North State Journal Vol. 11, Issue 26

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 26 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

NSJONLINE.COM

STAN GILLILAND FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Hard time, small batch Barrels of Conviction Bourbon age behind the bars of a former prison cellblock at Southern Grace Distilleries’ Whiskey Prison in Mount Pleasant. The former correctional facility has become both a working distillery and a destination for bourbon enthusiasts. See more on page A10.

the

Cabarrus County Schools faces 2 federal lawsuits

BRIEF this week

Trump says no talks planned with Iran Washington, D.C. U.S. President Donald Trump said Tuesday the U.S. has no talks planned with Iran but insisted the Strait of Hormuz remains “open and operating” despite limited traffic and a reported strike on a ship exiting the waterway. Earlier this week, Trump also threatened to bomb Oman as the country sought a deal with Iran to manage shipping traffic through the strait, two regional officials said Tuesday, a day after Trump reportedly leveled the threat if Oman “gets in the way.” Iran says the waterway will not be reopened until the U.S. meets its conditions.

Liberia agrees to take 1,200 U.S. deportees Monrovia, Liberia Liberia has agreed to accept up to 1,200 third-country deportees from the United States, authorities in the West African country said Tuesday, in one of the largest such arrangements under the Trump administration’s policy aimed at deterring illegal migration. The deportees will be received within a year, with the first batch of 20 expected Thursday, Liberia’s Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah told reporters. The 1,200 deportees will include Africans as well as nationals from North America, South America and the Caribbean, Piah said. The administration has struck several such third-country deportation deals with African countries. Under a series of often-secret agreements that are part of a broad U.S. crackdown on illegal immigration, the Trump administration has deported thousands of people to nearly two dozen countries that are not their own, advocates say.

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Both complaints involve the district allowing males into female spaces

Audit finds issue in NCDOT program The LOGO Program was privatized last year By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal RALEIGH — The North Carolina Office of the State Auditor’s recent audit of the North Carolina Department of Transportation’s LOGO Program found financial and record-keeping issues prior to privatization, including $1.2 million in outstanding payments. Additional issues ranged

from missing contracts to a lack of a comprehensive, precise location map for all highway signs. “We expect that a portion of the outstanding balance of $1.2 million as of September 9, 2025, is partially due to the confusion of changing program management,” wrote state signing and delineation engineer Kelvin Jordan in the department’s response letter. “We expect that NCSP will be more responsive in this area due to their dedicated staff See AUDIT, page A6

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — Two federal lawsuits have been filed against Cabarrus County Schools over a practice of allowing students to use restrooms, locker rooms and changing areas based on gender identity rather than biological sex. The two lawsuits are Does v. Cabarrus County Board of Education and Matthews v. Cabarrus County Board of Education. The plaintiffs in both cases are being represented by attorneys from America First Legal (AFL). The cases target the same underlying district practice: Cabarrus County Schools has said it handles these situations case by case and believes federal court precedent requires it to allow the access. In the Does case, first filed

NC Community Colleges System taps new leader Monty Sullivan most recently led Louisiana Community and Technical College System By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — After a national search, the State Board of Community Colleges has selected Monty Sullivan to lead the North Carolina Community College System, according to a press statement issued in late July. “The Board committed to conducting the most disciplined and comprehensive presidential search in our history because North Carolina deserved the very best leader,” Tom Loo-

ney, chair of the State Board of Community Colleges, said in the release. “Dr. Monty Sullivan has the passion, experience, vision, character, and proven record to lead our Community College System at the speed of business and innovation. We are confident he is the right leader to strengthen our 58 colleges, serve our students and employers, and build on North Carolina’s extraordinary momentum.” The NCCCS selection announcement included a background document on Sullivan, who most recently headed up the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) for 12 years before his early retirement in January. See SULLIVAN, page A3

“Dr. Monty Sullivan has the passion, experience, vision, character, and proven record to lead our Community College System.” Tom Looney, State Board of Community Colleges chair

July 31, three female students at Cox Mill High School and their mothers sued the Cabarrus County Board of Education and Superintendent John Kopicki in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina in Greensboro. The students are identified by pseudonyms in the filing as Mary Doe, Jane Doe and Beth Poe. The lawsuit says the students repeatedly encountered males in girls’ facilities, making them feel uncomfortable and vulnerable, but were told by school officials there was nothing the district could do. The complaint alleges that practice violates Title IX, the Equal Protection Clause and the North Carolina Constitution, and the plaintiffs are seeking an injunction to restore sex-separated facilities along with damages. AFL also filed a motion for a preliminary injunction in the Does case Aug. 7 that seeks to require the defendants to See LAWSUITS, page A2

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THURSDAY

8.20.26 #555

“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 | Summer gathering for winter’s needs “He who gathers crops in summer is a wise son, but he who sleeps during harvest is a disgraceful son.” Proverbs 10:5 So the inspired proverb tells us. In its simplest form the reference is to the gathering and laying up of food in the summer days. There is a season when the harvest is waving in the fields, when the fruits hang heavy on trees and vines, when earth’s good things wait to be gathered. That is the time when men must be diligent — if they would lay in store for their winter’s needs. Not long does the opportunity wait. No sooner are the fruits ripe — than they begin to decay and fall off. No sooner is the harvest golden — than it begins to perish. Winter follows summer. Then there are no fruits on the trees or vines, no harvests waving on the fields. The hungry man cannot go out then to gather food, and if he has not gathered in summer — he must suffer hunger. Life has its summers and its winters — its times of health, plenty, opportunity; then its times of sickness or need; and these seasons of need must survive, from the stores laid up in the days of abundance. Youth is a summer. It is a time for the forming of habits, for the foundation of character, for the making of friendships. Later on comes “real life,” with its duties, responsibilities, struggles, sorrows, and losses. But he who has gathered in life’s summer — shall not lack in life’s winter. A youth-time diligently spent in improvement, prepares one for whatever comes in the sterner years; while every opportunity wasted in youth — is a risk for misfortune, or failure in later life. The same law applies in spiritual life. In our time of quietness and security, we may store up in our hearts, the resources we shall need to draw upon for meeting temptation. Childhood and early youth in a true Christian home, are sheltered in a large measure from stern assaults and bitter conflicts. The atmosphere is kindly and congenial. The influences are helpful. There is a mother’s shoulder to cry on — and a father’s hand to lead and protect. This is life’s summer. But the winter eventually comes. No young person can live always in such a shelter. The time comes — when the children must go out to face the temptations of the world. It is possible, however, in the days of quiet in the home — to so gather spiritual resources in the heart — that in the conflicts of later days, the life shall be safe. Lives should be built in the home in the days of youth — not merely for the experiences of the home itself — but to meet the stern buffetings and the severe tests any possible future may bring. Principles should be fixed so firmly that nothing can ever swerve the life from them. Habits should be so wrought that nothing can change them. Conscience should be so trained that it can withstand greatest stress without wavering. The lesson is for the young. In the bright sunny days — gather

PUBLIC DOMAIN

“Children Playing on the Beach” by Mary Cassatt (1884) in the Ailsa Mellon Bruce Collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. into their lives stores of moral and spiritual strength to counter the world’s fierce temptations. The great principles of Christianity should be fixed in their minds so no assaults of skepticism can make them doubt. Gather about you in the sunny days gentle and worthy friends. Above all, gather into your soul the friendship of Jesus Christ, and let His words bless your life and fill and enrich your heart. Then, when the winter days come, the memories of all these precious things will abide, and will shine like soft lamps in the gloom. Such gathering in the summer days of life — will make the winter cheerful and bright within, even with storm and darkness outside.

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

LAWSUITS from page A1

vate facilities. He also asked the schools in question about “enforce sex-separated facilities advance notice if any male based on biological sex until the would be allowed in the girls’ court reaches a final decision in restrooms or any female in the boys’ facilities so he could prothis case.” “I think that one of the im- tect his children’s privacy conportant things about this case sistent with his religious beliefs. Both principals reis that the school disfused to turn over any trict has stated that the information in nearreason why they are ally identical responslowing males to access “School es, citing student confemale spaces is befidentiality, according cause the law requires officials to the complaint. them to,” said AFL Se- dodging Matthews argues nior Counsel Ian Pricommonthe refusal violator, who is handling ed his First and Fourthe Does case. “Spe- sense teenth Amendment cifically, they’re cit- questions rights as a parent, and ing to a Fourth Circuit he is seeking an order case, Grimm versus from requiring the district Gloucester County. parents to give parents notice “It’s our position and an opportunity to that the Supreme will not be opt out. Court effectively over- tolerated.” A motion for a preruled Grimm verliminary injunction sus Gloucester Coun- Nick Barry, was also filed in the ty when they said that America Matthews case, asking sex, as defined in Title First Legal IX and as used in Ti- senior counsel the court to order the district to stop withtle IX, cannot plausiholding the requested bly mean anything other than biological sex. And Title information. In the press release for the IX provides not just for separate athletics, but separate re- Matthews case, AFL Senior strooms, separate locker rooms, Counsel Nick Barry characterized it as “a simple scenario of a separate living facilities. “So it’s an important case father attempting to protect his because if we’re successful, we children,” adding, “School ofwould like to see schools not ficials dodging common-sense continuing to rely on that old, questions from parents will not outdated law to push this stuff be tolerated.” Barry told North State Jouron kids and parents.” Prior also indicated Cabarrus nal the reply Matthews received County Schools had a chance to from the schools was “effectiveavoid the lawsuit, issuing a de- ly a nonresponse.” “I hope the district will read mand letter for the district to change course considering the the Supreme Court’s longer U.S. Supreme Court’s decision case, which required notice and in West Virginia v. B.P.J., up- an opportunity to opt out when holding West Virginia’s Save schools were engaged in eduWomen’s Sports Act legislation. cating on LGBT books to stuThe high court ruled, “Ti- dents,” Barry said of his desired tle IX allows schools to provide outcome in the case. “The court separate women’s and men’s said parents had a right to know sports teams defined by biolog- that was occurring, and they ical sex, and West Virginia has had the right to opt out of it. “I think it’s worse here. … permissibly maintained female sports for biological females When the school may be permitting males in the female inconsistent with Title IX.” “They never responded to timate spaces, they should have that letter,” Prior said. “So it to provide notice to the parents was incumbent upon us to pro- and then opportunity for the tect our clients’ rights and file parents to make alternate accommodations for their child.” that first lawsuit.” The lawsuits come after the The second suit against Cabarrus’ board was filed U.S. Department of EducaAug. 7. Brandon Matthews, a tion’s Office for Civil Rights father of two Cabarrus schools announced an investigation students, filed the lawsuit in into Cabarrus County Schools the same federal court. He has over Title IX complaints allega daughter at Mount Pleasant ing males are regularly allowed Elementary and a son at Mount into girls-only facilities and failure to address female stuPleasant High School. Matthews asked the princi- dents’ concerns. A similar Title pals of both schools for policies IX investigation has also been about who can use restrooms, launched into Buncombe Counlocker rooms and similar pri- ty Public Schools.

Cox Mill High School is at the center of one of two federal lawsuits filed against Cabarrus County Schools.

COURTESY CABARRUS COUNTY SCHOOLS

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.

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

LGC approves $814M in August meeting The funds will support drinking water and wastewater projects along with infrastructure improvements By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal RALEIGH — The Local Government Commission approved more than $814 million across North Carolina for drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, PFAS treatment, stormwater improvements, school renovations, public safety facilities, affordable housing and senior living projects during its August meeting. Funds will finance improvements to Greensboro’s water and sewer system, including upgrades to the T.Z. Osborne Wastewater Treatment Plant and improvements to the Mitchell and Lake Townsend water treatment plants for PFAS removal. Additional improvements will be made to water system resiliency and infrastructure. “Fifty-two percent of the dollars we spend, capital dollars, are on regulatory compliance,” Director of Water Resources Mike Borchers said discussing increases in Greensboro’s water/sewer rates to account for infrastructure upgrades. “It doesn’t go away. These forever chemicals, we have to upgrade these plants to remove these, first and foremost, for public health.” The Local Government Commission (LGC) approved a request from Greensboro for up to $290 million in revenue bond anticipation notes. Revenue bond anticipation notes are short-term debt to fund a public project and are repaid

“These forever chemicals, we have to upgrade these plants to remove these, first and foremost, for public health.” Mike Borchers, director of water resources with revenue generated by the project or through a permanent, long-term bond. Greensboro’s request was presented separately to the LGC due to Financial Performance Indicators of Concern flagged in its most recent audit. The findings were addressed and reviewed in the LGC meeting, where Greensboro’s corrective action plan was deemed acceptable. The LGC approved up to $200 million for The Sharon at SouthPark, formerly Sharon Towers, in conduit revenue bonds issued through the North Carolina Medical Care Commission. Conduit revenue bonds can give nonprofit projects tax-free status, with the money being paid back by the borrower. Funds will support construction of new independent living units, wellness facilities and other campus improvements at the nonprofit continuing care retirement community. The LGC considered financing requests from Newport and Norwood, which were approved, after both towns were recently released from the state’s Unit Assistance List (UAL). The LGC uses the UAL to track and identify local government units experiencing financial distress, internal control deficiencies or late audit

Farley on reelection, visit with pope, AI in workforce The state Labor commissioner delivered a custom Hurricanes jersey and the Order of the Tar Heel to the pontiff By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal This is Part 2 of a two-part interview. RALEIGH — In part one of an interview with North State Journal, North Carolina Labor Commissioner Luke Farley discussed his focus on government responsiveness to workers and improvements for wages and safety. In part two, Farley spoke

about reelection plans, his visit with the pope and how AI is unfolding in the workplace. Farley said he could see himself “seeking reelection” but said individuals elected in 2024 should “be laser-focused on doing the job that they have been elected to do before they start worrying about whether they deserve another term.” “Anybody who’s already talking about reelection is just a politician,” said Farley. “This is such a big and important job that I’m focused on doing it right. Certainly, there will come a time to talk about reelection, but now is the time to do the job you are put in place to do first.” Farley added that he sees his responsibility over the workers

SULLIVAN from page A1 Sullivan left his Louisiana role about three years early as his contract had been extended through Dec. 31, 2028. He announced retirement plans on Oct. 9, 2025, with the LCTCS board approving a negotiated separation agreement effective Jan. 31, 2026. Sullivan has also served as community college president with the Virginia Community College System, among other leadership roles. The national search was conducted by the firm of Bufkin & Baker. According to the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS) press statement, Sullivan was picked “following unanimous recommendations from both the Presidential Search Committee and the Search Advisory Council before the Board’s vote on July 17.” Christopher Chung, who is the CEO of the Economic Develop-

COURTESY NCCCS

Monty Sullivan ment Partnership of North Carolina, was on the search advisory council and said their work “led us to a proven leader with a long track record of excellence.” “Monty Sullivan is the right choice at the right time for Team North Carolina,” Chung said. The press statement also says Sullivan’s start date has not yet been established and that his

filings. Being placed on the list prompts state oversight and statutory rules for financing support. Commissioners approved appeals regarding Notices of Noncompliance under North Carolina’s audit reporting law. A Notice of Noncompliance is an official warning sent by the LGC to a county or municipality that fails to submit its annual independent audit report on time. Thirty-five local governments qualified for successful appeals after meeting the LGC’s guidelines. Other approvals for more than $5 million included: • $110 million, Charlotte — Approved revenue bond anticipation notes for stormwater improvements, flood control projects and system upgrades. • $62.5 million, Fayetteville Public Works Commission — Approved state revolving fund loans for construction of granular activated carbon facilities to remove PFAS from drinking water. • $67 million, Fayetteville Public Works Commission — Approved future revenue bonds for financing of the same PFAS treatment project. • $13.5 million, Guilford County — Approved an installment financing contract to acquire body cameras and equipment for the sheriff’s office. • $26 million, Lincoln County — Approved limited obligation bonds for renovations and improvements at Rock Springs and Catawba Springs elementary schools. • $10.2 million, Person County — Approved limited obligation bonds for improvements at four elementary schools. • $10.8 million, Valdese — Approved an installment financing contract for a new public safety facility housing police and fire departments. • $20 million, Wilmington Housing Authority — Approved conduit revenue bonds for acquiring and rehabilitating the 150-unit Solomon Towers affordable housing community.

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No wrongdoing found in $6.8M Lumbee land purchase The tribe voted down a June measure to develop a casino complex By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — No wrongdoing was found in an independent legal review of the Lumbee Tribe’s $6.8 million land purchase intended for a casino complex off Interstate 95 in Robeson County. The Robesonian first reported that Lumbee Tribe Holdings Inc. (LTH), the for-profit arm of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, released a statement late last month announcing that an independent legal review found no evidence of “wrongdoing” in the 241-acre tract purchase. The statement noted LTH is “wholly owned by Lumbee and is governed by an independent Board of Directors.” “As a threshold matter, the report found, based on the evidence, no suggestion of wrongdoing by LTH personnel,” the LTH statement said. “The Board acknowledges that the documents available from state and county public sources could reasonably lead Tribal citizens to believe that something untoward may have occurred. However, the Board has concluded that the concerns raised are explainable based on the record evidence.” The land, acquired in December just before the tribe received full federal recognition, was intended for economic development purposes, most notably a casino and resort complex. Public records indicate a Wyoming-based company, Western Agricultural Holdings LLC, bought the same parcels for $3.2 million just days earlier, prompting questions from Lumbee Tribe members.

In June, a proposed constitutional amendment that would have allowed a casino complex to move forward was voted down by Lumbee Tribe members with a majority vote of more than 62%. The Chicago law firm Jenner & Block conducted the review, according to the statement. The review report has not been made public. According to both The Robesonian and the LTH statement, Western Ag held a preexisting exclusive option to purchase the land at a fixed price. As a result, Lumbee Holdings had no choice but to pay the higher amount once it identified the site as ideal. The statement highlighted that the purchase was made using only for-profit funds from LTH and that it and the tribal government operate as separate entities. Additionally, the statement said the company had no knowledge of Western Ag’s acquisition cost when it negotiated the deal, and the board “made its decision based on the property’s strategic value, its development potential, a data-based market study, and the negotiated purchase price, rather than any knowledge of Western Ag’s acquisition cost.” In the closing portion of the statement, the board pledged governance reforms that include hiring a general counsel reporting directly to the board, retaining outside real estate counsel for major acquisitions, and requiring advance disclosure to the Tribal Council of any real estate or business transactions of $2 million or more. Other reforms include updating bylaws and publicly releasing the mutual nondisclosure agreement signed in December by company personnel and council members.

of North Carolina as the most important thing he does. He said he sees his role as “being the champion for those people, to make sure they’re paid what they’ve been promised, that they’re safe on the job, that their employers aren’t discriminating against them or retaliating against them, to make sure children aren’t working in unsafe conditions or being overworked or violating child labor laws.” Beyond his duties in North Carolina, Farley had the opportunity to visit Pope Leo XIV, presenting him with a custom Carolina Hurricanes jersey and the Order of the Tar Heel. “It is just an enormous privilege to be able to represent the state of North Carolina,” said Farley. “I’ve had a couple of opportunities to meet people abroad since I’ve been commissioner, and that is always an enormous honor and privilege. “Meeting Pope Leo and being able to tell him a little bit about North Carolina and what’s going on in North Carolina and sharing the exciting things that are going on in the state was just

an incredible experience. It was surreal, it was exciting. I was there with my son, and I was able to share that moment with him.” Farley noted that the Hurricanes winning the Stanley Cup brought people together, and what he “wanted to convey to the Holy Father was that this was something great that just happened in North Carolina.” “There’s lots of things we can find that divide us, so we need to focus on things that bring us together, and everybody was behind the Canes,” said Farley. Alongside a custom jersey, Farley presented the pope with the Order of the Tar Heel, the

highest honor bestowed by the commissioner of Labor in recognition of leadership, community service and contributions to the state’s workforce. “That was specifically because he has done a lot of work recently to protect workers from displacement by AI,” Farley said. In May, Pope Leo XIV released his first encyclical, “Magnifica Humanitas” (“Magnificent Humanity”), which focused on safeguarding the human person, human dignity and the common good in the age of artificial intelligence. “I thought that was a really important issue worth highlighting, and that’s why we presented Pope Leo with the Order of the Tar Heel,” said Farley. “AI is going to be disruptive. We need to be mindful when we’re dealing with AI, that AI is here to serve our workers and help them do their jobs better, not to replace them. “If our approach to AI is that it gets rid of jobs instead of helping people do their jobs, then I think we’re thinking about it the wrong way.”

selection still needs to be confirmed by the General Assembly. That confirmation may be delayed, as legislative leaders have signaled no major votes until after the November midterm elections. If confirmed, Sullivan will take over for William Carver, who was acting as interim president of the system. NCCCS communications staff told North State Journal that no contract or formal offer letter ha been issued. In researching Sullivan’s background, North State Journal found Sullivan had entanglements with state lawmakers in May 2023 over a proposed resolution compelling spending data on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), critical race theory (CRT) and social-emotional learning during his tenure in Louisiana. According to the Louisiana Illuminator, Sullivan’s remarks were quite heated; he called the resolution “a racist instrument” at its core.

Sullivan was also quoted as stating, “Diversity, equity and inclusion is a fact of life. Some of us have come to realize that already. Others of us have not.” He also referenced Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, stating, “The little man in Florida does not drive policy in Louisiana.” Additionally, North State Journal (NSJ) found that, under Sullivan’s leadership, LCTCS instituted an employee evaluation process with a required DEI component. The Trump administration and U.S. Department of Education have issued orders and guidance eliminating DEI and CRT policies in K-12 schools as well as in higher education. Additionally, the North Carolina legislature’s override of Gov. Josh Stein’s veto of Senate Bill 558 prohibits such ideologies in higher education in the state. NSJ inquired with NCCCS if the selection committee had been aware of Sullivan’s DEI po-

sition and remarks and if there was selection documentation available. NCCCS responded by directing NSJ to file a records request, which is still pending. NCCCS also offered this statement from Looney in response to NSJ’s inquiries: “As part of an unprecedented national search, the State Board of Community Colleges conducted a thorough review of Dr. Sullivan’s complete career and public record before its unanimous vote. The Board selected him for his proven record in building workforce-aligned programs across statewide community college systems and his long history of productive work with legislators and governors of both parties. Dr. Sullivan has deep respect for North Carolina law and for the legislative partnerships this System depends on, and the Board has full confidence in his ability to lead our 58 colleges and the students and employers they serve.”

“There will come a time to talk about reelection, but now is the time to do the job you are put in place to do first.” Luke Farley, Labor commissioner

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

Election predictions from real people Reagan went on to win the largest landslide defeat of an American president in history.

SOMETIMES IN AMERICAN POLITICS, average people have more predictive power than the most touted electoral polls and commentators. In 1980, when I was first getting involved with politics and public service, I was driving back from a meeting at the Littleton Pepsi-Cola plant when I saw my gas gauge running a little low, so I pulled into a small country gas station. This was during the latter stages of the Reagan/Carter presidential campaign where most public polls showed the race as even. Seasoned political observers were saying Carter would win because Democrats had successfully painted Reagan as a dangerous warmonger and nothing but an aging B-grade movie actor. Even back then, Reagan campaigned on his distaste and distrust of socialism. Things have not changed as much as many have hoped, apparently. As I walked in, I saw five older men sitting at a table playing checkers near a wood stove. All were smoking or spitting tobacco juice into a spittoon near the fire, but they were obviously enjoying each other’s company after a hard day’s work on the farm or in some agriculture-related business. They invited me to pull up a chair and sit a spell, but I had to fill up and get back home to Durham. So I watched them make a few moves and struck up a light conversation. Since the election was a few weeks away, I asked them who was going to win the election, knowing they were all Southern Democrats and would say “Carter” in a breeze. Much to my 24-year-old self’s surprise, each man emphatically said “Reagan” in a landslide. They went on to say Carter and the Democrats’ policies were wrong for America and especially for them in eastern North Carolina. They were so convincing, I went home and told friends what I had learned in that gas station. All of them shrugged their shoulders and laughed in disbelief. Reagan went on to win the largest landslide defeat of an American president in history. Those guys sitting around a wood stove in a gas station between Littleton and Raleigh had a gut sense of what was going on in the electorate far better than anyone on the national news or in a major newspaper. I had a conversation recently with an old friend that reminded me of the importance of talking to real people instead of relying on digital media content or the mainstream media. He is involved in the day-to-day operations of modern political campaigning. I wanted to ask him what he was seeing in the face of the growing storm cloud of socialism around the nation and North Carolina, and what he said reminded me of that 1980 meeting in the rural gas station. First of all, he said, always remember no one won or lost a campaign in August of any election year. Real people are just too distracted by the

“Socialism only works in two places: Heaven where they don't need it and hell where they already have it.” RONALD REAGAN heat and vacations to the beach to pay too much attention to what every politician or commentator says every day. “However,” he said, “I have yet to see a person run out of their house in any North Carolina town with a big ‘hammer and sickle’ flag screaming they ‘can’t wait to become a socialist!’ Remember, the people who voted for Trump three times and gave Republicans legislative and congressional majorities since 2010 have not vanished into thin air, you know!” He went on to say he has seen more people at his breakout sessions than ever before. Meetings that used to attract four people are now drawing 40 people or more; sessions where 10 people would come listen to a conservative speaker now have 100 or more packing the room. On top of that, Republicans are signing up to help go door to door handing out literature and call people to make sure they are registered to vote and will then vote this fall. Both are in marked contrast to his experience in the past when Republicans have not matched the other side in terms of ground game and get-out-the-vote efforts. It is hard to measure the motivation and enthusiasm for the typical voter based on generic polls that are seemingly everywhere nowadays. But if people are showing up in numbers to help Republicans as this guy reported, it shows they have taken the threat of democratic socialism seriously and are willing to do something about it. Add to that the massive fundraising advantage for Republicans when the Democratic National Committee has $18 million in debt and meager fundraising totals, and this election could surprise as many people as 1980 did.

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

The murder of Iryna Zarutska, one year later “The court should have never let her son be out in the community knowing he had mental health issues and previous arrests.” Michelle Dewitt

IT WAS THE EVENING of Aug. 22, 2025. Like many people on Charlotte’s light rail system that Friday night, Iryna Zarutska was just trying to get home. She had just finished her shift at Zepeddies Pizzeria and probably had plans for that weekend, plans that never came to fruition. She boarded the train at 9:46 p.m. Just minutes later, the 23-year-old was brutally stabbed by the man sitting behind her in a shocking, unprovoked crime that was caught on video. The footage showed her in a crouched position in her seat after the attack, looking up at her attacker in shock and fear. She was bleeding and lost consciousness roughly 90 seconds later, which was around the time other passengers attempted to administer aid. She would later be pronounced dead at the scene of the crime. Three years earlier, Zarutska and her family had fled war-torn Ukraine to find a better, safer life in America. But in August 2025, they had to lay Iryna to rest in a heartbreaking turn of events. Soon, sadness turned to anger after it was learned that 34-year-old DeCarlos Brown Jr., her alleged attacker, was a repeat violent offender with mental health issues, and even his mother was quoted as saying he shouldn’t have been out on the streets.

As reported by WSOC-TV’s Joe Bruno at the time, Brown’s mother, Michelle Dewitt, told him, “The court should have never let her son be out in the community knowing he had mental health issues and previous arrests.” She also noted that Brown was allegedly so aggressive with her that she “had to kick him out.” Zarutska’s murder and the ensuing outcry over it became a city, state and national flashpoint over the ongoing debate surrounding the issue of violent repeat offenders harming innocent people. A congressional field hearing was held in Charlotte over it just weeks later. The tough-on-crime Iryna’s Law bill, which, among other things, tightened pretrial release conditions, was passed by the Republican-controlled North Carolina General Assembly and signed into law by Democratic Gov. Josh Stein last Oct. 3. Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump also made reference to the Zarutska case on many occasions, including at the State of the Union address that following year, where Trump told her mother, Anna, who was in attendance, “We will ensure justice for your magnificent daughter, Iryna.” He also called on Congress to “pass tough legislation to ensure that violent and dangerous repeat offenders are put behind bars and, importantly, that they stay there.”

Various bills on that front are in the works, but, predictably, they remain in congressional limbo. As for Brown, in June, he was found incompetent to stand trial on the federal charges against him (“violence against a railroad carrier and mass transportation system resulting in death”). In April, he was found incompetent to stand trial on his state murder charge. None of this means he will never stand trial, but his competency would have to be restored first. According to WUNC, “U.S. Attorney Russ Ferguson said the ruling is a necessary step to ensure the case can move forward and withstand any future appeals.” Ferguson told reporters, “The doctor that examined (Brown) for the competency hearing today found that his prognosis for restoration is very good, so I rely on the doctors there. I think the prognosis is good, and we’ll see him stand trial.” Rest in peace, Iryna Zarutska. You are gone, but you have not been forgotten. North Carolina native Stacey Matthews has also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah and is a media analyst and regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection.

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

COLUMN | DOUG TURPIN

Victory for free speech and the rule of law at Charlotte Latin Afterward, we were encouraged to THE NORTH CAROLINA Supreme continue communicating our concerns to Court’s decision in Turpin v. Charlotte “God is school administrators. Latin Schools, Inc. is an important victory We took the school at its word. — not just for our family, but for parents Dead” and Approximately two weeks later, our who believe that sending their children to a an image sixth-grade son told us about concerns he private school does not mean surrendering was experiencing in the classroom. Among their right to ask questions, raise depicting a things, he described political content concerns and expect a school to honor the police officer other that he believed was being presented in a commitments it makes to families. accompanied one-sided manner, such as “Republicans On Aug. 14, North Carolina’s highest are white supremacists.” This was during court reversed the Court of Appeals and by the words the COVID-19 pandemic, and he also told held that my wife and I had stated legal “All Cops Are us that he was being singled out and not claims against Charlotte Latin School, its permitted to use the bathroom or lower his administrators and its board of trustees Bastards.” mask to drink from his water bottle. arising from the way the school treated our We contacted the school. We were told family. The court found we properly stated we would meet with Head of Middle School claims for breach of contract, fraud, unfair Todd Ballaban and Baldecchi to discuss and deceptive conduct, and defamation. our concerns with no retaliation. But The Supreme Court did not decide that Baldecchi and Ballaban had other plans. Baldecchi we have already proved those claims. It decided that expelled our children effective immediately. our allegations are sufficient for the case to proceed. Several days later, the board of trustees sent an That distinction is important. But so is what comes email to the entire school community defaming next: We can now obtain emails, text messages, other us and the other Refocus Latin parents. The internal communications and sworn testimony to communication falsely accused us of making racist prove what actually happened. comments about nonwhite students and faculty, In other words, we finally get our day in court. which caused my wife severe emotional distress. In April 2022, we sued Charlotte Latin after the Our lawsuit is not about whether private schools school expelled our two young children, without any should have autonomy over their curriculum or reasonable basis, shortly after the beginning of the 2021-22 school year. Our children had attended Latin culture. They should. But when a private school makes contractual for years. It was the only school they had ever known. commitments to parents, those commitments should We believe the expulsions were retaliation for mean something. A school should not be able to exercising rights that Charlotte Latin had expressly promise parents they can raise concerns without promised to protect: the right to communicate retaliation and then simply disregard that promise respectfully with the school about our children’s when the parents actually do so. education and to raise concerns about changes in the That is what our case is about. school’s curriculum and culture. The Supreme Court has now held that our claims Those concerns were not abstract. can proceed. We intend to use the discovery process A group of concerned parents, including my wife to prove what happened and to hold Charlotte Latin and me, formed Refocus Latin because we were accountable. troubled by what we experienced due to radical We are fighting for all families. Parents should be shifts in the school’s curriculum and culture. Some of able to ask difficult questions and raise reasonable the artwork that appeared at the school was deeply concerns about their children’s education without troubling to us, including an image depicting Jesus fearing retaliation. Private schools have the right with his throat cut and black blood running down to establish their educational philosophies but not his shirt alongside the words “God is Dead,” and an to gaslight parents about what the school is doing image depicting a police officer as a pig accompanied and then expel their children because they asked by the words “All Cops Are Bastards.” questions when they promised they wouldn’t. Refocus Latin was invited to meet with the For more information on what happened, see school’s board of trustees and Head of School Chuck honoraboveall.org. Baldecchi to present those concerns. We did not demand that Charlotte Latin adopt our views. We asked questions and expressed our concerns. We were Doug Turpin is CEO of Coalition for Liberty and resides in Charlotte. expressly assured that there would be no retaliation.

COLUMN | LARRY ELDER

Obama to tell ‘the brothers’ to vote for El-Sayed How far from Obama are these “far-left” FORMER PRESIDENT Barack Obama Democrats? Last year, Obama called will likely campaign for Abdul El-Sayed, democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani the far-left Democrat who just won during his campaign for New York Michigan’s U.S. Senate primary. City mayor, praised his campaign and The two spoke after the primary, reportedly offered to serve as a “sounding and El-Sayed publicly said he hopes board.” Obama will campaign for him. Michigan On Israel, there isn’t much daylight could determine control of the Senate, You may between the two. El-Sayed has called the and Obama remains the most popular Israeli government “evil,” “bloodthirsty” Democrat. not have and a “rogue state.” He declined to directly El-Sayed won despite performing poorly wanted this answer when asked, “Do you believe Israel among black primary voters. His coalition candidate. has a right to exist?” Obama never went skewed younger, whiter, college-educated and progressive. In Detroit, Michigan’s His positions that far. He repeatedly defended Israel’s legitimacy and security. largest majority-black city, El-Sayed’s may be But Obama and Israeli Prime Minister opponent won more than 60% of the Benjamin Netanyahu repeatedly clashed. Democratic Senate vote. That may work in against your Netanyahu fiercely opposed Obama’s Iran a Democratic primary. But will it work in self-interests. nuclear deal, warning that Tehran could November? not be trusted. Israel obtained an archive of Enter Obama. Iranian nuclear documents that Netanyahu During the 2024 presidential campaign, said proved Iran was lying about its Obama visited a Kamala Harris campaign nuclear-weapons activities and was not abiding office in Pittsburgh and said he wanted to “speak by the terms of the deal. The Obama-Netanyahu some truths.” He complained that enthusiasm for relationship became so poisonous that a senior Harris was weaker than when he ran and said the Obama administration official reportedly called problem “seems to be more pronounced with the Netanyahu “chickens---.” The White House distanced brothers.” itself from the insult, but the hostility between the “You’re coming up with all kinds of reasons and two leaders was no secret. excuses. I’ve got a problem with that,” Obama said, What explains El-Sayed’s weakness among black suggesting some black men “just aren’t feeling the primary voters? In 2020, he explicitly said, “I believe idea of having a woman as president.” we need to defund the police.” Polls show blacks Apparently, some of “the brothers” remained want the level of policing in their communities unpersuaded. Pew Research Center’s validated-voter to remain the same, if not increased. Blacks are analysis later estimated that 21% of black men disproportionately victims of crime. Tupac Shakur voted for Donald Trump. Nevertheless, Obama will said: “The same crime element that white people are probably go to Michigan and explain to black voters scared of black people are scared of. ... Just because who rejected El-Sayed in the primary why they we black, we get along with the killers? What is that? should vote for him in November. After all, Obama We need protection, too.” and El-Sayed are closely aligned on policy. El-Sayed wants to abolish ICE despite studies Take healthcare. El-Sayed supports Medicare showing a connection between unskilled illegal aliens for All. Obama repeatedly said the ideal healthcare and lower wages and greater unemployment among plan would be single-payer. “If I were starting a black workers in the same skill group. system from scratch,” Obama said in 2009, “then I This brings us back to Obama. El-Sayed needs think that the idea of moving towards a single-payer black voters who did not particularly want him. system could very well make sense.” Near the end Democrats need Michigan to gain control of the of his second term, Obama said, “If I was starting Senate. from scratch, I probably would have supported a So expect the former president to show up. And single-payer system.” Then-Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) when he does, Obama will give “the brothers” a message. You may not have wanted this candidate. called it a goal. Asked in 2013 whether Obamacare was ultimately a step toward single-payer healthcare, His positions may be against your self-interests. But vote for him anyway. Reid answered, “Yes, yes. Absolutely, yes.” Like Obama, El-Sayed chastises “the rich” for “not Larry Elder is a bestselling author and paying their fair share in taxes.” Like Obama, who nationally syndicated radio talk show host. said racism is part of America’s “DNA,” El-Sayed (Copyright 2026 Creators.com) believes racism remains a serious problem.

COLUMN DAVID HARSANYI

If ‘Woke 1’ was ‘crazy,’ what does AOC call the DSA? HEY, REMEMBER that unhinged cultural revolution we launched a few years back? That was insane — amirite? That’s essentially what Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) told ABC News host Jonathan Karl recently, quoting a New York City Council member who describes socialist Wisconsin gubernatorial candidate Francesca Hong’s past tweets about defunding the police and shuttering prisons. “Woke 1 was crazyyyy,” she said with a laugh. The revolution will be sanitized. But as I remember it, “Woke 1” was a high-tech progressive jihad that relied on intimidation, public shaming and economic ruin to dictate what words and ideas were permissible in the public square. Words had long been tantamount to “violence” on the socialist Left. Now, silence was also violence. Woke 1 is when my local lawn care company was sending out emails promising to dedicate itself to Black Lives Matter, lest some deranged 22-year-old with rainbow hair accuse them of harboring counterrevolutionary sympathies and drag them into a struggle session. Every thinking person changes their views as they learn and grow. Elected officials and others involved in public discourse, though, surely have some duty to explain why. What was your intellectual evolution on wokeism? And what was Woke 1? Only days after Democrats took a beating in the 2024 election, Ocasio-Cortez removed “she/ her” pronouns from her social media accounts, which doesn’t exactly scream of authenticity. So is using your “preferred pronouns” crazy? Is adopting pronouns that don’t match your “gender assigned at birth” crazy? Is using nonbinary pronouns crazy? Is performing “gender-affirming care,” needless life-altering surgery on confused children that destroys their development, crazy? Is it crazy to let biological males play in girls’ sports? What part was crazy? Ocasio-Cortez was a gung-ho supporter of virtually every ideological element of the past 10 years. “Woke,” she once argued, was nothing more than a term pundits used as a “derogatory euphemism” for “civil rights” and progressive notions of “justice.” Does Ocasio-Cortez now oppose DEI initiatives and racial quotas? Does she support Black Lives Matter, a movement that sparked the most expensive and prolonged domestic destruction in American history, including looting, rioting, arson and homicide? BLM is an objectively racist movement that judges people on color rather than achievement. Is that crazy? Does Ocasio-Cortez believe that reparations, which she’s supported, are crazy? What about land acknowledgments? Crazy? Let’s not forget, Ocasio-Cortez hatched a “social justice” environmental policy that not only called for the elimination of all fossil fuel energy production by 2029 but also for replacing every “combustion-engine vehicle” — trucks, airplanes, boats and 99% of cars — in the United States. Her Green New Deal would have compelled us to “retrofit every building in America” and build “high-speed rail at a scale” that would eliminate all air travel. The plan offered government-guaranteed “family-sustaining wage, family and medical leave, vacations and a pension,” “safe, affordable, adequate housing” and “economic security” for all who are “unable or unwilling” to work. I’m not sure if that’s Woke 1 — but it’s definitely crazy. If Ocasio-Cortez abandons the ideas she championed to deal with an alleged crisis that could destroy the Earth in 10 years, now three years and counting, what does that say about her ability to evaluate crises and offer practical solutions moving forward? If Woke 1 was crazy because of its approach, but not its content, then we are back where we started. More than any of that, referring to a “Woke 1” strongly insinuates that a Woke 2 or Woke 3 exists and that it is a more reasonable iteration of this ideology. But it’s probably worse. Ocasio-Cortez was the first elected official, along with Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.), to appear on Hasan Piker’s livestream. Is Woke 2 normalizing terrorist-loving, Mao Zedong-adulating streamers? Her first appearance on Piker’s show happened during peak Woke 1, Oct. 20, 2020. She appeared another three times to chat it up with a guy who had already argued that her New York constituents deserved 9/11. Ocasio-Cortez supports the same candidates as Piker. The New York congresswoman is still a member of the Democratic Socialists of America, which advocates nationalizing private corporations, the energy and transportation sectors and all natural resources. Woke 2? The DSA wants a new constitution that eliminates the presidency, the Supreme Court and the Senate. It supports universal suffrage for noncitizens and felons. Is that crazy? And what kind of crazy awaits us when Woke 2 gets its hands on state power? Someone should ask Ocasio-Cortez. David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. He is a nationally syndicated columnist and author. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

NATION & WORLD Police investigate the scene of a shooting on the campus of Virginia State University on Saturday in Petersburg, Virginia.

Fauci declines request to appear before second Senate panel Washington, D.C. Dr. Anthony Fauci on Friday declined a request to appear voluntarily before a second Senate panel after majority Republicans on the Homeland Security Committee voted along partisan lines last week to hold the longtime infectious disease expert in contempt. In a pointed letter to Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), a lawyer for the former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases said any effort to compel him to appear before a Senate subcommittee, after a contentious July 29 hearing, would be to “impermissibly harass or degrade Dr. Fauci for political purposes.”

At least 5 dead after severe weather in Ind. Noblesville, Ind. Indiana authorities said at least five people have died following severe storms and flooding across the state that caused rising waters along rivers in the state. Indiana was hammered last week by heavy rains resulting in rivers reaching record levels and sending residents in search of higher ground. More than a dozen counties have declared local disasters, with much of the latest damage concentrated along river corridors from Hamilton County heading into the northern Indianapolis suburbs. President Donald Trump approved an emergency declaration for Indiana, and federal disaster assistance is available to the state, the Federal Emergency Management Agency said Saturday.

Rescuers search for survivors after Indonesia quake Labuan Bajo, Indonesia Searchers dug through collapsed buildings and landslide debris last weekend in eastern Indonesia as they searched for bodies and possible survivors after a 7.7-magnitude earthquake killed at least 47 people, injured more than 100 and displaced thousands. At least 24 people died in Manggarai regency and 17 in neighboring East Manggarai, with additional fatalities reported in Sikka, Ngada and Ende regencies, the National Disaster Management Agency said. Rescuers were still searching for villagers feared buried beneath landslides triggered by the quake across six regencies on Flores, a predominantly Catholic island in Muslim-majority Indonesia.

Dozens dead following Zimbabwe ferry disaster Harare, Zimbabwe Eighteen children were among more than 70 people killed when an overloaded ferry capsized on Lake Kariba in Zimbabwe this week, police said Saturday after rescuers recovered more bodies. The ferry capsized in strong waves last Tuesday. Police said that 26 more bodies had been recovered since then, bringing the death toll to 72. The aging ferry was traveling from the town of Kariba to rural and fishing communities in the country’s northwest, where roads are damaged and public transportation is scarce.

WWBT VIA AP

Police arrest 19-year-old following Virginia State University shooting Five people were injured after the campus attack By Patrick Whittle The Associated Press POLICE ARRESTED a 19-year-old found hiding in a dormitory closet at Virginia State University on Saturday in connection with an overnight shooting on campus that left five people wounded, including one with critical injuries. Camron Harris of Henrico, Virginia, is not a student on campus, nor were four of the people injured, Chesterfield County Police said in a statement. They ranged in age from 17 to 23. One of the injured, a 20-year-old, is a student and has been released from the hospital, authorities said. The victims’ names have not been released. Authorities have given no information about a possible motive. Police obtained eight felony warrants for Harris, including for malicious wounding and the use of a firearm in the commission of a felony. It wasn’t im-

AUDIT from page A1 to monitor and manage the program.” The LOGO Program manages the blue highway signs along state roadways, providing directions to qualifying gas stations, electric vehicle charging stations, restaurants, hotels and motels, camping sites and businesses. On July 1, 2025, the LOGO Program was privatized by the North Carolina Signing Program (NCSP), with the contract running for eight years and having an option of two two-year extensions. NCSP has stated it will provide a minimum total to the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) of $55 million after the contract. The program will continue to be overseen by the NCDOT. Prior to privatization, the LOGO Program had 981 overdue payments totaling about $1.2 million. The overdue payments came from businesses that are required to pay an annual fee of $300 per sign when participating in the program. When the program was privatized, NCDOT refunded businesses to facilitate the transition to NCSP, which totaled more than $1.7 million. The Office of the State Auditor (OSA) also found that NCDOT kept insufficient records while operating the LOGO Program. Certain contracts could not be located within NCDOT’s system, and certain records could not be produced for the auditor’s office. The OSA attributed the issue to a lack of standardized record-keeping procedures.

mediately clear if he had an attorney who could speak on his behalf. Efforts to reach Harris’ family by phone were unsuccessful. The university said in an earlier statement that authorities were searching for multiple suspects, but police provided no additional information Saturday evening about the search. University officials said earlier in the day that law enforcement did not believe there was an immediate threat to the campus community, and a campus lockdown had been lifted. The shooting, just after 1:30 a.m. Saturday, prompted a campus lockdown and came as students were getting ready for the new school year. It happened near the university’s Quad Annexes, where campus police and Chesterfield County officers discovered five people suffering from gunshot wounds outside campus dormitories. According to the university’s website, residence halls opened for students a week ago, and classes resumed Monday. Many

students had just completed the university’s “New Trojans Experience” for incoming students. “We recognize the concern this incident has caused among our students, parents, alumni, friends, and the broader VSU community,” the university statement said. “The safety and well-being of our students remain our highest priority.” The campus had a large law enforcement presence Saturday morning, and the university informed students that they should monitor their email for additional safety measures and information about support services. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Hanover County

Sheriff’s Office were assisting, county police said. Virginia State University is a historically black university located in Ettrick, Virginia, about 24 miles south of the state capital of Richmond. The public university has about 5,700 students and was the first fully state-supported four-year college for black Americans. Most of its students are undergraduates. The university has grown in recent years while attempting to improve safety and retain its historic charm, said Arthur Fridrich, the university’s former director of distance education, who lives near the campus and visits regularly. A shooting like this just as students return for classes is heartbreaking for the community, he said. “To start a new year with this event is very tragic. It casts a shadow in the minds of all students, and for some it will be difficult to rid their minds of this term,” Fridrich said. “For those that were shot, my heart bleeds. I hope that they all mend and somehow do not let this event define their lives.”

The auditor’s office looked at LOGO’s revenues and expenditures, finding that some divisions within NCDOT ran at a deficit based on fiscal year profits. Several divisions operated at negative yearly profits (see chart). Additionally, sign installation would take anywhere from six to 12 months. Payments to contractors under purchase orders accounted for most expenditures under the LOGO Program. OSA recommended NCDOT monitor payments received and refunds issued by NCSP, implement a department-wide policy on record keeping, develop a list of LOGO sign locations and thoroughly review the NCSP while implementing recommendations given. In its response letter, NCDOT attributed several of OSA’s findings to confusion in changing program management. NCSP was stated to work on maximizing revenue by reviewing its marketing operations and attracting more participants. NCDOT disagreed with a lack of a standardized system but agreed with the need for consistent statewide procedures for record keeping. It also acknowledged that, while information was available concerning the highway, exit number and logo category, the formatting made conversion to a graphical map difficult. NCSP developed an interactive LOGO locator map, which provides information on businesses participating in the program. In the past, NCDOT’s spending has been checkered. The

Mid-Currituck Bridge project, overseen by NCDOT, recently faced delays and a funding shortfall, having spent more than $61 million across 30 years. Another financial loss occurred when NCDOT purchased vintage rail cars from Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. The rail cars sat idle and were eventually sold at a loss. In 2020, two critical performance audits revealed overspending of $742 million and improper salary raises. The audits prompted former State Treasurer Dale Folwell to call for the replacement of the agency’s chief financial officer and chief operating officer. The chief operating officer announced his departure short-

ly after, with the chief financial officer retaining his position. A hearing evaluating the overspending audit was also held, with a second hearing discussing the awareness NCDOT officials had of the overspending. Following the hearings, oversight legislation was passed to monitor spending plans and tighten financial approvals. In a 2024 audit and a 2025 audit, NCDOT was found to have maintained its spending plans. The secretary of Transportation oversees and runs NCDOT. Joey R. Hopkins was appointed by Gov. Roy Cooper to replace Secretary Eric Boyette in 2023. In 2025, Gov. Josh Stein appointed Daniel H. Johnson to replace Hopkins after his retirement.

“The safety and well-being of our students remain our highest priority.” Virginia State University statement

ask questions about when A7 How China will payIt’s forokay this to COVID-19 catastrophe we begin to get back to normal A7 Innovative solutions business economy to the student debt dilemma North State Journal for Wednesday, April 15, 2020

North State Journal Thursday, August 20, 2026 manner in which China lied about the origin of the ONE THING IS CERTAIN; after this COVID-19 virusfor dissipates The cavalier virus, covered up its spread and tried to tell the world there were only catastrophe one way or another. 3,341 related deaths has led to worldwide panic, economic collapse and either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home fallen into place. I under In order to put the crisis caused by China in perspective,WITH zero MOST STATES millionsunder of Americans needlessly being thrown out of work. orders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans to take precautions, but worldwide pandemics can trace their source to the United States over The crisis has cost the U.S. taxpayer at least $2.4 trillion in added are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.” questions our 231-year history. At least four in the 20th century alone can be debt plus trillions more in Federal Reserve backup liquidity to the about the data Some of these orders extend least through the of this month. are treated in so directly traced to China: 1957 “Asian flu,” 1968 “Hong Kong flu,” 1977 markets andatfinancial outlets. If end the U.S. dollar were notnormal the reserve Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June. They’re treated as thou “Russian flu” and the 2002 SARS outbreak. There is evidence that the currency, we would not be able to fund any of these emergency Perhaps WALTER E. WILLIAMS Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during question what massive 1918 “Spanish flu” pandemic also had its origins in China. measures without immediate fear of rampant inflation and currency the govern COVID-19 a recent coronavirus press briefing that “we just don’t know yet” if the process of returning bac There is 100% agreement, outside of China, that COVID-19 depreciation. is China’s state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May. No. The government w originated in Wuhan Province probably from thedid completely China has to pay for their aberrant ways and decisions through Since when Chernobyl. If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked as to the questions. And the longe unregulated and unsanitary wetarticles markets. Some believe it came out of but a iseconomic means. graduates only able toand findfinancial low-paying work. Diplomacy has obviously not worked I explained in two past that student debt is questioning justification for it. And the answers should not be vague ones like “we country, and biowarfare labproblem run by the Chinese army. to bring China intoowe theancivilized Under an ISA agreement, he would agreed- world of 21st century health, hygienethe stricter a real and communist that universities have encouraged government must do this out of an abundance of caution.” thethe more people, sitting Until China adopts verifiablebehavior. policing With and regulation fair trade.—Totalitarian communist regimes never take blame uponof percentageand of his income the actual dollar it through theirrigorous own irresponsible at all levels It will need to be explained in detail to the people of this state who when they can get back t amount would be very low. With a traditional loan, new college graduates facing an uncertain financial their food safety and health protocols, American business has no other or express sincere regret and remorse, because that is not what he would owe the same amount regardless of his future, so it’s particularly important to find solutions are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined answers. choice than to build redundant manufacturing become a plants elsewhere purely totalitarian governments do. They take advantage of every weakness Evenwhy with income-based repayment onkeep his thatsecurity work. So,and what’s to bereasons done? as well as supplyamount of time models predicting hundreds of thousands of cases at the local an for national safety andincome. delivery they find in adversaries and pushing until they win orLeaders the thing? loan, he would likely make interest-only payments as Some radical proposals, likebad completely are reliable. can be with those answe reliabilityprivatizing concerns.student loans and making them subject adversaries push back. the principal continued to mount. AMERICA’S COLLEGES are rife with That is what To date, I’ve gone along with what the state has asked and then with details that give the The most direct wayprotection, to make China for work. this disaster is Purdue to offerUniversity That is, unless an exogenous event happens such asThe thefinancial Chernobyl is already experimenting with to bankruptcy would “pay” certainly corruption. squeeze resultin Income Share free citizens mandated that we do, but along the way I’ve also had questions about We should U.S. tax credits to companies will at half of ISAs theirunder its “Back meltdown in plan. 1986.The Some experts event, not the Staropportunities Warsall continue Local governments a Boiler” program is believe that Private lenders who putwho their ownsource money onleast the line from COVID-19 offers for a primarily to e-bikes, reflectSponsored by Agreements the data. State Republican leaders have, too. ourselves, and our comm production back the United States. There is approximately $120 program of Reagan, led directly to the dissolution of the Soviet Union being funded by the Purdue Research Foundation, doin due diligence before lending to 18-yearbit of remediation. Let’s first examine wha living in a free are adjusting ruleswould ing growing demand for elecwhen certain types It’s of questions get asked, there to of ask questions about th part of the university’s endowment. a small old customers. And direct the fear of students in filing for and Unfortunately, mightisbe the root academic corruption, billiontoworth of American investment plants equipment in 1989. are andcontractual incentives tric-assisted cycling. society were but is already showing positive results. would ensure that loans small and sometimes title of a recent study, disturbing tendency among some people to treatsuggested those by the measures are understan in in China. Chinese direct investment in theare U.S. is about $65 program billion abynow Perhaps COVID-19 is China’s Chernobyl. North State Journal spoke accommodate thebankruptcy trend agreements supposed Purdue’s website explains a few of the benefits of prudent. “Academic Grievance Studies and theAme simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting back This is all new to with Conte’s general managcomparison. Senators in Washington are already talking about the possibility ISAs: as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people But such aersolution is politically unpopular. Corruption of Scholarship.” The study was which students Michael Frazier about the to do, last I to normal who shape, or form. So while An investment tax credit ofreduce 30% on half of U.S. investment in China of China period forgiving $1.2Back trillion in debt we owe them as one way toand get analysis The standard payment for the It would considerably the number of done by Areo, an opinion company’s the rise of By Elizabeth Lincicome receive otherwise don’t care ifisthey themselves or itothers sick. same time we should today, orstudents $60 billion, applied tohistory, repatriated manufacturing China to get “pay” for the damage they have caused US. the Don’t hold your checked. a Boiler-ISA Fund about 10 years, making ablee-bikes to borrow for college andAmerican would digitalthe magazine. By the way, Areo is shor and cycling’s appeal. For North State Journal Since when did questioning government at all levels become a bad normal.” to the U.S. would cost the U.S. Treasury $18 billion in waitingPlus for and a Chinese to happen but ask your elected education investment competitive withbreath most Federal private “Jubilee” loan disproportionately affect low-income students. It for Areopagitica, a speech delivered by thing? ThatInisaddition, whatrepresentatives free citizens living ina asix-month free society were supposed Not one little bit. tax revenue spread over a few years. $18 billion in lost revenue is to hold China accountable in tangible financial ways for terms. all students receive would also disfavor students majoring in soft but John Milton in defense of free speech. funding in — The Triangle What is the backstory RALEIGH to do, last I checked. grace period post-graduation before payments begin. trendy disciplines. Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A. decimal dust compared to the $6 trillion+ this disaster. Bike Shop?Marshall Plan we are now has seen a surge in e-bike use of Conte’s exchange for a Once a recipient makes successful payments for But there are solutions that can be implemented — Lindsay and Peter Boghossian say that My first concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. I’m Stacey Matthews has als undertaking to save our own economy, not of defeated enemies as in the It is about time they are expected to operate as responsible citizens of in recent years, with Raleigh’s the prescribed term of the contract, no additional even in this acrimonious political climate. something has gone drastically wrong predetermined worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After and is a regular contribu Charles R. Conte Sr. opened dockless bikeshare program past. the world like any other modern nation. payments even if(swine they have lessthe 2009 pandemic, The first solution been referred to as “skin in suffering in academia, especially within certain the firsthas Conte’s family-owned recording more than 5,500 fromare therequired H1N1 virus flu)paid during China has been cheating, stealing, pirating and pillaging American percent than the amount of funding they received. the game.” Such a policy would call for institutions fields within the humanities. They call bicycle store in Newport News, e-bike trips business in a singlenow month. I’ve been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings up “grievance fora the past 30 years. They have made no secret that APEX — Australian defense Boththey ISAs and skin in the game policies would to have share in the credit risk of every student these fields studies,” where of Under post- North Carolina Virginia, in 1957. Conte, the law, PHOTO COURTESY CONTE’S BIKE SHOP RIDGEWOOD way too many memories of a painful experience I’ d prefer not to repeat. intend towho replace the U.S. astothe premier superpower in the world and down-stream benefits. Both would put contractor Silentium has selected have many takes out a loan attend the institution. In scholarship is not so much based upon an electric-assisted bicycle has son of Italian immigrants, was graduation Apex for its North American But what also makes metolose sleep is how easily most everyone has replace the dollar as the reserve currency with their renminbi. pressure on universities keep tuition low and practice, this means that universities would be on finding truth but upon attending to fully operable pedals, a mo- a machinist at a nearby ship- The Brennan Station Conte’s Bike Shop in North Raleigh COLUMN | JENNA around the globeROBINSON and in the United States, China will pay for this

&

Triangle e-bike surge prompts Conte’s to shift Raleigh store toward electric bikes

Fixing college n.c. corruption FAST

FACTS

Silentium picks Apex for North American headquarters Approved Logos

income over a offset some of of theacoustic artificialand pressure on demand for the hook somewhen part of debt when hestudent openedloan the small tor of no more than 750 wattsfor yard offers a wide selection e-bikes. higher education. They would also align universities’ students default. Such a policy would require action certain number motor-pow- neighborhood bicycle and reand a maximum interests with those of students. Universities would by Congress sinceshop. student loans are disbursed by the pair ered speed of 20 mph on a levof years. be invested in student success, not justthink increased federal government. Why do you

headquarters, addingGrievance another social grievances. scholars international company to North bully students, administrators and other Carolina’s growing defense and departments into adhering to their aerospace industry. worldview. Thewhich worldview they promote is The company, develops He ran the shop based on Whether it’s recreational, just el surface. EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS enrollment. Some universities would probably begin But another solution can be implemented locally. neither scientific nor rigorous. Grievance passive radar technology capable The growth has prompted his love of bicycles and his vi- for fun or more utilitarian and cycling becomes so to offer better guidance to studentsfor when they choose number ofsion institutions are already giving studies consist disciplines of tracking aircraft,ofdrones and such as people? there addictive of providing personal ser-it atransportation-focused, local governments toA address majors,e-bike choose classes and take out loans. try: Income Agreements (ISAs). ISAs areare now viable other objectsanthropology, without emittinggender a sociology, studies, options vice and top-quality products where e-bikes and similar vehi- Share detectable signal,sexuality officially opened These innovative solutions will do what “Free contractual agreements in which students receive queer studies, and critical race Cycling is the most fun carcles can be ridden. In January, he could personally guarantee. for pretty much any type of the Wake County operation last universities exchange for a for predetermined studies. dio thatand I know of. There’s the Conte’sinbecame known pro- riding. College” cannot: make students Wake Forest updatededucation its rules funding Tuesday. behave act together percent of post-graduation income a certain Whether In 2017 and 2018, authors Pluckrose, in yourtowards face andthe the abilit’s more local wisely collegeand wind viding customers with aover buying to prohibit motorized scootSilentium plans to employ goal. That goal is to of years. The percent of income and number Lindsay and Boghossian started itycreate to seeeducated, more, gowise farther, go students atsame Meredith, NC State experience designed to turn ers, electric bicycles number and elecbetween 30 and 50 people in Apex and productive graduates. Only with smart policies years can change based upon a student’s submitting bogus academic papers to faster and burn calories. There andandWilliam Peace, young first-time customers into cus-major tric-assisted bicycles ofon sideby next summer. that incentivize success weofensure that potential. academic journals inspinout cultural, Founded in 2017 as a fromqueer, also can a ton mental health families with little ones student who are tomers for life. walks while allowingincome them on colleges provide for students, parents, ISAs are a good deal Bike for students because race, gender, fatresearch and sexuality Australia’s military sector, studies benefits. It’s a proven stress rearen’t quite ready truly to ride their value Conte’s Shop has also they town greenways, parks and andretirees society. ducer and, in my experience, a less riskybeen than selected loans. Imagine a student to determine they would pass peer Silentium works if with government own bikestaxpayers yet or active 10 times for the who multiuse paths with aare 10-mph WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home fallen into place. I understand the seriousness of the virus and the review and be accepted for publication. and commercial customers. In need speed limit. Holly Springs al- National Bicycle Dealers Asso- who enjoy the hills more when form of active meditation. the United States, the company Acceptance of dubious research orders e-bikes thanks to or state governments, a majority of Americans tothe take precautions, I’m uneasy people who simply ask that I’ve lived inbut Raleigh for 26with how they’re flattened out a little, ciation’s Top 100 Best Bicycle lows qualifying onlocal serves as a subcontractor on journal editors found sympathetic to their are having tomuladjust Retailers to what is being called the “newe-bike normal.” questions about data,I and whenI thingsalso can start getting back to years, andthe when arrived, universe has something designation. sidewalks, greenways and military projects. or postmodern leftist vision intersectional was introduced to what was alfor everyone. tiuse paths. Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. normal are treated in some circles with contempt. ofCompany the worldleaders wouldconsidered prove the problem of With demand continu- ready a world-class greenway did Conte’s decide Raleigh has also used finan- Whyorders Virginia’s stay-at-home go into June. simply must accept Huntsville, Alabama, beforewithout GUEST OPINION | JEFF TARTE, FORMER NC STATE SENATOR They’re treated as though we as a society low academic standards. It’s government only gotten better ing tostated grow in 2026, we question tran- system. to shiftDemocratic the Ridgewood cial incentivesHere to in encourage selecting theit’s Triangle, citing its the North Carolina, Gov. Roy Cooper during what the tells us about when safefake to begin Several of the research papers sitioned our Ridgewood store and longer since then. location primarily to purchases. a The city reopened workforce, universities, research recent coronavirus press briefing that “we just don’t know yet” if the process of returning back to normalcy. institutions were accepted for publication. The Fat and proximity to With our current 117 miles of into primarily an e-bike store, its E-Bike Rebate Program e-bikes, and what does state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May. No. The government works for us, and we have the right to ask those Studies journal published a hoax paper potential customers. Since when did along with children’s bikes paved greenway, you can safein May, offering $500 stan- that say about demand that argued the was term bodybuilding was “North absolutely Ifand he does decide to extend it, questions should beand asked as to the department questions. And the longer stay-at-home orders areCarolina in place all over the ly go almost anywhere around a full-service in the Triangle? dard vouchers $1,500 inquestioning the top of the pile,” Silentium exclusionary and should be replaced justification it. And the answers should not be vague onesacoustic like “weand electric country,Raleigh and the of them —stricter the N.C.some Museum of get in states, such as Michigan, for both come-qualified vouchersforfor co-founder and CEO James Palmer with “fat bodybuilding, as a fat-inclusive government Art, Umstead State ShelThe decision to convert bikes. households must earning no more do this out of an abundance of caution.” the more people, sitting atPark, home feeling isolated and/or anxious about said. “It just offered so much inOne reviewer politicized performance.” ley Lake, downtown, the Neuse Our Brennan Station and our Ridgewood location into than 80% of the area median at all levels It will need to be explained in detail tohave the been people of this state whoElderlywhen they can get back conditions to providing for their families, will demand terms to customers and in place.continue persons with and underlying said, of “I access thoroughly enjoyed reading this AS A FORMER state senator, Istore asked even Clayton. Cary locations to River an e-bike-specific wasan income. talent.” beingmany told to remain jobless and at home the for undetermined answers. become a Recipientsarecould would be monitored by health teams for some time, article and believe it has an important times what I would do regarding stay-atAs far as our urban areas a rather easy one. At the be- stock a healthy mix of e-bikes use the The comes as North amount of timeorder whyinmodels predicting hundreds of thousands of casestelemedicine Leaders atvirtual the local and state levels should beexpansion as forthcoming as they leveraging and hospitals. contribution to make to the field and this home North Carolina. The current SAH vouchers at participating Ra- ginning of 2025, that location and acoustic bikes, including are concerned, there were few, bad thing? Carolina makes a larger push are reliable. can be with those answers — and again, not vague answers, but answer Led by our major health system leaders and journal.” order expires on April 29. to attract defense technology leigh bike shops, includ- was selling almost twice as hybrids, gravel, road, moun- if any, bike lanes back in 2001. That is what the Northbicycles. Carolina Association, I would “Our Struggle Is My Struggle: Solidarit One state many senator recently said we are has going to and To date, gone along with what theas state asked andchildren’s then withHospital details that their statements companies and investment. U.S. I’m of thegive opinion that Ra- believability. tain electric bikes “acousing Conte’s Bike ShopI’ve locahave a master plan with primary suppliers and a Feminism as an Intersectional Reply to need to know four things: who is sick, who is not, Rep. Pat Harrigan, a Republican who free citizens mandated thatand we do, along way I’vegrew also had We questions about We should all done continue to do what leigh has an amazing job we can to keep our families, also share inventory betic”but bikes, andthe that trend tions at Brennan Station backup plan for manufacturers in N.C. to re-purpose Neoliberal and Choice Feminism,” was who has been sick and who has not. I agree. Public serves on the House Armed Services of changing that, with a large tween locations. If you’re shopstronger as the year went on. Ridgewood. the data. State Republican leaders have, too. ourselves, and our communities safe. But we should also still continue living in a free Committee, said the state hasby Affilia, a facilities to and produce ventilators PPElanes necessary accepted for publication experts are coalescing around benchmarks toat Ridgewood numberand ofabout bike now runping your Itcertain became clear that the get Conte’s hasUnfortunately, three health Triangle when types of questions asked, there is to ask questions the data, because while reasonable stay-at-home attracted $5 billion infor new defense to take care of our own demands. An ongoing needs feminist journal social workers. The follow before rules ease: sustained reductions in new society were through residential areas, dream bikethose is only in stock at ning and needs of our comlocations — sometimes two and wants a disturbing tendency among some people to treat measures are understandable, they shouldinvestment also have an expiration As long as a in Raleigh during the past year. assessment would evaluate the re-purposing of paper consisted in part of adate. rewritten cases and deaths, widespread testing, ample hospital around NC State and through our Williamsburg, Virginia, munity were shifting in a one in Cary. Its Ridgewood losupposed North Carolina isin already home simply questioning the data and asking when we can and start getting back This is all new to Americans, and it is not normal. Not any way,Two other hotels, empty warehouses and university dorms passage from Mein Kampf. capacity and the ability to monitor new patients business could downtown. cation has shifted its focus more e-bike-centric direction. store, we’ll get it for you. major Army, Marine Corps and to do, last I to normaltrace as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who shape, or form. So while we should remaintohoax vigilant and stay safe, at including as emergency field hospitals in conjunction with papers were published, their contacts. Air Force installations, along with demonstrate deployment strategies for health care professionals. “Rape Culture and Queer Performativity These are reasonable data points that should serve otherwise don’t care if they get themselves or others sick. the same time we shouldn’t get comfortable with this so-called “new checked. a large population of veterans and Virtual hospitals and direct primary care options at Urban Dog Parks.” This paper’s subject as a foundation to make decisions to keep everyone the ability toSince when did questioning government at all levels become a bad normal.” active-duty military personnel. Wake would be made available through every health was dog-on-dog rape. But the dog rape safe. We are not going back to full normal any time County alone had more than 54,000 thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed Not one little bit. follow sound paper eventually soon. We are not reopening everything tomorrow. We system. Ongoing testing would be implemented. veterans in 2025. forced Boghossian, I checked. Covid-19 to do, lastmust Silentium’s technology Rigorous statewide antibody testing would bean investPluckrose and Lindsayisto prematurely out take care of our most vulnerable citizens, and growth strategy and My first concern as we go along all this, ofnow. course, is my implemented family. I’m once Stacey Matthews has also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah designed around what company available. themselves. A Wall Street Journal writer we must begin to reopen ourinbusinesses, hygiene, they ment in the PGA Tour’s new officials describe aswhat the ability to worried about catching the of virus, I’m—worried and is other a regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection. In conjunction with regional governors had figured out they were doing. I amthem following a couple data and models Fuller, I will. After competitive model. “seeSome without being seen.” would be sufferingHolmes from the H1N1 virusThe (swine flu)project during thecases 2009 pandemic, and cooperation with the White House, I would papers accepted for publication and the CDC. models N.C. Raymond James CEO Paul conventional radar, which allocation of items such inUnlike academic journals advocated training peak to between April precautions, 20 and May 5.because all of this ensure trying take extra brings N.C. up receives a fair allowed toI’ve beento Shoukry called the agreement sends out signals and measures to ensure we men like dogs and punishing white male I would do the following: I would not extend way too many memories of a painful experience I’d prefer notastoventilators repeat. from national an stores “important investment in what returns, passive radar uses re-enter the can address any peak scenario. There would be a collegeelectromagnetic students for historical the SAH order past April 29 without compelling existing signals slavery by the future of our firm and the But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has standing directive for rapid response to enable theto the asking them to sitobjects. in silence on the floor in data showing its necessity. It is imperative to keep economy. to identify and track PGA Tour” and pointed use of FDA-approved drugs that are experimental in chains during class andfrom to be expected to Covid-19 hygiene place: such as social Silentium’s products range The Wyndham strength of the Piedmont Triad 23 tomeasures 24 events,inincluding The relation to a pandemic virus. learn from the that discomfort. Other papers distancing, gathering limits, masks, hand washing, portable systems can be carried Charitable Foundation, which Players Championship, the Championship will by soldiers tomorbid larger sensors capable As long as a business could demonstrate the ability celebrated obesity as a healthy life etc. operates the tournament. four major championships, the become GO by of detecting objects in low treating Earth to follow sound Covid-19 hygiene, they would be choice and advocated privately The dates postseason to lift and reduce or continue on-going The foundation has long and internationRaymond James restrictions need to be determined orbit. allowed to re-enter the economy. wouldas lean into conducted masturbation as a form of using scientific used theI event a fundraisal team events. Championship The technology has gained exercising a little common on for what works and sexual violence against women. Typically, evidence. Suspending and, more concerning, ingsense vehicle programs across Series tournaments will offer importance as inexpensive drones what is appropriate. Restrictions couldCarolina, be lessened as academic journal editors send submitted violation of individual rights are central North particpurses of constitutional at least $20 million and other unmanned systems the four benchmarks indicate is safe involving to do so. youth, papers aout to referees for review. In dangerous exercises regardless of reason. ularlyitthose and fields of about 120 playbecome larger part of military By Dan Reeves North Carolina needs to get back to work. recommending acceptance for publication Our businesses are on life support. It is imperative operations. education and community deers drawn from the tour’s top North State Journal For the next 18 months, I would monitor data promany reviewers these papers glowing to get them opened. 500,000 North Carolinians Silentium’s movegave also adds velopment. Its backpack performers. while reserving the rightgram to return strongermore than praise. signed up A forseparate unemployment in the past three an international component to has to provided Challenger Series GREENSBORO — have For nearNorth Carolina’s defenseZach growth. restrictions if necessary. I would put in place a Political scientist Goldberg ran weeks. Data indicate N.C. will have 50% of its small 1 million meals to Triad famly nine decades, Greensboro’s will feature at least 20 events Australian Embassy representative special team of medical, ilies, data analytics and businessprocertain grievance studies concepts throug under $10M) at qualifying while tournament with purses starting $4 mil- for PGA Tour stop has businesses survived (revenue Amy Beck said the relationship leaders to provide insights andhave advice. standard the Lexis/Nexis database, to see how often if theycreating stay closed through May 15. I ceeds alsoThe supported First what amounts sponsor changes, bankruptcy, schedule lion, between the United and over the years. channels with DHHS and County Public Health they appeared inStates our press wouldgolf begin to opening in less Tour impacted Tee-Triad and other charitable two businesses levels of PGA moves and a professional Australia increasingly extends Officials would continue. I would conduct briefings He found huge increases in the usages counties today. efforts. landscape that bears little re- competition. beyond traditional military with stakeholder groups of government, medical of “white privilege,” “unconscious bias,” I would categorize N.C. citizens into four groups: That local connection has For Greensboro and the semblance to the one it joined cooperation. and business leaders from across the state, including “critical race theory” tested positive for Covid-19, and in “Increasingly, it’s deepand “whiteness.” remained even as the name on Piedmont Triad,hospitalized landing on the in 1938. CHUCK BURTON PHOTO and municipal folks (elected federal, state,/ AP county All of this isbetween being taught to college critical condition, and have collaboration our defense the tournament changed. upperimmunocompromised level is significant. Now instead of simply surand non-elected). I would share the collective and students, many of whom become not tested positive, and finally, healthy individuals industries, research institutions and primary It was the Greater GreensIt ensures that a tourna- Michael Brennan kisses the viving another change, Greensvarying opinions the public. and secondary schoolBeck teachers tested positive. These groups technology innovators,” said who then borogroups Open with for decades before that has been part of theneed boro is moving up. who have notment trophy after winning the from these during the Apexour opening. We need hyper transparency in thisthe matter. indoctrinate young people. tailoredat plans on whoidentity and how since we willbefore care for Wyndham them. becoming Chrysler Clasregion’s The longtime tournament Championship For Silentium, the Triangle Politicians time, exceptand whenlater I doubt whether the coronavirusWewill need parameters rules to protect sicalloftheGreensboro World Warand II remains tied to thegolf tournament Sedgefield Country Club in get ridiculed provides base to grow that work we need them decisions. So I caused afinancial crunch will in give college vulnerable. at-riskmost residents, thoseGreensboro in the Wyndham Championship the highest PGA Tour’s promibecome part of the PGA Tour’s The on Aug. 9. to make monumental the U.S. market while tapping into a who are a ask each of you reading along — What would you do? and university administrators, nursing homes and prisons, would see tight rules stay in 2007. The tournament renew Championship Series in nent players, largest purses and region already known for technology crossbreed between a parrot and jellyfish, turned to Sedgefield Country 2028, placing one of North national television exposure at and research. the and backbone to restore academi Itsguts arrival gives Wake County Carolina’s oldest profession- a time when the tour is reshap- has helped make the tourna- Club in 2008 after a 31-year respectability. Far too often, they get much another defense technology al sporting events among the ing both its schedule and busi- ment more than a golf event for absence from the Donald of their political support from campus employer and strengthens North the Triad. Tournament week Ross-designed course. top tier of tournaments under ness model. grievance peopledefense who are members of the Carolina’s growing sector. Its history includes some Greensboro is the sixth tour- brings players, sponsors, corthe tour’s revamped competi-

It’s okay to ask questions about when we begin to get back to normal What would you do?

Greensboro golf gets new sponsor, top-tier status in PGA Tour overhaul

tive structure. It will also have nament announced for the porate hospitality, media and of golf’s biggest names. Sam Championship Series, joining spectators to Greensboro while Snead won the inaugural toura new name and title sponsor. Beginning in 2027, the tour- The Sentry, Arnold Palmer In- giving the region days of na- nament and eventually won it nament will be known as GO vitational, Cadillac Champion- tional exposure on CBS, Golf eight times, a PGA Tour record by Raymond James, with the ship, Travelers Championship Channel and the PGA Tour’s for victories in a single event that he still shares with Tiger Florida-based financial ser- and a new tournament spon- other broadcast platforms. The new sponsorship also Woods’ eight wins at the Arvices company replacing Wyn- sored by Sompo. The full 2028 Letters editor may be sentanother to letters@nsjonline.com 3101Invitational. Palmer brings major finan- nold or schedule to andtheGreensboro’s dham as title sponsor. Theaddressed Industrial Suite 105. Letters must be signed; Nearlythe 90 years after Snead’s cial services company into that include position on it Raleigh, have notN.C. been27609. name is a nod to the Greater Dr. first victory, equation. announced. Greensboro Open, the tournawriter’s phone number, city and state; and be no longer than 300 words. Letters the tournament is again borrowing from its Raymond James Ideas Financial, Before thatlength change takes when ment’s original name when it may be edited for style, or clarity necessary. for op-eds should place, GO by Raymond James based in St. Petersburg, Flor- beginnings. was first played in 1938. sent to event opinion@nsjonline.com. Only this time, the old “GO” ida, provides wealth manageThe change brings back will remain abefull-field some of the tournament’s past in 2027. Tournament competi- ment, capital markets, bank- arrives with a new sponsor, a while its future becomes con- tion is scheduled for Aug. 5-8 at ing and asset management much larger purse and someSedgefield, again serving as the services, and reported $1.92 thing Greensboro has spent siderably more valuable. The PGA Tour’s Champion- final regular season stop before trillion in client assets. The generations earning — a guarcompany said the Greensboro anteed place among the PGA ship Series, scheduled to begin the PGA Tour postseason. That familiar August date sponsorship is part of a broader Tour’s biggest events. in 2028, will consist of about

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faculty and diversity and multicultural NSJ administrative offices. The best hope lies with boards of trustees, though many serve as yes-men for the university president. I think that a NCDOT CASH good start would beREPORT to find 1950s or 1960s FOR THELook WEEKat ENDING AUG. 13 catalogs. the course offerings at a time when college graduates knew how Beginning to read, write andCash compute, and make them$2,403,235,629 today’s curricula. Another helpful tool would be to give careful consideration Receiptsall (income) to eliminating classes/majors/minors $125,886,481 containing the word “studies,” such as women, Disbursements Asian, black or queer studies. I’d bet that by restoring the traditional $309,671,333 academic mission to colleges, they would Cashdent Balance put a serious into the COVID-19 budget shortfall. $2,219,390,458 Walter E. Williams is a professor of economics at George Mason University.

A8

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

A6

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Murphy tooManteo North State Journal for Thursday, August 21, 2025

Jones & Blount

North State Journal for Thursday, August 21, 2025

Jones & Blount

Murphy t Manteo

NC college-bound You’re in!

3

As of this month, NCweek, College Connect is rising public high school seniors in This some 63,000 preparing to send offers for the North Carolina are2026-27 receivingschool direct admission letters by mail. year. Every North Carolina school These letterspublic notifyhigh students they’ve already been accepted to senior who is on track to graduate will participate several in-state colleges and universities without 2 and may receive directto admission offersthe from needing apply through traditional participating colleges where to direct process.and Theuniversities letters correspond they meet the admission requirements. Students with for the 2026-27 academic 1 a 2.8 or higheryear GPA,and theinclude required fourth-level a QR code guiding math course and other program requirements students to NCCollegeConnect.org can be directlyto admitted to participating UNC claim their spot. Students with System schools, North Carolina independent a weighted GPA of 2.8 or above at colleges and universities, and their local the end of junior year, plus required community college. Students below a 2.8 GPA coursework including a fourth-level who are on track to graduate can still receive math course, receive streamlined, 1. Western Carolina University direct admission to their local community direct admissions to institutions where Cullowhee college. The program does not require essays, theyletters qualify. 58scores North Carolina recommendation orAll test for these 2. University of North Carolina Asheville community colleges,will 29receive independent direct-admission offers. Students Asheville colleges and universities andin11 UNC their personalized admission information 3. Appalachian State University System participate in the mid-September, whenuniversities the NC College Connect Boone program. will Theuse benefits to students portal opens. Students their CFNC 4. University of North Carolina at Charlotte include: no essays or recommendation account to view their matched colleges and Charlotte application areClaiming often claim spots byletters; completing a shortfees form. during application week; the a spot does notwaived commit students to attending 5. Winston-Salem State University that college, and students claim offers potential for can $500 per semester tuition Winston-Salem from multiple schools. College has at select NC schools; andConnect access to state 6. University of North Carolina at Greensboro already helpedscholarships. more than 23,000 students in the Greensboro Class of 2026 accept direct-admission offers.

5

WEST

7

4

7. North Carolina Central University Durham

8. University of North Carolina at Pembroke Pembroke

9. Fayetteville State University Fayetteville

10. East Carolina University Greenville

11. Elizabeth City State University Elizabeth City

HPU freshmen host

Oklahoma missing dog kids’ bike giveaway found safe in Greensboro

Guilford County High Point University freshmen Asheville is searching for volunteers as Guilford County Avery County bicycles Sunday the city’s Department A Border assembled Collie who150 went missing in A hiker was rescued afterTransportation falling afternoon before surprising Parents killed, children prepares for its annual bicycle and Novant to build new hospital Oklahoma in July has been reunitedlocal 50 feet at Grandfather Mountain, children with the new rides, according pedestrian data collection. This injured in single-car to bridge 40-mile access gap with his owner after turning up roughly Neese’s sausage returnscrash to according to a statement from North Youth to university officials. The children, initiative, held the week following Labor coach sentenced in 1,000 miles away in Greensboro. Carolina Emergency Management. under new ownership child sexual material case from D-Up Inc., Growing the Distancestores Orange County Day, helps identify trends in various Cabarrus County Guilford County Services said Around 2 p.m. last Friday, the State the city and is and the Animal Community Writing Center, Authorities said on Sunday that a activities throughout A new hospital will be built in Cabarrus in the 10-year-old dog, named Guilford County Operations Center Raleigh received Caldwell County invited to the Millis Athletic husband and wife died and two of their usedinfor safety improvement projects, County within the next few years, staff took were Rio, as a stray this week. After scanning Neese’s Country Sausage, Greensboro a call for assistance from Avery County A youth coach from Hudson was and Convocation Center on campus children were injuredain an Orange according to the city. Volunteers can Novant Health said last week. Novant the teamofficials found his generations, is returning Emergency Management. N.C. sentenced tosaid prison last week after for the surprise, said. Earlier staple for County crash along I-85/40 lasttoweek. participate An in two ways: by assisting in an Aug. 14 announcement it for a microchip, — listing an in two store shelves under new ownership, but in the day, students worked The single-car crash happened Friday Helicopter Aquatic Team was countsreceiving abuse material, withRescue bike and pedestrian during child hassexual been approved to build a 50-bedowner’s information to assemble bikes as part production afternoon northtaking I-85/east I-40 near Oklahoma. The the owner said is noon longer place the designated weekwith or by helping community along Trinity address inshifts called in, and ground crews hiked the U.S. Attorney for thehospital Western of an to connect with the U.S. 70 at mile markerfacility 161 when Rio is quite theinitiative escape artist and must at the company’s longtime on a 2018 conduct greenway user surveys on Church Road inannounced. Concord. The facility equipment and medical supplies to District of North Carolina Honda Odyssey wentJesse off the highway the Wilma Dykeman and Reed Nathaniel Creek is expected open in 2030 and willhave be beencommunity. picked up by someone trying Alamance Church Road. Jones the patient, NCEM said. He was safely Willard Byrd,to38, was to acquired the right, hit then of the art” and “energy NSJ to help along the way. Sausage theseveral Neese’strees, brand in went transported to agreenways. nearby hospital, and sentenced to“state 121 months, or about 10 efficient.” down an embankment and struck a The hospital will include an emergency WLOS recent months. The new owners said the there have been no updates on his years, in prison. Following the prison WGHP large tree, N.C.was Highway Patrol Sgt. room, procedure rooms, Greensboro facility not part of the condition. term, Byrd will serve 30 years of diagnostic Tyler Tucker said. Thenot person the imaging, labenforcement services, labor and delivery acquisition because it did meetintheir supervised release. Law NSJ front passenger seat, Maria Nunney, 50, services, general medicine and surgical food-safety standards. The company determined that Byrd, identified as School employee charged with of Cleveland, Ohio, died at the scene, care. The health care provider said that Orchard honors WNC farming said Neese’s now being the internet user, was storing child indecent liberties with student Tuckerproducts said. Theare driver and Maria on top of those services, the facility community with corn maze made at a modern, USDA-inspected sexual abusewill material in aflexibility cloud-based Nunney’s husband, Donald Nunney, 55, have the to expand to Randolph County facilitywas using new equipment but but later account, according to court documents airlifted to a local hospital meet future needs. Novant said its Henderson County A man has been charged with sex crimes WCU sees largest didn’t disclose the location. Based onTwo of and the sentencing hearing. On Oct. 30, died there, according to Tucker. new hospital will be a “critical access Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard is honoring in the Piedmont Triad, according to reports, thechildren, new nutrition label shows 2024, law enforcement searched freshman class in history their a 9-year-old boy and a point” and fills a moreByrd’s than 40-mile the farming community in western documents. According to warrants, the ingredient listgirl, is unchanged. Jesseseat 14-year-old were in the back residence and seized his cellphone. gap between its hospitals in Rowan and North Carolina as they kick off their William Edward Villano, 30, of Trinity, Jackson County2025 fall season, according to aAccording and were taken to a nearby hospital for Jones also confirmed it is using the counties. Novant Health toMecklenburg Ferguson’s office, under news is accused of engaging in sexual activity Western Carolina University treatment andall were in serious condition. has 19 hospitals across the Carolinas original recipes for Neese’s products. thesays U.S. Department of Justice, Byrd release. Stepp’s Hillcrest Orchard with an underage student at Uhwarrie welcomed its largest freshman class in The cause of the wreck is returning still under and nearly 900the clinics and facilities. Officials said products will be the 5-acre corn maze design for admitted the to downloading material, Ridge, where he was working, last investigation. a convocation onfall campus lastthe week as celebrates resilience, strength NSJ this month to 500 Food Lion locations and a forensic examination of his phone October. He was taken into custody last students prepared start classeslegacy this of localfound andtolongstanding farmsmore than 1,300 files depicting across North Carolina and Virginia, but WGHP week and charged with two counts of week. Since WCU’s opening 137 yearsthe essential while also spotlighting the sexual abuse of children, including felony sex act with a student and two the company did not provide a specific role agriculture plays across the278 region. ago, this is the largest freshman class for individual products. videos, some of which were counts of felony indecent liberties withtimeline a to thesay release, Precision at nearly 2,400.According School leaders student. He was given a $45,000 bond. downloaded through the file-sharing WFMY brought the vision corn that while manyMazes schools are seeing a for theapplication BitTorrent. WXII maze tothey life. have seen a decline in enrollment,

rise. Officials said the record-breaking class is because of programs offered and their affordability through N.C. Promise.

