by MCSO for possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. Aug. 6 • Dustin Gerard Euston, 37, of Moore County, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for simple possession of a controlled substance, misdemeanor larceny and possession of marijuana greater than 1/2 ounce to 1 1/2 ounces, and other charges. • Davey Rand Simmerman, 46, of Candor, was arrested by Foxfire PD for possession of a firearm by a felon, carrying a concealed gun and simple possession of a controlled substance. • Joseph Bayse Thornton, 35, of Southern Pines, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for soliciting a child by computer. Aug. 7 • Tripp Laroy Cole, 21, of West End, was arrested by MCSO for malicious use of an explosive causing injury, assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury and possession of a weapon of mass destruction. • Christopher Michael Siebec, 35, of Southern Pines, was arrested by NCHP for driving while impaired, reckless driving with wanton disregard and possession of an open container of alcohol in the passenger area, and other charges.
ALEX BRANDON / AP PHOTO
White House staff secretary Will Scharf, left, hands President Donald Trump an executive order to sign in the Oval Office on Sept. 5, 2025.
FOOD from page A1 not found in home kitchens. The foods include sugary cereals, sodas, chips, frozen pizzas and other grocery items. Scientists have been working to define and classify processed foods for well over a decade. But sweeping definitions come with downsides. They can be often applied to foods like whole grain bread, yogurt and granola that are all highly processed but still considered nutritious. Some recent efforts to define ultraprocessed foods include carve-outs for foods that meet nutrition standards despite having processed ingredients. FDA proposal would bring new insights on additives used by food companies In the U.S., an estimated 10,000 additives are allowed in food, including thickeners, preservatives and packaging ingredients. Consumer advocates have long argued that many of those ingredients have never been properly vetted because of the FDA’s policy allowing manufacturers to certify for
themselves that new additives are “generally recognized as safe,” or GRAS. The FDA’s Diamantas stressed Monday that the new policy would not require all new ingredients to undergo FDA review. He said that type of mandatory review would need to be enacted by Congress in order to rewrite FDA’s authority over the food supply. “What we’re doing is requiring companies that utilize the pathway to notify us of their conclusions so that we have greater visibility into those conclusions and consumers have awareness,” Diamantas said. Under the proposal, the FDA would be expected to review new ingredient submission within 180 days. If FDA regulators have safety concerns, they could request additional information from manufacturers or request that they delay introducing the ingredient. Rule change in 1990s created so-called loophole Any substance intentionally added to food is supposed to undergo formal review — unless the additive
is considered safe. Since the late 1950s, the government recognized that many common ingredients in foods, such as spices and vinegar, were widely consumed and understood to be safe for consumption. The FDA policed the GRAS exemption for years, but it took time and resources. Starting in 1997, the FDA began allowing companies to independently determine that a new additive is safe based on publicly available scientific evidence and the consensus of qualified experts. However, the list of products deemed GRAS by companies grew to include many synthetic and natural additives, all incorporated into the food supply without independent review. The process has created a “secret GRAS loophole,” according to the consumer advocacy group Center for Science in the Public Interest, that “undermines the integrity of our food safety system.” Food industry officials contend their internal reviews of additives are as rigorous as the FDA’s own processes.
Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: moorecommunity@ northstatejournal.com Weekly deadline is Monday at noon
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
A3
THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES
COLUMN | SUSAN ESTRICH
The hard lesson for AIPAC
The message to other candidates is clear: AIPAC money comes with a price.
THERE ARE PLENTY of explanations for what happened in the Michigan Senate Democratic primary, where Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, a progressive, was declared the victor over Rep. Haley Stevens, a moderate, by a razor-thin margin of 1%. For starters, he was the outsider, a former public health official talking about the fundamental economic issues, while she was Sen. Chuck Schumer’s second choice (after Gov. Gretchen Whitmer) for the seat. He was, according to observers, the better communicator, the better orator, connecting on issues of affordability while she was expounding on her love for Michigan. He worked harder. He started campaigning well over a year ago and did some 500 public events against a candidate who stayed mostly out of the public eye and dodged tough questions. And the polls were wrong, as usual. The polls were projecting a double-digit El-Sayed victory. That didn’t happen. It turned into a cliffhanger, and El-Sayed only won by a razor-thin margin. So in that sense, as is always true of very close races, anything could have made the difference. But there are certain facts coming out of Michigan that cannot be denied. Stevens was supported by some $60 million in outside money, including more than $30 million from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. That’s AIPAC, for short, the pro-Israel lobby that used to wield enormous clout in Washington and in national politics. Her extraordinary support from AIPAC became an issue in the campaign, as did her opponent’s stance on Israel. El-Sayed is the sort of candidate AIPAC exists to defeat. He believes that Israel committed genocide in Gaza. He has pledged to cut U.S. military aid to Israel. And, according to The New
York Times, he has said he does not believe Israel should exist as an explicitly Jewish state. Throughout the campaign, El-Sayed attacked Stevens for her pro-Israel position and said he hoped to go to Washington to influence policy on Israel, especially among the party’s 2028 hopefuls. AIPAC spent more money, according to the Times, trying to beat El-Sayed than any outside group has in a primary this year. They put more than $30 million on the scale and became a much-debated issue in the campaign for doing so. The message to other candidates is clear: AIPAC money comes with a price. Did it hurt Stevens more than it helped her? While apologists for AIPAC may spin that even with prevailing winds against them, they almost pulled it off, the fact of the matter is that they didn’t pull it off. They lost. A few years ago, there would have been no place in the Democratic Party for a candidate like El-Sayed. His views on Palestine would have been unacceptable. He would not have been given a speaking role at a convention. As I write this, the party is unifying behind him to give him a speaking and voting role in the U.S. Senate. As the polls have measured, accurately, public opinion on Israel has shifted dramatically, and negatively. Some of us continue, albeit with difficulty, to draw a line between our support for Israel and our opposition to its current government, but most people don’t. They don’t view Israel through the Holocaust-tinged glasses of my generation. We know this. AIPAC has to know this. The lesson of Michigan cannot be that they just needed a little more money. The message is not working. Susan Estrich is a lawyer, professor, author and political commentator. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)
COLUMN | LARRY ELDER
AI cannot give writers something to say
Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed.