NSJ

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recent data shows the average median salary of state employees is $57,000. Each band has sub tiers for the premiums by enrollee levels: subscriber RALEIGH — State Rep. Jennifer only, subscriber plus children, subscriber Balkcom (R-Henderson) last week plus spouse and subscriber plus family. By A.P. Dillon accepted the nomination by Republicans The new rates have monthly premium North State Journal increases of between $25 and $50 for in the state’s 11th Congressional District to lower banded salaries. Higher salary RALEIGH — The State Edwards Health Plan replace U.S. Rep. Chuck (R-N.C.) band employees will see the largest Board Trustees approved on theofNovember ballot. a plan for premium increases, which could be premiums based on salary the Edwards dropped out bands of his for reelection almost triple their current premiums. plan’s members, of bid in750,000 the early hours ofconsisting Aug. 5, just A standard PPO Plan premium for just state employees, teachers and retirees, at two days after the House Ethics a subscriber making under $50,000 will its Aug. 15 meeting. Committee recommended his censure be $35 and is the least expensive option. State Health Plan (SHP) premiums over inappropriate interactions with two The most expensive option for the same have not been raised over the past seven COURTESY NCGA femaleand staffers. plan is $620 for a subscriber plus family years, premiums have been kept “I’m blessed the of Republican Rep. Jennifer Balkcom whereState the subscriber makes $90,001 or constant mainly to duereceive to the use cash nomination for the 11th Congressional more. reserves to make up the difference. District,” Balkcom said a statement. For those enrolled in the Pro PPO The $100 million for theinSHP in Sen. Ted Budd “Western North Carolina is where rates are(R-N.C.), similarly who had urged the legislature’s minibudget will help I was Plan, premium Edwards dropsubscriber out, endorsed Balkcom born, raised, chose toare raise my own banded. For theto single making somewhat, butand the reserves almost underin$50,000, the rate is $66. media. The gone, and the SHP is facing a shortfall of a statement on social family.” subscriber plus family for individuals $507 million said unless like the to new “Jennifer Balkcom fights every day for Balkcom it changes was an “honor than is $840.it’s disaster premium plan are made. themore people of $90,000 WNC, whether fight for Henderson County in Raleigh” making Those who opt for child coverage “Today’s vote was not easy, but these recovery, supporting farmers, or standing and that she would take that fight to may see rate decrease or Budd remainwrote. “I’m increases were D.C. necessary to keep the up their for women & girls,” Washington, at the same rate. Similarly, retiree Plan solvent and to keep this benefit in endorsing Jennifer because she’ll bring “Like many Americans, the Democrat should remain stable except for place for those that serve and have served coverage the values & strength of WNC to D.C., Party left me behind when they prescription costs, which could rise. the state of North Carolina,” North work to grow our economy, & always abandoned their values and embraced The SHP has also instituted a Carolina Treasurer Brad Briner said in stand up for NC-11.” extremism,” Balkcom said. “We’re seeing partnership program called Lantern for a press release. “The goal now is to move Ahead of being the seat, that extremism out across the members who use certainselected surgeonsfor with forward and focusplay on ways to improve House Speaker Destin Hall (R-Granite country, as their party nominates radical benefits through transparency and better whom the SHP has negotiated a below Falls) Balkcom, her “the socialists who want to raise taxes,our open normal rate.praised Plan director Tomcalling Friedman partnerships and programs to keep rightstate person at the right time,” adding, our borders, and do away with our way ofindicated employees following that members healthy.” “shecould will win in November.” life. We must prevent that pay nothing or very little The new premium rates goradical into agendaprogram procedures. effect 1, 2026, fall under and that for surgical Adam Smith, Edwards’ primary from Jan. reaching ourand government, information go out to SHP four salary under challenger, waswill among those who didn’t starts rightbands: here in the $50,000, Eleventh District.” More on benefits and premium rates $50,001-$65,000, pursue the vacancy created by Edwards. Balkcom, who $65,000-$90,000 was born in Hendersonmembers before the 2026 period and $90,001 The N.C. State State Rep.open Tim enrollment Moffitt (R-Henderson), County and and has over. remained there her 13-31. Department of Human most117 on Oct. state Sen. Kevin Corbin (R-Macon), entire life, has served Resources’ as the District

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Asheville seeks volunteers

Monthly premium increases By A.P. Dillon will depend on plan North State Journal tier and income level

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Man airliftedfor after 50-foot fall data cyclist, pedestrian from Grandfather Mountain Buncombe County

premium increases

The Henderson County Republican will face Democrat Jamie Ager in November

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Participating UNC System universities

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Balkcom replaces Edwards State Health Plan in trustees 11th District race OK

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MCAS Cherry Point welcomes

Vance’s mother new commanding officer speaks at Selma gala Craven County

Col. Timothy Johnston CountyDrieslein became MCAS Point’s new commanding officer TheCherry mother of Vice President JD Vance a changespeaker of command ceremony wasafter the keynote at a gala in held last week. Col. Brendan “Cletus” Johnston County over the weekend Burks was in the position for three to support a sober living nonprofit, years. During Burks’ time, Cherry Point event organizers said. Beverly Vance won the “Air Station of the Year” award Aikins atathe Galafifth two spoke years in row.New It is Roots Drieslein’s on Saturday nightPoint. in Selma, which is a tour at Cherry Marines, elected partnership with Johnston,members Harnett, officials and community all Hoke and Vance counties filled the base theater toto saysober goodbye to onenonprofit commanding officerAlive and welcome living Recovery Homes.a new one.to organizers, Aikins’ According reminded the audience that recoveryWNCN is possible at any age, as she discovered in her own life. WNCN

Residents urged to take ferries to mainland ahead of storm Hyde County

The North Carolina Ferry System CarolinaEast Medical Center actively assisted in evacuating Ocracoke earns top regional honors Island as Hurricane Erin approached.

Ferries to Hatteras, Cedar Island Craven County and Swan Quarter operated on full CarolinaEast was schedules toMedical facilitateCenter the evacuation named a Best Regional in the process. Hyde CountyHospital officials issued Coastal Plain by U.S. News & World a mandatory evacuation order for all Report for to itsthe 2026-2027 rankings. visitors island, which began The facility alsoatearned High Performing Sunday 8 p.m. A similar order for all status across several procedures, island residents began Monday at 6 a.m. including heart attack treatment in anticipation of impassable conditions N.C.replacement 12. andon knee surgery. These accolades represent the highest possible WNCT distinction within the U.S. News Best Hospitals Procedures & Conditions rating system. CarolinaEast Medical Center also has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain–MI Registry Platinum Performance Achievement Award for 2026. NSJ

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Suspects arrested in

Facebook robbery scheme Onslow Memorial welcomes new ICU chief Cumberland County

A young man and a youth were arrested

Onslow Countyat gunpoint Saturday after a robbery Onslow has during aMemorial ruse to buyHospital a cellphone welcomed Dr.near Kevin Price as its via Facebook Fayetteville. Thenew Intensive Care Unit medical director, unusual theft happened just south of according towhere the hospital. Hospital Fayetteville, the victim planned to sell a cellphone met via officials said Pricetoisaabuyer board-certified Facebook, according toinasurgical Cumberland surgeon specializing critical County Sheriff’s Office news Memorial, release. care. According to Onslow The two suspects — who said theycritical Price brings experience leading would buy the cellphone — then met at care teams across multiple health the victim’s brandished a firearm systems andhome, has focused his career andpersonalized, stole the phone, deputies said. on high-quality care The duo then fled the area in a silver and collaboration among healthcare sedan, later found in the 1800 block professionals. As ICU medical director, of Catawba Street in Fayetteville by hospital officials said Price will As the Fayetteville Police Department. provide clinical leadership Fayetteville police arrived at for theOnslow scene, Memorial’s critical care services with the thieves tried to run into a nearby ahome focusbut onwere quality improvement, caught, deputies said. operational excellence The Cumberland Countyand Sheriff’s Office then raided the house discovered patient-centered care.and Price is a Duke two guns, which werewith seized. University graduate roots in North Carolina, according to the hospital.WITN Before pursuing medicine, Price served in the United States Air Force as a pilot and instructor. Hospital officials said his military background helped shape the leadership, adaptability and commitment to excellence that guide his work in healthcare. NSJ

representative for two terms after first winning the seat in 2022. She currently chairs the Committee on Insurance and the Appropriations, Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, and she is vice chair of the House Select Committee on Helene Recovery and the Appropriations Committee. In addition to serving in the legislature, Balkcom has served as vice president of the Hendersonville Women’s Club and the Hendersonville Lions Club, as well as treasurer of the Mortgage Bankers Association of Western North Carolina. She has also held board positions on the Henderson County Education Foundation, the Advent Health Foundation Board and Henderson County’s Planning Board. “She understands the people and communities of this district, and she is ready to stand up for our families, protect our values, and fight for the issues that matter most to Western North Carolina,” Merry Guy, Republican chair of the 11th Congressional District, said in a press release. “Republicans across the 11th District are ready to unite behind her and get to work winning in November.” North Carolina Republican Party Chairman Jason Simmons echoed Guy’s sentiments, stating Balkcom “has what it takes to be a strong voice for Western North Carolina in Washington.” “She is committed to fighting for our families, defending our conservative values, and making sure Western North Carolina has a strong advocate in Congress,” Simmons said of Balkcom. “The NCGOP is proud to stand behind her, and we are ready to work together to deliver a Republican victory in November.”

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Matthew Burrill, Ken McKim, Kristie Sluder and Chad Nesbitt all dropped out of consideration. Balkcom will have a sprint ahead of her against 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. Edwards had not broken a million dollars for the same period. Balkcom will have to start fresh in fundraising for her congressional bid with just over 80 days to go until the November election. “Any money Jennifer Balkcom has raised for her state House campaign is essentially useless to her as a congressional candidate,” Western Carolina University professor of political science Chris Cooper told North State Journal. “Federal law precludes transfers from state to federal campaign accounts.” The 11th District seat has shifted in partisan rankings in recent months. The University of Virginia’s Center for Politics shifted the race from “leans Republican” to “likely Republican” this past May after the ethics investigation into Edwards was announced. Sabato’s Crystal Ball rankings moved the race to “toss-up” at the end of July. The Cook Political Report’s ranking has not been updated since June 18 and has the seat rated as +5 Republican. The race for Balkcom’s current General Assembly seat will also need to be addressed by Republicans in District 117. Balkcom was facing Democrat Lynne Russo after winning in the March primary against Christopher Lamar Wilson with more than 76% of the vote.

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

features 8-year release marks milestone for Southern Grace Distilleries Conviction comes of age behind bars in Mount Pleasant By Dan Reeves North State Journal MOUNT PLEASANT — For years, the simplest way to define Southern Grace Distilleries was the most obvious: It was the place making bourbon in an old prison. That was certainly true roughly a year ago, when I first met Thomas Thacker, toured the facility and tasted the product. The former Cabarrus Correctional Center, known as Mount Pleasant Prison, gave the distillery a name people remembered — Whiskey Prison — and a story few competitors could match. Visitors came to see the old cellblocks, learn how whiskey was made behind bars and, in some cases, chase the property’s reputation for ghosts. Then something changed. People started coming more for the bourbon and the work behind each bottle — and less for the gimmick. Thacker, Southern Grace co-founder and CEO, said visitors now travel from Georgia, Maryland, Illinois and Indiana for release days, joining enthusiasts who plan trips around distilleries much the way others travel for barbecue or baseball. “We don’t want to be good for craft,” Thacker said. “We want to be good, period.” Thacker wants Conviction measured against bottles from heritage distilleries that have defined American bourbon for generations, and Conviction has increasingly held its own. Founder’s Reserve and Conviction Single Barrel each earned Double Gold at the 2026 San Francisco International Spirits Competition, with Founder’s Reserve advancing as a Best of Class finalist. Double Oak 1929 earned Double Gold at the 2025 SIP Awards and gold at the 2025 New York International Spirits Competition, while Single Barrel received Platinum at SIP. “The competition I always want to win is a patron in a bar

PHOTOS BY STAN GILLILAND FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Southern Grace Distilleries in Mount Pleasant is housed in the former Cabarrus Correctional Center.

“We don’t want to be good for craft. We want to be good, period.” Thomas Thacker, Southern Grace Distilleries drinking ours and liking it,” Thacker said. “That’s the win. That’s the gold medal.” This summer, Southern Grace reached another milestone with the release of Conviction 8 Straight Bourbon Whiskey, its first eight-year bourbon. For an independent distillery, eight years means more than the number printed on a bottle. Those barrels had to be filled, stored and left alone while the company continued operating around whiskey that could not be rushed. “You don’t day trade bourbon,” Thacker said. “You put it up and you wait on it.” For Dr. Allen “Doc” Dobson, chairman and majority owner

Chairman and majority owner Allen “Doc” Dobson, left, and Southern Grace Distilleries co-founder and CEO Thomas Thacker pose before shelves of bottled Conviction bourbon. of Southern Grace, that meant investing years before knowing what Southern Grace — or Whiskey Prison — would become. “It takes patience and discipline to build a spirits brand,”

Dobson said. “We made the investment in these barrels years ago without knowing exactly where the business would be today.” Southern Grace now has more than 800 barrels and

‘The End of Oak Street’ provides good time, leans on tropes

a loser husband, and Greg isn’t happy about it. Audrey is about to lose all her friends to college while she stays in the same town. Brian is having trouble with a bully and struggling to talk to his crush, Jeannette (Jordan Alexa Davis). But the big problem is that the parents are on the edge of divorce, and the kids hate being caught in the middle. Unrelated to the various personal dramas, strange things start happening in the vicinity. Bright lights flash. Pets go missing. Giant piles of dung appear in neighbors’ backyards. Could it be some sort of elaborate prank? Or is the neighborhood, thanks to a series of unexplained wormholes, gradually switching places with a patch of land from 200 million years ago? There wouldn’t be a movie here if it was the former, so of course it’s the latter. Yes, the area is soon infested with dinosaurs, and the new residents are less pleased to “meet” their new neighbors than they are to “eat” them. And there’s no driving away, as all roads have been broken by ... let’s say plate tectonics. The family, along with a sadly orphaned Jeannette, is going to have to work together to survive. Can they get through this crisis when they were already having trouble getting through their daily lives? I wasn’t digging the “nearly broken family” dynamic. Action and disaster movies have been milking this trope for decades, and this one doesn’t really bring

The new dinosaur movie stars Anne Hathaway and Ewan McGregor By Bob Garver The Sun

WARNER BROS. PICTURES VIA AP

Christian Convery, from left, Anne Hathaway and Maisy Stella appear in a scene from “The End of Oak Street.”

“THE END of Oak Street” is a creature feature about a seemingly idyllic suburban family that is secretly going through some hard times. Those times become harder and less secret when their neighborhood is attacked by dinosaurs. It’s like a “Jurassic Park” movie except it doesn’t have to come up with a way for its characters to go to an island filled with dinosaurs — the dinosaurs conveniently come to them. Greg (Ewan McGregor) and Denise (Anne Hathaway) Platt raise their teenage children, Audrey (Maisy Stella) and Brian (Christian Convery), on Oak Street in the sickeningly sweet suburb of Flowervale, Michigan, in 1982. Beneath all the sunshine and roses, the family is hanging on by a thread. Greg has lost his full-time job and is delivering pizzas to make what little cash he can. Aspiring author Denise is working on a novel about an unfulfilled housewife with

casks aging behind bars. A new barrel house can hold about 1,100 barrels and will nearly double the distillery’s aging capacity. Growth, however, does not mean chasing every market. “We’ve only got the bourbon we’ve got,” Thacker said. “We’re not going to sell it cheap or sell it short to get it one more place.” The same philosophy extends to the people behind the whiskey. Thacker said employees arrived without careers in the spirits industry and learned the work in Mount Pleasant — distilling, bottling, blending, leading tours and serving customers. “We all started at zero, and these people have gotten up to speed and now give a worldclass tourism experience and a world-class whiskey,” Thacker said. For Thacker, who grew up in a small textile community, that work carries particular meaning. “The biggest loss we can have right now would be one of these kids that knows how to do what they do to leave here,” he said. That emphasis on people connects Whiskey Prison to Dobson’s larger vision for Mount Pleasant. Southern Grace transformed the former prison into Whiskey Prison in 2016 and now welcomes more than 5,000 visitors annually, according to the company. Many also eat, shop and visit other Mount Pleasant businesses. Dobson, who also owns 73 & Main in downtown Mount Pleasant, said that movement is part of the point. “This is Mount Pleasant,” he said. “This is reinvesting in the community.” Dobson said between 8% and 10% of 73 & Main patrons travel more than 50 miles to eat there. Thacker said the businesses increasingly operate less as rivals than pieces of the same hospitality economy. “Somebody comes in here and gets a good drink and then goes down the street and gets dinner and a good drink — that thrills us to death,” he said. Now some of Southern Grace’s early barrels have become the oldest bourbon it has released. Conviction is collecting national awards, and visitors are traveling hundreds of miles to a small Cabarrus County town to find it. For all that has changed, Thacker still reduces the job to the person standing on the other side of the bar.

anything new to the table. If anything, it’s a particularly tame version of what can go on behind closed doors. But I was digging the dinosaurs. We get nice, long, well-lit shots of the creatures, with very little cheating by way of darkness, rain or other obstructions. Action sequences are harrowing, a few laughs are eye-popping, and there’s more violence here than in a typical PG-13 movie in this era (though it probably would have gotten a mere PG in 1982, the year that brought us “Raiders of the Lost Ark”). It took me a long time — too long, in fact — to get invested in “The End of Oak Street.” The Platt family drama was just too uninteresting for too much of the movie, and it loses my recommendation because of it. But that doesn’t mean that the dinosaur action isn’t some of the best action, dinosaur-related or otherwise, that I’ve seen in a long time. I can completely understand someone else thinking that it saves the movie for them; it just doesn’t for me. This movie came very close to winning me over, but by the time the credits rolled, I was happy to have reached the end of “Oak Street.” Grade: C “The End of Oak Street” is rated PG-13 for some strong violent content, bloody images, some strong language and suggestive material. Its running time is 99 minutes.

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

grain to glass A look inside Whiskey Prison in Mount Pleasant, where Southern Grace Distilleries produces its award-winning Conviction Bourbon inside a former North Carolina correctional facility. The historic cellblocks now hold aging barrels, production spaces and tasting areas, blending the prison’s past with the craft, people and character behind the growing bourbon brand.

PHOTOS BY STAN GILLILAND FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001283-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Julia May Thigpen, 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 20th 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 20th day of August 2026. Joseph W. Thigpen, Administrator of the Julia May Thigpen Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE

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.

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

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

NORTH 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 Publish: 08/20, 08/27, 09/03, 09/10

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001033-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Lona Smith, deceased late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 20th 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 20th day of August 2026. Eric M. Ditmore, Administrator of the Lona Smith Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 08/20, 08/27, 09/03, 09/10

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001120-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Louise Scott McNeill, deceased late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 30th day of October 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This is the 30th day of July 2026. Eric M. Ditmore, Administrator of the Louise Scott McNeill Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 07/30, 08/06, 08/13, 08/20

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 26E001296-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Jenny Doris Augustowski, 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 20, 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 20th day of August, 2026. Thomas Charles Augustowski, Jr., Executor of the Estate of Jenny Doris Augustowski 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 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

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 – 26E-000353-250 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of John Blount, deceased, Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 30th day of October, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 30th day of July, 2026. Laura Davis, Administrator DSR Legal, PLLC PO Box 51596 Durham, NC 27717

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 In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File #26E001083-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Winford Bullard Jr., Winford Bullard Jr. deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 20th 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 persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 17th day of August, 2026. Felicia Ann Maxwell 202 Fox Run Road St George SC 29477 Administrator of the Estate of Winford Bullard Jr. 08/20/2026, 08/27/2026, 09/03/2026, 09/10/2026

Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Danny Ray Camden, 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 20th 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 11th Day of August, 2026. Sarah Hymbaugh 709 Bent Creek Drive Hope Mills, NC 28348 Of the Estate of Danny Ray Camden, Deceased

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Robin Runa Counts File No. 26E001293250 Cumberland County, North Carolina The undersigned, having qualified on August 11, 2026, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Robin Runa Counts, deceased, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said decedent to present them to the undersigned at: Michael Levone Counts 6854 Saint Julian Way Fayetteville, North Carolina 28314 Phone: 9102243092 on or before November 20, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment. This the 20th day of August, 2026. Michael Levone Counts Personal Representative of the Estate

NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Cumberland County, North Carolina RE: THE ESTATE OF JANIE CRUZ – 26E000712-250 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Janie Cruz, deceased, Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 6th day of November, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This is the 6th day of August, 2026. Dennis Wilson, Administrator DSR Legal, PLLC PO Box 51596 Durham, NC 27717

NOTICE NORTH 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 NORTH 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 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E001187-250 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Mary Ann Jensen, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Mary Ann Jensen to present them to the undersigned on or before the 30 day of October, 2026 (this date being 3 months from the first publication date of this notice) or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 27 day of July, 2026. Renee M. Burke 4020 Butler Nursery Rd. Fayetteville NC 28306 Administrator of the Estate of Mary Ann Jensen aka Mary Ann Acker Jensen aka Mary Acker Jensen

NOTICE In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File # 20E001273-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Margie J. Keefe, deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 30th day of October, 2026, (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 23rd day of July, 2026. Beverly P. Harris, 171 Pisgah Hwy, Candler, NC 28715 Administrator of the Estate of Margie J. Keefe.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF IRIS CELESTE MIDDLETON Having qualified as Personal Representative of the Estate of Iris Celeste Middleton, deceased, the undersigned hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the decedent to present their claims to the undersigned on or before November 20, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Claims should be presented to: Celeste Middleton & Denice Middleton Personal Representative, Estate of Iris Celeste Middleton 312 Dudley Dr Fayetteville, NC 28314 This notice will be published once a week for four consecutive weeks, beginning August 20, 2026. Celeste Middleton & Denice Middleton Personal Representative of the Estate of Iris Celeste Middleton

NOTICE NORTH 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 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 NORTH State of North Carolina In the General Court of Justice County of Cumberland Superior Court Division Estate File #26E001159-250 Notice To Creditors Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Arthur Richard Seaman, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, on July 20, 2026, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate to present them to: Arthur Robert Seaman, Administrator 3422 Broomsgrove Drive Fayetteville NC 28306 On or before October 30, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment. North Carolina law requires the claims deadline to be at least three months after the first publication date. This the 22nd of July, 2026. Arthur Robert Seaman Administrator of the Estate of Arthur Richard Seaman

NOTICE NORTH 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 NORTH NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001284-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Thomas Mark Thigpen, 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 20th 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 20th day of August 2026. Joseph W. Thigpen, Administrator of the Thomas Mark Thigpen Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 08/20, 08/27, 09/03, 09/10

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001285-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of William Lynn Thigpen, 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 20th 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 20th day of August 2026. Joseph W. Thigpen, Administrator of the William Lynn Thigpen Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 08/20, 08/27, 09/03, 09/10

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.

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIAM MOYER WILSON, JR., Deceased Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of William Moyer Wilson, Jr., deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned hereby gives notice to all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the Estate of William Moyer Wilson, Jr., to present their claims to the undersigned Executor at the address listed below on or before November 20, 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 20th day of August, 2026. Moyer Leonard Wilson Executor of the Estate of William Moyer Wilson, Jr., Deceased Mailing Address for Claims: Moyer Leonard Wilson, Executor Estate of William Moyer Wilson, Jr. 310 Mayodan Drive, Apt. 106 Fayetteville, NC 28314

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 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

CABARRUS 25SP000384-120 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CABARRUS COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Sarah Christine Saunderson and Michael Todd Smith to Costner Law Group, Trustee(s), which was dated April 14, 2022 and recorded on April 14, 2022 in Book 15971 at Page 214, Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located,

26SP000245-120 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CABARRUS COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Jeffrey D. McKinney to WFG National Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), which was dated April 25, 2024 and recorded on May 6, 2024 in Book 16919 at Page 244, Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on September 1, 2026 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, to wit:

CUMBERLAND NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Dates: August

August 20,

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA New Hanover County IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26E001018-640 Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Lucy P. Targia, deceased, late of New Hanover County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Lucy P. Targia to present them to the undersigned on or before the 20 day of November, 2026 (this date being 3 months from the first publication of this notice) or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 14 day of August, 2026. Kathleen Hamilton 1721 North County Dr. Castle Hayne, NC 28429 Executor of the Estate of Lucy P. Targia First Publication Date: August 20, 2026 4 week run dates August 20, 27, September 3, 10, 2026

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 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

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 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER The undersigned, Personal Representative of the Estate of Georgia Noble Williams, deceased, hereby gives notice to all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the decedent to present them to the undersigned on or before November 20th, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Claims should be sent to: Giles Charles Simpson 333 Brighton Road Wilmington NC 2049 Signed this the 20th day of August, 2026. Giles Charles Simpson

RANDOLPH

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NEW HANOVER

Publication 2026 and

Notice to Creditors STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER 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. Name and Address of Administrator William Slate Thompson Administrator 721Dungannon Blvd Wilmington, NC 28403 The North State Journal August 13, 20, 27, September 3, 2026

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

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: 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

or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on September 1, 2026 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, to wit: Being all of Lot 8 of Wildwood Ridge, Phase 1, Map 2, according to the plat thereof recorded in Map Book 54 at Pages 107109 in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Cabarrus County, North Carolina. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 1309 Red Birch Pl, Kannapolis, NC 28081. 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

ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN THE CITY OF CONCORD, CABARRUS COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA AND MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: LYING AND BEING IN THE CITY OF CONCORD, NUMBER TWO (2) TOWNSHIP OF CABARRUS COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA ON THE EAST SIDE OF WENDOVER ROAD AND BEING ALL OF LOT NUMBER THIRTY ONE (31) IN THE SUBDIVISION OF SPRINGDALE, SECTION ONE (1), AS SURVEYED AND PLATTED, A COPY OF WHICH PLAT IS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF CABARRUS COUNTY IN MAP BOOK 12, PAGE 24, TO WHICH MAP BOOK AND PAGE REFERENCE IS HEREBY MADE FOR A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION THEREOF BY METES AND BOUNDS. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 2809 Wendover Rd NW, Concord, NC 28027. 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

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 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. 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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Faye Carol Hunt McElreath 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 19th 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 20th day of August 2026. Louie Dean McElreath Faye Carol Hunt McElreath Estate Andrew J Weiner, Attorney Gavin & Cox 113 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 Telephone: 336-629-2600

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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

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

DEED.

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.

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 Sarah Christine Saunderson and Michael Todd Smith. 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

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 Jeffrey D. McKinney.

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

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

WAKE Notice to Creditors Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of LINDA MAE FARRELL, late of Wake County, North Carolina (25E001379910), 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)

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.: 25-20555-FC01

of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

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

Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988

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

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

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

If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing.

File No.: 26-03960-FC01

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. BY: /S/ AnnMarie Taylor____ AnnMarie Taylor Attorney Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. Hutchens Law Firm

for

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

PEN & PAPER PURSUITS

sudoku

SOLUTIONS FROM LAST WEEK

All-Star race coming back to NC, B3

ABBIE PARR / AP PHOTO

Panthers quarterback Bryce Young (9) high-fives teammates, including rookie Lee Hunter (92) as they leave the field during the preseason game against the Buffalo Bills.

the Thursday

Less playing time for rookies in Panthers’ second preseason tilt

NFL

The starters played in Buffalo, reducing opportunities for players on the bubble

SIDELINE REPORT

Daniels sends LSU cease-and-desist letter regarding decision to give No. 5 jersey to current player Baton Rouge, La. Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels told LSU it can no longer use the 2023 Heisman Trophy winner’s name, image and likeness. A letter sent to A.D. Verge Ausberry blamed the school’s decision to allow cornerback D.J. Pickett to wear a No. 5 jersey. That’s the number Daniels wore during his two seasons at LSU. It’s the first time an LSU player has worn No. 5 since Daniels’ departure.

NCAA BASKETBALL

Field of 68 organizes opening day marathon that features High Point, other mid-majors The 2026-27 college basketball season will open with a marathon event featuring 16 mid-major programs. The Field of 68 revives a tipoff event that ran for nine seasons through 2017. Eight games are scheduled for Nov. 2, beginning with High Point and Liberty at 12:01 a.m. Eastern. The games will stream on YouTube and X. Six will be played in Rock Hill, South Carolina, with two in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

NCAA FOOTBALL

Rule changes include removing next-game DQs for first targeting penalty Targeting penalties in the second half of a college football game will no longer require the offending player to sit out the first half of his team’s next game. Offensive pass interference will become a 10-yard penalty instead of 15. Those are among the rule changes for the 2026 season. Teams also will be allowed to try a fair catch kick worth three points after a completed or awarded fair catch.

By Shawn Krest North State Journal THE CAROLINA Panthers’ starters got some game action in the team’s second preseason contest Saturday. That meant there were reduced opportunities for the team’s rookies and players locked in battles for roster spots as the team headed to Buffalo to break in the Bills’ brand new stadium. Here’s a look at who made the most of their limited snaps in the loss to Buffalo and who may have taken a step back. The draft picks First-round right tackle Monroe Freeling is one of the starters and saw his first NFL action protecting QB1 Bryce Young.

ADRIAN KRAUS / AP PHOTO

Bills quarterback Shane Buechele (6) throws a pass over Panthers rookie safety Zakee Wheatley (38) during Saturday’s preseason game in Buffalo. He received his “welcome to the league” moment from sixth-year pass rusher Greg Rousseau. After solid blocking on a run play and pass play for the first two snaps of the game, Freeling saw Rousseau line up in front of him on third down. He then

got pushed backward, collapsing the pocket on Young, who had to throw off his back foot for a drive-ending incompletion. On his next snap, to start the second drive, Freeling lost Rousseau completely, forcing Young to dump off to a running back.

Freeling didn’t have any other major setbacks on his 10 snaps in the contest. Second-round defensive tackle Lee Hunter didn’t start, but he saw the field on the game’s second snap. He promptly got pancaked to the ground on that drive, although he recovered, helping to collapse the pocket from the blind side to help set up a sack. He also got a good push against the double teams he saw on a good chunk of his 17 snaps. In the second quarter, he drew a holding penalty on a Bills’ lineman who wrestled him to the ground. Fourth-round CB Will Lee III and fifth-round safety Zakee Wheatley were both in on the game’s opening kickoff and then joined the defense together at the tail end of the second drive. Both had an inauspicious start. Lee got blocked on the edge, keeping him from stopping a Buffalo sweep play from getting outside, while Wheatley was also See PANTHERS, page B3

Our college football preseason predictions It could be a long season for football in N.C. By Shawn Krest North State Journal THE TRIANGLE was full of football surprises last year. UNC was supposed to be reinvigorated under Hall of Fame head coach Bill Belichick but instead struggled through a rough season. Duke won the ACC title after tying for first place. NC State, by most accounts, underperformed. Of course, if you read the North State Journal’s preseason predictions, you knew all that was coming. Every year, we use a fairly simple model to predict the records of ACC football teams, as well as the other FBS squads in the state. Essentially, we go through the schedules and compare the number See WATCHLISTS, page B4

JACOB KUPFERMAN / AP PHOTO

Duke players celebrate the 2025 ACC championship, an outcome that was forecast by our preseason prediction model.

B2 THURSDAY

8.20.26

TRENDING

Ty Gibbs: The Cup Series driver’s car will be adorned in the multicolored M&M’s paint scheme made famous by former teammate Kyle Busch during next month’s race at Bristol. Busch’s widow, Samantha, said Bristol was one of Busch’s favorite tracks and she’s grateful that M&M’s will be coming back there. Busch died in May after severe pneumonia progressed into sepsis. Pep Biel: The Charlotte FC standout had a goal contribution in his sixth straight game helping lead a 3-1 victory over the Columbus Crew. Brandt Bronico scored 29 seconds into the match for his first goal this season. Liel Abada scored his second goal of the campaign on a penalty kick in the 9th minute. Biel scored in the 73rd minute for Charlotte (8-7-4). Jai Lucas: Miami extended the contract of head men’s basketball coach and former Duke assistant under Jon Scheyer. The extension came with a raise. Lucas had four years left on his original five-year deal. Lucas engineered an impressive turnaround in his first season with the Hurricanes, leading them to a 26-9 overall record and going 13-5 in the ACC without any returning players.

North State Journal for Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026

Beyond the box score POTENT QUOTABLES

NASCAR

Joey Logano won at Richmond Raceway with a late-race charge. The three-time Cup Series champion scored his second victory in the past four races, climbing from 17th to ninth in the points standings. With 24 laps remaining, he snatched the lead from Christopher Bell, who was trying to stretch his tires to the finish. Logano earned his 39th career victory by 0.392 seconds over Chase Briscoe.

BOB LEVERONE / AP PHOTO

“I can’t swear, which means I can’t tell you anything that Kevin Garnett said.” New Naismith Hall of Famer Doc Rivers, left, on coaching the Hall of Fame player, right.

ROBERT SIMMONS / AP PHOTO

NBA

NFL

MARK J. TERRILL / AP PHOTO

CHARLES REX ARBOGAST / AP PHOTO

“Pretty, pretty good.” New Naismith Hall of Famer Elena Della Donne, at the start of her induction speech. PRIME NUMBER

9 Number of NFL franchises with stadium builds or renovations, costing close to $20 billion. At least one facility will debut every year from now until at least 2031. Six of the nine projects include a dome or shade structure, and all nine add luxury suites and club lounges.

The Golden State Warriors have every indication Stephen Curry, right, wants to stay with the team for the remainder of his career and plan to make that happen. The 38-year-old Curry has said he’d like to play a couple more years. Curry becomes eligible for a two-year extension Aug. 29.

BRYNN ANDERSON / AP PHOTO

The NFL suspended Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. for eight games following his February arrest after a domestic dispute with his ex-girlfriend. The Charlotte native and Chambers High alum can participate in preseason games and practices until Aug. 30. He will be eligible for reinstatement on Nov. 2.

SOCCER

PAUL WHITE / AP PHOTO

Cristiano Ronaldo and Georgina Rodriguez got married last Tuesday in a civil ceremony described by his PR team as “a private and intimate moment attended by their five children.” The ceremony took place in Cascais, a coastal town in western Portugal near the capital Lisbon. The couple posted a picture on their Instagram accounts showing their rings. They have been together since meeting in Madrid in 2016.

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Hornets acquire Schroder as offseason overhaul continues Charlotte added the veteran guard to strengthen its backcourt depth By Jesse Deal North State Journal CHARLOTTE — The busy offseason for Jeff Peterson, the Charlotte Hornets’ president of basketball operations, is continuing with another move designed to improve the roster. According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Charlotte has reportedly agreed to acquire veteran point guard Dennis Schroder and cash considerations from the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for guard Tre Mann. The move is not the type of blockbuster that sent LaMelo Ball to Minnesota or Miles Bridges to Phoenix earlier this summer, but it addresses one of Charlotte’s clearest remaining needs. With Coby White moving into the starting point guard role following the Ball trade, the Hornets lacked an established backup capable of consistently organizing the offense. Rookie Christian Anderson handled some creation duties during Summer League, while Sion James has also taken on ball-handling responsibilities, but Schroder gives Charlotte a more proven option behind White as it tries to end the NBA’s longest active playoff drought.

“With all the decisions that we make, we do it driven by a singular focus.” Jeff Peterson, Charlotte Hornets president of basketball operations Schroder, 32, averaged 10.8 points, 4.9 assists and 2.7 rebounds in 24.2 minutes per game last season, appearing in 70 games split between Sacramento and Cleveland. He averaged 12.8 points and 4.3 assists in 40 games with the Kings before finishing the season with the Cavaliers. For his career, the German guard has averaged 13.7 points and 4.9 assists per game. Atlanta selected him with the 17th overall pick in the 2013 NBA Draft. Charlotte will be Schroder’s 12th NBA team — the well-traveled guard has been traded nine times and trails former Hornets guard Ish Smith, who played for 13 franchises. Schroder also brings postseason and international experience to a young Charlotte backcourt. He has played in 91 NBA playoff games and captains the German national team, leading Germany to the 2023 FIBA World Cup championship and 2025 EuroBasket title while earning MVP honors in both tournaments.

JEFF CHIU / AP PHOTO

Former Cleveland Cavaliers guard Dennis Schroder shoots against the Golden State Warriors during a game in San Francisco on April 2. The move also reunites Schroder with familiar faces. Peterson worked in Atlanta’s front office when the Hawks drafted Schroder, while Hornets coach Charles Lee was an assistant in Atlanta during part of Schroder’s five-season run with the franchise. Schroder is set to make about $14.8 million this season. His contract runs through 2027-28, but only $4.35 million of that final season is guaranteed, giving Charlotte flexibility if the partnership does not become part of its longer-term plans.

“As it relates to the way we will continue to build the Charlotte Hornets, I do think it’s important to touch on just everything that we do,” Peterson said last month. “With all the decisions that we make, we do it driven by a singular focus. That is, ‘Are we putting ourselves in a position to have sustained success moving forward, to compete at the highest level, then ultimately to compete for championships?’” Schroder is not an elite shooter or defender, but he can get into the paint, create for team-

All-Star Race returning to North Wilkesboro The 0.625-mile oval will host its first triple-header in 2027 By Ryan Henkel North State Journal AFTER A ONE-YEAR hiatus, the NASCAR All-Star Race will be returning to North Wilkesboro Speedway. The historic track, which hosted the 2023-25 All-Star races after revitalization efforts brought the site back into action beginning in 2022, will host its fourth All-Star event in the past five years next May. “Four years ago, on the steps of the North Carolina Museum of History in Raleigh, we announced what many believed was impossible — that NASCAR was returning to North Wilkesboro Speedway,” said NASCAR Chief Operating Officer Ben Kennedy in a press release. “Today, seeing this iconic venue host a historic NASCAR tripleheader weekend is a testament to just how extraordinary that revival has been.” Earlier this year, Dover Motor Speedway served as the site of the All-Star Race, with NWS hosting a points race, but it seems NASCAR missed having Wilkes County’s 0.625-mile asphalt oval for its summer showcase. And not only will North Wilkesboro be hosting the All-Star race, but the track will also host

PANTHERS from page B1 out of position and couldn’t keep contain allowing a long gain. Lee had good tight coverage for much of his 30 snaps, keeping Buffalo passers from targeting his man very often. He had a nearly costly misjudgment the one time they threw his way. Lee tried to jump the route and step in front of the pass, but he didn’t get his hands on the ball, and the receiver managed to catch it. Lee got a hand on him to allow other defenders time to bring him down, but it could have been a huge gain. Lee was also out of position later in the game on a potential open-field tackle on a dumpoff. Wheatley recovered from his early miscue to play a clean game the rest of his 41 snaps. He picked

JASON JACKSON FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Cup Series drivers compete during the 2025 NASCAR All-Star Race at North Wilkesboro. a weekend tripleheader with the O’Reilly Auto Parts Series, the first time it’s returned to NWS since 1985, and Craftsman Truck Series across the three-day event (May 21-23, 2027). The prime-time event, Sunday’s All-Star Race, will also be the 35th anniversary of “One Hot Night,” which was NASCAR’s first nighttime All-Star Race. “‘One Hot Night’ at Charlotte Motor Speedway was the first superspeedway NASCAR race under the lights, and that’s when I truly became a race fan,” said Speedway Motorsports Presi-

dent and CEO Marcus Smith in a press release. “There was electricity in the air, and an entire generation of race fans was captivated by it. We’ve seen the same excitement amongst fans at North Wilkesboro every day and night we’ve been on track since re-opening. It’s a pilgrimage every NASCAR fan should take, and now we have the biggest race week ever to look forward to for 2027.” Kyle Larson, Joey Logano and Christopher Bell won each of the last three All-Star Races hosted at North Wilkesboro, with Logano also having won this season’s points-paying race,

up a number of tackles on run plays, crashing to the second level and stopping backs in the open field. He also blitzed twice in the third quarter, batting down a pass on one of them. Fifth-round center Sam Hecht entered the game three minutes before halftime and logged 30 snaps. He consistently fired out into the second level, blocking linebackers on run plays. On an and-goal play from the 2, he pushed his man into the end zone to clear a path. He also had a pancake block on a quarterback run in the third quarter, finishing with the best day of the ’26 Panther draft class. Seventh-round linebacker Jackson Kuwatch was on the punt team in the second quarter and entered at middle linebacker just before half. On his

first snap, he dropped back into coverage and made a good tackle on a pass over the middle. On the next snap, he made a sideline tackle on another pass, showing off his speed. He made a tackle in the backfield on a quick out pass to end the half. He finished with 18 snaps. Helped themselves Undrafted out of Duke, rookie defensive tackle Aaron Hall was around the quarterback all day, finishing with three tackles and half a sack on 24 snaps. Wide receiver Ja’seem Reed caught all three balls that came his way, including a touchdown right before half. He also drew a defensive pass interference flag on Buffalo on a long sideline pass. His 27 snaps were more than any

the first at the track since 1996. While there has been no confirmation for potential twists and changes to the All-Star Race format, the press release stated that NASCAR “plans to collaborate with teams, the track and drivers to add a unique element to the event, which could include adjustments to the race format itself or to the technical elements of the race car.” “I’ve always considered All-Star the race of innovation,” Smith said. “It’s such a unique opportunity for the race teams, NASCAR and the speedway to be bold, take some chances, have fun and just see what happens.” While the format might be up in the air, what is known is that the winner of the All-Star Race will take home a $1 million cash prize. The weekend will also be the perfect celebration for the 80th anniversary of North Wilkesboro Speedway, which can trace its lineage all the way back to the 1940s. Originally starting as a dirt track, the first official race at NWS was held May 18, 1947, and NASCAR concluded its inaugural stock season there Oct. 16, 1949. The track served an integral part of NASCAR’s history through the years but ended up in a period of abandonment starting in 1996 due to ownership issues. Revitalization efforts began in 2019 thanks in part to

of the other receivers fighting for a spot. Hurt themselves Wide receiver Jimmy Horn Jr. was targeted just twice in his 23 snaps, coming down with one ball. Wide receiver John Metchie III wasn’t targeted at all on his first 24 snaps. On the last offensive play of the game, he caught a touchdown pass. Wide receiver David Moore got just 12 snaps. He was targeted once — a deep ball that was overthrown — and was the only receiver in the position battle who didn’t get to return a kick. Cornerback Corey Thornton got just 18 snaps, 11 fewer than Chau Smith-Wade, who appears to have the edge in the po-

mates and run a second unit. With Charlotte adding shooting across the roster, his ability to penetrate and generate open looks could provide a useful complement off the bench. He can also serve as a veteran resource for Anderson and Charlotte’s other young guards while allowing the Hornets to develop their rookie without immediately handing him full responsibility for the backup point guard job. Mann, meanwhile, departs Charlotte after averaging 5.5 points, 1.7 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 53 games last season. The 25-year-old, selected 18th overall in the 2021 draft, appeared poised for a larger role early in the 2024-25 season before a back injury cut his campaign short. He returned last season but was unable to recapture that early form, averaging 12.6 minutes per game. Charlotte still has roster work ahead before opening night, with more players under contract than it can carry into the regular season. Peterson has made clear that those decisions will be viewed through a longer lens. “When you look at the totality of the season, it’s important to take an honest look in the mirror of where you are as a team, and that’s what I had to do at the end of the season,” Peterson said. “The goal is never to compete for a play-in spot. The goal isn’t to get to the play-in or even the playoffs for one year. I’ve said it plenty of times since I’ve been here in Charlotte: The goal is to get to the playoffs and stay there for a long time.” The Hornets’ four-game preseason schedule is set to begin Oct. 6 against Brooklyn in Charlotte.

“We’re incredibly proud of what this weekend represents — not only for this legendary track, but also for the community that helped bring it back and for the continued growth of our sport.” Ben Kennedy, NASCAR chief operating officer Dale Earnhardt Jr., who had the track digitally scanned for the iRacing video game, but it was an $18 million allocation from the state of North Carolina that got NWS the funding it needed to be fully revived. Now the track is ready to host its biggest weekend ever. “North Wilkesboro has once again become a place where NASCAR’s rich history, current momentum and exciting future come together,” Kennedy said. “We’re incredibly proud of what this weekend represents — not only for this legendary track, but also for the community that helped bring it back and for the continued growth of our sport.” Ticket packages are available for purchase online at North Wilkesboro Speedway’s website or by calling 336-844-4735. According to NWS, race week on-track and fan event schedules, broadcast networks, green flag start times and NASCAR All-Star Race eligibility and format details will be announced at a later date.

41

Snaps by rookie safety Zakee Wheatley, tied for most on the Carolina D

sition battle. Thornton did log eight special teams snaps as well, which might be his best path for making the team. He nearly knocked down a punt at the goal line on a touchback and was also on kickoff and kick return teams. When he was on defense, Buffalo quarterbacks targeted him, and he got flagged for pass interference setting the Bills up in the red zone.

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Johnson set to leave NASCAR with famous friends in tow, star on Hollywood’s Walk of Fame The racing legend is ready to retire By Dan Gelston The Associated Press JIMMIE JOHNSON gets his old No. 48 back for his final Cup race at next season’s Daytona 500. Even with the white flag about to drop on Johnson’s racing career, he’s still one of stock car racing’s biggest stars — and by Daytona, he should have a spot on the Hollywood Walk of Fame to prove it. “I’m going out swinging,” Johnson said with a laugh. The 50-year-old Johnson is busy in the boardroom these days looking for investors and growing his race team as the majority owner of Legacy. Almost as busy as he was on the track, when he was one of three drivers to win seven NASCAR Cup Series championships, earning a spot in the Hall of Fame. Johnson is expected to make his 703rd and final — for real, this time — Cup start in February’s Daytona 500. Until then, the two-time Daytona 500 champion is spending his time sharpening Legacy’s future. Johnson growing into ownership role Johnson used to spend his race weekends signing countless autographs in the garage. The fan requests are still there, for sure, only now his signature is needed more on the dotted line for deals, including trying to back longtime sponsor Lowe’s to the 48 — a number Hendrick Motorsports driver Alex Bowman surrendered for the Daytona 500. Johnson also soon hopes to announce Legacy’s third driver for the 2027 season. Johnson added some big-time winners to his race team last month as part of a strategic ownership group that includes championship athletes, Grammy Award winners, entrepreneurs, investors, motorsport greats and cultural leaders. The Legacy investors include

IndyCar champions Scott Dixon and Dario Franchitti, two-time National League MVP Bryce Harper, Indianapolis 500 winner Tony Kanaan, U.S. Open champion Andy Roddick, Grammy winner Darius Rucker, celebrity chef Guy Fieri and six-time MLB All-Star Chase Utley. “Jimmie’s a good friend of mine, and I like what he’s doing,” Utley said. “It’s interesting, and it’s going to be a good experience.” Johnson said his star-studded friend group is made up of true investors who are equitable partners in Legacy. More celebrity investors are expected to be announced later this year. “Sure, I did well racing,” Johnson said. “But I don’t have an enterprise like Penske or Hendrick to activate and utilize and drive that success year over year.” Johnson became the majority owner of Legacy under a restructuring ahead of last season in which investment adviser Knighthead Capital Management bought into the Cup Series team. “I knew at some point I’d probably want an investor, but I didn’t know what that would look like,” Johnson said. “There was a lot of thought around other franchises and leagues, how you create profitability. The stick-and-ball sport and the way they do it makes a lot of sense. It’s just a different way to generate the income to win races and championships. From there, to bring investors on, you need a pathway to profitability.” Erik Jones and John Hunter Nemechek are expected to return, with Riley Herbst widely expected to join Legacy in 2027. Jones is 20th and Nemechek is 28th in the Cup points standings. The drivers are winless and have a combined three top-five finishes as Legacy has yet to break through into a franchise that can at least compete for checkered flags. “Some days look good,” Johnson said, “some days don’t.” Johnson dedicated to turning Legacy into winner Johnson only raced in Cup this season at the Daytona 500

WATCHLISTS from page B1 of good players on each team’s roster. The team with more good players is expected to win. If they have the same number of good players, we say it’s too close to call and treat it like a tie game in our predictions. Our definition of “good player” is basically anyone that was included on the preseason watchlist for the 16 or so major awards for College Football, ranging from the Walter Camp player of the year to the position awards such as Thorpe (top defensive back), Groza (best kicker) and Rimington (best center). The model has survived ACC expansion, the pandemic, the tectonic changes to the sport due to NIL and transfer portal rules, and it still always surprises us with what it gets right. Here’s a selection of the high points from last season’s preseason predictions.

HITS FROM 2025 Team ................ Predicted ............. Actual UNC .................. 4-7-1, 2-5-1 .............. 4-8, 2-6 Duke .................. 7-1 ACC ................... 6-2 NC State ........... 7-5, 4-4 ................... 7-5, 4-4 Charlotte .......... 0-10-2 ..................... 1-11 Miami ................ 10-2 ......................... 10-2 Louisville........... 8-4, 4-4................... 8-4, 4-4 FSU ................... 5-6-1........................ 5-7 SMU .................. 8-3-1, 6-2 ................ 8-4, 6-2

Full disclosure: We didn’t get everything right. We had five-win App State slotted as a winless team and thought 8-4 Wake would go 4-7-1. The ACC’s two West Coast teams also have a bone to pick with us, as does UVA. So what does the model think we have in store for this season? We hate to be the bearer of bad news, but it looks like only two team fanbases in North Carolina should be looking for time off around the holidays to make a bowl trip.

“I’m going out swinging.” Jimmie Johnson and the debut race at Naval Base Coronado. “I’ve been slowly weaning myself off,” Johnson said. “Now that I’ve found something that’s keeping me so busy and so invigorated in the sport, I’m still competing, it’s the race within the race, I am fully ready and also very excited for that day and the build up for it and all the great collaborations that will be announced shortly.” Johnson found comfort zone at Legacy Johnson’s last full-time season in NASCAR was 2020, and he spent the ensuing years chasing success in IndyCar. Johnson never had a podium finish in two years in IndyCar and wrecked out of his only Indianapolis 500 in 2022. “That was really intentional for me go there and have fun and do it,” Johnson said. “As the two years went by, I was kind of shocked that I didn’t. ... I was having tons of fun, but I wasn’t fulfilled. I was like, ‘What the hell is this?’ The opportunity with (Legacy) came about, and I wasn’t sure where it would go or how fulfilling it would be. While thinking through the two years of IndyCar and slowing down my Cup career, what does it look like post-driving? What do I want to do?” Johnson went on to compete in endurance races and worked in broadcasting. There was only one true calling for him, and it was back at the race tracks — even if not always behind the wheel — at Daytona, Dover and Darlington. “I was going to end up back in NASCAR,” Johnson said. “I had no idea it was going to turn into this.” He’s ready for one final time — and one more win — at Daytona. “Let’s blow this thing up,” Johnson said. “Why not?”

For the other five teams in the state, the prospects for the season appear bleak.

LONG SEASON Team ................ Predicted record NC State ........... 4-5-3, 2-4-3 UNC .................. 2-8-2, 0-6-2 Wake ................. 0-10-2, 0-9 ECU ................... 0-9-3 Charlotte .......... 0-9-3

As for the ACC standings, it looks like the new tiebreaker model will get its first test as we see Miami, Virginia and Louisville all going undefeated in conference, just ahead of Clemson and SMU.

ACC STANDINGS Team ................ Overall record...... ACC record Miami ................ 12-0 ......................... 9-0 Virginia ............. 12-0 ......................... 9-0 Louisville........... 11-1 .......................... 9-0 Clemson ........... 9-2-1 ........................ 7-1 SMU .................. 9-3........................... 7-2 Pitt .................... 9-2-1 ........................ 6-2-1 Duke .................. 8-3-1 ........................ 5-3 Georgia Tech .... 6-4-2 ....................... 4-2-2 NC State ........... 4-5-3 ....................... 2-4-3 Cal ..................... 3-6-3 ....................... 2-4-3 FSU ................... 4-8 .......................... 2-6 Virginia Tech .... 3-7-2 ........................ 2-6-2 UNC .................. 2-8-2 ....................... 0-6-2 Syracuse .......... 3-6-3 ....................... 1-4-3 Stanford ........... 2-10 ......................... 1-8 Boston College 1-11 .......................... 0-8 Wake Forest ..... 0-10-2 ..................... 0-9

BOWL PLANS Team ................ Predicted record Duke .................. 8-3-1, 5-3 ACC App State ......... 7-4-1

The league is looking at eight bowl bids. Of course, the ACC is planning to actually play all the games on the field. So don’t take our word for it. Just remember, when it’s all said and done, we told you so.

REED SAXON / AP PHOTO

Former pitcher Tommy John, left, chats with Dr. Frank Jobe, who invented ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction surgery, now better known as Tommy John surgery, as both are honored before a game. In the procedure, which saved the career of John after he underwent it in 1974, a ligament in the medial elbow is replaced with a tendon from elsewhere in the body.

John, namesake for pioneering elbow surgery that saved his career, dead at 83 More than 2,600 players have had the surgery that saved his career By Beth Harris The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — Tommy John, who won 288 games during a 26-year big league career and became the first pitcher to successfully return following groundbreaking elbow surgery that later was named after him, has died. He was 83. He died at his home in Bradenton, Florida, on Saturday night. He had been in hospice care. On Aug. 8, the New York Yankees released a social media post in which John wrote that he wanted to say goodbye to everyone, including friends and fans who followed him throughout his career, saying, “I will never forget you.” The Yankees called John “a bedrock of our rotation during his time in pinstripes and a longtime favorite of Yankees fans.” John was a four-time All-Star with a record of 288-231 and a 3.34 ERA during a career that stretched from 1963 to 1989. He pitched for Cleveland, the Chicago White Sox, the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Yankees, the California Angels and the Oakland Athletics. “Tommy was an exceptional pitcher throughout his career in Major League Baseball, and his courageous role in becoming the first to have surgery that would go on to bear his name can’t be overstated,” Stan Kasten, Dodgers president and CEO, said in a statement. “His impact both on and off the field has been felt by ballplayers of all ages and will be for generations to come.” The left-hander was 31 years old when he tore the ulnar collateral ligament in his pitching elbow in 1974, a death knell for pitchers’ careers to that point. John allowed Dr. Frank Jobe, the Dodgers’ team physician, to replace the ligament with a tendon from his right forearm. Jobe gave the surgery 100-to-1 odds of being successful. John was a great pitcher, but his elbow surgery made him a baseball legend The procedure had been done on others before, although it was usually performed on wrists and hands. John was the first pitcher to have it done on his elbow. More than 2,600 big leaguers and thousands more amateurs have since had UCL reconstructions, better known as Tommy John surgery. It’s been a godsend for many of baseball’s greatest stars, including two-way sensation Shohei Ohtani, three-time Cy Young Award winner Justin Verlander and even Philadelphia Phillies slugger Bryce Harper.

“If you put it in dollars and cents, I think there’s no question that Tommy John is the most valuable reconstructive procedure there is,” Dodgers team physician Dr. Neal ElAttrache said. Born Thomas Edward John Jr. on May 22, 1943, in Terre Haute, Indiana, John chose baseball despite being recruited by the University of Kentucky to play basketball, signing with Cleveland. John recorded 2,245 and has the second-most wins of any pitcher since 1900 not to be elected to the Hall of Fame. John won more games after eponymous surgery Known for his longevity, John was the opening day starter for both the 1966 Chicago White Sox and the 1989 New York Yankees. He won 124 games before his UCL repair and 164 after. His final appearance came days after his 46th birthday. The Yankees called him “an athletic and medical pioneer.” In 1974, John had a 13-3 record and led the National League in victories going into the All-Star break. He was pitching against the Montreal Expos when he permanently damaged the UCL in his left arm. After a month, the injury had not improved. During the four-hour surgery on Sept. 25, 1974, Jobe made holes in the humerus and ulna bones of John’s left arm and used anchors to insert the tendon in a figure-eight pattern. At first, John’s left hand was shriveled and he lacked feeling in several of his fingers because of damage to the ulnar nerve. Jobe performed a second procedure to reroute the nerve that was necessary to John’s full recovery. John’s arm was in a cast for four months. He had recovered the full range of motion in his left arm by spring training of 1975 and spent that season resting, healing and rebuilding strength in his arm. John worked with fellow Dodgers pitcher Mike Marshall, who had a doctorate in kinesiology, on learning a different grip. That September he made five appearances during an offseason instructional league, working his way up to seven innings by his final game. John resumed pitching for the Dodgers in 1976 as the fourth starter in their rotation. He allowed three runs in five innings and took the loss in his first start against Atlanta, the first time any pitcher had started a game following UCL reconstructive surgery. John donated the original cast from his surgery to the Smithsonian Institution in June 2022. The procedure has become so widely known that in 2019, Merriam-Webster added the term to its dictionary.

B5

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 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: 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 NORTH COUNTY

CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND 25 SP 000977-250

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Sherry A. Miller, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $116,222.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as beneficiary, as nominee for Nationstar Mortgage, LLC D/B/A Mr. Cooper, Mortgagee, dated May 6th, 2021 and recorded on May 12th, 2021 in Book 11119, Page 0638, 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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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 10:00 AM on August 31st, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Being all of Lot No. One Hundred Eighty Two (182), in a Subdivision known as Fairway Forest, Section 8, Phase 1, Area 2, according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Plat Book 99, Page 125, in the Cumberland County, North Carolina Registry. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 4211 Achilles Drive, Hope Mills, NC 28348 Tax ID: 0403-99-8229 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 Sherry A. Miller. 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.

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 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:

highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 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

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the

property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential

real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

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:

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

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.

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

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 24-001532-01

26-124406

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

03-54863

B6

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND 26CV006687-250 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in a judgment bearing the caption “Town of Spring Lake, North Carolina, Plaintiff v. Spring Lake Property Acquisitions, Inc.; Substitute Trustee Services. Substitute Trustee, Defendants” 26CV006687-250, Cumberland County and pursuant to the terms of the judgment, the undersigned Commissioner will offer for sale that certain property as described below. Said sale will be held in the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina at 12:00 p.m. on September 2, 2026 at the Cumberland County Courthouse door 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: PARCELS 1, 2, 3: State of North Carolina County of Cumberland Manchester Township Being all of the property conveyed to Judith Robinson Williams by Deed recorded in Book 2739, Page 245, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Public Registry, and being described as follows: TRACT ONE: BEING A PART of a tract of land recorded in Book 715, page 223, Cumberland County Registry. BEGINNING 56.3 feet along the third line of the above mentioned conveyance, said point being on the northwest boundary of a 60 foot State Road leading from Manchester to Southern Pines, thence North 14 degrees 14 minutes West 93.7 feet to the end of the said third line, said point being the northeast corner of a 36.5 acre tract; thence with the fourth line of above mentioned conveyance South 72 degrees 30 minutes West 371.9 feet to the end of said line; thence with the fifth line of said conveyance South 4 degrees 24 minutes West 136.5 feet to a point on the western boundary of the aforesaid 60 foot road; thence a new line bordering on the northwest margin of said road North 67 degrees 58 minutes East 418.8 feet to the point of BEGINNING, containing 1 acre more or less. For history of title see deed recorded in Book 736, Page 150, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Parcel ID: 9592-62-2410 Property address: N/A TRACT TWO: BEGINNING at the fourth course of the first tract of land described in deed of LUCY G. MURCHISON to O.A. WADDELL dated February 16, 1911, which deed is of record in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Cumberland County in Book 199, Page 211, which point was formerly a common corner between the Waddell land and the land of the Carolina Power and Light Company, at which point there is now a concrete marker on the line of the land belonging to the United States of America; and running thence North 11 degrees 06 minutes 33 seconds East about 990 feet to the bank of LOWER LITTLE RIVER; thence up the bank and course of the said river, about South 29 degrees West about 429 feet to a ditch; thence with the ditch South 41 degrees 22 minutes 48 seconds East about 528 feet to a turn in the ditch; thence South 21 degrees 02 minutes 43 seconds East about 181 ½ feet to the BEGINNING, containing 3.83 acres, more or less, and being the same land described in the second tract in deed from LUCY G. MURCHISON to O.A. WADDELL, dated February 16, 1911, of record in Book 199, Page 211, Cumberland County Registry. For history of title see deed recorded in Book 707, Page 274, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Parcel ID: 9592-53-8878 Property address: N/A TRACT THREE: BEGINNING at a stake in the Western line of a five acre tract belonging to Col. R. S. Williams, at a point North 17 degrees 29 minutes West about 150 feet from the South west corner of said original tract of said five acres, and running thence with Williams’ Western line North 17 degrees 29 minutes West about 460 feet to a stake, Williams’ Northwest corner of his five acre tract; thence North 16 degrees 42 minutes 40 seconds West 373.83 feet to a stake; thence North 23 degrees 55 minutes 10 seconds West 180.61 feet to a stake; thence North 44 degrees 15 minutes 14 seconds West about 460 feet to Vreelands; corner of a tract of 6.7 acres; thence South 14 degrees 14 minutes East 1550.2 feet to an iron stake in the Northwestern margin of an unpaved road (known as the Old River Road); thence along said road North 69 degrees 15 minutes East 300 feet more or less to the point of the beginning; being 6.87 acres more or less, being approximately onehalf of the tract which was previously 15.6 acres, which original tract is described in a deed made by Ethel Deyton and husband, Howe Deyton to Dudley Deyton and wife, Margaret B. Deyton, in 1950 said deed being recorded in Book No. 555, Page 189 of Deeds in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Cumberland County. (For reference to a deed conveying another portion of said original tract, see deed from Dedley Deyton and wife, to James B. Roberts and wife, in Book 556, Page 170, in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Cumberland County, North Carolina. For history of title see Deed recorded in Book 648, Page 135, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Parcel ID: 9592-62-1921 Property address: 940 W. Manchester Road, Spring Lake, NC Tract One, Tract Two and Tract Three above being the same property conveyed in the Deed from Allen C. Edens, Jr. to Judith Robinson Williams recorded in Book 2739, Page 245, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. The above-described tracts bear Cumberland County parcel identification numbers 9592-62-1921, 9592-62-2410, and 9592-53-8878. LESS AND EXPECTING any portion of the above-described property which was conveyed by Judith Robinson Williams to Michele Horne and husband, by deed recorded in Book 3638, Page 733, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. PARCELS 4, 5, 6: TRACT FOUR: STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP Being bounded on the west by (now or formerly) RSRC Properties, LLC (Deed Book 9359, Page 0739); on the north by (now or formerly) RSRC Properties, LLC (Deed Book 9359, Page 0739); on the east by (now or formerly) Jerry Lee Hall (Deed Book 4344, Page 0621); and on the south by Fort Bragg Military Reservation. BEGINNING at a point in the northern margin of the road or drive leading into the pumping station, 215 feet East of the concrete monument which is located nearest the said pumping station, known as the corner of Capt. Webb’s land, at the edge of the Military Reservation, and running thence due North 200 feet to a stake, at the corner of How and Ethel Deaton’s land; running thence due West 107 ½ feet to a stake, at Deaton’s corner; thence running due South 200 feet to the northern margin of the road or drive which leads to the pumping station to a point

107 ½ feet east of the concrete monument which designates the corner marker of the Captain Webb Land, which was sold to How and Ethel Deaton, and is now known as the corner of the Deaton property in the line of the Military Reservation, running thence in an easterly direction along the margin of the road or drive 107 ½ feet to the point of beginning. The above described land is also the same land conveyed to Edwin D. Bonner and wife, Ethel M. Bonner, by deed dated June 6, 1955 from Jack M. Greene and wife, Kathleen G. Greene, recorded in Book 670, Page 287 in the aforesaid registry. Title Reference: Book 4344; Page 621: Book 795, Page 455, Cumberland County Registry. Parcel ID: 9591-39-2873 Property Address: 1426 Waterworks Road, Spring Lake, NC TRACT FIVE: STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP BEGINNING at a concrete monument in the North margin of the Road leading to the Pumping Station [said monument being situated 236.04 feet Easterly from the entrance to the Pumping Station]; thence running North 60 degrees 15 minutes 42 seconds East 87 ½ feet to an iron stake; thence North 0 degrees 0 minutes 0 seconds 291 feet to an iron stake; thence West 0 degrees 0 minutes 0 seconds 100 feet to an iron stake, the corner of Ethel Deyton’s line; thence South 0 degrees 0 minutes 0 seconds 330 feet to an iron stake in the Northern margin of the road leading to the Pumping Station [said stake being now the corner of Green & Byrd property] ; thence along the margin of the said Road North 85 degrees 33 minutes 48 seconds East 21.04 feet to the point of the beginning. Being a part of the property described in deed from Ada K. Williams, and husband Robert S. Williams, to Sam Byrd & wife Ruby Byrd recorded in Book 534 at page 255, Office of the Register of Deeds of Cumberland County, North Carolina, and a part of the same property deeded by Mrs. Louise Dunn Wyche, et als, to Mrs. Ada Williams, recorded in Book 496 at Page 229 in Cumberland County Registry. And being the same property deeded by Capt. Sam Byrd & wife Ruby Byrd, to Jack M. Green & wife Kathleen McN., Green, on the 24th day of July 1950. Parcel ID: 9591-39-3960 Property Address: 1404 Waterworks Road, Spring Lake, NC TRACT SIX: State of North Carolina County of Cumberland Two tracts of land containing collectively approximately 5.26 acres of land, commonly known as Dilton Mobile Home Park, Spring Lake, Manchester Township, Cumberland County, North Carolina, and described as follows: FIRST TRACT: BEGINNING at a concrete monument on the south bank of the Lower Little River the northeast corner of the Fort Bragg Reservation on which is located the pumping station, and running thence with the line of the Fort Bragg Reservation, South 0 degrees 17 minutes 18 seconds West 629.3 feet to a concrete monument, thence continuing South 0 degrees 17 minutes 25 seconds East 294.25 feet to a concrete monument; thence continuing South 0 degrees 17 minutes39 seconds East 133 feet to a two inch iron post; thence continuing South 0 degrees 17 minutes 39 seconds East approximately 256 feet to the northern margin of the road leading into the pumping station on Fort Bragg Military Reservation, said point being also a corner of the Military Reservation; and running thence with the said road North 85 degrees 33 minutes 48 seconds East 107.5 feet to a metal marker; thence due North 0 degrees 200 feet; thence East 0 degrees107.5 feet to an iron stake; thence North 0 degrees 630 feet to an iron stake; thence West 0 degrees 107.5 feet to an iron marker in the center of a new road; thence due North 0 degrees to the bank of Lower Little River; thence up the River in a westerly direction to the point of BEGINNING. Being the same property described in a deed dated 9 January, 1958 from Howe Deyton and wife, Ethel Renfro Deyton to Melvin Johnson and wife Essie Johnson recorded in Book 745, Page 134 Cumberland County, North Carolina Registry, and is subject to the right of way reservation and easement as set out in said deed. SECOND TRACT: BEGINNING at a stake in the approximate center of a road at the Deyton-Byrd corner, thence South 0 degrees 493 feet to a stake at the Deyton-Norris corner; thence 0 degrees East 100 feet on the Norris line to a stake; thence North 11 degrees 27 minutes West to the point and place of BEGINNING, containing 0.42 acres more or less. For reference see Book 5478, Page 81 Cumberland County Registry, which Deed is incorporated herein as if set out in full and made part of this description. First Tract and Second Tract described above being all of the property described in the Deed recorded in Book 9359, Page 739, Cumberland County, NC, Public Registry. And being the property bearing Cumberland County parcel identification number: 959230-1492 Property address: 1603 Knight Place, Spring Lake, NC PARCEL 7: TRACT SEVEN: LYING in Manchester Township, Cumberland County, near Spring Lake, North Carolina, this subject property being bounded on the north by lands deeded and conveyed to Campbell University Foundation, Inc. as recorded in Deed Book 7447, Page 403; on the east by lands deeded and conveyed to Gary Ellis Edge in Deed Book 4909, Page 484, and also shown as Lot 3 in Plat Book 104, Page 15, and by lands deeded and conveyed to Roy Leon Hall in Deed Book 6154, Page 522, and also shown as Lot 2 in Plat Book 102, Page 40; on the south by the Fort Bragg Military Reservation; and on the west by lands deeded and conveyed to Campbell University Foundation, Inc. in Deed Book 7447, Page 403. All referenced materials located in the Cumberland County Registry. COMMENCING from a mag nail, said mag nail being located in the approximate centerline of West Manchester Road (SR 1451 – having a 60 foot public right of way), and runs thence North 49 degrees 09 minutes 58 seconds West for a distance of 131.85 feet to an iron pipe, said iron pipe being a common property corner between the subject property and the aforementioned Campbell University property (west), said iron pipe also being the true point and place of BEGINNING; THENCE with common property line between the subject property and the Campbell University property, North 20 degrees 09 minutes 18 seconds West for a distance of 605.15 feet to an iron rebar, said iron rebar being a common property corner between the subject property and the two Campbell University properties; THENCE with the common property line between the subject property and the Campbell University property (north), North 85 degrees 35 minutes 48 seconds East for a distance of 668.3 feet to an iron rebar, said iron rebar being a common property corner between the subject property, the Campbell University property, the aforementioned Edge property, and the aforementioned Hall property; THENCE with the common property line between the subject and the Hall property, South 27 degrees 29 minutes 53 seconds East for a distance of 308.51 fee to a bent iron pipe with a nail, said bent iron pipe being a common property corner between the

subject property, the Hall property, and the Fort Bragg Military Reservation; THENCE with the common property line between the subject property and the Fort Bragg Military Reservation, South 60 degrees 02 minutes 01 seconds West for a distance of 478.60 feet to a concrete monument; THENCE continuing with the common property line between the subject property and the Fort Bragg Military Reservation, South 60 degrees 06 minutes 57 seconds West for a distance of214.14 feet to an iron pipe, said iron pipe being the true point and place of BEGINNING. Together with and subject to any easements, restrictions, and covenants of record. Subject property contains 301,459 square feet / 6.921 acres. This description was prepared this 12th day of April, 2007 under the direct supervision of Michael J. Adams, PLS L-4491 and is based on a physical survey performed by M.A.P.S. Surveying, Inc. Together with such easements as specific and described in the Easement For Access and Utilities from Roy Leon Hall and wife, Elma Dale Hall, Grantors, to Preserve, LLC, Grantee, recorded in Book 8686, Page 473, Cumberland County, North Carolina Public Registry (the terms and conditions of such instrument being incorporated herein by reference) over, under and upon the following property: LYING in Manchester Township, near the town of Spring Lake, North Carolina, this subject property being bounded on the north by the lands deeded and conveyed to Roy Leon Hall in Deed Book 6154, Page 522 (of which this is a part), and also being shown as Lot 2 on a plat entitled “Subdivision For Gary Ellis Edge” and recorded in Plat Book 102, Page 40; on the east by the western right of way margin of Manchester Road (SR 1451); on the south by Fort Bragg Reservation; and on the west by lands deeded and conveyed to Preserve LLC in Deed Book 7594, Page 1. All referenced materials located in the Cumberland County Registry. BEGINNING at an iron stake, said iron stake being the southeastern property corner of the aforementioned Hall property, said iron stake also being located on the western right of way margin of Manchester Road, said iron stake also being a common property corner between the Hall Property and the Fort Bragg Reservation, and runs thence as the common property line between the Hall property and the Fort Bragg Reservation, South 63 degrees 51 minutes 40 seconds West, passing through a concrete monument at a distance of 22.92 feet for a total distance of 394.57 feet to an iron pipe, said iron pipe being a common property corner between the Hall property, the Fort Bragg Reservation, and the aforementioned Preserve LLC property. THENCE with the common property line between the Hall property and the Preserve LLC property, North 23 degrees 51 minutes 39 seconds West for a distance of 20.01 feet to a point; THENCE a new line, North 63 degrees 51 minutes 40 seconds East for distance of 412.47’ feet to a point, said point being located on the western right of way margin of Manchester Road; THENCE with the Western right of way margin of Manchester Road, South 16 degrees 38 minutes 01 seconds West for a distance of 27.23 feet to an iron stake, said iron stake being the true point and place of BEGINNING, and being a 20 foot Ingress/ Egress Easement across the southernmost 20 feet of the Roy Leon Hall property. Together with and subject to any easements, restrictions, and covenants of record. Subject property contains 8,067 square feet/0.185 acres. This description was prepared this 30th day of June, 2011 under the direct supervision of Michael J. Adams, PLSL-4491 / CFS NC-075 and is based on plats and deeds of record. Parcel ID: 9592-40-0485 Property address: 1220 Manchester Road, Spring Lake, NC PARCELS 8, 9, 10: State of North Carolina Cumberland County Manchester Township Tract#1 BEGINNING at a stake on the South bank of Lower Little River, the northeast corner of a tract of 15.6 acres and running thence with the eastern line of said tract South 20 degrees 9 minutes 18 seconds East 490 feet to stake in the approximate center of a dirt road, thence North 85 degrees 33 minutes East to a stake in the approximate center of the same road to the Frank line (formerly Wyche) thence North 27 degrees 34 minutes West 719 feet along the Frank line to a stake; thence North 53 degrees 14 minutes East 185 feet to a stake on the south bank of Lower Little River; thence up the river to the beginning, containing 9.3 acres, more or less. Being a part of the land conveyed to Nirma Whitson and wife, Kate R. Whitson by Mrs. Bland Metts and husband, Walter Metts, by deed recorded in Book 683, Page 235, Cumberland County Registry. For further reference see Book 683, Page 311, Cumberland County Registry. Parcel ID: 9592-30-9928 Property address: N/A Tract#2 BEGINNING at a concrete monument in the north margin of the road leading to the pumping station North 60 degrees 15 minutes 42 seconds East 694.3 feet to a stake; thence North 20 degrees 9 minutes 18 seconds West 1095 feet to a stake on the south bank of Lower Little River; thence up the river, 259 feet to an iron stake, the Green line; thence due South approximately 1312 feet to an iron stake in the north margin of the road leading to the pumping station, thence North 85 degrees 33 minutes 48 seconds East 21.04 feet to the beginning, containing 9.6 acres, more or less, and being part of the land described in dated 7 June 1945 from Mrs. Louis Dunn Wyche and husband and other, to Mrs. Ada Williams recorded in Book 496, page 229, Cumberland County Registry. For further reference, see Book 534, Page 255, Cumberland County Registry. LESS AND EXPECTING the tract of property conveyed and described in the Deed recorded in Book 562, Page 202, and the tract of property conveyed and described in the Deed recorded in Book 683, Page 322, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Public Registry. Parcel ID: 9592-30-5267 Property address: N/A Tract #3 BEGINNING at an iron stake on the South bank of Lower Little River, said stake being 107 ½ feet downstream from a concrete marker in the government military reservation line; thence South 0 degrees 0 minutes 0 seconds 482 feet along the line of Ethel Deyton property to an iron stake; thence East 0 degrees 0 minutes 0 seconds 107 ½ feet to an iron stake in the center of the road; thence due North 0 degrees 0 minutes 0 seconds approximately 482 feet to the South bank of Lower Little River; thence upstream along the bank of the River to the point of beginning approximately 107 ½ feet; and being part of the property deeded to Jack N. Greene, by Capt. Webb, and recorded in Book 523, at Page 298 and deed to Capt. Webb by Ada Williams recorded in Book 500, Page 148, see also deed to Ada Williams, form Mrs. Louise Dunn Wyche, et als, recorded in Book 496, Page 22, all in the office of the Register of Deeds for Cumberland County, North Carolina. For further reference, see Book 558, Page 283, Cumberland County Registry, Estate File 92 E 121 in the Estates Division of the Clerk of Superior Court for Cumberland County, North Carolina, and Book 4080 Page 326. Tract #s 1, 2 and 3 described above being

all of that property shown as Tracts A and B (together with and/or including the tract of property consisting of 1.071 acres, more or less) as shown on the survey map attached hereto and incorporated herein as Exhibit B entitled “Survey For Campbell University” prepared by W. Larry King, RLS number L-1339, dated August 13, 1999. Parcel ID: 9592-30-2749 Property address: N/A PARCELS 11 AND 12: State of North Carolina County of Cumberland Manchester Township TRACT ONE: BEING ALL OF LOTS 2 and 3, as shown on the COMPOSITE AND RECOMBINATION PLAT FOR GARY ELLIS EDGE AND WIFE PAULA J. EDGE AND MARTHA K. FRANKS, UNMARRIED, JOHN H. FRANKS AND WIFE, DEBRA B. FRANKS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 99, PAGE 29 IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS FOR CUMBERLAND COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, less and except the property conveyed by Nancy B. Franks, widow, to Town of Spring Lake, a North Carolina Municipal Corporation, recorded in Book 10479, Page 0798, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Public Registry. Property bearing Cumberland County parcel identification number 9592-41-7715. Property address: N/A TRACT TWO: Being all of the tract of property consisting of .89 acres, more of less, being described as follows: All of that portion of land as conveyed by the deed recorded in Book 674, Page 136, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Public Registry, which lies north and/or west of West Manchester Road. LESS AND EXPECTING the following tracts: The property containing approximately .48 acre, more or less, conveyed by deed from Robert G. Franks and wife, Martha Franks, to Walling D. Vreeland and wife, Dorothy H. Vreeland recorded in Book 641, Page 321, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Public Registry; The property conveyed by deed from Martha K. Franks, Grantor, to the United States of America, recorded in Book 3034, Page 385, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Public Registry; The property conveyed by deed from Franks Mobile Home Park, Inc. Grantor, to Spring Lake Property Acquisitions, Inc, recorded in Book 10665, Page 697, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Public Registry; The property conveyed by deed from Stevens MHP, Inc., Grantor, to Spring Lake Property Acquisitions, Inc, recorded in Book 10598, Page 129, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Public Registry; and Being all of Lots 2 and 3, as shown on the Composite and Recombination Plat for Gary Ellis Edge and wife Paula J. Edge and Martha K. Franks, unmarried, John H. Franks and wife, Debra B. Franks recorded in Plat Book 99, Page 29 in the office of the Register of Deeds for Cumberland County, North Carolina. Said property consisting of .89 acre, more or less, bearing Cumberland County parcel identification number 9592-52-8275. Property address: N/A PARCEL 13: STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP BEING all of Lot 5, Composite and Recombination Plat for Gary Ellis Edge & wife Paula J. Edge and Martha K. Franks, Unmarried, John H. Franks and wife, Debra B. Franks as shown on a plat map of the same recorded in Book of Plats 99, Page 29, in the office of the Register of Deeds for Cumberland County, North Carolina. Parcel ID: 9592-52-3523 Property address: 1432 Franks Road, Spring Lake, NC PARCEL 14: STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP Beginning at an iron pipe in the northern right-of-way margin of State Road Number 1451, said beginning point being located as follows: Begin at an iron pipe at the first and beginning corner of the 42.4 acres tract of which this is a part as recorded in Deed Book 674, page 136, Cumberland County Registry, and runs thence from said iron pipe and with the western line of a 0.44 acre tract conveyed to Walling Vreeland from the tract of which this is a part and recorded in Deed Book 641, page 321, Cumberland County Registry, South 12 degrees 30 minutes East 96.15 feet to Vreeland’s southwest corner; thence with Vreeland’s southern line North 74 degrees 04 minutes East 30.0 feet; thence leaving Vreeland’s southern line South 11 degrees 54 minutes East 63.70 feet to an iron pipe in the northern margin of State Road Number 1451; thence with the northern margin of State Road Number 1451, the following courses and distances; South 66 degrees 03 minutes West 100.0 feet, South 64 degrees 28 minutes West 100.0 feet, South 61 degrees 39 minutes West 100.0 feet and South 54 degrees 48 minutes West 128.27 feet to an iron pipe at the beginning point of the hereinafter described tract; from this iron pipe and beginning point of this description continue with the northern margin of State Road Number 1451, South 46 degrees 22 minutes West 100.0 feet; thence continuing with the northern margin of State Road Number 1451, South 40 degrees 17 minutes West 74.0 feet; thence leaving the margin of State Road Number 1451, North 8 degrees 21 minutes West 232.0 feet; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes West 686.56 feet; thence North 56 degrees 18 minutes West 211.0 feet to the southeastern margin of Lower Little River; thence down the southeastern margin of Lower Little River as it meanders (overall bearing and distance, North 42 degrees 32 minutes East 1137.07 feet) to a point on the southeastern margin of Lower Little River; thence leaving Lower Little River, South 4 degrees 58 minutes East 574.25 feet; thence South 89 degrees 59 minutes East 21.90 feet; thence South 00 degrees 01 minute West 315.05 feet; thence South 44 degrees 59 minutes East 248.53 feet to the point of beginning, containing 10.68 acres, more or less. Being a part of the land hereinabove referred to described in deed recorded in Book 674, page 136 in the office of the Register of Deeds for Cumberland County, North Carolina. Parcel ID: 9592-42-8217 Property address: 1530 Franks Road, Spring Lake, NC PARCEL 15: State of North Carolina County of Cumberland Beginning at an iron stake, located South 89 degrees 40 minutes West 170.95 feet from an iron stake on the western margin of the road leading from North Carolina Highway No. 87 to Pope Field, said stake being the northeast corner of a tract of land described in Book 1071, page 151, Cumberland County Registry, and running thence South 0 degrees 20 minutes East 150.40 feet to an iron stake; thence North 87 degrees 48 minutes West 145.63 feet to an iron stake; thence North 0 degrees 20 minutes West 144.0 feet to an iron stake; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes East 145.50 feet to the point of beginning. Containing fifty-five hundredths (.55) acres, more or less. Together with the perpetual easement of right of way as follows: Beginning at an iron stake located on the western margin of the road leading from North Carolina Highway No. 87 to Pope Field, said stake being the northeast corner of a tract of land conveyed to J. O. Tally, Trustee,

as shown in Book No. 1071, page 151, Cumberland County Registry, and running thence as the western line of the said road, South 19 degrees 6 minutes West 10 feet; thence South 89 degrees 40 minutes West 170.95 feet to the eastern line of the tract of land herein conveyed; thence North 0 degrees 20 minutes West 10 feet to a point in the middle of a dirt road extending from the new road to Little River thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes East 170.95 feet, more or less, to the BEGINNING. And being a tract of land 10 feet wide and extending 170 feet across the northern portion of the Strickland Lot, as shown in Book No. 1071, page 151, Cumberland County Registry. Parcel ID: 9592-41-8433 Property address: 1104 W. Manchester Road, Spring Lake, NC PARCEL 16: STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND MANCHESTER TOWNSHIP BEGINNING at an iron stake on the western margin of a road leading from Highway Number 87 to Pope Field, said stake being South 89 degrees 40 minutes West 109.15 feet from an iron stake in the old road adjoining the Robert C. Franks property which said stake is also located 17.40 feet southwardly from a wild cherry tree and running thence with the western margin of the said new road South 19 degrees 06 minutes West 165.00 feet to an iron stake; thence North 87 degrees 46 minutes West 116.64 feet to an iron stake; thence North 0 degrees 07 minutes West 150.37 feet to an iron stake; thence North 89 degrees 40 minutes East 170.85 feet to the beginning point. And being all of the property conveyed by Deed to Daniel J. Carnett and wife, Kwi Bun Carnett recorded in Book 7708, Page 0411, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Public Registry. See also Deed recorded in Book 2929, Page 587, Cumberland County, North Carolina, General Registry. Bearing Cumberland County, NC PIN: 959241-9484. Property address: 1100 W. Manchester Road, Spring Lake, NC PARCELS 17, 18 & 19: State of North Carolina County of Cumberland Manchester Township BEING all of Lots 1 and 3 of the Subdivision for Gary Ellis Edge as shown on a plat map of the same duly recorded in Plat Book 104, Page 15, Cumberland County, NC, Public Registry. BEING all of Lot 2 of the Subdivision for Gary Ellis Edge as shown on a plat map of the same duly recorded in Plat Book 102, Page 40, Cumberland County Registry. The above described lots being all of that property conveyed to Gary Ellis Edge and wife, Paula J. Edge by deed recorded in Book 4909, Page 484, Cumberland County, NC Public Registry. Parcel 17 ID: 9592-40-6653 Property address: 1170 W. Manchester Road, Spring Lake, NC Parcel 18 ID: 9592-40-5543 Property address: 1184 W. Manchester Road, Spring Lake, NC Parcel 19 ID: 9592-40-4990 Property address: 1160 W. Manchester Road, Spring Lake, NC PARCEL 20: State of North Carolina County of Cumberland Manchester Township BEING all of Lot 4 of the Subdivision for Gary Ellis Edge as shown on a plat map of the same duly recorded in Plat Book 104, Page 15, Cumberland County, NC, Public Registry. And being a portion of the property conveyed to Gary Ellis Edge and wife, Paula J. Edge by deed recorded in Book 4909, page 484, Cumberland County, NC, Public Registry. Parcel ID: 9592-41-6147 Property address: 1150 W. Manchester Road, Spring Lake, NC PARCEL 21: State of North Carolina County of Cumberland Manchester Township BEGINNING at an iron stake, same point being further described as: along lines of Col. Robert G. Franks and W. D. Vreeland from the right of way of Franks Road (State Road No. 1451) North 11 degrees 54 minutes West 63.70 feet; thence South 76 degrees 59 minutes West 30 feet; thence North 10 degrees 08 minutes West 94.98 feet; thence North 9 degrees 35 minutes West 424.00 feet to an iron pipe, Frank’s and Vreeland’s corner; thence North 10 degrees 17 minutes West 72.11 feet to a new corner on Frank’s line, the aforesaid beginning point; thence with Frank’s and Vreeland’s line North 10 degrees 17 minutes West 200.57 feet to an iron pipe; thence North 7 degrees 12minutes East 593.50 feet to an iron pipe on the edge of Lower Little River; thence along the edge of Lower Little River North 25 degrees 06 minutes East 148.51 feet to an iron pipe; thence a new line across W. D. Vreeland’s property described in Book 402, Page 179, Cumberland County Registry of which this is a part South 44 degrees 18 minutes East 69.47 feet to an iron pipe; thence another new line South 7 degrees 12 minutes West 676.29 feet to an iron pipe; thence another new line South 10 degrees 17 minutes East 185.10 feet to an iron pipe; thence another new line South 79 degrees 43 minutes West 100.00 feet to the point of beginning, containing 2.01 acres more or less. This is a part of the land conveyed to William D. Vreeland as shown in Book 402, Page 179, Cumberland County Registry. And being all of the property conveyed by the Deed to William O. Pike and wife, Olivia S. Pike, recorded in Book 2206, Page 15, Cumberland County, NC, Public Registry, and the Tract 2 property conveyed by the Deed to Olivia S. Pike, recorded in Book 2852, Page 783, Cumberland County, NC, Public Registry Parcel ID: 9592-53-5126 Property address: 1751 Huckleberry Drive, Spring Lake, NC PARCEL 22: State of North Carolina County of Cumberland Manchester Township BEGINNING at an iron stake in the Northern right-of-way of Franks Road, said iron stake being 30 feet from the centerline of said Road, said iron also being the Southwest corner of the original tract of which this is a part, and runs thence as the Western line of the original tract, North 09 degrees 35 minutes East 136.10 feet to an iron stake; thence continuing as the old line, North 77 degrees 43 minutes East 76.00 feet to an iron stake; thence as the old line, North 08 degrees 20 minutes West 1545.69 feet to an iron stake on the South side of Lower Little River and in the mouth of a ditch; thence North 76 degrees 54 minutes East 65.62 feet to an iron on the South side of the river; thence continuing with the Eastern side of Lower River, North 34 degrees 54 minutes East 143.00 feet to an iron stake; thence South 08 degrees 07 minutes 01 seconds East 884.64 feet to an iron stake; thence South 81 degrees 40 minutes West 140.00 feet to a point; thence parallel with the Western line of the original tract, South 08 degrees 20 minutes East 789.35 feet; thence South 77 degrees 43 minutes West 81.14 feet; thence South 09 degrees 35 minutes West 112.72 feet to a point in the Northern right-of-way of the Franks Road; thence with the Northern right-ofway of Franks Road, South 73 degrees 20 minutes West 22.30 feet to the POINT OF BEGINNING. Containing 3.45 acres and being a part of the property described in

B7

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

TAKE NOTICE deed recorded in Book 2739, Page 245, Cumberland County Registry. This conveyance is made subject to a 10 foot easement along Franks Road for the further highway development, said easement to be dedicated by the recording of a map by Grantor. Parcel ID: 9592-53-8475 Property address: N/A PARCEL 23: State of North Carolina County of Cumberland Manchester Township BEGINNING at a stake in the margin of an unpaved road approximately 500 feet West of the sewage disposal plant at Fort Bragg, North Carolina; said stake being further described as South 69 degrees 15 minutes West 301 feet from the U. S. Public Land Survey Monument in the Northeast corner of Col. Williams’ property, and running North 21 degrees 31 minutes West 1550.3 feet to a stake; thence South 7 degrees 15 minutes West 842.feet to a stake; thence South 17 degrees East 378 feet to a stake; thence South 12 degrees 30 minutes East 424 feet to a stake in the Easterly margin of the aforementioned unpaved road; thence N. 69 degrees 15 minutes East 306 feet to the point of the Beginning and the parcel containing 8.134 acres, more or less, according to an actual survey made in March, 1951, by Watkins and Vogel, C.E. And being a portion of the lands conveyed to Dudley Deyton and wife, Margaret Deyton by deed dated April 25, 1950 and recorded in Book 555, at page 189, Cumberland County Registry. And being the same property conveyed by Dudley Deyton and wife, Margaret B. Deyton to James B. Roberts and wife,

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 PM on August 24, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following

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 estate situated in Lexington in the County of

DURHAM 26SP000651-310 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DURHAM COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Michael H Davis and David H Cribben Jr to Jovetta Woodard and Patricia Robinson, Trustee(s), which was dated August 19, 2019 and recorded on August 23, 2019 in Book 8733 at Page 653, Durham County Registry, North Carolina.