AFTER NEARLY 35 YEARS as a talk show host, I’ve had many young broadcasters ask me, “What’s the secret?” My answer always surprises them because it’s so short. “Have something to say.” Most expect advice about voice, pacing, interview techniques, social media or how to handle callers. Those things matter. But they’re secondary. If you don’t have an interesting idea, no amount of polish will keep an audience listening. The audience may admire your delivery for a while, but eventually it wants substance. It wants a reason to come back tomorrow. The same principle applies to writing. Someone once asked me, “What makes a good writer?” My answer was the same: “Having something to say.” Good grammar helps. A large vocabulary helps. A clever turn of phrase helps. But readers don’t return because of sentence structure. They return because the writer consistently offers an insight, an argument or an observation they had not considered before. The style attracts attention. The ideas keep it. That’s one reason the rise of artificial intelligence doesn’t worry me nearly as much as it worries some people. AI can make a sentence cleaner. It can tighten a paragraph. It can suggest a better headline, organize research and identify weaknesses in an argument. It can save a substantial amount of time in tracking down sources. Those are remarkable tools. But recently, a judge blasted an attorney whose legal brief cited cases that were either nonexistent or did not support the proposition for which they were cited. Blind and lazy reliance on AI was the likely culprit. But AI cannot live your life for you. It cannot accumulate your experiences, your failures, your successes, your conversations or your observations. Those experiences are the bone marrow from which ideas are formed. AI can help you communicate an idea more effectively, but it cannot give you a lifetime from which original ideas are born. The same lesson appears in coaching. NFL coach Bum Phillips once paid Hall of Fame coach Don Shula perhaps the greatest compliment one coach has ever paid another: “He can take his’n and beat your’n. And your’n and beat his’n.” In other words, if Shula had the better team, he would beat you. But if you had the
better team, he might beat you anyway. Phillips was saying that great coaches first maximize their advantages. Then, every so often, they overcome their disadvantages. When I practiced law, I came to a similar conclusion about trial lawyers. A good trial lawyer wins all the cases he should — and a few he shouldn’t. He doesn’t lose the cases he should win through poor preparation or weak advocacy. Then, once in a while, through judgment, preparation and persuasion, he wins a case the facts and the law suggest he would lose. The exceptional performer first masters the fundamentals. Only then can he elevate his craft. In broadcasting, they ask about microphones instead of ideas. In writing, they ask about style instead of substance. In coaching, they ask about strategy instead of talent. In law, they ask about courtroom theatrics instead of judgment. The essentials come first. Everything else is an enhancement. Technology can improve prose, summarize documents and organize research in seconds. Those advances are valuable, even remarkable, but none answers the question that matters most: What do you actually think? If you have nothing worth saying, technology won’t rescue you. If you do have something worth saying, technology becomes a force multiplier, enabling you to communicate more clearly and more efficiently. Despite all the technological changes during my career — from computers and the internet to radio and podcasts and now to artificial intelligence — the secret remains the same. It applies to writing a column, hosting a radio show, giving a speech or leading a meeting. People still hunger for fresh ideas, honest observations and genuine insight. They still appreciate someone who can make sense of confusing events or articulate what others struggle to say. After all these years behind a microphone, through changing technologies and changing media, my answer remains the same. Every profession has an indispensable first principle. Miss it, and no amount of technique will save you. Have something to say. Larry Elder is an author and nationally syndicated radio talk show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com.)
A4
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
As AI grips world, thrill of collecting vintage computers grows
Gates to incorporate the technologies in their early products. Dersch’s exhibit featured a fully functioning Xerox Alto workstation with its boxy vertical monitor, chunky keyboard and mouse, as well as pizza-sized spinning disks that store tiny amounts of data by modern standards. “It’s fun to share what I’ve done with people. It’s fun to share in what other people have done,” Dersch said. “Also, there’s a consignment area where I can buy more junk to take home with me, so that’s always fun.” Klein, a Silicon Valley software engineering manager, was a passionate collector until his hobby overwhelmed his home and family life. He had as many as 150 computer systems — complete with accessories, documents and packaging — crammed into his closets and garage. He said his beloved collection had become an “albatross,” and he worried about burdening his family. So he started selling and giving away his machines until he only had a few favorites left at home.