PARCELS 24 & 25: State of North Carolina County of Cumberland Manchester Township Tract One: BEGINNING at an iron pipe on the Eastern bank of what is known as “The Dry Ditch” with mulberry tree pointers, Capt. W. McB. Garrison’s corner and is also the South West corner of the tract of land of which this is a part and running thence with Garrison’s line North 69 degrees and 15 minutes East 210 feet to an iron pipe; thence North 12 degrees and 30 minutes West 424 feet to an iron pipe in the edge of a branch with bay and sycamore tree pointers; thence North 17 degrees West 278 feet to an iron pipe with pine pointers; thence North 7 degrees and 15 minutes East 842 feet to a stake in an old ditch with pine pointers, the line of the lands of the O.A. Waddell Estate; thence with the line of said lands North 41 degrees West 66 feet to the mouth of the ditch; at the South East margin of Lower Little River; thence up the said margin of said river South 26 degrees and 30 minutes West 415 feet to an iron pipe with pine and juniper tree pointers Capt. Garrison’s corner or in his line; thence with his line South 7 degrees and 15 minutes West 594 feet to an iron pipe on the East Bank of an old ditch with oak and gum pointers, his corner; thence with his line South 17 degrees East 278 feet to a gum stump with gum pointers, his corner; thence with his other line South 12 degrees and 30 minutes East 424 feet to the beginning,

plant at Fort Bragg, N.C., and being a part of a tract of land conveyed from Louise Dunn Wyche, et al to said Grantors dated June 10, 1952 and recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds for Cumberland County, North Carolina. And being all of that property conveyed by Robert G. Franks and wife, Martha Franks to Walling D. Vreeland and wife, Dorothy H. Vreeland in deed recorded in Book 641 page 321, Cumberland County Registry. Parcel ID: 9592-52-7202 Property address: N/A

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 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 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. BY: /S/ AnnMarie Taylor____

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.

pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

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 unto Wayne Theo Easter.

or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on September 3, 2026 at 11:30 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Durham County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING ALL OF LOT 95 OF TAYLOR ESTATES SUBDIVISION, PHASE I, AS SHOWN ON A PLAT RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 158, PAGES 105 AND 107, DURHAM COUNTY REGISTRY. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 4006 Taylor Ridge Drive, Durham, NC 27703.

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,

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

26SP000022-310

following described property situated in Durham County, North Carolina, to wit:

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DURHAM COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Gregorios Kalaitzidis to World Wide Land Transfer, Trustee(s), which was dated March 20, 2024 and recorded on March 25, 2024 in Book 10073 at Page 284, Durham 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 September 3, 2026 at 11:30 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the

453; Book 1113 page 467; Book 1113 page 641; Book 1160 page 185; Book 1181 page 508; Book 2032 page 53; Book 2089 page 498; Book 2133 page 101; Book 2168 page 533; Book 2522 page 676; Book 3442 page 805 and Book 7888 page 638; and All portions of the said tract consisting of 379 acres +/- lying to the east of State Road 1403 (Reilly Road, formerly known as Blackjack Road) and north of Morganton Road, including such tract consisting of 32.357 acres +/- as shown on the plat map of the MacIlwinen Property recorded in Plat Book 32, Page 29, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Public Registry. See Cumberland County tax parcel identification number 9498-28-2374. Property address: Formerly 7731 Fletcher Avenue, Fayetteville, NC 28303 The property is being sold “as is”, without warranties, subject to all taxes, special assessments and prior liens or encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Any assessments, costs or fees resulting from the sale will be due and payable from the purchaser at the sale. A deposit of certified funds (no personal check) in the amount of five percent (5%) of the high bid will be required at the time of the sale. The sale will be held open for ten days for upset bids as required by law. This the ____ day of August, 2026. BY: J.W. Childs Substitute Trustee Services, Inc., Commissioner Printed Name: J.W. Childs

containing 6.70 acres. Surveyed from true meridian bearing magnetic bearings being 3 degrees and 5 minutes West on January 28, 1939, the date of said survey. And being all of that property conveyed by Daniel A. Monroe and wife, Catherine Monroe to Walling D. Vreeland and wife, Dorothy H. Vreeland in deed recorded in Book 402, Page 179, Cumberland County Registry. LESS AND EXPECTING all of that property consisting of 2.01 acres, more or less, conveyed by Walling D. Vreeland and wife, Dorothy H. Vreeland to William O. Pike and wife, Olivia S. Pike recorded in Book 2206 page 15, Cumberland County Registry. Parcel ID: 9592-52-6930 Property address: N/A Tract Two: Located on the North of an old dirt road known as the Old Manchester Road, said road running approximately East and West and said property lying to the South of adjoining property now belonging to Walling D. Vreeland, and BEGINNING at an iron pipe on the Easterly side of a Mulberry tree, and also the Southwest corner of W. D. Vreeland tract of land and Col. R. G. Franks, formerly known as the Capt. W. McB. Garrison’s corner; and running thence with the Vreeland line North 69 degrees 15 minutes East 210.0 feet to an iron pipe; thence South 12 degrees 30 minutes East 113.0 fee to an iron pipe in the margin of the Old Manchester Road, and with the said road South 74 degrees 04 minutes West 208.5 feet to an iron pipe in the margin of forementioned road; thence North 12 degrees 30 minutes West 96.15 feet to the beginning, containing .48 of an acre. This parcel of land is approximately 1,500.00 feet in a Southwestly direction from the disposal

Phyllis V. Roberts by deed recorded in Book 586, Page 170, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Public Registry. Parcel ID: 9592-52-8819 Property address: N/A

All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in the City of Durham, Durham County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 576 of Brightleaf at the Park - Tract 13, Ph. 2 as shown on Plat prepared by Priest, Craven & Associates, Inc., dated March 2006 and recorded May 22, 2006 in Plat Book 172, Pages 196, 199 and 202, Durham County Registry. Reference is hereby made to Plat Book 172, Pages 130, 133, 136 and 139, Durham County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 2820 Prospect Pkwy, Durham, NC 27703. 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

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

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 Michael H. Davis. 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

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 Gregorios Kalaitzidis. 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

PARCEL 26: STATE, OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND BEING all of that tract of land consisting of 379 acres, more or less, of McIlwinen land allocated to John H. McIlwinen, (III), Annie McIlwinen and William Lee McIlwinen by Commissioners in a Special Proceeding as shown in Book of Orders and Decrees #M, at pages 195 through 199, of the Cumberland County, North Carolina Registry, reference to which division is hereby made for the purpose of incorporating the description therein as if fully set forth herein. LESS AND EXPECTING the following property: A tract of property consisting of 5 acres +/-, bearing tax parcel identification number 9498-67-5181 as described in the Deed recorded in Book 4259, Page 841, Cumberland County, North Carolina, Public Registry; All tracts of property conveyed by instruments recorded in Book 675 page 599, Book 753 page 363; Book 936 page 366; Book 977 page 77; Book 1007 page 142; Book 1032 page 98; Book 1056 page 137; Book 1099 page 77; Book 1113 page

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

Title: Asst. Vice-President 201 S. McPherson Church Road, Ste. 201 Fayetteville, NC 28303-4995 FV# 13616550

AnnMarie Taylor Attorney for Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. Hutchens Law Firm

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

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.: 26-17654-FC01

sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988

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

If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing.

File No.: 25-36287-FC01

B8

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

DURHAM 25SP000785-310 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DURHAM COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by ANDREW POTTER AND KELLY POTTER to Tryon Title Agency,, Trustee(s), which was dated September 1, 2023 and recorded on September 1, 2023 in Book 9979 at Page 324, Durham 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 September 3, 2026 at 11:30 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DURHAM COUNTY 25 SP 000286-310 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Reaton Homes, LLC, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $906,500.00, to Silver Hill Funding, LLC, Mortgagee, dated February 27th, 2023 and recorded on February 28th, 2023 in Book 9870, Page 247, 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 offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Durham County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on September 3rd, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Beginning at an iron found in the property line on the East side of the East part of

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DURHAM COUNTY 26 SP 000572-310 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Charles J. Dillingham, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $90,400.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”) as beneficiary, as nominee for Suntrust Mortgage, Inc. its successors and assigns, Mortgagee, dated August 28th, 2007 and recorded on August 28th, 2007 in Book 5727, Page 81, 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

FORSYTH 25SP001718-330 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, FORSYTH COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Tonya L. Hairston to Laurel A. Meyer, Trustee(s), which was dated July 19, 2013 and recorded on July 19, 2013 in Book 3135 at Page 3565 and rerecorded/ modified/corrected on October 10, 2025 in Book 3889, Page 2976, Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will 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 September 3, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the

25SP002013-330 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, FORSYTH COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Thomas P. Bradshaw, Jr and Eleanore M. Bradshaw a/k/a Eleanore Bradshaw to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), which was dated December 23, 2015 and recorded on December 29, 2015 in Book RE 3265 at Page 2394 and rerecorded/ modified/corrected on December 29, 2015 in Book RE 3265, Page 2618, Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will 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 September 3, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and

following described property situated in Durham County, North Carolina, to wit:

Said property is commonly known as 111 Dunstan Ave, Durham, NC 27707.

owner(s) of the property is/are Andrew Potter and Kelly Potter.

BEGINNING at a stake on the northern side of Dunston Avenue at the southwest corner of lot #3 Block D, as shown on the plat hereinafter referred to, said beginning point being 349.8 feet in a westerly direction from the west side of Concord Street (formerly Spaulding Avenue) and also 368.6 feet in an easterly direction from the east side of Pine Street, and running thence with the western line of lot #3 north 29° 35’ east 167.4 feet to a stake; thence north 60° 25’ west 50 feet to a stake; thence south 29° 35’ west 167.4 feet to a stake on the northern side of Dunston Avenue; thence along and with the northern side of Dunston Avenue south 60° 25’ east 50 feet to the point of beginning and being all of lot #2 and the eastern 5 feet of Lot #1 in Block D at the DunstonMincey-Roberson Land of Merrick-Moore, Spaulding Co. recorded in Plat Book 5, pages 13 and 46, Durham County Registry, to which reference is hereby made for a more particular description. See Will Book 6, page 38 and Deed Book 51, page 528. See also Deed Book 189, page 51, Durham County Registry.

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.

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

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

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.: 25-22102-FC01

Beverly Drive, such point of beginning being the Northwest corner of Tract 2, now or formerly owned by Paul Homeyer and wife, per survey entitled “Property of D.H.E. Diccoson and Paul G. Homeyer (as described in Tract 4 per deed recorded in Book 1308, Page 96, Durham County Registry); and running thence South 65 degrees 12` 00” East a distance of 439.23 feet to an iron found in the West right-ofway line of Norfolk and Southern Railroad Company; thence with the West right-ofway line of Norfolk and Southern Railroad Company North 3 degrees 18` 49” East a distance of 179.11 feet to an iron found; thence North 65 degrees 20` 32” West a distance of 339.41 feet to an iron found in the property line on the East side of the East part of Beverly Drive; thence with the property line on the East side of the of the East part of Beverly Drive as the same extends in a Southwesterly direction along a counterclockwise arc with a radius of 494.30 feet, a distance of 170.15 feet to the point and place of beginning, and being the real property shown on survey entitled “John J. Zenner, III and Illana D. Callow”, prepared by William Jerry Antry, R.L.S., dated June 6, 1995, to which survey reference is hereby made for a more particular description of same. Being the same real property conveyed to Jean-Francois Richard and wife in Deed Book 1308, Page 96, Durham

County Registry, less that portion of same conveyed in Book 1887, Page 298, Durham County Registry. See Plat Book 61, Pages 27 and 28, Durham County Registry; But see Plat Book 56, Page 69, Durham County Registry. See also Deed Book 356, Page 528, and Deed Book 402, Page 312, Durham County, North Carolina Registry. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 72 Beverly Drive, Durham, NC 27707 Tax ID: 115722 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 Reaton Homes, LLC. 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.

foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Durham County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on September 1st, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Being all of Lot No. 3 Investment Corporation of Durham, Inc., as per Plat and Survey thereof on file in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Durham County in Plat Book 30, at page 75, to which Plat reference is hereby made for a more particular description of same. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 215 W Rockway St, Durham, NC 27704 Tax ID: 128501 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 Charles Dillingham. 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.

following described property situated in Forsyth County, North Carolina, to wit:

HEREIN BY REFERENCE.

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 Tonya L. Hairston.

BEING KNOWN AND DESIGNATED AS LOT NO. 130 ON A PLAT ENTITLED “CHARLESTOWNE, SECTION 3” RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 26, PAGE 59, IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF FORSYTH COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA. TOGETHER WITH ALL RIGHTS AND EASEMENTS APPURTENANT TO SAID LOT AS SPECIFICALLY ENUMERATED IN THE DECLARATION OF COVENANTS, CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS ISSUED BY CHARLESTOWNE, A PARTNESRSHIP, AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1139, PAGE 337, FURTHER SUPPLEMENTED BY DECLARATION OF COVENANTS, CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS ISSUED BY CHARLESTOWNE, A PARTNERSHIP, AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1178, PAGE 610, IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF FORSYTH COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA; AND MEMBERSHIP IN CHARLESTOWNE HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC; AND SUBJECT TO THE REGULAR MONTHLY ASSESSMENTS AND SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS, LIMITATIONS AND RULES RESERVED IN SAID DECLARATION OF COVENANTS, CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS. THE DECLARATION OF COVENANTS, CONDITIONS AND RESTRICTIONS IS INCORPORATED

will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Forsyth County, North Carolina, to wit: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in Forsyth County, North Carolina, and more particularly described as follows: Being known and designated as Lot 9 of Lakecrest Estates, a map and plat of which is recorded in Plat Book 22, Page 119 in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County, North Carolina, reference to which map is hereby made for a more particular description. Parcel No. 6886-49-8671.00 Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 500 Lakecrest Dr, Kernersville, NC 27284. 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

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 130 Charlestowne Circle, Winston Salem, NC 27103. 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,

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 Craig A. Costakis. 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

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

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”.

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

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 24-001560-01

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 24-000736-03

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.: 25-25726-FC01

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.: 25-34473-FC01

B9

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

FORSYTH 25SP001829-330 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, FORSYTH COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Carol J Wood and Kenneth R Smith to Peter F. Makowiecki, Trustee(s), which was dated May 1, 2007 and recorded on May 11, 2007 in Book RE 2751 at Page 4458, Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 25SP001954-330 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by SUZANNE I. BRANCH, dated February 15, 2022 in the amount of $322,913.00 and recorded in Book 3676, Page 850 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 3898, Page 248, 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 September 1, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder

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 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 26SP000299-330 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Alejandra Montalvo Gonzalez and Reynaldo Calleja-Maya (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Alejandra Montalvo Gonzalez and Reynaldo Calleja-Maya) to Joseph P Clark, Trustee(s), dated August 14, 2017, and recorded in Book No. RE 3364, at Page 1693 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:15 PM on September 2, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following

IREDELL 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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP001532-480 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Htike H. Tun (Deceased) and Glenn Ott (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Htike H. Tun and Glenn Ott) to Thomas & Webber, PLLC, Trustee(s), dated September 6, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 3014, at Page 1673 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 September 3, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real

county courthouse for conducting the sale on September 3, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Forsyth County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING KNOWN AND DESIGNATED AS LOT 43 OF SMOKERISE, SECTION TWO, A MAP AND PLAT OF WHICH IS RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 27 AT PAGE 70 IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF FORSYTH COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, REFERENCE TO WHICH MAP IS HEREBY MADE FOR A MORE PARTICULAR DESCRIPTION. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 1480 CHIMNEY ROCK DRIVE, Kernersville, NC 27284. 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 Kenneth R. Smith and All Lawful Heirs of Carol J. Wood.

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”.

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

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

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

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): 6882-77-2599 ADDRESS: 107 CENTERPIECE DR, HIGH POINT, NC 27265 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): SUZANNE I. BRANCH THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF FORSYTH, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 3676, PAGE 850, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 161 IN PHASE 1 AS SHOWN ON A PLAT FOR RICH FORK HEIGHTS SUBDIVISION RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 74, PAGE 82, FORSYTH COUNTY REGISTRY. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS,

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

of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of

the termination. THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection. IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY.

of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Forsyth County courthouse at 11:00AM on August 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 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 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:

real estate situated in Winston Salem in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain lot, parcel of land or condominium unit situated in the City of Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot Number 6, Block 22, as shown on the map entitled Bon Air Property made by J. E. Ellerbe, C.E. and recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Forsyth County in Plat Book 3, Page 25. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 2821 North Patterson Avenue, Winston Salem, North Carolina.

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 releases. Said property is also

courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale 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

estate situated in Statesville in the County of Iredell, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lots 16 and 18 of West Ridge, Phase II, according to a map prepared by Kestler Surveying Inc., recorded in Plat Book 23, Pages 41-41A, Iredell County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 141 Westridge Drive, Statesville, North Carolina.

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.

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.

The above-described property is conveyed subject to Restrictions recorded in Book 868, Page 1604 and Amendment to Restrictions recorded in Book 921, Page 1094, of the Iredell County Registry. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320

File No.: 25-10091-FC01

Sarah A. Waldron or Terrass Scott Misher, Esq ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorneys for the Substitute Trustee 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Telephone: (470) 321-7112

16-085065

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: 22006 - 159636

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: 28866 - 147708

B10

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

IREDELL 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

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

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 sale in Johnston County, North Carolina, at

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 26SP000273-500 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by CHERYL L. STEPHENS dated December 17, 2020 in the amount of $115,000.00 and recorded in Book 5791 at Page 681 in the Johnston 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 Johnston County, North Carolina, in Book 7090, Page 178, 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 Johnston County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on September 1, 2026 at 2:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Johnston, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows:

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

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 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.

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 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

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.

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.

PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 06-G-06-021-Q ADDRESS: 1113 BENNENT DR CLAYTON, NC 27520 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): CHERYL L. STEPHENS THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF JOHNSTON, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 5791, PAGE 681, AS FOLLOWS: THE FOLLOWING PROPERTY SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF JOHNSTON, STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, AND DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 138, SOUTH PLANTATION SUBDIVISION, SECTION VIII, PHASE II, AS DEPICTED IN PLAT BOOK 40, PAGE 197, JOHNSTON COUNTY REGISTRY. BEING THE SAME PREMISES CONVEYED UNTO CONNIE ANN MERCER AND CHERYL L. STEPHENS, BY VIRTUE OF GENERAL WARRANTY DEED FROM LONNIE JONES AND BETTY JONES, DATED NOVEMBER 18, 1994, RECORDED NOVEMBER 21, 1994, IN BOOK: 1412 AND PAGE: 735; INSTRUMENT: 21033. BEING THE SAME PREMISES CONVEYED UNTO CHERYL L. STEPHENS, UNMARRIED, BY VIRTUE OF QUIT CLAIM DEED FROM CONNIE ANN MERCER, UNMARRIED AND CHERYL L. STEPHENS, UNMARRIED, DATED APRIL 13, 2018, RECORDED APRIL 16, 2018, IN BOOK: 5133 AND PAGE: 889;

INSTRUMENT: 2018567416.6 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.

25, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Wilmington in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: 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 However, by showing this address no additional coverage is provided 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.

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

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 25-003320-01

Sarah A. Waldron or Terrass Scott Misher, Esq ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorneys for the Substitute Trustee 13010 Morris Rd., Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Telephone: (470) 321-7112

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o 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

B11

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 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,

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

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA ROBESON COUNTY OF

SERVICE

OF

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

PROCESS

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

UNION AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, UNION COUNTY 26 SP 000162-890 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Jon E. White and Kristine N. White, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $30,000.00, to Coastal Federal Credit Union, Mortgagee, dated June 30th, 2017 and recorded on July 10th, 2017 in Book 06970, Page 0040, Union County Registry. Default having been made in the payment of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Union County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will

WAKE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP001050-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Lianbo Li and Yingmei Guo (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Lianbo Li and Yingmei Guo) to Hutchens Law Firm LLP Attn: Compliance Team, Trustee(s), dated June 28, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 019371, at Page 01610 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

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.

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”.

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

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

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement

purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded

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

SOUTHWEST STAGE FUNDING, LLC DBA CASCADE FINANCIAL SERVICES, Plaintiff v.

JORGE L HILERIO, Defendant TAKE NOTICE that a pleading seeking 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.

deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the 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 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 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

offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Union County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on September 1, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: All of that certain lot or parcel of land situated in the Town of Waxhaw, Union County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 1369 on “Final Plat of a Portion of Millbridge Phase 2E and 4A Map 1” recorded in Plat Cabinet M, Files 984986, Union County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. Subject to restrictions, reservations, easements, covenants, oil, gas or mineral rights of record, if any. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 4013 Millbridge Parkway, Waxhaw, NC 28173 Tax ID: 05165251 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 Jon E. White and Kristine N. White. 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.

Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on August 31, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in New Hill in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 100, Belterra Subdivision, Phase 2, as shown on map recorded in Book of Maps 2022, Pages 52-56, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3336 Brevet Street, New Hill, North Carolina. Property Address: 3336 Brevet Street, New Hill, NC 27562

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.

County, North Carolina, or the customary 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. 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

BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA ROBESON COUNTY

ROBESON

NOTICE

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:

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26CV000951770

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

File No.: 25-34075-FC01

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: 31681 - 165605

This, the 5th day of August, 2026. 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

25-121056

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 25-004404-01

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: 31883 - 166867

B12

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

WAKE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000744-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Capital Match, LLC (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Capital Match, LLC) to Temple View Capital Funding, LP, Trustee(s), dated September 20, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 019439, at Page 00486 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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP001000-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by John Michael Nolte (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): John Michael Nolte) to Hunter Holcombe, Trustee(s), dated September 6, 2024, and recorded in Book No. 019704, at Page 01797 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 31, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP001289-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Kierra D. Wright (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Kierra D. Wright) to Becton Law Firm, P.C., Trustee(s), dated June 17, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 019062, at Page 00868 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 31, 2026 and will sell

25SP001864-910 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 Jacqueline D Washington to WILLIAM R ECHOLS, Trustee(s), which was dated January 21, 2005 and recorded on January 26, 2005 in Book 11197 at Page 1666, 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 September 2, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and

26SP000755-910 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 Carolyn L. MacRae to Jonathan Bach, Trustee(s), which was dated September 30, 2010 and recorded on October 5, 2010 in Book 14101 at Page 1536, 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 September 2, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in

18SP000458-910 AMENDED 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 Terry L. White to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), which was dated May 19, 2011 and recorded on May 20, 2011 in Book 14354 at Page 262, 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

County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on August 31, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fuquay Varina in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lots 215 and 216 of Lincoln Heights Subdivision, according to plat by Richard H. Moore, Engineer, recorded in Book of Maps 1945, Page 79, Wake County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for greater certainty of description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 498 Longfellow Street, Fuquay Varina, North Carolina. Parcel ID: 0067813 Tax/Map ID: 0657609402 Property Address: 498 Longfellow St, Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 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

estate situated in Zebulon in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Lying and being in the City of Zebulon, Little River Township, Wake County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: All of Lot 234, Pearces Landing, Phase 1C Section 1, as shown on the map recorded in Book of Maps 2023, Pages 1609-1615, Wake County Registry, to which map reference is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 416 Emerald Shire Way, Zebulon, North Carolina. Property Address: 416 Emerald Shire Way, Zebulon, NC 27597 PIN/PARCEL NO.: 0509532 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).

to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Raleigh in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 10 Silver Lake Bluffs Phase I as shown in Book of Maps 2010, Pages 847-853; and Book of Maps 2010, Pages 1065-1067, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 2423 Memory Ridge Drive, Raleigh, 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

will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Wake County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING all of Lot 101, Phase 2 of Waterford Landing Subdivision as shown on plat recorded in Book of Maps 1993, Page 1067 of the Wake County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 5333 Peacenest Drive, Raleigh, NC 27610. 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

Wake County, North Carolina, to wit: All that certain lot or parcel of land situate in the City of Raleigh, House Creek Township, Wake County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 31, Copper Ridge Townhomes, as shown on plat thereof recorded in Book of Maps 2006, Page 1627, Wake County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 5035 Isabella Cannon Dr, Raleigh, NC 27612. 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.

on September 2, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Wake County, North Carolina, to wit: Being all of Lot 5, Block L, Schoolacres Subdivision, Section 1 Extended, as shown on map recorded in Book of Maps 1950, Page 112 and re-recorded in Book of Maps 1952, Page 68, Wake County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 703 Powell Drive, Garner, NC 27529. 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.

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.

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.

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 Jacqueline D Washington.

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.

the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may,

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

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 Carolyn MacRae. 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

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”.

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

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 Terry L. White.

or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement

Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”.

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: 31224 - 162674

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: 31052 - 161550

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: 30805 - 160025

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.: 25-22140-FC01

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.: 26-07668-FC01

of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, 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.: 13-05102-FC02

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

B13

TAKE NOTICE

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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, WAKE COUNTY 26 SP 000771-910 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by SCIG Fund I, LLC, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $585,200.00, to RFLF 4, LLC, Mortgagee, dated June 6th, 2025 and recorded on June 20th, 2025 in Book 019936, Page 02230, 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, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in 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, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed,

NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF WAKE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 25CV040157-910 MidFirst Bank, Plaintiff, v. Your Paradise, LLC; Secretary of Housing and Urban Development; North Carolina Housing Finance Agency

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 24SP001805-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust executed by STEVE L SABO AND MARNIE C KNIGHT payable to COUNTRYWIDE KB HOME LOANS, A COUNTRYWIDE MORTGAGE VENTURES, LLC SERIES, Lender, to TRUSTEE SERVICES OF CAROLINA, LLC, Trustee, dated February 22, 2007, and recorded in Book 012414, Page 00715 of the Wake 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 Wake County, North Carolina, in Book 019855, Page 01164, 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 Wake County, North Carolina, or

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.

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 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.

County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on September 1st, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: The following described real estate: Situated in the Township of Leesville, County of Wake and State of North Carolina: Being all of Lot 148 according to plat entitled “Springdale Estates, Section 2, Map 10, Leesville Township, Wake County, North Carolina,” dated July 1975, prepared by Castleberry-Edgerton Co., Consulting Engineers and recorded in Book of Maps 1975, Page 192, Volume 2 Wake County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 8700 Cliff Top Court, Raleigh, NC 27613 Tax ID: 0093997 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 SCIG Fund I LLC. 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 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.

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.

Defendant(s).

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.

highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid.

NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the Order for Judicial Sale, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake County courthouse at 10:00 AM on September 2, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Nashima Evette Gillespie, dated July 10, 2009 to secure the original principal amount of $152,683.00, and recorded in Book No. 13621, at Page 343 of the Wake County Public Registry. The terms of the

the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on September 2, 2026 at 12:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 0649976750 ADDRESS: 200 STEEDMONT DR HOLLY SPRINGS, NC 27540 THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF WAKE, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 012414, PAGE 00715, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 1, WINDCREST SUBDIVISION, PHASE 6, SECTION 1, AS SHOWN ON MAP RECORDED IN BOOK OF MAPS 2003, PAGE 1572, WAKE COUNTY REGISTRY. PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): STEVE L SABO, MARNIE C KNIGHT 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).

Address of property: Arboles Court, Raleigh, NC 27613 Tax Parcel ID: 0319156

8518

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 26-000228-01

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

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 20th day of July, 2026. Grady I. Ingle, NC State Bar No. 16692 Attorney for Comissioner, Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717

agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection. IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY. Sarah A. Waldron or Terrass Scott Misher, Esq. ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorneys for the Substitute Trustee 13010 Morris Road, Suite 450 Alpharetta, GA 30004 Telephone: (470) 321-7112

B14

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

WAKE 25CV034084-910 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in a judgment bearing the caption “Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC Plaintiff, v. Roslyn Jordan; Alejandro Guzman; Secretary of Housing and Urban Development; Planters Walk of Knightdale

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000409-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Wenzhen Yang (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Wenzhen Yang) to Lennar Title, LLC, Trustee(s), dated July 8, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 019084, at Page 00539 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 31, 2026 and will sell

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24SP001265-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Raheem Oluwayomi Lamidi (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Raheem Oluwayomi Lamidi) to Coastal Federal Financial Group, LLC, Trustee(s), dated May 11, 2020, and recorded in Book No. 017862, at Page 02161 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 31, 2026 and will sell

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

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

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24SP000102-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Maria G. Velasco and Richard W. Grishaw (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Maria G. Velasco and Richard W. Grishaw) to Lynde Seldon, Trustee(s), dated January 22, 2015, and recorded in Book No. 015898, at Page 02335 in Wake County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on May 14, 2021, in Book No. 018503, at Page 00699 , 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 31, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Raleigh in the County

Community Association, Inc.; and Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. Substitute Trustee; Defendants” 25CV034084910 Wake County and pursuant to the terms of the judgment, the undersigned Commissioner will offer for sale that certain property as described below. Said sale will be held in the City of Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina at 1:30 p.m. on August 31, 2026 at the Wake County Courthouse door and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more

particularly described as follows: LYING AND BEING IN WAKE COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, AND MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 82, SECTION 3, PART A, WILLOW RIDGE AT PLANTERS WALK SUBDIVISION, AS DEPICTED IN MAP BOOK 1994, PAGE 1011.

to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fuquay Varina in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 236, Geneva Subdivision, Phase 11, as shown on plat recorded in Book of Maps 2022, Pages 7-11, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 4305 Olde Waverly Way, Fuquay Varina, North Carolina. Property Address: 4305 Olde Waverly Way, Fuquay Varina, NC 27526

The property is being sold “as is”, without warranties, subject to all taxes, special assessments and prior liens or encumbrances of record and any recorded

releases. Any assessments, costs or fees resulting from the sale will be due and payable from the purchaser at the sale. A deposit of certified funds (no personal check) in the amount of five percent (5%) of the high bid will be required at the time of the sale. The sale will be held open for ten days for upset bids as required by law.

BY: J.W. Childs Substitute Trustee Services, Commissioner Printed Name: J.W. Childs

Inc.,

Title: Asst. Vice-President 201 S. McPherson Church Road, Ste. 201 Fayetteville, NC 28303-4995

This the 7th day of August, 2026.

FV# 13592808

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.

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.

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

property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by

N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior

authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the 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. Address of property: 1001

Penncross Dr, Raleigh, NC 27610 Tax Parcel ID: 1734512914 Present Record Owners: The Estate of Lori Janine Little 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.

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 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

of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING at an existing iron pipe in the southern right of way line of SR 2724 same being the northeast corner of the Property of Robert Allan Alexander (now or formerly) as described in Deed recorded in Book 2730, Page 836, Wake County Registry, and running thence as the southern right of way line of SR 2724, South 83 degrees 05 minutes East 207.15 feet to an existing iron pipe in said southern right of way line, a corner with Robert C. Creel (now or formerly) as described in Deed recorded in Book 2353, Page 698, Wake County Registry, and running thence with the line of Creel, South 38 degrees 33 minutes West 394.6 feet to an existing iron pipe in the line of Mary Patsy Cave (now or formerly) land as described in Deed recorded in Book 2733, page 60, Wake County Registry, also a corner with Robert Allan Alexander (nor or formerly) thence with said Alexander’s eastern line North 06 degrees 53 minutes East 336.0 feet to the point of BEGINNING and containing 0.799 acres according to a survey entitled “Property of Jeffrey L Johnson and Marcia R Layden, Panther Branch Township, Wake County, North Carolina,” dated 12/13/82 and prepared by Land Surveyors, Apex, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 2613 Banks road, Raleigh, North Carolina.

Parcel ID: 0120681 Property Address: 2613 Banks Road, Raleigh, NC 27603

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.

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 highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Garner in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 109, Clifford Grove Subdivision, Phase 2A, per plat and survey thereof recorded in Book of Maps 2019, Pages 36 through 39, inclusive, Wake County Registry, to which plat reference is hereby made for a more particular description of same. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 255 Axis Deer Lane, Garner, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported

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.

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

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: 24783 - 153535

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: 20394 - 97842

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

23-115642

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: 1273926 - 84642

VOLUME 149 ISSUE 26 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

CHATHAMNEWSRECORD.COM

THE CHATHAM COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Swat team Orange quarterback Jackson Moody (1) tries to get off a pass over the outstretched hands of the Northwood defensive line. Northwood hosted the Jack Shaner Football Jamboree, giving fans their first look at the Chargers and other area teams before the season starts Friday.

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

the

BRIEF this week

U.S. school vaccination rates inch down yet again, exemptions reach record high U.S. kindergarten vaccination rates have declined again, with exemptions reaching a record high. Federal data released Monday shows 4.2% of children are exempted from vaccine requirements, up from 3.6% the previous year. It marks the fourth consecutive year of rising exemption rates, mostly due to nonmedical reasons. Experts blame confusion in vaccination recommendations. The CDC reported a slight drop in measles-mumps-rubella shots, and that vaccination rates for polio and other diseases also are falling. The U.S. is experiencing its worst measles year since 1991. Some state health officials are urging parents to vaccinate their children as schools can be hot spots for outbreaks.

ABC sues FCC over challenge to broadcast licenses ABC has filed a lawsuit against the FCC, alleging violation of its First Amendment rights. Tuesday’s lawsuit was a sharp escalation of the network’s battle against what it sees as the administration’s efforts to police its content. FCC Chair Brendan Carr has defended his agency’s actions, saying broadcasters have a duty to “operate in the public interest.” The FCC launched a review of eight ABC local broadcast licenses well before they expire. The order came after a joke by ABC host Jimmy Kimmel infuriated President Donald Trump.

$2.00

Pittsboro approves commercial rezoning for Powell Place property The property is a brownfield site that is currently being reviewed by DEQ By Ryan Henkel Chatham News & Record PITTSBORO — The Town of Pittsboro Board of Commissioners met Aug. 10 for its regular business meeting.

The board held a public hearing for a general use rezoning request for about six acres of property located off Highway 15-501 to go from heavy industrial to highway commercial. The property, which is cur-

rently vacant and has been for nearly two decades, is considered a brownfield site due to previously having been used as an industrial manufacturing facility. According to the applicant, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality is currently reviewing their request for usability.

Due to that being outstanding, the applicants don’t have a concrete plan of what they’re going to be allowed to do with the property, hence the general use rezoning request, but it will be a commercial use with no residential. The property is also intended See REZONING, page A7

Prosectors: ‘No serious dispute’ that Comey’s seashell post could be read as Trump threat The post preceded Comey’s novel release about a far-right social media personality By Eric Tucker The Associated Press WASHINGTON — The Justice Department is defending its prosecution of former FBI

Director James Comey, saying “there is no serious dispute” that a social media post of seashells he made last year could be understood as a threat against President Donald Trump.

Prosecutors also called into question Comey’s account that he had found the seashells in the numerical arrangement of “86 47” while walking on a beach in North Carolina and suggested that his May 2025 post on Instagram was a thinly veiled attempt to sell copies of a forthcoming novel about a social me-

Georgia man charged with burglarizing NASCAR driver Biffle’s home after plane crash The suspect used social media posts to determine when families were away from home The Associated Press STATESVILLE — A Georgia man burglarized former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle’s home after learning Biffle and his family died in a plane crash, a North Carolina sheriff said Tuesday. Terrell Williams, 44, has been charged with second-degree burglary, safe cracking, money laundering and other felonies, Iredell County Sheriff

Darren Campbell announced at a news conference. Williams was being held without bond in Cobb County, Georgia, on suspicion of another home burglary. Jail records did not list an attorney. Campbell said investigators were led to Williams in July, when Cobb County police arrested him and found items taken from Biffle’s home. Biffle, his wife and his two children, along with three others, died in the Dec. 18 crash, which remains under investigation by the NTSB. Authorities reported a See BIFFLE, page A3

“He used headlines, social media posts ... to find out when people were and were not home, and he executed his plan in that capacity.” Darren Campbell, Iredell County sheriff

dia personality whose words have inspired his fans to attack his foes. The arguments in motions Tuesday represent the government’s most detailed explanation of its indictment and were filed in response to wide-ranging See COMEY, page A3

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THURSDAY

8.20.26 #156

Appeals court sides with Trump in fight over subpoena of gender-affirming care provider A divided court ruled the administration can align healthcare enforcement with its policy priorities

“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

By Sudhin Thanawala The Associated Press PRESIDENT DONALD Trump’s goal of ending gender-affirming care is not improper and cannot be the basis for quashing a subpoena issued by the Justice Department against a provider of medical treatment for transgender youth, a divided federal appeals court ruled last Friday. The Justice Department announced last year that it had issued more than 20 subpoenas to doctors and clinics that provide gender-affirming care as part of an effort to investigate healthcare fraud. Federal judges have quashed many of the subpoenas as illegitimate efforts to intimidate providers into ending care. In a 2-1 decision, a panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said the efficacy and long-term risks of the treatments are “uncertain,” and the president has the power to align the Justice Department’s enforcement priorities with his broader policy goals. “Every President has law enforcement priorities, just as every President has signature policies (often, the former are components of the latter),” Judge Carlos Bea wrote. Bea, a nominee of Republican President George W.

“We’re ready to continue defending one of the most fundamental principles of healthcare: every patient’s right to confidential medical care.” Adrien Leavitt, ACLU attorney Bush, was joined in the opinion by Daniel Bress, a Trump nominee. They reversed a ruling that quashed the subpoena against telemedicine provider QueerDoc, sending the case back to the district court to consider other arguments. The subpoena seeks QueerDoc’s personnel files, billing documents, communications with drug manufacturers and records of patients who were prescribed puberty blockers or hormone therapy, among other information, according to the 9th Circuit decision. American Civil Liberties Union attorney Adrien Leavitt, who represented Washington state-based QueerDoc, said the ACLU would continue fighting the subpoena in district court. QueerDoc has also argued the subpoena is overbroad and burdensome. The Justice Department has said it has reason to believe the company may be misleading people about puberty blockers and hormones. “We’re ready to continue defending one of the most fundamental principles of health-

care: every patient’s right to confidential medical care,” Leavitt said in a statement. He said the San Francisco-based 9th Circuit was the first appeals court to weigh in on the subpoenas. Trump has signed one executive order defining sex as only male or female — and as unchangeable — and another that seeks to end federal funding of gender-affirming care for patients under 19. The latter order also directs the Justice Department to “prioritize investigations” into violations of a drug safety law by “any entity that may be misleading the public about long-term side effects of chemical and surgical mutilation.” Gender-affirming care includes a range of medical and mental health services to support a person’s gender identity, including when it’s different from the sex they were assigned at birth. It encompasses counseling, medications that block puberty and hormone therapy to produce physical changes as well as surgeries to transform chests and genitals, though those are rare for minors. Most major medical groups say access to the treatment is important for those with gender dysphoria and see gender as existing along a spectrum. The 9th Circuit majority called discussion around gender-affirming care “an unsettled scientific debate” and said the Trump administration could also justify its opposition to the treatment on ethical or philosophical grounds.

CHATHAM

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

Aug. 21 Pittsboro’s Bazaar Night Market at The Plant 4-9 p.m. A family-friendly night market with local vendors, live music, food and drinks. The Plant 220 Lorax Lane Pittsboro

Finally Fridays Arts Walk: Ice Cream Eating Contest 5-8 p.m. Local artists and vendors in the social district, with an ice cream-eating contest at 6 p.m. on the SOCO patio. Downtown Pittsboro 39 West St. Pittsboro

Siler City Downtown Music Series: El Mirage 6-9 p.m. A free outdoor concert with kids’ activities, food vendors and late downtown hours. NC Arts Incubator 223 N. Chatham Ave. Siler City

SUBSCRIPTION RATES Annual subscription rate: $104.

Aug. 22 Sanford Farmers Market

We stand corrected To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.

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.

Get in touch

www

115 Chatham St. Sanford J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE / AP PHOTO

chathamnewsrecord.com

A portrait of President Donald Trump hangs on the Justice Department building in Washington, D.C., earlier this year.

Bluegrass Experience at Bynum Front Porch

CRIME LOG Aug. 10 • Julie Lynn Dillman, 50, of Bear Creek, was arrested for felony breaking and entering and larceny after breaking and entering. • Kelly Gene Headen, 41, was arrested for high-risk sex offender online conduct and sex offender residence violation. • Timothy Torel Richmond, 54, was arrested for seconddegree forcible rape, seconddegree kidnapping and assault by strangulation, and other charges. Aug. 11 • Auner Avel Benitez, 41, was arrested for trafficking in cocaine, possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine and felony possession of cocaine, and other charges. • Donald Aerl McIntosh, 59, of Bear Creek, was arrested for obtaining property by false pretenses and misdemeanor larceny. • Grayling Antonio Matthews, 34, was arrested for assault by strangulation, felony stalking and assault on a female, and other charges. • Haley Annice Kennedy, 25, was arrested for allowing a

Aug. 28 7-8:30 p.m.

registration plate not to be displayed, drive allow mv no registration and driving on a revoked license, and other charges. • Jonathan Pavon-Garcia, 33, was arrested for driving while impaired; possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a controlled substance; and felony possession of a controlled substance, and other charges. • Leonel Recinos Ruis, 48, of Moncure, was arrested for assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. • Madilyn Grace McGee, 21, of Bear Creek, was arrested for larceny by an employee. • Sylvain Bizimana, 34, was arrested for driving while impaired, exceeding posted speed and failure to reduce speed, and other charges. Aug. 12 • Harry Christian Kai Rattelman, 30, was arrested for driving while impaired, aggressive driving and fail to report accident, and other charges. • John William Paul, 44, was arrested for hit and run leaving the scene after property damage, driving on a revoked license and failure to maintain

lane control.

Aug. 14

• Jose Viera Lopez, 41, was arrested for felony larceny; giving, lending or borrowing a license plate; and driving on a revoked license.

• Harlay Keith Huff, 40, was arrested for assault on a female, misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and interfering with emergency communications.

• Olivia Lynn Hankins, 28, of Pittsboro, was arrested for speeding. Aug. 13 • Adam Daniel Webster, 40, was arrested for communicating threats. • Damani Zion Allison, 27, was arrested for second-degree trespass, driving on a revoked license and expired or no inspection, and other charges. • John Charles Smith, 52, of Broadway, was arrested for first-degree statutory sex offense and indecent liberties with a child. • Joshua Michael Jones, 18, of Apex, was arrested for communicating threats. • Mark David Horonetz, 54, was arrested for assault inflicting serious injury and sexual battery. • Timothy Earl Fox, 38, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine.

• Jeffrey Sherman Reives, 56, was arrested for failure to register as a sex offender.

Founded in 1971 by Tommy Edwards, this traditional bluegrass group has earned a loyal following in the Triangle area. Admission is free; donations are encouraged. Bynum General Store 950 Bynum Road Bynum

• Joseph Wiley Beal, 45, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia.

Sept. 4

• Timothy Richard Fox, 20, was arrested for statutory rape of a child, assault on a female and indecent liberties with a child, and other charges.

MOSAIC Blast from the Past: The CHAIN

Aug. 15 • Aleaha Renne Marr, 32, was arrested for driving while impaired. • Jahiem Tyrel Bringas, 23, was arrested for hit and run leaving the scene after property damage, driving while impaired and failure to carry a valid driver’s license, and other charges. Aug. 16 • Novella Alice Jennings, 28, was arrested for misdemeanor larceny, shoplifting by concealment of goods and contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile.

7-9 p.m. The lawn opens at 6 p.m. Food and drink will be available. Registration is required. Tommy Edwards Stage 457 Freedom Parkway Pittsboro

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Minnesota attorney general sues Texas governor to compel extradition of ICE agent for trial Christian Castro is facing charges related to a January shooting By Mark Vancleave The Associated Press ST. PAUL, Minn. — Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison sued Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Tuesday, seeking to compel the extradition of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent to stand trial for assault and falsely reporting a crime in the wounding of a man during the agency’s crackdown in Minneapolis. Ellison said he would request a temporary restraining order barring the Cameron County Sheriff’s Office in Texas from releasing ICE agent Christian Castro and requiring Abbott to sign the extradition warrant allowing Minnesota law enforcement agents to take custody of him. Castro was arrested 11 days after Minneapolis prosecutors charged him with assault and falsely reporting a crime in the Jan. 14 nonfatal shooting of Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis. The criminal complaint alleges that Castro fired a gun at the front door of a home in Minneapolis, striking a victim in the leg before the bullet lodged in a child’s bedroom wall, and then knowingly provided false information to an officer about it. Ellison said at a news conference that unless he’s extradited, Castro faces release from jail next week — 90 days since

ANDREW HARNIK / AP PHOTO

Former FBI Director James Comey speaks during a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., in June 2017. COMEY from page A1

JOHN LOCHER / AP PHOTO

Tear gas surrounds federal law enforcement officers as they leave a scene after a shooting on Jan. 14 in Minneapolis.

“Christian Castro is not above the law and Greg Abbott isn’t either.” Keith Ellison, Minnesota Attorney General he was detained — under Texas law, and could flee the U.S. from the border town where he’s being held. “Christian Castro has been charged with breaking the law in Minnesota,” Ellison said. “He must face justice in Minnesota. Gov. Abbott should have granted Gov. Walz’s extradition request long ago and is required to do so now.” “Christian Castro is not above the law and Greg Ab-

bott isn’t either,” Ellison added. Hennepin County Attorney Mary Moriarty said the legal action taken Tuesday to compel Castro’s extradition “should be a completely unnecessary lawsuit.” Officials at the jail and local prosecutors in Texas have been “very cooperative,” she said — “it is not supposed to be controversial.” She said that since Castro’s arrest, Texas has extradited three unrelated criminal defendants without incident to Minnesota at the request of state authorities. Gov. Abbott has received communication with us on an ongoing basis, including recently,” Ellison said. “We have to take the position that they are refusing to honor the extradition request.”

Moroccan security forces arrest nearly 300 migrants trying to reach Spain’s Ceuta Moroccan authorities also arrested 61 locals accused of helping organize the crossing attempts By Akram Oubachir The Associated Press CASABLANCA, Morocco — Hundreds of migrants trying to reach the Spanish exclave of Ceuta by land and sea were arrested by Moroccan security forces, Moroccan state television reported Sunday, as authorities tightened security along the border following calls for a new mass crossing. Moroccan state broadcaster Medi 1 TV said 294 migrants from sub-Saharan Africa were arrested Saturday while attempting to enter Ceuta. Authorities also arrested 61 Moroccans accused of facilitat-

ing the migration attempts, the broadcaster reported. The attempted crossings followed a surge in social media posts calling on migrants to make their way to Ceuta, a Spanish city on Morocco’s northern coast. In response, Moroccan and Spanish authorities beefed up security presence and limited movement toward the area. The latest attempt comes two weeks after tens of thousands of would-be migrants, driven by poverty and misinformation, rushed toward Ceuta in one of the deadliest migration crises to hit the region. At least 90 people died on both sides of the border, according to official numbers, while human rights groups reported higher figures. The interior ministry did not respond to AP’s questions about the latest arrests or the number

of security personnel deployed around the border to prevent a new migration push. A senior Moroccan diplomat previously said that more than 20,000 Moroccan security personnel are deployed along the border with Ceuta each day at a cost of hundreds of millions of dollars. The diplomat was not authorized to be publicly named speaking about the issue and spoke on condition of anonymity. Thousands of migrants from across Africa and beyond travel to Morocco each year, fleeing conflict, poverty and instability and seeking a route into Europe. Many attempt to reach Ceuta or Melilla, another Spanish exclave on Morocco’s northern coast, hoping eventually to make their way to mainland Spain and better economic opportunities.

Greg Biffle looks on during driver introductions before the 2022 Daytona 500 at Daytona International Speedway in Florida.

BIFFLE from page A1 break-in at the home on Jan. 8 and have said $30,000 in cash, two Glock handguns, NASCAR memorabilia and gold and silver coins were stolen. Investigators have recovered some of the stolen items, including NASCAR memorabilia, Campbell said. They also found a radio-frequency detector they believe Williams used during the burglary to locate security cameras. He said Williams is also suspected in another North Carolina burglary that occurred when a law enforcement officer was in the hospital. “He used headlines, social media posts, different things to find out when people were and were not home, and he executed his plan in that capacity,” Campbell said. Campbell said investigators have also identified a person

JOHN RAOUX / AP PHOTO

of interest in a separate fraud case following the Biffle family’s death. Investigators have said bank, Venmo and PayPal accounts tied to the Biffles were accessed online using personal information, with phone numbers and email addresses changed to gain control of funds. Money was then al-

legedly transferred to accounts not belonging to the family and used for purchases, according to a search warrant affidavit. At least one fraudulent check tied to Biffle’s business interests was cashed, and other attempts were made to access accounts. The activity occurred across multiple states.

defense efforts to dismiss the case on grounds including that it constitutes a vindictive prosecution and that Comey’s post did not amount to a true threat. Comey’s lawyers contend that investigators in the case misled judges, submitted documents containing false statements, withheld key facts and repeatedly came up empty in their efforts to prove that Comey intended a physical threat or knew that the number 86 could suggest violence. The entry for “86” from Merriam-Webster, the dictionary used by The Associated Press, says its meaning is “to throw out,” “to get rid of” or “to refuse service to.” Trump, a Republican, is the 47th. The Justice Department maintains the photo of the seashells, which Comey said he found on the beach, constituted a threat against Trump. Comey deleted the post shortly after he put it up, saying he did not know that anyone interpreted the numbers as a call to violence. His lawyers have said that the slogan has long meant to “get rid of” or “eject” and has been featured on thousands of items sold online and regularly displayed at protests. But the Justice Department sought in its filings to place the post against the backdrop of a spate of assassination plots or attempts against Trump in the months before and after Comey’s post. Prosecutors say that two minutes before the post was made, Comey’s wife texted him a screenshot of a definition of “86” that said “to get rid of or refuse service.” “There is no serious dispute that an objective viewer of Comey’s post could read it to mean ‘Kill President Trump,’” prosecutors wrote. The photo was posted days before Comey was set to release a novel titled “FDR Drive,” in which a prosecutor

“There is no serious dispute that an objective viewer of Comey’s post could read it to mean ‘Kill President Trump.’” U.S. prosecutors pursues a far-right social media personality who has called out his foes by name and inspired violence against them by his fans, the Justice Department said. After the Instagram post provoked an outcry, according to the government’s filings, Comey’s publishing agent observed in a text message to him that he had “gone viral.” Comey responded that that was “not my intention, but I’ll be OK if it sells books.” The agent replied, ”Music to an agent’s ears.” Prosecutors also asserted that there was “reason to doubt” Comey’s account of having come upon the seashells while on a walk, saying they were located 4 miles (6 kilometers) from where Comey was staying. Comey’s lawyers have called the indictment, the second in a year against him, part of a Trump retribution campaign targeting one of the president’s vocal critics. Trump fired Comey as head of the FBI in 2017 as Comey was overseeing an investigation into potential ties between the Republican’s 2016 presidential campaign and Russia, and Trump since then has called for him and other perceived adversaries to be jailed. But the Justice Department denied allegations of vindictiveness, saying the decision to indict Comey was made by the U.S. attorney in the area and did not derive from a directive from the president or the attorney general.

THE EVIL OF TODAY! Bible study: II Peter 2:1-22. Church of Living Water; Pastor: James Mitchell. Thank God for all the born-again, God-called SUHDFKHUV 7KDQN *RG IRU DOO $PHULFD ¿UVW SDWULRWV Give thanks to our Law Enforcement! Thanks to our ICE Law Enforcement, who are removing some 15 million illegals/criminals that Biden/Democrats brought into America for their votes. Where are our women patriots, standing up to these far-out liberal women who want men to compete in women’s sports? Where are our women/men teachers standing up for our children, as devils try to transgender them? Where are the Democrats who should be standing against these Socialist/Communist taking over the Democrat party? You rhino Republicans voting with these Democrats, God’s judgment is coming! Radical Muslims/Jihadists want to take over America. Just look at how many Socialist/ Communist politicians are already voting in our elections. Those of you who vote for these devils for all the free stuff are delusional! All Socialist countries go broke! You fake/lying news media need to start reporting true facts. The Democrat/Socialist party will take your money when they get into power. Don’t you know that if Harris/Walz had gotten into RI¿FH WKH\ ZRXOG KDYH EURXJKW LQ DQRWKHU PLOOLRQ illegals/criminals? All patriots who care about America, it’s so important to vote this November. Jesus will forgive all who have sinned if you truly repent! God cast the angels who sinned down to Hell. What do you think is going to happen to those who are doing the evil of today?

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | ANDREW TAYLOR-TROUTMAN

My field of dreams All three children joined me in the grass next to the neighborhood’s retention pond, and no one complained about the heat, humidity or mosquitoes.

LAST SATURDAY, I finally persuaded my three children to watch “Field of Dreams” for our weekly pizza and movie night. I think James Earl Jones and Kevin Costner are brilliant, yet I particularly love the work of Amy Madigan as the feisty Annie. The scene in which she calls the book-banning woman “a Nazi cow” at the PTA meeting is worth the price of streaming. The movie centers on the relationship between fathers and children, and though my kids didn’t love the movie as much as “Spider-Man,” the next evening my basketball-obsessed middle child asked me to “have a catch.” My heart somersaulted in my chest! I dug out my old baseball gloves, which my dad had saved for me after I’d left home for college. All three children joined me in the grass next to the neighborhood’s retention pond, and no one complained about the heat, humidity or mosquitoes. I’ve watched “Field of Dreams” at least a dozen times since I first saw it as

a boy with my family. I realize now that it’s a movie as much about legacies as baseball. Ghosts walk out of the corn, but the living characters are haunted by their regrettable mistakes: angry words, missed opportunities and old wounds. There’s divine intervention in the form of a mysterious voice, but as Annie tells her husband, “Ray, that’s a very nonspecific voice you have out there, and he’s starting to piss me off!” The character’s flesh-and-blood struggle is to redeem his negative past through his positive choices in the moment. “Field of Dreams” is about the risk to love. My kids are still young, although the oldest is on the cusp of that rebellious teenage stage in life. I do not believe in censorship, but I sympathize with the “Nazi cow” and all parents because we understand that there is much beyond our control. It is scary. And yet, rather than trying to ban what our kids read or watch, I think we want to invite them to grow, which includes the element of play.

When we played catch last Saturday evening, an errant throw bounced into the woods, and we all went in search of the baseball. My daughter found a vine of muscadine grapes, so we paused our game to collect the ripe fruit. Then we resumed our catch until another throw ended up in the pond. We were sweaty and itchy by then, so it was just as well that we called it quits. The sun was setting behind the trees as we made our way back to our house, and I reflected on the line that the baseball ghosts pose to Ray, “Is this heaven?” He smiled and replied, “This is Iowa.” This is Chatham County, and I am grateful that, despite my faults and errors as a father, my children choose to spend time with me. I’d play whatever game they’d like. 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 | VICTOR JOECKS

Clay Travis’ offer exposed the WNBA’s inclusion delusion

The WNBA exists because women aren’t athletic enough to compete with men.

LEFTIST DOGMA requires adherents to assert that men can become women and should be treated as such. That wouldn’t work out so well for WNBA players. On Monday, conservative talk show host Clay Travis offered to give the Las Vegas Aces $10 million — with a catch. He wants the Aces, the reigning WNBA champions, to play a game against a state champion high school boys’ team of his choosing. The winner of the game would receive the cash. “This will be the most money ever paid to win a single basketball game,” Travis wrote on X. “A modern day battle of the sexes.” That’s a lot of money, including for WNBA players. This year, the salary cap for each WNBA team is $7 million. But it’s unlikely the Aces will take Travis up on his generous offer. They didn’t respond to my request for comment and haven’t said anything publicly about it. The reason is obvious. Elite high school boys’ basketball players are significantly more athletic than top WNBA players. At the recent WNBA All-Star game, Seattle Storm player Dominique Malonga

became the ninth WNBA player to dunk. She wasn’t the ninth woman to dunk in that game. She was the ninth woman to dunk in the 30-year history of the league. In contrast, Cleveland Cavaliers star Evan Mobley dunked nine times in a single game last season. Travis didn’t make this offer to insult women. He made it to expose the rampant hypocrisy among the left generally and the WNBA specifically. In a July profile by ESPN, Indiana Fever player Sophie Cunningham said she wants to keep men out of women’s sports. “I want to protect young girls in a locker room, or young girls in sport who shouldn’t have to go against biological men,” Cunningham said. Despite the predictable outrage from the left, Cunningham didn’t back down. After the ESPN piece came out, she called her position “common sense.” This incensed many of those involved in the WNBA. On Sunday, Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve wore a shirt proclaiming “Trans Kids Belong” when her team played the Fever. Last week, before her team played the Fever, Storm player Stefanie Dolson

wore a shirt that read, “Trans Rights are Human Rights.” At that game, Storm co-owner Celeste Keaton berated two teenage girls who attended with signs supporting Cunningham. Keaton reportedly called them “f---ing insane.” The WNBA did suspend and fine Keaton. In 2022, the WNBA players’ union declared it “will fight for trans youth across the country.” “Sports is about belonging. It’s about inclusivity,” Golden State Valkyries coach Natalie Nakase said. “It’s about allowing everyone to be their authentic self,” which “includes trans women.” The WNBA exists because women aren’t athletic enough to compete with men. This used to be so obvious that it didn’t need to be said. Now many involved with the WNBA claim to support biological men competing in women’s sports. If that happened at scale, female basketball players wouldn’t make the cut. Travis’ proposal cleverly exposes the WNBA’s inclusion delusion. Victor Joecks is a columnist for the Las Vegas Review-Journal. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

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

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COLUMN | JAN HUTTON

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Labeled?

We humans seem to flourish when acknowledged, even in infinitesimal ways.

WHEN YOUNGER — oh, so much younger — I created a psychic wall around myself in public spaces. I did not invite interactions with folks around me. I just assumed most people felt the same way about respecting the privacy of others while in public venues. If you intruded on my space while in public, I perfected a glare worthy of freezing water on the spot. An Academy Award-worthy glare, I thought. (Is this something about which to brag?) OK, OK, outing the truth. I was labeled as an introvert early on, very early on. Damn those Myers-Briggs personality tests! Reserved; loves solitude and reflection; worn out by considerable social interaction. It seemed to fit, so I just carried it to the nth degree. I didn’t know any better, and those personality tests were administered by experts (so to speak). I now had a label. From experts. I could tell people, proudly, that I was an introvert. How cool. As I got older, I hit a real quandary. I noticed people around me, including yours truly, liked to be acknowledged and seen by others. Lighting up, in fact. We humans seem to flourish when acknowledged, even

in infinitesimal ways. Like plants in need of water. Noticing how we humans thrived on acknowledgment, I tiptoed into the waters of being more socially present to those around me. Amazing, I did not die! I couldn’t do mindful social presence 24/7 because I would die. I’m a hybrid introvert, or whatever. But, says she taking a deep breath, I got hooked. This introvert got hooked on social presence. Oh gosh, “social presence” sounds so damn academic. I got hooked on being a bearer of teeny-tiny bits of social acknowledgment, thrown around like fairy dust. Watering souls. Only time-limited by my available capacity in those moments. No labels tossed around. Just the fairy dust of acknowledgment. Damn labels! Damn ’em. As a naïve youngster, I latched onto the label of introvert and let it define me for way too long. “Labels are for jars,” not the complexities of being human. Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor.

Community policing ON JULY 19, my wife and I were eating at Elizabeth’s Pizza in Siler City. There were four Siler City police officers already seated when we went in. They, I assumed, were on their meal break and seemed to be enjoying their meal and the fellowship with each other. Before my wife and I finished our meal, they finished theirs, put on their tactical gear and left the restaurant. When we finished our meal, I asked for a takeout box and our bill. When the waitress came with the box, she said, “I have good news for you.” When I asked what the good news was, she said, “The four police officers have already paid for your meal.” I was pleasantly surprised and am thankful for their thoughtfulness and generosity. They can be certain that the good deed will be passed forward. Further than that, I feel this says something of the type of officers serving the public in the Siler City Police Department. Siler City is very blessed to have people like these in the police department. May God watch over them and protect them as they serve. Jim Pridgen, Siler City

COLUMN | MARK MINNELLA

America has a Man problem: when they leave the workforce, we all pay the price The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033.

TOO MANY American men are spending their prime working years outside the workforce, and the cost reaches far beyond lost income. In the mid-1950s, 97.4% of prime-age men, ages 25 to 54, participated in the labor force. In July 2026, that number was 89.2%. Put another way, the share of men in their prime working years outside the labor force has risen from roughly 1 in 38 to more than 1 in 9. I find those numbers troubling because work is more than a paycheck. Work brings structure to a day. It demands discipline and perseverance. It gives a man the opportunity to produce something, solve something, build something and provide for someone other than himself. Work responsibility is one of the ways men develop purpose and become connected to family and community. When large numbers of able-bodied men disconnect from work, the consequences ripple through our society. Too often, detachment from work causes detachment from responsibility, marriage, family formation and community. A Bureau of Labor Statistics study of men ages 30 to 36 found that among those who had not worked in the prior year, 70% had never married and 30.6% lived in a household with a parent. The same study found that 40.9% of nonworkers said health limited their ability to work, recognizing there are legitimate reasons some men cannot work, and compassion demands that we recognize them. That still leaves close to 60% who chose not to work. But compassion should not require us to ignore a larger cultural problem. For too long, our culture has been uncomfortable with many virtues associated with responsible manhood. Strength is too easily confused with aggression. Leadership is treated as domination. Provision

can be dismissed as antiquated. Sacrifice, perseverance and the responsibility to protect and provide are sometimes treated as though they belong to another era. We need to embrace the fact that there is nothing toxic about a man accepting responsibility. For Christians, that responsibility is not merely a cultural tradition. It is rooted in Scripture. Before there was a paycheck, a corporation or even a fallen world, God gave Adam work to do. Genesis 2:15 says God placed him in the garden “to tend and keep it.” Work was part of God’s design before sin entered the world. The Fall made work difficult; it did not make work meaningless. Scripture also makes a distinction our public conversation often misses. Second Thessalonians 3:10 says, “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.” It does not say cannot work. There is a world of difference between the man who cannot work and the man who will not. First Timothy 5:8 likewise makes providing for one’s household a serious responsibility. That is not a license for arrogance or domination. Biblical manhood is about responsibility, sacrifice, service, stewardship and strength under control. I also will not blame society for every man who chooses not to work. Men have a choice. A culture can lower expectations, but it cannot force a man to accept them. Each man is responsible for whether he accepts responsibility or avoids it. We should be able to hold two truths at once. First, our culture needs to do a better job encouraging responsible manhood, and second, men need to stop waiting for the culture’s permission before acting like … well, a responsible man. There is little reason to assume this problem simply corrects itself. The Bureau of Labor

Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033. However, another government program won’t change this trend’s direction. We need fathers teaching sons that responsibility is not a burden to escape but a privilege to carry. We need schools, churches, businesses, coaches and communities willing to tell boys that becoming a man means becoming useful to others. Most importantly, men themselves must decide that regardless of what the culture celebrates, they will work, build, provide, protect, serve and lead with character. The culture may change what it expects from men, but God has not. His expectations of responsibility, stewardship, sacrifice and provision live on. America does not merely need more men on payrolls. It needs more men who understand that their lives are supposed to count for something beyond themselves. The answer to men retreating from responsibility is not to continuously lower the bar until uselessness becomes the norm. Instead, we need to raise it. Call men to work. Call them to provide. Call them to build, protect, serve and lead. America does not need responsible manhood redefined downward. It needs responsible men willing to stand up. Mark Minnella was co-founder of the National Association of Christian Financial Consultants and “More Than Money” and is the author of “The Wall Street Awakening.”

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

Net zero is dead and gone

This goal was pure virtuesignaling, and it never made any practical sense.

IT WAS ONLY a few years ago when the climate change alarms and green energy fad were all the rage at the White House and corporate boardrooms. Former President Joe Biden’s policies were all tilted to ending fossil fuels, and many of America’s biggest corporations embraced the concept of net-zero fossil fuels. This was the movement during the Biden years to eliminate virtually all oil, natural gas and coal production and replace these energy sources with windmills, solar panels and electric vehicles. This goal was pure virtue-signaling, and it never made any practical sense. Roughly 70% of American energy comes from fossil fuels, and only about 10% comes from “green energy.” Studies showed that the initiative would have decimated the U.S. economy: millions of American jobs lost, hundreds of billions of dollars of lost GDP, and much higher energy costs for American businesses and families. It was an “unaffordability” project at a time when Americans are demanding lower, not higher, costs. It was all pain and no gain. Even if the U.S. had reduced its fossil fuel usage, it would have had only a tiny impact on total global emissions because China and India were opening up far more coal plants than America was shutting down. Washington spent hundreds of billions of dollars on taxpayer subsidies to promote wind

and solar, yet it remained as stalled out as the EV plants that are shutting down across the country. Good news: The net-zero movement is dead — or at least on life support. A new study that I coauthored for Unleash Prosperity found that Wall Street’s once-aggressive embrace of net-zero climate policies has been reversed. Six of the largest U.S. banks — JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley and Wells Fargo — have completely withdrawn from the Net-Zero Banking Alliance. What a reversal this is: The net-zero movement once included a powerful coalition of financial institutions representing 140 member banks and $75.5 trillion in assets. There are a few financial institutions — such as Morgan Stanley and State Street — that still embrace some of these radical regulations, but not many. Much of this never made sense given that AI and data center energy needs will double or triple our electric power demands over the next two decades. That will require an all-of-the-above approach to meet those needs and to keep power affordable for our businesses and families. It also made no sense because America has the cleanest coal and 600 years of reserves — more than any other nation. We also have several hundred years of clean and cheap natural gas, which is critical to keeping the

lights on, American factories humming and air conditioning running. Of course, to meet those energy needs, we also need to be using more nuclear power, which produces little to no greenhouse gas emissions. Good news on that front: For the first time in decades, Americans now support nuclear power as well. The radical environmental groups haven’t given up, and they will surely try another comeback. They’re now blaming forest fires on climate change — even though globally there has been no upward trend in recent decades despite the deadly fires in North America this summer. One country that hasn’t backed off the green energy fad is Germany. What a debacle. Once the manufacturing and engineering hub of Europe, the country has deindustrialized without access to cheap fossil fuels. It’s spent nearly half a trillion dollars on “Energiewende” wind turbines while shutting off much of its natural gas usage. Its power costs are now nearly double what the rest of Europe and the U.S. companies pay. Factories are shutting down. The collapse of the net-zero movement here at home is a victory for economic reality, common sense and American energy abundance. Stephen Moore is co-founder of Unleash Prosperity and a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

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obituaries

SPONSORED BY DONALDSON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATORY 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.

Butch Huskey, one of last major league players to wear No. 42, dead at 54

Emily A. Kaufman August 7, 2026 Emily A. Kaufman (21) of Siler City, North Carolina went home to the Lord on August 7th of 2026. Emily was born in Randolph County, NC to parents Christopher M. Kaufman and Tanya L. Cooper. Emily spent her early childhood in Mebane, NC and then moved to Siler City, NC where she was raised by her loving father. She attended local schools which included Chatham Middle and Jordan Matthews High School. On January 5, 2024, Emily gave birth to her beautiful son, Noah and her focus in life shifted to being a present and doting mother. Noah became Emily’s entire world and she was committed to loving him and giving him the best life possible. Emily was preceded in death by her paternal grandfather Brian Hansen (of Virginia) as well as her paternal Great Grandparents Jack and Shirlee

Hansen (of Libertyville, Illinois). 396 West St., Pittsboro, NC 27312 | 919-542-3057 | www.donaldsonfunerals.com Locally, Emily is survived by her father; Christpher Kaufman, Her son; Noah Cruz (2), her brother; Liam Kaufman (6), her aunt; Jennifer Kaufman, Paternal grandmother; Melissa Milholen, Close cousins; Jason, Kylie and Isabelle, along with her partner in life; Jonathan Garcia all of Siler City, NC. Emily is also survived by one paternal uncle in Texas, Jonathan Butch Huskey,” the Mets said in a The Oklahoma native Kaufman and many other statement last Friday. was among the final relatives in Illinois and Florida. Huskey, who was born and Emily was also survived by her players permitted to raised in Anadarko, Oklahoma, mother; Tanya Cooper, Arianna wear Jackie Robinson’s continued to wear No. 42 after and Abigail Perea; sisters retired number Major League Baseball retired whom she adored greatly, and grandmother; Salena Cooper all it in honor of Jackie Robinson in of Asheboro, NC. Emily was also 1997. Players who wore the numsurvived by great grandparents; ber at the time were permitted The Associated Press Sue and Gary Cooper of Siler to continue wearing it until they City, NC along with many other NEW YORK — Butch Hus- stopped playing. aunts, uncles, and cousins. Huskey wore No. 10 during key, who played seven major A GoFundMe is currently league seasons and was one of his rookie season in 1993, No. 44 in place to help assist Emily’s the last players to wear No. 42 in 1998 with the Boston Red father with funeral costs before it was permanently re- Sox and No. 35 with the Coloraand related expenses. If you do Rockies in 2000. Otherwise, tired, has died. He was 54. would like to give, the direct he wore No. 42. The Mets selectThe New York Mets said Huslink is https://gofund.me/ ed Huskey in the seventh round key died because of a blood clot c89a5bd99 of the 1989 amateur draft, and in his lung. Funeral arrangements are “We are saddened to learn he played parts of five seasons in being made and will be posted about the passing of former Met New York. in the near future. The family would like to thank Smith & Buckner Funeral Home for their assistance and compassion during this time. The family also would like to thank everyone who has shown up, called, texted and said prayers during this difficult time and for all of those who have donated and helped in so many ways to make this time just a tiny bit easier, you are all amazing and we appreciate it so much.

IN MEMORY

KAYLEE NICOLE THOMPSON NOV. 20, 2010 – AUG. 8, 2026 Kaylee Nicole Thompson, 15, of Bennett, went home to be with Jesus on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at her home. The funeral was held at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, 2026 at Beulah Baptist Church with Dr. Neal Jackson and Pastor Terry Warren presiding. Kaylee was born in Orange County on November 20, 2010, to Jeremy and Ashley Saferight Thompson. She attended Beulah Baptist Church. She was a rising sophomore at Chatham Central High School. Kaylee loved spending time with friends and family, especially spoiling her little sister, Kinsley. She had a heart of gold, always putting others first. She had a deep love of animals, especially her cat, Mae and her dogs, Roxie and Harley and any stray that might come her way. Kaylee enjoyed painting and creating artwork. She loved the beach and the lake. Kaylee was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Kay Ward and Harold Saferight. She is survived by her parents, Jeremy and Ashley Thompson, of the home; sisters, Khloe and Kinsley Thompson, of the home; brothers, Karter Thompson, of the home; Chandler Thompson and Mason Thompson; paternal grandparents, Phyllis and Jamie Hobbs, of Graham; great-aunt and great-uncle, Tanna and Doyle Powers, of Bennett and a host of family and friends. The family would like to thank the Bennett community for their prayers and support. A very special and heartfelt thank you to our cousin, Carri Hampton and her husband, Bryant. Their love, prayers and generosity have been invaluable.

In 1997, Huskey set career highs with 24 home runs and 81 RBIs in 142 games for New York. He also played for Seattle and Minnesota. Huskey is the penultimate Met to wear No. 42. Mo Vaughn wore the number from 2002 to 2003. Huskey hit .267 with 86 homers and 336 RBIs in 642 career games. “Just want to acknowledge a solemn day with the passing of Butch Huskey this morning,” said Mets interim manager Andy Green said last Friday. “Just want to send prayers and thoughts to his family. I know all of our Mets family is thinking of him, and the people who love him today.”

Hayden Panettiere, who starred in television series ‘Heroes,’ ‘Nashville,’ dead at 36 She was open about her battles with depression, anxiety and addiction The Associated Press

LOS ANGELES — Hayden Panettiere, star of popular television series including “Heroes” and “Nashville,” has died. She was 36. Panettiere’s father, Skip, announced the actor’s death in a statement provided to ABC News on Sunday. “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen,” his statement said. No cause of death was announced, and a publicist for Hayden Panettiere did not immediately respond to an email from The Associated Press. Panettiere, who would have turned 37 Friday, began her career as a child actor in commercials and soap operas. Her role as a cheerleader with superpowers in “Heroes” propelled her to fame in 2006, with the series revolving around the mantra “Save the cheerleader, save the world.” “I think ‘Heroes’ is really hot because it’s just a really great combination of everything that people love — they love reality, they love sci-fi and things like X-Men where they get to dream of something bigger,” Panettiere told The Associated Press in 2008. “And at the core of it

are these human stories that people can relate to, very rugged. And it’s just grabbed everyone in every age group.” She went on to win three Teen Choice Awards for that role and was a Grammy Award nominee for a children’s spoken word album recorded a few years after the release of the animated movie “A Bug’s Life.” Panettiere later played a brash country upstart opposite Connie Britton on “Nashville,” which aired on ABC for four seasons before being canceled and revived on CMT. She did her own singing in the show, which scored some hits on country charts, spawned U.S. tours and earned Panettiere two supporting actress Golden Globe nominations. Panettiere had 11 songs recorded for “Nashville” appear on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs charts during the show’s run, including two featuring Britton. Panettiere’s younger brother, Jansen, who was also an actor, died of a heart condition in 2023, at age 28. She had been open about her struggles with alcohol addiction and depression, including after the birth of her daughter with Ukrainian boxer Wladimir Klitschko in 2014. In an interview with podcaster Jay Shetty after her memoir came out in May, Panettiere talked about the custody arrangement for her 11-year-old daughter, who lives full-time with Klitschko in Ukraine. News of the 2018 decision prompted headlines about Panettiere giving up custody of her daughter.

“I think there’s been this very common misconception that I just gave up my child,” she said. “That could not be farther from the truth.” Panettiere said Klitschko suggested their daughter live with him full-time when the child was 2 as Panettiere struggled with mental health challenges and addiction. She said she was in a “horrible cycle for years of battling depression and anxiety and alcoholism and substance abuse” while “just trying to find my way back, my way out of the darkness.” She entered rehab in 2015, while filming “Nashville.” “I was the one who put myself in the first treatment center. I was drowning,” she said in a 2023 interview with Women’s Health magazine. On Shetty’s podcast, Panettiere recalled the explosion of her fame when she was cast on “Heroes,” including the first time she was tracked by the paparazzi. When she’d imagined the moment as a younger actress, she’d planned to look chic. Instead, she said, “it was just sheer terror.” Panettiere also appeared in two of the “Scream” movies, starred as the title character in the 2009 film “I Love You Beth Cooper” and played the young daughter of a football coach in “Remember the Titans.” She had spoken positively about her experience filming “Remember the Titans,” saying she felt so similar to the character she played — Sheryl Yoast, the opiniated, football-loving daughter of Will Patton’s Coach Bill Yoast. Hayden Panettiere arrives at the 21st annual Critics’ Choice Awards at the Barker Hangar in January 2016 in Santa Monica, California.