Collectors worldwide are preserving older hardware that pioneered the digital age By Terry Chea The Associated Press MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. — Software engineer Josh Dersch loves old computers. He spends countless hours tinkering in his garage, trying to coax decades-old machines back to life. He estimates he owns more than 200 vintage computers and devices in his Seattle home. “It’s always been fascinating to me to see the origins of things,” Dersch said. “It’s a fun challenge to debug and repair. You can understand the entire system from top to bottom.” Dersch is part of a growing community of vintage computer collectors who are preserving the classic machines that helped launch the digital revolution. While Silicon Valley has since moved on to shaping the future of artificial intelligence, these hardware enthusiasts are intent on saving the Atari, Commodore and IBM machines that are ancestors to today’s laptops, wearable devices and smart phones. Where others see junk, people like Dersch see artifacts of computer history that are worthy of attention and respect. They delight in hearing the beeps and chimes of their childhood and firing up a low-def game of “Pong” or “Space Invaders.” “The enthusiasm for the history of computers and all the stuff around it is growing,” said Erik Klein, president of the Vintage Computer Federation, which organizes an annual festival at the Computer History Museum in Mountain View in the heart of Silicon Valley. Vintage computer festivals bring collectors together This year, more than 3,500 people attended the two-day Vintage Computer Festival in early August that celebrat-
Software engineer Josh Dersch, standing, shows a 1970s Xerox Alto computer he restored at the Vintage Computer Festival in Mountain View, California, on Sunday. — the company’s first product — can fetch hundreds of thousands of dollars. Collectors exhibited the computer systems that they have painstakingly restored to their original working condition, allowing attendees to play with the computers built long before the internet, social media and AI transformed the world. Restoring “grandfather of the modern computer”
Arion Paylo repairs a circuit board at the Vintage Computer Festival on Sunday. ed the 50th anniversary of Apple, founded in 1976 in nearby Cupertino, California. It featured a panel with co-founders Steve Wozniak and Ronald Wayne reminiscing about the company’s early days as a scrappy startup led by the late Steve Jobs.
More than a dozen such gatherings have since sprung up in cities across North America, South America and Europe. Growing interest is reflected in more demand for vintage computers in online marketplaces, Klein said. Rare, iconic computers like the Apple-1
Dersch drove down from Seattle to showcase the pride of his collection: the Xerox Alto. He spent years restoring what’s considered “the grandfather of the modern computer,” which was developed at the pioneering Xerox Palo Alto Research Center in the 1970s. The Alto was one of the earliest computers to move beyond text on screen and use the mouse and graphical user interface — such as windows, icons and cursors — that became the industry standard. The model famously inspired Jobs and Bill
Similar events for collectors spread around world Now Klein channels his passion for vintage computers into organizing festivals, repair workshops, swap meets and other events as president of the Vintage Computer Federation. “So it’s really about evangelizing that history and evangelizing this hobby of maintaining, collecting and enjoying this vintage technology,” Klein said. Sellam Ismail is thrilled to see the collector community develop and mature since he organized the first festival in 1997, drawing about 150 hobbyists to a venue east of San Francisco. He ran the events for a decade. He later co-founded the Vintage Computer Federation, which runs festivals in the U.S. and Canada. He’s helped other groups launch similar festivals in Argentina, Germany and Switzerland. “The community grew up. More and more people started getting old computers, started collecting them,” said Ismail, who once had a massive collection he stored in a warehouse. “Next year is the 30th anniversary. And I expect this to continue and grow even bigger.” Left, a 1981 Commodore SP9000 “Super PET” computer and floppy disk drives are displayed. Right, Attendees play on Apple Macintosh computers from the 1980s.
PHOTOS BY TERRY CHEA / AP PHOTO
Blazer 9mm Magpul Ever wish you had a 115gr, FMJ Brass Cased
PMAGs
$299/case 10 for $90 Žƌ Ψϭϲͬ Ždž
local store which has The Best Prices on Cases of Ammo? The best selection of factory standard capacity magazines? An AWESOME selection of Modern Sporting Weapons from Leading Manufactures Like, Sig, FN, S&W, etc? Flamethrowers & Gatlin Guns? All at better than on-line prices?
You Do! Del-Ton M4 tŝƚŚ &Ƶůů >ĞŶŐƚŚ ZĂŝů͊
9796 Aberdeen Rd, Aberdeen
KŶ Zƚ Ϯϭϭ ũƵƐƚ ŝŶƐŝĚĞ ,ŽŬĞ ŽƵŶƚLJ͘ tŝƚŚ YƵĂŶƚŝĐŽ dĂĐƚŝĐĂů
Store Hours: dƵĞ Ͳ &ƌŝ͗ ϭϭĂŵ ʹ ϰƉŵ 910.637.0500 www.ProvenOutfitters.com
$499
DĂĚĞ ŝŶ E ͊
Polish Radom AK-47
$649
Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Compact
$449
tŝƚŚ >ŝŐŚƚ͊
ϯϴ͟ dĂĐƚŝĐĂů ZŝĨůĞ ĂƐĞ͗ ΨϮϬ
MOORE SPORTS Linemen pay price for success with selfless work ethic No football team can win big without efficient work by its unsung heroes By Michael Jaenicke North State Journal FORMER LINEMAN and current high school head coach Tim Grady frequently tells his running backs, “Go ahead and try to do it without an O-line.” Another assistant coach in the state, Jeremy Joyner, takes the duties and responsibilities a step further, coming short of calling linemen “Protectors of the Universe.” “It’s the only job in sports that the sole responsibility is to protect everyone else,” Joyner said. Assistant coach and ex-lineman Brad Rhodes says linemen, “must be selfless individuals.” In other words, it’s all guts and little personal glory. That is just part of what makes linemen special. And before this goes further, let’s dismiss the thought that linemen are just fat and lazy players. It’s as far from the truth as it can be, says Jacksonville offensive coordinator Pat Byrd, who said “linemen are the smartest players on the team.” Part of that is because linemen are more into the mental aspect of the game than meets the surface. Playbook proficient players Most coaches agree that linemen must not just know what to do during a given play but also know the roles of every other player on his side of the ball while reading the tendencies and focus of a defense. “Because of that, we tend to make our assignments and calls as simple as possible for them,” Rhodes said. And linemen must be physically prepared. “They must be in shape, and weight training is also mandatory,” Grady said. “They carry 50 more pounds (than other players), and we ask them to go nearly every down on both sides of the ball all night long. You have to be conditioned to take that kind of hitting and running. It takes its toll after two or three quarters.” And size is not the final word
ATHLETE OF THE WEEK
Taylor Miller
DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Pinecrest’s offensive line gets into position prior to last season. on a player. In fact, there’s more technique than most fans can imagine. “It’s much more than just running,” Joyner said. “You have to know the fundamentals. If not, you will get beat often by someone you should beat nearly every time. It’s about good footwork and knowing what you are doing. Big bodies fall when players don’t have the fundamentals down. “But think about it. Every play you are delivering punishment, and that’s a lot over the course of a game.” Unity, solidarity in trenches Linemen must also be a unit of brothers. “Five guys, at least, must be on one accord,” Grady said. “The successful ones look at how a defense is denting us instead of it’s nothing but raw strength and want-to.” Smaller schools usually have smaller than average linemen (5-foot-9 to 6-foot-1 and 185 to 225 pounds) but often run the ball effectively against much larger lines. Bigger classifications require more height and beef (6-1 to 6-3 and 250 to 300 and more pounds). That’s normally the size colleges expect from incoming players. Last year, Jordan-Matthews had one player listed above 300 pounds and two more at 295. Four Seaforth players are listed above 250 on this year’s team. They are 4A and 5A, respectively. Meanwhile, 8A schools in the Triangle area like Durham Jordan and Raleigh’s Leesville Road can start players that size at all five spots on the line, with plenty more ready to step in as subs.