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

JORDAN STRAUSS / AP PHOTO

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Ex-officer accused of plotting New Orleans attack released after grand jury declines to indict Christopher Gillum was arrested in April with ammunition and a handgun

“It’s very difficult to convince a jury, or to convince a grand jury, that something might have happened.”

By Jack Brook The Associated Press NEW ORLEANS — A former law enforcement officer accused of planning to kill Black people in a mass shooting at a New Orleans festival was quietly released from custody over the summer after a grand jury found there was not enough evidence to charge him with a crime. A Louisiana grand jury in June declined to indict Christopher Gillum on a state terrorism charge that could have carried up to a 15-year sentence, court records show. Gillum, who had been held without bond, was released shortly after the grand jury’s decision and is not facing charges in any other jurisdictions, according to his attorney, Dylan Utley. He declined to comment further. Gillum’s release has not previously been reported. The 45-year-old ex-police officer, who is from Chapel Hill, had been arrested in Florida in April with hundreds of rounds of ammunition and a handgun while on his way to Louisiana to commit a mass shooting, according

Katherine Schweit, former FBI executive

OKALOOSA COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE VIA AP

Christopher Gillum was arrested April 22 at a hotel in Destin, Florida. to the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation had involved the FBI and authorities across Louisiana, North Carolina and Florida. Authorities did not name the event Gillum was allegedly targeting, but his arrest came on the eve of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, which attracts hundreds of thousands of festivalgoers annually. Gillum, who is white, had “expressed recent threats to harm ‘Black people,’” according to authorities. His family had reported him missing in North Caroli-

na and said he had a history of self-harm. Lester Duhe, a spokesperson for Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, said in a statement that Gillum’s family had taken him “to a treatment facility out of the state” and that he is not facing additional criminal charges. Duhe said there were “several jurisdictional issues” that complicated the case after Gillum was extradited to Louisiana following his arrest. “The threat relayed to a family member actually occurred in North Carolina,” Duhe said. “The defendant never entered

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a jury, or to convince a grand jury, that something might have happened,” Schweit told The Associated Press. Law enforcement authorities in North Carolina, where Louisiana court records list Gillum as residing, told the AP that they were not aware he had been released from custody. “If we’ve got an individual that was accused of such an action, we would want to know if in fact he did return to Alamance County,” said Byron Tucker, a spokesperson for the Alamance County Sheriff’s Office. Nazneen Ahmed, a spokesperson for North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson, said their office is not involved and that criminal prosecution authority in the state generally belongs to local district attorneys. The office of the Florida Attorney General did not respond to a request for comment about whether Gillum may face additional criminal charges in its jurisdiction. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Louisiana also did not return messages seeking comment. In a statement, the FBI New Orleans office said the decision whether to charge Gillum rested with prosecutors. The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival declined to comment.

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the State of Louisiana until after his arrest.” Gillum had been planning to travel to the Florida Keys “during the same period he would have been suspected to travel to Louisiana,” Duhe added. Gillum was charged under a Louisiana statute for the crime of “terrorizing,” which requires that “a crime of violence is imminent or in progress or that a circumstance dangerous to human life exists or is about to exist.” Jonathan Guidry, the foreperson for the grand jury, declined to comment on the decision to not indict Gillum. Katherine Schweit, a former Chicago prosecutor and FBI executive who ran the agency’s active shooter program, said that thwarted acts of mass violence do not always lead to indictments, but prosecutors often seek an array of criminal charges when possible. “It’s very difficult to convince

REZONING from page A1 to be utilized as a connected piece of the Powell Place Mixed-Use Planned Development. “When Powell Place was first conceived and developed, there was a lot more commercial that was supposed to be coming down Millbrook Drive and Powell Place Lane,” said Commissioner John Foley. “So I’m glad to see that you’re starting with (commercial).” “I’m glad this is finally moving forward,” said Commissioner John Bonitz. “We certainly need more commercial in the town, and the prospect of reusing this land in a way that is safe is very enticing.” The board also held a public hearing for changes to the FY 2026-27 Development Fee Ordinance to add a per-acre charge for the review of watersheds and a fee for the review of amendments to construction drawing plans. “Those were in the prior year ordinances that were left off when we did the revision to the development fee ordinance,” said Finance Director Heather Meacham. The FY 2026-27 Development Fee Ordinance was previously approved June 8. Following the hearings, the commissioners approved both requests.

“We certainly need more commercial in the town, and the prospect of reusing this land in a way that is safe is very enticing.” John Bonitz, commissioner In addition, the board authorized the town manager to be able to negotiate the purchase of a greenway easement located off Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive for the connection of a greenway system. “This piece will connect Robeson Creek Park to MLK and then Chatham Park has agreed, as part of their affordable housing element, to build a greenway from MLK to Small Street, which will then tie into the existing Robeson Creek Greenway that ties into downtown,” said Town Manager Jonathan Franklin. The total cost is not to exceed $25,000. “This is the missing piece of the greenway, really, from downtown on Sanford Road out to the new park,” said Mayor Kyle Shipp. The Town of Pittsboro Board of Commissioners will next meet Sept. 14.

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A8

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

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A9

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE

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 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

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

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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

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY HAVING QUALIFIED as Administrator of the Estate of Karl Frederick Ernst 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 19th day of November, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 12th day of August, 2026. Barbara Gray Ernst, Administrator Of the Estate of Karl Frederick Ernst 711 Red Oak Drive Siler City, North Carolina 27344 MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp

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 above-named 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 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk NOTICE TO CREDITORS File Number 26E000379-180 Brenda Sites, having qualified as Executor of the estate of Barbara Boone Young, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, hereby wishes to notify all persons having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned at the below listed address on or before the 20th day of November 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned at the below listed address. This is the 20th day of August, 2026. Brenda Sites c/o Huston Law Firm, PLLC 2501 Blue Ridge Road, Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 A20, 27, 3 and 10

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 TO CREDITORS 26E000473-180 NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY The undersigned, Jodi N. Wiley, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Loretta A. Neely, 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 18, 2026 or this notice will be plead in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 20th day of August 2026. Jodi N. Wiley Executor Marie H. Hopper Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post Office Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312

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 26E000036-180 ALL persons having claims against Susan Hill Oliver, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Nov 20 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 20th day of August, 2026. JAIME SUSAN OLIVER, Executor C/O Haas & Associates, P.A. 5100 Oak Park Road, Suite 200 Raleigh, NC 27612 A20, 27, 3 and 10

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#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

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

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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY Special Proceedings No. 26SP000082-180 Trustee: Philip A. Glass NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Date of Sale: September 1, 2026 Time of Sale: 2:30 p.m. Place of Sale: Chatham County Courthouse Description of Property: See Attached Description Record Owners: Jared T. Richmond and Alexis N. Ruiz Address of Property: 5001 NC Highway 87 N. Pittsboro, NC 27312 Deed of Trust: Book : 2383 Page: 150 Dated: September 28, 2023 Grantors: Jared T. Richmond and Alexis N. Ruiz, a married couple Original Beneficiary: State Employees’

Credit Union CONDITIONS OF SALE: This sale is made subject to all unpaid taxes and superior liens or encumbrances of record and assessments, if any, against the said property, and any recorded leases. This sale is also subject to any applicable county land transfer tax, and the successful third party bidder shall be required to make payment for any such county land transfer tax. It is the intent of the holder of the above Deed of Trust that the execution, delivery and recordation of a Trustee Deed to the holder as high bidder shall not merge with any superior Deeds of Trust held by the holder of the above Deed of Trust, and that the holder of said superior Deed of Trust shall continue to enjoy all rights and remedies set forth in said superior Deed of Trust, including the right to foreclose either by judicial action or under power of sale contained in the superior Deed of Trust. The property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale “AS IS, WHERE IS.” THERE ARE NO

REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES relating to the title or to 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. A cash deposit of 5% of the purchase price will be required at the time of the sale. Remote bidding will not be accepted pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes Section 45-21.25 (a). Credit bids on behalf of the Noteholder will be accepted. Any successful bidder shall be required to tender the full balance of the purchase price so bid in cash or certified check at the time the Substitute Trustee tenders to him a deed for the property or attempts to tender such deed, and should said successful bidder fail to pay the full balance purchase price so bid at that time, he shall remain liable on his bid as provided for in North Carolina General Statutes Section 45-21.30 (d) and (e). This sale will be held open ten (10) days for upset bids as required by law. Residential real property with less than

Notice to Creditors Estate of Richard Locaparra, Sr. ALL PERSONS, firms and corporations having claims against Richard Locaparra, Sr, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before 11/20/2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 20th day of August, 2026. Richard Locaparra Jr., Executor 220 Bailey Way Siler City NC 27344 c/o Hopler, Wilms & Hanna, PLLC 2314 S. Miami Blvd. Suite 151 Durham, NC 27703 8/20, 27, 9/3, 10, 2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000475-180 The undersigned, TERRANCE C. JOHNSTON, having qualified on the 12TH Day of AUGUST 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of REBECCA F. BECKER, 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 20TH 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 20TH Day of AUGUST 2026. TERRANCE C. JOHNSTON, EXECUTOR 1504 MIRIAM AVE. GARNER, NC 27529 Run dates: A20,27,S3,10p

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#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 NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000419-180 The undersigned, TRICIA HATHCOCK, having qualified on the 14TH Day of JULY 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of PATRICK HOWELL GARNER, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them on or before the 6TH Day of NOVEMBER 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This, the 6TH Day of AUGUST 2026. TRICIA HATHCOCK, ADMINISTRATOR 687 SHERIFF WATSON RD. SANFORD, NC 27332 Run dates: A6,13,20,27p

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#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#26E000176-180 The undersigned, FRANK BERRY HILL, having qualified on the 1ST Day of JUNE 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of JO CARROL ELAINE HILL, 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 20TH 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 20TH Day of AUGUST 2026. FRANK BERRY HILL, ADMINISTRATOR 3664 OYSTER BLUFF DR. BEAUFORT, SC 29907 Run dates: A20,27,S3,10p

15 rental units, including single-family residential real property: 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 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 not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. Dated: 8/4/2026 ______________________________ Philip A. Glass, Trustee Nodell, Glass & Haskell, L.L.P.

Posted on 8/4/2026 Exhibit A BEING ALL of Lots 4 and 4A, as shown on that certain plat of survey entitled “Recombination Survey for Lucille Degraffenriedt and Norris V. Lee, Hadley and Center Townships, Chatham County, North Carolina.” prepared by Smith and Smith surveyors, and recorded in Plat Slide 2001-149 in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Chatham County, North Carolina. This conveyance is made subject to right of way for NC Highway 87. Lot 4A conveyance is not approved as a separate building lot, but is an addition to Lot 4. Deed references: BK 371, PG 207 and BK 870 PG 788. Subject to easements, restrictions and rights of way of record, and utility lines and rights of way in existence over, under or upon the above-described property. Parcel: 0010983 Property Address: 5001 NC Highway 87 N., Pittsboro, NC 27312

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Hidden politics of time: How clocks, calendars, now-contentious time zones came to be How industrialization and politics transformed time from natural cycles into precise systems

“But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.”

By Deepti Hajela The Associated Press NEW YORK — It flies. It heals all wounds. It can be of the essence, and it can be money. We thrill in the best of it, lament the worst. We’re warned not to waste it, since we can’t turn it back — even as we try to make up for when it’s lost. And probably more than anything when it comes to time, most of us try to manage it — in our everyday lives and on a global scale, from the biology of our circadian rhythms to what constitutes a work day. Clocks. Calendars. Pendulums. Hourglasses. Sundials. Time zones. For something that’s been a pretty universal impulse to mark the shift of light and dark, the movement of the stars and the rhythms of the tides, the cycles of summer heat and winter cold, one might assume there’s been a universal way of measuring time. That assumption would be wrong. Take the shifting of the clock twice a year in most of the United States, once forward and then back again, a system that “moves” the time to let people enjoy daylight hours later into the evening. While people love the light, a lot of them loathe having to make the change. So much so that the House of Representatives last month overwhelmingly passed legislation calling for the shift to become permanent year-round. Its prospects for passage in the Senate aren’t high, and when the country tried it in the 1970s it was wildly unpopular and short-lived. But it continues to be brought up, an indication that the way we keep the clock counts. The methods different peoples and communities have used to track their lives haven’t existed in a vacuum. They’ve been impacted by culture, by religion, by economics and technology, by the governing

Michael O’Malley, George Mason University history professor

MICHAEL PROBST / AP PHOTO

People gather on top of the Feldberg mountain to watch the sunset near Frankfurt, Germany, June 21, 2025. principles both within nations and among them. Turns out, like pretty much anything where people are involved, there’s a politics to time. Measurements of time made up but still matter “Every measurement of time is arbitrary,” said Elizabeth Cohen, a political science professor at Boston University who has written about how we chronicle time and how it impacts the way people relate to each other. “Every deadline could have been a fraction of a second or a large increment of time different than it was,” she said. “None of it is natural.” Take calendars. We use them to give a structure to our lives, but the spectrum of what that has looked like is vast through human existence. Some followed the sun, others the moon and others still a combination of both. Maybe all the months were the same length, maybe they weren’t. What we call a seven-day week might have had four, six or some other number of days in other timekeeping systems. Even today, when the main calendar in use globally is what we know as the Gregorian calendar, with its 12 months and leap years, other calendars are still consulted for re-

ligious or cultural purposes in places from Israel to Thailand. And daylight saving time? With its connection to our perceptions of what hours of light become available to us, it reflects “a desire for natural time,” said Michael O’Malley, a history professor at George Mason University. People “are outside longer, so they feel it as a connection to nature,” he said. “But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.” Culture of clock evolving It’s not just about the how. When we think about how culture evolved around time, there’s also the why. For most of human history, there were ties to the rhythms of the natural world: the phases of the moon, the rising and setting of the sun, the ebb and flow of the tides. And in agricultural societies, the importance of when to plant and when to harvest. Tracking the sun’s journey across the sky was a local endeavor. While the idea of a day broken down into 24 equal segments was important to groups like astronomers or seafarers, daily life was broken into “systems that tended

to expand and contract based on the time of year and the location,” said Kevin Birth, an anthropology professor at Queens College. “But since people weren’t really traveling back and forth with any great rapidity back,” he said, “then it really didn’t matter.” Industrialization — in the form of the Industrial Revolution that started in 18th-century England and spread — pushed people to shift notions of time. No longer was it about the sun’s cycle or the turn of the seasons. Industrial production meant schedules — people paying attention to the clock because they were due for specific shifts. “It was one of the goals of industrialization to instill in people this regular, unvarying sense of time,” O’Malley said. Contrast that to a preindustrial farmer, he said. “You could have an ethic of hard work, but that work is not going to be governed by a clock. It’s typically going to be governed by natural cues. The clock establishes this external authority that’s not you.” In the United States by the mid-1800s, another issue arose: time zones. There were more than 40 based around cities, which O’Malley said forced railroad companies to switch dynamically as trains traveled. Worried that other entities would standardize the zones and disrupt their businesses, the companies acted. “The American Railway Association got all the American railroads to agree that on Nov. 18, 1883, they would declare a four-zone

Ben Franklin chose America while son William chose the crown — a microcosm of revolution The son’s loyalty to the crown cost him his freedom, his country and his father

A marble bust and a portrait of Benjamin Franklin is displayed at the Benjamin Franklin House in London on May 11.

By Danica Kirka The Associated Press LONDON — In central London, near where tourists and business travelers board Eurostar trains to Paris, lies the burial place of Benjamin Franklin’s eldest son — a man whose life and family relationships were upended by his stance on the American Revolution. William Franklin was buried at the graveyard of St. Pancras Old Church following his death in 1813, more than three decades after he was forced to leave America because of his service to the country his father fought so hard to win independence from. His burial in the capital of what was then the British Empire is a reminder that the Revolution was as much a civil war as it was the founding act of the United States of America. It is also, historians say, a reminder that the conflict that destroyed friendships and ripped apart families 250 years ago continues today. “Now especially, I think it is important for people to understand that American history is 250 years of everybody disagreeing with each other,” said James Taub, associate curator at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia. “The American Revolution is an ongoing event. We are living it, right still to this day,” he said. “And we’re all taking part in it in

KIN CHEUNG / AP PHOTO

one way or another.” America’s creation story anything but simple After President Donald Trump’s Great American State Fair in Washington, D.C., after the band concerts and barbecues and fireworks that marked Independence Day celebrations across the U.S., the country is still faced with the task of forming a more perfect union out of the anger and confrontation that have filled the period since the Republican returned to the White House in January 2025. It is a messy process that started amid the wreckage of the Revolution. Often simplified as the tale of the plucky patriots who banded together to defeat the mighty British Empire, the revolution was more accurately an eight-year war fought by people who once saw themselves as British against the armies of their former sovereign.

As much as one-third of the population remained loyal to King George III, and at times during the war, loyalist Americans were the biggest contingent of troops in the British forces. Enslaved black people fought on both sides of the conflict, as did Indigenous people. People based their allegiances on who they thought was more likely to deliver freedom and justice. That complicated reality played out in the Franklin family. Revolution for colonies, tear in Franklin family’s unity When Ben Franklin flew a kite into a thunderstorm in 1752 to demonstrate that lightning was essentially a massive electrical spark, young William Franklin was by his side. Five years later, father and son traveled to London together after Ben Franklin was sent to

the capital of the British Empire to represent Pennsylvania’s colonial government. As Ben Franklin settled into his home at 36 Craven St., which today serves as a museum of the Founding Father’s life in London, William studied law and married. Both enjoyed London’s culture and nightlife. William Franklin returned to America and became governor of New Jersey in 1763, a post he would hold for the next 13 years. But father and son came into increasing conflict when Ben Franklin returned to Philadelphia in 1775. While the elder Franklin backed growing calls for independence as a member of the Continental Congress, William rejected the authority of Congress and continued to represent the king. William Franklin was arrested by the emerging American government’s forces as “an enemy of the country’s liberty” in January 1776 and imprisoned until October 1778, much of the time in solitary confinement. After his release in a prisoner exchange, he became a leader of the loyalist community in the British stronghold of New York City. Following the defeat of British forces, William Franklin sailed for London in 1782. He is believed to have had only one brief meeting with his father between his arrest and Ben Franklin’s death in 1790. Franklin warned son about the risk from royal ties The bitter split came about even though Ben Franklin repeatedly warned his son that if

system in effect in America,” O’Malley said. “And they just announced it.” Time can be cudgel It’s hardly the only occasion where the perception of time has involved national or global concerns. Take the Prime Meridian, the entirely made-up longitude line running from the North Pole to the South Pole, that divides Earth into eastern and western hemispheres and is used as the basis for global timekeeping as well as navigation. It runs through Greenwich, England, and was selected at an international conference in 1884. Was that because Greenwich was the ideal place? No, Birth said — it simply was established during “a period when the British Empire was one of the dominant empires in the world.” Time zones themselves “are about politics,” he said, pointing out that they are not divided in a standard format. Countries decide their own, and in the U.S., the individual states can decide if they observe Daylight Saving or not. A prime example is China, which stretches more than 3,000 miles across Asia. It has one official time zone for the country, instituted when the Communist Party took power in 1949 as a form of national unity. The entire country runs officially on Beijing time, but the reality on the ground when the sun rises in eastern China hours before it rises in western China is people adjust with their own local times for daily life, Birth said. Time can also be a tool used in a society to manage dissent and protest, Cohen said. She pointed to examples like governments instituting curfews or protesters engaging in slowdowns or strikes. “Time has a lot of power,” she said, “and people are battling over it to try and impose themselves on others or remove the yoke that has been imposed on them.”

he did not step down as royal governor, the new government would arrest him, said Daniel Mark Epstein, who chronicled the relationship in his book “The Loyal Son: The War in Ben Franklin’s House.” But William Franklin would not relent. “He was absolutely not gonna budge,” Epstein said. “He was the last governor to leave his office, and he had to be dragged away literally in irons.” Epstein sees the Franklin story as a cautionary tale for the angry citizens of 21st-century America, a country marked by easy access to guns and falling educational standards. By contrast, Colonial America was a highly literate society where 90% of the population could read and people were more likely to argue out their problems than resort to violence. Yet still the Colonies’ differences with Britain descended into war. “Our educational system has failed us here,” Epstein said. “We’re really in a terrible crisis in terms of education. People find it very, very difficult to have rational arguments because they don’t have the language, and yet there’s this crazy availability of weapons.” Taub takes a broader view, seeing echoes of the conflicts that ignited the Revolution in the tensions of today. He said Americans need to understand the complexities of the Revolutionary era so they can see how unique the Declaration of Independence was in 1776 and why so many other countries have since modeled their founding documents on it. “It makes me feel better about us today,” he said. “And I think it will show that we’re just part of 250 years of an ongoing story and 250 years of an ongoing mission that was laid down, a cause that was laid down by people in 1776.”

CHATHAM SPORTS

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Chatham Central quarterback Brooks Albright fires a pass at the Jack Shaner Football Jamboree last week.

Football returns for Chatham County schools All four teams will open the season at home Chatham News & Record staff THE HIGH SCHOOL football season opens Friday night with all four county teams kicking things off at home. Seaforth, coming off a 6-6 season in 2025, gets a home opener, facing Chapel Hill at 7 p.m. Friday in a rematch

of last season’s opening game. Chatham Central also hosts its season lid lifter. The Bears will kick off against Graham at 7 p.m. Friday. It’s a rematch of last season’s opener, won 30-26 by the Bears. Graham went on to a winless season, while Chatham Central lost the rest of its contests for a 1-10 mark. Chatham has reason for optimism, returning quarterback Brooks Albright for his third year as starter. Albright battled

injury last season, but he has his health and three senior receivers to go with a pair of transfers from Jordan-Matthews. The Bears also return their leading running back and top tacklers, led by the CNR defensive player of the year for 2025, Gavin Williams. While Jordan-Matthews lost two receivers to a cross-county rival, the Jets have plenty of young playmakers as they open the season at home against Car-

rboro at 7 p.m. Friday. J-M is seeking its first winning season since 2011 after just missing at 5-6 last year. The 15-14 win in last season’s opener was one of the Jets’ two wins by less than a touchdown, so the opener could be crucial toward helping the team break its drought. J-M must replace star running back Jakari Blue and will also have a new quarterback in Lennox Mordecai, who moves over from defense. Carrboro is coming off a 1-9 season, but — unlike Jordan-Matthews — the Jaguars return their starting quarterback. Northwood had a 3-8 campaign last year after back-to-back winning seasons. The Chargers will look to get back to their winning ways, starting with the opener against Harnett Central

15-30 Combined record of the four county schools last football season

at 7 p.m. Friday. The Chargers were blown out by Harnett 55-7 to open last season. The Trojans return their quarterback as well as their leading rusher. So Northwood has a tall task to reverse last year’s result. Northwood will be turning to a new quarterback in Finn Sullivan, a backup last season. He’ll be looking for leading receiver Raje Torres.

Seaforth ready for next step

Northwood’s Sadie Tauber dives for a ball against Seaforth.

The Hawks had a breakthrough in 2025 and want to build on it Chatham News & Record staff THE SEAFORTH Hawks announced their arrival last season. They don’t want to stick around, though — they’d

like to move up to greater heights. After getting a key win over Northwood in their rivalry game, earning a tie for first in the conference and posting the first playoff win in school history, Seaforth had a breakthrough year in 2025. Still, See SEAFORTH, page B3

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Volleyball, boys’ soccer finish first week of new season Chatham News & Record staff BOYS’ SOCCER Northwood opened its 2026 schedule with a 5-1 win at Eastern Alamance. The Chargers will look to build on the fast start with four games over the next week. They open the slate with a road game at rival Seaforth, then host Central Academy, Grace Christian and Graham. Seaforth dropped its first

two games, losing 8-2 at Green Level and dropping the home opener 5-2 against East Chapel Hill. Next up are three home games, against Apex, Northwood and Eastern Alamance. Jordan-Matthews opened the season with a 1-1 tie, deadlocking Lee County on the road. It was the Jets’ first tie in three years. They remain on the road for matches with Central Carolina Academy and Fike before opening the home slate with a rematch against CCA,

followed by Eastern Alamance. Chatham Charter gets its season started this week with road games at Eno River and CCA. VOLLEYBALL Seaforth got off to a fast start to the volleyball season, beating Northwood on the road in straight sets to open the year. The Hawks then swept Apex See FIRST WEEK, page B3

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Duncan Parker (7) turns the corner on a quarterback keeper against Chapel Hill in last season’s opening game. Parker led the Hawks to a breakthrough season but will try to take the team even higher this year.

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Ally Forbes RUSTY JONES / AP PHOTO

Former NBA All-Star point guard and current Milwaukee Bucks head coach Doc Rivers speaks during his enshrinement into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

Delle Donne, Parker inducted into Basketball Hall of Fame Doc Rivers, Amar’e Stoudemire and Mike D’Antoni were also in the induction class The Associated Press

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Seaforth, volleyball Ally Forbes is a senior outside hitter on the Seaforth volleyball team. She is committed to play at Gardner-Webb next season. The Hawks are 2-1 to start the season, and Forbes has been on her game. She has led Seaforth in kills in all three games. She’s also had at least a half-dozen digs and double-digit receptions in every match on the young season. She currently ranks sixth in N.C. Class 5A in hitting percentage. She leads Seaforth in kills and receptions while ranking third in digs and aces.

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. — Candace Parker and Elena Delle Donne both used their Hall of Fame speeches to serve as a love letter to basketball. The sport has given so much to them, culminating with enshrinement into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Parker carried a ball up to the podium for her speech as part of the 2026 class that also included the 1996 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team, Chamique Holdsclaw, NBA player Amar’e Stoudemire, longtime NBA official Joey Crawford, NBA coaches Doc Rivers and Mike D’Antoni, and Gonzaga coach Mark Few. “It felt weird to walk on the stage without the reason I’m here today,” Parker said, talking to the ball. “We did a lot together: dunk on UConn at UConn, shimmied over our right shoulder and hit that sick fadeway, had our own signature shoe, first woman to grace the cover of NBA2K. ... We stand on this podium as first-ballot Hall of Famers.” Parker, who won three WNBA titles, two MVPs, a pair of championships at Tennessee and two Olympic gold medals, then broke down while closing her speech, saying that “we were meant to be a love

story that began 27 years ago.” Delle Donne also used her speech as a love letter to the game with all the ups and downs she faced in her career. But she always kept life in perspective, thanks to her older sister Lizzie, who is blind and deaf. “She never played in front of thousands of people, never had a standing ovation, never been interviewed after a big win. Yet I’ve never met anyone stronger,” Delle Donne said, choking up. “Thank you all for keeping me going.” Delle Donne won MVP awards in 2015 and 2019, the second of which came when she led the Washington Mystics to their lone WNBA championship. Delle Donne became the first player in league history to shoot more than 50% from the field, 40% from behind the 3-point line and 90% from the free-throw line. She started off her speech giving a shoutout to actor Larry David, who was in the audience. She told him that she hoped her speech was “pretty, pretty, pretty good,” using David’s signature line. Delle Donne was introduced to him before the ceremony by Rivers. Rivers has won 1,194 regular-season games as an NBA coach, the sixth most in league history. He was emotional while talking about his brother Grady, who inspired him to be a better player. Holdsclaw thanked all of her former teammates and coaches in her acceptance speech. She was best known for helping Tennessee win three

straight titles from 1996-98. Holdsclaw’s 1998 team was Tennessee’s first undefeated season at 39-0, and the Lady Vols also set an NCAA record for the most wins in a season at that time. Holdsclaw went on to have an 11-year WNBA career. She also thanked the 1996 Olympic team, saying she had posters of their players on her wall when she was in high school. That team helped start the Americans’ 30-year Olympic dominance that has seen the U.S. win eight straight gold medals. Few has been Gonzaga’s coach since 1999 and has led the team to the NCAA Tournament every year. He’s won numerous West Coast Conference championships and reached the NCAA title game twice. “What a crazy, surreal moment for me,” Few said. “The town I grew up in had a population of 1,500 people and had one stoplight. To be standing where I am today is absolutely mind boggling.” Crawford officiated more than 2,500 regular-season games in the NBA and nearly 400 more in the postseason — 50 of those in the NBA Finals — during his 39-year career. He said he first dreamed of officiating in the NBA when he was a teenager and did everything he could to make that possible. D’Antoni really came into his own as a player and coach in Italy before he returned to the NBA. He developed a fast-paced style with the Phoenix Suns led by fellow inductee Stoudemire.

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UNC fifth-year guard Trimble committing to Louisville after Colorado eligibility ruling The four-year Tar Heel got another year of eligibility The Associated Press LOUISVILLE, Ky. — UNC guard Seth Trimble is transferring to Louisville and taking advantage of the recent preliminary injunction from a Colorado judge giving student athletes who graduated from high school in 2022 a fifth season of eligibility for the upcoming year. ESPN reported last Wednesday that Trimble committed to Louisville, a social media post shared by the Cardinals. Trimble thanked UNC fans in an Instagram post for “the best four years anyone could ask for.” He wrote that he gave his all to represent the Tar Heels every day. “I’ve been considering returning to college the whole summer now, and Carolina was always in the running,” Trimble wrote. “But with a full roster at UNC, and other circumstances, I won’t be able to return home and will be transferring.” Trimble put himself into Tar Heels’ lore with a 3-pointer from right in front of the UNC bench, one that swished cleanly through the net with 0.4 seconds left, to lift the 14th-ranked Tar Heels past the fourth-ranked Blue Devils 71-68 in February. UNC athletic director Steve Newmark said they understand the difficult and complicated situation for everyone involved and called Trimble a true role model for his

SEAFORTH from page B1 while six wins may be the most in Hawks history, the team has its sights set higher than a .500 season. The team returns a solid core of contributors and should be well-positioned to build on last year’s success in 2025. Duncan Parker returns at

FIRST WEEK from page B1 Friendship in the home opener before falling on the road at Cardinal Gibbons in straight sets to end week one with a 2-1 mark. Next up for the Hawks is a road game at Ayden-Grifton, followed by three home games — Northwood, Hoggard and Cedar Ridge.

CHRIS SEWARD / AP PHOTO

UNC seniors Elijah Davis (6) and Seth Trimble (7) pose with teammates on Senior Night in March. four years with the Tar Heels. “The recent court decision in Colorado created an unusual situation for student-athletes who had completed their traditional four years of eligibility,” Newmark said. “The timing of the decision, the ongoing legal process and the circumstances surround-

ing our roster made that increasingly difficult to navigate.” New UNC coach Michael Malone said in a statement that Trimble will always be a Tar Heel even with the guard playing elsewhere for a season. “I have tremendous empathy for Seth because the tim-

ing of the court decision put him and our program in a difficult position as we constructed our roster,” Malone said. “None of that changes how we feel about Seth. He has represented Carolina the right way, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to get to know him and his family.”

“With a full roster at UNC, and other circumstances, I won’t be able to return home and will be transferring.”

quarterback for one more season. Parker threw for 2,604 yards on 57% passing last season, connecting on 29 touchdown passes against 12 interceptions. He was also Seaforth’s leading rusher, gaining 600 yards on the ground and scoring seven touchdowns, both for the second year in a row. He’ll have his top target back

in senior receiver Max Hinchman, who averaged more than 70 yards per game and topped 500 yards and five touchdowns for the second year in a row. While the team has to replace leading scorer Nick Gregory, who graduated, along with fellow co-captain Patrick Miller, there are seven Hawks playmakers who caught pass-

es last season returning to the team. On defense, Seaforth suffered losses in the defensive front and secondary but returns its top two tacklers at linebacker in Tyler Truesdale and Nolan Greiner. The Hawks open the season Friday night at home against Chapel Hill in a 7 p.m. kickoff.

Seaforth dropped last season’s opener to the Tigers 27-21, one of its two losses by less than a touchdown. Chapel Hill is also coming off a six-win season but must replace its quarterback and top three receivers. If Seaforth wants to build on its success, the move up would get a jump start with a win on opening night.

Unfortunately, Northwood, Jordan-Matthews and Chatham Central have combined to match Seaforth’s two wins on the season. J-M was swept in straight sets by Lee County and at Chatham Charter, then lost in four sets to Central Carolina. Next up are road tilts at Providence Grove, East Davidson and Chatham Central.

Chatham Central is 1-2, splitting a home and home with Northwood and dropping a 3-0 game to Chatham Charter. They return the home and home with a trip to Chatham Charter this week and also host Eastern Randolph, J-M and North Stokes. Northwood is 1-3. They won at home 3-1 over Chatham Central then lost the road rematch

3-2. In between, they suffered straight-set home losses to Seaforth and Lee County. This week, the Chargers host Carrboro and head to Seaforth. Chatham Charter is 2-2 on the season, sweeping its county rivals J-M and Chatham Central in straight sets while losing twin 3-1 matches in a home and home with Providence Grove.

This week the Knights have three home games, against Central Carolina, Chatham Central and River Mill. Woods Charter is 1-1, opening with a sweep of Discovery and then dropping a five-set match to Research Triangle. This week brings home games against Vance Charter and Eno River, as well as a trip to Southern Wake.

Local Service Directory

Seth Trimble

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Logano holds off Briscoe to win Cup Series race at Richmond The Team Penske driver is getting hot as the season winds down

“Don’t let the boys get hot.”

By Nate Ryan The Associated Press

Joey Logano

RICHMOND, Va. — Joey Logano delivered a warning to his NASCAR rivals after his victory Saturday at Richmond Raceway. “Don’t let the boys get hot,” the driver of Team Penske’s No. 22 Ford said after fending off a late charge by Chase Briscoe to earn his 39th career win by 0.392 seconds. “We’re pretty strong right now. It’s awesome to see the speed in the 22 again.” After falling as low as 20th in the points standings at the season’s halfway mark, the three-time Cup Series champion is surging toward the NASCAR Chase. Two races remain until the title run featuring the top 16 drivers. With two victories in the past four races (after only one win in his previous 56 starts), Logano has jumped to ninth in the points standings

en’t been able to capitalize on the win. We’ve been so close, but it was sweet redemption today.” Logano capitalized on the final strategy call by Wolfe, who pitted his driver just after taking the lead from Briscoe with 39 laps remaining. Logano needed only 15 laps to retake the lead from Christopher Bell, who was trying to stretch his tires to the finish on Richmond’s abrasive surface over the last 57 laps. Briscoe led a race-high 171 of 400 laps. He had a best finish of 11th in nine previous starts at Richmond, one of only three active tracks where he had yet to score a top 10. After qualifying second, he passed pole-sitter Ryan Blaney on the first lap to lead the first lap of his career on the 0.75-mile oval. “This place has been a real struggle to me,” said Briscoe, who clinched a spot in the Chase with

ROBERT SIMMONS / AP PHOTO

Joey Logano enters Victory Lane after winning the Cook Out 400 on Saturday in Richmond, Virginia. and established himself as a championship contender again. It’s no surprise given that it’s the 2026 season. Since 2014, Logano has either won the Cup title or advanced to the championship round in every even-numbered year, and he typically does it with a late-season spree. In his last title run, the 36-year-old won three of the final 10 races.

“We’ve seen it a lot over the years once he gets that confidence,” crew chief Paul Wolfe said. “He’s very good under pressure situations.” Logano scored his third Richmond win but his first in nine years at the track. “Gosh, it was a great car,” he said. “We’ve had a great car here the last five races, and we hav-

his sixth top 10 in the past seven races. “To get close and not get it done is so frustrating. We had a great points night, but just frustrating to say the least to have one slip away like that at the end.” Austin Cindric finished third and credited his teammate Logano with providing the advice that helped him score his best result since an April 2025 win at Talladega Superspeedway. “This is a racetrack that I feel like Joey Logano could finish top five in my rental car,” said Cindric. “It’s a place where I study him so much.” Denny Hamlin took fourth, followed by Chase Elliott, who notched his first top five since winning at Texas Motor Speedway three months ago. In an emotional ceremony, Richmond Raceway dedicated the grandstand seats where Hamlin’s parents sat for years watching NASCAR races long before their son became a 64-time winner in the Cup Series. Hamlin’s father, Dennis, died in a house fire last December. The track’s tribute was among the highlights of a homecoming weekend for Hamlin, who grew up about 20 minutes from the track. “It’s really the time I get to see my brother and sister that still live up here,” said Hamlin, who lives in the Charlotte area. “I’ve got lots of high school friends that have their own campsite here. It will be amazing if they don’t get arrested.”

ROBERT SIMMONS / AP PHOTO

Team Penske driver Joey Logano crosses the finish line to win Saturday’s Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway.

Allen, Moore show signs of bringing back big-play dimension to Bills offense The former Panthers playmaker is ready to be the go-to guy By John Wawrow The Associated Press ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — After months of seeking to develop an on-field connection with receiver DJ Moore during the Buffalo Bills spring practices, Josh Allen concluded he might be the one holding up the process. Too often, Allen realized he was doing too much in attempting to impress the newly acquired veteran by aiming or even forcing the ball Moore’s way. So on the first day of training camp, Allen informed Moore about trying a different approach. “I felt myself trying to be perfect when I’m throwing to him,” Allen said. “So I walked to him and said, ‘I’m just going to throw it. I’m just going to pick a spot and let it go. I’m not going to aim it anymore,’” he added. “And I feel once I said that, things kind of clicked for us.” The revelation and the duo’s newfound rapport was no more evident than during a team drill on the fifth day of camp.

Allen goes deep to Moore With time in the pocket, Allen glanced to his left in seeing Moore running at full speed and gaining a sliver of separation against three of Buffalo’s best defenders. Without hesitation, Allen heaved a spiral that Moore brought in over his shoulder with two outstretched hands and without breaking stride before tumbling to the turf for a would-be 60-yard touchdown. Allen called it “one of the better or more impressive catches and throws that I’ve made.” His only regret was that it didn’t happen during an actual game. Moore chalked it up to reflecting a new level of trust with Allen. “My confidence is high, regardless,” Moore said. “Now I just know he’s going to let it rip, and I just got to be there at a certain spot.” With one crowd-buzzing moment, the play represented why the Bills acquired Moore in trading a second-round pick to Chicago in March. And it also signaled what may well be the return of the big-play dimension Buffalo’s offense has lacked in the two seasons since Stefon Diggs’ departure. However much the Bills bought into the so-called “everybody

eats” spread-the-ball approach to the passing game minus Diggs, Moore’s addition places him at the head of the table. Departure from “everybody eats” approach First-year head coach Joe Brady avoided the suggestion of Moore representing a philosophical departure from the group of receivers he oversaw over the past two seasons as Buffalo’s coordinator. And yet, Brady acknowledged Moore bringing a new dimension to the offense. “There’s a reason we wanted him,” Brady said in detailing Moore’s speed, route-running technique and leadership. “Look, it’s training camp, right? We haven’t played a damn game yet. But you can feel him out there on the football field.” Though older by NFL receiver standards, the 29-year-old Moore has an accomplished resume entering his ninth season. He’s topped 1,100 yards receiving four times, including a career-best 1,364 yards and eight touchdowns in 2023. Moore spent his first five seasons in Carolina and is reunited with Brady, who was the Panthers offensive coordinator from 2020-21.

ADRIAN KRAUS / AP PHOTO

Buffalo Bills wide receiver DJ Moore walks off the field after practice at training camp. “Being here in Buffalo is definitely a new start,” Moore said. “I don’t really worry about expectations. I just go out there and be me each and every day and try to get better and better.” Age doesn’t appear to have slowed Moore, defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard noticed. “He’s bigger than you think he is. He’s stronger. He’s more explosive than you think,” Leonhard said. “You see it live and you’re like, ‘Wow, that’s why he’s so hard to tackle,’ or, ‘That’s why he’s always creating separation.’” Bills lacked proven deep threat A lack of separation and having a bona fide deep threat led to a sag in Buffalo passing attack. Though productive, the Bills leaned more on completing short passes and relying on receivers to break tackles. From 2020 to 2023, the Bills ranked no worse than seventh in the NFL with an average completion of 6.5 yards or

“Now I just know he’s going to let it rip, and I just got to be there at a certain spot.” D.J. Moore on Josh Allen longer beyond the line of scrimmage. Over the past three years, the Bills have ranked in the bottom half of the league with a sub-6-yard average. Allen’s numbers dropped, too. After averaging 4,385 yards passing from 2020-’24, he’s down to 3,700 over the past two years. It’s no wonder why Allen placed an emphasis on trying to impress Moore from the beginning, and realizing he doesn’t have to be perfect with each attempt. How imperfect, Allen was asked. “Pretty imperfect,” he answered. “(Moore) can erase a lot of mistakes.”

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

6 college coaches under most pressure entering 2026 season UNC’s Bill Belichick is one of three ACC coaches on the list

$270M

By Maura Carey The Associated Press PATIENCE FOR poor performance is a rarity in college football, and that’s only become more clear in recent years. Eight Power Four coaches were jobless by November in 2025, and 15 Bowl Subdivision coaches were fired throughout the season, totaling a record $270 million in buyout packages. As the 2026 season arrives, here are six coaches entering the fall under the most pressure for instant results. Mike Norvell Florida State

Florida State peaked too early last season with a 31-17 Week 1 upset of Alabama and two blowouts against East Texas A&M and Kent State, cruising to a 3-0 start. And then things got shaky for the Seminoles, winning just two of their final nine games. Coach Mike Norvell is just above .500 in his six years at FSU (38-34). Thirteen of those wins came during the Noles’ playoff run in 2023. Since then, FSU has landed in the win column just seven times and finished bottom five in the ACC in back-to-back years — leaving Norvell in the win-now bucket. Bill Belichick

UNC

Bill Belichick arrived at UNC as a first-time college

Total amount of buyouts for the 15 FBS coaches fired last year

CHRIS SEWARD / AP PHOTO

UNC head coach Bill Belichick coaches from the sidelines against Duke. coach who had won six Super Bowls with the New England Patriots, but the hyped hiring fell flat in Year 1. The Tar Heels had 70 new players while ending up with more double-digit losses (five) than total wins (four) and missing a bowl for the first time since 2018, and there were multiple helpings of unwanted off-field headlines too. Belichick enters this year with 60 new players in another roster overhaul. The Tar Heels are picked to finish 15th in the 17-team Atlantic Coast Conference and have a tougher schedule in Year 2, including home games against Notre Dame and preseason ACC favorite Miami. Another off-field issue hit before camp: General manager Michael Lombardi is on

leave as the subject of a school investigation. Belichick originally signed a five-year, $50 million contract paying him $10 million in base and supplemental pay each year, though only the first three years were guaranteed. That means the school would owe the 74-year-old Belichick roughly one year’s pay if it decided to move on after the season. Shane Beamer

South Carolina

Shane Beamer’s fifth year at South Carolina didn’t quite go to plan, with the Gamecocks finishing 4-8 and 15th (1-7) in the SEC. South Carolina’s stint in the AP Top 25 was short-lived, entering the season at No. 13 in the preseason poll and falling out of the rankings entirely after a Week 3 loss to Vanderbilt. The Gamecocks lost six of their final eight games. Luke Fickell

Wisconsin

It’s no secret Wisconsin’s Luke Fickell is back on the hot seat — he acknowledged it himself at Big Ten media days. A 4-8 record in 2025 was Wisconsin’s second straight losing season for the first time since

the early 1990s. The Badgers reached lows they hadn’t seen since the ’70s last season with shutout losses against Iowa and Ohio State in back-to-back weeks. Fickell hasn’t been able to replicate the level of success he had in Cincinnati yet, posting a 17-21 record. Bill O’Brien

Boston College

After leading Boston College to a 7-6 record and Pinstripe Bowl appearance his first season, the Eagles regressed in 2025, finishing with a 2-10 record and ahead of only Syracuse in the ACC. Boston College’s two wins came in the first and last weeks of the season against Fordham and Syracuse, sandwiching 10 straight losses. The sharp decline after an encouraging first season has left little margin for error heading into Year 3. Mike Locksley Maryland

Maryland’s Mike Locksley remains squarely on the hot seat after nearly identical seasons in 2024 and 2025, finishing 4-8 overall and 1-8 in Big Ten play. In eight seasons, Locksley is 37-49 for the Terps, and the best years in the stretch were back-to-back 8-5 seasons in 2022 and again in 2023, when Maryland won its third bowl game in as many years. Locksley said the tough days are behind the program, looking forward to ramping up this season with what he described as one of the most talented rosters during his time at Maryland.

Top transfers in college football include plenty of guys who followed coaches A look at the top players in new locations in 2026 By Steve Megargee The Associated Press SOME OF THIS season’s top college football transfers simply followed their coaches from one school to another. For instance, former North Texas coach Eric Morris took over Oklahoma State and now has 21 of his former Mean Green players. That list includes Drew Mestemaker, who threw for a Bowl Subdivision-leading 4,379 yards a year ago. “I knew the whole time, Coach Morris was going to be a huge factor,” Mestemaker told reporters regarding the choice of his new school. “Wherever he went, that was probably going to be where I was going.” Mestemaker’s process wasn’t unusual. John Henry Daley, who recorded 11½ sacks at Utah last season, accompanied coach Kyle Whittingham to Michigan. New Penn State coach Matt Campbell’s roster features about two dozen of his former Iowa State players, including quarterback Rocco Becht. “At the end of the day, I think my main decision was just to come in to play for Matt Campbell my final year, just because I had built relationships with a bunch of the guys here already,” Becht said. “I didn’t want to ruin any of those. A great coaching staff was brought here, and I wanted to be a part of that at a great university.” Becht arrives at Penn State after throwing for 9,274 yards and 64 touchdowns with 27 interceptions at Iowa State as a three-year starter. It’s no surprise that so many transfers are making this type of choice. They only need to look at Indiana’s remarkable turnaround for evidence this can work. Curt Cignetti brought 13

of his former James Madison players with him after taking over at Indiana. They helped set the tone for Indiana’s extraordinary turnaround that included earning a College Football Playoff berth in 2024 and winning a national title last season. These transfers believe familiarity with their longtime coaches will help them in their new situations. “You know what you get with Coach Whittingham,” Daley said. “You know that you get discipline. You know that you get hard work. We expect to win games. That’s something that I love. He’s got a very old-school mindset in that. We’re going to come in, we’re going to attack every single day, and we’re going to be tough. It’s not always going to be easy, but it’s going to be worth it. That’s something I love that you don’t find everywhere. And that’s something I wanted to be a part of.” Here’s a rundown of some other transfers who should make a major impact this season (former schools listed below). Texas WR Cam Coleman Auburn

Coleman was the nation’s No. 3 overall prospect in his high school class. He caught 93 passes for 1,306 yards and 13 touchdowns in two seasons at Auburn. Coleman gained attention on social media, making a phenomenal catch in practice. Indiana QB Josh Hoover

TCU

Hoover takes over for Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, who led Indiana to a national title before becoming the first overall pick in the draft. Hoover, a three-year starter at TCU, has thrown for 9,629 yards and 71 touchdowns with 33 interceptions. Hoover will be throwing to former

SIDELINE REPORT MLB

Báez becomes first player to homer in first 3 at-bats in majors Chicago Joshua Báez became the first player to hit three home runs in his first three at-bats in the major leagues, leading the St. Louis Cardinals to an 8-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs. The 23-year-old left fielder, called up from Triple-A Memphis earlier in the day, hit the first pitch he saw into the Wrigley Field bleachers and then homered in his next two at-bats. He also drove in five runs.

BOXING

Puerto Rican boxer Colón dies 11 years after sustaining brain damage in ring Puerto Rican fighter Prichard Colón died at 33, 11 years after he sustained brain damage in his only loss. Colón suffered a brain bleed in a light-middleweight fight against Terrel Williams in Fairfax, Virginia, in October 2015. Colón underwent surgery to relieve pressure on his brain, and the WBC said he sustained “irreversible neurological damage” because of what the governing body described as “severe, illegal blows to the back of the head.” He never fought again and was later pictured in a wheelchair.

NBA

Judge sides with MSG against Oakley, says former Knick couldn’t prove assault at game New York A judge sided with Madison Square Garden in its lengthy legal battle with Charles Oakley, saying the former New York Knicks All-Star had not proven he was assaulted when he was removed from a game he attended in 2017. Oakley was handcuffed and arrested after an altercation with security while sitting near owner James Dolan. Oakley initially brought a number of claims against MSG that were dismissed in February 2020. Only Oakley’s assault-and-battery claim remained.

NCAA BASEBALL

Bertman, LSU’s 5-time national title-winning baseball coach, dead at 88

MARTA LAVANDIER / AP PHOTO

Miami quarterback Darian Mensah speaks following a team practice session. Michigan State receiver Nick Marsh and will be handing the ball off to ex-Boston College running back Turbo Richard. LSU QB Sam Leavitt Arizona State

Leavitt helped Arizona State earn a playoff berth in 2024 before a foot injury limited him to seven games last season. Leavitt, who began his career at Michigan State, has completed 61.4% of his career passes for 4,652 yards with 36 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He also has rushed for 816 yards and 10 touchdowns. Leavitt will be working behind a line that includes Jordan Seaton, a former five-star recruit who started 22 games at left tackle for Colorado the last two seasons. Miami QB Darian Mensah

in 2024. Mensah has been productive at each of his stops and has completed 66.5% of his career passes. He threw for 3,973 yards with 34 touchdowns and just six interceptions at Duke after accumulating 2,723 yards passing with 22 touchdowns and six interceptions at Tulane. Oregon S Koi Perich

Stanley “Skip” Bertman, who turned LSU’s baseball program into a powerhouse that won five national championships between 1991 and 2000, died at age 88. The College Baseball Hall of Famer’s legacy includes Alex Box Stadium, which opened in 2009 and holds about 11,000 spectators. The field at the stadium is named for Bertman, as is the College Baseball Foundation’s annual award for the nation’s top coach. Bertman retired from coaching in 2001 with a record of 870-330-3 in 18 seasons.

Minnesota

UFC

Perich was first-team all-Big Ten in 2024 and second-team last season. He had 82 tackles for Minnesota a year ago and also contributed on offense and special teams. In 2024, Perich became the first Bowl Subdivision freshman since 1976 to intercept five passes while also collecting over 100 punt return yards and 100 kick return yards.

Makhachev sets UFC record for consecutive wins in welterweight title defense

BYU LB Cade Uluave

Duke

Cal

After leading Duke to an Atlantic Coast Conference title, Mensah entered the portal and joined a conference rival that played for the national championship last season. This is Mensah’s third school in as many years, as he played for Tulane

Uluave comes to BYU after compiling 100 tackles — 12 for loss at Cal last season. He was first-team all-ACC. Uluave totaled 237 tackles — 21½ for loss — to go along with six sacks and three interceptions in three seasons at Cal.

Philadelphia Islam Makhachev sets a UFC record with his 17th straight victory, defeating Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision at UFC 330. Makhachev, who hasn’t lost since 2015, won the welterweight crown in 2025 and successfully defended it for the first time. Mackenzie Dern also defended her 115-pound title with a unanimous decision over Gillian Robertson. Edson Barboza retired after a loss to Esteban Ribovics, ending a career that began in 2009. UFC returned to Philadelphia for the first time since 2019.

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entertainment this week in history American Civil War ends, Salad Bowl strike begins, Paris liberated

1932: Amelia Earhart embarked on a 19-hour flight from Los Angeles to Newark, New Jersey, making her the first woman to fly solo, nonstop, from coast to coast. 1992: Hurricane Andrew smashed into Florida; the storm resulted in 65 deaths and caused more than $26 billion in damage across Florida, Louisiana and the Bahamas.

The Associated Press AUG. 20 1858: Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution was first published in the “Journal of the Proceedings of the Linnean Society.” 1862: The New York Tribune published an open letter by editor Horace Greeley calling on President Abraham Lincoln to take more aggressive measures to free enslaved people and end the South’s rebellion. 1866: President Andrew Johnson declared the official end of the Civil War. AUG. 21 1831: Nat Turner launched a violent slave rebellion in Virginia, resulting in the deaths of at least 55 white people; scores of black people were killed in retribution after the rebellion, and Turner was later executed. 1858: The first of seven debates took place between Illinois senatorial contenders Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas. 1911: Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris. (It was recovered two years later in Italy.) AUG. 22 1791: The Haitian Revolution began as enslaved people of Saint-Domingue rose up against French colonizers. 1851: The schooner America outraced more than a dozen British vessels off the English coast to win a trophy that

AUG. 25 OSWALD W. BRIERLY / NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM, GREENWICH VIA WIKIPEDIA

On Aug. 22, 1851, the schooner America defeated more than a dozen British vessels in a race off the English coast. came to be known as the America’s Cup. 1910: Japan annexed Korea, which remained under Japanese control until the end of World War II. AUG. 23 1305: Scottish rebel leader Sir William Wallace was executed by the English for treason. 1775: Britain’s King George III proclaimed the American colonies to be in a state of “open and avowed rebellion.” 1970: The Salad Bowl strike began, organized by farm labor leader Cesar Chavez; between 5,000 and 10,000 laborers walked off the job, leading to the largest farmworker strike in U.S. history. AUG. 24 1814: During the War of 1812, British forces invaded Washington, D.C., setting fire to the still-under-construction Capitol and the White House, as well as other public buildings.

1916: President Woodrow Wilson signed the National Park Service Organic Act, establishing the National Park Service as an agency of the U.S. Department of the Interior to maintain the country’s natural and historic wonders and “leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.” 1944: Paris was liberated by Allied forces after four years of Nazi occupation during World War II. 1948: In the House Un-American Activities Committee’s first televised congressional hearing, Alger Hiss denied charges by Whittaker Chambers that Hiss was a communist involved in espionage. AUG. 26 1939: The first televised Major League Baseball games were broadcast on experimental station W2XBS: a doubleheader between the Cincinnati Reds and the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field. 1944: French Gen. Charles de Gaulle braved the threat of German snipers as he led a victory march in Paris, which had just been liberated by the Allies from Nazi occupation. 1958: Alaskans went to the polls to overwhelmingly vote in favor of statehood.

PETER J. CARROLL / AP PHOTO

On Aug. 26, 1944, thousands packed Paris to celebrate the city’s liberation from Nazi occupation as Gen. Charles de Gaulle led a victory parade.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

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‘Comes in Waves,’ new Simon album, chronicles journey of love, loss For fans of the artist herself and pop torch singers

“Comes In Waves” by Carly Simon is the artist’s first studio album since 2009.

By Hillel Italie The Associated Press

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ON HER FIRST album with original songs in nearly 20 years, Carly Simon is still working on some old demons and still determined to outlast them. “Maybe I never loved you / But anyway, I thought I did / I married you, we had a kid,” she sings in a ballad you could imagine Simon addressing to her ex-husband, James Taylor. “And maybe you never loved me / Although God knows you said you did.” Simon announced last month that she had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease while recording “Comes in Waves” and that she also had surgery to remove a cancerous skin growth. But this album feels less like an ending than a continuation of themes and events that have inspired and defined her from early in her career — yearning, discontent, desire, uncertainty, her marriage to Taylor and the loss of her father, the publisher Rich-

IRIS RECORDS VIA AP

ard Simon, who died when Carly was in her teens. “Howl” is the album’s lead track, first single and table setter — a midtempo rocker addressed to a heartbroken friend (or to herself?) whom Simon urges to “Get it out of your system / Bang your fists and beat your brow.” The other songs unfold as if to dramatize the album’s title, as Simon’s mood shifts from defiance to regret to melancholy to resolve and a willingness to try

again, a cycle cushioned (to a fault) by the literal-minded production and arrangements of David Spencer, Frank Filipetti and son Ben Taylor, among others. “Comes in Waves” includes a remaster of Simon’s decades-old political song “Share the End,” and elsewhere echoes moments from her previous records. “Maybe I Never Loved You,” inspired by the late playwright Tim Mayer, feels like Simon’s version of “I Get Along Without

You Very Well (Except Sometimes),” the Hoagy Carmichael standard she covered on her 1981 “Torch” album. “The Father-Daughter Dance” suggests the pain of a ballad about her father from the early 1970s, “Embrace Me, You Child.” Simon also teases courtship (“Peaches”); celebrates parenthood (“Mother of Pearl,” a tribute to daughter and “child of divorce” Sally Taylor); and savors life’s “wild ride” (“Love the Way I Do”). The catchiest song is by a departed friend, the late Judy Belushi, widow of comedian John Belushi: “Four in the Morning” has a close-up, tiptoeing pace fitting for lyrics about an unhappy wife who slips away from her snoring husband. Simon, who turned 83 this year, doesn’t hit all the notes of her best known records, but she has lost none of her gifts for taking hold of a melody and putting her whole self into the words. Her musical journey has always been personal, and longtime Simon fans are the most likely to enjoy catching up with her. Others may feel like they had to be there.

Garfield finds wonder in everyday life in ‘The Magic Faraway Tree’ Author Enid Blyton’s children’s books inspired the film By Lizzie Knight The Associated Press

CJ RIVERA / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Nicolas Brown, from left, director Ben Gregor, Claire Foy and Andrew Garfield attend “The Magic Faraway Tree” special screening at Regal Union Square in New York.

solutions

ANDREW GARFIELD wants audiences to look up from their phones and remember that there is still plenty of magic in the world around them. That idea drew the two-time Oscar nominee to “The Magic Faraway Tree,” a family adventure about Tim, a stay-at-home father whose family is forced to reconsider life after his wife, Polly, quits her job. They move to the countryside, where their children discover the magical Faraway Tree and its ever-changing worlds, sending the family into a series of fantastical adventures. The film, based on Enid Blyton’s children’s books, arrives in U.S. theaters Friday. For Garfield, the story’s themes of nature, imagination and community feel especially timely as technology increasingly shapes everyday life. “I think people are craving connection and community and a kind of reconnection to the earth and to each other,” he said.

“I really just adore his sense of whimsy and heartfulness and magic and joy. I felt very, very passionate about it.” Andrew Garfield Garfield said he became passionate about the project after reading Simon Farnaby’s screenplay. “I really just adore his sense of whimsy and heartfulness and magic and joy,” he said. “I felt very, very passionate about it.” Tim’s journey reflects the film’s larger ideas about finding wonder outside the routine and distractions of modern life. For Garfield, that sense of wonder extends beyond fantasy. “I think it’s all around us,” he said. “There are so many things to be in awe of on this planet.” The film, he said, is ultimately about recognizing that “there’s magic in the ordinary” as well as in the extraordinary. Garfield, whose credits include playing Spider-Man, says he is drawn to roles with an element of play, community and the natural world. He focuses on

“anything that keeps me awake to the remembering of the connection that we have to each other, the connection we have to nature, how we are all interconnected,” he said. Garfield grew up reading Enid Blyton’s “The Famous Five” with his brother but did not read “The Faraway Tree” series as a child. His mother introduced him to another beloved literary adventurer: Bilbo Baggins, the hero of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit.” “Any underdog story, really, those are the ones that get me,” Garfield said. Another childhood escape was the video store. Garfield remembers being fascinated by the rows of VHS tapes and the possibilities behind their covers. The habit has survived in a new form in adulthood: spending an evening browsing streaming services without picking anything, enjoying the feeling of looking “into the windows of all these imaginary worlds.” That may help explain why Garfield welcomes the resurgence of VHS and other analog technology among younger audiences. “I dig that,” he said. “The regression to analog is looking good to me.”

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famous birthdays this week Newton native Tori Amos turns 63, Tom Ridge turns 81, Branford Marsalis is 66 The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week. AUG. 20 Boxing promoter Don King is 95. Former U.S. senator and diplomat George Mitchell is 93. Rock singer Robert Plant is 78. Country singer Rudy Gatlin is 74. Singer-songwriter John Hiatt is 74. Actor-director Peter Horton is 73. Actor Joan Allen is 70. NBC anchor Al Roker is 72.

MARK HUMPHREY / AP PHOTO

Musician and singer Tori Amos turns 63 Saturday.

AUG. 21 Rock and Roll Hall of Famer James Burton is 87. Singer Jackie DeShannon is 85. Film director Peter Weir is 82. Football Hall of Famer Willie Lanier is 81. Actor Loretta Devine is 77. Two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin is 72. Actor Kim Cattrall is 70. AUG. 22 Author Annie Proulx is 91. Baseball Hall of Famer Carl Yastrzemski is 87. Pro Football Hall of Fame coach Bill Parcells is 85. Writer-producer David Chase is 81. Rock singer Roland Orzabal (Tears For Fears) is 65. Singer Tori Amos is 63.

CHARLES SYKES / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Boxing promoter Don King turns 95 Thursday.

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Actor Vera Miles is 97. Actor Barbara Eden is 95. Ballerina Patricia McBride is 84. Singer-songwriter Linda Thompson is 79. Author and motivational speaker Rudy Ruettiger is 78. Actor Shelley Long is 77. Actor-singer Rick Springfield is 77.

Actor Tom Skerritt is 93. Former U.S. Poet Laureate Charles Wright is 91. Film director John Badham is 87. Baseball Hall of Famer Rollie Fingers is 80. Rock musician Gene Simmons (Kiss) is 77. Rock singer Rob Halford (Judas Priest) is 75. Musician Elvis Costello is 72. Film director Tim Burton is 68.

AUG. 24 Composer-musician Mason Williams is 88. R&B singer Marshall Thompson (The Chi-Lites) is 84. WWE co-founder Vince McMahon is 81. Author Paulo Coelho is 79. Actor Anne Archer is 79. Actor Steve Guttenberg is 68. Baseball Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. is 66.

AUG. 26 Former Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge is 81. R&B singer Valerie Simpson (Ashford & Simpson) is 80. Broadcast journalist Bill Whitaker is 75. Puzzle creator/editor Will Shortz is 74. Jazz musician Branford Marsalis is 66. Actor Macaulay Culkin is 46.

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

the stream

AMY HARRIS / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Weezer performs during the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California. The band will release its 20th studio album Friday.

‘Outer Banks,’ Anthony Hopkins’ classical album, Anne Hathaway’s 1st 2026 movie Weezer drops “The Gold Album” on Friday

zel Eyes.” It’s a follow-up to 2023’s “Gloria” — which features the sexy and sacrilegious “Unholy” collaboration with Kim Petras, the track that gave Smith their most recent Grammy win. This time around, Smith offers warm love songs. It’s a welcome change of pace from their previous heartbreak material.

The Associated Press THE FINAL season of “Outer Banks” and a new album from Anthony Hopkins (yes, Sir Anthony Hopkins) 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: Weezer’s 20th album, the survival horror game “The Sinking City 2” and “Mother Mary,” which kicked off Anne Hathaway’s incredibly prolific year in theaters.

SERIES TO STREAM

MOVIES TO STREAM Hathaway’s epic year at the movies (which is still going at full throttle with “The End of Oak Street” and the upcoming “Verity”) didn’t start with “The Devil Wears Prada 2” or “The Odyssey” but with “Mother Mary,” David Lowery’s experimental film about a pop star (Hathaway) and her estranged designer (Michaela Coel). In his review for the AP, Film Writer Jake Coyle called it “a fitfully spellbinding chamber drama that grows more operatic with every stitch,” adding, “Hathaway makes not just a believable pop star but an indelible portrait of an artist’s ego in extremes.” But, Coyle wrote, “the movie belongs to Coel … ‘Mother Mary’ is the story of an exorcism, and she’s the exorcist.” It debuts on HBO Max on Friday. Coel also stars in one of the year’s best two-handers, “The Christophers,” which arrives on Hulu on Saturday. Written by Ed Solomon and directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film is a kind of heist movie in disguise, in which a pair of wannabe heirs (James Corden and Jessica Gunning) hire a restoration specialist and sometimes forger (Coel) to covertly finish a series of paintings by their famous father Julian Sklar (Ian McKellen). In her review, AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr wrote that it was “a meditation on art, legacy, creativity and the

VICTORIA WILL / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Michaela Coel, pictured in April in New York, stars in “The Christophers.” oh-so-touchy subject of who has the right to critique,” with sharp performances from all. And finally, it’s a Zahn family affair in “She Dances,” starring Steve Zahn and his daughter Audrey as a father and daughter reconnecting after tragedy on the way to a dance competition. It’s also a “Reality Bites” reunion with Ethan Hawke. Directed by Rick Gomez, the film received warm reviews out of the Tribeca Film Festival and is set to debut on Peacock on Friday. MUSIC TO STREAM Academy Award winner Hopkins will release his debut album, “Life Is a Dream,” Friday via Decca Records. Conducted by Gustavo Dudamel, performed by the Philharmonia Orchestra and recorded at London’s Alexandra Palace in April, the album is a 12-track collection of classical compositions crafted over six decades. “My first love, or vocation really, is music,” the 88-year-old actor told the AP earlier this month. The generational talent picked up piano at 4 and wrote his first

The first two episodes of Season 2 of “Average Joe” are streaming now on Paramount+. The action-comedy stars Deon Cole as a plumber in Pittsburgh whose life becomes complicated — and dangerous — when he learns that his dad, who recently died, owes $10 million and a car to the Russian mob. Joe can’t catch a break in the new season either. Now in Cape Town, Joe once again finds himself over his head. “Outer Banks” kicks off its fifth and final season Thursday on Netflix. The show follows a group of friends from working-class families in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. They call themselves “Pogues,” a nod to the pogy, a small baitfish at the bottom of the food chain with strong survival instincts. We begin the season with the Pogues grieving the death of one of their own. They set out on both a treasure hunt and a quest for revenge. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

SCOTT A. GARFITT / INVISION / AP PHOTO

From left, Isaura Barbe-Brown, Anne Hathaway, director David Lowery, Michaela Coel and Atheena Frizzell pose for photographers upon arrival at a London screening of the film “Mother Mary” on April 23. piece, a waltz, in 1960. He was 22 at the time. “Life Is a Dream” reflects his life and childhood in Wales — possessing what he describes as a “melancholy and sadness” but, ultimately, beauty. Power pop-punk band Weezer will release their landmark 20th album on Friday. It’s self-titled, but no doubt fans will refer to it as “the Gold Al-

bum,” continuing in their tradition of color-identified records. The single “We Might as Well Be Strangers” is a standout, featuring the idiosyncratic vocals of Karly Hartzman, lead singer of the indie rock group Wednesday. Also on Friday: English singer-songwriter Sam Smith will release their fifth album, “Ha-

It has taken longer than expected for “The Sinking City 2” to make it out of development. Then again, it comes from Ukraine’s Frogwares studio, and it isn’t easy to get a game out the door with a war going on. The new survival horror game is based on H.P. Lovecraft’s fiction, so be prepared to fight plenty of scaly, squishy, many-tentacled monsters as you explore a flooded Massachusetts town in the 1920s. Frogwares found a cult audience with 2019’s “The Sinking City” after building a reputation for more cerebral challenges with its Sherlock Holmes games. If you like your horror cosmic, the portal is open on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S and PC.

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 26 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

DUPLINJOURNAL.COM

Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

the

BRIEF this week

Firearm burglary suspects charged Wallace Two men have been charged following a July investigation into the theft of firearms from a Wallace-area home, according to the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded July 19 to a reported breaking and entering and larceny of firearms. Investigators with the sheriff’s office and Wallace Police Department later developed evidence leading to the arrests. On July 26, deputies arrested Xzavoion Brown, 18, of Warsaw, and Coarey Smith Jr., 19, of Beulaville. Both were charged with felony breaking and entering, felony larceny after breaking and entering, 11 felony counts of larceny of a firearm and felony conspiracy. Both men were jailed without bond. 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.

Traffic stop nets drug charges Beulaville A Chapel Hill man was arrested Aug. 4 after police seized approximately 429 grams of marijuana during a traffic stop on N.C. 24 near Sandlin Road. According to Beulaville Police, officers searched the vehicle after the stop and arrested Kamrone Whiting. Whiting was charged with possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a Schedule VI controlled substance, manufacturing marijuana, felony possession of a Schedule VI controlled substance, maintaining a vehicle for controlled substances, possession of marijuana paraphernalia, driving while license revoked, a window-tint violation and following too closely. Police said Whiting was held without bond because of other pending felony charges and bonds. He was also on active probation at the time of his arrest.

ABC sues FCC over challenge to broadcast licenses ABC has filed a lawsuit against the FCC, alleging violation of its First Amendment rights. Tuesday’s lawsuit was a sharp escalation of the network’s battle against what it sees as the administration’s efforts to police its content. FCC Chair Brendan Carr has defended his agency’s actions, saying broadcasters have a duty to “operate in the public interest.” The FCC launched a review of eight ABC local broadcast licenses well before they expire. The order came after a joke by ABC host Jimmy Kimmel infuriated President Donald Trump.

$2.00

REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL.

Back to school Bouncy houses provided a variety of activities, including slides and basketball, for kids to enjoy Saturday at the Duplin County Partnership for Children’s Back to School Community Day in Kenansville. For more, turn to page A6.

Magnolia pauses medical first responder dispatches amid staffing shortage The temporary suspension affects medical first responder dispatches but does not impact the department’s ability to respond to fire emergencies By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal THE MAGNOLIA Fire Department is temporarily suspending medical first responder dispatches as new Fire Chief Kevin Williams works to rebuild staffing and bring the department back into compliance. Williams took over as fire chief Aug. 11 and is working with the State Fire Marshal’s Office to bring the department back into compliance follow-

ing a broader operational crisis. The Magnolia Fire Department was classified as noncompliant by the State Fire Marshal’s Office after its membership numbers fell below the state-required minimum of 15 volunteer members. The staffing shortage followed an internal crisis earlier in the year when a large number of members “walked out and quit,” leaving the department unable to consistently respond to emergencies. Williams said the department

“Last month we actually had 14 first responder calls, and they missed nine of them.” Kevin Williams, fire chief was failing to answer fire calls, with the state expressing particular concern over missed structure fire calls. The department also had not provided required regulatory records, specifically missing pump records, training records and reports on structure fires. Williams emphasized that the department had to address

Rose Hill board explores housing opportunities The town is applying for a $950,000 grant to help homeowners make improvements By Mark Grady For Duplin Journal ROSE HILL — The Rose Hill Board of Commissioners heard two presentations during their Aug. 11 meeting regarding opportunities to build new homes or repair existing ones for homeowners with limited incomes in town. The first presentation came in the form of the first of two public hearings required to apply for a new Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) for the town. The grant, which would be new, would total $950,000. Work is going on now

on homes in Rose Hill from a CDBG awarded to the town last year. Tammy Jones of Adams Company, who was awarded a contract by the town to act as administrator for both CDBG projects, told the board the new grant comes from $12 million provided by state funding for these grants across the state. She said the grant requires the funds be used for housing and any related projects. “Housing is a must, but you can do infrastructure as long as it’s related to something with that housing, like hooking up water if they are on a well or septic tank,” Jones said. According to Jones, the funds apply to replacing a dilapidated house or making needed repairs to an existing house. There See ROSE HILL, page A3

“You can do infrastructure as long as it’s related to something with that housing, like hooking up water if they are on a well or septic tank.” Tammy Jones, Adams Company

these issues immediately to protect the community’s safety and financial well-being, noting that if the department failed or lost its rating, homeowners insurance for town residents would “go out of the roof.” As of the August meeting, the department had rebounded to between 22 and 25 members and was working to submit all missing documentation by Aug. 23 to move from “noncompliance” into a formal six-month probationary period. During this time, the department must demonstrate sustained stability and operational consistency to be fully cleared by the state. The chief noted that bringing the department back into compliance is critical to protecting residents from significantly higher homeowners insurance premiums. The staffing shortage contributed to a high rate of missed medical calls in July. “Last month we actually had 14 first responder calls, and they missed nine of them,” Williams explained. See SHORTAGE, page A2

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THURSDAY

8.20.26 #139

AirPark Phase 1 nears close The clearing for Phase 2 is set to start Aug. 20 By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal

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PHASE 1 of the AirPark project is finishing the last few items, according to Executive Director Scotty Summerlin. “The new project manager is working diligently to address the punchlist of items brought up at our last meeting,” Summerlin said. “Parrish and Partners is confident that the project will be completely closed in September.” The board discussed lighting options and the need to make everything match aesthetically. Summerlin confirmed that $150,000 was set aside in the budget for lighting as they got to it in the project. The board discussed the joint project with the airport to build a maintenance shop and why the overall project cost has increased. “The county requires an engineer to get involved, and that has caused the overall project to go over budget,” Board Chairman Charlie Farrior said. Summerlin gave an update concerning Phase 2 of the Air-

“We need to celebrate getting to the place of being able to attract interest and that we have a product to show for it.” Charlie Farrior, board chairman Park project. “We have a signed contract for F&S to clear and grime land off Bowden Road starting Aug. 20. The project has a timeline of 120 days, which makes it due to complete around Christmas,” Summerlin said. Summerlin also shared the need for a contract for ditch repair. He shared that it would go out for bids this month, and he hoped to have two options for the board to consider in September. “The Forestry Service has started framing for its Regional Center, and all the lighting will be made to match the rest of the area,” Summerlin told the board. While short-term houses are still on hold, the design for the 30,000-square-foot com-

mercial building that can expand to 100,000 square feet is almost finished. “There will be two phases to expand it to 100,000,” Summerlin said. The board discussed companies interested in the rental spaces and took a moment to celebrate. “We need to celebrate getting to the place of being able to attract interest and that we have a product to show for it,” Farrior said. The board reviewed its strategic plan as made in 2024 and how to best handle updating it. Summerlin recommended a consulting firm handling it over a three-month period. The board suggested making it a “living document” to be able to periodically check that they are on track and adjust themselves accordingly. The board suggested add-ons to the plan including economic benefits and actual realized benefits to show how the board is stewarding funds. The board suggested working with connections to South East because it just paid its membership dues. The board shared information about their prospective areas, and the meeting adjourned shortly thereafter.

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Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Duplin County.

Aug. 22 End of Summer Bash 5-8 p.m. A free concert with The Pink Slips. Bring a lawn chair. Beer and food will be available for purchase. Duplin County Events Center 195 Fairgrounds Drive Kenansville

B.R.A.V.E.’s Warsaw Day Noon to 3 p.m.

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SHORTAGE from page A1 According to Williams, the county requires eight qualified individuals for a fire department to run a first responder program; Magnolia currently has “four or five.” Because the department does not currently have enough qualified personnel to reliably operate its medical first responder program, Williams asked the county not to dispatch Magnolia to medical calls for the time being. He emphasized that the suspension is not permanent. The suspension applies only to medical responses and does not affect the department’s ability to respond to fire emergencies. Paid county paramedics continue to respond to medical calls in the area. Williams assured the board and the public that “everything on the fire department runs” regarding fire emergencies.

Owners press board on months-old septic request The mayor welcomed a plan for a part-time deputy By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal GREENEVERS — Tensions rose at the Greenevers board meeting Monday night when property owners addressed the board about a request they have pursued for several months with the board. Johnny Wilson, a property owner with properties on Clinic Circle Drive, had been requesting permission to put septic tanks on three of his properties because tapping into sewer services would cost more (currently $12,500 per unit). “We were told it was a ‘yes’ informally, then we were told several times to wait,” Wilson said. “We were denied a meeting with the mayor, but now we are just asking you to stand by what you told us.” The board asked for clarity about when the issue was first addressed, and Town Clerk Emma Brinson confirmed the issue was first presented in December 2025. Voices rose as several board members, the mayor, the Wilsons and other constituents complained that the right thing was not being done. The board agreed to discuss the matter in closed session and contact the Wilsons the following day with a decision, but everyone stayed until the closed session.

“We were denied a meeting with the mayor, but now we are just asking you to stand by what you told us.” Johnny Wilson, property owner

Chuck Weaver was an additional guest who spoke during public comments. He introduced himself and addressed questions from both the board and the constituents. “I want to be sure Greenevers is being looked after and having its needs met,” Weaver said. Weaver explained the resources available in the sheriff’s department for the town, and he discussed the possibility of contracted services. “Calypso pays the county $24,000 a year to have a part-time deputy, and we could do something like that here as well,” Weaver said. “We have been wanting an officer present in this community for some time, and we’ve set aside budget funds for it,” Mayor Diane Brown said. “We are excited to hear this good news, and we will be getting in contact with you to get a contract started.” Josh Outlaw of Adams and Company addressed the board in the first of two public hearings for the CDBG-R reconstruction funding. The board

encouraged him to move forward with the list of names already submitted by Brinson. With no comments from the public, Outlaw reminded everyone of the outlines of the grant funding and that the application was due Oct. 13. He also mentioned that closeout paperwork would be coming soon on the waterline extension project. Brinson told the board that the water system improvement project on the well houses is still working on Well 2. Well 1 will start after some construction around it is complete. The board discussed adding some public hearings to the September meeting agenda. The board approved doing the second public hearing on the CDBG-R project and a hearing on rezoning for recovery housing. A public hearing on a subdivision ordinance was moved to the October meeting. In new business, Brinson presented an estimate from Internet TNS for technology improvements to the town hall. The improvements included a new printer and upgrades to computer hardware and networks for $2,609.13. The board questioned the budget funding available for the improvements, and Brinson confirmed it would come from a $7,500 repair and maintenance budget. After some conversation, the board approved the upgrades. Brown reminded the board to read, sign and return letters they received from the auditor. The meeting ended in a closed session.

A free community event with school supplies, food, music and activities. Warsaw Parks and Recreation 309 Memorial Drive Warsaw

Golden Oldies Dinner Theater 5-9 p.m. A ticketed 1950s and '60s dinner show at The Bistro. Duplin Winery 505 N. Sycamore St. Rose Hill

Old School Throwback 7-11 p.m. Music from the 1970s, '80s and '90s. Dress in vintage styles. Southern Ground Manor 511 W. Trade Road Mount Olive

Southeast Pollinator Census 8 a.m. to noon A citizen science count at the Discovery Garden and Onslow County Farmers Market. Children can make a pollinator craft. Discovery Garden 4024 Richlands Highway Jacksonville

Aug. 29 Hope for the Warriors Block Party and Celebrity Meet and Greet 6 p.m. A celebrity meet and greet inside, then a block party with live music by 3-Peace at 7 p.m. outside. No tickets required. Mad Boar Restaurant and Pub 111 River Village Place Wallace

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Back-to-School Haircuts Free cuts at the Barber School through Aug. 31, and at Cosmetology from Aug. 19 to Sept. 3 for ages 4 and older. Appointments and walk-ins. REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

The first of two public hearings were held Monday concerning revitalization project funding in Greenevers. Josh Outlaw of Adams and Company was present to answer questions and give more details about the grants.

James Sprunt Community College Kenansville

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Magnolia board approves sewer work, park renovation The town also secured a $25,000 grant for downtown businesses and announced several upcoming events By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal THE MAGNOLIA Board of Commissioners approved several infrastructure projects funded through grants, including additional sewer work and renovations at Henry Gaylor Field Park during its Aug. 11 meeting. The board approved a change order for the Sun Valley sewer replacement project to account for increased costs for electrical supplies and a standby generator during the lengthy grant approval process. To use the remaining grant funds, the board

also approved work on Vincent Street and portions of Main Street near Queen Street. McDavid & Associates said the goal is to replace additional lines and use all money allocated to the project. Town Manager Charles Banks announced that Town Clerk Jessica Melton secured a $25,000 grant from Progress Energy. According to Banks, the money will provide microgrants to small downtown businesses for equipment, training or facade improvements. The board also approved a $7,950 bid to renovate the Henry Gaylor Field Park concession stand. The work will include electrical and lighting upgrades, new windows, doors, and reconnection of water and sewer lines. The goal is to provide two fully functional bathrooms and eliminate the need

“You cannot simply go out there and say, ‘Well, I wonder what my neighbor’s been up to. I’m going to go put their tag in there’ and just search on people randomly.” Jerry Woods, police chief for portable toilets during town events. Work is expected to begin within 30 to 45 days and take about 60 days. Police Chief Jerry Woods addressed recent concerns about Flock license plate reader cameras, saying the technology is used for criminal investigations and public safety emergencies, such as locating miss-

ing children or senior citizens. Woods said officers cannot use the system to conduct random searches on residents. “You cannot simply go out there and say, ‘Well, I wonder what my neighbor’s been up to. I’m going to go put their tag in there’ and just search on people randomly,” Woods said, emphasizing that unauthorized use can result in serious penalties and violations. “You can actually go to jail for doing that.” The board welcomed Kevin Williams, a 43-year-old Magnolia native and sworn deputy, as the town’s new fire chief. Williams takes over as the department works to address low membership, missed calls and compliance issues. The department is purchasing a new $477,000 fire truck through a 1% interest loan from Four County EMC. Williams is also working with the State Fire Marshal’s Office to bring the department back into compliance and end its probationary status. Because of staffing shortages, the department has temporarily suspended medical first responder dispatches while it rebuilds its

roster. (See 1A for the full story.) Banks reported that the town has $99,636.82 in liquid assets and $562,357 in its capital management trust. He also said Magnolia was officially removed from the Local Government Commission’s “unit assistance” list following a successful 2025 audit. Mayor Dawn Ward expressed enthusiasm about a potential YMCA partnership, saying the organization has already conducted preliminary work and site visits related to bringing programming to Magnolia. The Magnolia Community Center, the former library, will hold its ribbon-cutting ceremony Thursday, Sept. 17 at 3 p.m. The town also announced several upcoming events. Magnolia’s first Movie Night will feature “Casper” on Oct. 3, with free hot dogs, water and popcorn. Mayor’s Makes and Mingles, a free fall-themed quarterly craft night, is scheduled for Oct. 8. Holiday events include Trunk or Treat on Oct. 31, the third annual Tree Lighting on Dec. 4 and Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 12.

ROSE HILL from page A1 are rules for applicants applying for a grant, including minimum and maximum income requirements, the person applying must be the homeowner, and there can be no liens against the property. Residents with interest in seeing if they qualify for a grant for their home can contact Rose Hill Town Administrator Angela Smith. A second public hearing on the CDBG will be held at the next town board meeting Sept. 8 when Jones said they hope to have selected possible homes and projects for the grant. The grant applications are due Oct. 13. After the public hearing and later in the meeting, the board voted to approve applying for the CDBG funding. In addition to Jones’ presentation, representatives from Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity also attended the meeting. Gabriel Guerra, community outreach coordinator for the organization, gave a detailed presentation on what Habitat for Humanity can offer Rose Hill. The group builds homes and makes home repairs in New Hanover, Pender and Duplin counties. Guerra, along with two other representatives from the nonprofit organization, appeared after town commissioner Adam Quinn reached out. “When I see Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity, I think Wilmington,” Quinn said. “The reason it came up was because when we were having some discussions about our park and the land across the street, I was on Duplin GIS and noticed Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity was one of the owners. They own roughly 10 acres in Rose Hill.” Like the CDBG, Habitat for Humanity has homeowner eligibility requirements, but the town does not have to contribute funding. All funding comes directly from the organization. Guerra told the board that eligibility requirements include a minimum household gross income of $35,000 a year for a family of two and a maxi-

Tammy Jones, standing, of the Adams Company explains details of a new Community Development Block Grant the town is eligible for that would help rebuild or repair homes for economically challenged citizens in Rose Hill.

PHOTOS BY MARK GRADY FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

mum income of $50,150. Family size changes those income requirements. They also check the debt-to-income ratio of the applicant, and they even provide credit counseling services in addition to education on home ownership, financial education and classes on home repairs. Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity repair manager Roger Joseph told the board they offer home repairs, in addition to home construction for those in need. “We do critical repair. The median age (of homeowners we have made repairs for) is 70 years old, so those are the folks we take care of,” Joseph said. Common services under the repair program include kitchen and bathroom repairs, flooring and drywall replacement, plumbing and electrical fixes, HVAC repair or replacement, ramps and grab bars, and roofing and storm recovery. The organization expanded into home repair services after Hurricane Florence. Interested Rose Hill residents or others in Duplin County seeking information on Habitat for Humanity can call the organization’s main office in Wilmington at 910-762-4744. In other business, Rhonda

Gabriel Guerra, community outreach coordinator for Cape Fear Habitat for Humanity, explains homebuilding and repair services to citizens in need during the Rose Hill Town Board of Commissioners meeting Aug. 11. Rivenbark told the board this year’s Christmas by the Tracks event is scheduled for Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. and will feature its signature nighttime Christmas parade followed by a street dance.

“I need help. I need businesses,” Rivenbark said. “I want it to be nice and big. It’s Christmas and it’s a nighttime parade, so it’s an extra special thing.” Rivenbark said banners will be going up in town promoting

the event, and she hopes to generate a lot of excitement and interest this year. Smith presented the board the results of a salary survey after employee compensation was mentioned at last month’s meeting. The board agreed any discussion on salary adjustments should take place during budget sessions for next year’s budget. The board approved a list of streets to be included in the list for resurfacing during the 2026-27 fiscal year. The list includes E. South Street from Elm Street to Charity Street, Marshall Street, portions of N. Elm Street, N. Oak Street from Ridge to Blanchard, Maple Street, a portion of S. Oak Street and portions of S. Pine Street. The town has $235,550 budgeted for the resurfacing projects this year. Smith advised the board that bids would be sought for the projects and that any street resurfacing that did not meet the budget this year would be deferred to next year’s budget. The board also approved spending $30,000 for predevelopment planning regarding upgrades to the wastewater treatment plant. The planning is necessary for the town to seek grants in funding the upgrades.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

Net zero is dead and gone

This goal was pure virtuesignaling, and it never made any practical sense.

IT WAS ONLY a few years ago when the climate change alarms and green energy fad were all the rage at the White House and corporate boardrooms. Former President Joe Biden’s policies were all tilted to ending fossil fuels, and many of America’s biggest corporations embraced the concept of net-zero fossil fuels. This was the movement during the Biden years to eliminate virtually all oil, natural gas and coal production and replace these energy sources with windmills, solar panels and electric vehicles. This goal was pure virtue-signaling, and it never made any practical sense. Roughly 70% of American energy comes from fossil fuels, and only about 10% comes from “green energy.” Studies showed that the initiative would have decimated the U.S. economy: millions of American jobs lost, hundreds of billions of dollars of lost GDP, and much higher energy costs for American businesses and families. It was an “unaffordability” project at a time when Americans are demanding lower, not higher, costs. It was all pain and no gain. Even if the U.S. had reduced its fossil fuel usage, it would have had only a tiny impact on total global emissions because China and India were opening up far more coal plants than America was shutting down. Washington spent hundreds of billions of dollars on taxpayer subsidies to promote wind and solar, yet it remained as stalled out as the

EV plants that are shutting down across the country. Good news: The net-zero movement is dead — or at least on life support. A new study that I coauthored for Unleash Prosperity found that Wall Street’s once-aggressive embrace of net-zero climate policies has been reversed. Six of the largest U.S. banks — JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley and Wells Fargo — have completely withdrawn from the Net-Zero Banking Alliance. What a reversal this is: The net-zero movement once included a powerful coalition of financial institutions representing 140 member banks and $75.5 trillion in assets. There are a few financial institutions — such as Morgan Stanley and State Street — that still embrace some of these radical regulations, but not many. Much of this never made sense given that AI and data center energy needs will double or triple our electric power demands over the next two decades. That will require an all-of-the-above approach to meet those needs and to keep power affordable for our businesses and families. It also made no sense because America has the cleanest coal and 600 years of reserves — more than any other nation. We also have several hundred years of clean and cheap natural gas, which is critical to keeping the

lights on, American factories humming and air conditioning running. Of course, to meet those energy needs, we also need to be using more nuclear power, which produces little to no greenhouse gas emissions. Good news on that front: For the first time in decades, Americans now support nuclear power as well. The radical environmental groups haven’t given up, and they will surely try another comeback. They’re now blaming forest fires on climate change — even though globally there has been no upward trend in recent decades despite the deadly fires in North America this summer. One country that hasn’t backed off the green energy fad is Germany. What a debacle. Once the manufacturing and engineering hub of Europe, the country has deindustrialized without access to cheap fossil fuels. It’s spent nearly half a trillion dollars on “Energiewende” wind turbines while shutting off much of its natural gas usage. Its power costs are now nearly double what the rest of Europe and the U.S. companies pay. Factories are shutting down. The collapse of the net-zero movement here at home is a victory for economic reality, common sense and American energy abundance. Stephen Moore is co-founder of Unleash Prosperity and a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

COLUMN | MARK MINNELLA

America has a Man problem: when they leave the workforce, we all pay the price The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033.

TOO MANY American men are spending their prime working years outside the workforce, and the cost reaches far beyond lost income. In the mid-1950s, 97.4% of prime-age men, ages 25 to 54, participated in the labor force. In July 2026, that number was 89.2%. Put another way, the share of men in their prime working years outside the labor force has risen from roughly 1 in 38 to more than 1 in 9. I find those numbers troubling because work is more than a paycheck. Work brings structure to a day. It demands discipline and perseverance. It gives a man the opportunity to produce something, solve something, build something and provide for someone other than himself. Work responsibility is one of the ways men develop purpose and become connected to family and community. When large numbers of able-bodied men disconnect from work, the consequences ripple through our society. Too often, detachment from work causes detachment from responsibility, marriage, family formation and community. A Bureau of Labor Statistics study of men ages 30 to 36 found that among those who had not worked in the prior year, 70% had never married and 30.6% lived in a household with a parent. The same study found that 40.9% of nonworkers said health limited their ability to work, recognizing there are legitimate reasons some men cannot work, and compassion demands that we recognize them. That still leaves close to 60% who chose not to work. But compassion should not require us to ignore a larger cultural problem. For too long, our culture has been uncomfortable with many virtues associated with responsible manhood. Strength is too easily confused with aggression. Leadership is treated as

domination. Provision can be dismissed as antiquated. Sacrifice, perseverance and the responsibility to protect and provide are sometimes treated as though they belong to another era. We need to embrace the fact that there is nothing toxic about a man accepting responsibility. For Christians, that responsibility is not merely a cultural tradition. It is rooted in Scripture. Before there was a paycheck, a corporation or even a fallen world, God gave Adam work to do. Genesis 2:15 says God placed him in the garden “to tend and keep it.” Work was part of God’s design before sin entered the world. The Fall made work difficult; it did not make work meaningless. Scripture also makes a distinction our public conversation often misses. Second Thessalonians 3:10 says, “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.” It does not say cannot work. There is a world of difference between the man who cannot work and the man who will not. First Timothy 5:8 likewise makes providing for one’s household a serious responsibility. That is not a license for arrogance or domination. Biblical manhood is about responsibility, sacrifice, service, stewardship and strength under control. I also will not blame society for every man who chooses not to work. Men have a choice. A culture can lower expectations, but it cannot force a man to accept them. Each man is responsible for whether he accepts responsibility or avoids it. We should be able to hold two truths at once. First, our culture needs to do a better job encouraging responsible manhood, and second, men need to stop waiting for the culture’s permission before acting like … well, a responsible man. There is little reason to assume this problem

simply corrects itself. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033. However, another government program won’t change this trend’s direction. We need fathers teaching sons that responsibility is not a burden to escape but a privilege to carry. We need schools, churches, businesses, coaches and communities willing to tell boys that becoming a man means becoming useful to others. Most importantly, men themselves must decide that regardless of what the culture celebrates, they will work, build, provide, protect, serve and lead with character. The culture may change what it expects from men, but God has not. His expectations of responsibility, stewardship, sacrifice and provision live on. America does not merely need more men on payrolls. It needs more men who understand that their lives are supposed to count for something beyond themselves. The answer to men retreating from responsibility is not to continuously lower the bar until uselessness becomes the norm. Instead, we need to raise it. Call men to work. Call them to provide. Call them to build, protect, serve and lead. America does not need responsible manhood redefined downward. It needs responsible men willing to stand up. Mark Minnella was co-founder of the National Association of Christian Financial Consultants and “More Than Money” and is the author of “The Wall Street Awakening.”

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Legacy built from ground up Building a poultry powerhouse in rural North Carolina By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal BEFORE POULTRY houses lined the countryside in eastern North Carolina, turkeys drifted through the shade of tall trees, scattered across open pastures that seemed to stretch as far as a young boy could see. The work was simple, physical and constant — measured in steps, feed buckets and long days that started before sunrise. A young Bob Johnson learned it the same way many farmers do: by tagging along. At 4 or 5 years old, he followed behind his father’s workers as they went about their daily tasks, his legs working twice as hard to match their pace. “I just loved going out there and helping,” he said. One man, he remembers, never seemed to slow down. “He walked like 90 miles an hour everywhere he went,” Johnson reminisced with a grin. “He’d walk 100 yards ahead of me and I couldn’t keep up because I was just a little guy, and he’d turn around and come back. … I loved going out and feeding the turkeys.” Those long mornings didn’t feel like lessons at the time. But somewhere between the footsteps and the feeding, Johnson was learning the business the only way he knew how — by being right in the middle of it. For him, the poultry industry was not a career choice. It was simply life. Today, as CEO of House of Raeford Farms, Johnson leads one of the nation’s largest poultry operations — but the foundation of the business, he said, hasn’t really changed. The story began in the late 1940s when his father, Marvin Johnson, returned home to Rose Hill after serving in the Merchant Marines during the war in the Pacific Theater. “He worked with my grandfather for a while when he came out of the Merchant Marines,” Bob Johnson said. It was then when his dad and uncle, Bizzell Johnson, decided to purchase an incubator and started hatching turkey eggs. “He grew them in his mom’s backyard, my grandmama’s, and took them to New York to the live market and sold them,” Bob Johnson said. From those humble beginnings, the business steadily expanded. As the business grew, his father sought to build a feed mill. To secure a loan, he needed his grandfather, Nash Johnson, to co-sign. Nash agreed on the condition that he would own half of the business. “That’s how Nash Johnson became Nash Johnson & Sons’ Farms,” Bob Johnson said. “It was kind of a funny story. Granddaddy sat there looking at the note — it was a million-dollar note — and granddaddy sat there and looked at it, looked at it and looked at it, and Daddy said, ‘Hell Daddy, don’t let them zeros scare you.’ And Granddaddy said, ‘It’s not them zeros, it’s that damn one in front of it that scares me.’ But anyway, he signed it, and the feed mill got built.” The company, originally known as Nash Johnson & Sons’ Farms, was founded in 1955. That leap of faith helped transform a backyard turkey operation into what would eventually become House of Raeford Farms. Over time, the operation expanded from turkey farms into a hatchery, feed mill and processing facilities. The name House of Raeford was eventually derived from the turkey plant at Raeford. Looking back, Johnson said his father always encouraged him and his brother, Ed, to learn about the business. Often, the two boys listened as their father discussed challenges and decisions with others involved in the company.

COURTESY JOHN OSARIO

Bob Johnson is CEO of House of Raeford Farms. “The guys would come into Daddy’s office at the end of the day and sit around talking about the business,” he said. “We’d sit there and listen.” Meanwhile, young Bob was learning the business from the ground up — sometimes literally. Summers and Christmas breaks meant work: catching chickens at 3 a.m. and stacking boxes on the processing line. “I was made to work and to appreciate a dollar,” he said. “Money wasn’t just given to me. I had to work and earn what I had. I always remember Daddy coming home and just talking.” He didn’t know it then, but those early mornings, family stories and long hours were shaping the leader who would one day guide the company onto the national stage. “There are a lot of good memories and a lot of good people that worked with us through the years,” Johnson said. In 1998, recognizing that chicken consumption far outpaced turkey, the company began an aggressive expansion into the broiler market through key acquisitions. The company purchased Columbia Farms in South Carolina and Georgia in 1998, and then an operation in Louisiana in 2000. In 2005, the company bought the Wallace plant, which had been a turkey facility, and converted it into a chicken plant, doubling the production after it was rebuilt. In 2010, Johnson founded FLOCK, a nonprofit dedicated to channeling company resources and hundreds of thousands of dollars into community service. The company officially exited the turkey business in 2013 to focus entirely on broilers, and in 2024, the company purchased an operation in Vienna, Georgia. The company’s growth has been defined by its resilience during periods of extreme crisis. When the Wallace plant burned down in 2017, Johnson made the critical decision to rebuild the facility in just 15 months, doubling its production capacity in the process. Throughout that reconstruction, the company demonstrated its commitment to its workforce by keeping every employee on full payroll. “There were two times in my career when I didn’t know if we were going to survive,” he said. “You’re not buying these operations because they’re being run so well. You have to change the culture, you have to change the operation and get them to operate like they should.” Transitioning to a national chicken producer required a different approach to leadership and workforce management. As the company expanded outside its original North Carolina counties, management had to learn to empower people to run their own operations in other states. “My father always told me the biggest thing is to conquer the fear of failing,” he said. Throughout the transition, Johnson focused on shifting the company culture. The shift also involved managing a different demographic of workers. Johnson realized that management styles had to adapt to motivate workers differently, eventually leading to the implementation of workplace contests and incentives to make labor feel more like a game.

Some changes coincided with market dips that made it almost impossible to make a profit. “And you’re wondering if you’re gonna come out on the other end, but we’ve had people working with us that have just stuck with us through the tough times,” he said. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the company faced another major disruption. “Our phones started ringing off the hook,” Johnson said. “We’re heavily food service, so our customers were calling saying they didn’t need chicken anymore. Orders were canceled.” His son, Cowan, launched an innovative pivot by selling chicken directly to consumers out of the back of trucks in restaurant parking lots. “He put it on Facebook, and the first load sold in about two hours,” Johnson said. “What we learned from that was we needed to diversify more instead of relying so heavily on food service.” This grassroots effort, which at one point sold 100 to 150 loads a week, eventually evolved into a permanent online preorder system that continues to serve the community today. “It helped us move product and helped consumers when grocery stores were empty,” Johnson said. “Our farmers never missed a flock. That’s just refusing to fail.” To remain competitive, the company transitioned to high-tech automation, including AI-driven thigh deboning technology. This modernization has allowed the company to scale significantly and improve product quality. Balancing innovation with experience helps maintain the quality standards customers expect. Today, the company processes more than 5.5 million chickens each week across several facilities in the Southeast and is one of the nation’s top 10 broiler production companies. Consumer preferences have also changed significantly during Johnson’s career. When he first entered the industry, chicken wings were practically a byproduct. Today, wings are one of the most popular items in the industry. “And in the last three or four years, dark meat has become more popular in America,” he said. As demand for poultry continues to grow, Johnson is optimistic about the future of the industry. Americans now eat more than 100 pounds of chicken per person each year, making it one of the country’s most widely consumed proteins. But beyond production numbers or industry growth, Johnson hopes the company’s legacy will be measured in something more meaningful. “I want to be remembered as someone who made a difference in people’s lives,” he said. “The business is really just a tool to do that.” Johnson’s leadership has earned some of the industry’s highest honors, including the National Protein and Food Distributors Association Lifetime Achievement Award, previously awarded to his father, and induction into the N.C. Poultry Science Hall of Fame in 2025, joining his father and grandfather in a rare three-generation recognition. Earlier this year, the University of Mount Olive renamed its agriculture school the House of Raeford Farms School of Agriculture and Biological Sciences in honor of the Johnson family’s contributions. Despite the growth, Johnson remains humble. He is quick to credit his wife, Luanne, for the role she has played in supporting the family and the business. Today, their children, and even grandchildren, are involved in the business, and a new generation is beginning to find its footing in an industry that looks very different from the one he first knew but still depends on the same core values. For Johnson, that family foundation remains the heart of everything the business represents. Decades after chasing turkeys in Rose Hill, Johnson still measures success the same way he learned it as a boy — not just in production or profit, but in the strength of the people and communities that make it all possible.

MARRIAGES

Anita Marie Savage, Duplin County Register of Deeds issued 28 marriage licenses for the month ending on July 31, 2026: • Zechariah Ezekiel Schroeder, Kenansville, and Yuridbia Michel Santibanez Garcia, Magnolia; • Lindsay Kaitlyn Underhill, Mt Olive, and Noah Braswell Summerlin, Mt Olive; • Tyler Scott Pugh, Wallace, and Brady Alexis Green, Wilmington; • Chad Brandon Lambert, Teachey, and Morgan Lanier Johnson, Teachey; • Jeremy Scott Street, Beulaville, and Christina Marie Kennedy Atchinson; • William Kyle Darden, Rose Hill, and Amanda Lee Fedor, Rose Hill; • Cesar Garcia, Willard, and Yomaly Melissa Andrade Macias, Willard; • Shayla Katie Stanley, Kenansville, and Rayquan Meleak Faison, Kenansville; • Justin Keith Perkins, Wallace, and Wanda Janet Nunez, Wallace; • Melissa Marie Wampler Tharp, Indiana, and Joshua C Abell, Indiana; • Barbara Jean Deavers, Wallace, and Daniel Lee Riffe, Wallace; • Patrick Oneal Heath, Pink Hill, and Crystal Hope Toler, Pink Hill; • Felisha Nicole Leary, Pink Hill, and Kayla Danielle Weston, Pink Hill; • Esmeralda Godinez Zacarias, Faison, and Bairon Omar Canales Garcia, Wallace; • Gabriel Avitia Jr, South Dakota, Bella Maire Wiggins, Warsaw; • Hannah Lynn Autry, Willard, and Mario Angel Domingo Segovia, Willard; • Mark Alan Adams, Magnolia, and Patricia Ann Strapp, Magnolia; • Rachel Ivey Blanchard, Kenansville, and Matthew James Conrad Bentz, Maryland; • Jordan Levon Lawson-Moore, Kinston, and Ashley Renae Kenan, Beulaville; • Carlos Roberto Sanchez Romero, Magnolia, and Leslie Ogilve Gallegos Serrano, Magnolia • Christopher James Lengyel, Pink Hill, and Carli Deborah Gray, Pink Hill; • Jimmy Neal Wiggins, Kinston, and Lora Lee Walton, Kinston; • Victor Rufino Tomas Marroquin, Rose Hill, and Maria Audelina Bernardo Ambrocio, Rose Hill; • Hannah Victoria Wallace, Albertson, and Hunter Lee Horne, Kinston; • Elijah Shane Smith, Mount Olive, and Hollie Paige Lanier, Chinquapin; • Johnathan Courtney Price, Pink Hill, and Misty Dawn Allred, Pink Hill; • David Ryan Lanier, Pink Hill, and Alison Riley Raynor, Pink Hill; • Savino Angel Soto Jr., Warsaw, and Giselle Leon Toribino, Warsaw.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Back to School Community Day draws families in Kenansville Smart Start funded Pre-K supplies and the community covered other grades By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal

PHOTOS BY REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Children picked from a list of options and waited patiently to have their faces painted Saturday at Duplin County Partnership for Children’s Back to School Community Day in Kenansville.

KENANSVILLE — Young families enjoyed a yard full of fun activities at the Annual Back to School Community Day on Saturday. Hosted by Duplin County Partnership for Children in Kenansville, the event included bouncy houses, DJ music, face painting, balloon animals, clowns and free popcorn. Tables set up in the shade of the building provided information on services as well as backpacks full of supplies and goodies. The Greenevers Fire Department volunteered to help monitor parking and the event. It also provided a dunking booth where kids and adults

“Since we are in our new location, we hope to do some craft nights and other fun family centered events.” Christy Jones, executive director took turns throwing balls to dunk a fireman. According to Executive Director of Duplin County Partnership for Children Christy Jones, the event started as a way to promote literacy and kindergarten readiness by providing an age-appropriate book and school supplies to pre-K and kindergarten children. “Over the last four years, community partnerships, sponsorships, donations and volunteers grew the event to in-

clude all grade levels,” Jones said. While backpacks and school supplies were provided on a first-come, first-served basis, everything was free of charge. Smart Start funds provided for pre-K and kindergarten supplies, but the community provided for the other grade levels. Duplin County Partnership for Children is a nonprofit founded in 1994 to help nurture educational development of children up to 5 years old. They provide oversight for Smart Start, a nationally recognized early childhood education initiative inaugurated in 1993 under the leadership of then-Gov. Jim Hunt. Smart Start programs and contact information can be found at dcpfc.org. “Since we are in our new location, we hope to do some craft nights and other fun family centered events,” Jones said. People interested in supporting Duplin County Partnership for Children are always welcome. “We welcome community collaboration during events, volunteers, and monetary donations,” Jones said. The Duplin County Partnership for Children is located at 408 N. Main St. in Kenansville.

Left, clowns talked to guests and made them balloon animals Saturday at Duplin County Partnership for Children’s Back to School Community Day in Kenansville. Right, Greenevers Firemen volunteered their time to man the event from the parking lot to the bouncy houses and a dunking booth at last weekend’s event.

DUPLIN SPORTS COLUMN MICHAEL JAENICKE

WRH-ED war: Grid fireworks for new season

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

JK’s Taulil Pearsall is the top returning runner in Duplin County this fall.

Long wait over for Tigers’ backfield of Pearsall, Murray “If we take care of our affairs weekly and take care of Duplin County, that sends you off like a rocket.” Tim Grady, JK coach

JK’s Taulil Pearsall won’t be held back, and Keyshawn Murray will get opportunities to show his skills By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal WARSAW — Keyshawn Murray and Taulil Pearsall won’t be held back any longer. Murray, the new James Kenan quarterback, and Pearsall, who is in line to be the Tigers’ top running back, were blocked by a talented older class, which went 24-4 over two seasons. “It’s his time. If he’s going to

shine it’s now,” JK head coach Tim Grady said about Pearsall, who ran for 837 yards and scored 12 times last season, though he took second or third fiddle to Jeremiah Hall (2,060 yards, 27 TDs) and also waited behind the running and pass catching of CJ Hill. “He could have probably started for someone else the past three years,” Grady said. “He waited his turn, and I find that revealing about our program when guys wait in line to get their shot.” Yet Pearsall, who averaged 6.1 tackles on defense, is an all-around contributor on the grid. “He’s one of our best blockers and a quiet kid,” Grady

said. “He’s an extremely fast downhill runner, who doesn’t juke a lot. He’s a 100-mph straight-ahead runner.” Murray also put in his time on defense last season, averaging 5.6 tackles as a cornerback. Yet he did carry the ball three times and hit paydirt twice. The senior who can run and pass reminds Grady of Bret Brown, a former JK quarterback who wasn’t a starter until his senior campaign. And big numbers followed. “Bret had to wait, and I think people were surprised,” said Grady, who played alongside Murray’s father, Junius, at JK. “I think a lot of people See JK, page B4

ACROSS DUPLIN County and the better part of eastern North Carolina the theme for football season is “next man up.” Indeed, gridiron teams are attempting to replace graduated “stars” with new “Every Friday players. is a big Who is going to be the next Jamarae Lamb, game.” Jeremiah Hall, Carell Phillips or Shawn Davis? Battle Holley, Or the next bruising ED coach Cal Avent, Trashawn Ruffin or David Zeleya, or play numerous positions effectively, like Zachary Ball did in ’25? These and many more answers will begin to be revealed Aug. 21 when Wallace-Rose Hill and East Duplin play for the 69th time. While the Bulldogs lead the series, it’s been a 16-16 draw since 1996. The Panthers embarrassed their rival last year with a 17-0 triumph on Jack Holley Field in Wallace. While that’s somewhat of a motivating See COLUMN, page B4

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Encounters between WRH and ED are often physical and played between the hash marks.

Standout Mckinnie leads way for Panthers on both sides of ball East Duplin’s top defenders get the green light on offense this fall By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Brayden Jones hands the ball to Josiah LeBlanc with Darwin Bonilla as the trailing back in this all-sophomore backfield play.

BEULAVILLE — Sixteen seniors on their last hurrah and 10 upstart sophomores are the two factions at play for the East Duplin football team this fall. For three-year starter Keeshon Mckinnie, it’s an opportunity to become the top back in head coach Battle Holley’s Wing-T offense that was

dominated by Shawn Davis for the past three seasons (3,840 yards, 53 TDs). Yet the senior will give way offensively to other Panthers runners, given that he was the ECC’s Defensive Player of the Year last fall. Senior fullback Noah LeBlanc, classmate Ayden Lane and sophomores Zachary Cruz, Josiah LeBlanc, Darwin Bonilla and Hayes Lanier will also get their chances to tote the pig. “Everyone is going to play,” said head coach Battle Holley. “We have 33 to 35 on the roster, and I feel good about an athletic

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senior class and a bunch of talented 10th graders.” There are only seven juniors and a pair of freshmen on the Panthers roster as they prepare for their season opener against archrival Wallace-Rose Hill on Aug. 21. ED has three returning starters on its offensive line — center Brody Blizzard and tackles Anderson Puac and Everett Miller, all of which are seniors. Classmate Luke Caraway, junior Silas Jarman and sophomore Trelyn Savage are See ED, page B4

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

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By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal TEACHEY — Wallace-Rose Hill overlooked on the football field? “Everyone is saying the talent is gone and the ’Dawgs are dead,” said coach Kevin Motsinger, who is entering his 10th season in Teachey and 23rd overall as a head coach. “We don’t have the running backs. We don’t have the coaches. We’ve lost our mojo.” Don’t tell that to New Hanover, a school twice the size of WRH, which dominated the 7A school during a scrimmage last week. “I liked our violence and physicality on both sides of the ball,” said Motsinger, who coached the Wilmington team to a 71-43 mark in nine seasons. “We showed our youth and inexperience, and we’re going to take our lumps early with the schedule we have.” Despite losing running back Jamarae Lamb (2,430 yards, 30 TDs) to Lenoir Community College and going 6-6 in 2025, Motsinger and company could face teams that have similar weaknesses. And on a somewhat level field, it’s hard to bet against the ’Dawgs, who are attempting to make new history with an upgraded offensive line, a solid core of returnees on the defensive line and players looking to showcase their talent in the limelight. If it comes down to a dogfight, WRH isn’t an underdog. “I honestly feel like people forget about our ability to develop talent,” Motsinger said. O-line refurbished, new schemes added

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Wallace-Rose Hill, soccer Cergio Acosta scored two significant goals on Aug. 17 during a 5-4 win over 5A powerhouse Dixon. Acosta, a defender when Wallace-Rose Hill won a 3A title last season, has moved to the offensive side. “He brings a level of energy that is different,” said head coach Aaron Murray. “He had unreal speed and can, in some instances, turn it on in an instant. “The Dixon game was a battle and a fan’s treat with nine goals. I’m looking forward to seeing Cergio continue to grow as a player and as a young man.” WRH has won three of its first four matches this season. Acosta and the Bulldogs face another stern test Aug. 20 when they travel to face 5A Richlands.

Indeed, Lamb got far too many yards last season on his own. WRH’s offensive line was a wreck to start the campaign, and patchwork units just never clicked. Competition is keen for playing time, and Motsinger and his staff are committed to playing all his players to find solutions. A week before opening kickoff against East Duplin and many spots are defined by battles that use the words “also,” “or” and “maybe.” Still, three names scream out as building blocks — junior guard Jacob Hester (5-foot-4, 227 pounds) and tackles Jacoby Dixon (6-0, 247), a junior, and senior Tashii Huffin (6-3, 322). Juniors Jean Carlos (5-5, 226) and Xavier Diaz (5-7, 271) and sophomore Yomar Torres (5-6, 201) are vying for snaps at guard, as are guards Ethan Fisher (6-1, 318) and Teven Mitchell (5-9, 249), who will miss opening night with an injury. WRH is rotating junior Hector Pinto (5-9, 286) and senior Jahkari Faison (6-3, 374) at center, while Trenell Medina-Smith (6-2, 185), Xavier Sutton (6-1, 212) and Jaire Woodard (6-1, 233) are at tight end.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Senior Adrian Allen is the bull on the WRH defensive line. “Our line is greatly improved,” Motsinger said. “It was bad last year, and we had to fix it. It has got to get better and better, and we have a long way to go. I think New Hanover’s D-line was expecting our O-line to be as good as it was.”

“I honestly feel like people forget about our ability to develop talent.” Kevin Motsinger, WRH head coach

New backfield Every ’Dawg running back and wide receivers Christian Smith (5-6, 148) and Kentrell Williams (5-10, 127) will be targets for sophomore quarterback Kayden Keith, who played varsity basketball as a frosh. “The sky is the limit, and he’s just a baby giraffe,” said Motsinger, who is the offensive coordinator. “He understands the game and is going to be huge. We ran the option with him all last year, and he’s a tremendous talent.” Stock in running back Adrian Glover has grown significantly since he won the 200-meter sprint at the 3A track meet and landed second in the 100. “We’ve got to get the ball into his hands because he’ll be the fastest kid on the field,” Motsinger said. “He was basically a track guy when we got him, but in our FCA camp he was the best player in 7-on-7s.” WRH will likely use several backs in its search for new runners who can produce. Enter Logan Marks (5-8, 187), Raquan McCrimmon (5-8, 158), Tyreke Williams (5-10, 186), Kaleb Carr (5-9, 148) and Tyran Boney (5-9, 147). Meanwhile, HCA transfer Jarrod Miller (5-10, 217), Khay’jre Murphy (5-9, 224) and Josiah Faison (5-8, 214) will split time at fullback as all three have defensive roles. “The big boys don’t like heat, so we’ll rotate a lot of players this season and run out of the Wing-T, Single Wing, a shotgun package and have the ability to spread people out on defense,” Motsinger said. “We’ve also added a super package.” Allen anchors huge defensive line Anyone who hadn’t heard of defensive end Adrian “Miami” Allen (5-11, 338) will this season as he’s one of the most feared players in the region.

The senior will join Huffin, Murphy and Medina-Smith as starters in the trenches. The foursome will get spelled by offensive linemen Miller and Jonathan Robinson (5-8, 231). Junior DJ Wagner (6-1, 171) and Tyreke Williams (5-10, 186) will be inside linebackers with Marks, Boney and Jalen Moss (5-9, 149) as outside ’backers. Glover, Walker and Byron Phillips (5-10, 142) will be cornerbacks and McCrimmon the safety. “Our last scrimmage, we started nine kids on defense who were playing in their first varsity football game,” Motsinger said. “Four linemen and ‘Worm’ (McCrimmon) all played last season, but I’d have to say our overall team speed is better than it has been the last several years.” Setting sail on unforgiving beginning WRH’s nonconference slate also includes games against Kinston, Clinton and Pender. The ’Dawgs travel for a key Swine Valley Conference assignment against Midway (Oct. 9) and host James Kenan in their regular season finale. It remains unknown what the ’Dawgs will do about the potential vacancy of Spring Creek, which said it probably couldn’t field a competitive varsity team and would likely play a junior varsity schedule. Officials at both JK and WRH have said a second meeting between the schools during the regular season won’t happen. What probably won’t cut the grade is starting off 1-3, like the ’25 club did, even though WRH lost in OT to Pender and by two points to Kinston, the eventual East Region champs. The ’Dawgs won a conference title three seasons ago and shared the SVC title with JK in ’24. Speedster Adrian Glover won the 200 meter and was second in the 100 at the 3A track and field championships last spring.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

James Kenan Tigers

East Duplin Panthers

Wallace-Rose Hill Bulldogs

Coach: Tim Grady

Coach: Battle Holley

Coach: Kevin Motsinger

No.

Name

Position

Grade

No.

Name

Position

Grade

No.

Name

Position

Grade

0 .........Taulil Pearsall ..................... RB/DB ..................Sr.

1 ..........Keeshon Mckinnie ............. RB/FS ...................Sr.

0 .........Kayden Keith ...................... QB/DB .................So.

1 ..........Terrell Allen ........................ FS/WR ..................Sr.

2 .........Noah LeBlanc ..................... FB/LB ...................Sr.

1 ..........Kaleb Carr........................... RB/DB .................. Jr.

2 .........Jaden Garner ..................... LB ..........................Sr.

3 .........Sholar Easton..................... SE/C.....................So.

2 .........Adrian Glover ..................... RB/DB ..................Sr.

3 .........Kentrell Morrisey ............... RB/SS ................... Jr.

4 .........Esiah Bennerman .............. RB/LB ...................Sr.

3 .........Tyreke Williams .................. FB/LB ..................So.

4 .........Paxton Smith ..................... TE ..........................Sr.

5 .........Joseph Forbes ................... SE/C......................Sr.

4 .........Duwon Walker .................... QB/DB ..................Sr.

5 .........Zavion Woodard................. LB/FB ................... Jr.

6 .........Darwin Bonilla .................... RB/C ....................So.

5 .........Jarrod Miller ....................... FB/DE ................... Jr.

6 .........Jamarion Dudley................ WR/RB.................. Jr.

7 .........Zachary Cruz ..................... RB/SS ..................So.

6 .........Justan Farrior..................... FB/DE ..................So.

7 .........Keyshawn Murray .............. QB/DB ..................Sr.

8 .........Josiah LeBlanc ................... RB/SS ..................So.

7 .........Khay’jre Murphy ................ FB/DE ..................Sr.

8 .........Josh Benjamin ................... WR ........................ Jr.

9 .........Nickolas Davis .................... SE/C......................Sr.

8 .........Logan Marks....................... RB/LB ...................Sr.

9 .........Jaylon Smith ...................... FB .......................... Jr.

10 .......Brayden Jones ................... QB/FS ..................So.

9 .........Jayden Boney..................... RB/DB .................. Jr.

10 .......Ryan Hall............................. DE/CB................... Jr.

11 ........Hayes Lanier ...................... QB/RB/SS ..........So.

10 .......Byron Phillips ..................... RB/DB .................So.

11 ........Mari Graham ...................... RB .......................... Jr.

12........Dominic Hall ....................... SE/C/DE .............. Jr.

11 ........Josiah Faison ..................... FB/DE ................... Jr.

12........Sherrod King ...................... RB .........................So.

15........Jeremiah Monk .................. RB/DE ................... Jr.

13........Jalen Moss.......................... RB/DB .................. Jr.

13........Trip Phipps ......................... DE .......................... Jr.

22 .......James Matas ...................... RE/DE ..................So.

14........Kymani Rhodes .................. FB/LB ................... Jr.

14........Zyquan Twitty .................... FB/LB ...................Sr.

23 .......Semaj Scott........................ TE/DT ................... Jr.

15........DJ Wagner .......................... TE/LB ................... Jr.

15........Kingston Dunn ................... CB/RB..................So.

23 .......Taylor Whaley..................... K............................. Fr.

16........Kentrell Williams ................ WR/DB ................. Jr.

16........Zaden White ....................... CB/WR .................Sr.

25 .......Greyson Williams ............... TE/C......................Sr.

17 ........Dorlin Bonillia ..................... K............................. Jr.

17 ........Liston Loveless .................. DT/FB ...................Sr.

33 .......Ayden Lane......................... RB/LB ...................Sr.

20 .......Raqwon McCrimmon ........ RB/DB .................. Jr.

20 .......Josiah Mitchell ................... ILB ......................... Jr.

34 .......Amir Lamont ...................... RB/DE ...................Sr.

21........Xavier Sutton ..................... TE/DE ................... Jr.

35 .......Sameer Mathis................... TE/DE ..................So.

50 .......Anderson Puac .................. OL/DL ...................Sr.

23 .......Jaire Woodard .................... TE/DE ................... Jr.

40.......Micha Lee ........................... CB .......................... Jr.

51 ........Everett Miller ...................... OL/DL ...................Sr.

24 .......Christian Smith .................. WR/DB ................. Jr.

44 .......Oscar Vasquez ................... DE/G ....................So.

53 .......David Samayoa .................. OL/DL ...................Sr.

25 .......Tyran Boney ....................... RB/DB .................So.

50 .......Isaiah Kornegay ................. DE/CB................... Jr.

54 .......Dylan Brown ....................... OL/LB ................... Jr.

28 .......Antwon Stone .................... RB/LB ..................So.

51 ........Lee McRae .......................... G ............................Sr.

56 .......Roman Byrd ....................... OL/LB ................... Jr.

33 .......Seth Carroll ........................ RB/LB ..................So.

53 .......Torrance McLain................ DT ..........................Sr.

58 .......Jacauri Hill .......................... DL ..........................Sr.

45 .......Landon Smith..................... TE/DT ...................Sr.

55 .......Alex Vasquez ...................... OT/DE ...................Sr.

60 .......Trelyn Savage..................... OL/DL ..................So.

50 .......Jacob Hester ...................... OL/DT ................... Jr.

57 .......Hunter Grady ..................... TE/DE ................... Jr.

61........Silas Jarman....................... OL/DL ................... Jr.

51 ........Jean Carlos......................... OL/DT ................... Jr.

58 .......Marcel Carr......................... OL ..........................Sr.

62 .......Derrick Hall ......................... OL/DL ................... Jr.

52 .......Xavier Diaz.......................... OL/DT ...................Sr.

62 .......Mason Garner .................... G ............................ Jr.

71 ........Brody Blizzard ................... OL/DL ...................Sr.

53 .......Hector Pinto ....................... OL/DT ................... Jr.

77 .......Gavin Garner ...................... C ............................Sr.

72 .......Luke Carroway ................... OL/DL ...................Sr.

55 .......Jacoby Dixon ...................... OL/DT ...................Sr.

75 .......Blake Schuddekopf ........... OL/DL ..................So.

56 .......Yomar Torres...................... OL/DT ..................So.

79 .......Daylin Johnson .................. OL/DL ...................Sr.

58 .......Johnathan Robinson ......... OL/DE ...................Sr.

James Kenan 2026

80 .......Samuel Barnette ............... K............................So.

59 .......Teven Mitchelll ................... OL/DE ................... Jr.

Record 2025: 12-2, Won the ECC 2A-3A, lost to Kinston in East Region final

82 .......Seth Brown ......................... TE/DE ...................Sr.

62 .......Jacob Serrano.................... OL/DE ..................So.

89 .......Josh Barron ........................ K.............................Sr.

72 .......Zisean Miller ....................... OL/DT ..................So.

90.......Taylor Whaley..................... K............................. Fr.

76 .......Jakhari Faison .................... OL/DT ................... Jr.

Coach: Tim Grady

77 .......Ethan Fisher ....................... OL/DT ................... Jr.

Career Record: JK (45-16 from 2021-25) Coaching Staff: Ken Avent III, DC Lee Sutton, John Thomas Avent, Juan Hooper.

East Duplin 2026

State titles: (3)1960, 2007, 2013

Record in 2025: 9-3 overall, first in ECC 3A-4A

Key Returnees: Sr. RB Taulil Pearsall (77-837, 12 TDs; 6.1 tackles), Sr. C Gavin Garner, Sr. T/DE Alex Vasquez (4.9 tackles), Sr. FS Terrell Allen, Jr. NG Jaylon Smith,

Coach: Battle Holley. Entering 19th season as head coach, the past 16 at ED.

Newcomers: Sr. QB Keyshawn Murray, Jr. RB Mari Graham, Jr. RB Kentrell Morrisey, Sr. FB Zyquan Twitty, Jr. G Mason Garner, So. OT Torrance McClain, So. CB/RB Kingston Dunn, So. LB Sharrod King Key Losses: QB Eli Avent (44-77 for 825 yards, 14TDs; 49249, 7 TDs running) Sr. RB/DB David Zeleya (11.6 tackles), Jeremiah Hall (2,060, 27 TDs), FB/DL Cal Avent (9.4 tackles), DB Zamarion Smith (7.9 tackles), RB/WR/DB Chris Hill (43-436, 10 TDs; 16-422, 7 TDs receiving; 4.8 tackles), DL Stedman McIver (9.6 tackles). The Skinny: The leadership has changed and it will be interesting to see which players step forward, as the core group last season was extremely tight. Pearsall enters as Duplin’s best returning RB and Murray has piqued the interest of Tiger Nation. It hardly seems possible that JK would be as dominate this fall, but they play against teams from this season, not 2025. Nor do they have to live up to all the standards last season’s team held. Winning will take care of the comparisons and details. Look for the offense to carry JK early. Its defense will follow. Vasquez is perhaps the toughest player in Duplin County and his work on both lines is invaluable.

Career Record: 164-62. WRH (9-4 in 2007), Kinston (226 from 2008-09), ED (133-55 from 2011-25). He is in the top 20 for career wins among current N.C. coaches. Led ED to its first state final in 2017 and its first state title in 2022. Has coached in five East Region finals. Coaching Staff: Brian Aldridge, Seth Sandlin (DC), Graham Walker, Slade Brown, Scott Kennedy, Cameron Cottle, Scott Kennedy, Chris Jarman, Jeremy Joyner, Landen Kennedy, Jade Brinkley, Gage Jackson, Robin Crumpler, Waylon Sloan ED State Titles: (1) 2022 Coaching Staff: Brian Aldridge, Seth Sandlin (DC), Graham Walker, Slade Brown, Scott Kennedy, Cameron Cottle, Scott Kennedy, Chris Jarman, Jeremy Joyner, Landen Kennedy, Jade Brinkley, Gage Jackson, Robin Crumpler, Waylon Sloan Key Returnees: Sr. RB/DB Keeshon Mckinnie (54-584, 3.8 tackles per game), Sr, WB/LB Noah LeBlanc, Sr. T Everett Miller, Sr. T Anderson Puac, C Brody Blizzard, DE Jacauri Hill, LB Ayden Lane, DB/LB Esiah Bannerman. Newcomers: So. QB Brayden Jones, Jr. SE/DE Dominic Hall, So. RB Zachary Cruz, So. SS/RB Hayes Lanier, So. SS Josiah LeBlanc, So. OL Blake Schuddenkoph, So. CB/RB Darwin Bonilla, Jr. TE Semaj Scott. Key Losses: RB Shawn Davis (1,207 yards, 17 TDs), RB Aaron Hall (919 yards, 10 TDs), QB Branson Norris (40-88 for 628, 12 TDs), WR/DB Zack Ball, DB/RB DJ Davis (HCA transfer), DL Jack Tuck, FS JP Murphy. The Skinny: There are few coaching staffs that get as much out of their players as ED. Holley and his many coaches break down and teach the fundamentals of the game – blocking, tackling, running, and mental focus that keeps turnovers, penalties, blown assignments and other mistakes to a minimum. QB Jones could wind up being a duplicate of former Panther QB Zack Brown, who was smart and could throw (51-87 for 768 and 8 TDs) and run (43-259, 7 TDs) when an opening arises. McKinnie hasn’t been a money back, but there’s all kinds of hope that he will be. LeBlanc is also a tough player who transferred to ED last season, only to have surgery on his knee that kept him out in ’25. Holley’s ball-control offense is a disciplined approach that often keeps games close, sometime even when the Panthers have a definite advantage, perhaps no more evident than in ED’s 14-7 TO win over Richlands (3-8).

78 .......Tashii Huffin........................ OL/DT ................... Jr. 88 .......Trenell Madina Smith ........ TE/DE ...................Sr. 99 .......Adrian Allen ........................ TE/DT ...................Sr.

Wallace-Rose Hill 2026 Record 2025: 6-6, 4-2 in ECC 2A/3A. Lost to JK in second round of 3A playoffs. Coach: Kevin Motsinger Career Record: 180-91. Entering 10th season at WRH (8534 from 2017-25). Also coached at New Hanover (71-43 from 2006-14), James Kenan (24-14 from 2003-05) Coaching Staff: DC Tyler Pugh, Bubba James, Cory Lovelace, William Jeffers, Jordan Boser, Scott Imwalle. Notable: Motsinger led WRH to 2A title in 2017 and took New Hanover to a 4A final berth in 2009 and WRH to the 2A final in 2021. He also revived programs at JK and New Hanover. WRH state titles: (7) 2014-17, 2008-2009, 1994. Top returnees: DE Adrian “Miami” Allen, DL Kha’jyre Murphy (2.1 tackles), Sr. Adrian Glover Sr., DT Tashii Huffin, DT/FB Khay’jre Murphy, FS Raquan McCrimmon, OLB/RB Logan Marks, OL Jacob Hester, OL Jacoby Dixon, Jr. K Dorlin Bonilla, Sr. DE Trenell Medina-Smith, Jr. DB/RB Jayden Boney (6.2 tackles), Sr. G Xavier Diaz. Newcomers: QB Kayden Keith, FB Jarrod Miller (HCA transfer), DB/QB Duwon Walker, LB DJ Wager, So. ILB Tyreke Williams, Jr. DL Jakhari Faison, Jr. C/DT Jakhari Faison, Jr. OL Ethan Fisher, Jr. C Jean Carlos, So. OLB Tyran Boney. Key losses: RB Jamarae Lamb (2,426 yards, 30 TDs), Sr. RB/DB Jamari Carr (499 rushing, 9 TDs), LB Will Brooks (5.5 tackles), QB/LB Matthew Wells (4.6 tackles, 2 Ints.), LB Darrius McCrimmon (4.7 tackles, 3 Ints.), DL Aspen Brown, OL Christian Scarlett, LB Jeremiah Baker. The Skinny: Underestimating is a mistake. And this season teams risk getting smacked around if games become dogfights. Glover, Miller, Keith and several other backs have the potential to be standouts, though not household names among area fans. WRH had a big and physical O-line – and Kayne Roberts -- when it got to the 2A final in ’21. While this year’s team might not be at that level, it could be the reason why WRH is competitive. And being under the radar plays in Motsinger and WRH’s favor. If the ‘Dawgs were dormant last fall, seed sown since January will have favorable returns in ’26.

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Keyshawn Murray will play on both sides of the ball this fall for JK.

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B4

Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

JK from page B1

COLUMN from page B1

are going to be surprised about TP, who can squat 500 pounds, jerk 400 and is a machine in the weight room.” Junior Mari Graham and Kentrell Morrisey are part of a Tigers’ running back contingent that includes Jaylon Smith and Zyquan Twitty, a transfer from Union. Graham is recovering from a vehicle accident and won’t be ready for a few games. “Mari is very much a top-three leader in the offseason,” Grady said. “He’s a program kid. “Kentrell is tougher than nails and probably our best open-field tackler. He’s a tough kid and a great athlete.” Senior Paxton Smith returns at tight end, a key position in the Tigers’ offense. Grady is happy about the development of his offensive line, which includes Mason Garner at center, Gavin Garner and Lee McRae at guards, and Alex Vasquez and Torrance McClain. “We average about 6-foot-1 and 265 pounds across the board, so I hope our big, strong guys will be a problem for other teams,” Grady said. Josh Benjamin and Terrell Allen are the wideouts for JK. “We’re trying to open up our playbook to utilize our athletes and get them in space,” Grady said. “Alex is the vocal leader up there. Gavin and Lee are both in their second year, and Mason is solid. Torrance is a player who can squat 600 pounds and can also move his feet well.”

factor, the loser of this game always carries a chip on their collective shoulders. “You can’t be the baddest dog in the state without being the baddest dog in your neighborhood,” said WRH coach Kevin Motsinger. “Last year, our kids made too big a deal out of the game and did things I hadn’t seen done in 30 years, making the moment bigger than it was and is.” ED head coach Battle Holley, whose father was a coaching legend at WRH, said the game is important, yet not as important as it’s often made out to be. “It is and it isn’t a big game,” he said. “Ya know, every Friday is a big game. Both schools will make the playoffs, but starting off the season with a county rival is big. “But this game does not define our season or their season. There’s a lot of football to be played after Game 1, and your goal is to always play your best at the end of the season.” Holley has respect for the players in black and orange. He coached WRH to a 9-4 mark in 2007, turned around Kinston in two seasons by going 22-6 and has been at ED since 2011. “They’re big and have athletes all over the place,” Holley said of his foe. And recent games have been nail-biters for fans on both sides. Not many rivalries can have games that are within a touchdown for more than a decade. “You know where you stand after a game like this in a great atmosphere,” said ED defensive coordinator Seth Sandlin. “It’s emotional, and there’s not a better game for us. We know they’re going to bring it. We have a lot of respect for them. They know how to play football.” The bragging rights now last longer since the two schools are in different classifications and won’t meet again until opening night in ’27. For the record, a loss does not end a team’s postseason journey, as it did in 2022 when ED beat WRH in the East Region finals and went on to capture its first state title by slipping past Reidsville. Yet under the current circumstance it can be 2017 all over again. That season, ED beat WRH, and both advanced to state title matches. ED fell to Hibriten, while WRH slipped past Reidsville in overtime for its four straight and sixth title in nine years. Both games were at UNC. The same day at NC State, North Duplin fell to Cherokee and were denied a 1A title. There are two more Duplin rivalries. On Sept. 11, ED will host James Kenan. The Tigers in turn visit WRH on the final day of the regular season. Those three games made Duplin football what it became. Yet there are many other great games this fall. They include:

Defense is revamped Vasquez, an all-county player from a season ago, is a two-way terror as he is also a hawking defensive lineman. He joins nose guard Jaylon Smith and McClain on JK’s defensive line. Pearsall, Sherrod King and Jaden Garner are the Tigers’ linebacking crew, though Twitty will be included in the rotation. Morrisey is the weak side

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Assistant coach Ken Avent III, who played four years at Catawba, was a freshman on JK’s last state championship team in 2013. safety with Jamarion Dudley on the strong side and Allen at free safety. Kington Dunn and Ryan Hall are cornerbacks. JK will have a hard time playing “D” to the level it played the previous two seasons minus David Zeleya, the Defensive Player of the Year in Duplin County, Cal Avent, Zamarion Smith, Stedman McIver and Jaquez Smith. In 2025, the leader of the Tigers was Hassan Kornegay, who was the top tackler in the state in all classifications. So Tiger fans are waiting for new star-like leaders to make their presence known. Grady thinks that will happen as the weeks pass and victories are snatched. “Our goals have not changed

one bit,” Grady said. “If we take care of our affairs weekly and take care of Duplin County (Wallace-Rose Hill and East Duplin), that sends you off like a rocket. Then we would like to win our conference, and from there things take care of themselves. And yes, we want to win a state championship.” The last big-trophy year for JK was 2013 when Ken Avent Jr. led the Tigers to a 16-0 mark and a 1AA title. Early games against Southern Nash and East Duplin will be tests. JK was the No. 1 seed in the playoffs last season but fell to pass-happy Kinston 30-7 in the East Region finals and were nipped 44-42 by the 6A Firebirds on the road.

• WRH and ED facing Clinton. • North Duplin facing Lakewood, Hobbton and East Bladen • ND, JK and WRH will play Midway, a team with talent and high aspirations. • JK facing 7A Southern Wayne. • ED traveling to Jacksonville to face a team that went 15-1 last fall. • WRH hosting Kinston, which the ’Dawgs lost to by a deuce in ’25.

ED from page B1 vying for the two guard slots. Junior Smeja Scott and senior Greyson Williams will play tight end. Brayden Jones, a sophomore, won the starting quarterback job shortly after DJ Davis, the potential quarterback, transferred to Harrells Christian Academy three weeks before the season opener. “He’s done some good things so far, but he has to keep working and getting better,” Holley said of Jones. ED could put the ball in the air more, given that 6-foot-5 Dominic Hall will be at split end. “He’s going to be a player you have to watch,” Holley said. “It will be interesting to see him go up and get the ball from a defender. It’s an added element to the offense that we feel good about.” Speedy, undersized defense must gang tackle Team tackling is en vogue, especially as the Panthers await the return of defensive end Jacauri Hill, who broke his arm and should return in less than

“We have to keep our focus and stay prepared.”

ball team,” he said. “Our biggest guys are around 250 pounds. We have to be athletic football players and run our system.”

Battle Holley, ED coach

Stay-focused schedule

a month. He’s the most talented lineman in the trenches. Miller, Brody and Scott will get snaps on defense too as ED uses a handful of players on both sides of the ball. Also in the mix is Amir Lamont and sophomore Blake Schuddenkopf. Noah LeBlanc, Lane and Esiah Bannerman will work as linebackers. Jeremy Monk is also a ’backer who will be key, though he’s recovering from a shoulder injury. Lanier, Cruz and Josiah LeBlanc will play strong safety, while Hall, Nickolas Davis and Bonilla cover the corners. Mckinnie, who is an excellent kick and punt returner, is at free safety. “Some positions we are putting two and three guys in to evaluate them every game,” said ED defensive coordinator Seth Sandlin. Holley said the Panthers have to use technique to overcome its lack of size. “We’re just not a very big foot-

Murderer’s Row in the 21st century is not a collection of hitters from the Yankees that included Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig. It’s what Holley calls the Panthers’ nonconference foes — WRH, Princeton, Richlands, James Kenan and Jacksonville. Each of these schools has beaten ED recently. “That’s about as tough as it gets,” Holley said. “It’s murderer’s row. We have to keep our focus and stay prepared.” ED went 3-2 during that stretch last season, falling to the 6A Cardinals (12-1) and 3A Tigers (12-2) while slipping past the Wildcats 14-7 in overtime and securing solid wins against the WRH Bulldogs (17-0) and Princeton Bulldogs (42-20). Five consecutive wins gave ED an ECC title. The Panthers were upset 44-41 by Southwest Edgecombe in the second round of the 4A playoffs. ED will face its toughest ECC foes — Clinton and Pender — in Beulaville.

OK, ticket prices have increased, though it is still cheaper than nearly all sporting and musical events. It’s over by 9:15 p.m. but talked about for the next 364 days. Look for unsung and unheralded players to rise to the occasion. Because in this series it’s more about a player or team winning than it is about a team losing the game. That could change, but it hasn’t wavered far from that idea in the past. And in just about every matchup there is a football hero, though we shouldn’t confuse it with a military patriotism, since it’s more about the heart of the player than the physical act of running, tackling, blocking or kicking. In the end, rivalry games are special because one or more of “our kids” is magnified in the spotlight of a historic series. Some are even rewarded with memories that are talked about for decades.

NOTICES

Notice of Sale Tenant: Benton, Ann Unit #D61311 Tenant: Duffy, Steve & Zoey Unit #350718 Tenant: Hicks, John Unit #D66284 Tenant: Kravitz, Annette Unit #D50609 Locklear, Blair Unit #D66482

ED is expecting big things on both sides of the ball from Keeshon Mckinnie.

Register, William Unit #705010 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

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 EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

B5

Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

obituaries

Ronnie D. Taylor Jr.

Diana Hare Buford

Janice Hatcher Cavenaugh

Nov. 17, 1970 – Aug. 2, 2026

April 11, 1948 – Aug. 5, 2026

Nov. 2, 1962 – Aug. 5, 2026

Ronnie Donnell Taylor Jr., 55, affectionately known as “Jr.” by his family and “Ronnie” by his many friends, passed away surrounded by the love and memories of those whose lives he touched. Death came for him early Sunday morning, August 2, 2026. Ronnie was a hardworking man with a servant’s heart, someone who never hesitated to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. If something needed to be done, Ronnie was the first to show up and the last to leave. His strong work ethic, kind spirit, and unwavering willingness to help others will be remembered by all who knew him. Ronnie spent his younger years in the Duplin and Sampson County communities, where he developed a deep appreciation for farming and the values of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Those early years helped shape the man he would become. Later in life, Ronnie moved to the Charlotte area, where he worked as a truck driver for Pilgrim’s Farm. Eventually, the call of home brought him back to Duplin County. He joined the Town of Calypso, where he became much more than an employee. He was a trusted coworker, a dependable friend, and a familiar face whose kindness and work ethic earned the respect and love of the entire community. Ronnie is survived by his loving parents, Ronnie and Brenda Taylor; his sisters, Rhonda Smith and husband, Ralph Smith, Jr., and Jennifer Hill; and his brother, Adam Taylor. He also leaves behind his beloved children: Brandon Taylor, Kelsey Taylor, Payten Taylor, Chase Taylor, and Jarrett Taylor. His legacy continues through his cherished grandchildren: Paisleigh Taylor, Kane Taylor, Lakelynn Taylor, and Alaina Taylor. Ronnie is also survived by many loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends who became family over the years. His family finds comfort in knowing that the lessons he taught through his actions, his laughter, and his unwavering devotion to those he loved will never be forgotten. He will be deeply missed, forever loved, and always remembered. Visitation with the family took place Friday, August 7, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints, Mount Olive Ward, beginning at noon with funeral services which followed at 1:00 p.m. A private burial was after the service at the Taylor Family Cemetery in the White Flash Community in Duplin. Tyndall’s handled the service.

Diana Rose Hare Buford, 78, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, at the home she shared with her husband in the Brock’s Chapel section near Mount Olive. She had been employed at Guilford East in Kenansville in the laboratory. Diana worshipped the Lord at Warsaw Free Will Holiness Church. A service of remembrance will be held Saturday, August 15, at noon at Warsaw Free Will Holiness Church. Officiating will be the Rev. Albert Howard. Burial will take place at the Isaac James Frederick Cemetery. The family will receive friends and relatives at the church on Saturday, and at other times at the Buford home. Diana leaves behind her husband, Jesse B. Buford, Jr.; their children, William Joseph Cavenaugh and wife, Kristi, of Texas, Tammy Jeanette Frederick of Kenansville, Michael Frederick and wife, Tammie, of Kenansville, Sabrina Rose Jones and husband, Jamie, of Kenansville, Vangie Buford of Texas, Ed Buford of New Hampshire, Greg Coltren of Raleigh, Mandy Carraway and husband, Greg of Goldsboro, Melissa Frederick of Virginia, Oweida Frederick of Detroit, Vance Frederick of Warsaw, Ronald Frederick of Detroit, and Willie Lee Frederick of Warsaw; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and other relatives and friends. She is also survived by sisters, Gloria Southerland of Kenansville and Judy Dixon. Those who have preceded her in death include a daughter, Jennifer Newkirk; her parents, Willie James Hare and Mary Ruth Hare; sisters, Mary Whaley and Margaret Hare; and stepchildren, Delmas Frederick, James Frederick, Alonzo Frederick, and Geneva Frederick. Flowers are welcome to the service, and should be delivered to 180 Ike Frederick Lane, Kenansville, NC (home of Sabrina and Jamie Jones); however, those wishing to make a memorial gift are asked to consider her church, Warsaw Free Will Holiness.

Janice Hatcher Cavenaugh, age 63, left this earthly life for her eternal rest with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, August 5, 2026. She was born on November 2, 1962, in New Hanover County; the daughter of the late Walter and Louise Bradshaw Hatcher. Janice was also preceded in death by her brothers Tony Ray Hatcher and Glenn Hatcher. Janice was a member of The Church at Pin Hook, where she loved her church family and was loved in return. Surviving to cherish her memory is her best friend and devoted husband of 38 years Orvis Glenn Cavenaugh of the home; daughter Kayla Long and husband Michael of Wallace; son Corey Glenn Cavenaugh and wife Allie of Jacksonville; grandchildren Grayson Long, Dalton Long, Wynston Long, Colton Long, Nathan Long, Nicholas Long and his girlfriend RaeAnna Fox and John Michael Long; great grandchildren Sofia Long and Ava Long; sister Donna H. Batts and husband Jimmy; brothers Harold Hatcher and wife Barbara and Ronnie Hatcher; sister-in-law Cathy Hatcher; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that loved Janice dearly. Janice was a loving wife and caring mother, grandmother and sister. She was a simple lady who enjoyed the simplest things in life, but her greatest joy was her family. With a big heart and sweet spirit, Janice loved everybody and was always willing to help others. Janice was very proud of her family, especially her grandchildren. They were the apple of her eyes. Being a friend to all, Janice had a strong yet gentle and loving presence to all who were blessed to know her. Most of all, Janice loved the Lord and served Him with all her heart. She will surely be missed but never forgotten. Funeral service will be held at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, August 7, 2026, at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home, Wallace Chapel with Pastor David Walker and Pastor Buster Price officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the funeral service on Friday evening.

Kenneth Edwin Bradbury Jan. 7, 1958 – Aug. 16, 2026 The family will have a memorial get-together; they will announce it at a later date. Kenneth Edwin Bradbury, age 68, died Sunday, August 16, 2026, at home. He is survived by his wife, Susan L. Bradbury of Beulaville; daughter, Danyell Bradbury-Britton of Grayland, WA; son, Donald Bradbury of Jacksonville; mother, Mary Bradbury of OH; sisters, Diane Olson of WI, Becky Creed of OH; brothers, Gary Bradbury of MD, Ronald Bradbury of OH; eight grandchildren; and three greatgrandchildren.

Natalie Marie Frederick May 6, 1982 – Aug. 9, 2026 Natalie Marie Frederick, 44, of Warsaw, NC, passed away August 9, 2026, at her residence. Funeral service will be at noon on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Kenansville Eastern Missionary Baptist Association (KEMBA) in Warsaw. Public viewing will be from 11:00 am to noon (one hour prior to the service). Interment following the service at Devotional Gardens in Warsaw.

SPONSORED BY QUINN MCGOWEN FUNERAL HOME

Kay Brinkley Aug. 14, 1951 – Aug. 7, 2026 Kay Lynette Powell Brinkley departed her earthly life on the afternoon of Friday, August 7, 2026, while a resident of the Gardens of Rose Hill. Born on August 14, 1951, she is the daughter of the late James Frederick Powell and Wilma Irene Bond Powell. Also preceding her in death are her sister—Thelma Powell; brother—Carl Powell; and close friends—Retha McCoy and Charlotte Dixon. Left to cherish her memory are her son—Adam Hunt of Wallace; husband—James Brinkley of Wallace; Adam’s father John Wesley “Frankie” Hunt, Jr. of Wallace; and stepson—Jason Brinkley of Burgaw. Mrs. Brinkley was born in Pender County and received her public education there. She later went to school to become a nail technician and spent time in this profession, while working also at Chloride in Burgaw for a period of time. Her main joy in life was taking care of her family as a homemaker. She was known as a loving mother and a sweet and kind lady. Along with some who knew her well, she referred to herself as “a five-foot stick of dynamite” and sometimes “with a short fuse”. A funeral service to celebrate her life is set for 2:00 pm on August 12, 2026, with a visitation prior to the service at 1:00 pm in the chapel of Padgett Funeral Home in Wallace, NC. The family will be assisted by Padgett Funeral Home of Wallace.

Carolyn Taylor Feb. 23, 1939 – Aug. 11, 2026 Faison - Carolyn Lloyd Carter Taylor, 87, passed away Tuesday, August 11, 2026. She was born February 23, 1939, in Duplin County, NC, to the late Elvin J Carter and Lillian Lloyd Carter. Visitation will begin at 12:00 pm, Friday, August 14, 2026, at Community Funeral Home of Warsaw. A funeral service will begin at 1:00 pm in the funeral home chapel and a graveside will conclude the service at 3:30 pm in Onslow Memorial Park. Mrs. Taylor is survived by sons, David Taylor and wife, Janet of Clinton and Billy Taylor and wife, Tiffany of Faison, sister, Tonya Fisher of Wilmington, grandchildren, Zachary Taylor, Lakanne Taylor, and Victoria Taylor, and great grandchildren, Zander, Khloe, Sophia, Hattie Grace, Gannon, Jameson, Silar, Avery, Haiden, Hunter, and Henry. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Taylor was preceded in death by husband, Victor Taylor and brother, Gene Carter.

Paula Patricia (“Pat”) Owen Williams Feb. 24, 1937 – Aug. 11, 2026 Paula Patricia (“Pat”) Owen Williams, age 89, of Wallace, NC, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2026, surrounded by the comfort of her loved ones. She was born on February 24, 1937, in Wallace to John Paul and Fannie Jane Johnson Owen. A lifelong citizen of Duplin County, Pat graduated from Wallace High School in 1955. After receiving her bachelor’s degree from the Women’s College of the University of North Carolina (later renamed to UNC Greensboro) in 1959, Pat was married to Snyder Franklin Williams on August 30, 1959. She then became a Home Economics teacher at James Kenan High School in Warsaw, NC, and welcomed her son, Franklin Owen (“Little Frank”) Williams, in 1961. Pat later went on to own and operate a small ceramics shop at her home. Throughout her life, Pat was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother and member of the Oak Plain Presbyterian Church community. Pat was the quintessential Southern homemaker. In her free time, she enjoyed creating art in various media, including painting, sewing, knitting/ crocheting, and ceramics. Her famous sourdough bread and pickle trays were a highlight of every potluck and family reunion. Weather and wildlife permitting, she maintained a bountiful vegetable garden and blooming landscape. A lover of all animals, she was an avid birdwatcher and never let a stray animal go hungry. Pat appreciated hard work and supported her farming community by frequently bringing lemonade and lunch to her husband, her son, and their farm crew. She was also involved in the broader community; as a breast cancer survivor herself, she participated in a knitting program for breast cancer patients and was engaged in various volunteer and donation programs through her church. As family and heritage was important to her, Pat dedicated much of her life to maintaining relationships with her cousins and extended family. She was a doting grandmother and caregiver to her granddaughters, encouraging early education and teaching them traditional life skills such as garment sewing, cooking, and gardening. Pat leaves to cherish her memory her husband of 67 years, Franklin; her son, Franklin (Jo Ann); two granddaughters, Laura Jane Ferguson (Tyler) and Mary Beth Sowers (Tyler); and two great-grandchildren, Henry Dallas Sowers and Virginia Graham Ferguson. A funeral service will be held at Oak Plain Presbyterian Church on Saturday, August 15, 2026, at 11:00 AM with a graveside service to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Pat’s honor to Oak Plain Presbyterian Church at 438 Hall Pond Rd., Rose Hill, NC 28458, and to The V Foundation for Cancer Research. Pat will remain forever in our hearts.

More obituaries on page B6

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Walter Cornelious Phipps June 18, 1957 – Aug. 13, 2026 Walter Cornelious Phipps, 69, passed from his earthly life Thursday, August 13, 2026. He was born June 18, 1957, in Wilmington, the son of Johnnie C. Phipps and Maggie Earlene Zurcher Phipps. In addition to his parents, Walter was preceded in death by his son, Paul Phipps. He is survived by his wife, Janet Dexter Phipps; sons, James Phipps (Nichole) and James Barbee (Mitzi); daughter, Caitlin Barbee (Matt Wilson); grandson, Jack Dexter and many additional grandchildren; brother, George

Marilyn Raynor Johnson Mitchell Nov. 2, 1952 – Aug. 11, 2026 Marilyn Raynor Johnson Mitchell, age 73, of Mount Olive and formerly of Wallace, NC, left this earthly life for her eternal rest on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, from ECU Health in Greenville. She was born on November 2, 1952, in Duplin County, NC; the daughter of Jeanette Mobley Raynor of Wallace and the late Benjamin “Ben” Raynor.

Phipps; and many extended family and friends. Walter lived a life defined by a genuine dedication to helping others. He proudly served his country through his time in the Army and continued that commitment throughout his career with the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction. He found great fulfillment in sharing his knowledge and experiences with others, including spending time as an in-service instructor at James Sprunt Community College. Always looking for the next adventure, Walter enjoyed many hobbies, including cruising, golfing, riding motorcycles, flying drones and spending time with family. He also enjoyed the fellowship and brotherhood he developed with the Atkinson Masonic Lodge. His legacy lives on through the lessons he shared, the friendships he built, and the memories he leaves behind. A service to celebrate Walter’s life will be at 6:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Quinn McGowen Funeral Home Burgaw Chapel. The family will receive friends at the funeral home following the service. A full obituary will be forthcoming. Surviving in addition to her mother is her husband Jimmy Mitchell of the home; her son Johnny Johnson and wife Cindy of Magnolia; her daughter Jennifer Malpass and husband Steven of Magnolia; grandsons Zack Johnson and Johnathon Williford; granddaughter Katleen Williford; 1 great grandson; 1 great granddaughter; 4 sisters Joanne Willis of Wallace, Connie Johnson of Wallace, Pansy Raynor of Wallace, Dorothy Brown of Beulaville; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that loved Marilyn dearly. Marilyn was a loving wife and caring daughter, mother, grandmother and sister. She was a simple lady who enjoyed the simple things of life. She loved life and lived it to its fullest. Marilyn will surely be missed, but treasured memories of her will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Memorial service will be held at 4 p.m. on Monday, August 17, 2026, at Corinth Baptist Church, 1107 Cornwallis Rd, Teachey, NC 28464, with Pastor Phil Eakins officiating.

Hayden Panettiere, who starred in television series ‘Heroes,’ ‘Nashville,’ dead at 36 She was open about her battles with depression, anxiety and addiction The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — Hayden Panettiere, star of popular television series including “Heroes” and “Nashville,” has died. She was 36. Panettiere’s father, Skip, announced the actor’s death in a statement provided to ABC News on Sunday. “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen,” his statement said. No cause of death was announced, and a publicist for Hayden Panettiere did not immediately respond to an email from The Associated Press. Panettiere, who would have turned 37 Friday, began her career as a child actor in commercials and soap operas. Her role as a cheerleader with superpowers in “Heroes” propelled her to fame in 2006, with the series revolving around the mantra “Save the cheerleader, save the world.” “I think ‘Heroes’ is really hot because it’s just a really great combination of everything that people love — they love reality, they love sci-fi and things like X-Men where they get to dream of something bigger,” Panettiere told The Associated Press in 2008. “And at the core of it are these human stories that people can relate to, very rugged. And it’s just grabbed everyone in every age group.” She went on to win three Teen Choice Awards for that role and was a Grammy Award nominee for a children’s spo-

JORDAN STRAUSS / AP PHOTO

Hayden Panettiere arrives at the premiere of “Blonde,” in September 2022 in Los Angeles. ken word album recorded a few years after the release of the animated movie “A Bug’s Life.” Panettiere later played a brash country upstart opposite Connie Britton on “Nashville,” which aired on ABC for four seasons before being canceled and revived on CMT. She did her own singing in the show, which scored some hits on country charts, spawned U.S. tours and earned Panettiere two supporting actress Golden Globe nominations. Panettiere had 11 songs recorded for “Nashville” appear on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs charts during the show’s run, including two featuring Britton. Panettiere’s younger brother, Jansen, who was also an actor, died of a heart condition in 2023, at age 28. She had been open about her struggles with alcohol addiction and depression, including after the birth of her daughter with Ukrainian boxer Wladimir Klitschko in 2014. In an interview with podcaster Jay Shetty after her memoir came out in May, Panettiere talked about the custody arrangement for her

11-year-old daughter, who lives full-time with Klitschko in Ukraine. News of the 2018 decision prompted headlines about Panettiere giving up custody of her daughter. “I think there’s been this very common misconception that I just gave up my child,” she said. “That could not be farther from the truth.” Panettiere said Klitschko suggested their daughter live with him full-time when the child was 2 as Panettiere struggled with mental health challenges and addiction. She said she was in a “horrible cycle for years of battling depression and anxiety and alcoholism and substance abuse” while “just trying to find my way back, my way out of the darkness.” She entered rehab in 2015, while filming “Nashville.” “I was the one who put myself in the first treatment center. I was drowning,” she said in a 2023 interview with Women’s Health magazine. On Shetty’s podcast, Panettiere recalled the explosion of her fame when she was cast on “Heroes,” including the first time she was tracked by the paparazzi. When she’d imagined the moment as a younger actress, she’d planned to look chic. Instead, she said, “it was just sheer terror.” Panettiere also appeared in two of the “Scream” movies, starred as the title character in the 2009 film “I Love You Beth Cooper” and played the young daughter of a football coach in “Remember the Titans.” She had spoken positively about her experience filming “Remember the Titans,” saying she felt so similar to the character she played — Sheryl Yoast, the opiniated, football-loving daughter of Will Patton’s Coach Bill Yoast.

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WHAT’S HAPPENING Justice Department creates a new pathway to restore gun rights for some convicted felons The Justice Department has finalized a rule that will pave the way for people who’ve been barred from owning firearms because of criminal convictions to apply to have their gun rights reinstated. The process launched by newly confirmed Attorney General Todd Blanche is a victory for Second Amendment advocates who have long pushed for nonviolent people with felony convictions to be given a pathway to regain their legal right to own firearms. Officials say people who have been convicted of violent crimes, registered sex offenders, people living in the country illegally and others whom officials have deemed to pose a danger to society will be denied “absent extraordinary circumstances.”

U.S. school vaccination rates inch down yet again, exemptions reach record high U.S. kindergarten vaccination rates have declined again, with exemptions reaching a record high. Federal data released Monday shows 4.2% of children are exempted from vaccine requirements, up from 3.6% the previous year. It marks the fourth consecutive year of rising exemption rates, mostly due to nonmedical reasons. Experts blame confusion in vaccination recommendations. The CDC reported a slight drop in measles-mumps-rubella shots, and that vaccination rates for polio and other diseases also are falling. The U.S. is experiencing its worst measles year since 1991. Some state health officials are urging parents to vaccinate their children as schools can be hot spots for outbreaks.

ABC sues FCC over challenge to broadcast licenses ABC has filed a lawsuit against the FCC, alleging violation of its First Amendment rights. Tuesday’s lawsuit was a sharp escalation of the network’s battle against what it sees as the administration’s efforts to police its content. FCC Chair Brendan Carr has defended his agency’s actions, saying broadcasters have a duty to “operate in the public interest.” The FCC launched a review of eight ABC local broadcast licenses well before they expire. The order came after a joke by ABC host Jimmy Kimmel infuriated President Donald Trump.

PJ WARD-BROWN / STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

Republican senatorial candidate Michael Whatley, left, and state Sen. Carl Ford (R-Stanly) watch sheep judging at the Farm Bureau Livestock Arena in Albemarle on Saturday.

Whatley vows to fight for farm markets in Stanly stop The U.S. Senate candidate said police groups across the state have endorsed him Stanly News Journal staff ALBEMARLE — Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley said Saturday he will push the administration to protect export markets for North Carolina farmers and cast his race against former Gov. Roy Cooper as a

polls that have shown Cooper ahead. Whatley said he has visited all 100 counties and that Cooper “has just not visited” Stanly County. “The fact is, the people of North Carolina want a fighter,” Whatley said. He said he would fight for farmers, small-business owners, manufacturers, families and safer communities, and he said Cooper would fight for criminals, “illegal aliens” and “men who want to play in girls’ sports and go in women’s locker rooms.” On a Cooper campaign ad

Stanly commissioners to consider updated transportation plan “I know we’ve been working on this thing for a couple years now, so thanks for all your hard work.” Chairman Scott Efird

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choice over who will fight for the state. Whatley spoke at the Farm Bureau Livestock Arena, where he also watched livestock judging. Asked about retaliatory tariffs that have hit North Carolina pork, soybeans, poultry, tobacco and cotton, he said he would “fight every single day” for market access for tobacco, corn, soy “or anything else here in North Carolina” and “push the administration very aggressively on that.” He did not address recent

Plan includes numerous transportation recommendations By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — Stanly County commissioners will consider adopting an updated long-range transportation plan Sept. 8 after reviewing more than 130 recommendations covering highways, transit, bicycle routes and pedestrian improvements. At its Aug. 3 meeting, the board received an overview

of the Stanly County Comprehensive Transportation Plan (CTP) from Lee Snuggs, director of the Rocky River Rural Planning Organization, and N.C. Department of Transportation representatives Temilope Animashaun and Roger Castillo. A public hearing will be held before commissioners consider adoption at their next regular meeting. The CTP is a needs-based plan looking 25 to 30 years into the future. It identifies existing and anticipated See PLAN, page A5

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“Roy Cooper, as the governor and the attorney general of North Carolina, was an abject failure at keeping North Carolina communities and families safe.” Michael Whatley defending his law enforcement record, Whatley said he has the endorsements of the Fraternal Order of Police, the Police Benevolent Association, the State Troopers Association “and sheriffs from one end of the state to the other because they know that I will back the blue.”

inside High school football games start Friday. Turn to Sports to get the full rundown of the action.

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

WEDNESDAY

8.19.26 #137

Arts Council offers virtual workshop on artist grants An upcoming session will explain how local artists can apply for grants By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

“Join the conversation” 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

ALBEMARLE — A virtual workshop scheduled for Tuesday will give Stanly County artists information about applying for grants of up to $3,000 to support their professional development. On Monday, the Stanly County Arts Council announced that applications are open for the 2026-27 Artist Support Grant program. The 5:30 p.m. Zoom workshop will explain the application process. Those interested in attending must call the Arts Council of Moore County at 910-692-2787 by Monday to reserve a spot. The session will be recorded and posted at mooreart.org after Aug. 28, then a second workshop will be held in person at 5:30 p.m. Sept. 15 at the Arts Council Galleries in Southern Pines. Reservations for that session must be made by Sept. 14 through the same phone number. The program is open to artists in all disciplines who

“Artists at any stage of their careers are eligible to apply for ASG in all disciplines, such as visual art, crafts, music, film, writing and dance.” Stanly County Arts Council live in Region 12, which comprises Anson, Montgomery, Moore, Richmond, Stanly and Union counties. “Artists at any stage of their careers are eligible to apply for ASG in all disciplines, such as visual art, crafts, music, film, writing and dance,” the Stanly County Arts Council said in a news release. Awards range from $500 to $3,000 and can support projects designed to advance an artist’s professional career. “Types of fundable projects include the creation of new work, purchase of equipment and supplies, professional development workshops, travel support for expenses associated with a professional opportunity such as participating in an exhibition or a conference, and development of pro-

motional materials such as brochures and websites,” the council said. Applicants must be at least 18, be U.S. citizens or permanent residents and have lived in one of the six counties for at least one year. Those enrolled in a degree or certificate program are not eligible. The grants do not require matching funds, and up to half of an award may be used for artist fees. Funded projects must take place from Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2027. Applications — available at stanlycountyartscouncil.org — are due by 5 p.m. Oct. 9 and may be submitted in person or by mail to the Arts Council of Moore County, which administers the regional program, or by email to acmc@mooreart.org. For more information, contact Stanly County Arts Council Executive Director Renee VanHorn at stanlycountyartscouncil1974@gmail.com or the Arts Council of Moore County at 910-692-2787 or acmc@mooreart.org. Recent Stanly County recipients include Janet Borchardt in 2026, Eli Williams in 2025, and Susan Lackey and Richard Cutright Jr. in 2023.

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Appeals court sides with Trump in fight over subpoena of gender-affirming care provider A divided court ruled the administration can align healthcare enforcement with its policy priorities By Sudhin Thanawala The Associated Press

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PRESIDENT DONALD Trump’s goal of ending gender-affirming care is not improper and cannot be the basis for quashing a subpoena issued by the Justice Department against a provider of medical treatment for transgender youth, a divided federal appeals court ruled last Friday. The Justice Department announced last year that it had issued more than 20 subpoenas to doctors and clinics that provide gender-affirming care as part of an effort to investigate healthcare fraud. Federal judges have quashed many of the subpoenas as illegitimate efforts to intimidate providers into ending care. In a 2-1 decision, a panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said the efficacy and long-term risks of the treatments are “uncertain,” and the president has the power to align the Justice Department’s enforcement priorities with his broader policy goals. “Every President has law enforcement priorities, just as every President has signature policies (often, the former are components of the latter),” Judge Carlos Bea wrote. Bea, a nominee of Republican President George W. Bush, was joined in the opin-

“We’re ready to continue defending one of the most fundamental principles of healthcare: every patient’s right to confidential medical care.” Adrien Leavitt, ACLU attorney ion by Daniel Bress, a Trump nominee. They reversed a ruling that quashed the subpoena against telemedicine provider QueerDoc, sending the case back to the district court to consider other arguments. The subpoena seeks QueerDoc’s personnel files, billing documents, communications with drug manufacturers and records of patients who were prescribed puberty blockers or hormone therapy, among other information, according to the 9th Circuit decision. American Civil Liberties Union attorney Adrien Leavitt, who represented Washington state-based QueerDoc, said the ACLU would continue fighting the subpoena in district court. QueerDoc has also argued the subpoena is overbroad and burdensome. The Justice Department has said it has reason to believe the company may be misleading people about puberty blockers and hormones. “We’re ready to continue defending one of the most fun-

damental principles of healthcare: every patient’s right to confidential medical care,” Leavitt said in a statement. He said the San Francisco-based 9th Circuit was the first appeals court to weigh in on the subpoenas. Trump has signed one executive order defining sex as only male or female — and as unchangeable — and another that seeks to end federal funding of gender-affirming care for patients under 19. The latter order also directs the Justice Department to “prioritize investigations” into violations of a drug safety law by “any entity that may be misleading the public about long-term side effects of chemical and surgical mutilation.” Gender-affirming care includes a range of medical and mental health services to support a person’s gender identity, including when it’s different from the sex they were assigned at birth. It encompasses counseling, medications that block puberty and hormone therapy to produce physical changes as well as surgeries to transform chests and genitals, though those are rare for minors. Most major medical groups say access to the treatment is important for those with gender dysphoria and see gender as existing along a spectrum. The 9th Circuit majority called discussion around gender-affirming care “an unsettled scientific debate” and said the Trump administration could also justify its opposition to the treatment on ethical or philosophical grounds. A portrait of President Donald Trump hangs on the Justice Department building in Washington, D.C., earlier this year.

J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE / AP PHOTO

STANLY

happening Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Stanly County.

Aug. 20 Landmark Lounge: Center/Stanly Theatre Tour 5:30-7:30 p.m. A guided tour of the historic theater, with a $10 suggested donation. Space is limited; register ahead. Center/Stanly Theatre 225 W. Main St. Albemarle

Aug. 21 Locust Monthly Cruise-in 5-8 p.m. Third Friday cruise-in in the town center, March through October. Bring lawn chairs. Locust Town Center 186 Ray Kennedy Drive Locust

Aug. 22 Main Street UMC Community Fun Day 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. A first-year community day with a water slide, food, live DJ, crafts, games, live Bible stories and Italian ice. Main St. United Methodist Church 1100 W. Main St. Albemarle

Aug. 23 Hymn Sing and Ice Cream Churn Off 3 p.m. Homemade ice cream is welcome for judging. Locust Presbyterian Church 607 W. Main St. Locust

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

Net zero is dead and gone

This goal was pure virtuesignaling, and it never made any practical sense.