Linemen make or break a team, and they often carry the spirit of a team. “It’s not about glory because no one is tracking pancake blocks,” Rhodes said. “If an NFL defensive player makes one sack a game, he’s going to be an All-Pro. But if an offensive lineman gives up even a few sacks, he’s going to be dropped.” There’s a brotherhood of linemen. “It’s a blue-collar job, and here we don’t have to sell them on it because they humbly work for the team,” Grady said. “It’s a very humbling role, so having the right players there and having them play together is what it’s all about.” Joyner agrees. “They’re really some of the best kids to coach because it’s not about them,” he said. “It’s one unit, and though you can have a standout player or big physical guy, if the line is not cohesive everything else is for naught.” DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL
Center play critical Kevin Motsinger, an offensive coordinator and O-line coach, said the action begins in the middle of the field and matriculates outward. “Center is the most important position on the field because nothing happens until he gets the ball to the quarterback,” he said. Motsinger went on to say communication and interaction at the line is his favorite part of football. “It’s like an arts performance to me,” he said. “And let me say this: Our success will be 100% on our offensive and defensive lines.”
Sandhills Community College, volleyball Taylor Miller is a 2025 graduate of Pinecrest, where she played volleyball for the Patriots, earning all-conference honors and being named to the AVCA Best and Brightest third team. She won conference championships all three years on the Pinecrest varsity, going 64-20 over her time. Miller is now in her second year playing for Sandhills Community College. Last year, she was third on the Flyers in kills and points and second in total attacks. She’s joined on this year’s team by redshirt freshman Emma Clark, another Pinecrest graduate.
Gibbs holds on to win NASCAR Cup Series race at Iowa Speedway Clever pit strategy gave Joe Gibbs’ grandson his second career win By John Bohnenkamp The Associated Press NEWTON, Iowa — Ty Gibbs didn’t question his crew chief’s final pit call. “I can’t do anything about it, so you just run with it,” Gibbs said. Gibbs used late pit strategy and held off Joe Gibbs Racing teammate Christopher Bell over the final 20 laps to win the NASCAR Cup Series race Sunday at Iowa Speedway. Gibbs — the 23-year-old grandson of former NFL coaching great and NASCAR team owner Joe Gibbs — won by 0.253 seconds over Bell for his second victory of the season and his career. Gibbs and Bell each pitted with 60 laps remaining in the 350-lap race, but while Bell took
four tires, Gibbs just went with two right-side tires and came out ahead. And when leader Ross Chastain pitted on Lap 330, Gibbs took over the top spot and fought off a late charge by Bell. Tyler Allen, Gibbs’ crew chief, thought taking two tires was the only chance to get ahead of Bell in that final pit cycle. “We knew after practice the left sides weren’t wearing much and they tended to refire OK,” Allen said. “So in terms of coming into the race, it was definitely a viable option.” Gibbs liked the aggressive call. “I think in the position with our points situation, for sure,” he said. Gibbs, who picked up his first career win April 12 at Bristol, came into the race ranked fourth in the season standings and moved into second — 103 points behind JGR teammate Denny Hamlin. Gibbs, who had an issue in the pits on his first stop of the day when his jack fell too early
CHARLIE NEIBERGALL / AP PHOTO
Ty Gibbs, right, celebrates after winning Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Newton, Iowa. during the tire change, fell back to 28th before charging back. “You’re kind of hosed after that deal,” Gibbs said. “So you’ve got to stay locked in and keep working.” It was the seventh second-place finish of the season for Bell, who led 108 laps. “Ty did a really good job,” Bell said. “He did a great job of managing the race.” Pole-sitter Ryan Blaney, who won the inaugural 2024 Cup Series race at the 0.875-mile oval, was third after leading a race-high 129 laps. Josh Berry finished fourth. It
was Berry’s best finish of the season and only his third top-10 finish. Hamlin finished fifth. Chase Briscoe was sixth. Chastain recovered to finish seventh. AJ Allmendinger was eighth, followed by defending race winner William Byron. Austin Dillon was 10th. Reddick’s struggles Tyler Reddick’s summer struggles continued when he crashed into Erik Jones four laps into the race. The rear end of Reddick’s car slid entering Turn 1, and Reddick
ran into Jones before hitting the wall. Reddick finished last in the 36-car field. “One-hundred percent that was on me,” Reddick said. “It’s something I don’t normally do, make those kinds of mistakes. Just gut-wrenching on a lot of levels. I thought we kind of figured out what we needed to do for the race today and made a killer mistake earlier.” Reddick won the first three races of the season and four of the first six, and he has five wins overall. But he has had four finishes of 30th place or worse in the last six races.