IT WAS ONLY a few years ago when the climate change alarms and green energy fad were all the rage at the White House and corporate boardrooms. Former President Joe Biden’s policies were all tilted to ending fossil fuels, and many of America’s biggest corporations embraced the concept of net-zero fossil fuels. This was the movement during the Biden years to eliminate virtually all oil, natural gas and coal production and replace these energy sources with windmills, solar panels and electric vehicles. This goal was pure virtue-signaling, and it never made any practical sense. Roughly 70% of American energy comes from fossil fuels, and only about 10% comes from “green energy.” Studies showed that the initiative would have decimated the U.S. economy: millions of American jobs lost, hundreds of billions of dollars of lost GDP, and much higher energy costs for American businesses and families. It was an “unaffordability” project at a time when Americans are demanding lower, not higher, costs. It was all pain and no gain. Even if the U.S. had reduced its fossil fuel usage, it would have had only a tiny impact on total global emissions because China and India were opening up far more coal plants than America was shutting down. Washington spent hundreds of billions of dollars on taxpayer subsidies to promote wind and solar, yet it remained as stalled out as the

EV plants that are shutting down across the country. Good news: The net-zero movement is dead — or at least on life support. A new study that I coauthored for Unleash Prosperity found that Wall Street’s once-aggressive embrace of net-zero climate policies has been reversed. Six of the largest U.S. banks — JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley and Wells Fargo — have completely withdrawn from the Net-Zero Banking Alliance. What a reversal this is: The net-zero movement once included a powerful coalition of financial institutions representing 140 member banks and $75.5 trillion in assets. There are a few financial institutions — such as Morgan Stanley and State Street — that still embrace some of these radical regulations, but not many. Much of this never made sense given that AI and data center energy needs will double or triple our electric power demands over the next two decades. That will require an all-of-the-above approach to meet those needs and to keep power affordable for our businesses and families. It also made no sense because America has the cleanest coal and 600 years of reserves — more than any other nation. We also have several hundred years of clean and cheap natural gas, which is critical to keeping the

lights on, American factories humming and air conditioning running. Of course, to meet those energy needs, we also need to be using more nuclear power, which produces little to no greenhouse gas emissions. Good news on that front: For the first time in decades, Americans now support nuclear power as well. The radical environmental groups haven’t given up, and they will surely try another comeback. They’re now blaming forest fires on climate change — even though globally there has been no upward trend in recent decades despite the deadly fires in North America this summer. One country that hasn’t backed off the green energy fad is Germany. What a debacle. Once the manufacturing and engineering hub of Europe, the country has deindustrialized without access to cheap fossil fuels. It’s spent nearly half a trillion dollars on “Energiewende” wind turbines while shutting off much of its natural gas usage. Its power costs are now nearly double what the rest of Europe and the U.S. companies pay. Factories are shutting down. The collapse of the net-zero movement here at home is a victory for economic reality, common sense and American energy abundance. Stephen Moore is co-founder of Unleash Prosperity and a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

COLUMN | MARK MINNELLA

America has a Man problem: when they leave the workforce, we all pay the price The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033.

TOO MANY American men are spending their prime working years outside the workforce, and the cost reaches far beyond lost income. In the mid-1950s, 97.4% of prime-age men, ages 25 to 54, participated in the labor force. In July 2026, that number was 89.2%. Put another way, the share of men in their prime working years outside the labor force has risen from roughly 1 in 38 to more than 1 in 9. I find those numbers troubling because work is more than a paycheck. Work brings structure to a day. It demands discipline and perseverance. It gives a man the opportunity to produce something, solve something, build something and provide for someone other than himself. Work responsibility is one of the ways men develop purpose and become connected to family and community. When large numbers of able-bodied men disconnect from work, the consequences ripple through our society. Too often, detachment from work causes detachment from responsibility, marriage, family formation and community. A Bureau of Labor Statistics study of men ages 30 to 36 found that among those who had not worked in the prior year, 70% had never married and 30.6% lived in a household with a parent. The same study found that 40.9% of nonworkers said health limited their ability to work, recognizing there are legitimate reasons some men cannot work, and compassion demands that we recognize them. That still leaves close to 60% who chose not to work. But compassion should not require us to ignore a larger cultural problem. For too long, our culture has been uncomfortable with many virtues associated with responsible manhood. Strength is too easily confused with aggression. Leadership is treated as

domination. Provision can be dismissed as antiquated. Sacrifice, perseverance and the responsibility to protect and provide are sometimes treated as though they belong to another era. We need to embrace the fact that there is nothing toxic about a man accepting responsibility. For Christians, that responsibility is not merely a cultural tradition. It is rooted in Scripture. Before there was a paycheck, a corporation or even a fallen world, God gave Adam work to do. Genesis 2:15 says God placed him in the garden “to tend and keep it.” Work was part of God’s design before sin entered the world. The Fall made work difficult; it did not make work meaningless. Scripture also makes a distinction our public conversation often misses. Second Thessalonians 3:10 says, “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.” It does not say cannot work. There is a world of difference between the man who cannot work and the man who will not. First Timothy 5:8 likewise makes providing for one’s household a serious responsibility. That is not a license for arrogance or domination. Biblical manhood is about responsibility, sacrifice, service, stewardship and strength under control. I also will not blame society for every man who chooses not to work. Men have a choice. A culture can lower expectations, but it cannot force a man to accept them. Each man is responsible for whether he accepts responsibility or avoids it. We should be able to hold two truths at once. First, our culture needs to do a better job encouraging responsible manhood, and second, men need to stop waiting for the culture’s permission before acting like … well, a responsible man. There is little reason to assume this problem

simply corrects itself. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033. However, another government program won’t change this trend’s direction. We need fathers teaching sons that responsibility is not a burden to escape but a privilege to carry. We need schools, churches, businesses, coaches and communities willing to tell boys that becoming a man means becoming useful to others. Most importantly, men themselves must decide that regardless of what the culture celebrates, they will work, build, provide, protect, serve and lead with character. The culture may change what it expects from men, but God has not. His expectations of responsibility, stewardship, sacrifice and provision live on. America does not merely need more men on payrolls. It needs more men who understand that their lives are supposed to count for something beyond themselves. The answer to men retreating from responsibility is not to continuously lower the bar until uselessness becomes the norm. Instead, we need to raise it. Call men to work. Call them to provide. Call them to build, protect, serve and lead. America does not need responsible manhood redefined downward. It needs responsible men willing to stand up. Mark Minnella was co-founder of the National Association of Christian Financial Consultants and “More Than Money” and is the author of “The Wall Street Awakening.”

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

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Trump orders Pentagon to scale back joint exercises with South Korea South Korea declined to aid U.S. efforts against Iran, prompting the military exercise reductions

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump ordered the Pentagon on Sunday to scale back annual joint military exercises with South Korea, saying the ally declined to help with the war against Iran and citing his good relationship with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. Trump said in a social media post that the exercises, which began Monday, are not only costly but “send a signal that is totally inappropriate and hostile” to North Korea, which he said “has been unthreatening and respectful” during his time in the White House. “Therefore, and based on the fact that it is too late to cancel, I have instructed Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to substantially reduce the Joint Military Exercises!” Trump wrote. The president added that he recently asked South Korea’s president if they would join the U.S. in the “denuclearization” of Iran, “and they said, ‘No thanks!’” The move is the latest example of the president appearing to turn against an ally in favor of a leader that previous administrations have cast as an adversary. Trump and others in his administration have also railed against NATO allies over perceived lack of support for his war against Iran, even as they seek to confront an increasingly aggressive Russia in the Baltic region. It is also a sharp turnaround from how his administration has viewed South Korea in recent months. In May, Hegseth praised the longtime ally for its “commitment to increase defense spending” and its “leadership in assuming primary responsibility for the security of the Korean Peninsula” during a meeting at the Pentagon. “It demonstrates alliance burden-sharing that all of America’s partners would do well to follow,” the defense secretary added.

JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO

President Donald Trump gestures as he boards Air Force One at Morristown Airport on Sunday in Morristown, New Jersey. the summertime Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises reinforce “the role of the alliance as the linchpin for regional peace and security” and reaffirm “the ironclad commitment between the United States and the Republic of Korea to defend their homelands.” The exercises are one of the two main combined drills conducted by the South Korean and U.S. militaries annually, along with their springtime training. U.S. and South Korean forces were expected to practice joint operations in complex scenarios, including a live-fire exercise to test joint precision targeting and maneuver, a wet gap crossing, and distribution of prepositioned military equipment, according to the U.S. military. South Korea’s Defense Ministry confirmed that the exercises began on Monday as planned. The joint training started days after North Korea resumed ballistic missile testing activities in defiance of U.N. bans. Trump’s decision was sharply criticized by Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, a former Navy pilot, who said that “hollowing out these joint exercises is shortsighted and a mistake” in a social media post made just hours after the president’s own post. Earlier this month, South Korea, the U.S. and Japan detected the launches of two ballistic missiles from North Korea in what were the North’s first ballistic weapons testing activities since late June. The missiles landed in the waters off North Korea’s east coast.

What U.S. military says about joint exercises

North Korea threatens strong response

The 11 days of exercises involving 18,000 South Korean soldiers were designed to beef up readiness against North Korean threats. The U.S. military has said

North Korea has been pushing hard to enlarge its nuclear and missile arsenals since Kim’s high-stakes diplomacy with Trump collapsed in 2019. Experts say Kim likely believes

a bigger weapons arsenal would increase his chances for wresting more concessions from the U.S. in future negotiations. North Korea on Friday threatened unspecified stern steps against the U.S. and South Korea, describing their military drills as “a rehearsal for an aggressive war” that are triggering greater instability in the region. The warning was typical of the harsh rhetoric that North Korea often deploys ahead of major U.S.-South Korean military exercises. Experts say North Korea has often used its rivals’ drills as a pretext to ramp up testing activities to modernize weapons and promote public support for the reclusive North Korean leader. Trump met with the North Korean leader three times during his first term to discuss the country’s nuclear program, most recently in 2019. Since returning to office, Trump has expressed interest in continuing those discussions. In September 2025, Kim said he held “good personal memories” of Trump and suggested he could return to talks if the U.S. drops “its delusional obsession with denuclearization” of North Korea. Trump’s announcement came a day after he posted a photo of himself standing next to North Korea’s Kim, writing that the two leaders get along great “despite the unfriendly look on this particular picture.” This is not the first time that Trump has sought to end the exercises. During his first term he also issued a surprise announcement that called the war games “provocative.” “We will be stopping the war games, which will save us a tremendous amount of money, unless and until we see the future negotiation is not going along like it should,” Trump told reporters after his 2018 meeting with Kim in Singapore.

Moroccan security forces arrest nearly 300 migrants trying to reach Spain’s Ceuta Moroccan authorities also arrested 61 locals accused of helping organize the crossing attempts

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By Akram Oubachir The Associated Press CASABLANCA, Morocco — Hundreds of migrants trying to reach the Spanish exclave of Ceuta by land and sea were arrested by Moroccan security forces, Moroccan state television reported Sunday, as authorities tightened security along the border following calls for a new mass crossing. Moroccan state broadcaster Medi 1 TV said 294 migrants from sub-Saharan Africa were arrested Saturday while attempting to enter Ceuta. Authorities also arrested 61

Moroccans accused of facilitating the migration attempts, the broadcaster reported. The attempted crossings followed a surge in social media posts calling on migrants to make their way to Ceuta, a Spanish city on Morocco’s northern coast. In response, Moroccan and Spanish authorities beefed up security presence and limited movement toward the area. The latest attempt comes two weeks after tens of thousands of would-be migrants, driven by poverty and misinformation, rushed toward Ceuta in one of the deadliest migration crises to hit the region. At least 90 people died on both sides of the border, according to official numbers, while human rights groups reported higher figures. The interior ministry did not respond to AP’s questions about

the latest arrests or the number of security personnel deployed around the border to prevent a new migration push. A senior Moroccan diplomat previously said that more than 20,000 Moroccan security personnel are deployed along the border with Ceuta each day at a cost of hundreds of millions of dollars. The diplomat was not authorized to be publicly named speaking about the issue and spoke on condition of anonymity. Thousands of migrants from across Africa and beyond travel to Morocco each year, fleeing conflict, poverty and instability and seeking a route into Europe. Many attempt to reach Ceuta or Melilla, another Spanish exclave on Morocco’s northern coast, hoping eventually to make their way to mainland Spain and better economic opportunities.

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

PLAN from page A1

MICHAEL PROBST / AP PHOTO

People gather on top of the Feldberg mountain to watch the sunset near Frankfurt, Germany, June 21, 2025.

Hidden politics of time: How clocks, calendars, now-contentious time zones came to be How industrialization and politics transformed time from natural cycles into precise systems By Deepti Hajela The Associated Press NEW YORK — It flies. It heals all wounds. It can be of the essence, and it can be money. We thrill in the best of it, lament the worst. We’re warned not to waste it, since we can’t turn it back — even as we try to make up for when it’s lost. And probably more than anything when it comes to time, most of us try to manage it — in our everyday lives and on a global scale, from the biology of our circadian rhythms to what constitutes a work day. Clocks. Calendars. Pendulums. Hourglasses. Sundials. Time zones. For something that’s been a pretty universal impulse to mark the shift of light and dark, the movement of the stars and the rhythms of the tides, the cycles of summer heat and winter cold, one might assume there’s been a universal way of measuring time. That assumption would be wrong. Take the shifting of the clock twice a year in most of the United States, once forward and then back again, a system that “moves” the time to let people enjoy daylight hours later into the evening. While people love the light, a lot of them loathe having to make the change. So much so that the House of Representatives last month overwhelmingly passed legislation calling for the shift to become permanent year-round. Its prospects for passage in the Senate aren’t high, and when the country tried it in the 1970s it was wildly unpopular and short-lived. But it continues to be brought up, an indication that the way we keep the clock counts. The methods different peoples and communities have used to track their lives haven’t existed in a vacuum. They’ve been impacted by culture, by religion, by economics and technology, by the governing principles both within nations and among them. Turns out, like pretty much anything where people are involved, there’s a politics to time. Measurements of time made up but still matter “Every measurement of time is arbitrary,” said Elizabeth Cohen, a political science professor at Boston University who has written about how we chronicle time and how it impacts the way people relate to each other. “Every deadline could have been a fraction of a second or a large increment of time different than it was,”

“But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.” Michael O’Malley, George Mason University history professor she said. “None of it is natural.” Take calendars. We use them to give a structure to our lives, but the spectrum of what that has looked like is vast through human existence. Some followed the sun, others the moon and others still a combination of both. Maybe all the months were the same length, maybe they weren’t. What we call a seven-day week might have had four, six or some other number of days in other timekeeping systems. Even today, when the main calendar in use globally is what we know as the Gregorian calendar, with its 12 months and leap years, other calendars are still consulted for religious or cultural purposes in places from Israel to Thailand. And daylight saving time? With its connection to our perceptions of what hours of light become available to us, it reflects “a desire for natural time,” said Michael O’Malley, a history professor at George Mason University. People “are outside longer, so they feel it as a connection to nature,” he said. “But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.” Culture of clock evolving It’s not just about the how. When we think about how culture evolved around time, there’s also the why. For most of human history, there were ties to the rhythms of the natural world: the phases of the moon, the rising and setting of the sun, the ebb and flow of the tides. And in agricultural societies, the importance of when to plant and when to harvest. Tracking the sun’s journey across the sky was a local endeavor. While the idea of a day broken down into 24 equal segments was important to groups like astronomers or seafarers, daily life was broken into “systems that tended to expand and contract based on the time of year and the location,” said Kevin Birth, an anthropology professor at Queens College. “But since people weren’t really traveling back and forth with any great rapidity back,” he said, “then it really didn’t matter.” Industrialization — in the form of the Industrial Revolution that started in 18th-cen-

tury England and spread — pushed people to shift notions of time. No longer was it about the sun’s cycle or the turn of the seasons. Industrial production meant schedules — people paying attention to the clock because they were due for specific shifts. “It was one of the goals of industrialization to instill in people this regular, unvarying sense of time,” O’Malley said. Contrast that to a preindustrial farmer, he said. “You could have an ethic of hard work, but that work is not going to be governed by a clock. It’s typically going to be governed by natural cues. The clock establishes this external authority that’s not you.” In the United States by the mid-1800s, another issue arose: time zones. There were more than 40 based around cities, which O’Malley said forced railroad companies to switch dynamically as trains traveled. Worried that other entities would standardize the zones and disrupt their businesses, the companies acted. “The American Railway Association got all the American railroads to agree that on Nov. 18, 1883, they would declare a four-zone system in effect in America,” O’Malley said. “And they just announced it.” Time can be cudgel It’s hardly the only occasion where the perception of time has involved national or global concerns. Take the Prime Meridian, the entirely made-up longitude line running from the North Pole to the South Pole, that divides Earth into eastern and western hemispheres and is used as the basis for global timekeeping as well as navigation. It runs through Greenwich, England, and was selected at an international conference in 1884. Was that because Greenwich was the ideal place? No, Birth said — it simply was established during “a period when the British Empire was one of the dominant empires in the world.” Time zones themselves “are about politics,” he said, pointing out that they are not divided in a standard format. Countries decide their own, and in the U.S., the individual states can decide if they observe daylight saving or not. A prime example is China, which stretches more than 3,000 miles across Asia. It has one official time zone for the country, instituted when the Communist Party took power in 1949 as a form of national unity. The entire country runs officially on Beijing time, but the reality on the ground when the sun rises in eastern China hours before it rises in western China is people adjust with their own local times for daily life, Birth said. Time can also be a tool used in a society to manage dissent and protest, Cohen said. She pointed to examples like governments instituting curfews or protesters engaging in slowdowns or strikes. “Time has a lot of power,” she said, “and people are battling over it to try and impose themselves on others or remove the yoke that has been imposed on them.”

transportation needs and serves as the first step toward making projects eligible for state prioritization and funding, but it does not commit money or guarantee that any recommendation will be built. The plan represents consensus on how the county wants its transportation system to develop. “We came before you about a year and a half to two years ago,” Snuggs said. “These plans are usually updated anywhere from 10 to 15 years. I think our plan was around 12 years old when we began the update.” Snuggs said the document is important because major projects presented to NCDOT must be included in the county’s CTP. Through public surveys, traffic analysis and reviews of possible alternatives, the update was developed during the past two years with input from municipalities, local stakeholders, the planning organization, NCDOT and residents who live, work and travel in Stanly County. The plan lists 28 highway recommendations, including proposed two-lane northern and southern bypasses around Albemarle and a bypass around Norwood intended largely to address truck traffic.

A5 Other concepts include converting sections of N.C. 24/27 to boulevards with medians and improving intersections throughout the county. Animashaun emphasized that the proposed routes and designs remain preliminary. “No funding is directly attached to any of the recommendations included in the CTP,” he said. “Therefore, the plan does not guarantee a project will be funded or constructed.” The document also recommends a park-and-ride lot along U.S. 52 Business near Henson Street in Albemarle and includes 105 bicycle and pedestrian recommendations. Those proposals range from sidewalks and bicycle lanes to multiuse paths and Carolina Thread Trail connections. Projects would undergo additional study and design if they later receive funding. The CTP may also be amended to add, change or remove recommendations as development and local priorities evolve. “I know we’ve been working on this thing for a couple years now, so thanks for all your hard work,” Chairman Scott Efird said. The Stanly County Board of Commissioners will hold its next regular meeting Sept. 8 at 6 p.m. in the Gene McIntyre Meeting Room at Stanly County Commons.

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

OBITUARIES

James Raymond Nance

Charles Max Morton

Bonnie Mullinix Springer

Aug. 16, 2026

Feb. 23, 1936 – Aug. 6, 2026

Sept. 14, 1925 – Aug. 12, 2026

Charles Max Morton, 88, of Locust, North Carolina, passed away Sunday, August 16, 2026. Funeral service will be at 11 am on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel of Locust, with Pastor Jeremy Hyde officiating. Burial will follow in the Mission Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 am until 11 am prior to the hour of service. Max is survived by his beloved wife, Myra Morton of 67 years, his children, Paula (Randy) Huneycutt, Perry (Leslie) Morton, and Lori (John) Sell; and his grandchildren, Randi (Ken) Covington, Chase (Shannon) Morton, Jessica (Jamerson) Mosby, Tucker Morton, Miranda (Ben) MacDougall, Aaron Sell, and Jack Morton; and his 9 greatgrandchildren. Max was preceded in death by his parents, John and Jane Morton, and his siblings, Selma Bowers, Rayvon Morton, Loys Morton, and Vernon (Joe) Morton. Born and raised in the Endy community and graduated from Endy High School, class 1956 as valedictorian. Max spent his life rooted in the people, places, and traditions he held dear. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and greatgrandfather whose quiet presence and steady love meant so much to his family. Max was a man who found joy in simple things. He could often be found tending to his garden, or reading his almanac, Bible, and various books on history. His curiosity and willingness to learn stayed with him throughout his life. He was an avid golfer, hunter, and fisherman. A talented and creative man, Max taught himself the crafts he loved. He created beautiful stained-glass lamps and windows, each reflecting his patience and attention to detail. He also enjoyed winemaking, another skill he taught himself and pursued with the same quiet dedication. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Tillery Compassionate Care (960 N 1st St, Albemarle, NC 28001) His life was marked not by grand gestures but by the everyday moments that become the memories a family treasures most - a garden carefully tended, a book being read in his favorite chair, something newly created by his hands, and time spent with the generations he loved. His family will remember him with gratitude and love and will carry his memory forward for generations to come.

Bonnie Mullinix Springer, 90, of Albemarle, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, at Trinity Place. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Stony Hill United Methodist Church. Visitation at 1:00, service at 2:00, officiated by Rev. Angela Burris and Pastor Jeff Hathcock. Born on February 23, 1936, in Stanly County, North Carolina, Bonnie was the daughter of the late Tom Burse “T.B.” Mullinix and Lucille Cranford Mullinix. She devoted many years of faithful service to the church, first at Cokesbury United Methodist

James Raymond Nance died peacefully at the age of 100 on August 12, 2026, at Trinity Place. A funeral service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Central United Methodist Church in Albemarle and will be officiated by the Reverend Dr. David Blankenberg. Burial will follow at Stanly Gardens of Memory. Mr. Nance, son of the late Raymond E. Nance and Mary Verdie White Nance, was born on September 14, 1925, in Asheboro, North Carolina. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Annie Velna Nance; his brother, Max Alfred Nance; and his stepmother, Katy Belle Cagle Nance, who assumed the role of his mother following his biological mother’s death when he was nine years old. Mr. Nance attended Wake Forest College and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a B.S. in Commerce. During his time at UNC, he was a member of the Student Council and President of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. Mr. Nance was also a distinguished veteran of World War II, having served with the 100th Infantry Division in France and Germany. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge, a Bronze Star Medal with a “V” device for heroic achievement, a Bronze Star Medal for meritorious achievement, three Bronze Battle Stars, and the Presidential Unit Citation. In recognition of his instrumental role in the liberation of France, he later received the French Legion of Honor Medal from the President of France. After college, Mr. Nance began working for Nance Chevrolet in Asheboro, North Carolina, and in 1949, he married Helen Faucette of Warrenton, North Carolina. He then became a Chevrolet dealer at Confederate Chevrolet in Albemarle, where he worked for 54 years before selling the dealership in 2007 and, at his wife’s insistence, retiring at the age of 82. Mr. Nance was especially proud that his dealership was frequently ranked number one in the “Customer Satisfaction” domain in the Charlotte zone. Over the years, Mr. Nance was also President of the Albemarle Lions Club, a charter member of the Albemarle Investment Club, Chairman of the Central United Methodist Church Board, Secretary of the North Carolina Automobile Dealers Association, and a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the North Carolina Automobile Dealers Association. In addition to being a scholar, a decorated veteran, a businessman, and a civic leader, Mr. Nance was a doting husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Although he was never seen without a smile, speaking about his family revealed his broadest grin, as his most cherished role in life was his role as a family man, whose legacy endures. Surviving him, in addition to his wife of 76 years, are their four children: James Edward Nance and wife Helen, Carolyn Nance Baugh and husband John, Mary Catherine Nance Ellis and husband Gene, and Susan Nance Brooks and husband Chuck. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to Central United Methodist Church in Albemarle or to the charity of the donor’s choice. Stanly Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the family.

Georgia Mae Lasley Inskeep Dec. 20, 1952 – Aug. 14, 2026 In Loving Memory of Georgia Mae Lasley Inskeep. Georgia Mae Lasley Inskeep, a fiercely loving wife, mother, Nana, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by the family she loved so dearly. Born December 20, 1952, in Keokuk, Iowa, Georgia was the daughter of George O. Lasley and Opal Richter Lasley. She attended Stanly Community College and devoted many years of her working life to serving her community as a Stanly County Land Records Specialist. But Georgia’s greatest accomplishment was never her career. It was the family she built, the love she gave, and the lives she touched along the way. She was happiest when surrounded by the people she loved, and her family was her greatest pride and joy. Her warmth, humor, strength, and fiercely independent spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Georgia had a special gift for making ordinary moments

Church in the 60s and then 32 years at Hawthorne Lane United Methodist Church, both of Charlotte, then retiring in 2023 after several years of service as a church secretary of Badin Baptist Church. Her kindness, dedication, and servant’s heart touched the lives of many. Bonnie will be remembered for her gentle spirit, quiet grace, classic southern style and charm and unwavering faith. A devoted Christian and faithful prayer warrior, she lived her life as a testament to God’s love through her compassion, humility, and steadfast encouragement of others. Soft-spoken and gracious, she found great joy in worship and music and was an active participant in every aspect of church life. She loved singing in the church choir, participating in United Methodist Women, attending Bible studies, and spending time in daily devotion and prayer. Bonnie also enjoyed reading, relaxing on her porch, playing Bingo with friends, and performing with the Singing Americans of Stanly County. She was also a devoted fan of Neil Diamond and Alan Jackson, whose music brought her many happy moments throughout the years. In addition to her parents, she

was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Henry Myron Springer, and her son, Daniel Thomas Springer. She leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory, including her daughters, Amanda Springer Hathcock and husband, Jeff, of Albemarle and Kelley Springer Adams and husband, David, of Gastonia; her daughter-in-law, Cindy Springer of Charlotte; her brothers, Ned Mullinix and wife, Ann, of Hampstead and Barry Mullinix of Albemarle; her grandchildren, Candice Stone, Jonathan Hathcock, Garrett Hazard, Adam Springer, and Ryan Springer; and her great-grandchildren, Mason Curenton, Rylen Hazard, and Lily Springer and many other beloved family members. Bonnie’s life was marked by quiet faithfulness, genuine kindness, and a heart devoted to serving both her Lord and those around her. Her legacy of love, grace, and steadfast faith will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to either Trinity Place, 24724 S. Business 52, Albemarle, NC, 28001 or to Stony Hill United Methodist Church, 28996 Stony Hill Road, Albemarle, NC 28001.

meaningful. She found joy in cooking meals for the people she loved, sewing for her family-friends-strangers, sharing stories, and simply being together with family. She cherished the comforts of home and the familiar sounds and traditions that brought people close. She lived life with an earthy authenticity and an unwavering love for the people around her. Georgia was a faithful follower of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was formally baptized on June 6th, 2026 by Pastor Matthew Sharrock as an outward expression of that lifelong faith. She loved listening to scripture, hymns, praise and worship music and attended Bethel Methodist Church for numerous years. Even when faced with the difficult final chapter of her earthly journey with ALS, Georgia met each day with remarkable courage, resilience, and faith. She never allowed her illness to define her. Instead, she continued to show those around her what strength, grace, and perseverance truly look like. Georgia leaves behind her devoted husband of 54 years, Richard D. Inskeep; her children, Anthony D. Inskeep and Marcia Wood, Angela Burleson Scaffe and her husband, Rick Scaffe, and Patrick Duane Dunston and Kelly Rosato. She was a treasured Nana to Gabriel Burleson, Carly Black and her husband, Noah, and Dylan Stewart, and a beloved Nana Georgia to Cadence Black. She is also survived by her brother, Jerry Lasley; her sisters, Linda White; Gloria Moore; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, her precious and kind hospice caregivers, and dear friends who

will carry her memory forward. Georgia was preceded in death by her beloved parents, George and Opal Lasley; her brother, John Lasley; her sister, Lois Renard; and other loved ones who welcomed her home. Georgia was also a passionate animal lover and loved and cared for numerous pets throughout her life, too numerous to mention by name. Her family takes comfort in knowing that although Georgia’s earthly journey has ended, the love she gave so freely has not. It lives on in every family recipe, every stitch sewn with care, every story remembered, every gathering around the table, and in the hearts of the people she loved. A celebration of Georgia’s life will be held at a later date to ensure distant family and friends can attend. Family and friends will gather to share memories, listen to some of her favorite music, and celebrate the remarkable woman she was. Georgia’s earthly remains will be scattered in various locations including her beloved home property in Troy, a place that held so many memories and so much of her heart. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Georgia’s memory to the American Cancer Society or ALS United, in honor of the causes that touched her life and the fight against the illnesses that affect so many families. She loved deeply, lived authentically, and left this world surrounded by the people who mattered most to her. Rest peacefully, Mama. You were deeply loved, and you always will be.

IN MEMORY

ANTHONY DAVID FRALEY FEB. 12, 1990 – AUG. 13, 2026

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Stanly News Journal at obits@ stanlynewsjournal.com

Anthony David Fraley, 36, of Albemarle, passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at his home. A funeral service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026, at the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel in Albemarle, with Pastor Wayne Lisenby officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Friday evening, prior to the service. Anthony was born on February 12, 1990, in Mecklenburg County to Michael Fraley and the late Tonya Morton. He is lovingly survived by his parents, Michael and Kathlene Fraley; his children, Felicity Fraley and her mother, Kayla Collier, and son Kayson Fraley; his brother, Joseph Fraley (Charlotte); his sisters, Erica Caragher, Amanda Denning (Michael), and LillieMae Fraley; and his special friend, Krystal Woodle. He was preceded in death by his biological mother, Tonya Morton. Anthony was a wonderful son, a devoted father, and someone who brought laughter and encouragement wherever he went. He had a love

for the outdoors and especially enjoyed camping, shooting and fishing. Music was also an important part of his life, and he loved playing whenever he had the opportunity. Those who knew Anthony will remember his contagious laugh, his sense of humor, and his ability to make those around him smile. He was a jokester at heart and simply fun to be around. He loved his family deeply, and nothing meant more to him than his children, Felicity and Kayson. Anthony had a way of encouraging others and bringing a little more joy into the lives of the people who were fortunate enough to know him. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Anthony’s memory to Will’s Place, P.O. Box 1014, Albemarle, NC 28002. Anthony’s life was far too short, but the love, laughter, and memories he shared will remain with his family and friends for years to come. His contagious laugh, encouraging spirit, and love for those closest to him will not be forgotten. Though he will be deeply missed, Anthony will be lovingly remembered each time a favorite song is played, a story brings a smile, or laughter is shared among the family and friends he loved so dearly.

STANLY SPORTS

PJ WARD-BROWN / STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

North Stanly’s Malakhi Blackmon escapes for extra yardage during an Aug. 10 scrimmage against Bonnie Cone.

Stanly teams set to kick off 2026 football season Two of the four local teams have a head-to-head matchup By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — The 2026 high school football season begins Friday with all four Stanly County varsity teams taking the field at 7 p.m. for their Week 1 matchups. Two county rivals will open against each other, while the other two local squads are set to face nonconference opponents — one on the road and one at home. West Stanly at South Stanly Playing in K.L. Young Stadi-

10

Wins by North Stanly’s football team in 2025

um, West Stanly will be looking for revenge as it visits South Stanly. The Rowdy Rebel Bulls shut out the Colts 27-0 in last season’s opener in Red Cross. West Stanly enters its second year under coach Ralph Jackson seeking to rebound from a 2-10 finish and post its first winning record since the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. The Colts went 0-5 in the Rocky Riv-

er Conference, finishing last in the league standings. Aiming for its third consecutive winning season, South Stanly is led by fourth-year coach Terry Shankle. The Bulls finished 8-3 last year and placed third in the Yadkin Valley Conference with a 5-1 record. When November arrived, both teams advanced to the second round of the state playoffs. North Stanly at Community School of Davidson Reigning YVC champion North Stanly will travel to Mecklenburg County for a season-opening rematch against Community School of Davidson. The Comets defeated the Spartans 27-21 in

New London to begin last season. North Stanly enters its fourth year under coach Chad Little looking to build on its previous 10-2 campaign, when the Comets posted a 6-1 YVC record, led all county teams in overall wins and reached the second round of the state playoffs. The Comets are also pursuing their 14th consecutive winning season. Community School of Davidson, a member of the Catawba Shores Conference, finished 7-5 last year and will look to reverse the outcome of the teams’ 2025 matchup. College Prep and Leadership Academy at Albemarle Albemarle will host College Prep and Leadership Academy

in a rematch of last year’s season opener where the Bulldogs defeated the Royals 48-14 in Jamestown. Albemarle finished 5-7 last season and placed fifth in the Yadkin Valley Conference with a 2-5 record. Despite finishing below .500, the Bulldogs advanced to the second round of the state playoffs. Led by 10th-year coach Richard Davis, Albemarle is seeking its first winning season since 2013 and its first winning conference record since finishing as YVC co-champions with North Stanly three years ago. The Royals, who compete in the Greater Triad Conference, went 1-9 in their inaugural varsity season last fall.

Hill returns to Bengals practice after injury absence The Oakboro native passed his physical By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — Former West Stanly standout B.J. Hill returned to the practice field Saturday after missing the opening weeks of Cincinnati Bengals training camp because of an undisclosed injury. The Bengals announced Saturday morning that Hill had passed his physical and was cleared to practice. The 31-year-old defensive tackle participated in drills with teammates and is on track to play in Cincinnati’s next preseason game against the Chicago Bears. “I feel good. Glad to be back,” Hill said. “Just take it day by day. That’s always my goal, one minute at a time, one second and see how I feel and just go with that.” Cincinnati placed Hill on

the active/physically unable to perform list July 25, four days before the team’s first training camp practice, and he spent roughly three weeks sidelined. Although the Bengals did not specify the injury when making the roster move, Hill dealt with a foot injury last season and underwent an ankle procedure during the offseason, according to team officials. Hill had been the only Bengals player on a preseason injury list. His return means all 90 players on Cincinnati’s roster are eligible to practice. The Oakboro native has been a fixture on the Bengals’ defensive front since Cincinnati acquired him in a trade with the New York Giants before the 2021 season. The 6-foot-3, 311-pound lineman served as a team captain and started all 17 games last season. He recorded 66 tackles, four sacks and five tackles for loss. Hill ranked sixth on the team

JEFF DEAN / AP PHOTO

Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill jogs onto the field prior to a game against the Cleveland Browns on Jan. 4 in Cincinnati. in tackles and third in sacks. Over five seasons with Cincinnati, Hill has played in 81 games and made 67 starts, compiling 291 tackles and 20 sacks. The Bengals signed him to a three-year contract in March 2025 that runs through the 2027 season. Hill began his NFL career

with the Giants, who selected him in the third round of the 2018 draft following his college career at NC State. Cincinnati opened its preseason schedule with a 16-14 home victory over the Detroit Lions on Aug. 13 at Paycor Stadium. The Bengals will host the Bears on Saturday.

“I feel good. Glad to be back.” B.J. Hill

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

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Báez becomes first player to homer in first 3 at-bats in majors Chicago Joshua Báez became the first player to hit three home runs in his first three at-bats in the major leagues, leading the St. Louis Cardinals to an 8-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs. The 23-year-old left fielder, called up from Triple-A Memphis earlier in the day, hit the first pitch he saw into the Wrigley Field bleachers and then homered in his next two at-bats. He also drove in five runs.

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Puerto Rican boxer Colón dies 11 years after sustaining brain damage in ring Puerto Rican fighter Prichard Colón died at 33, 11 years after he sustained brain damage in his only loss. Colón suffered a brain bleed in a light-middleweight fight against Terrel Williams in Fairfax, Virginia, in October 2015. Colón underwent surgery to relieve pressure on his brain, and the WBC said he sustained “irreversible neurological damage” because of what the governing body described as “severe, illegal blows to the back of the head.” He never fought again and was later pictured in a wheelchair.

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NCAA BASEBALL

Bertman, LSU’s 5-time national title-winning baseball coach, dead at 88 Stanley “Skip” Bertman, who turned LSU’s baseball program into a powerhouse that won five national championships between 1991 and 2000, died at age 88. The College Baseball Hall of Famer’s legacy includes Alex Box Stadium, which opened in 2009 and holds about 11,000 spectators. The field at the stadium is named for Bertman, as is the College Baseball Foundation’s annual award for the nation’s top coach. Bertman retired from coaching in 2001 with a record of 870-330-3 in 18 seasons.

UFC

Makhachev sets UFC record for consecutive wins in welterweight title defense Philadelphia Islam Makhachev sets a UFC record with his 17th straight victory, defeating Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision at UFC 330. Makhachev, who hasn’t lost since 2015, won the welterweight crown in 2025 and successfully defended it for the first time. Mackenzie Dern also defended her 115-pound title with a unanimous decision over Gillian Robertson. Edson Barboza retired after a loss to Esteban Ribovics, ending a career that began in 2009. UFC returned to Philadelphia for the first time since 2019.

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Logano holds off Briscoe to win Cup Series race at Richmond The Team Penske driver is getting hot as the season winds down By Nate Ryan The Associated Press RICHMOND, Va. — Joey Logano delivered a warning to his NASCAR rivals after his victory Saturday at Richmond Raceway. “Don’t let the boys get hot,” the driver of Team Penske’s No. 22 Ford said after fending off a late charge by Chase Briscoe to earn his 39th career win by 0.392 seconds. “We’re pretty strong right now. It’s awesome to see the speed in the 22 again.” After falling as low as 20th in the points standings at the season’s halfway mark, the three-time Cup Series champion is surging toward the NASCAR Chase. Two races remain until the title run featuring the top 16 drivers. With two victories in the past four races (after only one win in his previous 56 starts), Logano has jumped to ninth in the points standings and established himself as a championship contender again. It’s no surprise given that it’s the 2026 season. Since 2014, Logano has either won the Cup title or advanced to the championship round in every even-numbered year, and he typically does it with a late-season spree. In

ROBERT SIMMONS / AP PHOTO

Joey Logano enters Victory Lane after winning the Cook Out 400 on Saturday in Richmond, Virginia. his last title run, the 36-year-old won three of the final 10 races. “We’ve seen it a lot over the years once he gets that confidence,” crew chief Paul Wolfe said. “He’s very good under pressure situations.” Logano scored his third Richmond win but his first in nine years at the track.

“Gosh, it was a great car,” he said. “We’ve had a great car here the last five races, and we haven’t been able to capitalize on the win. We’ve been so close, but it was sweet redemption today.” Logano capitalized on the final strategy call by Wolfe, who pitted his driver just after taking the lead from Briscoe with

39 laps remaining. Logano needed only 15 laps to retake the lead from Christopher Bell, who was trying to stretch his tires to the finish on Richmond’s abrasive surface over the last 57 laps. Briscoe led a race-high 171 of 400 laps. He had a best finish of 11th in nine previous starts at Richmond, one of only three

active tracks where he had yet to score a top 10. After qualifying second, he passed pole-sitter Ryan Blaney on the first lap to lead the first lap of his career on the 0.75-mile oval. “This place has been a real struggle to me,” said Briscoe, who clinched a spot in the Chase with his sixth top 10 in the past seven races. “To get close and not get it done is so frustrating. We had a great points night, but just frustrating to say the least to have one slip away like that at the end.” Austin Cindric finished third and credited his teammate Logano with providing the advice that helped him score his best result since an April 2025 win at Talladega Superspeedway. “This is a racetrack that I feel like Joey Logano could finish top five in my rental car,” said Cindric. “It’s a place where I study him so much.” Denny Hamlin took fourth, followed by Chase Elliott, who notched his first top five since winning at Texas Motor Speedway three months ago. In an emotional ceremony, Richmond Raceway dedicated the grandstand seats where Hamlin’s parents sat for years watching NASCAR races long before their son became a 64-time winner in the Cup Series. Hamlin’s father, Dennis, died in a house fire last December. The track’s tribute was among the highlights of a homecoming weekend for Hamlin, who grew up about 20 minutes from the track. “It’s really the time I get to see my brother and sister that still live up here,” said Hamlin, who lives in the Charlotte area. “I’ve got lots of high school friends that have their own campsite here. It will be amazing if they don’t get arrested.”

ROBERT SIMMONS / AP PHOTO

Team Penske driver Joey Logano crosses the finish line to win Saturday’s Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway.

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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 aboveentitled 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

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY COUNTY. NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division File No. 26E000352-830 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of JUDY COBLE TUCKER, Deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the decedent, or her estate, to exhibit them to the undersigned, on or before the 29th day of October, 2026, or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate should make immediate payment to the Administrator. This the 23rd day of July, 2026. Larry T. Tucker Estate of JUDY COBLE TUCKER 19268 Sandbar Road Oakboro, NC 28129 JEREMY D. GRIFFIN MORTON AND GRIFFIN LAW FIRM, PLLC 161 Ray Kennedy Dr., PO Box 422 Locust, North Carolina 28097 Telephone: 704-888-2311 Stanly News Journal Publish: July 29, August 5, 12 and 19, 2026.

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 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. 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

NOTICE

PUBLIC 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

Notice is hereby given that the Town of Oakboro Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on September 1, 2026 at 6:30 PM at Oakboro Town Hall located at 109 N Main Street, Oakboro, NC 28129. The purpose of this public hearing is to hear comments for, or against the type of installation of a fence on a vacant lot located behind 109 E Fourth Street at PIN# 650301395678; TAX# 26312. This property is located in Historic Overlay District. Further information is available at Oakboro Town Hall. Any person wishing to speak should plan to attend the Public Hearing. Leslie Hatley Murray Town Clerk

NOTICE

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

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000343-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Rosaland Elaine Efird a/k/a Rosaland Almond Efird deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Rosaland Elaine Efird a/k/a Rosaland Almond Efird to present them to the undersigned on or before October 31, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 29th day of July 2026. Jeffrey Paul Efird 620 Lower Stone Church Road Rockwell, NC 28138 Executor

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Grady O’Neal Cook, Jr. deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Grady O’Neal, Jr. to present them to the undersigned on or before November 19, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 19th day of August 2026. Cynthia A. Cook a/k/a Cynthia C. Yandle 13402 Five Point Road Locust, NC 28097 Executor

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH 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

Notice to Creditors Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Ruth Ann Goodwin, late of 604 N 6th Street, Albemarle, Stanly County, North Carolina 28001, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of same decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 2610 Hwy 218 E, Monroe, NC 28110, on or before the 6th day of November 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 5th day of August, 2026 Cindy G. Fisher Administrator of the Estate of Ruth Ann Goodwin 2451 Roundabout Lane Charlotte, NC 28210 Barry R. Howard Attorney for the Estate PO Box 176 Monroe, NC 28111

Notice Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Ann Blackmore Key, late of Stanly County, North Carolina, the undersigned hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Decedent to present them to the undersigned, in care of the undersigned’s attorney, at the address below, on or before 20th day of November, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the Estate will please make immediate payment. This the 19th day of August, 2026. Judith Workman Executrix of the Estate of Ann Blackmore Key c/o Andrew W. Cave Cave Law, PLLC 219 W Stanly St. P.O. Box 30 Stanfield, NC 28163

B5

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

the stream

‘Outer Banks,’ Anthony Hopkins’ classical album, Anne Hathaway’s 1st 2026 movie er-songwriter Sam Smith will release their fifth album, “Hazel Eyes.” It’s a follow-up to 2023’s “Gloria” — which features the sexy and sacrilegious “Unholy” collaboration with Kim Petras, the track that gave Smith their most recent Grammy win. This time around, Smith offers warm love songs. It’s a welcome change of pace from their previous heartbreak material.

Weezer drops “The Gold Album” on Friday The Associated Press THE FINAL season of “Outer Banks” and a new album from Anthony Hopkins (yes, Sir Anthony Hopkins) 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: Weezer’s 20th album, the survival horror game “The Sinking City 2” and “Mother Mary,” which kicked off Anne Hathaway’s incredibly prolific year in theaters.

SERIES TO STREAM

MOVIES TO STREAM Hathaway’s epic year at the movies (which is still going at full throttle with “The End of Oak Street” and the upcoming “Verity”) didn’t start with “The Devil Wears Prada 2” or “The Odyssey” but with “Mother Mary,” David Lowery’s experimental film about a pop star (Hathaway) and her estranged designer (Michaela Coel). In his review for the AP, Film Writer Jake Coyle called it “a fitfully spellbinding chamber drama that grows more operatic with every stitch,” adding, “Hathaway makes not just a believable pop star but an indelible portrait of an artist’s ego in extremes.” But, Coyle wrote, “the movie belongs to Coel … ‘Mother Mary’ is the story of an exorcism, and she’s the exorcist.” It debuts on HBO Max on Friday. Coel also stars in one of the year’s best two-handers, “The Christophers,” which arrives on Hulu on Saturday. Written by Ed Solomon and directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film is a kind of heist movie in disguise, in which a pair of wannabe heirs (James Corden and Jessica Gunning) hire a restoration specialist and sometimes forger (Coel) to covertly finish a series of paintings by their famous father Julian Sklar (Ian McKellen). In her review, AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr wrote that it was “a meditation on art, legacy, creativity and the oh-so-touchy subject of who has the right to critique,” with sharp

VICTORIA WILL / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Michaela Coel, pictured in April in New York, stars in “The Christophers.”

“Hathaway makes not just a believable pop star but an indelible portrait of an artist’s ego in extremes.” Jake Coyle, AP Film Writer

SCOTT A. GARFITT / INVISION / AP PHOTO

From left, Isaura Barbe-Brown, Anne Hathaway, director David Lowery, Michaela Coel and Atheena Frizzell pose for photographers upon arrival at a London screening of the film “Mother Mary” on April 23. performances from all. And finally, it’s a Zahn family affair in “She Dances,” starring Steve Zahn and his daughter Audrey as a father and daughter reconnecting after tragedy on the way to a dance competition. It’s also a “Reality Bites” reunion with Ethan Hawke. Directed by Rick Gomez, the film received warm reviews out of the Tribeca Film Festival and is set to debut on Peacock on Friday.

MUSIC TO STREAM

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.

delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Academy Award winner Hopkins will release his debut album, “Life Is a Dream,” Friday via Decca Records. Conducted by Gustavo Dudamel, performed by the Philharmonia Orchestra and recorded at London’s Alexandra Palace in April, the album is a 12-track collection of classical compositions crafted over six decades.

“My first love, or vocation really, is music,” the 88-year-old actor told the AP earlier this month. The generational talent picked up piano at 4 and wrote his first piece, a waltz, in 1960. He was 22 at the time. “Life Is a Dream” reflects his life and childhood in Wales — possessing what he describes as a “melancholy and sadness” but, ultimately, beauty. Power pop-punk band Weezer will release their landmark 20th album on Friday. It’s self-titled, but no doubt fans will refer to it as “the Gold Album,” continuing in their tradition of color-identified records. The single “We Might as Well Be Strangers” is a standout, featuring the idiosyncratic vocals of Karly Hartzman, lead singer of the indie rock group Wednesday. Also on Friday: English sing-

The first two episodes of Season 2 of “Average Joe” are streaming now on Paramount+. The action-comedy stars Deon Cole as a plumber in Pittsburgh whose life becomes complicated — and dangerous — when he learns that his dad, who recently died, owes $10 million and a car to the Russian mob. Joe can’t catch a break in the new season either. Now in Cape Town, Joe once again finds himself over his head. “Outer Banks” kicks off its fifth and final season Thursday on Netflix. The show follows a group of friends from working-class families in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. They call themselves “Pogues,” a nod to the pogy, a small baitfish at the bottom of the food chain with strong survival instincts. We begin the season with the Pogues grieving the death of one of their own. They set out on both a treasure hunt and a quest for revenge. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY It has taken longer than expected for “The Sinking City 2” to make it out of development. Then again, it comes from Ukraine’s Frogwares studio, and it isn’t easy to get a game out the door with a war going on. The new survival horror game is based on H.P. Lovecraft’s fiction, so be prepared to fight plenty of scaly, squishy, many-tentacled monsters as you explore a flooded Massachusetts town in the 1920s. Frogwares found a cult audience with 2019’s “The Sinking City” after building a reputation for more cerebral challenges with its Sherlock Holmes games. If you like your horror cosmic, the portal is open on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S and PC.

TAKE NOTICE 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:

25-123473 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

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,

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

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

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:

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

25-123473

B6

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

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VOLUME 8 ISSUE 38 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026

SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 919-663-3232

THE FORSYTH COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

COURTESY FORSYTH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE / FACEBOOK

Back to school The Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office’s Community Outreach Team was out at the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools across the county this week to help students be ready for the new year with back-to-school fairs, giveaways and other activities.

WHAT’S HAPPENING U.S. school vaccination rates inch down yet again, exemptions reach record high U.S. kindergarten vaccination rates have declined again, with exemptions reaching a record high. Federal data released Monday shows 4.2% of children are exempted from vaccine requirements, up from 3.6% the previous year. It marks the fourth consecutive year of rising exemption rates, mostly due to nonmedical reasons. Experts blame confusion in vaccination recommendations. The CDC reported a slight drop in measles-mumps-rubella shots, and that vaccination rates for polio and other diseases also are falling. The U.S. is experiencing its worst measles year since 1991.

ABC sues FCC over challenge to broadcast licenses ABC has filed a lawsuit against the FCC, alleging violation of its First Amendment rights. Tuesday’s lawsuit was a sharp escalation of the network’s battle against what it sees as the administration’s efforts to police its content. FCC Chair Brendan Carr has defended his agency’s actions, saying broadcasters have a duty to “operate in the public interest.” The FCC launched a review of eight ABC local broadcast licenses well before they expire. The order came after a joke by ABC host Jimmy Kimmel infuriated President Donald Trump.

$2.00

Martin retires, Parker sworn in as interim commissioner Gloria Whisenhunt was elected as the new chair of the county commission By Ryan Henkel Twin City Herald WINSTON-SALEM — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners has restructured itself following the retirement of Don Martin. Martin, who was serving as board chair, officially retired on July 31 following 12 years as a county commissioner in Forsyth County. “During my 111⁄2 years on the commission, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside my

colleagues on the commission as well as with the many dedicated county staff members who serve Forsyth County citizens every day in a myriad of roles,” Martin wrote back in June. Martin wrote that he had promised his wife that he’d step down from public life if he reached the age of 75, and after reaching that milestone last month, it seems he has kept that promise. In his place, Chris Parker, who will be running as the Republican candidate for the District B seat in the November election, was sworn in as an interim commissioner Aug. 10 to serve out the remainder of Martin’s term.

“I would not be here in this position right now if it weren’t for so many of you that are here in this room.” Chris Parker, interim commissioner As per state statutes, Parker was selected by the Forsyth County Republican Party to fill Martin’s (also a Republican) vacant seat. “I would not be here in this position right now if it weren’t

for so many of you that are here in this room,” Parker said. “I want to thank Don Martin for his many years of service to our community and for our camaraderie over the years. I’ve learned so many things from him, and I hope that education and mentorship continues.” Following the swearing-in, the commissioners also elected Gloria Whisenhunt as the new board chair and Gray Wilson as vice chair, both by unanimous votes. Whisenhunt previously served as the vice chair. The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners will next meet Aug. 27.

Georgia man charged with burglarizing NASCAR driver Biffle’s home after plane crash The suspect used social media to determine when families were away The Associated Press STATESVILLE — A Georgia man burglarized former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle’s home after learning Biffle and his family died in a plane crash, a North Carolina sheriff said Tuesday. Terrell Williams, 44, has been charged with second-degree burglary, safe cracking, money laundering and other felonies, Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell announced at a news conference. Williams was being held without bond in Cobb County, Georgia, on suspicion of another home burglary. Jail re-

cords did not list an attorney. Campbell said investigators were led to Williams in July, when Cobb County police arrested him and found items taken from Biffle’s home. Biffle, his wife and his two children, along with three others, died in the Dec. 18 crash, which remains under investigation by the NTSB. Authorities reported a break-in at the home on Jan. 8 and have said $30,000 in cash, two Glock handguns, NASCAR memorabilia and gold and silver coins were stolen. Investigators have recovered some of the stolen items, including NASCAR memorabilia, Campbell said. They also found a radio-frequency detector they believe Williams used during the burglary

“He used headlines, social media ... to find out when people were and were not home, and he executed his plan.” Darren Campbell, Iredell County sheriff

to locate security cameras. He said Williams is also suspected in another North Carolina burglary that occurred when a law enforcement officer was in the hospital. “He used headlines, social media posts, different things to find out when people were and were not home, and he executed his plan in

that capacity,” Campbell said. Campbell said investigators have also identified a person of interest in a separate fraud case following the Biffle family’s death. Investigators have said bank, Venmo and PayPal accounts tied to the Biffles were accessed online using personal information, with phone numbers and email addresses changed to gain control of funds. Money was then allegedly transferred to accounts not belonging to the family and used for purchases, according to a search warrant affidavit. At least one fraudulent check tied to Biffle’s business interests was cashed, and other attempts were made to access accounts. The activity occurred across multiple states.

A2

Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THURSDAY

8.20.26 #414

Prosecutors: ‘No serious dispute’ that Comey’s seashell post could be Trump threat The post preceded Comey’s novel release about a far-right social media personality

“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

By Eric Tucker The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Justice Department is defending its prosecution of former FBI Director James Comey, saying “there is no serious dispute” that a social media post of seashells he made last year could be understood as a threat against President Donald Trump. Prosecutors also called into question Comey’s account that he had found the seashells in the numerical arrangement of “86 47” while walking on a beach in North Carolina and suggested that his May 2025 post on Instagram was a thinly veiled attempt to sell copies of a forthcoming novel about a social media personality whose words have inspired his fans to attack his foes. The arguments in motions Tuesday represent the government’s most detailed explanation of its indictment and were filed in response to wide-ranging defense efforts to dismiss the case on grounds including that it constitutes a vindictive prosecution and that Comey’s post did not amount to a true threat. Comey’s lawyers contend that investigators in the case misled judges, submitted documents containing false statements, withheld key facts and repeatedly came up empty in their efforts to prove that Comey intended a physical threat or

ANDREW HARNIK / AP PHOTO

Former FBI Director James Comey speaks during a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., in June 2017. knew that the number 86 could suggest violence. The entry for “86” from Merriam-Webster, the dictionary used by The Associated Press, says its meaning is “to throw out,” “to get rid of” or “to refuse service to.” Trump, a Republican, is the 47th. The Justice Department maintains the photo of the seashells, which Comey said he found on the beach, constituted a threat against Trump. Comey deleted the post shortly after he put it up, saying he did not know that anyone interpreted the numbers as a call to violence. His lawyers have said that the slogan has long meant

“There is no serious dispute that an objective viewer of Comey’s post could read it to mean ‘Kill President Trump.’” U.S. prosecutors to “get rid of” or “eject” and has been featured on thousands of items sold online and regularly displayed at protests. But the Justice Department sought in its filings to place the post against the backdrop of a spate of assassination plots

or attempts against Trump in the months before and after Comey’s post. Prosecutors say that two minutes before the post was made, Comey’s wife texted him a screenshot of a definition of “86” that said “to get rid of or refuse service.” “There is no serious dispute that an objective viewer of Comey’s post could read it to mean ‘Kill President Trump,’” prosecutors wrote. The photo was posted days before Comey was set to release a novel titled “FDR Drive,” in which a prosecutor pursues a far-right social media personality who has called out his foes by name and inspired violence against them by his fans, the Justice Department said. After the Instagram post provoked an outcry, according to the government’s filings, Comey’s publishing agent observed in a text message to him that he had “gone viral.” Comey responded that that was “not my intention, but I’ll be OK if it sells books.” The agent replied, “Music to an agent’s ears.” Prosecutors also asserted that there was “reason to doubt” Comey’s account of having come upon the seashells while on a walk, saying they were located 4 miles from where Comey was staying. Comey’s lawyers have called the indictment, the second in a year against him, part of a Trump retribution campaign targeting one of the president’s vocal critics. Trump fired Comey as head of the FBI in 2017 as Comey was overseeing an investigation into potential ties between the Republican’s 2016 presidential campaign and Russia, and Trump since then has called for him and other perceived adversaries to be jailed. But the Justice Department denied allegations of vindictiveness, saying the decision to indict Comey was made by the U.S. attorney in the area and did not derive from a directive from the president or the attorney general.

Ex-officer accused of plotting attack released after grand jury declines to indict Christopher Gillum was arrested in April with ammunition and a handgun By Jack Brook The Associated Press

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NEW ORLEANS — A former law enforcement officer accused of planning to kill Black people in a mass shooting at a New Orleans festival was quietly released from custody over the summer after a grand jury found there was not enough evidence to charge him with a crime. A Louisiana grand jury in June declined to indict Christopher Gillum on a state terrorism charge that could have carried up to a 15-year sentence, court records show. Gillum, who had been held without bond, was released shortly after the grand jury’s decision and is not facing charges in any other jurisdictions, according to his attorney, Dylan Utley. He declined to comment further. Gillum’s release has not previously been reported. The 45-year-old ex-police officer, who is from Chapel Hill, had been arrested in Florida in April with hundreds of rounds of ammunition and a handgun while on his way to Louisiana to commit a mass shooting, according to the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. The investigation had involved the FBI and authorities across Louisiana, North Carolina and Florida. Authorities did not name the event Gillum was allegedly targeting, but his arrest came on the eve of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, which attracts hundreds of thousands of festivalgoers annually. Gillum, who is white, had “expressed recent threats to harm ‘Black people,’” according to authorities. His family had reported him missing in North Caroli-

OKALOOSA COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE VIA AP

Christopher Gillum was arrested April 22 at a hotel in Destin, Florida. na and said he had a history of self-harm. Lester Duhe, a spokesperson for Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, said in a statement that Gillum’s family had taken him “to a treatment facility out of the state” and that he is not facing additional criminal charges. Duhe said there were “several jurisdictional issues” that complicated the case after Gillum was extradited to Louisiana following his arrest. “The threat relayed to a family member actually occurred in North Carolina,” Duhe said. “The defendant never entered the State of Louisiana until after his arrest.” Gillum had been planning to travel to the Florida Keys “during the same period he would have been suspected to travel to Louisiana,” Duhe added. Gillum was charged under a Louisiana statute for the crime of “terrorizing,” which requires

that “a crime of violence is imminent or in progress or that a circumstance dangerous to human life exists or is about to exist.” Jonathan Guidry, the foreperson for the grand jury, declined to comment on the decision to not indict Gillum. Katherine Schweit, a former Chicago prosecutor and FBI executive who ran the agency’s active shooter program, said that thwarted acts of mass violence do not always lead to indictments, but prosecutors often seek an array of criminal charges when possible. “It’s very difficult to convince a jury, or to convince a grand jury, that something might have happened,” Schweit told The Associated Press. Law enforcement authorities in North Carolina, where Louisiana court records list Gillum as residing, told the AP that they were not aware he had been released from custody. “If we’ve got an individual

that was accused of such an action, we would want to know if in fact he did return to Alamance County,” said Byron Tucker, a spokesperson for the Alamance County Sheriff’s Office. Nazneen Ahmed, a spokesperson for North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson, said their office is not involved and that criminal prosecution authority in the state generally belongs to local district attorneys. The office of the Florida Attorney General did not respond to a request for comment about whether Gillum may face additional criminal charges in its jurisdiction. The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Louisiana also did not return messages seeking comment. In a statement, the FBI New Orleans office said the decision whether to charge Gillum rested with prosecutors. The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival declined to comment.

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Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

Net zero is dead and gone

This goal was pure virtuesignaling, and it never made any practical sense.

IT WAS ONLY a few years ago when the climate change alarms and green energy fad were all the rage at the White House and corporate boardrooms. Former President Joe Biden’s policies were all tilted to ending fossil fuels, and many of America’s biggest corporations embraced the concept of net-zero fossil fuels. This was the movement during the Biden years to eliminate virtually all oil, natural gas and coal production and replace these energy sources with windmills, solar panels and electric vehicles. This goal was pure virtue-signaling, and it never made any practical sense. Roughly 70% of American energy comes from fossil fuels, and only about 10% comes from “green energy.” Studies showed that the initiative would have decimated the U.S. economy: millions of American jobs lost, hundreds of billions of dollars of lost GDP, and much higher energy costs for American businesses and families. It was an “unaffordability” project at a time when Americans are demanding lower, not higher, costs. It was all pain and no gain. Even if the U.S. had reduced its fossil fuel usage, it would have had only a tiny impact on total global emissions because China and India were opening up far more coal plants than America was shutting down. Washington spent hundreds of billions of dollars on taxpayer subsidies to promote wind and solar, yet it remained as stalled out as the

EV plants that are shutting down across the country. Good news: The net-zero movement is dead — or at least on life support. A new study that I coauthored for Unleash Prosperity found that Wall Street’s once-aggressive embrace of net-zero climate policies has been reversed. Six of the largest U.S. banks — JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley and Wells Fargo — have completely withdrawn from the Net-Zero Banking Alliance. What a reversal this is: The net-zero movement once included a powerful coalition of financial institutions representing 140 member banks and $75.5 trillion in assets. There are a few financial institutions — such as Morgan Stanley and State Street — that still embrace some of these radical regulations, but not many. Much of this never made sense given that AI and data center energy needs will double or triple our electric power demands over the next two decades. That will require an all-of-the-above approach to meet those needs and to keep power affordable for our businesses and families. It also made no sense because America has the cleanest coal and 600 years of reserves — more than any other nation. We also have several hundred years of clean and cheap natural gas, which is critical to keeping the

lights on, American factories humming and air conditioning running. Of course, to meet those energy needs, we also need to be using more nuclear power, which produces little to no greenhouse gas emissions. Good news on that front: For the first time in decades, Americans now support nuclear power as well. The radical environmental groups haven’t given up, and they will surely try another comeback. They’re now blaming forest fires on climate change — even though globally there has been no upward trend in recent decades despite the deadly fires in North America this summer. One country that hasn’t backed off the green energy fad is Germany. What a debacle. Once the manufacturing and engineering hub of Europe, the country has deindustrialized without access to cheap fossil fuels. It’s spent nearly half a trillion dollars on “Energiewende” wind turbines while shutting off much of its natural gas usage. Its power costs are now nearly double what the rest of Europe and the U.S. companies pay. Factories are shutting down. The collapse of the net-zero movement here at home is a victory for economic reality, common sense and American energy abundance. Stephen Moore is co-founder of Unleash Prosperity and a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

COLUMN | MARK MINNELLA

America has a Man problem: when they leave the workforce, we all pay the price The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033.

TOO MANY American men are spending their prime working years outside the workforce, and the cost reaches far beyond lost income. In the mid-1950s, 97.4% of prime-age men, ages 25 to 54, participated in the labor force. In July 2026, that number was 89.2%. Put another way, the share of men in their prime working years outside the labor force has risen from roughly 1 in 38 to more than 1 in 9. I find those numbers troubling because work is more than a paycheck. Work brings structure to a day. It demands discipline and perseverance. It gives a man the opportunity to produce something, solve something, build something and provide for someone other than himself. Work responsibility is one of the ways men develop purpose and become connected to family and community. When large numbers of able-bodied men disconnect from work, the consequences ripple through our society. Too often, detachment from work causes detachment from responsibility, marriage, family formation and community. A Bureau of Labor Statistics study of men ages 30 to 36 found that among those who had not worked in the prior year, 70% had never married and 30.6% lived in a household with a parent. The same study found that 40.9% of nonworkers said health limited their ability to work, recognizing there are legitimate reasons some men cannot work, and compassion demands that we recognize them. That still leaves close to 60% who chose not to work. But compassion should not require us to ignore a larger cultural problem. For too long, our culture has been uncomfortable with many virtues associated with responsible manhood. Strength is too easily confused with aggression. Leadership is treated as

domination. Provision can be dismissed as antiquated. Sacrifice, perseverance and the responsibility to protect and provide are sometimes treated as though they belong to another era. We need to embrace the fact that there is nothing toxic about a man accepting responsibility. For Christians, that responsibility is not merely a cultural tradition. It is rooted in Scripture. Before there was a paycheck, a corporation or even a fallen world, God gave Adam work to do. Genesis 2:15 says God placed him in the garden “to tend and keep it.” Work was part of God’s design before sin entered the world. The Fall made work difficult; it did not make work meaningless. Scripture also makes a distinction our public conversation often misses. Second Thessalonians 3:10 says, “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.” It does not say cannot work. There is a world of difference between the man who cannot work and the man who will not. First Timothy 5:8 likewise makes providing for one’s household a serious responsibility. That is not a license for arrogance or domination. Biblical manhood is about responsibility, sacrifice, service, stewardship and strength under control. I also will not blame society for every man who chooses not to work. Men have a choice. A culture can lower expectations, but it cannot force a man to accept them. Each man is responsible for whether he accepts responsibility or avoids it. We should be able to hold two truths at once. First, our culture needs to do a better job encouraging responsible manhood, and second, men need to stop waiting for the culture’s permission before acting like … well, a responsible man. There is little reason to assume this problem

simply corrects itself. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033. However, another government program won’t change this trend’s direction. We need fathers teaching sons that responsibility is not a burden to escape but a privilege to carry. We need schools, churches, businesses, coaches and communities willing to tell boys that becoming a man means becoming useful to others. Most importantly, men themselves must decide that regardless of what the culture celebrates, they will work, build, provide, protect, serve and lead with character. The culture may change what it expects from men, but God has not. His expectations of responsibility, stewardship, sacrifice and provision live on. America does not merely need more men on payrolls. It needs more men who understand that their lives are supposed to count for something beyond themselves. The answer to men retreating from responsibility is not to continuously lower the bar until uselessness becomes the norm. Instead, we need to raise it. Call men to work. Call them to provide. Call them to build, protect, serve and lead. America does not need responsible manhood redefined downward. It needs responsible men willing to stand up. Mark Minnella was co-founder of the National Association of Christian Financial Consultants and “More Than Money” and is the author of “The Wall Street Awakening.”

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Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Appeals court sides with Trump in fight over subpoena of gender-affirming care provider A divided court ruled the administration can align healthcare enforcement with its policy priorities By Sudhin Thanawala The Associated Press PRESIDENT DONALD Trump’s goal of ending gender-affirming care is not improper and cannot be the basis for quashing a subpoena issued by the Justice Department against a provider of medical treatment for transgender youth, a divided federal appeals court ruled last Friday. The Justice Department announced last year that it had issued more than 20 subpoenas to doctors and clinics that provide gender-affirming care as part of an effort to investigate healthcare fraud. Federal judges have quashed many of the subpoenas as illegitimate efforts to intimidate providers into ending care. In a 2-1 decision, a panel of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said the efficacy and long-term risks of the treat-

J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE / AP PHOTO

A portrait of President Donald Trump hangs on the Justice Department building in Washington, D.C., earlier this year. ments are “uncertain,” and the president has the power to align the Justice Department’s enforcement priorities with his broader policy goals. “Every President has law enforcement priorities, just as every President has signature policies (often, the former are components of the latter),” Judge Carlos Bea wrote. Bea, a nominee of Repub-

lican President George W. Bush, was joined in the opinion by Daniel Bress, a Trump nominee. They reversed a ruling that quashed the subpoena against telemedicine provider QueerDoc, sending the case back to the district court to consider other arguments. The subpoena seeks QueerDoc’s personnel files, billing documents, communi-

cations with drug manufacturers and records of patients who were prescribed puberty blockers or hormone therapy, among other information, according to the 9th Circuit decision. American Civil Liberties Union attorney Adrien Leavitt, who represented Washington state-based QueerDoc, said the ACLU would continue fighting the subpoena in district court. QueerDoc has also argued the subpoena is overbroad and burdensome. The Justice Department has said it has reason to believe the company may be misleading people about puberty blockers and hormones. “We’re ready to continue defending one of the most fundamental principles of healthcare: every patient’s right to confidential medical care,” Leavitt said in a statement. He said the San Francisco-based 9th Circuit was the first appeals court to weigh in on the subpoenas. Trump has signed one executive order defining sex as only male or female — and as unchangeable — and another that seeks to end federal funding of gender-affirming care

for patients under 19. The latter order also directs the Justice Department to “prioritize investigations” into violations of a drug safety law by “any entity that may be misleading the public about long-term side effects of chemical and surgical mutilation.” Gender-affirming care includes a range of medical and mental health services to support a person’s gender identity, including when it’s different from the sex they were assigned at birth. It encompasses counseling, medications that block puberty and hormone therapy to produce physical changes as well as surgeries to transform chests and genitals, though those are rare for minors. Most major medical groups say access to the treatment is important for those with gender dysphoria and see gender as existing along a spectrum. The 9th Circuit majority called discussion around gender-affirming care “an unsettled scientific debate” and said the Trump administration could also justify its opposition to the treatment on ethical or philosophical grounds.

Hidden politics of time: How clocks, calendars, now-contentious time zones came to be How industrialization and politics transformed time from natural cycles into precise systems By Deepti Hajela The Associated Press NEW YORK — It flies. It heals all wounds. It can be of the essence, and it can be money. We thrill in the best of it, lament the worst. We’re warned not to waste it, since we can’t turn it back — even as we try to make up for when it’s lost. And probably more than anything when it comes to time, most of us try to manage it — in our everyday lives and on a global scale, from the biology of our circadian rhythms to what constitutes a work day. Clocks. Calendars. Pendulums. Hourglasses. Sundials. Time zones. For something that’s been a pretty universal impulse to mark the shift of light and dark, the movement of the stars and the rhythms of the tides, the cycles of summer heat and winter cold, one might assume there’s been a universal way of measuring time. That assumption would be wrong. Take the shifting of the clock twice a year in most of the United States, once forward and then back again, a system that “moves” the time to let people enjoy daylight hours later into the evening. While people love the light, a lot of them loathe having to make the change. So much so that the House of Representatives last month overwhelmingly passed legislation calling for the shift to become permanent year-round. Its prospects for passage in the Senate aren’t high, and when the country tried it in the 1970s it was wildly unpopular and short-lived. But it continues to be brought up, an indication that the way we keep the clock counts. The methods different peoples and communities have used to track their lives haven’t existed in a vacuum. They’ve been impacted by culture, by religion, by economics and technology, by the governing principles both within nations and among them. Turns out, like pretty much anything where people are involved, there’s a politics to time. Measurements of time made up but still matter “Every measurement of time is arbitrary,” said Elizabeth Cohen, a political science professor at Boston Universi-

MICHAEL PROBST / AP PHOTO

People gather on top of the Feldberg mountain to watch the sunset near Frankfurt, Germany, June 21, 2025. ty who has written about how we chronicle time and how it impacts the way people relate to each other. “Every deadline could have been a fraction of a second or a large increment of time different than it was,” she said. “None of it is natural.” Take calendars. We use them to give a structure to our lives, but the spectrum of what that has looked like is vast through human existence. Some followed the sun, others the moon and others still a combination of both. Maybe all the months were the same length, maybe they weren’t. What we call a seven-day week might have had four, six or some other number of days in other timekeeping systems. Even today, when the main calendar in use globally is what we know as the Gregorian calendar, with its 12 months and leap years, other calendars are still consulted for religious or cultural purposes in places from Israel to Thailand. And daylight saving time? With its connection to our perceptions of what hours of light become available to us, it reflects “a desire for natural time,” said Michael O’Malley, a history professor at George Mason University. People “are outside longer, so they feel it as a connection to nature,” he said. “But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.”

Culture of clock evolving It’s not just about the how. When we think about how culture evolved around time, there’s also the why. For most of human history, there were ties to the rhythms of the natural world: the phases of the moon, the rising and setting of the sun, the ebb and flow of the tides. And in agricultural societies, the importance of when to plant and when to harvest. Tracking the sun’s journey across the sky was a local endeavor. While the idea of a day broken down into 24 equal segments was important to groups like astronomers or seafarers, daily life was broken into “systems that tended to expand and contract based on the time of year and the location,” said Kevin Birth, an anthropology professor at Queens College. “But since people weren’t really traveling back and forth with any great rapidity back,” he said, “then it really didn’t matter.” Industrialization — in the form of the Industrial Revolution that started in 18th-century England and spread — pushed people to shift notions of time. No longer was it about the sun’s cycle or the turn of the seasons. Industrial production meant schedules — people paying attention to the clock because they were due for specific shifts. “It was one of the goals of industrialization to instill in peo-

ple this regular, unvarying sense of time,” O’Malley said. Contrast that to a preindustrial farmer, he said. “You could have an ethic of hard work, but that work is not going to be governed by a clock. It’s typically going to be governed by natural cues. The clock establishes this external authority that’s not you.” In the United States by the mid-1800s, another issue arose: time zones. There were more than 40 based around cities, which O’Malley said forced railroad companies to switch dynamically as trains traveled. Worried that other entities would standardize the zones and disrupt their businesses, the companies acted. “The American Railway Association got all the American railroads to agree that on Nov. 18, 1883, they would declare a four-zone system in effect in America,” O’Malley said. “And they just announced it.” Time can be cudgel It’s hardly the only occasion where the perception of time has involved national or global concerns. Take the Prime Meridian, the entirely made-up longitude line running from the North Pole to the South Pole, that divides Earth into eastern and western hemispheres and is used as the basis for global timekeeping as well as navigation. It runs through Greenwich, England, and was selected at

an international conference in 1884. Was that because Greenwich was the ideal place? No, Birth said — it simply was established during “a period when the British Empire was one of the dominant empires in the world.” Time zones themselves “are about politics,” he said, pointing out that they are not divided in a standard format. Countries decide their own, and in the U.S., the individual states can decide if they observe Daylight Saving or not. A prime example is China, which stretches more than 3,000 miles across Asia. It has one official time zone for the country, instituted when the Communist Party took power in 1949 as a form of national unity. The entire country runs officially on Beijing time, but the reality on the ground when the sun rises in eastern China hours before it rises in western China is people adjust with their own local times for daily life, Birth said. Time can also be a tool used in a society to manage dissent and protest, Cohen said. She pointed to examples like governments instituting curfews or protesters engaging in slowdowns or strikes. “Time has a lot of power,” she said, “and people are battling over it to try and impose themselves on others or remove the yoke that has been imposed on them.”

Forsyth SPORTS Logano holds off Briscoe to win Cup Series race at Richmond The Team Penske driver is getting hot as the season winds down By Nate Ryan The Associated Press RICHMOND, Va. — Joey Logano delivered a warning to his NASCAR rivals after his victory Saturday at Richmond Raceway. “Don’t let the boys get hot,” the driver of Team Penske’s No. 22 Ford said after fending off a late charge by Chase Briscoe to earn his 39th career win by 0.392 seconds. “We’re pretty strong right now. It’s awesome to see the speed in the 22 again.” After falling as low as 20th in the points standings at the season’s halfway mark, the three-time Cup Series champion is surging toward the NASCAR Chase. Two races remain until the title run featuring the top 16 drivers. With two victories in the past four races (after only one win in his previous 56 starts), Logano has jumped to ninth in the points standings and established himself as a championship contender again. It’s no surprise given that it’s the 2026 season. Since 2014, Logano has either won the Cup title or advanced to the championship round in every even-numbered year, and he typically does it with a late-season spree. In his last title run, the 36-year-old won three of the final 10 races. “We’ve seen it a lot over the years once he gets that confidence,” crew chief Paul Wolfe said. “He’s very good under pressure situations.” Logano scored his third Richmond win but his first in nine years at the track. “Gosh, it was a great car,” he said. “We’ve had a great car here the last five races, and we haven’t been able to capitalize on the win. We’ve been so close, but it was sweet redemption today.”

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ROBERT SIMMONS / AP PHOTO

Team Penske driver Joey Logano crosses the finish line to win Saturday’s Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway.

“Don’t let the boys get hot.” Joey Logano Logano capitalized on the final strategy call by Wolfe, who pitted his driver just after taking the lead from Briscoe with 39 laps remaining. Logano needed only 15 laps to retake the lead from Christopher Bell, who was trying to stretch his tires to the finish on Richmond’s abrasive surface over the last 57 laps. Briscoe led a race-high 171 of 400 laps. He had a best finish of 11th in nine previous starts at Richmond, one of only three active tracks where he had yet to score a top 10. After qualifying second, he passed pole-sitter Ryan Blaney on the first lap to lead the first lap of his career on the 0.75-mile oval. “This place has been a real struggle to me,” said Briscoe, who clinched a spot in the Chase with his sixth top 10 in the past seven races. “To get close and not get it done is so frustrating. We had a great points night, but just frustrating to say the least to have one slip away like that at the end.” Austin Cindric finished third

and credited his teammate Logano with providing the advice that helped him score his best result since an April 2025 win at Talladega Superspeedway. “This is a racetrack that I feel like Joey Logano could finish top five in my rental car,” said Cindric. “It’s a place where I study him so much.” Denny Hamlin took fourth, followed by Chase Elliott, who notched his first top five since winning at Texas Motor Speedway three months ago. In an emotional ceremony, Richmond Raceway dedicated the grandstand seats where Hamlin’s parents sat for years watching NASCAR races long before their son became a 64-time winner in the Cup Series. Hamlin’s father, Dennis, died in a house fire last December. The track’s tribute was among the highlights of a homecoming weekend for Hamlin, who grew up about 20 minutes from the track. “It’s really the time I get to see my brother and sister that still live up here,” said Hamlin, who lives in the Charlotte area. “I’ve got lots of high school friends that have their own campsite here. It will be amazing if they don’t get arrested.”

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Walkertown, volleyball Aliviah Bateman is a junior middle hitter on the Walkertown volleyball team. She’s also an all-conference softball player for the Wolfpack. Walkertown has opened the volleyball season 1-2, but Bateman has been a standout performer. She’s led the team in kills twice, service aces twice and blocked shots in all three games. She has all but one of Walkertown’s blocked shots on the young season and leads the Mid-State 3A/4A/5A conference in kills, aces and blocks. She also ranks in the NC Class 3A top 10 in kills and aces.

Allen, Moore show signs of bringing back big-play dimension to Bills’ offense The former Panthers playmaker is ready to be the go-to guy

By John Wawrow The Associated Press ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — After months of seeking to develop an on-field connection with receiver DJ Moore during the Buffalo Bills spring practices, Josh Allen concluded he might be the one holding up the process. Too often, Allen realized he was doing too much in attempting to impress the newly acquired veteran by aiming or even forcing the ball Moore’s way. So on the first day of training camp, Allen informed Moore about trying a different approach. “I felt myself trying to be perfect when I’m throwing to him,” Allen said. “So I walked to him and said, ‘I’m just going to throw it. I’m just going to pick a spot and let it go. I’m not going to aim it anymore,’” he added. “And I feel once I said that, things kind of clicked for us.” The revelation and the duo’s newfound rapport was no more evident than during a team drill on the fifth day of camp.

Buffalo Bills wide receiver DJ Moore walks off the field after practice at training camp.

Allen goes deep to Moore With time in the pocket, Allen glanced to his left in seeing Moore running at full speed and gaining a sliver of separation against three of Buffalo’s best defenders. Without hesitation, Allen heaved a spiral that Moore brought in over his shoulder with two outstretched hands and without breaking stride before tumbling to the turf for a would-be 60-yard touchdown. Allen called it “one of the better or more impressive catches and throws that I’ve made.” His only regret was that it didn’t happen during an actual game. Moore chalked it up to reflecting a new level of trust with Allen. “My confidence is high, regardless,” Moore said. “Now I just know he’s going to let it rip, and I just got to be there at a certain spot.” With one crowd-buzzing moment, the play represented why the Bills acquired Moore in trading a second-round pick to Chicago in March. And it also signaled what may well be the return of the big-play dimension Buffalo’s offense has lacked in the two seasons since Stefon Diggs’ departure. However much the Bills bought into the so-called “everybody eats” spread-the-ball

ADRIAN KRAUS / AP PHOTO

approach to the passing game minus Diggs, Moore’s addition places him at the head of the table. Departure from “everybody eats” approach First-year head coach Joe Brady avoided the suggestion of Moore representing a philosophical departure from the group of receivers he oversaw over the past two seasons as Buffalo’s coordinator. And yet, Brady acknowledged Moore bringing a new dimension to the offense. “There’s a reason we wanted him,” Brady said in detailing Moore’s speed, route-running technique and leadership. “Look, it’s training camp, right? We haven’t played a damn game yet. But you can feel him out there on the football field.” Though older by NFL receiver standards, the 29-year-old Moore has an accomplished resume entering his ninth season. He’s topped 1,100 yards receiving four times, including a career-best 1,364 yards and eight touchdowns in 2023.

Moore spent his first five seasons in Carolina and is reunited with Brady, who was the Panthers offensive coordinator from 2020-21. “Being here in Buffalo is definitely a new start,” Moore said. “I don’t really worry about expectations. I just go out there and be me each and every day and try to get better and better.” Age doesn’t appear to have slowed Moore, defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard noticed. “He’s bigger than you think he is. He’s stronger. He’s more explosive than you think,” Leonhard said. “You see it live and you’re like, ‘Wow, that’s why he’s so hard to tackle,’ or, ’That’s why he’s always creating separation.’” Bills lacked proven deep threat A lack of separation and having a bona fide deep threat led to a sag in Buffalo passing attack. Though productive, the Bills leaned more on completing short passes and relying on receivers to break tackles. From 2020 to 2023, the Bills ranked no worse than sev-

“Now I just know he’s going to let it rip, and I just got to be there at a certain spot.” DJ Moore on Josh Allen enth in the NFL with an average completion of 6.5 yards or longer beyond the line of scrimmage. Over the past three years, the Bills have ranked in the bottom half of the league with a sub-6-yard average. Allen’s numbers dropped, too. After averaging 4,385 yards passing from 2020-’24, he’s down to 3,700 over the past two years. It’s no wonder why Allen placed an emphasis on trying to impress Moore from the beginning, and realizing he doesn’t have to be perfect with each attempt. How imperfect, Allen was asked. “Pretty imperfect,” he answered. “(Moore) can erase a lot of mistakes.”

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 MLB

Báez becomes first player to homer in first 3 at-bats in majors Chicago Joshua Báez became the first player to hit three home runs in his first three at-bats in the major leagues, leading the St. Louis Cardinals to an 8-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs. The 23-year-old left fielder, called up from Triple-A Memphis earlier in the day, hit the first pitch he saw into the Wrigley Field bleachers and then homered in his next two at-bats. He also drove in five runs.

BOXING

Puerto Rican boxer Colón dies 11 years after sustaining brain damage in ring Puerto Rican fighter Prichard Colón died at 33, 11 years after he sustained brain damage in his only loss. Colón suffered a brain bleed in a light-middleweight fight against Terrel Williams in Fairfax, Virginia, in October 2015. Colón underwent surgery to relieve pressure on his brain, and the WBC said he sustained “irreversible neurological damage” because of what the governing body described as “severe, illegal blows to the back of the head.” He never fought again and was later pictured in a wheelchair.

NBA

Judge sides with MSG against Oakley, says former Knick couldn’t prove assault at game New York A judge sided with Madison Square Garden in its lengthy legal battle with Charles Oakley, saying the former New York Knicks All-Star had not proven he was assaulted when he was removed from a game he attended in 2017. Oakley was handcuffed and arrested after an altercation with security while sitting near owner James Dolan. Oakley initially brought a number of claims against MSG that were dismissed in February 2020. Only Oakley’s assault-and-battery claim remained.

NCAA BASEBALL

Bertman, LSU’s 5-time national title-winning baseball coach, dead at 88 Stanley “Skip” Bertman, who turned LSU’s baseball program into a powerhouse that won five national championships between 1991 and 2000, died at age 88. The College Baseball Hall of Famer’s legacy includes Alex Box Stadium, which opened in 2009 and holds about 11,000 spectators. The field at the stadium is named for Bertman, as is the College Baseball Foundation’s annual award for the nation’s top coach. Bertman retired from coaching in 2001 with a record of 870-330-3 in 18 seasons.