B2 SIDELINE REPORT NASCAR
NASCAR’s exhibition Clash returning to Daytona Daytona Beach, Fla. NASCAR’s exhibition Clash is returning to Daytona International Speedway for the first time in six years. The race will be Feb. 13, 2027. It doesn’t count for points and is the lead-up to the seasonopening Daytona 500 on Feb. 21. Daytona hosted the Clash from 1979 to 2021. It was moved to Los Angeles Memorial Stadium for three years and then relocated to tiny Bowman Gray Stadium in Winston-Salem the last two years in a return to NASCAR’s grassroots racing.
NFL
Bears add experience to secondary by signing safety Woods Chicago The Chicago Bears added significant experience to their secondary by signing safety Xavier Woods. Woods has started in 121 games in nine NFL seasons. The Bears placed defensive back Dallis Flowers on injured reserve following an injury to his right leg. The 31-year-old Woods has 15 career interceptions, including two in 11 games for Tennessee last season. He had 39 tackles for the Titans. Woods played his first four seasons with Dallas, where he started 48 of 60 games. He also has played for Minnesota and Carolina.
SOCCER
Australia grants citizenship to pair of Iranian women’s soccer players Melbourne, Australia Two Iranian women soccer players who sought asylum in Australia have been granted citizenship. Fatemeh Pasandideh and Atefeh Ramezanisadeh said they were sworn in by Immigration Minister Tony Burke in Brisbane. Friends and supporters from the local Iranian community attended the ceremony. The Refugee Council of Australia noted that citizenship usually requires four years on a valid visa. The women joined Brisbane Roar after Iran withdrew from the Women’s Asia Cup hosted by Australia.
NBA
Memphis forward Clarke died from effects of heroin, cocaine Los Angeles Authorities have determined Memphis Grizzlies forward Brandon Clarke died in May from the effects of heroin and cocaine. The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner said the 29-year-old basketball player’s death was accidental. Clarke was found dead inside a home near Los Angeles on May 11. Drug paraphernalia was reportedly found at the residence. Clarke was under contract to be with the Grizzlies through the 2026-27 season.
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
Trading Rutschman could help Orioles, but move shows how badly team’s plans went awry The former first overall pick was dealt to a division rival By Noah Trister The Associated Press SEVEN YEARS after drafting Adley Rutschman with the top overall pick, Orioles president Mike Elias traded the All-Star catcher to division rival Boston. In the interim, Baltimore managed one division title and one wild card before falling under .500. So Elias was asked point blank why fans should believe he’s the man to guide the team to future success. “While the last couple of years have really felt like a step back, and have been a step back from where this team was in 2023 and 2024, we have so many good players in this organization,” he said. “We have so many things going for us in this organization in terms of the strength and the infrastructure, the business side of the operation, the ownership, the facilities. We now have a top farm system, and we have a great roster with a lot of really good players that are signed up for many years. And we have a lot of things going for us right now.” The trade may work out for the Orioles in the long run. They acquired three of Boston’s top five prospects. Fans generally understand the logic of dealing a player who might leave as a free agent. But what makes this trade harder to stomach is the year and a half of failure that led up to it. In 2023, the Orioles won 101 games. Rutschman and infielder Gunnar Henderson were franchise cornerstones, and there were several more top prospects on the way. The assumption was there would be a lot more winning. Instead, the Orioles are in danger of missing the playoffs for a second straight season. “The last couple seasons have not gone to plan. There have been shortcomings, and ultimately those are my responsibility,” Elias said. “But
CAROLYN KASTER / AP PHOTO
Baltimore Orioles pitcher Kyle Bradish, left, and catcher Adley Rutschman, right, talk during a game last month. this is a very hard game, we cannot succeed all the time, and we must keep going when things aren’t going our way.” Elias did not sound like a man whose job was in jeopardy. If Elias felt he needed to produce a playoff team this year, he could have kept Rutschman and even added help. There were reasons to trade him, though. Baltimore has catcher Samuel Basallo, who is signed long term and is seven years younger than Rutschman. This type of deal — using a surplus at a key position to acquire help elsewhere — is something the Orioles could perhaps have used more of a few years ago, when they had a wealth of hitting in the majors and minors but needed pitching. Once again, the Orioles have to sell their fans on minor league prospects. The last collection of young talent hasn’t totally delivered on its promise. Rutschman had a down year in 2025, and Henderson is having one this year. Jack-
“We have a lot of things going for us right now.” Mike Elias, Orioles president son Holliday, Colton Cowser and Coby Mayo have all had struggles at the plate. Pitcher Grayson Rodriguez couldn’t stay healthy and was ultimately traded for outfielder Taylor Ward. (Ward, a pending free agent, was also dealt away.) When Elias arrived in November 2018, a rebuild was already underway after the team lost 115 games that year. “We had a lot of work to do around the org. We did it, and for a period of time there — we won a hundred games in 2023 — we had a consensus farm system and a core that looked like it was in a tremendous spot, in a really historically strong spot,” Elias said. “I think to some degree I personally, looking back, got caught up in a narrative about a rebuild. Baseball’s very hum-
bling, and it doesn’t go linearly, and things shifted and changed, and we had a lot of bad luck on the injury front. We had a lot of injuries, and we had regression and things that changed course.” It’s possible Baltimore’s fortune will swing back in a positive direction. The injury luck could improve, and maybe someone like Holliday grows into a star. Even so, Elias will have to prove he’s as good at buying as he seems to be at selling. “We’re in a really good spot with the health of the org, the talent that’s in the org, the players, the system that we have,” Elias said. “We need to get better, we need to continue to adjust and evolve. Our competition is very, very stiff, but I like where we’re at. The way that we’ve gotten here has felt different because of the last couple of years and how we’ve tapered down the last couple years from where our record was in 2023 and 2024. But the future is strong, and I think it starts right now.”
At 35 and in 14th season, Jets’ Smith has Reich seeing QB in his prime The former Panthers coach is impressed by the Jets veteran By Dennis Waszak Jr. The Associated Press FLORHAM PARK, N.J.— Frank Reich had to think for a second while raving — again — about Geno Smith, pondering the New York Jets quarterback’s age. “I don’t know how old he is. Isn’t he past 35?,” the offensive coordinator asked last Friday before being told Smith is actually 35. “It feels like he’s 28. I’m telling you, it feels like physically, I see no ... like, he is in his prime, physically.” Not bad for a quarterback entering his 14th NFL season, a journey that began as a second-round draft pick of the Jets in 2013 and has included several ups and downs on the field along the way. “Like his arm, the way he moves, his feet in the pocket, he’s physically in his prime,” said Reich, in his first season running the Jets’ offense. “So he takes great care of himself, and that’s going to help this team.”
New York certainly hopes so. The Jets acquired Smith in the offseason from Las Vegas to add a veteran quarterback to an offense that struggled mightily during a 3-14 season. The Jets ranked last or near the bottom in several offensive categories as the likes of Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor and Brady Cook took turns calling the signals for then-coordinator Tanner Engstrand. Their 8 yards per completion was the lowest mark in the NFL, and that’s something that’s expected to improve significantly. Smith has always been able to stretch the field, especially during three straight seasons of at least 3,500 yards passing in Seattle from 2022-24. He threw for 3,025 last year in a down season with Las Vegas that included an NFL-leading 17 interceptions. Back with the Jets, Smith has had a mostly good training camp. And he has thoroughly impressed Reich, who said during minicamp that the quarterback has an “elite” football mind. Reich was back gushing about Smith last Friday. “Geno’s the leader,” Reich said. “He’s the leader of the of-
SETH WENIG / AP PHOTO
New York Jets’ offensive coordinator Frank Reich, left, works with running backs at the team’s training camp. fense, make no mistake about it, in every way, shape and form. And to me, what has become crystal clear in this early time in training camp, the attribute that sticks out to me is his laser focus. This man is laser-focused like people don’t understand. He comes to work, and he is locked in. “And I feel like the whole offense plays off of that. That’s a really big deal.” Reich has seen what leadership looks like from a quarterback. He was a longtime backup to Jim Kelly as a player and has coached Peyton Manning, Philip Rivers, Andrew Luck and Matt Ryan. The offensive coordinator also knows what good quarterback play looks like. And he sees all of that in Smith, granted, still in the protected, no-contact confines of training camp. “I remember when he was coming out (of college), I had a high grade on him,” Reich
said. “His throwing mechanics, if I’m just talking pure upper-body mechanics, they’re pure. There’s only a couple guys in the league that I would say are pure. Geno’s one of them.” Smith has also been drawing positive reviews from his teammates, who have praised his leadership since rejoining the Jets. “Geno is a legend to guys like me,” fifth-year tight end Jelani Woods said. “He’s been in the league for a long time. You look up to him, just the professionalism he has, it’s something that you look into, and he’s one of those guys that you go up to and talk to him at any time. He sits with you at the lunch table, he sits with anybody at the lunch table, and you just have a simple conversation with him and just talk about life outside of football. “And, you know, stuff like that goes a long way.”
B3
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
obituaries Ben Jones, ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ actor and 2-term US House member, dies at 84 Ozzie Adams
The N.C. native credited his iconic TV role with pulling him out of self-destruction
Jan. 1, 1949 – Aug. 8, 2026 Deacon Ozzie Adams, 77, of the Addor Community in Pinebluff, N.C., peacefully passed away at his home on Saturday, August 8, 2026.
By Jeffrey Collins The Associated Press BEN JONES, who played the good ol’ boy mechanic in “The Dukes of Hazzard” TV series and parlayed his fame into a political career and two terms in the U.S. House, has died. He was 84. Jones had a heart attack in his home Sunday in Washington, Virginia, as he was waiting to watch his beloved Atlanta Braves play baseball, his wife said on social media. Rappahannock County Sheriff Connie Compton confirmed his death. Jones’ fame came from his role as Cooter Davenport, the mechanic who got the Duke boys out of jams as they tried to do the right thing and fight the corrupt Boss Hogg in the fictional Hazzard County, Georgia. After playing Cooter for all seven seasons of the series from 1979 to 1985, Jones turned to politics and was elected to the U.S. House from a district near Atlanta in 1988. The Democrat served two terms before he was redistricted out of the seat. Jones was born in North Carolina and in college got involved in acting and civil rights, he wrote in his autobiography “Redneck Boy in the Promised Land: The Confessions of ‘Crazy Cooter.’” Acting took over his life. Jones performed in numerous stage productions and had a few minor TV and movie roles in Atlanta during the 1970s before his life-defining break came on a TV show Jones defended as a modern-day morality tale and a fine example of Southern values. For seven seasons, Jones was one of a small band of friends and family helping Bo and Luke Duke in “The Dukes of Hazzard.” The brothers were on probation for running moonshine and were constantly trying to clear their names and stop the crooked and powerful Boss Hogg from stealing or cheating. The Duke boys drove a modified 1969 Dodge Charger called the General Lee with a Confederate flag on its roof. Cooter owned “Cooter’s Garage” in the town square. Nearly every episode involved a car chase with jumps and stunts and a patrol car badly in need of repairs. Cooter was often on the CB radio in his pickup truck saying, “Breaker one, Breaker one. I might be crazy but I ain’t dumb. Crazy Cooter coming at you.”