UFC

Makhachev sets UFC record for consecutive wins in welterweight title defense Philadelphia Islam Makhachev sets a UFC record with his 17th straight victory, defeating Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision at UFC 330. Makhachev, who hasn’t lost since 2015, won the welterweight crown in 2025 and successfully defended it for the first time. Mackenzie Dern also defended her 115-pound title with a unanimous decision over Gillian Robertson. Edson Barboza retired after a loss to Esteben Ribovics, ending a career that began in 2009. UFC returned to Philadelphia for the first time since 2019.

Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 20, 2026

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

6 college coaches under most pressure entering 2026 season UNC’s Bill Belichick is one of three ACC coaches on the list

$270M

By Maura Carey The Associated Press PATIENCE FOR poor performance is a rarity in college football, and that’s only become more clear in recent years. Eight power four coaches were jobless by November in 2025, and 15 Bowl Subdivision coaches were fired throughout the season, totaling a record $270 million in buyout packages. As the 2026 season arrives, here are six coaches entering the fall under the most pressure for instant results. Mike Norvell Florida State

Florida State peaked too early last season with a 31-17 Week 1 upset of Alabama and two blowouts against East Texas A&M and Kent State, cruising to a 3-0 start. And then things got shaky for the Seminoles, winning just two of their final nine games. Coach Mike Norvell is just above .500 in his six years at FSU (38-34). Thirteen of those wins came during the Noles’ playoff run in 2023. Since then, FSU has landed in the win column just seven times and finished bottom five in the ACC in back-to-back years — leaving Norvell in the win now bucket. Bill Belichick UNC

Bill Belichick arrived at UNC as a first-time college

Total amount of buyouts for the 15 FBS coaches fired last year

CHRIS SEWARD / AP PHOTO

UNC head coach Bill Belichick coaches from the sidelines against Duke. coach who had won six Super Bowls with the New England Patriots, but the hyped hiring fell flat in Year 1. The Tar Heels had 70 new players while ending up with more double-digit losses (five) than total wins (four) and missing a bowl for the first time since 2018, and there were multiple helpings of unwanted off-field headlines too. Belichick enters this year with 60 new players in another roster overhaul. The Tar Heels are picked to finish 15th in the 17-team Atlantic Coast Conference and have a tougher schedule in Year 2, including home games against Notre Dame and preseason ACC favorite Miami. Another off-field issue hit before camp: General manager Michael Lombardi is on

leave as the subject of a school investigation. Belichick originally signed a five-year, $50 million contract paying him $10 million in base and supplemental pay each year, though only the first three years were guaranteed. That means the school would owe the 74-year-old Belichick roughly one year’s pay if it decided to move on after the season. Shane Beamer South Carolina

Shane Beamer’s fifth year at South Carolina didn’t quite go to plan, with the Gamecocks finishing 4-8 and 15th (1-7) in the SEC. South Carolina’s stint in the AP Top 25 was short-lived, entering the season at No. 13 in the preseason poll and falling out of the rankings entirely after a Week 3 loss to Vanderbilt. The Gamecocks lost six of their final eight games. Luke Fickell Wisconsin

It’s no secret Wisconsin’s Luke Fickell is back on the hot seat — he acknowledged it himself at Big Ten media days. A 4-8 record in 2025 was Wisconsin’s second straight losing season for the first time since

the early 1990s. The Badgers reached lows they hadn’t seen since the ’70s last season with shutout losses against Iowa and Ohio State in back-to-back weeks. Fickell hasn’t been able to replicate the level of success he had in Cincinnati yet, posting a 17-21 record. Bill O’Brien

Boston College

After leading Boston College to a 7-6 record and Pinstripe Bowl appearance his first season, the Eagles regressed in 2025, finishing with a 2-10 record and ahead of only Syracuse in the ACC. Boston College’s two wins came in the first and last weeks of the season against Fordham and Syracuse, sandwiching 10 straight losses. The sharp decline after an encouraging first season has left little margin for error heading into Year 3. Mike Locksley Maryland

Maryland’s Mike Locksley remains squarely on the hot seat after nearly identical seasons in 2024 and 2025, finishing 4-8 overall and 1-8 in Big Ten play. In eight seasons, Locksley is 37-49 for the Terps, and the best years in the stretch were back-to-back 8-5 seasons in 2022 and again in 2023, when Maryland won its third bowl game in as many years. Locksley said the tough days are behind the program, looking forward to ramping up this season with what he described as one of the most talented rosters during his time at Maryland.

Top transfers in college football include plenty of guys who followed coaches A look at the top players in new locations in 2026 By Steve Megargee The Associated Press SOME OF THIS season’s top college football transfers simply followed their coaches from one school to another. For instance, former North Texas coach Eric Morris took over Oklahoma State and now has 21 of his former Mean Green players. That list includes Drew Mestemaker, who threw for a Bowl Subdivision-leading 4,379 yards a year ago. “I knew the whole time, Coach Morris was going to be a huge factor,” Mestemaker told reporters regarding the choice of his new school. “Wherever he went, that was probably going to be where I was going.” Mestemaker’s process wasn’t unusual. John Henry Daley, who recorded 11½ sacks at Utah last season, accompanied coach Kyle Whittingham to Michigan. New Penn State coach Matt Campbell’s roster features about two dozen of his former Iowa State players, including quarterback Rocco Becht. “At the end of the day, I think my main decision was just to come in to play for Matt Campbell my final year, just because I had built relationships with a bunch of the guys here already,” Becht said. “I didn’t want to ruin any of those. A great coaching staff was brought here, and I wanted to be a part of that at a great university.” Becht arrives at Penn State after throwing for 9,274 yards and 64 touchdowns with 27 interceptions at Iowa State as a three-year starter. It’s no surprise that so many transfers are making this type of choice. They only need to look at Indiana’s remarkable turnaround for evidence this can work. Curt Cignetti brought 13

of his former James Madison players with him after taking over at Indiana. They helped set the tone for Indiana’s extraordinary turnaround that included earning a College Football Playoff berth in 2024 and winning a national title last season. These transfers believe familiarity with their longtime coaches will help them in their new situations. “You know what you get with Coach Whittingham,” Daley said. “You know that you get discipline. You know that you get hard work. We expect to win games. That’s something that I love. He’s got a very old-school mindset in that. We’re going to come in, we’re going to attack every single day, and we’re going to be tough. It’s not always going to be easy, but it’s going to be worth it. That’s something I love that you don’t find everywhere. And that’s something I wanted to be a part of.” Here’s a rundown of some other transfers who should make a major impact this season (former schools listed below). Texas WR Cam Coleman Auburn

Coleman was the nation’s No. 3 overall prospect in his high school class. He caught 93 passes for 1,306 yards and 13 touchdowns in two seasons at Auburn. Coleman gained attention on social media, making a phenomenal catch in practice. Indiana QB Josh Hoover

TCU

Hoover takes over for Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, who led Indiana to a national title before becoming the first overall pick in the draft. Hoover, a three-year starter at TCU, has thrown for 9,629 yards and 71 touchdowns with 33 interceptions. Hoover will be throwing to former

MARTA LAVANDIER / AP PHOTO

Miami quarterback Darian Mensah speaks following a team practice session. Michigan State receiver Nick Marsh and will be handing the ball off to ex-Boston College running back Turbo Richard. LSU QB Sam Leavitt Arizona State

in 2024. Mensah has been productive at each of his stops and has completed 66.5% of his career passes. He threw for 3,973 yards with 34 touchdowns and just six interceptions at Duke after accumulating 2,723 yards passing with 22 touchdowns and six interceptions at Tulane.

Leavitt helped Arizona State earn a playoff berth in 2024 before a foot injury limited him to seven games last season. Leavitt, who began his career at Michigan State, has completed 61.4% of his career passes for 4,652 yards with 36 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He also has rushed for 816 yards and 10 touchdowns. Leavitt will be working behind a line that includes Jordan Seaton, a former five-star recruit who started 22 games at left tackle for Colorado the last two seasons.

Perich was first-team all-Big Ten in 2024 and second-team last season. He had 82 tackles for Minnesota a year ago and also contributed on offense and special teams. In 2024, Perich became the first Bowl Subdivision freshman since 1976 to intercept five passes while also collecting over 100 punt return yards and 100 kick return yards.

Miami QB Darian Mensah

BYU LB Cade Uluave

After leading Duke to an Atlantic Coast Conference title, Mensah entered the portal and joined a conference rival that played for the national championship last season. This is Mensah’s third school in as many years, as he played for Tulane

Uluave comes to BYU after compiling 100 tackles — 12 for loss — at Cal last season. He was first-team all-ACC. Uluave totaled 237 tackles — 21½ for loss — to go along with six sacks and three interceptions in three seasons at Cal.

Duke

Oregon S Koi Perich Minnesota

Cal

B3

Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 20, 2026

the stream

AMY HARRIS / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Weezer performs during the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California. The band will release its 20th studio album Friday.

‘Outer Banks,’ Anthony Hopkins’ classical album, Anne Hathaway’s 1st 2026 movie Weezer drops “The Gold Album” on Friday

zel Eyes.” It’s a follow-up to 2023’s “Gloria” — which features the sexy and sacrilegious “Unholy” collaboration with Kim Petras, the track that gave Smith their most recent Grammy win. This time around, Smith offers warm love songs. It’s a welcome change of pace from their previous heartbreak material.

The Associated Press THE FINAL season of “Outer Banks” and a new album from Anthony Hopkins (yes, Sir Anthony Hopkins) 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: Weezer’s 20th album, the survival horror game “The Sinking City 2” and “Mother Mary,” which kicked off Anne Hathaway’s incredibly prolific year in theaters.

SERIES TO STREAM

MOVIES TO STREAM Hathaway’s epic year at the movies (which is still going at full throttle with “The End of Oak Street” and the upcoming “Verity”) didn’t start with “The Devil Wears Prada 2” or “The Odyssey” but with “Mother Mary,” David Lowery’s experimental film about a pop star (Hathaway) and her estranged designer (Michaela Coel). In his review for the AP, Film Writer Jake Coyle called it “a fitfully spellbinding chamber drama that grows more operatic with every stitch,” adding, “Hathaway makes not just a believable pop star but an indelible portrait of an artist’s ego in extremes.” But, Coyle wrote, “the movie belongs to Coel … ‘Mother Mary’ is the story of an exorcism, and she’s the exorcist.” It debuts on HBO Max on Friday. Coel also stars in one of the year’s best two-handers, “The Christophers,” which arrives on Hulu on Saturday. Written by Ed Solomon and directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film is a kind of heist movie in disguise, in which a pair of wannabe heirs (James Corden and Jessica Gunning) hire a restoration specialist and sometimes forger (Coel) to covertly finish a series of paintings by their famous father Julian Sklar (Ian McKellen). In her review, AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr wrote that it was “a meditation on art, legacy, creativity and the

VICTORIA WILL / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Michaela Coel, pictured in April in New York, stars in “The Christophers.” oh-so-touchy subject of who has the right to critique,” with sharp performances from all. And finally, it’s a Zahn family affair in “She Dances,” starring Steve Zahn and his daughter Audrey as a father and daughter reconnecting after tragedy on the way to a dance competition. It’s also a “Reality Bites” reunion with Ethan Hawke. Directed by Rick Gomez, the film received warm reviews out of the Tribeca Film Festival and is set to debut on Peacock on Friday. MUSIC TO STREAM Academy Award winner Hopkins will release his debut album, “Life Is a Dream,” Friday via Decca Records. Conducted by Gustavo Dudamel, performed by the Philharmonia Orchestra and recorded at London’s Alexandra Palace in April, the album is a 12-track collection of classical compositions crafted over six decades. “My first love, or vocation really, is music,” the 88-year-old actor told the AP earlier this month. The generational talent picked up piano at 4 and wrote his first

The first two episodes of Season 2 of “Average Joe” are streaming now on Paramount+. The action-comedy stars Deon Cole as a plumber in Pittsburgh whose life becomes complicated — and dangerous — when he learns that his dad, who recently died, owes $10 million and a car to the Russian mob. Joe can’t catch a break in the new season either. Now in Cape Town, Joe once again finds himself over his head. “Outer Banks” kicks off its fifth and final season Thursday on Netflix. The show follows a group of friends from working-class families in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. They call themselves “Pogues,” a nod to the pogy, a small baitfish at the bottom of the food chain with strong survival instincts. We begin the season with the Pogues grieving the death of one of their own. They set out on both a treasure hunt and a quest for revenge. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

SCOTT A. GARFITT / INVISION / AP PHOTO

From left, Isaura Barbe-Brown, Anne Hathaway, director David Lowery, Michaela Coel and Atheena Frizzell pose for photographers upon arrival at a London screening of the film “Mother Mary” on April 23. piece, a waltz, in 1960. He was 22 at the time. “Life Is a Dream” reflects his life and childhood in Wales — possessing what he describes as a “melancholy and sadness” but, ultimately, beauty. Power pop-punk band Weezer will release their landmark 20th album on Friday. It’s self-titled, but no doubt fans will refer to it as “the Gold Al-

bum,” continuing in their tradition of color-identified records. The single “We Might as Well Be Strangers” is a standout, featuring the idiosyncratic vocals of Karly Hartzman, lead singer of the indie rock group Wednesday. Also on Friday: English singer-songwriter Sam Smith will release their fifth album, “Ha-

It has taken longer than expected for “The Sinking City 2” to make it out of development. Then again, it comes from Ukraine’s Frogwares studio, and it isn’t easy to get a game out the door with a war going on. The new survival horror game is based on H.P. Lovecraft’s fiction, so be prepared to fight plenty of scaly, squishy, many-tentacled monsters as you explore a flooded Massachusetts town in the 1920s. Frogwares found a cult audience with 2019’s “The Sinking City” after building a reputation for more cerebral challenges with its Sherlock Holmes games. If you like your horror cosmic, the portal is open on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S and PC.

B4

Twin City Herald for Thursday, August 20, 2026

STATE & NATION

Democrats disagree over abolishing or reforming ICE at DNC meeting Party divisions on the proposal foreshadow immigration battles ahead of 2028 By Mike Catalini The Associated Press AUSTIN, Texas — Democrats on Saturday approved dueling messages on whether U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement should be abolished or reformed, reflecting sharp opposition to President Donald Trump’s crackdown but revealing disagreement in the party ahead of the midterms. The Democratic National Committee, gathered for a summer meeting, also signed off on a raft of policy positions, including one that calls for “concrete reforms” of ICE and another for abolishing the agency that’s been at the center of several fatal encounters. ICE has been at the heart of

a progressive rallying cry since 2018 during the first Trump administration and has been renewed among some in the party after two recent fatal shootings by the agency in July. Saturday’s vote isn’t binding and doesn’t set the party’s platform, which will be determined at the 2028 convention, but it reflects the party’s differing views on a major issue. Candidates and lawmakers will continue to determine their own positions on the issue. Michele Johnson, a DNC member from Louisiana who proposed the measure to abolish ICE, said it’s time for Democrats to take a stand and pointed to the dissolution of ICE’s predecessor agency, the Immigration and Naturalization Service, as a precedent. “I think one of the reasons why people are not trusting the party is because we sound so academic,” she said. “We sound focus group tested, we sound poll

JOEL ANGEL JUAREZ / AP PHOTO

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin speaks during a Labor Council meeting last Thursday, in Austin, Texas. tested because we’re worried about saying the wrong thing or doing the wrong thing and not just like, just stand on business, like take a position.” Not every DNC member was convinced, though. Yvonne Reeves-Chong voted against

the measure, saying it would only gain support from a part of the party’s base, while drawing “fire” from another group of voters. “I would strongly suggest we get to the business of winning races so we can make the policies that make a difference,” she said. DNC Chairman Ken Martin, who’s from Minnesota, where Renee Good and Alex Pretti were fatally shot amid the immigration crackdown earlier this year, said in an interview that the takeaway is that Democrats find the administration’s handling of immigration, including by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, unacceptable. “Clearly, the one thing that unites Democrats, regardless of their position on reform versus abolish or whatever other ways to change what’s happening, is people believe that what ICE is doing right now — and CBP

Trump orders Pentagon to scale back joint exercises with South Korea South Korea declined to aid U.S. efforts against Iran, prompting the military exercise reductions

By Konstantin Toropin and Alanna Durkin Richer The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump ordered the Pentagon on Sunday to scale back annual joint military exercises with South Korea, saying the ally declined to help with the war against Iran and citing his good relationship with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. Trump said in a social media post that the exercises, which began Monday, are not only costly but “send a signal that is totally inappropriate and hostile” to North Korea, which he said “has been unthreatening and respectful” during his time in the White House. “Therefore, and based on the fact that it is too late to cancel, I have instructed Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to substantially reduce the Joint Military Exercises!” Trump wrote. The president added that he recently asked South Korea’s president if they would join the U.S. in the “denuclearization” of Iran, “and they said, ‘No thanks!’” The move is the latest example of the president appearing to turn against an ally in favor of a leader that previous administrations have cast as an adversary. Trump and others in his administration have also railed against NATO allies over per-

ceived lack of support for his war against Iran, even as they seek to confront an increasingly aggressive Russia in the Baltic region. It is also a sharp turnaround from how his administration has viewed South Korea in recent months. In May, Hegseth praised the longtime ally for its “commitment to increase defense spending” and its “leadership in assuming primary responsibility for the security of the Korean Peninsula” during a meeting at the Pentagon. “It demonstrates alliance burden-sharing that all of America’s partners would do well to follow,” the defense secretary added.

JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO

President Donald Trump gestures as he boards Air Force One at Morristown Airport on Sunday in Morristown, New Jersey.

What U.S. military says about joint exercises The 11 days of exercises involving 18,000 South Korean soldiers were designed to beef up readiness against North Korean threats. The U.S. military has said the summertime Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises reinforce “the role of the alliance as the linchpin for regional peace and security” and reaffirm “the ironclad commitment between the United States and the Republic of Korea to defend their homelands.” The exercises are one of the two main combined drills conducted by the South Korean and U.S. militaries annually, along with their springtime training. U.S. and South Korean forces were expected to practice joint operations in complex scenari-

“Hollowing out these joint exercises is shortsighted and a mistake.” Sen. Mark Kelly, former Navy pilot os, including a live-fire exercise to test joint precision targeting and maneuver, a wet gap crossing, and distribution of prepositioned military equipment, according to the U.S. military. South Korea’s Defense Ministry confirmed that the exercises began on Monday as planned. The joint training started days after North Korea resumed ballistic missile testing activities in defiance of U.N. bans. Trump’s decision was sharp-

ly criticized by Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, a former Navy pilot, who said that “hollowing out these joint exercises is shortsighted and a mistake” in a social media post made just hours after the president’s own post. Earlier this month, South Korea, the U.S. and Japan detected the launches of two ballistic missiles from North Korea in what were the North’s first ballistic weapons testing activities since late June. The missiles landed in the waters off North Korea’s east coast. North Korea threatens strong response North Korea has been pushing hard to enlarge its nuclear and missile arsenals since Kim’s high-stakes diplomacy with Trump collapsed in 2019.

“Clearly, the one thing that unites Democrats, regardless of their position on reform versus abolish or whatever other ways to change what’s happening, is people believe that what ICE is doing right now.” Ken Martin, DNC Chairman and the federal government — should stop,” he said. “There has to be a better way.” Immigration remained a stronger issue for Trump than the economy or Iran, according to a poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research released this month, even after three people were killed in encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the span of under a week in July. Overall, the survey found that only 39% of U.S. adults approve of his performance on immigration, down from 49% at the beginning of his second term.

Experts say Kim likely believes a bigger weapons arsenal would increase his chances for wresting more concessions from the U.S. in future negotiations. North Korea on Friday threatened unspecified stern steps against the U.S. and South Korea, describing their military drills as “a rehearsal for an aggressive war” that are triggering greater instability in the region. The warning was typical of the harsh rhetoric that North Korea often deploys ahead of major U.S.-South Korean military exercises. Experts say North Korea has often used its rivals’ drills as a pretext to ramp up testing activities to modernize weapons and promote public support for the reclusive North Korean leader. Trump met with the North Korean leader three times during his first term to discuss the country’s nuclear program, most recently in 2019. Since returning to office, Trump has expressed interest in continuing those discussions. In September 2025, Kim said he held “good personal memories” of Trump and suggested he could return to talks if the U.S. drops “its delusional obsession with denuclearization” of North Korea. Trump’s announcement came a day after he posted a photo of himself standing next to North Korea’s Kim, writing that the two leaders get along great “despite the unfriendly look on this particular picture.” This is not the first time that Trump has sought to end the exercises. During his first term he also issued a surprise announcement that called the war games “provocative.” “We will be stopping the war games, which will save us a tremendous amount of money, unless and until we see the future negotiation is not going along like it should,” Trump told reporters after his 2018 meeting with Kim in Singapore.

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Randolph record THE RANDOLPH COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

COURTESY RANDOLPH COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Lisk receives state honor Reynolds Lisk, retiring Randolph Community College Board of Trustees chair, was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine during the college’s Fall Convocation last Thursday, recognizing his decades of leadership, public service and lasting contributions. The Order of the Long Leaf Pine is the highest honor bestowed by the governor of North Carolina. N.C. Rep. Brian Biggs (R-Randolph) introduced and presented the award. Randolph County Board of Commissioners chairman Darrell Frye, who was also on hand to present the award, recited the official toast of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine in Lisk’s honor. Lisk, an Asheboro man, recently completed 12 years on the RCC board, including three years as chair. In the photo, Lisk receives the award as Shah Ardalan, RCC president, looks on.

WHAT’S HAPPENING U.S. school vaccination rates inch down yet again, exemptions reach record high U.S. kindergarten vaccination rates have declined again, with exemptions reaching a record high. Federal data released Monday shows 4.2% of children are exempted from vaccine requirements, up from 3.6% the previous year. It marks the fourth consecutive year of rising exemption rates, mostly due to nonmedical reasons. Experts blame confusion in vaccination recommendations. The CDC reported a slight drop in measles-mumps-rubella shots, and that vaccination rates for polio and other diseases also are falling. The U.S. is experiencing its worst measles year since 1991. Some state health officials are urging parents to vaccinate their children as schools can be hot spots for outbreaks.

ABC sues FCC over challenge to broadcast licenses ABC has filed a lawsuit against the FCC, alleging violation of its First Amendment rights. Tuesday’s lawsuit was a sharp escalation of the network’s battle against what it sees as the administration’s efforts to police its content. FCC Chair Brendan Carr has defended his agency’s actions, saying broadcasters have a duty to “operate in the public interest.” The FCC launched a review of eight ABC local broadcast licenses well before they expire. The order came after a joke by ABC host Jimmy Kimmel infuriated President Trump.

$2.00

Trinity High School teacher named finalist for statewide CTE award The winner will be announced Oct. 29 By Ryan Henkel Randolph Record ASHEBORO — The Randolph County Schools Board of Education recognized a local teacher who was named a finalist for a statewide award. At the board’s Aug. 17 meeting, it was announced that Randolph County School System teacher Carolina McKee was one of 24 finalists for the North Carolina Center for the Advancement of Teaching 2027 Burroughs Wellcome Fund North Carolina Career and Technical Education Teacher of the Year. The award was established to “celebrate the innovation, leadership, and dedication of CTE educators across North Caroli-

na” and honor teachers “who exemplify the highest standards of excellence in preparing students for both college and career pathways as well as support workforce development.” “This recognition highlights Ms. McKee’s exceptional contributions to CTE instruction and her remarkable impact on the students and community here in Randolph County,” said Amber Ward, public information officer. As a finalist, McKee will be invited to attend a week of professional development with other educators in October, and at that time, a winner will be determined by a panel of judges from across the state based on interviews and portfolio reviews. Winners will receive a $5,000 cash prize, participation in the national ACTE conference and

instructional supply funds for their school. “I was on this board when she was at Southwestern (Randolph High School), and you could tell then that she knew where she was going,” board chair Gary Cook said. “You could tell. You stood out way back then in the CTE program there.” McKee is an agriculture education teacher at Trinity High School. In addition, the board was notified about three gift and grant awards handed out to schools in the district. Wheatmore Middle School was the recipient of a $5,000 gift from the Lenny Peters Foundation, and the funding will be utilized for the cheerleading program. Liberty Elementary School received a $2,000 gift from Meacham Realty and Auc-

Liberty’s water restrictions lifted after hectic weekend A fire suppression system failure at a business was cited as the cause of the problem By Bob Sutton Randolph Record LIBERTY — The Town of Liberty lifted restrictions on water use Monday after an emergency that began late last week and carried through the weekend. The town reported that “water levels are back to normal.” Town officials had issued an urgent request for water conservation after citing fire suppression system failure or break

overnight from Thursday to Friday at a business as the root of the problem. “Water tank levels are very low and need time to refill back to normal levels,” the town wrote to residents. Requests for more information from town officials went unanswered early this week. The town announced late last week that it was required that residents reduce water usage. Watering yards and plants was prohibited along with washing automobiles. If possible, residents also were asked to reduce shower times and hold off washing clothes until after the weekend.

Water remained safe to drink in Liberty, the town reported. “Thanks to citizens, businesses, and town staff for contributing to getting back to normal operations,” the town posted on social media. Water remained safe to drink, the town reported. In late July, there was a water main break on Fayetteville Street in Liberty. That impacted service between West Brower Street and West Dameron Street.

“This recognition highlights Ms. McKee’s exceptional contributions to CTE instruction and her remarkable impact on the students and community here in Randolph County.” Amber Ward, public information officer tions for student and staff needs. Randolph Early College High School received a $484 Donors Choose Grant for the purchase of a class set of books. The Randolph County Schools Board of Education will next meet Sept. 14.

Asheboro provides update on water The City of Asheboro has switched to free chlorine as its primary disinfection treatment as of earlier this month. This change in treatment is necessary to ensure optimum water quality throughout the distribution water mains, according to information from the city. Customers might have initially detected a slight increase in chlorine taste or smell as the switchover in treatment processes occurred. Customers who use city drinking water for certain special purposes, including kidney dialysis, were advised to consider making adjustments because the chlorine disinfection process will change some characteristics of the water. This change in treatment was scheduled to last several weeks before a switch back to the customary chloramine treatment process.

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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THURSDAY

8.20.26

Access Dental Care receives Randolph Guide boost from state funding The Asheboro-based organization has aimed to provide services statewide

“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 — Access Dental Care, an Asheboro-based nonprofit, will purchase a new mobile truck and updated equipment, replacing one of the organization’s 20-year-old vehicles serving communities across the Triad. The funding will come from $300,000 secured in the recently approved state budget. The objective is to expand dental care for North Caroli-

CRIME LOG Aug. 10

• Jose Alexander Hernandez Urias, 43, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for driving while impaired, failure to maintain lane control and no operator’s license.

• Bryan Wade Smith, 36, of Rockingham, was arrested by RCSO for possession of a firearm by a felon. • Joshua Ray Allred, 38, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for forgery of an instrument, uttering a forged instrument and misdemeanor larceny, and other charges. • Phillip Allen Noyes, 41, was arrested for assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. • Tyler Kristian Nelson, 21, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession of a firearm by a felon, carrying a concealed weapon and possession of a stolen firearm. Aug. 11

• James Anthony Calloway, 49, was arrested for injury to personal property, injury to property to obtain nonferrous metals and larceny of motor vehicle parts, and other charges. Aug. 12

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to exclusively providing special care. For 26 years, the organization has focused on providing state-of-the-art onsite care to nursing and group home residents. The organization operates six mobile teams — each consisting of a dentist, a dental hygienist and two dental assistants — that travel to care facilities five days a week. Each team sets up two operatories on-site and sees an average of 20 patients per day. “We care for patients every day who can’t be treated in the regular office setting, supporting facilities and families who need routine dentistry for their loved ones,” says Dr. Bill Milner, president of Access Dental Care.

• Adryon Montrell Jenkins, 19, of Burlington, was arrested by RCSO for breaking and entering a motor vehicle, breaking and entering a motor vehicle with theft and firstdegree burglary, and other charges. • Allen Gregory Tolar, 66, of Fayetteville, was arrested by RCSO for forgery of endorsement, obtaining property by false pretenses and uttering a forged instrument. • Dusten Dale Hudson, 35, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for habitual larceny, larceny by anti-invntry device and possession of stolen goods.

• Niklas Alexander Anderson, 36, of Carthage, was arrested by RCSO for violation of a domestic violence protective order. • Sarah Marshall Thornton, 53, of Randleman, was arrested by RCSO for breaking and entering, possession of drug paraphernalia and first-degree trespass, and other charges. • Tara Kaitlin Owens, 35, of Archdale, was arrested by RCSO for assault on a government official and resisting a public officer. • Teresa Owens Graham, 53, of Archdale, was arrested by RCSO for possession of a firearm by a felon. • Yanyin Lin, 38, of Flushing, was arrested by RCSO for possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine and maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances. Aug. 14 • Benjamin Lee Pyrtle, 34, of Trinity, was arrested by RCSO for first-degree burglary. • Jermaine Antione Angevine, 45, of Burlington, was arrested by Asheboro PD for violation of a domestic violence protective order, possession of marijuana paraphernalia and simple possession of a controlled substance. • Jordan Chad Bradford, 21, of Archdale, was arrested by Asheboro PD for fleeing to elude arrest.

Aug. 13

• Marilu Little Hernandez, 34, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for driving while impaired, failure to heed a light or siren and failure to maintain lane control.

• Essie Natasha Marie McKenzie, 42, of Liberty, was arrested by Liberty PD for injury to personal property, misdemeanor larceny and assault and battery, and other charges.

• Michael Patrick Hughes, 55, of Philadelphia, was arrested by Archdale PD for identity theft, obtaining property by false pretenses and possession 5+ counterfeit instrument, and other charges.

• Jesus Sesmas, 44, was arrested for driving while impaired.

• Rhonwyn Jay Buffkin, 56, of Randleman, was arrested by Randleman PD for assault on

a female. Aug. 15 • Domenica Rosalina Vasquez Molina, 28, of Randleman, was arrested by Asheboro PD for misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. • Jacob Lee Eanes, 19, of Trinity, was arrested by RCSO for assault on a female, misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and simple assault, and other charges. • Lloyd Michael Miser, 60, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. • Marlon Galeano, 28, of Randleman, was arrested by Asheboro PD for misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, reckless driving and speeding. • Pamela Michelle Starling, 51, of Asheboro, was arrested by Randleman PD for obtaining property by false pretenses and uttering a forged instrument. • Richard Heath Wrenn, 31, of Randleman, was arrested by NCHP for driving while impaired, failure to comply with license restrictions and possession of an open container of alcohol in the passenger area, and other charges. • Ronchetta Paula Crawford, 54, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and simple assault. Aug. 16 • Jackson Cole Gray, 24, of Silr City, was arrested by Asheboro PD for driving while impaired and improper rear lighting. • Kenneth Neff Jr., 37, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for violation of a domestic violence protective order. • Mark Anthony Strickland, 36, of Trinity, was arrested by RCSO for domestic criminal trespass. • Matthew Shannon Wolfe, 30, of Sophia, was arrested by RCSO for injury to real property.

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

Aug. 21 Friday Night Bluegrass: Lee Ward & the Southern Express 7 p.m. Tickets are $10 at the door. Doors at 6 p.m. Sunset Theatre 234 Sunset Ave. Asheboro

The Tonez at Randleman Market and Music

• David Lynn Sierra, 41, was arrested for simple assault. WEEKLY FORECAST SPONSORED BY

na’s frail elderly and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, according to information from state Sen. Dave Craven’s office. “This program is a great example of how North Carolina creates innovative programs that help communities throughout the state,” Craven, a Randolph County Republican, said in a news release. “I’m proud to do everything I can to support families that struggle every day to get specialized health services. I’m especially pleased to have a home-grown program that is having a statewide impact.” Access Dental Care is a mobile organization and the nation’s largest practice dedicated

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7-10 p.m. A free outdoor concert in Commerce Square. Bring a chair. Commerce Square Randleman

Aug. 22 The Statler Experience 7 p.m. Wilson Fairchild, sons of Statler Brothers Don and Harold Reid, perform with Jack and Davis Reid. Liberty Showcase Theater 101 S. Fayetteville St. Liberty

Asheboro Summer Cruise Series: Grounded Elegance Cruise-In 6-10 p.m. This display of antique and vintage automobiles is presented by the Grounded Elegance Car Club. Admission is free. 1128 N. Fayetteville St. Asheboro

Killer Baez Comedy Show 7 p.m. The Sunset Theatre welcomes comedian Killer Beaz for his “Best Buzz in Town” tour. The show features clean, family-friendly humor. Tickets range from $28.50 to $58.50. Call 336-626-1240 for tickets. Sunset Theatre 234 Sunset Ave. Asheboro

Aug. 29 13th Annual North Carolina Food Truck State Championship 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The city’s largest food truck competition and street festival in Commerce Square. Live music starts at 11 a.m. Commerce Square Randleman

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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

Net zero is dead and gone

This goal was pure virtuesignaling, and it never made any practical sense.

IT WAS ONLY a few years ago when the climate change alarms and green energy fad were all the rage at the White House and corporate boardrooms. Former President Joe Biden’s policies were all tilted to ending fossil fuels, and many of America’s biggest corporations embraced the concept of net-zero fossil fuels. This was the movement during the Biden years to eliminate virtually all oil, natural gas and coal production and replace these energy sources with windmills, solar panels and electric vehicles. This goal was pure virtue-signaling, and it never made any practical sense. Roughly 70% of American energy comes from fossil fuels, and only about 10% comes from “green energy.” Studies showed that the initiative would have decimated the U.S. economy: millions of American jobs lost, hundreds of billions of dollars of lost GDP, and much higher energy costs for American businesses and families. It was an “unaffordability” project at a time when Americans are demanding lower, not higher, costs. It was all pain and no gain. Even if the U.S. had reduced its fossil fuel usage, it would have had only a tiny impact on total global emissions because China and India were opening up far more coal plants than America was shutting down. Washington spent hundreds of billions of dollars on taxpayer subsidies to promote wind and solar, yet it remained as stalled out as the

EV plants that are shutting down across the country. Good news: The net-zero movement is dead — or at least on life support. A new study that I coauthored for Unleash Prosperity found that Wall Street’s once-aggressive embrace of net-zero climate policies has been reversed. Six of the largest U.S. banks — JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley and Wells Fargo — have completely withdrawn from the Net-Zero Banking Alliance. What a reversal this is: The net-zero movement once included a powerful coalition of financial institutions representing 140 member banks and $75.5 trillion in assets. There are a few financial institutions — such as Morgan Stanley and State Street — that still embrace some of these radical regulations, but not many. Much of this never made sense given that AI and data center energy needs will double or triple our electric power demands over the next two decades. That will require an all-of-the-above approach to meet those needs and to keep power affordable for our businesses and families. It also made no sense because America has the cleanest coal and 600 years of reserves — more than any other nation. We also have several hundred years of clean and cheap natural gas, which is critical to keeping the

lights on, American factories humming and air conditioning running. Of course, to meet those energy needs, we also need to be using more nuclear power, which produces little to no greenhouse gas emissions. Good news on that front: For the first time in decades, Americans now support nuclear power as well. The radical environmental groups haven’t given up, and they will surely try another comeback. They’re now blaming forest fires on climate change — even though globally there has been no upward trend in recent decades despite the deadly fires in North America this summer. One country that hasn’t backed off the green energy fad is Germany. What a debacle. Once the manufacturing and engineering hub of Europe, the country has deindustrialized without access to cheap fossil fuels. It’s spent nearly half a trillion dollars on “Energiewende” wind turbines while shutting off much of its natural gas usage. Its power costs are now nearly double what the rest of Europe and the U.S. companies pay. Factories are shutting down. The collapse of the net-zero movement here at home is a victory for economic reality, common sense and American energy abundance. Stephen Moore is co-founder of Unleash Prosperity and a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

COLUMN | MARK MINNELLA

America has a Man problem: when they leave the workforce, we all pay the price The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033.

TOO MANY American men are spending their prime working years outside the workforce, and the cost reaches far beyond lost income. In the mid-1950s, 97.4% of prime-age men, ages 25 to 54, participated in the labor force. In July 2026, that number was 89.2%. Put another way, the share of men in their prime working years outside the labor force has risen from roughly 1 in 38 to more than 1 in 9. I find those numbers troubling because work is more than a paycheck. Work brings structure to a day. It demands discipline and perseverance. It gives a man the opportunity to produce something, solve something, build something and provide for someone other than himself. Work responsibility is one of the ways men develop purpose and become connected to family and community. When large numbers of able-bodied men disconnect from work, the consequences ripple through our society. Too often, detachment from work causes detachment from responsibility, marriage, family formation and community. A Bureau of Labor Statistics study of men ages 30 to 36 found that among those who had not worked in the prior year, 70% had never married and 30.6% lived in a household with a parent. The same study found that 40.9% of nonworkers said health limited their ability to work, recognizing there are legitimate reasons some men cannot work, and compassion demands that we recognize them. That still leaves close to 60% who chose not to work. But compassion should not require us to ignore a larger cultural problem. For too long, our culture has been uncomfortable with many virtues associated with responsible manhood. Strength is too easily confused with aggression. Leadership is treated as

domination. Provision can be dismissed as antiquated. Sacrifice, perseverance and the responsibility to protect and provide are sometimes treated as though they belong to another era. We need to embrace the fact that there is nothing toxic about a man accepting responsibility. For Christians, that responsibility is not merely a cultural tradition. It is rooted in Scripture. Before there was a paycheck, a corporation or even a fallen world, God gave Adam work to do. Genesis 2:15 says God placed him in the garden “to tend and keep it.” Work was part of God’s design before sin entered the world. The Fall made work difficult; it did not make work meaningless. Scripture also makes a distinction our public conversation often misses. Second Thessalonians 3:10 says, “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.” It does not say cannot work. There is a world of difference between the man who cannot work and the man who will not. First Timothy 5:8 likewise makes providing for one’s household a serious responsibility. That is not a license for arrogance or domination. Biblical manhood is about responsibility, sacrifice, service, stewardship and strength under control. I also will not blame society for every man who chooses not to work. Men have a choice. A culture can lower expectations, but it cannot force a man to accept them. Each man is responsible for whether he accepts responsibility or avoids it. We should be able to hold two truths at once. First, our culture needs to do a better job encouraging responsible manhood, and second, men need to stop waiting for the culture’s permission before acting like … well, a responsible man. There is little reason to assume this problem

simply corrects itself. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033. However, another government program won’t change this trend’s direction. We need fathers teaching sons that responsibility is not a burden to escape but a privilege to carry. We need schools, churches, businesses, coaches and communities willing to tell boys that becoming a man means becoming useful to others. Most importantly, men themselves must decide that regardless of what the culture celebrates, they will work, build, provide, protect, serve and lead with character. The culture may change what it expects from men, but God has not. His expectations of responsibility, stewardship, sacrifice and provision live on. America does not merely need more men on payrolls. It needs more men who understand that their lives are supposed to count for something beyond themselves. The answer to men retreating from responsibility is not to continuously lower the bar until uselessness becomes the norm. Instead, we need to raise it. Call men to work. Call them to provide. Call them to build, protect, serve and lead. America does not need responsible manhood redefined downward. It needs responsible men willing to stand up. Mark Minnella was co-founder of the National Association of Christian Financial Consultants and “More Than Money” and is the author of “The Wall Street Awakening.”

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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Hidden politics of time: How clocks, calendars, now-contentious time zones came to be How industrialization and politics transformed time from natural cycles into precise systems By Deepti Hajela The Associated Press NEW YORK — It flies. It heals all wounds. It can be of the essence, and it can be money. We thrill in the best of it, lament the worst. We’re warned not to waste it, since we can’t turn it back — even as we try to make up for when it’s lost. And probably more than anything when it comes to time, most of us try to manage it — in our everyday lives and on a global scale, from the biology of our circadian rhythms to what constitutes a work day. Clocks. Calendars. Pendulums. Hourglasses. Sundials. Time zones. For something that’s been a pretty universal impulse to mark the shift of light and dark, the movement of the stars and the rhythms of the tides, the cycles of summer heat and winter cold, one might assume there’s been a universal way of measuring time. That assumption would be wrong. Take the shifting of the clock twice a year in most of the United States, once forward and then back again, a system that “moves” the time to let people enjoy daylight hours later into the evening. While people love the light, a lot of them loathe having to make the change. So much so that the House of Representatives last month overwhelmingly passed legislation calling for the shift to become permanent year-round. Its prospects for passage in the Senate aren’t high, and when the country tried it in the 1970s it was wildly unpopular and short-lived. But it continues to be brought up, an indication that the way we keep the clock counts. The methods different peoples and communities have used to track their lives haven’t existed in a vacuum. They’ve been impacted by culture, by religion, by economics and technology, by the governing principles both within nations and among them. Turns out, like pretty much anything where people are involved, there’s a politics to time. Measurements of time made up but still matter “Every measurement of time is arbitrary,” said Elizabeth Cohen, a political science professor at Boston University who has written about how we chronicle time and how it impacts the way people relate to each other. “Every deadline could have been a fraction of a second or a large increment of time differ-

MICHAEL PROBST / AP PHOTO

People gather on top of the Feldberg mountain to watch the sunset near Frankfurt, Germany, June 21, 2025. ent than it was,” she said. “None of it is natural.” Take calendars. We use them to give a structure to our lives, but the spectrum of what that has looked like is vast through human existence. Some followed the sun, others the moon and others still a combination of both. Maybe all the months were the same length, maybe they weren’t. What we call a seven-day week might have had four, six or some other number of days in other timekeeping systems. Even today, when the main calendar in use globally is what we know as the Gregorian calendar, with its 12 months and leap years, other calendars are still consulted for religious or cultural purposes in places from Israel to Thailand. And daylight saving time? With its connection to our perceptions of what hours of light become available to us, it reflects “a desire for natural time,” said Michael O’Malley, a history professor at George Mason University. People “are outside longer, so they feel it as a connection to nature,” he said. “But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.” Culture of clock evolving It’s not just about the how. When we think about how culture evolved around time, there’s also the why. For most of human history, there were ties to the rhythms of the natural world: the phases

“But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.” Michael O’Malley, George Mason University history professor of the moon, the rising and setting of the sun, the ebb and flow of the tides. And in agricultural societies, the importance of when to plant and when to harvest. Tracking the sun’s journey across the sky was a local endeavor. While the idea of a day broken down into 24 equal segments was important to groups like astronomers or seafarers, daily life was broken into “systems that tended to expand and contract based on the time of year and the location,” said Kevin Birth, an anthropology professor at Queens College. “But since people weren’t really traveling back and forth with any great rapidity back,” he said, “then it really didn’t matter.” Industrialization — in the form of the Industrial Revolution that started in 18th-century England and spread — pushed people to shift notions of time. No longer was it about the sun’s cycle or the turn of the seasons. Industrial production meant schedules — people pay-

ing attention to the clock because they were due for specific shifts. “It was one of the goals of industrialization to instill in people this regular, unvarying sense of time,” O’Malley said. Contrast that to a preindustrial farmer, he said. “You could have an ethic of hard work, but that work is not going to be governed by a clock. It’s typically going to be governed by natural cues. The clock establishes this external authority that’s not you.” In the United States by the mid-1800s, another issue arose: time zones. There were more than 40 based around cities, which O’Malley said forced railroad companies to switch dynamically as trains traveled. Worried that other entities would standardize the zones and disrupt their businesses, the companies acted. “The American Railway Association got all the American railroads to agree that on Nov. 18, 1883, they would declare a four-zone system in effect in America,” O’Malley said. “And they just announced it.” Time can be cudgel It’s hardly the only occasion where the perception of time has involved national or global concerns. Take the Prime Meridian, the entirely made-up longitude line running from the North Pole to the South Pole, that divides Earth into eastern and western hemispheres and is used as the basis for global timekeep-

ing as well as navigation. It runs through Greenwich, England, and was selected at an international conference in 1884. Was that because Greenwich was the ideal place? No, Birth said — it simply was established during “a period when the British Empire was one of the dominant empires in the world.” Time zones themselves “are about politics,” he said, pointing out that they are not divided in a standard format. Countries decide their own, and in the U.S., the individual states can decide if they observe Daylight Saving or not. A prime example is China, which stretches more than 3,000 miles across Asia. It has one official time zone for the country, instituted when the Communist Party took power in 1949 as a form of national unity. The entire country runs officially on Beijing time, but the reality on the ground when the sun rises in eastern China hours before it rises in western China is people adjust with their own local times for daily life, Birth said. Time can also be a tool used in a society to manage dissent and protest, Cohen said. She pointed to examples like governments instituting curfews or protesters engaging in slowdowns or strikes. “Time has a lot of power,” she said, “and people are battling over it to try and impose themselves on others or remove the yoke that has been imposed on them.”

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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

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obituaries

Harold “Tommy” Thomas Trogdon Jr. Jan. 14, 1951 – Aug. 10, 2026 Harold “Tommy” Thomas Trogdon Jr., 75, of Asheboro, died Monday, August 10, 2026, at his home. There are no services scheduled at this time. Tommy was born on January 14, 1951, in Randolph County, the son of the late Harold Trogdon, Sr., and Ola Mae Parris Trogdon. He attended Asheboro High School. He was the owner and operator of Unique Construction before his retirement. He worked mostly around the coast building hotels for Courtyard Marriott. Tommy had a generous heart and would often help people when they were down on their luck by picking them up, feeding them, and getting them a hotel room so they could have a nice, clean shower. Tommy also had a big furry heart for his cats. In addition to his parents, Tommy was preceded in death by his brother, Steve Tate; and grandson, Cody Gurkin. Tommy is survived by his daughter, Misty Trogdon of Bennett; son, Shane Trogdon of Holden Beach; sisters, Carolyn Hunt Smith of Asheboro; brother, Darrell Trogdon (Rosalyn) of New London; and grandchildren, Maci Trogdon and Madison Trogdon. In honor of his love for his cats, the family kindly asks you to honor Tommy’s memory by donating to Randolph SPCA, 300 W. Bailey Street, Asheboro, NC 27203.

Lynn Pentedemos July 25, 1975 – Aug. 13, 2026 Lynn Ann Hamm Pentedemos, 51, of Sophia, passed away Thursday, August 13, 2026, at her home. A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, with Pastor Chad Davis officiating. Lynn was born on July 25, 1975, in Fort Knox, KY. She enjoyed expressing herself through art, whether it was through arts and crafts projects like quilting or even singing karaoke with family. She loved to play card games with family during the holidays and spend time outdoors camping, fishing, and 4-wheeling. Lynn also liked watching movies and had an impressive collection of DVDs. She is survived by her husband, Mike Pentedemos; sons, Charlie Diehl, Brendon Baker; stepsons, Julian Pentedemos (Makenzie), Jake Pentedemos, Justin Pentedemos (Taylor); sisters, Savana Hamm, Julie Davis (Chad); half brothers, Jeff Hamm, Brandon Hamm; stepbrother, Shane Hale; parents, Jeffrey Lynn Hamm (Rondi), Debra Roar Savvas (Konstantine); three grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family. The family will receive friends from 12:45 until 1:45 p.m. on Thursday at Ridge Funeral Home, prior to the service.

Raymond Phillip Jarrell June 19, 1952 – Aug. 13, 2026 Raymond Phillip Jarrell, 74, of Central Falls, died Thursday, August 13, 2026, at Alpine Health and Rehabilitation in Asheboro. He was born on June 19, 1952, in Asheboro, NC, to Helen Opal Hill Jarrell and Raymond Tillman Jarrell. Phillip attended Grays Chapel School and graduated from Eastern Randolph High School. He was an employee of Burlington Mills in Central Falls until becoming his mother’s caretaker. He was a history and political enthusiast. Phillip enjoyed banter over government’s failures and successes and invited a debate with any worthy and knowledgeable opponent.

He loved sports, especially professional baseball and football. He was an avid Carolina Tar Heel fan. He eagerly looked forward to regular visits from his California family. Phillip remained a lifelong bachelor and had no children. He was a beloved brother and uncle with several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Phillip was preceded in death by his brothers, Larry Jarrell, Gilbert Jarrell, Thomas Jarrell; sisters, Carolyn Jarrell, Patricia Jarrell Poole, Marie Jarrell Langley; nephew, Bobby Jarrell; and greatniece, Delaina Poole. He is survived by his brother, Vance Jarrell of Central Falls; nieces, Vivian Sykes (James), Stacy Mashakian (Russ), Rochelle Szeliga (Dave), Gidget Woodward (Robert), Tanisha Jarrell; nephews, David Poole (Lori), Charles Poole (Maria), JR Jarrell (Amanda); great nieces, Britney Poole, Laura Moffitt (Kirby) Cassi Szeliga, Piper Szeliga, Ashlee Gunter (Nick), Katlynn Hunt, Willow Laverne Woodward, Abigail Woodward, Rebekah Woodward, McKenna Jarrell, Autumn Jarrell, Page Mashakian; great nephews, Cory Mashakian (Kristin), Caleb Woodward, Jared Hunt, Colby Jarrell, Dallas Gordon (Falon); and twelve great-great nieces and nephew. No services are planned at this time.

Richard “Rick” David Kite

Nancy Bullins Staley

March 9, 1949 – Aug. 12, 2026

Jan. 26, 1947 – Aug. 12, 2026

Richard David Kite, age 77, died peacefully at his home on August 12, 2026. Born in Shenandoah, Virginia, Rick was the eldest child and only son of the late Gleen and Lena Kite. Rick graduated from Page County High School and Elon College (now Elon University) where he was a member of the baseball team. While at Elon, he met his wife, Janice Wood Kite, and they were married in August 1972. Rick spent his entire career at Stuart Furniture, later Klaussner Furniture, retiring in 2012 as the Senior Vice President of Manufacturing. While at Klaussner, Rick traveled extensively and served as a member of the American Home Furnishings Alliance. Over the years, Rick was an active member of his community, often seen on the sidelines coaching his children in sports or in the audience supporting their activities. He was a member of First United Methodist Church and has served on various committees at the church. He has also volunteered throughout the community in various roles, including as Chair of the Uwharrie Society of the United Way of Randolph County. Rick enjoyed golf and working in his yard, but his greatest joy was his family, especially his children and grandchildren. In addition to his wife, Janice, Rick is survived by his daughter Leigh Kite Hickman and her husband, Rob; his son, David Kite; grandchildren, Luke and Caroline Hickman; sisters Susan Painter (Steve) and Penny Markowitz (Powell); sisters-inlaw Barbara Buchanan (Ronny) and Eddie Stone; and numerous nieces and nephews. A service celebrating Rick’s life will take place at 2:00 pm on Saturday, August 22, 2026 at First United Methodist Church, Asheboro. A reception will follow at the church. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: First United Methodist Church, 224 N. Fayetteville Street, Asheboro, NC 27203, or the Rick and Janice Kite Scholarship, c/o Asheboro City Schools Education Foundation, 1126 South Park Street, Asheboro, NC 27203. Pugh Funeral Home in Asheboro is honored to be serving the Kite family.

Nancy Carol Bullins Staley, 79, of Sophia, died Wednesday, August 12, 2026, at her home. A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, 908 Albemarle Road, Asheboro, with Charles Reeder officiating. Burial will follow at Charlotte Methodist Church Cemetery. Nancy was born on January 26, 1947, in Randolph County, the daughter of the late Troy Bullins and Elbia Graves Bullins. She was a graduate of Asheboro High School. She was a retired beautician after owning her own beauty salon. She was very involved in her daughters’ school and activities. Nancy and her husband, Arthur, would make Christmas ornaments every year for all of her daughters’ classmates through school. In her spare time, Nancy enjoyed mowing her yard and cooking for her family. She cared for and loved all of her children, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, Nancy was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur Lee Staley; sisters, Juanita Davis, Peggy Williamson; and brother, Troy Bullins. She is survived by her daughters, Melisa Simmons (Michael) of Sophia, Jennifer Staley of Sophia; sister-inlaw, Inez Hoover of Asheboro; grandchildren, Caleb Simmons (Victorian), Casey Simmons (Addie), Jessica Melton (Nolan); great-grandchildren, Sadie, Gracie, Conrey, Elbi, Ollie, Julia, Braydon, Easton; and numerous nieces and nephews. The family will receive friends from 12:00 until 1:45 p.m., Wednesday, at Ridge Funeral Home prior to the service. Memorials may be made to Hospice of Randolph, 416 Vision Drive, Asheboro, NC 27203; Alzheimer’s Association Western Carolina Chapter, 4600 Park Rd., Suite 250, Charlotte, NC 28209; or to Charlotte Methodist Church Cemetery Fund, P.O. Box 2576, Asheboro, NC 27204. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the nurses and staff at Hospice of Randolph, especially Marie and Ally for the care given to Nancy.

Earnest Eugene “Gene” Routh April 15, 1943 – Aug. 12, 2026 Earnest Eugene “Gene” Routh, age 83, of New Hope Road, Denton, NC, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on August 12, 2026. A funeral service will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, at Friendship Baptist Church in Randleman, with Pastor Landon Flinchum and Pastor Ralph Pugh officiating. Burial will follow at New Hope Methodist Church Cemetery, Denton. Gene is survived by his beloved wife of more than 64 years, Anna Lanier Routh; his children, Regina Hunt (Bruce) and Donald Routh (Kristi); his grandchildren, Elizabeth Scheinert (Cal), Troy Hunt (McKenzie), Mason Hunt (Haleigh), Luke Routh (Sierra), and Coleman Routh; his great-grandchildren, Hunt McCoy Scheinert and Joanna Beth Scheinert; and his sister, Shirley Routh Griffin. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who were a special part of his life. Gene was preceded in death by his parents, Ervin “Bill” Routh and Clara Earnhart Routh; his brothers, Hurley Routh and Harold Routh; and his sister, Lilly May Thompson. Gene was a simple, hardworking man who found his greatest happiness in the things that mattered most—his faith, his family, his church, and his farm. He was a loving husband, a devoted Daddy and Pappaw, a faithful Christian, and a good man whose quiet and steady presence meant more to his family than words can express. Gene grew up in the Tabernacle community, attending Tabernacle Elementary School and Farmer High School. Years later, he returned to school and proudly earned his high school diploma from Randolph Community College. Gene shared his life with his high school sweetheart, Anna. Together, they built a life centered around faith, family, hard work, and love. Gene loved being a Daddy and Pappaw, and his family always knew they could depend on him. Many of his greatest lessons were taught simply by the way he lived. He worked hard, took care of his family, helped others, kept his word, and stayed faithful to the Lord. Gene was never afraid of hard work. As a young man, he worked as a mason and later at B.B. Walker Shoes. He spent much of his career in the furniture industry, serving as a supervisor with Stuart Furniture and later Klaussner Furniture until his retirement.

Richard “Ricky” Alvin McElreath Jan. 22, 1960 – Aug. 14, 2026 Richard “Ricky” Alvin McElreath, 66, of Asheboro, passed away on Friday, August 14, 2026, at his home. A celebration of life will be held at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, August 20, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, 908 Albemarle Road, Asheboro, with Mike Jones officiating. Ricky was born on January 22, 1960, in Randolph County, the son of the late Alvin Buddy

But if you really knew Gene, you knew how much he loved his farm. He loved raising cows, being outdoors, and knowing what was happening around him. Even when his health no longer allowed him to work, Gene enjoyed sitting near the fields with a glass of Anna’s sweet tea, watching his son and grandsons carry on the work he had done for so many years. The farm was more than land to him; it was home, filled with a lifetime of hard work and family memories. There was comfort in knowing that the farm he had worked and cared for would continue in the hands of the family he loved so dearly. Gene also deeply loved the Lord and his church family. As a founding member of Friendship Baptist Church in Asheboro, he faithfully served the church for many years. He helped lay the masonry for the church’s first location. Years later, when the church stepped out in faith to build a new facility, Gene once again answered the call to serve. As a trustee, he took seriously the responsibility of helping make sure the church met its financial obligations. He wanted to see the church succeed, not because he wanted recognition or praise, but simply because he loved his church and believed in its ministry. Through the years, Gene also served as a deacon and Sunday School Superintendent and sang in the choir. Friendship Baptist Church was not simply where Gene went on Sundays; it was his church home, and its people were his church family. Gene leaves behind a family who will miss him in more ways than they can count. They will miss his voice and his stories. They will miss seeing him at home and simply knowing he was there. They will miss those ordinary, everyday things that did not seem particularly important at the time but now feel incredibly precious. They will miss the familiar presence of a man who had simply always been there. There is a deep sadness that comes with saying goodbye to someone who has been such a steady part of your life for so many years. Gene’s place at home will be empty. His familiar voice will be missed. The farm will not feel quite the same without him watching over things. And there will always be moments when his family wishes they could sit with him one more time, hear one more story, or share one more glass of sweet tea. Gene loved the Lord, and because of that, his family does not grieve without hope. The hands that worked so hard have been stilled. The burdens of age and illness have been laid down. And the man who spent his life caring for his family, working his land, serving his church, and trusting his Lord has gone home. For those who loved him, this is goodbye for now—but not forever. “I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7 The family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Hospice of Randolph County and the members of Friendship Baptist Church for the kindness, prayers, love, and support shown to Gene and his family during his illness.

McElreath and Annie Ruth Inman McElreath. If you knew Ricky, you knew he was a major tennis enthusiast. Turning his passion into a career, he started here in Asheboro and won across the state before settling back down in his hometown. He was devoted to teaching children the joys of tennis and loved watching them excel. Ricky also had a big heart for animals of all kinds, including dogs, cats and even fish. He will be remembered for his contagious laugh and great sense of humor, and, of course, his lasting legacy in the community through tennis. Ricky is survived by his wife, Lori McElreath; stepdaughters, Stacie Sells (Travis), Brittany Pendry (Matt); brother, Larry McElreath; grandchildren, Hannah, Anderson, Tyler, Grant; dogs, Kya, Wilson, Diamond; and cat, Snowbell. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Randolph SPCA, 300 W. Bailey Street, Asheboro, NC 27203; or to Randolph County Animal Shelter, 1370 County Land Rd., Randleman, NC 27317.

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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

STATE & NATION Democrats disagree over abolishing or reforming ICE at DNC meeting Party divisions on the proposal foreshadow immigration battles ahead of 2028 By Mike Catalini The Associated Press AUSTIN, Texas — Democrats on Saturday approved dueling messages on whether U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement should be abolished or reformed, reflecting sharp opposition to President Donald Trump’s crackdown but revealing disagreement in the party ahead of the midterms. The Democratic National Committee, gathered for a summer meeting, also signed off on a raft of policy positions, including one that calls for “concrete reforms” of ICE and another for abolishing the agency that’s been at the center of several fatal encounters. ICE has been at the heart of

a progressive rallying cry since 2018 during the first Trump administration and has been renewed among some in the party after two recent fatal shootings by the agency in July. Saturday’s vote isn’t binding and doesn’t set the party’s platform, which will be determined at the 2028 convention, but it reflects the party’s differing views on a major issue. Candidates and lawmakers will continue to determine their own positions on the issue. Michele Johnson, a DNC member from Louisiana who proposed the measure to abolish ICE, said it’s time for Democrats to take a stand and pointed to the dissolution of ICE’s predecessor agency, the Immigration and Naturalization Service, as a precedent. “I think one of the reasons why people are not trusting the party is because we sound so academic,” she said. “We sound focus group tested, we sound poll

JOEL ANGEL JUAREZ / AP PHOTO

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin speaks during a Labor Council meeting last Thursday, in Austin, Texas. tested because we’re worried about saying the wrong thing or doing the wrong thing and not just like, just stand on business, like take a position.” Not every DNC member was convinced, though. Yvonne Reeves-Chong voted against

the measure, saying it would only gain support from a part of the party’s base, while drawing “fire” from another group of voters. “I would strongly suggest we get to the business of winning races so we can make the policies that make a difference,” she said. DNC Chairman Ken Martin, who’s from Minnesota, where Renee Good and Alex Pretti were fatally shot amid the immigration crackdown earlier this year, said in an interview that the takeaway is that Democrats find the administration’s handling of immigration, including by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, unacceptable. “Clearly, the one thing that unites Democrats, regardless of their position on reform versus abolish or whatever other ways to change what’s happening, is people believe that what ICE is doing right now — and CBP

Trump orders Pentagon to scale back joint exercises with South Korea South Korea declined to aid U.S. efforts against Iran, prompting the military exercise reductions

By Konstantin Toropin and Alanna Durkin Richer The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump ordered the Pentagon on Sunday to scale back annual joint military exercises with South Korea, saying the ally declined to help with the war against Iran and citing his good relationship with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. Trump said in a social media post that the exercises, which began Monday, are not only costly but “send a signal that is totally inappropriate and hostile” to North Korea, which he said “has been unthreatening and respectful” during his time in the White House. “Therefore, and based on the fact that it is too late to cancel, I have instructed Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to substantially reduce the Joint Military Exercises!” Trump wrote. The president added that he recently asked South Korea’s president if they would join the U.S. in the “denuclearization” of Iran, “and they said, ‘No thanks!’” The move is the latest example of the president appearing to turn against an ally in favor of a leader that previous administrations have cast as an adversary. Trump and others in his administration have also railed against NATO allies over per-

ceived lack of support for his war against Iran, even as they seek to confront an increasingly aggressive Russia in the Baltic region. It is also a sharp turnaround from how his administration has viewed South Korea in recent months. In May, Hegseth praised the longtime ally for its “commitment to increase defense spending” and its “leadership in assuming primary responsibility for the security of the Korean Peninsula” during a meeting at the Pentagon. “It demonstrates alliance burden-sharing that all of America’s partners would do well to follow,” the defense secretary added.

JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO

President Donald Trump gestures as he boards Air Force One at Morristown Airport on Sunday in Morristown, New Jersey.

What U.S. military says about joint exercises The 11 days of exercises involving 18,000 South Korean soldiers were designed to beef up readiness against North Korean threats. The U.S. military has said the summertime Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises reinforce “the role of the alliance as the linchpin for regional peace and security” and reaffirm “the ironclad commitment between the United States and the Republic of Korea to defend their homelands.” The exercises are one of the two main combined drills conducted by the South Korean and U.S. militaries annually, along with their springtime training. U.S. and South Korean forces were expected to practice joint operations in complex scenari-

“Hollowing out these joint exercises is shortsighted and a mistake.” Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), former Navy pilot os, including a live-fire exercise to test joint precision targeting and maneuver, a wet gap crossing, and distribution of prepositioned military equipment, according to the U.S. military. South Korea’s Defense Ministry confirmed that the exercises began on Monday as planned. The joint training started days after North Korea resumed ballistic missile testing activities in defiance of U.N. bans. Trump’s decision was sharp-

ly criticized by Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, a former Navy pilot, who said that “hollowing out these joint exercises is shortsighted and a mistake” in a social media post made just hours after the president’s own post. Earlier this month, South Korea, the U.S. and Japan detected the launches of two ballistic missiles from North Korea in what were the North’s first ballistic weapons testing activities since late June. The missiles landed in the waters off North Korea’s east coast. North Korea threatens strong response North Korea has been pushing hard to enlarge its nuclear and missile arsenals since Kim’s high-stakes diplomacy with Trump collapsed in 2019.

“Clearly, the one thing that unites Democrats, regardless of their position on reform versus abolish or whatever other ways to change what’s happening, is people believe that what ICE is doing right now.” Ken Martin, DNC Chairman and the federal government — should stop,” he said. “There has to be a better way.” Immigration remained a stronger issue for Trump than the economy or Iran, according to a poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research released this month, even after three people were killed in encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the span of under a week in July. Overall, the survey found that only 39% of U.S. adults approve of his performance on immigration, down from 49% at the beginning of his second term.

Experts say Kim likely believes a bigger weapons arsenal would increase his chances for wresting more concessions from the U.S. in future negotiations. North Korea on Friday threatened unspecified stern steps against the U.S. and South Korea, describing their military drills as “a rehearsal for an aggressive war” that are triggering greater instability in the region. The warning was typical of the harsh rhetoric that North Korea often deploys ahead of major U.S.-South Korean military exercises. Experts say North Korea has often used its rivals’ drills as a pretext to ramp up testing activities to modernize weapons and promote public support for the reclusive North Korean leader. Trump met with the North Korean leader three times during his first term to discuss the country’s nuclear program, most recently in 2019. Since returning to office, Trump has expressed interest in continuing those discussions. In September 2025, Kim said he held “good personal memories” of Trump and suggested he could return to talks if the U.S. drops “its delusional obsession with denuclearization” of North Korea. Trump’s announcement came a day after he posted a photo of himself standing next to North Korea’s Kim, writing that the two leaders get along great “despite the unfriendly look on this particular picture.” This is not the first time that Trump has sought to end the exercises. During his first term he also issued a surprise announcement that called the war games “provocative.” “We will be stopping the war games, which will save us a tremendous amount of money, unless and until we see the future negotiation is not going along like it should,” Trump told reporters after his 2018 meeting with Kim in Singapore.

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Coming at you Asheboro’s Madeline Hodge spikes the ball against the block attempts from Wheatmore’s Lexi Kiel, left, and MacKenzie Edwards during last week’s season-opening volleyball match in Asheboro. Area teams mostly had good starts to the season. For more details and a roundup of prep volleyball results, see Page B2.

Teams full of optimism as season’s kick-off nears Every Randolph team will stay within the county borders for the first week of the football season By Bob Sutton Randolph Record THE START of the high school football season comes Friday night. All seven teams from Randolph County are scheduled to be in action — and all of them

will play within the county for the openers. Here’s a look at the matchups. Randleman at Providence Grove Providence Grove won the Central Carolina 3A Conference title in Cody Moran’s first season as coach in 2025. The Patriots’ 8-3 record included a 31-14 season-opening loss to neighboring Randleman. Connor Haithcock, Chase

Collins, Nick Straughn and Easton Ibe should give Providence Grove a good foundation of returning players. Randleman also has a second-year coach in David Diamont. The Tigers went 7-4 last year, including their fourth consecutive victory in the series with Providence Grove. The Tigers will have a different style on offense with Reid Herring at quarterback following three-year starter John Kirkpatrick.

Hayes heads back to Thomasville after stint at UCA After stops at schools in Randolph County, he was ready to make another move

“I was excited to get back into coaching.” David Hayes, outgoing AD at UCA

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record AFTER TWO stops at schools in Randolph County, David Hayes has taken a coaching position back at Thomasville. Hayes is leaving Uwharrie Charter Academy following two years as athletics director to join the staff for the Thomasville football program and teach at the school. “I’ve been at Thomasville before, and I love that place,” Hayes said, noting he lives about 6 miles from the school. It also will mark a return to his roots as an on-field coach. “I didn’t know if I was going to get back into coaching,” he said. Hayes has been wrapping up duties at UCA this month while

COURTESY PHOTO

David Hayes also handling preseason coaching duties as a new member of the Thomasville football staff. Hayes is a former head coach for football at Providence Grove. He’s a Trinity graduate, and he has held a stint as girls’ basketball coach at Asheboro. Hayes also started a middle school football program at UCA, which hasn’t played football on the varsity level. With Thomasville, Hayes will

work with the offensive staff. He said stepping in rather late in the lead-up to season means he’ll have to adapt to what the team needs. Still, this is a move that he says makes sense on several levels. He has two elementary-school aged children and shedding the AD label should free up time overall. “As an AD, you’re on call all the time,” he said. Plus, his roots are in coaching, and after a couple of years away from that on the varsity level, there was a desire to taste that again. “I was excited to get back into coaching,” he said.

Southern Alamance at Eastern Randolph Eastern Randolph made a deep run into the state playoffs last year before finishing with a 10-3 record. The Wildcats, under veteran coach Burton Cates, will look to repeat their opening-game success from last season when they prevailed 20-8 at Southern Alamance. Eastern Randolph has a veteran offensive backfield

with quarterback Cade McCallum and running backs James Combs and Kobe Walker all returning in prominent roles. Southern Alamance went on to finish with an 8-4 record last year. Starting quarterback Tustin Johnson had knee surgery in the spring following a lacrosse injury, but he’s expected to be available for the opener. See FOOTBALL, page B2

Cougars start strong coming off soccer state title Southwestern Randolph boys’ soccer has notched victories right away under a new coach

Randolph Record staff SOUTHWESTERN Randolph picked up right where it left off in boys’ soccer. The 2025 state champions in Class 4A rattled visiting Randleman 6-0 to open the new season and provide a victory in Jeff Tyl’s coaching debut last week. Tyl moved up from an assistant coaching role upon Jimmy Walker’s retirement from the coaching position. Yael Rebollar-Ortiz and Kevin Garcia each scored two goals in the Randleman game. Alejandro Jimenez and Griffin Hall had the other goals.

The Cougars had another strong performance in drilling visiting Trinity 9-2, with Rebollar-Ortiz, Garcia and Holt Tyl all recording two goals. Griffin Hall, Ghio Hernandez and David Leon also scored. This week at home, Southwestern Randolph was slated for the first of two meetings this year with 2025 Class 5A state champion Western Alamance. • Asheboro opened the season with a 2-1 setback at Wilmington Ashley, with Ivan Castaneda scoring for the Blue Comets. With goals from Brian Bautista and Juan Macias, the Blue Comets bounced back to beat Wallace-Rose Hill 2-0 in a neutral-site game in Wilmington. • Salisbury socked visiting Randleman 7-2. See SOCCER, page B2

B2

Randolph Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

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Solid results mark start of season for area teams The season began with most Randolph County teams securing multiple victories in the first week

Randolph Record staff UWHARRIE CHARTER Academy’s volleyball team, a 2025 state finalist in Class 4A, began the new season with some strong results, although it wasn’t all smooth. UCA trounced visiting Richmond County 25-9, 25-16, 25-13 in its opener last week. Then UCA and Southwestern Randolph were among the participants in the North/ South Invitational on Friday and Saturday in Rock Hill, South Carolina. They were in different divisions. UCA posted victories against Upstate Falcons Home Educators 25-10, 25-22 and against East Rowan 25-11, 25-15 on Friday. On Saturday, UCA took down East Chapel Hill 2519, 25-19, but the Eagles lost 25-23, 25-21 to Reagan and

fell 25-23, 15-25, 15-13 to North Stanly. • Southwestern Randolph opened the season with a 25-20, 25-15, 25-23 victory against host Randleman. In the North/South Invitational, the Cougars went 2-3. Southwestern Randolph fell to Mountain View Prep by 25-22, 25-14 and lost to Catawba Ridge by 25-23, 25-11 on Friday. The next day, the Cougars dropped a 25-21, 18-25, 15-9 result to Weddington, but they defeated Charlotte Christian 25-13, 19-25, 15-10 and topped Ardrey Kell 25-22, 21-25, 15-11. • Providence Grove opened the season by defeating host Chatham Charter 26-28, 27-25, 25-12, 25-12 with Adalyn Whitaker supplying 23 kills and 13 digs. Emma Wilson had 19 digs. The Patriots also won at North Moore by 25-18, 25-13, 25-18. • Randleman, which reached the Class 4A East Region final last year, outlasted host Eastern Randolph 25-27, 25-15, 22-25, 25-16, 15-9 in the Tigers’ coach-

Beard cruises ahead of field at Caraway The special Limited Late Models race was conducted without a caution

SOPHIA — Coy Beard was too fast for others in the Limited Late Models feature Saturday night at Caraway Speedway. Beard, who had the best time in the weather-delayed qualifying, won the caution-free 99-lap race ahead of Bryson Brinkley. Beard’s car was so strong that following a redraw after 50 laps he quickly regained the front position after start-

ing sixth. Austin Harris, who benefited from the redraw by moving to the front, finished third, followed by Dylan Ward and Nicholas Bulkeley. Cam Thomas, Dalton Ledbetter, Donnie Apple, Brandon Clements, Carson Ware, Joshua Horniman and Kenko Miura rounded out the field. • In the Chargers race, Trey Burke was first by less than a half-second ahead of Enoch McNeill in the 35-lapper. Isaac Harris ended up third, followed by Richard Shoffner and Tyler Bush. • The rear-wheel drive Mini Stocks winner was Luke Smith, with Brandon Clements in the runner-up spot.

FOOTBALL from page B1

Scotland at Asheboro

The last time a team from Alamance County visited Ramseur, Eastern Alamance pulled out a victory in the 2023 opener.

This matchup was quickly arranged after High Point Central, which would have been Asheboro’s opponent on opening night, announced during the winter that it wouldn’t field a varsity team this year. Asheboro has been on an upward trajectory, and the Blue Comets will look to take another step in coach Calvin Brown’s fourth season. Asheboro went 7-4 last year. There are proven players still around for Asheboro, including quarterback Dallas Brinton and running back Connor Brinton. The Blue Comets have won their last three season openers. This will be one of only two road games for Scotland until October. The Scots went 8-4 last year.

Randolph Record staff COURTESY OF JUST A DAD PHOTOGRAPHY

Trinity’s Avalynn Johnson prepares to return a ball during a match against McMichael.

Trinity, volleyball Johnson began her fourth season of making contributions on the court for the Bulldogs when the season started last week. Johnson, a senior setter, has consistently been delivering assists at a high rate for Trinity, which got off to a 2-0 start to the season. She led the team in assists in victories against both McMichael and Mount Airy. A year ago, Johnson was charted with more than 800 assists. The Bulldogs are aiming for their fourth consecutive winning season.

COUGARS from page B1 • Wheatmore and host North Carolina Leadership Academy tied 1-1. Edyl Amaya scored for Wheatmore.

• Trinity took down visiting Kernersville Glenn 2-0 by scoring a pair of second-half goals. • Eastern Randolph fell 6-0 at East Davidson.

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East Davidson at Southwestern Randolph Southwestern Randolph has put together five consecutive winning seasons. Coach Seth Baxter has numerous holes to fill, but there are several key players from a year ago on the roster. Trivett Kennedy, Logan Marsh, Levi Dalke and Colton McKee are all returning all-conference selections for Southwestern Randolph. The Cougars hammered East Davidson 30-0 last year for one of their four victories by margins of 30 or more points. East Davidson finished 1-10 last year for its third losing season in a row.

South Davidson at Trinity Second-year Trinity coach Mark Raynor has a tough chore after the Bulldogs lost their fi-

ing debut for Kari Hankins. • Avalynn Johnson had 42 assists and 18 service points as Trinity began the season by defeating visiting McMichael 22-25, 27-25, 25-19, 25-14. Addison McCoy racked up 22 service points, and Hali Cox had 17 kills. Trinity improved to 2-0 by topping visiting Mount Airy 25-19, 25-20, 25-17 with Johnson’s 19 assists and Bryn Holden’s 13 service points providing boosts. • Asheboro began with a 25-16, 25-12, 25-20 home triumph against Wheatmore with Lydia Scearce and Ady Scherer posting seven aces apiece. The Blue Comets won again by rolling past visiting Eastern Randolph 25-13, 25-12, 25-16 with Scherer’s 10 kills, Kailey Brown’s 34 assists and Lily Hunt’s 11 digs leading the way. • Wheatmore lost 25-14, 20-25, 25-16, 25-21 to visiting Central Davidson in its opener. The Warriors got into the win column in their third match, topping visiting South Davidson 25-23, 20-25, 25-22, 25-12.

For the front-wheel drive Mini Stocks, Jason Gallimore claimed the victory. • There were twin 10-lap sprints for UCARs, with Justin Smith and Jimmy Cooper the winners. Cooper also collected a runner-up spot, while trailing him in the race he won was second-place Mason Vance. Division points leader Tito Clapp had finishes of fourth and sixth place. Smith and Skyler Hughes had the best finishes in qualifying heats. • In Crown Vics, the winner was Bubba Cline ahead of Corey Wyatt in the 12-lap dash. • Chris Burns was the winner in both Grand National Super Series features, with Jamie Mosley the runner-up in both races. • The East Coast Flat Head Ford Racing Association held races as part of the card. Wayne Lawson won in the Sportsman division and Richard Wikle was tops in Modifieds.

nal five games in a 1-9 season last year. All-conference running back Zaire Gill is back. Trinity will be home for three of its first four games. The first assignment is trying to reverse a 21-0 loss to South Davidson from last year. South Davidson went on to register a 10-2 record. East Rowan at Wheatmore Wheatmore enters its third season under coach Jacob Sheffield. The Warriors went 3-9 last year, though that included a first-round victory in the Class 3A state playoffs. There were numerous underclassmen making notable contributions on that team for Wheatmore. Quarterback Connor Benton and linebacker Noah Wyrick are among the players expected to hold critical roles this year. Kenny Hoover, Bentley Mills, Delano Samuelson and Maddox Russo are also impact players. East Rowan prevailed 20-13 last year against the Warriors.

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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

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pen & paper pursuits this week in history American Civil War ends, Salad Bowl strike begins, Paris liberated

1932: Amelia Earhart embarked on a 19-hour flight from Los Angeles to Newark, New Jersey, making her the first woman to fly solo, nonstop, from coast to coast. 1992: Hurricane Andrew smashed into Florida; the storm resulted in 65 deaths and caused more than $26 billion in damage across Florida, Louisiana and the Bahamas.

The Associated Press AUG. 20 1858: Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution was first published in the “Journal of the Proceedings of the Linnean Society.” 1862: The New York Tribune published an open letter by editor Horace Greeley calling on President Abraham Lincoln to take more aggressive measures to free enslaved people and end the South’s rebellion. 1866: President Andrew Johnson declared the official end of the Civil War. AUG. 21 1831: Nat Turner launched a violent slave rebellion in Virginia, resulting in the deaths of at least 55 white people; scores of black people were killed in retribution after the rebellion, and Turner was later executed. 1858: The first of seven debates took place between Illinois senatorial contenders Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas. 1911: Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa” was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris. (It was recovered two years later in Italy.) AUG. 22 1791: The Haitian Revolution began as enslaved people of Saint-Domingue rose up against French colonizers. 1851: The schooner America outraced more than a dozen British vessels off the English coast to win a trophy that

AUG. 25 OSWALD W. BRIERLY / NATIONAL MARITIME MUSEUM, GREENWICH VIA WIKIPEDIA

On Aug. 22, 1851, the schooner America defeated more than a dozen British vessels in a race off the English coast.

came to be known as the America’s Cup. 1910: Japan annexed Korea, which remained under Japanese control until the end of World War II. AUG. 23 1305: Scottish rebel leader Sir William Wallace was executed by the English for treason. 1775: Britain’s King George III proclaimed the American colonies to be in a state of “open and avowed rebellion.” 1970: The Salad Bowl strike began, organized by farm labor leader Cesar Chavez; between 5,000 to 10,000 laborers walked off the job, leading to the largest farmworker strike in U.S. history. AUG. 24 1814: During the War of 1812, British forces invaded Washington, D.C., setting fire to the still-under-construction Capitol and the White House, as well as other public buildings.

1916: President Woodrow Wilson signed the National Park Service Organic Act, establishing the National Park Service as an agency of the U.S. Department of the Interior to maintain the country’s natural and historic wonders and “leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.” 1944: Paris was liberated by Allied forces after four years of Nazi occupation during World War II. 1948: In the House Un-American Activities Committee’s first televised congressional hearing, Alger Hiss denied charges by Whittaker Chambers that Hiss was a communist involved in espionage. AUG. 26 1939: The first televised Major League Baseball games were broadcast on experimental station W2XBS: a doubleheader between the Cincinnati Reds and the Brooklyn Dodgers at Ebbets Field. 1944: French Gen. Charles de Gaulle braved the threat of German snipers as he led a victory march in Paris, which had just been liberated by the Allies from Nazi occupation. 1958: Alaskans went to the polls to overwhelmingly vote in favor of statehood.

On Aug. 26, 1944, thousands packed Paris to celebrate the city’s liberation from Nazi occupation as Gen. Charles de Gaulle led a victory parade.

PETER J. CARROLL / AP PHOTO

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‘Comes in Waves,’ new Simon album, chronicles journey of love, loss For fans of the artist herself and pop torch singers By Hillel Italie The Associated Press ON HER FIRST album with original songs in nearly 20 years, Carly Simon is still working on some old demons and still determined to outlast them. “Maybe I never loved you / But anyway, I thought I did / I married you, we had a kid,” she sings in a ballad you could imagine Simon addressing to her ex-husband, James Taylor. “And maybe you never loved me / Although God knows you said you did.” Simon announced last month that she had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease while recording “Comes in Waves” and that she also had surgery to remove a cancerous skin growth. But this album feels less like an ending than a continuation of themes and events that have inspired and defined her from early in her career — yearning, discontent, desire, uncertainty, her marriage to Taylor and the loss of her father, the publisher Richard Simon, who died when Carly was in her teens. “Howl” is the album’s lead track, first single and table setter — a midtempo rocker addressed to a heartbroken friend (or to herself?) whom Simon urges to “Get it out of your system / Bang your fists and beat your brow.” The other songs unfold as if to dramatize the album’s title, as Simon’s mood shifts from defiance to regret to melancholy to resolve and a willingness to try again, a cycle cushioned (to a fault) by the literal-minded production and arrangements of David Spencer, Frank Filipetti and

IRIS RECORDS VIA AP

“Comes In Waves” by Carly Simon is the artist’s first studio album since 2009.

“Get it out of your system / Bang your fists and beat your brow.” Carly Simon son Ben Taylor, among others. “Comes in Waves” includes a remaster of Simon’s decades-old political song “Share the End,” and elsewhere echoes moments from her previous records. “Maybe I Never Loved You,” inspired by the late playwright Tim Mayer, feels like Simon’s version of “I Get Along Without You Very Well (Except Sometimes),” the Hoagy Carmichael standard she covered on her 1981 “Torch” album. “The Father-Daughter Dance” suggests the pain of a ballad about her father from the early 1970s,

SOLUTIONS FOR THIS WEEK

“Embrace Me, You Child.” Simon also teases courtship (“Peaches”); celebrates parenthood (“Mother of Pearl,” a tribute to daughter and “child of divorce” Sally Taylor); and savors life’s “wild ride” (“Love the Way I Do”). The catchiest song is by a departed friend, the late Judy Belushi, widow of comedian John Belushi: “Four in the Morning” has a close-up, tiptoeing pace fitting for lyrics about an unhappy wife who slips away from her snoring husband. Simon, who turned 83 this year, doesn’t hit all the notes of her best known records, but she has lost none of her gifts for taking hold of a melody and putting her whole self into the words. Her musical journey has always been personal, and longtime Simon fans are the most likely to enjoy catching up with her. Others may feel like they had to be there.