JOE HOLLOWAY JR. / AP PHOTO
Jones, then running for Congress, center, prepares to watch the Hawks-Pacers NBA game at the Omni Arena in 1988 in Atlanta. “The Dukes of Hazzard” was a hit for CBS, and its popularity never waned. It went into syndication and later became of prominent fixture on cable’s The Nashville Network. Jones also credited the series with pulling him out of a self-destructive, alcoholic lifestyle that led to the failure of several marriages. “It was like being in a Beatles movie,” Jones said. “Our lives changed.” After “The Dukes of Hazzard,” Jones went into politics. He kept his aw-shucks personality but took the issues seriously. In his four years in Washington, Jones was known as a Democrat who could buck his party. He was liberal on social issues and conservative on economics. But even in politics, he made a splash. After losing in 1992 in his redrawn district, Jones ran for Congress again in 1994. He lost to Newt Gingrich in the elections that elevated the Republican to the Speaker’s Office. Jones would file an ethics complaint that Gingrich used tax-deductible donations to fund his partisan college course, leading to a House reprimand and Gingrich’s decision to leave the body. Jones always embraced his role as Cooter. After moving to Virginia, he would open at least three “Cooter’s” country stores in Nashville and Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and near his home. They sold plenty of T-shirts, key chains and insulated tumblers and included Dukes of Hazzard memorabilia, including one of the 300 or so General Lee cars used and abused in the TV series. The show and Cooter lived on because it was funny, had plenty of action and car chases and had a good, family-friendly heart, Jones told the Richmond Times-Dispatch at a 2001 car show where he played in a band, signed autographs and met fans. “The show reflects the values of the heartland of America. The good guys always win,” Jones said.
Winfred Ray Tysor July 30, 1938 – Aug. 6, 2026 Mr. Winfred Ray Tysor, 88, of Sanford, North Carolina, entered into eternal rest on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at Central Carolina Hospital in Sanford, North Carolina.
Christine Louise Felipe Nov. 25, 1973 – Aug. 3, 2026
Sandra “Sandy” Ann Bennett Chavis
Barbara Janette Foushee Koonce
Oct. 5, 1959 – Aug. 5, 2026
Barbara Janette Foushee Koonce, age 92, went to be with her Lord on August 6, 2026, at her home. She was born on September 16, 1933, to William and Pearl Foushee. She grew up with two sisters and three brothers whom she loved dearly. Barbara was a loyal follower of Jesus. She was actively involved in First Baptist Church of Vass. Over the years, she volunteered as a Sunday School teacher, vacation Bible School teacher, and as a Women’s Missionary Union representative. She was a Girl Scout Troop Leader for many years and was active in the Vass Women’s Club. Barbara is survived by her two daughters, Dawn Koonce (Lauren) and Jennifer Koonce Vest, grandsons, Bailey Vest (Brooke) and Wilder Grey Spencer Koonce, greatgrandchildren, Brynlee, and Colson Vest, son-in-law, David Vest, numerous nieces and nephews, and dear friends. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Pearl Foushee, husband, Barney Koonce, sisters and brothers, Joyce Foushee, Mildred Foushee, Jack Foushee, Clyde Foushee and Frank Foushee, Sr., dear friend, Howard and Belinda Hennings, Sr., John Sye and Donald Bridgers, Sr., Joe and Ruth Frye, Charles and Peggy Evans, Benton and Barbara Thrailkill, and numerous nieces and nephews. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Meredith College in memory of Barbara Koonce. A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 9, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Vass. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church from 2 until 3. Burial will follow in Johnson Grove Cemetery.
Sandra “Sandy” Ann Bennett Chavis, age 66, of Carthage passed away at her home on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at Cox Memorial Funeral Home Chapel on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at 2:00 PM with Pastor John Brown officiating. A time of visitation will immediately follow the service. Sandy was born in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, on October 5, 1959, to the late Benjamin and Marguerite Nicks Bennett. “She devoted her life to her family with unwavering love, strength, and selflessness. A remarkable woman whose greatest joy was being a wife, mother, and grandmother, she poured her intelligence, compassion, and tireless work into caring for those she loved. She was the heart of her home, faithfully guiding her family through life’s greatest joys and challenges. Her steadfast faith in the Lord shaped the way she lived, loved, and served others. She had a deep love for all living creatures and found happiness in a good cup of coffee, Elvis’s music, and the sight of a bright red cardinal. Though she never sought recognition, her kindness, sacrifice, and unconditional love became her greatest legacy. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who were blessed to know and love her.” She is survived by her loving husband of 40 years, Tony Chavis; son, Nelson Cuevas of Randleman, NC; daughters, Kelly McGraw (Chance) of Cameron and Toni Chavis of Vass; grandchildren, Emmalyn and Eli.
Christine Louise Felipe, age 52, of Vass, passed away on Monday, August 3, 2026, at her home, surrounded by her family. Christine was born in Naples, Florida, on November 25, 1973, to Annie Hornsby DeSilva and the late Douglas DeSilva. In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Bobby and Lucian. She is survived by her husband of 14 years, Elpidio Felipe Ruiz; children, Jose Torres of Vass, Juan Torres also of Vass, Jessica DeSilva of Florida; grandchildren, Liam, Esmae, Amayah; sisters, Donna, Lisa, Susan, Anna; brothers, Ricky, Danny, Timothy. No services are planned.
Sept. 16, 1933 – Aug. 6, 2026
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in NSJ at obits@northstatejournal.com
Proudly supporting you every step of the way on your grief journey.
CONTACT
www.bolesfuneralhome.com Email: md@bolesfuneralhome.com Locations in: Southern Pines (910) 692-6262 | Pinehurst (910) 235-0366 | Seven Lakes (910) 673-7300
@BolesFuneralHomes
B4
North State Journal for Thursday, August 13, 2026
STATE & NATION
Watchdog for $46B tribal gambling industry can’t enforce law without chairperson The vacancy exposes the tribal gambling industry to emerging online prediction markets By Savannah Peters The Associated Press ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — On opening day at the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma’s new Harrah’s-branded casino, the tribe’s chairman watched customers pack the gambling floor while a queue of cars spilled out of the parking lot. “We couldn’t let them in because we were so full,” Chairman Jacob Keyes said. “That’s a direct impact from the Harrah’s name.” But a vacancy in Washington is preventing the tribe’s partnership with the gambling giant from moving beyond branding. Plans for Harrah’s parent company to take over day-to-day management of the casino in Chandler, Oklahoma, stalled after it opened in April, because no one is at the helm of the federal commission that oversees tribal gambling. The last chairperson of the National Indian Gaming Commission stepped down from the role in January. President Donald Trump has not nominated anyone to fill the vacancy. Absent a chair, the commission is unable to perform some key responsibilities, like enforcing legal and safety violations, approving new tribal gambling laws and certifying management agreements between tribes and casino operators. Industry leaders say the agency’s inertia risks delaying business deals, weakening oversight and leaving tribes without a key advocate in Washington as they grapple with an emerging threat posed by online prediction markets. “At this crucial time, the (National Indian Gaming Commission) is operating with one arm tied behind its back,” said Jonodev Chaudhuri, a former NIGC chair from 2013 to 2019 and a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. “That’s a very precarious position for tribes and Indian gaming.” There’s a lot at stake for tribes that rely heavily on casino revenue to fund healthcare, housing, education and other vital services. Tribal gambling brought in a record $46 billion in 2025, nearly triple the annual casino revenue of gambling powerhouse Nevada. Commission’s core powers vested in chair With its Harrah’s contract stuck in limbo, the Iowa Tribe’s small government staff finds itself managing the 175,000-square-foot casino, a mammoth task it had intended to outsource. “It’s discouraging. We’re paying a fee and not getting the full value,” Keyes said.
BRITTANY BENDABOUT / AP PHOTO
A person plays a slot machine at Harrah’s Casino, owned by the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma, in Chandler, Oklahoma, on Aug. 5. Prediction markets emerge as new threat to tribal gaming
BRITTANY BENDABOUT / AP PHOTO
William Eary, a table games dealer at Harrah’s Casino, shuffles a deck of cards at the casino in Chandler, Oklahoma, on Aug. 5. The decision to outsource management was strategic: Harrah’s branding would bring in more business than existing staff could accommodate. Instead, staff has to balance management with other priorities like preparing tribal budgets and overseeing social programs, Keyes said. The three-member gaming commission was formed in 1988 to regulate casino-style gambling and promote economic development on tribal lands. Some 250 tribal governments across 29 states now operate 545 gambling facilities, the commission said. Under federal law, its enforcement powers are vested solely in the chairperson. Industry leaders say its inability to cite casinos for violating federal law or force the emergency closure of unsafe facilities is particularly troubling. In a typical year, the commis-
sion issues several citations to tribes for operating casinos on unauthorized lands, failing to submit required financial statements, misusing revenues and other violations. The commission’s last enforcement action was issued Jan. 12 — the same day acting chairperson Sharon Avery’s term expired. She remains on the commission. The commission declined an interview request and said in an emailed statement that tribal officials and its field staff provide “excellent regulation” amid the leadership gap. But Steven Light, an expert in tribal gambling law at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, said the lack of enforcement power could discourage investment in tribal gambling and slow business growth. “Markets function best when there’s stability and certainty around processes and rules,” Light said.
The commission vacancy comes as the popularity of online prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket explodes. Tribal leaders fear those platforms, which allow users to wager on the outcome of virtually any event, could violate their sovereignty and take a bite out of gambling revenue. “Every dollar generated by Indian gaming goes to fund healthcare for our people, education for our children, housing for our elders,” said David Bean, chairman of the Indian Gaming Association and a citizen of the Puyallup Tribe. At least eight tribes have sued prediction market platforms, alleging they accept bets from tribal lands and in states where tribes have exclusive gambling rights in violation of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which the gaming commission is tasked with enforcing. Prediction markets argue their users are engaging in futures trading, not gambling, and dispute claims that they are circumventing regulation. The commission chairperson typically serves as an advocate for the tribal gambling industry in Washington, according to former commissioners and staffers. Yet it’s been conspicuously silent while the federal government weighs how to regulate prediction markets, said Joe Valandra, the commission’s chief of staff from 2005 to 2007 and a citizen of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. James Siva, who leads the California Nations Indian Gaming Association and is vice
chairman of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, said the Trump administration’s support of and business ties to the prediction markets industry could explain why it hasn’t filled the vacancy. “These things are happening in conjunction with each other,” Siva said in April at a news conference with the Indian Gaming Association. “It is not a coincidence by any means.” Leadership gap spans two administrations The commission’s last Senate-confirmed chairperson termed out under former President Joe Biden without a successor in place. A White House spokesperson called the commission a “valued board” but did not say when a new nomination will be made. In April, Trump appointed Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland, a citizen of the Navajo Nation, to the commission. That’s raised questions about potential executive branch influence over an agency designed to be independent. “This crosses that threshold in an uncomfortable way,” said Shannon O’Loughlin, the commission’s chief of staff from 2015 to 2017 and a citizen of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. Keyes said a crucial opportunity to develop his tribe’s economy hangs in the balance. He doesn’t see the commission vacancy as partisan play. “I don’t want to sound like sour grapes, but when have Native American issues ever been prioritized by the federal government?” he said.
[[Yä kknÊ
È··¸ä äȹºä äȹµä ȸµ½ä ä¾kk 855-910-AMMO
NCammunition.com