Garfield finds wonder in everyday life in ‘The Magic Faraway Tree’ Author Enid Blyton’s children’s books inspired the film By Lizzie Knight The Associated Press ANDREW GARFIELD wants audiences to look up from their phones and remember that there is still plenty of magic in the world around them. That idea drew the two-time Oscar nominee to “The Magic Faraway Tree,” a family adventure about Tim, a stay-at-home father whose family is forced to reconsider life after his wife, Polly, quits her job. They move to the countryside, where their children discover the magical Faraway Tree and its ever-changing worlds, sending the family into a series of fantastical adventures. The film, based on Enid Blyton’s children’s books, arrives in U.S. theaters Friday. For Garfield, the story’s themes of nature, imagination and community feel especially timely as technology increasingly shapes everyday life. “I think people are craving connection and community and a kind of reconnection to the earth and to each other,” he said. Garfield said he became passionate about the project after reading Simon Farnaby’s screenplay. “I really just adore his sense of whimsy and heartfulness and magic and joy,” he said. “I felt very, very passionate about it.” Tim’s journey reflects the film’s larger ideas about finding wonder outside the routine and distractions of modern life. For Garfield, that sense of won-

CJ RIVERA / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Nicolas Brown, from left, director Ben Gregor, Claire Foy and Andrew Garfield attend “The Magic Faraway Tree” special screening at Regal Union Square in New York. der extends beyond fantasy. “I think it’s all around us,” he said. “There are so many things to be in awe of on this planet.” The film, he said, is ultimately about recognizing that “there’s magic in the ordinary” as well as in the extraordinary. Garfield, whose credits include playing Spider-Man, says he is drawn to roles with an element of play, community and the natural world. He focuses on “anything that keeps me awake to the remembering of the connection that we have to each other, the connection we have to nature, how we are all interconnected,” he said. Garfield grew up reading Enid Blyton’s “The Famous Five” with his brother but did not read “The Faraway Tree” series as a child. His mother introduced him to another beloved literary adventurer: Bil-

bo Baggins, the hero of J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit.” “Any underdog story, really, those are the ones that get me,” Garfield said. Another childhood escape was the video store. Garfield remembers being fascinated by the rows of VHS tapes and the possibilities behind their covers. The habit has survived in a new form in adulthood: spending an evening browsing streaming services without picking anything, enjoying the feeling of looking “into the windows of all these imaginary worlds.” That may help explain why Garfield welcomes the resurgence of VHS and other analog technology among younger audiences. “I dig that,” he said. “The regression to analog is looking good to me.”

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famous birthdays this week Newton native Tori Amos turns 63, Tom Ridge turns 81, Branford Marsalis is 66 The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week. AUG. 20 Boxing promoter Don King is 95. Former U.S. senator and diplomat George Mitchell is 93. Rock singer Robert Plant is 78. Country singer Rudy Gatlin is 74. Singer-songwriter John Hiatt is 74. Actor-director Peter Horton is 73. Actor Joan Allen is 70. NBC anchor Al Roker is 72.

MARK HUMPHREY / AP PHOTO

Musician and singer Tori Amos turns 63 Saturday.

AUG. 21 Rock and Roll Hall of Famer James Burton is 87. Singer Jackie DeShannon is 85. Film director Peter Weir is 82. Football Hall of Famer Willie Lanier is 81. Actor Loretta Devine is 77. Two-time Heisman Trophy winner Archie Griffin is 72. Actor Kim Cattrall is 70. AUG. 22 Author Annie Proulx is 91. Baseball Hall of Famer Carl Yastrzemski is 87. Pro Football Hall of Fame coach Bill Parcells is 85. Writer-producer David Chase is 81. Rock singer Roland Orzabal (Tears For Fears) is 65. Singer Tori Amos is 63.

CHARLES SYKES / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Boxing promoter Don King turns 95 Thursday.

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Actor Vera Miles is 97. Actor Barbara Eden is 95. Ballerina Patricia McBride is 84. Singer-songwriter Linda Thompson is 79. Author and motivational speaker Rudy Ruettiger is 78. Actor Shelley Long is 77. Actor-singer Rick Springfield is 77.

Actor Tom Skerritt is 93. Former U.S. Poet Laureate Charles Wright is 91. Film director John Badham is 87. Baseball Hall of Famer Rollie Fingers is 80. Rock musician Gene Simmons (Kiss) is 77. Rock singer Rob Halford (Judas Priest) is 75. Musician Elvis Costello is 72. Film director Tim Burton is 68.

AUG. 24 Composer-musician Mason Williams is 88. R&B singer Marshall Thompson (The Chi-Lites) is 84. WWE co-founder Vince McMahon is 81. Author Paulo Coelho is 79. Actor Anne Archer is 79. Actor Steve Guttenberg is 68. Baseball Hall of Famer Cal Ripken Jr. is 66.

AUG. 26 Former Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge is 81. R&B singer Valerie Simpson (Ashford & Simpson) is 80. Broadcast journalist Bill Whitaker is 75. Puzzle creator/editor Will Shortz is 74. Jazz musician Branford Marsalis is 66. Actor Macaulay Culkin is 46.

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Randolph Record for Thursday, August 20, 2026

the stream

AMY HARRIS / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Weezer performs during the 2025 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival in Indio, California. The band will release its 20th studio album Friday.

‘Outer Banks,’ Anthony Hopkins’ classical album, Anne Hathaway’s 1st 2026 movie Weezer drops “The Gold Album” on Friday

zel Eyes.” It’s a follow-up to 2023’s “Gloria” — which features the sexy and sacrilegious “Unholy” collaboration with Kim Petras, the track that gave Smith their most recent Grammy win. This time around, Smith offers warm love songs. It’s a welcome change of pace from their previous heartbreak material.

The Associated Press THE FINAL season of “Outer Banks” and a new album from Anthony Hopkins (yes, Sir Anthony Hopkins) 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: Weezer’s 20th album, the survival horror game “The Sinking City 2” and “Mother Mary,” which kicked off Anne Hathaway’s incredibly prolific year in theaters.

SERIES TO STREAM

MOVIES TO STREAM Hathaway’s epic year at the movies (which is still going at full throttle with “The End of Oak Street” and the upcoming “Verity”) didn’t start with “The Devil Wears Prada 2” or “The Odyssey” but with “Mother Mary,” David Lowery’s experimental film about a pop star (Hathaway) and her estranged designer (Michaela Coel). In his review for the AP, Film Writer Jake Coyle called it “a fitfully spellbinding chamber drama that grows more operatic with every stitch,” adding, “Hathaway makes not just a believable pop star but an indelible portrait of an artist’s ego in extremes.” But, Coyle wrote, “the movie belongs to Coel … ‘Mother Mary’ is the story of an exorcism, and she’s the exorcist.” It debuts on HBO Max on Friday. Coel also stars in one of the year’s best two-handers, “The Christophers,” which arrives on Hulu on Saturday. Written by Ed Solomon and directed by Steven Soderbergh, the film is a kind of heist movie in disguise, in which a pair of wannabe heirs (James Corden and Jessica Gunning) hire a restoration specialist and sometimes forger (Coel) to covertly finish a series of paintings by their famous father Julian Sklar (Ian McKellen). In her review, AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr wrote that it was “a meditation on art, legacy, creativity and the

VICTORIA WILL / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Michaela Coel, pictured in April in New York, stars in “The Christophers.” oh-so-touchy subject of who has the right to critique,” with sharp performances from all. And finally, it’s a Zahn family affair in “She Dances,” starring Steve Zahn and his daughter Audrey as a father and daughter reconnecting after tragedy on the way to a dance competition. It’s also a “Reality Bites” reunion with Ethan Hawke. Directed by Rick Gomez, the film received warm reviews out of the Tribeca Film Festival and is set to debut on Peacock on Friday. MUSIC TO STREAM Academy Award winner Hopkins will release his debut album, “Life Is a Dream,” Friday via Decca Records. Conducted by Gustavo Dudamel, performed by the Philharmonia Orchestra and recorded at London’s Alexandra Palace in April, the album is a 12-track collection of classical compositions crafted over six decades. “My first love, or vocation really, is music,” the 88-year-old actor told the AP earlier this month. The generational talent picked up piano at 4 and wrote his first

The first two episodes of Season 2 of “Average Joe” are streaming now on Paramount+. The action-comedy stars Deon Cole as a plumber in Pittsburgh whose life becomes complicated — and dangerous — when he learns that his dad, who recently died, owes $10 million and a car to the Russian mob. Joe can’t catch a break in the new season either. Now in Cape Town, Joe once again finds himself over his head. “Outer Banks” kicks off its fifth and final season Thursday on Netflix. The show follows a group of friends from working-class families in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. They call themselves “Pogues,” a nod to the pogy, a small baitfish at the bottom of the food chain with strong survival instincts. We begin the season with the Pogues grieving the death of one of their own. They set out on both a treasure hunt and a quest for revenge. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

SCOTT A. GARFITT / INVISION / AP PHOTO

From left, Isaura Barbe-Brown, Anne Hathaway, director David Lowery, Michaela Coel and Atheena Frizzell pose for photographers upon arrival at a London screening of the film “Mother Mary” on April 23. piece, a waltz, in 1960. He was 22 at the time. “Life Is a Dream” reflects his life and childhood in Wales — possessing what he describes as a “melancholy and sadness” but, ultimately, beauty. Power pop-punk band Weezer will release their landmark 20th album on Friday. It’s self-titled, but no doubt fans will refer to it as “the Gold Al-

bum,” continuing in their tradition of color-identified records. The single “We Might as Well Be Strangers” is a standout, featuring the idiosyncratic vocals of Karly Hartzman, lead singer of the indie rock group Wednesday. Also on Friday: English singer-songwriter Sam Smith will release their fifth album, “Ha-

It has taken longer than expected for “The Sinking City 2” to make it out of development. Then again, it comes from Ukraine’s Frogwares studio, and it isn’t easy to get a game out the door with a war going on. The new survival horror game is based on H.P. Lovecraft’s fiction, so be prepared to fight plenty of scaly, squishy, many-tentacled monsters as you explore a flooded Massachusetts town in the 1920s. Frogwares found a cult audience with 2019’s “The Sinking City” after building a reputation for more cerebral challenges with its Sherlock Holmes games. If you like your horror cosmic, the portal is open on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S and PC.

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HOKE COUNTY THE HOKE COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

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Back to school Hoke County Schools’ Back to School Bash saw huge crowds last Saturday at East Hoke Middle School. Participants got to meet their school principals and staff while enjoying free snow cones, cotton candy, popcorn, funnel cakes and back-to-school supplies. School starts next week in Hoke County.

WHAT’S HAPPENING U.S. school vaccination rates inch down yet again, exemptions reach record high U.S. kindergarten vaccination rates have declined again, with exemptions reaching a record high. Federal data released Monday shows 4.2% of children are exempted from vaccine requirements, up from 3.6% the previous year. It marks the fourth consecutive year of rising exemption rates, mostly due to nonmedical reasons. Experts blame confusion in vaccination recommendations. The CDC reported a slight drop in measles-mumps-rubella shots, and that vaccination rates for polio and other diseases also are falling. The U.S. is experiencing its worst measles year since 1991. Some state health officials are urging parents to vaccinate their children as schools can be hot spots for outbreaks.

ABC sues FCC over challenge to broadcast licenses ABC has filed a lawsuit against the FCC, alleging violation of its First Amendment rights. Tuesday’s lawsuit was a sharp escalation of the network’s battle against what it sees as the administration’s efforts to police its content. FCC Chair Brendan Carr has defended his agency’s actions, saying broadcasters have a duty to “operate in the public interest.” The FCC launched a review of eight ABC local broadcast licenses well before they expire. The order came after a joke by ABC host Jimmy Kimmel infuriated President Donald Trump.

$2.00

Commissioners approve handful of health department items The Hoke County Health Department received a state grant for about $190,000 By Ryan Henkel North State Journal RAEFORD — The Hoke County Board of Commissioners met Aug. 17 for its regular business meeting with a short agenda. The board heard two Health Department matters, first approving a contract with Beasley Media Group for advertisements of the Hoke County Health Department’s Healthy Start program. “The Healthy Start program works with preconception women, prenatal, as well

as postpartum moms, babies up to 18 months and also the fathers,” said Health Director Helene Edwards. “And so for getting education programs and resources out to the community, we wanted to do a variety of media campaigns.” The Health Department has previously utilized Beasley Media Group before, which Edwards described as being “very successful” for the department. Edwards also reported that the Health Department received a state grant in the amount of $189,840 for public health infrastructure development. “This funding will be used to help with improving paying for staffing as well as covering costs for out-of-town travel and training for our pro-

“We appreciate being able to spend other folks’ money.” Board Chair James Leach on receiving a state grant fessional staff to go to to receive credit hours, as well as any equipment and needs that we need at the Health Department,” Edwards said. To go along with that allotment, the board approved an amendment to the Health Department’s budget to appropriate those funds. “We appreciate being able to spend other folks’ money,” said Board Chair James Leach.

To conclude the meeting, County Manager Letitia Edens stated that the county is looking at a completion date around Sept. 4 for the Hoke Justice Center project. “It would be substantially finished around that time, but since it’s been pushed back a couple of times, we still need to get in with our furniture and our AV to finish, and then we would need to do a few other things as well,” Edens said. Along with that, the commissioners are considering a date around the start of October to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new justice center, although nothing has been officially set yet. The Hoke County Board of Commissioners will next meet Sept. 7.

Hoke County joins third pollinator count Master Gardener volunteers will host counting stations Aug. 21 By Elaina J. Martin For North State Journal FOR THE THIRD year in a row, the Hoke County Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Association will host a counting event for the Great Southeast Pollinator Census, and participation has grown each year. Counting stations will be set up around the Hoke Grown Community Garden and the Pollinator Garden on Friday, along with an education table and a kids’ coloring activity table. “Participation in the Pollinator Census is important because it allows scientists to get a good count of the number of pollinators and types of pollinators that are active because without pollinators, we wouldn’t have food,” Master

Gardener Del Martin said. Count sheets are available to pick up until Friday in the lobby of the Robert A. Wright Hoke County Agriculture Building at 645 E. Palmer St. in Raeford. Participants who bring back a completed count sheet by the end of the first week in September will receive a free packet of wildflower seeds. The Great Southeast Pollinator Census is a regional community science initiative started by the University of Georgia Extension that has expanded across the Southeast in partnership with land-grant universities, including N.C. Cooperative Extension. The census aims to engage the public in pollinator conservation, foster habitat creation and generate long-term research data on pollinator visitation and plant phenology. Taking part is free and open See POLLINATORS, page A2

LAUREN ROSE / NORTH STATE JOURNAL

“Without pollinators” — like the swallowtail butterfly above — “we wouldn’t have food,” said Del Martin.

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THURSDAY

8.20.26

Prosecutors: ‘No serious dispute’ that Comey’s seashell post could be Trump threat The post preceded Comey’s novel release about a far-right social media personality

“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

By Eric Tucker The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Justice Department is defending its prosecution of former FBI Director James Comey, saying “there is no serious dispute” that a social media post of seashells he made last year could be understood as a threat against President Donald Trump. Prosecutors also called into question Comey’s account that he had found the seashells in the numerical arrangement of “86 47” while walking on a beach in North Carolina and suggested that his May 2025 post on Instagram was a thinly veiled attempt to sell copies of a forthcoming novel about a social media personality whose words have inspired his fans to attack his foes. The arguments in motions Tuesday represent the government’s most detailed explanation of its indictment and were filed in response to wide-ranging defense efforts to dismiss the case on grounds including that it constitutes a vindictive prosecution and that Comey’s post did not amount to a true threat. Comey’s lawyers contend that investigators in the case misled judges, submitted documents containing false statements, withheld key facts and repeatedly came up empty in their efforts to prove that Comey intended a physical threat or knew that the number 86 could suggest violence. The entry for “86” from Mer-

ANDREW HARNIK / AP PHOTO

Former FBI Director James Comey speaks during a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., in June 2017. riam-Webster, the dictionary used by The Associated Press, says its meaning is “to throw out,” “to get rid of” or “to refuse service to.” Trump, a Republican, is the 47th. The Justice Department maintains the photo of the seashells, which Comey said he found on the beach, constituted a threat against Trump. Comey deleted the post shortly after he put it up, saying he did not know that anyone interpreted the numbers as a call to violence. His lawyers have said that the slogan has long meant to “get rid of” or “eject” and has been featured on thousands of items sold online and regularly displayed at protests. But the Justice Department sought in its filings to place the

“There is no serious dispute that an objective viewer of Comey’s post could read it to mean ‘Kill President Trump.’” U.S. prosecutors post against the backdrop of a spate of assassination plots or attempts against Trump in the months before and after Comey’s post. Prosecutors say that two minutes before the post was made, Comey’s wife texted him a screenshot of a definition of “86” that said “to get rid of or refuse service.” “There is no serious dis-

Georgia man charged with burglarizing NASCAR driver Biffle’s home after plane crash The suspect used social media posts to determine when families were away from home The Associated Press STATESVILLE — A Georgia man burglarized former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle’s home after learning Biffle and his family died in a plane crash, a North Carolina sheriff said Tuesday. Terrell Williams, 44, has been charged with second-degree burglary, safe cracking, money laundering and other felonies,

POLLINATORS from page A1 to all ages. To count at home, find a flowering plant in a backyard, a local park, a community garden or a school garden. Observe the blooms closely for 15 minutes on Friday, Saturday or both days. Use the official printable census data sheet to tally each time an insect lands on the plant. The main categories are carpenter bees, bumblebees, honey-

Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell announced at a news conference. Williams was being held without bond in Cobb County, Georgia, on suspicion of another home burglary. Jail records did not list an attorney. Campbell said investigators were led to Williams in July, when Cobb County police arrested him and found items taken from Biffle’s home. Biffle, his wife and his two children, along with three others, died in the Dec. 18 crash, which remains under investigation by the NTSB. Authorities reported a

break-in at the home on Jan. 8 and have said $30,000 in cash, two Glock handguns, NASCAR memorabilia and gold and silver coins were stolen. Investigators have recovered some of the stolen items, including NASCAR memorabilia, Campbell said. They also found a radio-frequency detector they believe Williams used during the burglary to locate security cameras. He said Williams is also suspected in another North Carolina burglary that occurred when a law enforcement officer was in the hospital.

“He used headlines, social media posts, different things to find out when people were and were not home, and he executed his plan in that capacity,” Campbell said. Campbell said investigators have also identified a person of interest in a separate fraud case following the Biffle family’s death. Investigators have said bank, Venmo and PayPal accounts tied to the Biffles were accessed online using personal information, with phone numbers and email addresses changed to gain control of funds. Money

bees, small bees, wasps, flies, butterflies, moths and other insects. Participants can count as many times as they want throughout Friday and Saturday anywhere in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Alabama and Mississippi. For more information, contact Ashley Grubb at 910-875-3461 or visit go.ncsu. edu/gsepcinnc.

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pute that an objective viewer of Comey’s post could read it to mean ‘Kill President Trump,’” prosecutors wrote. The photo was posted days before Comey was set to release a novel titled “FDR Drive,” in which a prosecutor pursues a far-right social media personality who has called out his foes by name and inspired violence against them by his fans, the Justice Department said. After the Instagram post provoked an outcry, according to the government’s filings, Comey’s publishing agent observed in a text message to him that he had “gone viral.” Comey responded that that was “not my intention, but I’ll be OK if it sells books.” The agent replied, “Music to an agent’s ears.” Prosecutors also asserted that there was “reason to doubt” Comey’s account of having come upon the seashells while on a walk, saying they were located 4 miles from where Comey was staying. Comey’s lawyers have called the indictment, the second in a year against him, part of a Trump retribution campaign targeting one of the president’s vocal critics. Trump fired Comey as head of the FBI in 2017 as Comey was overseeing an investigation into potential ties between the Republican’s 2016 presidential campaign and Russia, and Trump since then has called for him and other perceived adversaries to be jailed. But the Justice Department denied allegations of vindictiveness, saying the decision to indict Comey was made by the U.S. attorney in the area and did not derive from a directive from the president or the attorney general.

“He used headlines, social media posts ... to find out when people were and were not home, and he executed his plan in that capacity.” Darren Campbell, Iredell County sheriff was then allegedly transferred to accounts not belonging to the family and used for purchases, according to a search warrant affidavit. At least one fraudulent check tied to Biffle’s business interests was cashed, and other attempts were made to access accounts. The activity occurred across multiple states.

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

Net zero is dead and gone

This goal was pure virtuesignaling, and it never made any practical sense.

IT WAS ONLY a few years ago when the climate change alarms and green energy fad were all the rage at the White House and corporate boardrooms. Former President Joe Biden’s policies were all tilted to ending fossil fuels, and many of America’s biggest corporations embraced the concept of net-zero fossil fuels. This was the movement during the Biden years to eliminate virtually all oil, natural gas and coal production and replace these energy sources with windmills, solar panels and electric vehicles. This goal was pure virtue-signaling, and it never made any practical sense. Roughly 70% of American energy comes from fossil fuels, and only about 10% comes from “green energy.” Studies showed that the initiative would have decimated the U.S. economy: millions of American jobs lost, hundreds of billions of dollars of lost GDP, and much higher energy costs for American businesses and families. It was an “unaffordability” project at a time when Americans are demanding lower, not higher, costs. It was all pain and no gain. Even if the U.S. had reduced its fossil fuel usage, it would have had only a tiny impact on total global emissions because China and India were opening up far more coal plants than America was shutting down. Washington spent hundreds of billions of dollars on taxpayer subsidies to promote wind and solar, yet it remained as stalled out as the

EV plants that are shutting down across the country. Good news: The net-zero movement is dead — or at least on life support. A new study that I coauthored for Unleash Prosperity found that Wall Street’s once-aggressive embrace of net-zero climate policies has been reversed. Six of the largest U.S. banks — JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley and Wells Fargo — have completely withdrawn from the Net-Zero Banking Alliance. What a reversal this is: The net-zero movement once included a powerful coalition of financial institutions representing 140 member banks and $75.5 trillion in assets. There are a few financial institutions — such as Morgan Stanley and State Street — that still embrace some of these radical regulations, but not many. Much of this never made sense given that AI and data center energy needs will double or triple our electric power demands over the next two decades. That will require an all-of-the-above approach to meet those needs and to keep power affordable for our businesses and families. It also made no sense because America has the cleanest coal and 600 years of reserves — more than any other nation. We also have several hundred years of clean and cheap natural gas, which is critical to keeping the

lights on, American factories humming and air conditioning running. Of course, to meet those energy needs, we also need to be using more nuclear power, which produces little to no greenhouse gas emissions. Good news on that front: For the first time in decades, Americans now support nuclear power as well. The radical environmental groups haven’t given up, and they will surely try another comeback. They’re now blaming forest fires on climate change — even though globally there has been no upward trend in recent decades despite the deadly fires in North America this summer. One country that hasn’t backed off the green energy fad is Germany. What a debacle. Once the manufacturing and engineering hub of Europe, the country has deindustrialized without access to cheap fossil fuels. It’s spent nearly half a trillion dollars on “Energiewende” wind turbines while shutting off much of its natural gas usage. Its power costs are now nearly double what the rest of Europe and the U.S. companies pay. Factories are shutting down. The collapse of the net-zero movement here at home is a victory for economic reality, common sense and American energy abundance. Stephen Moore is co-founder of Unleash Prosperity and a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

COLUMN | MARK MINNELLA

America has a Man problem: when they leave the workforce, we all pay the price The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033.

TOO MANY American men are spending their prime working years outside the workforce, and the cost reaches far beyond lost income. In the mid-1950s, 97.4% of prime-age men, ages 25 to 54, participated in the labor force. In July 2026, that number was 89.2%. Put another way, the share of men in their prime working years outside the labor force has risen from roughly 1 in 38 to more than 1 in 9. I find those numbers troubling because work is more than a paycheck. Work brings structure to a day. It demands discipline and perseverance. It gives a man the opportunity to produce something, solve something, build something and provide for someone other than himself. Work responsibility is one of the ways men develop purpose and become connected to family and community. When large numbers of able-bodied men disconnect from work, the consequences ripple through our society. Too often, detachment from work causes detachment from responsibility, marriage, family formation and community. A Bureau of Labor Statistics study of men ages 30 to 36 found that among those who had not worked in the prior year, 70% had never married and 30.6% lived in a household with a parent. The same study found that 40.9% of nonworkers said health limited their ability to work, recognizing there are legitimate reasons some men cannot work, and compassion demands that we recognize them. That still leaves close to 60% who chose not to work. But compassion should not require us to ignore a larger cultural problem. For too long, our culture has been uncomfortable with many virtues associated with responsible manhood. Strength is too easily confused with aggression. Leadership is treated as

domination. Provision can be dismissed as antiquated. Sacrifice, perseverance and the responsibility to protect and provide are sometimes treated as though they belong to another era. We need to embrace the fact that there is nothing toxic about a man accepting responsibility. For Christians, that responsibility is not merely a cultural tradition. It is rooted in Scripture. Before there was a paycheck, a corporation or even a fallen world, God gave Adam work to do. Genesis 2:15 says God placed him in the garden “to tend and keep it.” Work was part of God’s design before sin entered the world. The Fall made work difficult; it did not make work meaningless. Scripture also makes a distinction our public conversation often misses. Second Thessalonians 3:10 says, “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.” It does not say cannot work. There is a world of difference between the man who cannot work and the man who will not. First Timothy 5:8 likewise makes providing for one’s household a serious responsibility. That is not a license for arrogance or domination. Biblical manhood is about responsibility, sacrifice, service, stewardship and strength under control. I also will not blame society for every man who chooses not to work. Men have a choice. A culture can lower expectations, but it cannot force a man to accept them. Each man is responsible for whether he accepts responsibility or avoids it. We should be able to hold two truths at once. First, our culture needs to do a better job encouraging responsible manhood, and second, men need to stop waiting for the culture’s permission before acting like … well, a responsible man. There is little reason to assume this problem

simply corrects itself. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033. However, another government program won’t change this trend’s direction. We need fathers teaching sons that responsibility is not a burden to escape but a privilege to carry. We need schools, churches, businesses, coaches and communities willing to tell boys that becoming a man means becoming useful to others. Most importantly, men themselves must decide that regardless of what the culture celebrates, they will work, build, provide, protect, serve and lead with character. The culture may change what it expects from men, but God has not. His expectations of responsibility, stewardship, sacrifice and provision live on. America does not merely need more men on payrolls. It needs more men who understand that their lives are supposed to count for something beyond themselves. The answer to men retreating from responsibility is not to continuously lower the bar until uselessness becomes the norm. Instead, we need to raise it. Call men to work. Call them to provide. Call them to build, protect, serve and lead. America does not need responsible manhood redefined downward. It needs responsible men willing to stand up. Mark Minnella was co-founder of the National Association of Christian Financial Consultants and “More Than Money” and is the author of “The Wall Street Awakening.”

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Hidden politics of time: How clocks, calendars, now-contentious time zones came to be How industrialization and politics transformed time from natural cycles into precise systems By Deepti Hajela The Associated Press NEW YORK — It flies. It heals all wounds. It can be of the essence, and it can be money. We thrill in the best of it, lament the worst. We’re warned not to waste it, since we can’t turn it back — even as we try to make up for when it’s lost. And probably more than anything when it comes to time, most of us try to manage it — in our everyday lives and on a global scale, from the biology of our circadian rhythms to what constitutes a work day. Clocks. Calendars. Pendulums. Hourglasses. Sundials. Time zones. For something that’s been a pretty universal impulse to mark the shift of light and dark, the movement of the stars and the rhythms of the tides, the cycles of summer heat and winter cold, one might assume there’s been a universal way of measuring time. That assumption would be wrong. Take the shifting of the clock twice a year in most of the United States, once forward and then back again, a system that “moves” the time to let people enjoy daylight hours later into the evening. While people love the light, a lot of them loathe having to make the change. So much so that the House of Representatives last month overwhelmingly passed legislation calling for the shift to become permanent year-round. Its prospects for passage in the Senate aren’t high, and when the country tried it in the 1970s it was wildly unpopular and short-lived. But it continues to be brought up, an indication that the way we keep the clock counts. The methods different peoples and communities have used to track their lives haven’t existed in a vacuum. They’ve been impacted by culture, by religion, by economics and technology, by the governing principles both within nations and among them. Turns out, like pretty much anything where people are involved, there’s a politics to time. Measurements of time made up but still matter “Every measurement of time is arbitrary,” said Elizabeth Cohen, a political science professor at Boston University who has written about how we chronicle time and how it impacts the way people relate to each other. “Every deadline could have been a fraction of a second or a large increment of time different than it was,” she said. “None of it is natural.” Take calendars. We use them to give a structure to our lives, but the spectrum of what that

MICHAEL PROBST / AP PHOTO

People gather on top of the Feldberg mountain to watch the sunset near Frankfurt, Germany, June 21, 2025. has looked like is vast through human existence. Some followed the sun, others the moon and others still a combination of both. Maybe all the months were the same length, maybe they weren’t. What we call a seven-day week might have had four, six or some other number of days in other timekeeping systems. Even today, when the main calendar in use globally is what we know as the Gregorian calendar, with its 12 months and leap years, other calendars are still consulted for religious or cultural purposes in places from Israel to Thailand. And daylight saving time? With its connection to our perceptions of what hours of light become available to us, it reflects “a desire for natural time,” said Michael O’Malley, a history professor at George Mason University. People “are outside longer, so they feel it as a connection to nature,” he said. “But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.” Culture of clock evolving It’s not just about the how. When we think about how culture evolved around time, there’s also the why. For most of human history, there were ties to the rhythms of the natural world: the phases of the moon, the rising and setting of the sun, the ebb and flow of the tides. And in agricultur-

al societies, the importance of when to plant and when to harvest. Tracking the sun’s journey across the sky was a local endeavor. While the idea of a day broken down into 24 equal segments was important to groups like astronomers or seafarers, daily life was broken into “systems that tended to expand and contract based on the time of year and the location,” said Kevin Birth, an anthropology professor at Queens College. “But since people weren’t really traveling back and forth with any great rapidity back,” he said, “then it really didn’t matter.” Industrialization — in the form of the Industrial Revolution that started in 18th-century England and spread — pushed people to shift notions of time. No longer was it about the sun’s cycle or the turn of the seasons. Industrial production meant schedules — people paying attention to the clock because they were due for specific shifts. “It was one of the goals of industrialization to instill in people this regular, unvarying sense of time,” O’Malley said. Contrast that to a preindustrial farmer, he said. “You could have an ethic of hard work, but that work is not going to be governed by a clock. It’s typically going to be governed by natural cues. The clock establishes this external authority that’s not you.” In the United States by

“But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.” Michael O’Malley, George Mason University history professor the mid-1800s, another issue arose: time zones. There were more than 40 based around cities, which O’Malley said forced railroad companies to switch dynamically as trains traveled. Worried that other entities would standardize the zones and disrupt their businesses, the companies acted. “The American Railway Association got all the American railroads to agree that on Nov. 18, 1883, they would declare a four-zone system in effect in America,” O’Malley said. “And they just announced it.” Time can be cudgel It’s hardly the only occasion where the perception of time has involved national or global concerns. Take the Prime Meridian, the entirely made-up longitude line running from the North Pole to the South Pole, that divides Earth into eastern and western hemispheres and is used as the basis for global timekeeping as well as navigation.

It runs through Greenwich, England, and was selected at an international conference in 1884. Was that because Greenwich was the ideal place? No, Birth said — it simply was established during “a period when the British Empire was one of the dominant empires in the world.” Time zones themselves “are about politics,” he said, pointing out that they are not divided in a standard format. Countries decide their own, and in the U.S., the individual states can decide if they observe Daylight Saving or not. A prime example is China, which stretches more than 3,000 miles across Asia. It has one official time zone for the country, instituted when the Communist Party took power in 1949 as a form of national unity. The entire country runs officially on Beijing time, but the reality on the ground when the sun rises in eastern China hours before it rises in western China is people adjust with their own local times for daily life, Birth said. Time can also be a tool used in a society to manage dissent and protest, Cohen said. She pointed to examples like governments instituting curfews or protesters engaging in slowdowns or strikes. “Time has a lot of power,” she said, “and people are battling over it to try and impose themselves on others or remove the yoke that has been imposed on them.”

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HOKE SPORTS Football opens Friday The Bucks will kick off the season on the road North State Journal staff HIGH SCHOOL football is back. After weeks of practices, scrimmages and jamborees, the Bucks will take the field on Friday night for a road game in Monroe, kicking off at 7 p.m. Hoke County will try to improve on last season’s 2-7 record and snap a string of six straight losing seasons. The Bucks face the same opening opponent as last year. Monroe came to Hoke County and shut out the Bucks 35-0 a year ago, starting a 7-4 campaign for the Redhawks. Monroe returns Brayden Graceffa, who led the team in touchdown passes last year, as well as leading rusher Jamir Jackson, who topped 1,100 yards. Hoke also returns its starting quarterback in Peyton Price, now entering his junior season. The Bucks also return second-leading rusher Darrell Baria and three of their top four receivers in Wayne Claiborne, Amin Davis and Machai Brown. Two of the team’s sack leaders — Davon Bronson and Kam Campbell — also return. Boys’ soccer Hoke’s soccer team is unbeaten through four games, posting a 3-0-1 mark to open

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Earl Wolff

SPORTS BLAST / FACEBOOK

The Bucks soccer team huddles up during a game earlier this season.

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Goals allowed through four games by the Hoke County boys’ soccer team, which started the season with a 3-0-1 record. the season. The Bucks have allowed just two goals, shutting out Triton and Southern Lee by 1-0 scores, blowing out Jack Britt 7-1 and tying Terry Sanford 1-1 in the

season’s only road game so far. Sophomore Urijah Jones leads the team with three goals, while junior Derek Calandrino and senior Amir Simmons have two apiece. Volleyball The volleyball team is also unbeaten through four games and finally lost its first set of the year in the fourth game. Hoke swept Purnell Swett, South View and St. Pauls in straight sets, the latter game on the road, then won at Purnell Swett in the rematch three sets to one.

SIDELINE REPORT BOXING

NCAA BASEBALL

Puerto Rican boxer Colón dies 11 years after sustaining brain damage in ring

Bertman, LSU’s 5-time national title-winning baseball coach, dead at 88

Puerto Rican fighter Prichard Colón died at 33, 11 years after he sustained brain damage in his only loss. Colón suffered a brain bleed in a light-middleweight fight against Terrel Williams in Fairfax, Virginia, in October 2015. Colón underwent surgery to relieve pressure on his brain, and the WBC said he sustained “irreversible neurological damage” because of what the governing body described as “severe, illegal blows to the back of the head.” He never fought again and was later pictured in a wheelchair.

Stanley “Skip” Bertman, who turned LSU’s baseball program into a powerhouse that won five national championships between 1991 and 2000, died at age 88. The College Baseball Hall of Famer’s legacy includes Alex Box Stadium, which opened in 2009 and holds about 11,000 spectators. The field at the stadium is named for Bertman, as is the College Baseball Foundation’s annual award for the nation’s top coach. Bertman retired from coaching in 2001 with a record of 870-330-3 in 18 seasons.

NBA

Judge sides with MSG against Oakley, says former Knick couldn’t prove assault at game New York A judge sided with Madison Square Garden in its lengthy legal battle with Charles Oakley, saying the former New York Knicks All-Star had not proven he was assaulted when he was removed from a game he attended in 2017. Oakley was handcuffed and arrested after an altercation with security while sitting near owner James Dolan. Oakley initially brought a number of claims against MSG that were dismissed in February 2020. Only Oakley’s assault-and-battery claim remained.

UFC

Makhachev sets UFC record for consecutive wins in welterweight title defense Philadelphia Islam Makhachev sets a UFC record with his 17th straight victory, defeating Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision at UFC 330. Makhachev, who hasn’t lost since 2015, won the welterweight crown in 2025 and successfully defended it for the first time. Mackenzie Dern also defended her 115-pound title with a unanimous decision over Gillian Robertson. Edson Barboza retired after a loss to Esteben Ribovics, ending a career that began in 2009. UFC returned to Philadelphia for the first time since 2019.

AP PHOTO

Hoke County High School Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2026 Earl Wolff is a 2008 graduate of Hoke County, where he played running back and safety on the football team. He also ran track for the Bucks and was all-conference in both sports. He went on to play safety at NC State, was drafted in the fifth round of the NFL Draft in 2013 and played for four different teams from 2013 to 2017. Wolff was announced as one of seven members of the Hoke County High School Athletic Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026, joining Jevon Johnson, Patrick Morrisey, David Patterson, Rosalind Patterson, Roger Edwards and Robert Purcell. The group will be inducted into the hall Sept. 18.

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Logano holds off Briscoe to win Cup Series race at Richmond The Team Penske driver is getting hot as the season winds down By Nate Ryan The Associated Press RICHMOND, Va. — Joey Logano delivered a warning to his NASCAR rivals after his victory Saturday at Richmond Raceway. “Don’t let the boys get hot,” the driver of Team Penske’s No. 22 Ford said after fending off a late charge by Chase Briscoe to earn his 39th career win by 0.392 seconds. “We’re pretty strong right now. It’s awesome to see the speed in the 22 again.” After falling as low as 20th in the points standings at the season’s halfway mark, the three-time Cup Series champion is surging toward the NASCAR Chase. Two races remain until the title run featuring the top 16 drivers. With two victories in the past four races (after only one win in his previous 56 starts), Logano has jumped to ninth in the points standings and established himself as a championship contender again. It’s no surprise given that it’s the 2026 season. Since 2014, Logano has either won the Cup title or advanced to the championship round in every even-numbered year, and he typically does it with a late-season spree. In

ROBERT SIMMONS / AP PHOTO

Joey Logano enters Victory Lane after winning the Cook Out 400 on Saturday in Richmond, Virginia. his last title run, the 36-year-old won three of the final 10 races. “We’ve seen it a lot over the years once he gets that confidence,” crew chief Paul Wolfe said. “He’s very good under pressure situations.” Logano scored his third Richmond win but his first in nine years at the track.

“Gosh, it was a great car,” he said. “We’ve had a great car here the last five races, and we haven’t been able to capitalize on the win. We’ve been so close, but it was sweet redemption today.” Logano capitalized on the final strategy call by Wolfe, who pitted his driver just after taking the lead from Briscoe with

39 laps remaining. Logano needed only 15 laps to retake the lead from Christopher Bell, who was trying to stretch his tires to the finish on Richmond’s abrasive surface over the last 57 laps. Briscoe led a race-high 171 of 400 laps. He had a best finish of 11th in nine previous starts at Richmond, one of only three

Team Penske driver Joey Logano crosses the finish line to win Saturday’s Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway.

active tracks where he had yet to score a top 10. After qualifying second, he passed pole-sitter Ryan Blaney on the first lap to lead the first lap of his career on the 0.75-mile oval. “This place has been a real struggle to me,” said Briscoe, who clinched a spot in the Chase with his sixth top 10 in the past seven races. “To get close and not get it done is so frustrating. We had a great points night, but just frustrating to say the least to have one slip away like that at the end.” Austin Cindric finished third and credited his teammate Logano with providing the advice that helped him score his best result since an April 2025 win at Talladega Superspeedway. “This is a racetrack that I feel like Joey Logano could finish top five in my rental car,” said Cindric. “It’s a place where I study him so much.” Denny Hamlin took fourth, followed by Chase Elliott, who notched his first top five since winning at Texas Motor Speedway three months ago. In an emotional ceremony, Richmond Raceway dedicated the grandstand seats where Hamlin’s parents sat for years watching NASCAR races long before their son became a 64-time winner in the Cup Series. Hamlin’s father, Dennis, died in a house fire last December. The track’s tribute was among the highlights of a homecoming weekend for Hamlin, who grew up about 20 minutes from the track. “It’s really the time I get to see my brother and sister that still live up here,” said Hamlin, who lives in the Charlotte area. “I’ve got lots of high school friends that have their own campsite here. It will be amazing if they don’t get arrested.”

ROBERT SIMMONS / AP PHOTO

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

obituaries

Olivia Ann Oshman Feb. 10, 2023 – Aug. 7, 2026 Olivia Ann Oshman, of Raeford, NC, went to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday, August 7, 2026, at the age of 3. She was born in Moore County on February 10, 2023, to Nathaniel and Jordyn Oshman. She was preceded in death by

Joyce Ann Tyler Dec. 12, 1948 – Aug. 7, 2026 Joyce Ann Tyler entered this world on December 12, 1948, the daughter of Jewel Loudermilk and Marvin Shoe. On August 7, 2026, Joyce gained her wings, leaving behind a lifetime of memories, laughter, love, and a family whose lives were forever shaped by her presence. Joyce was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, but perhaps the greatest way to describe her is simply a caregiver. Caring for others was not just something Joyce did, it was who she was. Joyce dedicated her life to her home and family as a homemaker. Over the years, however, the walls of her home held far more than just her immediate family. She opened her heart and her home to many children throughout her life, including foster children and others who needed love, guidance, stability, or simply a place where they could feel cared for. She also helped raise her granddaughter Ashley Fortney during part of her childhood. One of the most special relationships of Joyce’s life was the bond she shared with her granddaughter, Amanda Molina, whom she raised as her own from birth. Their relationship went far beyond grandmother and granddaughter; Joyce was a mother to Amanda in every way that mattered. The love, lessons, memories, and bond they shared will remain a lasting part of Joyce’s legacy. Joyce was the proud mother of two daughters, Dawn Lopez and Melissa Sanchez, and motherin-law to Melissa’s husband, Carlos Sanchez. She was the loving grandmother of five granddaughters: Amanda Molina, wife of Angel Molina; Ashley Fortney, wife of Brian Fortney; Shawana Ramirez; Natasha Truffer; and Veronica Sanchez. Joyce’s family continued to grow, and she was blessed with 12 great-grandchildren: Alana Molina, Analise Garcia, Angel Molina Jr., Cara Fortney, Emmy Fortney, Javier Cintron, Josue Ramirez, Juan Varela, Juelian Sanchez, Juelius Sanchez, Juelz Sanchez, and Juliet Ramirez. Each of her greatgrandchildren held a special place in her heart. Like only a grandmother can, Joyce had special names for some of her babies. Angel Molina Jr. was her “Lil Man,” Alana Molina was her “Lil Mama,” Juelz Sanchez was her “Peanut,” and Juan Varela was her “Niti.” Those special names, spoken in her voice and filled with love, will forever be treasured by her family. Joyce knew how to enjoy the simple things in life. Anyone who knew her knew about her love for a cold Diet Mountain Dew and a Dunkin’ iced coffee. More than anything, though, Joyce found happiness in being surrounded by the people she loved. Time spent talking, laughing, visiting,

her Poppy, Kevin Reynolds. Olivia lived to sing and dance and loved all of her animals. She had a big personality, was a girly girl, and had an obsession with pink, purple, unicorns and princesses. Olivia had a unique and boisterous style and loved all of her shoes, costumes and outfits. She was a very affectionate little girl who always made sure she gave hugs and kisses to all her family. She is survived by her parents, Nathaniel and Jordyn Oshman; her two brothers, James and David Oshman; her grandparents, Nona Oshman Reynolds, Mike and Kim Fairbanks; her Uncle Caleb Oshman, Aunt Kelsey Reynolds, Aunt Kasey Fairbanks, Aunt Mikaela Fairbanks, and Uncle Alex Brown. A visitation will be held at Crumpler Funeral Home from 4:00 pm- 7:00 pm on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.

and making memories with family and friends meant everything to her. Joyce shared a special love with her husband, Alton Tyler, who preceded her in death on July 26, 1985. Though she lost him far too soon, Joyce never remarried. More than four decades after his passing, the love they shared remained an important part of her story. There is comfort in knowing that after all those years apart, Joyce has finally been reunited with the love of her life. She was also preceded in death by her father, Marvin Shoe; her beloved sister, Sharon Dixon; and many dear relatives and friends who went before her. Joyce leaves to cherish her memory her mother, Jewel Loudermilk; her daughters, Dawn Lopez and Melissa Sanchez; the granddaughter she raised as her own, Amanda Molina; her granddaughters, Ashley Fortney, Shawana Ramirez, Natasha Truffer, and Veronica Sanchez; her 12 beloved greatgrandchildren; her sons-inlaw; and a tremendous circle of extended family and friends whose lives she touched throughout her 77 years. And somewhere beyond what we can see, we like to believe there was quite a reunion waiting for her. After gaining her wings, Joyce was reunited with her beloved Alton and all those she loved who went before her, including her friends from the corner bar. After more than four decades apart, there were surely plenty of stories to catch up on. Joyce’s life cannot be measured simply by the years between December 12, 1948, and August 7, 2026. It is measured in the children she cared for, the family she helped raise, the doors she opened, the nicknames only she could make special, the conversations shared over an iced coffee or Diet Mountain Dew, and the countless memories that will now be told again and again. Her chair may be empty, her voice may be missed, and there will be moments when her absence feels impossible to understand. But the love Joyce gave so freely did not leave with her. It lives on in her daughters, her granddaughters, and her great-grandchildren. It lives on in every child she cared for and every friend who was fortunate enough to know her. And it will continue to live on through the generations of the family she loved so deeply. Joyce has gained her wings, reunited with the love of her life, and left behind a family who will love and miss her forever. Rest peacefully, Joyce. Your work here is done, your love remains, and your memory will live on for generations. “I’m Free; Don’t grieve for me, for now I’m free, I’m following the path God laid for me. I took his hand when I heard his call, I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day, to laugh, to love, to work, to play. Tasks left undone must stay that way, I’ve found that peace at the close of the day. If my parting has left a void, then fill it with remembered joy. A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, ah yes, these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My Life’s been full, I savored much, good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch, perhaps my time seemed all too brief, don’t lengthen it now with undue grief. Lift up your heat and share with me, God wanted me now, He set me free.”

Pearl Stephens July 1, 1931 – Aug. 7, 2026 Ms. Pearl Stephens, age 95, went home to rest with her Heavenly Father on August 7, 2026. The Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 16, 2026, at 2:00 PM at Leach Springs Missionary Baptist Church. Mother Pearl will be greatly missed.

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in NSJ at obits@ northstatejournal.com

Hayden Panettiere, who starred in television series ‘Heroes,’ ‘Nashville,’ dead at 36 She was open about her battles with depression, anxiety and addiction The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — Hayden Panettiere, star of popular television series including “Heroes” and “Nashville,” has died. She was 36. Panettiere’s father, Skip, announced the actor’s death in a statement provided to ABC News on Sunday. “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen,” his statement said. No cause of death was announced, and a publicist for Hayden Panettiere did not immediately respond to an email from The Associated Press. Panettiere, who would have turned 37 Friday, began her career as a child actor in commercials and soap operas. Her role as a cheerleader with superpowers in “Heroes” propelled her to fame in 2006, with the series revolving around the mantra “Save the cheerleader, save the world.” “I think ‘Heroes’ is really hot because it’s just a really great combination of everything that people love — they love reality, they love sci-fi and things like X-Men where they get to dream of something bigger,” Panettiere told The Associated Press in 2008. “And at the core of it are these human stories that people can relate to, very rugged. And it’s just grabbed everyone in ev-

“I was the one who put myself in the first treatment center. I was drowning.” Hayden Panettiere ery age group.” She went on to win three Teen Choice Awards for that role and was a Grammy Award nominee for a children’s spoken word album recorded a few years after the release of the animated movie “A Bug’s Life.” Panettiere later played a brash country upstart opposite Connie Britton on “Nashville,” which aired on ABC for four seasons before being canceled and revived on CMT. She did her own singing in the show, which scored some hits on country charts, spawned U.S. tours and earned Panettiere two supporting actress Golden Globe nominations. Panettiere had 11 songs recorded for “Nashville” appear on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs charts during the show’s run, including two featuring Britton. Panettiere’s younger brother, Jansen, who was also an actor, died of a heart condition in 2023, at age 28. She had been open about her struggles with alcohol addiction and depression, including after the birth of her daughter with Ukrainian boxer Wladimir Klitschko in 2014. In an interview with podcaster Jay Shetty after her memoir came out in May, Panettiere talked about the custody arrangement for her 11-year-old daughter, who lives full-time

with Klitschko in Ukraine. News of the 2018 decision prompted headlines about Panettiere giving up custody of her daughter. “I think there’s been this very common misconception that I just gave up my child,” she said. “That could not be farther from the truth.” Panettiere said Klitschko suggested their daughter live with him full-time when the child was 2 as Panettiere struggled with mental health challenges and addiction. She said she was in a “horrible cycle for years of battling depression and anxiety and alcoholism and substance abuse” while “just trying to find my way back, my way out of the darkness.” She entered rehab in 2015, while filming “Nashville.” “I was the one who put myself in the first treatment center. I was drowning,” she said in a 2023 interview with Women’s Health magazine. On Shetty’s podcast, Panettiere recalled the explosion of her fame when she was cast on “Heroes,” including the first time she was tracked by the paparazzi. When she’d imagined the moment as a younger actress, she’d planned to look chic. Instead, she said, “it was just sheer terror.” Panettiere also appeared in two of the “Scream” movies, starred as the title character in the 2009 film “I Love You Beth Cooper” and played the young daughter of a football coach in “Remember the Titans.” She had spoken positively about her experience filming “Remember the Titans,” saying she felt so similar to the character she played — Sheryl Yoast, the opinionated, football-mad daughter of Will Patton’s Coach Bill Yoast.

Hayden Panettiere arrives at the 21st annual Critics’ Choice Awards at the Barker Hangar in January 2016 in Santa Monica, California.

JORDAN STRAUSS / AP PHOTO

B4

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

STATE & NATION

Democrats disagree over abolishing or reforming ICE at DNC meeting Party divisions on the proposal foreshadow immigration battles ahead of 2028 By Mike Catalini The Associated Press AUSTIN, Texas — Democrats on Saturday approved dueling messages on whether U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement should be abolished or reformed, reflecting sharp opposition to President Donald Trump’s crackdown but revealing disagreement in the party ahead of the midterms. The Democratic National Committee, gathered for a summer meeting, also signed off on a raft of policy positions, including one that calls for “concrete reforms” of ICE and another for abolishing the agency that’s been at the center of several fatal encounters. ICE has been at the heart of

a progressive rallying cry since 2018 during the first Trump administration and has been renewed among some in the party after two recent fatal shootings by the agency in July. Saturday’s vote isn’t binding and doesn’t set the party’s platform, which will be determined at the 2028 convention, but it reflects the party’s differing views on a major issue. Candidates and lawmakers will continue to determine their own positions on the issue. Michele Johnson, a DNC member from Louisiana who proposed the measure to abolish ICE, said it’s time for Democrats to take a stand and pointed to the dissolution of ICE’s predecessor agency, the Immigration and Naturalization Service, as a precedent. “I think one of the reasons why people are not trusting the party is because we sound so academic,” she said. “We sound focus group tested, we sound poll

JOEL ANGEL JUAREZ / AP PHOTO

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin speaks during a Labor Council meeting last Thursday, in Austin, Texas. tested because we’re worried about saying the wrong thing or doing the wrong thing and not just like, just stand on business, like take a position.” Not every DNC member was convinced, though. Yvonne Reeves-Chong voted against

the measure, saying it would only gain support from a part of the party’s base, while drawing “fire” from another group of voters. “I would strongly suggest we get to the business of winning races so we can make the policies that make a difference,” she said. DNC Chairman Ken Martin, who’s from Minnesota, where Renee Good and Alex Pretti were fatally shot amid the immigration crackdown earlier this year, said in an interview that the takeaway is that Democrats find the administration’s handling of immigration, including by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, unacceptable. “Clearly, the one thing that unites Democrats, regardless of their position on reform versus abolish or whatever other ways to change what’s happening, is people believe that what ICE is doing right now — and CBP

Trump orders Pentagon to scale back joint exercises with South Korea South Korea declined to aid U.S. efforts against Iran, prompting the military exercise reductions

By Konstantin Toropin and Alanna Durkin Richer The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump ordered the Pentagon on Sunday to scale back annual joint military exercises with South Korea, saying the ally declined to help with the war against Iran and citing his good relationship with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. Trump said in a social media post that the exercises, which began Monday, are not only costly but “send a signal that is totally inappropriate and hostile” to North Korea, which he said “has been unthreatening and respectful” during his time in the White House. “Therefore, and based on the fact that it is too late to cancel, I have instructed Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to substantially reduce the Joint Military Exercises!” Trump wrote. The president added that he recently asked South Korea’s president if they would join the U.S. in the “denuclearization” of Iran, “and they said, ‘No thanks!’” The move is the latest example of the president appearing to turn against an ally in favor of a leader that previous administrations have cast as an adversary. Trump and others in his administration have also railed against NATO allies over per-

ceived lack of support for his war against Iran, even as they seek to confront an increasingly aggressive Russia in the Baltic region. It is also a sharp turnaround from how his administration has viewed South Korea in recent months. In May, Hegseth praised the longtime ally for its “commitment to increase defense spending” and its “leadership in assuming primary responsibility for the security of the Korean Peninsula” during a meeting at the Pentagon. “It demonstrates alliance burden-sharing that all of America’s partners would do well to follow,” the defense secretary added.

JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO

President Donald Trump gestures as he boards Air Force One at Morristown Airport on Sunday in Morristown, New Jersey.

What U.S. military says about joint exercises The 11 days of exercises involving 18,000 South Korean soldiers were designed to beef up readiness against North Korean threats. The U.S. military has said the summertime Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises reinforce “the role of the alliance as the linchpin for regional peace and security” and reaffirm “the ironclad commitment between the United States and the Republic of Korea to defend their homelands.” The exercises are one of the two main combined drills conducted by the South Korean and U.S. militaries annually, along with their springtime training. U.S. and South Korean forces were expected to practice joint operations in complex scenari-

“Hollowing out these joint exercises is shortsighted and a mistake.” Sen. Mark Kelly, former Navy pilot os, including a live-fire exercise to test joint precision targeting and maneuver, a wet gap crossing, and distribution of prepositioned military equipment, according to the U.S. military. South Korea’s Defense Ministry confirmed that the exercises began on Monday as planned. The joint training started days after North Korea resumed ballistic missile testing activities in defiance of U.N. bans. Trump’s decision was sharp-

ly criticized by Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, a former Navy pilot, who said that “hollowing out these joint exercises is shortsighted and a mistake” in a social media post made just hours after the president’s own post. Earlier this month, South Korea, the U.S. and Japan detected the launches of two ballistic missiles from North Korea in what were the North’s first ballistic weapons testing activities since late June. The missiles landed in the waters off North Korea’s east coast. North Korea threatens strong response North Korea has been pushing hard to enlarge its nuclear and missile arsenals since Kim’s high-stakes diplomacy with Trump collapsed in 2019.

“Clearly, the one thing that unites Democrats, regardless of their position on reform versus abolish or whatever other ways to change what’s happening, is people believe that what ICE is doing right now.” Ken Martin, DNC Chairman and the federal government — should stop,” he said. “There has to be a better way.” Immigration remained a stronger issue for Trump than the economy or Iran, according to a poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research released this month, even after three people were killed in encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the span of under a week in July. Overall, the survey found that only 39% of U.S. adults approve of his performance on immigration, down from 49% at the beginning of his second term.

Experts say Kim likely believes a bigger weapons arsenal would increase his chances for wresting more concessions from the U.S. in future negotiations. North Korea on Friday threatened unspecified stern steps against the U.S. and South Korea, describing their military drills as “a rehearsal for an aggressive war” that are triggering greater instability in the region. The warning was typical of the harsh rhetoric that North Korea often deploys ahead of major U.S.-South Korean military exercises. Experts say North Korea has often used its rivals’ drills as a pretext to ramp up testing activities to modernize weapons and promote public support for the reclusive North Korean leader. Trump met with the North Korean leader three times during his first term to discuss the country’s nuclear program, most recently in 2019. Since returning to office, Trump has expressed interest in continuing those discussions. In September 2025, Kim said he held “good personal memories” of Trump and suggested he could return to talks if the U.S. drops “its delusional obsession with denuclearization” of North Korea. Trump’s announcement came a day after he posted a photo of himself standing next to North Korea’s Kim, writing that the two leaders get along great “despite the unfriendly look on this particular picture.” This is not the first time that Trump has sought to end the exercises. During his first term he also issued a surprise announcement that called the war games “provocative.” “We will be stopping the war games, which will save us a tremendous amount of money, unless and until we see the future negotiation is not going along like it should,” Trump told reporters after his 2018 meeting with Kim in Singapore.

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VOLUME 11 ISSUE 26 | THURSDAY, AUGUST 20, 2026 | MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM

SUBSCRIBE: 919-663-3232

MOORE COUNTY THE MOORE COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

JASON JACKSON FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Taking a moment Union Pines linebacker/running back Josiah Sandler takes a knee on the sideline during the Vikings’ scrimmage against Richmond in the Moore County Kickoff Classic. Sandler is one of 15 seniors on the Union Pines roster. We preview the start of high school football on page B1.

WHAT’S HAPPENING U.S. school vaccination rates inch down yet again, exemptions reach record high U.S. kindergarten vaccination rates have declined again, with exemptions reaching a record high. Federal data released Monday shows 4.2% of children are exempted from vaccine requirements, up from 3.6% the previous year. It marks the fourth consecutive year of rising exemption rates, mostly due to nonmedical reasons. Experts blame confusion in vaccination recommendations. The CDC reported a slight drop in measles-mumps-rubella shots, and that vaccination rates for polio and other diseases also are falling. The U.S. is experiencing its worst measles year since 1991. Some state health officials are urging parents to vaccinate their children as schools can be hot spots for outbreaks.

ABC sues FCC over challenge to broadcast licenses ABC has filed a lawsuit against the FCC, alleging violation of its First Amendment rights. Tuesday’s lawsuit was a sharp escalation of the network’s battle against what it sees as the administration’s efforts to police its content. FCC Chair Brendan Carr has defended his agency’s actions, saying broadcasters have a duty to “operate in the public interest.” The FCC launched a review of eight ABC local broadcast licenses well before they expire. The order came after a joke by ABC host Jimmy Kimmel infuriated President Trump.

$2.00

Moore County to implement PFAS testing at landfill The county has been contracted with S&ME since 2020

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal CARTHAGE — The Moore County Landfill will soon begin testing for forever chemicals. The Moore County Board of Commissioners met Aug. 18 for its regular business meeting, and one item that was on the agenda was a contract amendment with S&ME in order to implement a PFAS assessment work plan at the landfill. The additional plan is required to comply with the

“We’re doing our part to make sure we’re taking care of the environment and the citizens of Moore County.” Gene Boles, property management director North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s new regulatory requirements, which require all North Carolina landfills to have PFAS testing. “At the end of the day, across the board, all the other landfills are going to do a very sim-

ilar work plan that is catered to their landfill,” said Property Management Director Gene Boles. The county entered into a contract with S&ME in 2020 for professional engineering, consulting and monitoring services at the Moore County Landfill and the amendment will increase it by around $73,000. “We’re doing our part to make sure we’re taking care of the environment and the citizens of Moore County,” Boles said. Following discussion, the board approved the amendment. The board also authorized the Town of Pinebluff Fire and Rescue to move forward with the purchase of a 2004 Pierce

Enforcer Rescue apparatus. The financial impact to the county is not to exceed $72,500, and the total cost of the truck is nearly half of what a new one would cost, according to Public Safety Director Bryan Phillips. “They have done their due diligence to try and find a truck that will provide the services, and it is estimated to last them 10 more years,” Phillips said. “Ideally, we would have loved to have been able to replace this with a brand new apparatus, but we knew because of lead times and costs of apparatuses now, it would be darn near impossible for us to find a truck for the cost of what this one is,” said Pinebluff Fire Chief Jonathan Richardson. Finally, the board accepted a $50,000 grant from Trillium Health to support the Moore and Hoke Counties Veterans Treatment Court. “These were state funds awarded to Trillium and See PFAS, page A2

Georgia man charged with burglarizing NASCAR driver Biffle’s home after plane crash The suspect used social media to determine when families were away The Associated Press STATESVILLE — A Georgia man burglarized former NASCAR driver Greg Biffle’s home after learning Biffle and his family died in a plane crash, a North Carolina sheriff said Tuesday. Terrell Williams, 44, has been charged with second-degree burglary, safe cracking, money laundering and other felonies, Iredell County Sheriff Darren Campbell announced at a news conference. Williams was being held without bond in Cobb County, Georgia, on suspicion of another home burglary. Jail records did not list

an attorney. Campbell said investigators were led to Williams in July, when Cobb County police arrested him and found items taken from Biffle’s home. Biffle, his wife and his two children, along with three others, died in the Dec. 18 crash, which remains under investigation by the NTSB. Authorities reported a break-in at the home on Jan. 8 and have said $30,000 in cash, two Glock handguns, NASCAR memorabilia and gold and silver coins were stolen. Investigators have recovered some of the stolen items, including NASCAR memorabilia, Campbell said. They also found a radio-frequency detector they believe Williams used during the burglary to locate security

“He used headlines, social media ... to find out when people were and were not home, and he executed his plan.” Darren Campbell, Iredell County sheriff cameras. He said Williams is also suspected in another North Carolina burglary that occurred when a law enforcement officer was in the hospital. “He used headlines, social media posts, different things to find out when people were and were not home, and he executed his plan in that capacity,”

Campbell said. Campbell said investigators have also identified a person of interest in a separate fraud case following the Biffle family’s death. Investigators have said bank, Venmo and PayPal accounts tied to the Biffles were accessed online using personal information, with phone numbers and email addresses changed to gain control of funds. Money was then allegedly transferred to accounts not belonging to the family and used for purchases, according to a search warrant affidavit. At least one fraudulent check tied to Biffle’s business interests was cashed, and other attempts were made to access accounts. The activity occurred across multiple states.

A2 THURSDAY

8.20.26

“Join the conversation” North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Trip Hoffend, Publisher Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers Cory Lavalette, Senior Editor Jordan Golson, Local News Editor Shawn Krest, Sports Editor Dan Reeves, Features Editor Ryan Henkel, Reporter PJ Ward-Brown, Photographer BUSINESS David Guy, Advertising Manager Published each Thursday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 919-663-3232 MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, NC and at additional mailing offices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607

PFAS from page A1 assigned to us,” said Veterans Treatment Court Director Kristin Gosztonyi. According to Gosztonyi, the funds are limited in their use, but they will go toward supporting salary payments, which will then allow the county to free up and utilize those previously budgeted funds for things such as treatments. “Our relationship with Trillium has been tense, I would say, over the years, so thank you to Trillium for sending some money to Moore County,” said Board Chair Nick Picerno. “We’re so glad we have this treatment court. What they’re doing is needed, it works and we’re getting results.” The Moore County Board of Commissioners will next meet Sept. 1.

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Prosecutors: ‘No serious dispute’ that Comey’s seashell post could be Trump threat The post preceded Comey’s novel release about a far-right social media personality

Aug. 21 Lakeside ‘Celly’ & Jam ANDREW HARNIK / AP PHOTO

Former FBI Director James Comey speaks during a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., in June 2017.

“There is no serious dispute that an objective viewer of Comey’s post could read it to mean ‘Kill President Trump.’” U.S. prosecutors to “get rid of” or “eject” and has been featured on thousands of items sold online and regularly displayed at protests. But the Justice Department sought in its filings to place the post against the backdrop of a spate of assassination plots or attempts against Trump in the months before and after Comey’s post. Prosecutors say that two minutes before the post was made, Comey’s wife texted him a screenshot of a definition of “86” that said “to get rid of or refuse service.” “There is no serious dispute that an objective viewer of Comey’s post could read it to mean ‘Kill President Trump,’” prosecutors wrote. The photo was posted days before Comey was set to release a novel titled “FDR Drive,” in which a prosecutor pursues a far-right social media personality who has called out his foes by name and inspired violence against them

by his fans, the Justice Department said. After the Instagram post provoked an outcry, according to the government’s filings, Comey’s publishing agent observed in a text message to him that he had “gone viral.” Comey responded that that was “not my intention, but I’ll be OK if it sells books.” The agent replied, “Music to an agent’s ears.” Prosecutors also asserted that there was “reason to doubt” Comey’s account of having come upon the seashells while on a walk, saying they were located 4 miles from where Comey was staying. Comey’s lawyers have called the indictment, the second in a year against him, part of a Trump retribution campaign targeting one of the president’s vocal critics. Trump fired Comey as head of the FBI in 2017 as Comey was overseeing an investigation into potential ties between the Republican’s 2016 presidential campaign and Russia, and Trump since then has called for him and other perceived adversaries to be jailed. But the Justice Department denied allegations of vindictiveness, saying the decision to indict Comey was made by the U.S. attorney in the area and did not derive from a directive from the president or the attorney general.

charges.

• Dakota Denise Yates, 27, of Eagle Springs, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine.

• Thomas Edward Moore, 55, of Fayetteville, was arrested by MCSO for making a false report to police, driving on a revoked license impaired and expired registration, and other charges.

• Brett Atwood Foster, 22, of Pinehurst, was arrested by MCSO for second-degree trespass.

• Elizabeth Anne Richardson, 32, of Robbins, was arrested by MCSO for simple possession of a controlled substance and breaking or entering.

Aug. 12

• Ashley Nicole Boroughs, 35, of Bear Creek, was arrested by MCSO for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine. • Donald Ray Sheffield, 60, of Seagrove, was arrested by MCSO for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine. • Santana Montega McLeod, 18, of West End, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for assault with a deadly weapon and

6-9 p.m. The Town of Aberdeen’s free end-of-summer celebration includes live music, food and beverage vendors and yard games. Rain date is the same time the next day. Aberdeen Lake Park 301 Lake Park Crossing Aberdeen

Aug. 22 Great Southeast Pollinator Census 9 a.m. to noon N.C. Cooperative Extension hosts a 9 a.m. presentation and a 10 a.m. garden count. Native-plant vendors will be on hand, and census completers receive a free seed packet. Moore County Agricultural Center 707 Pinehurst Ave. Carthage

Airshow with Retrograde 7 p.m. The Nashville jam band plays a fundraiser for Shady Grove Rural Community Arts Center. The Jive Hive 2151 Vass-Carthage Road Carthage

Aug. 23 common law robbery.

Aug. 11

Aug. 20 Middle schools host families from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at Crain’s Creek, Elise, New Century, Southern and West Pine. High schools host from 6-8 p.m. at Moore Innovative, North Moore, Pinecrest and Union Pines.

Aug. 10

• Raheem Mahad Ewing, 43, of West End, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill inflicting serious injury, possession of a firearm by a felon and felony possession of cocaine, and other charges.

Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County:

4:30-6:30 p.m. and 6-8 p.m.

CRIME LOG

• Jammie Erwin Rouse, 53, of Carthage, was arrested by MCSO for breaking or entering.

happening

Back to School Night

By Eric Tucker The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Justice Department is defending its prosecution of former FBI Director James Comey, saying “there is no serious dispute” that a social media post of seashells he made last year could be understood as a threat against President Donald Trump. Prosecutors also called into question Comey’s account that he had found the seashells in the numerical arrangement of “86 47” while walking on a beach in North Carolina and suggested that his May 2025 post on Instagram was a thinly veiled attempt to sell copies of a forthcoming novel about a social media personality whose words have inspired his fans to attack his foes. The arguments in motions Tuesday represent the government’s most detailed explanation of its indictment and were filed in response to wide-ranging defense efforts to dismiss the case on grounds including that it constitutes a vindictive prosecution and that Comey’s post did not amount to a true threat. Comey’s lawyers contend that investigators in the case misled judges, submitted documents containing false statements, withheld key facts and repeatedly came up empty in their efforts to prove that Comey intended a physical threat or knew that the number 86 could suggest violence. The entry for “86” from Merriam-Webster, the dictionary used by The Associated Press, says its meaning is “to throw out,” “to get rid of” or “to refuse service to.” Trump, a Republican, is the 47th. The Justice Department maintains the photo of the seashells, which Comey said he found on the beach, constituted a threat against Trump. Comey deleted the post shortly after he put it up, saying he did not know that anyone interpreted the numbers as a call to violence. His lawyers have said that the slogan has long meant

moore

• Chaucey Yvonne Williams, 39, of Raeford, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for identity theft, misdemeanor larceny and possession of stolen goods, and other charges. • Demetrius Louis Aggelis, 40, of Aberdeen, was arrested by MCSO for first-degree murder, first-degree burglary and failure to inform of new changes to an online identifier. • Jennifer Nicole Gibson, 40, was arrested by MCSO for assault inflicting physical injury on emergency personnel. • Kristina Michelle Gibson, 43, of Rockingham, was arrested by MCSO for identity theft, obtaining property by false pretenses and possession of drug paraphernalia, and other charges. Aug. 13 • Amber Raquel Smith, 32, of Carthage, was arrested by MCSO for possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana paraphernalia and drive left of center, and other

• James Anthony Calloway, 49, of Asheboro, was arrested by Robbins PD for felony larceny, injury to personal property and injury to property to obtain nonferrous metals, and other charges. • Jeremy Dallas Redwine, 38, of Thomasville, was arrested by MCSO for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine. • Kerry Michele Rumple, 42, of Seagrove, was arrested by MCSO for possession of drug paraphernalia. • Mason Tyler Bryant, 34, of Cameron, was arrested by MCSO for possession of drug paraphernalia and simple possession of a controlled substance. Aug. 14 • Gary Lee Barron, 67, of Southern Pines, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for possession of marijuana paraphernalia, simple possession of a controlled substance and simple possession controlled substance. • James Lamonte Cotton, 48, of Bear Creek, was arrested

by MCSO for possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of methamphetamine and possession of a stolen firearm. • Julian Diego Fierro, 19, of West End, was arrested by NCHP for driving while impaired, consumption of alcohol by a person under 21 and drive left of center, and other charges. • Meagan Michelle Bruner, 38, of Pinebluff, was arrested by MCSO for driving while impaired, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of fentanyl, and other charges. Aug. 15 • Julio Pedro-Pascual, 43, of Robbins, was arrested by MCSO for possession of fentanyl and maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances. • Mark Anthony Johnson, 22, of Laurinburg, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for intoxicated and disruptive. • Michael Wayne Tanner, 54, of Vass, was arrested by MCSO for assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. Aug. 16 • John Dawson Harner, 26, of Aberdeen, was arrested by NCHP for driving while impaired, no operator’s license and reckless driving.

Come Sunday Jazz: Brian Felix Organ Trio 2 p.m. Outdoor jazz on the Weymouth lawn. Bring blankets, chairs or a picnic. A cash bar is available; no outside alcohol. Tickets through Weymouth. Weymouth Center 555 E. Connecticut Ave. Southern Pines

Aug. 28 Voter Registration Drive and Voter ID Noon to 1 p.m. A registration drive with free voter photo IDs on-site and information on the November election. Southern Pines Public Library 170 W. Connecticut Ave. Southern Pines

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

THE CONVERSATION Trip Hoffend, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

Net zero is dead and gone

This goal was pure virtuesignaling, and it never made any practical sense.

IT WAS ONLY a few years ago when the climate change alarms and green energy fad were all the rage at the White House and corporate boardrooms. Former President Joe Biden’s policies were all tilted to ending fossil fuels, and many of America’s biggest corporations embraced the concept of net-zero fossil fuels. This was the movement during the Biden years to eliminate virtually all oil, natural gas and coal production and replace these energy sources with windmills, solar panels and electric vehicles. This goal was pure virtue-signaling, and it never made any practical sense. Roughly 70% of American energy comes from fossil fuels, and only about 10% comes from “green energy.” Studies showed that the initiative would have decimated the U.S. economy: millions of American jobs lost, hundreds of billions of dollars of lost GDP, and much higher energy costs for American businesses and families. It was an “unaffordability” project at a time when Americans are demanding lower, not higher, costs. It was all pain and no gain. Even if the U.S. had reduced its fossil fuel usage, it would have had only a tiny impact on total global emissions because China and India were opening up far more coal plants than America was shutting down. Washington spent hundreds of billions of dollars on taxpayer subsidies to promote wind and solar, yet it remained as stalled out as the

EV plants that are shutting down across the country. Good news: The net-zero movement is dead — or at least on life support. A new study that I coauthored for Unleash Prosperity found that Wall Street’s once-aggressive embrace of net-zero climate policies has been reversed. Six of the largest U.S. banks — JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, Citigroup, Morgan Stanley and Wells Fargo — have completely withdrawn from the Net-Zero Banking Alliance. What a reversal this is: The net-zero movement once included a powerful coalition of financial institutions representing 140 member banks and $75.5 trillion in assets. There are a few financial institutions — such as Morgan Stanley and State Street — that still embrace some of these radical regulations, but not many. Much of this never made sense given that AI and data center energy needs will double or triple our electric power demands over the next two decades. That will require an all-of-the-above approach to meet those needs and to keep power affordable for our businesses and families. It also made no sense because America has the cleanest coal and 600 years of reserves — more than any other nation. We also have several hundred years of clean and cheap natural gas, which is critical to keeping the

lights on, American factories humming and air conditioning running. Of course, to meet those energy needs, we also need to be using more nuclear power, which produces little to no greenhouse gas emissions. Good news on that front: For the first time in decades, Americans now support nuclear power as well. The radical environmental groups haven’t given up, and they will surely try another comeback. They’re now blaming forest fires on climate change — even though globally there has been no upward trend in recent decades despite the deadly fires in North America this summer. One country that hasn’t backed off the green energy fad is Germany. What a debacle. Once the manufacturing and engineering hub of Europe, the country has deindustrialized without access to cheap fossil fuels. It’s spent nearly half a trillion dollars on “Energiewende” wind turbines while shutting off much of its natural gas usage. Its power costs are now nearly double what the rest of Europe and the U.S. companies pay. Factories are shutting down. The collapse of the net-zero movement here at home is a victory for economic reality, common sense and American energy abundance. Stephen Moore is co-founder of Unleash Prosperity and a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

COLUMN | MARK MINNELLA

America has a Man problem: when they leave the workforce, we all pay the price The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033.

TOO MANY American men are spending their prime working years outside the workforce, and the cost reaches far beyond lost income. In the mid-1950s, 97.4% of prime-age men, ages 25 to 54, participated in the labor force. In July 2026, that number was 89.2%. Put another way, the share of men in their prime working years outside the labor force has risen from roughly 1 in 38 to more than 1 in 9. I find those numbers troubling because work is more than a paycheck. Work brings structure to a day. It demands discipline and perseverance. It gives a man the opportunity to produce something, solve something, build something and provide for someone other than himself. Work responsibility is one of the ways men develop purpose and become connected to family and community. When large numbers of able-bodied men disconnect from work, the consequences ripple through our society. Too often, detachment from work causes detachment from responsibility, marriage, family formation and community. A Bureau of Labor Statistics study of men ages 30 to 36 found that among those who had not worked in the prior year, 70% had never married and 30.6% lived in a household with a parent. The same study found that 40.9% of nonworkers said health limited their ability to work, recognizing there are legitimate reasons some men cannot work, and compassion demands that we recognize them. That still leaves close to 60% who chose not to work. But compassion should not require us to ignore a larger cultural problem. For too long, our culture has been uncomfortable with many virtues associated with responsible manhood. Strength is too easily confused with aggression. Leadership is treated as

domination. Provision can be dismissed as antiquated. Sacrifice, perseverance and the responsibility to protect and provide are sometimes treated as though they belong to another era. We need to embrace the fact that there is nothing toxic about a man accepting responsibility. For Christians, that responsibility is not merely a cultural tradition. It is rooted in Scripture. Before there was a paycheck, a corporation or even a fallen world, God gave Adam work to do. Genesis 2:15 says God placed him in the garden “to tend and keep it.” Work was part of God’s design before sin entered the world. The Fall made work difficult; it did not make work meaningless. Scripture also makes a distinction our public conversation often misses. Second Thessalonians 3:10 says, “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat.” It does not say cannot work. There is a world of difference between the man who cannot work and the man who will not. First Timothy 5:8 likewise makes providing for one’s household a serious responsibility. That is not a license for arrogance or domination. Biblical manhood is about responsibility, sacrifice, service, stewardship and strength under control. I also will not blame society for every man who chooses not to work. Men have a choice. A culture can lower expectations, but it cannot force a man to accept them. Each man is responsible for whether he accepts responsibility or avoids it. We should be able to hold two truths at once. First, our culture needs to do a better job encouraging responsible manhood, and second, men need to stop waiting for the culture’s permission before acting like … well, a responsible man. There is little reason to assume this problem

simply corrects itself. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects prime-age male labor-force participation to fall from 89.1% in 2023 to 87.4% by 2033. However, another government program won’t change this trend’s direction. We need fathers teaching sons that responsibility is not a burden to escape but a privilege to carry. We need schools, churches, businesses, coaches and communities willing to tell boys that becoming a man means becoming useful to others. Most importantly, men themselves must decide that regardless of what the culture celebrates, they will work, build, provide, protect, serve and lead with character. The culture may change what it expects from men, but God has not. His expectations of responsibility, stewardship, sacrifice and provision live on. America does not merely need more men on payrolls. It needs more men who understand that their lives are supposed to count for something beyond themselves. The answer to men retreating from responsibility is not to continuously lower the bar until uselessness becomes the norm. Instead, we need to raise it. Call men to work. Call them to provide. Call them to build, protect, serve and lead. America does not need responsible manhood redefined downward. It needs responsible men willing to stand up. Mark Minnella was co-founder of the National Association of Christian Financial Consultants and “More Than Money” and is the author of “The Wall Street Awakening.”

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

Hidden politics of time: How clocks, calendars, now-contentious time zones came to be How industrialization and politics transformed time from natural cycles into precise systems By Deepti Hajela The Associated Press NEW YORK — It flies. It heals all wounds. It can be of the essence, and it can be money. We thrill in the best of it, lament the worst. We’re warned not to waste it, since we can’t turn it back — even as we try to make up for when it’s lost. And probably more than anything when it comes to time, most of us try to manage it — in our everyday lives and on a global scale, from the biology of our circadian rhythms to what constitutes a work day. Clocks. Calendars. Pendulums. Hourglasses. Sundials. Time zones. For something that’s been a pretty universal impulse to mark the shift of light and dark, the movement of the stars and the rhythms of the tides, the cycles of summer heat and winter cold, one might assume there’s been a universal way of measuring time. That assumption would be wrong. Take the shifting of the clock twice a year in most of the United States, once forward and then back again, a system that “moves” the time to let people enjoy daylight hours later into the evening. While people love the light, a lot of them loathe having to make the change. So much so that the House of Representatives last month overwhelmingly passed legislation calling for the shift to become permanent year-round. Its prospects for passage in the Senate aren’t high, and when the country tried it in the 1970s it was wildly unpopular and short-lived. But it continues to be brought up, an indication that the way we keep the clock counts. The methods different peoples and communities have used to track their lives haven’t existed in a vacuum. They’ve been impacted by culture, by religion, by economics and technology, by the governing principles both within nations and among them. Turns out, like pretty much anything where people are involved, there’s a politics to time. Measurements of time made up but still matter “Every measurement of time is arbitrary,” said Elizabeth Cohen, a political science professor at Boston University who has written about how we chronicle time and how it impacts the way people relate to each other. “Every deadline could have been a fraction of a second or a large increment of time differ-

MICHAEL PROBST / AP PHOTO

People gather on top of the Feldberg mountain to watch the sunset near Frankfurt, Germany, June 21, 2025. ent than it was,” she said. “None of it is natural.” Take calendars. We use them to give a structure to our lives, but the spectrum of what that has looked like is vast through human existence. Some followed the sun, others the moon and others still a combination of both. Maybe all the months were the same length, maybe they weren’t. What we call a seven-day week might have had four, six or some other number of days in other timekeeping systems. Even today, when the main calendar in use globally is what we know as the Gregorian calendar, with its 12 months and leap years, other calendars are still consulted for religious or cultural purposes in places from Israel to Thailand. And daylight saving time? With its connection to our perceptions of what hours of light become available to us, it reflects “a desire for natural time,” said Michael O’Malley, a history professor at George Mason University. People “are outside longer, so they feel it as a connection to nature,” he said. “But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.” Culture of clock evolving It’s not just about the how. When we think about how culture evolved around time, there’s also the why. For most of human history, there were ties to the rhythms of the natural world: the phases

“But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.” Michael O’Malley, George Mason University history professor of the moon, the rising and setting of the sun, the ebb and flow of the tides. And in agricultural societies, the importance of when to plant and when to harvest. Tracking the sun’s journey across the sky was a local endeavor. While the idea of a day broken down into 24 equal segments was important to groups like astronomers or seafarers, daily life was broken into “systems that tended to expand and contract based on the time of year and the location,” said Kevin Birth, an anthropology professor at Queens College. “But since people weren’t really traveling back and forth with any great rapidity back,” he said, “then it really didn’t matter.” Industrialization — in the form of the Industrial Revolution that started in 18th-century England and spread — pushed people to shift notions of time. No longer was it about the sun’s cycle or the turn of the seasons. Industrial production meant schedules — people pay-

ing attention to the clock because they were due for specific shifts. “It was one of the goals of industrialization to instill in people this regular, unvarying sense of time,” O’Malley said. Contrast that to a preindustrial farmer, he said. “You could have an ethic of hard work, but that work is not going to be governed by a clock. It’s typically going to be governed by natural cues. The clock establishes this external authority that’s not you.” In the United States by the mid-1800s, another issue arose: time zones. There were more than 40 based around cities, which O’Malley said forced railroad companies to switch dynamically as trains traveled. Worried that other entities would standardize the zones and disrupt their businesses, the companies acted. “The American Railway Association got all the American railroads to agree that on Nov. 18, 1883, they would declare a four-zone system in effect in America,” O’Malley said. “And they just announced it.” Time can be cudgel It’s hardly the only occasion where the perception of time has involved national or global concerns. Take the Prime Meridian, the entirely made-up longitude line running from the North Pole to the South Pole, that divides Earth into eastern and western hemispheres and is used as the basis for global timekeeping as

well as navigation. It runs through Greenwich, England, and was selected at an international conference in 1884. Was that because Greenwich was the ideal place? No, Birth said — it simply was established during “a period when the British Empire was one of the dominant empires in the world.” Time zones themselves “are about politics,” he said, pointing out that they are not divided in a standard format. Countries decide their own, and in the U.S., the individual states can decide if they observe Daylight Saving or not. A prime example is China, which stretches more than 3,000 miles across Asia. It has one official time zone for the country, instituted when the Communist Party took power in 1949 as a form of national unity. The entire country runs officially on Beijing time, but the reality on the ground when the sun rises in eastern China hours before it rises in western China is people adjust with their own local times for daily life, Birth said. Time can also be a tool used in a society to manage dissent and protest, Cohen said. She pointed to examples like governments instituting curfews or protesters engaging in slowdowns or strikes. “Time has a lot of power,” she said, “and people are battling over it to try and impose themselves on others or remove the yoke that has been imposed on them.”

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MOORE SPORTS Football opens Friday Two of the three county teams host their opener North State Journal staff HIGH SCHOOL football is back. After weeks of practices, scrimmages and jamborees, all three local schools return to the field Friday night, with two of them playing at home to open the 2026 season. North Moore will look to bounce back from a 3-8 season in 2025. The Mustangs will be breaking in a new quarterback, with junior Beau Lambert getting the first look at the job. North Moore returns leading rusher Stryker Murray. The Mustangs open at home against Fike at 7 p.m. Friday. The Demons went 4-7 last season and beat North Moore 47-20 in the opener a year ago. Pinecrest takes the field coming off of an 8-3 record, the Patriots’ 13th straight winning season. The Patriots return Najee Gillis at quarterback but must replace leading rusher Chris Najm. Pinecrest opens at Cleveland at 7:30 p.m. Friday. The Rams were 10-2 last season and pounded Pinecrest 60-19 in the opener. They also return their leading rusher as well as last season’s starting quarterback. Union Pines had a season for the ages, going 11-2 last season. The Vikings lose quarterback Ian Hicks and top receiver Hayne Tobias from that squad. However, 1,000-yard rusher

James Miller

DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL JASON JACKSON FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Vida Blue throws a pass for Union Pines during last week’s Moore County Kickoff Classic. Adrian Colon is back, as is playmaking receiver and return man John Erguiza. Junior Vida Blue will get the chance to start at quarterback.

The Vikings open at home against Westover at 7:30 p.m. Friday. The Wolverines went 3-8 last season and dropped the 2025 opener to Union Pines 28-6.

Logano holds off Briscoe to win Cup Series race at Richmond The Team Penske driver is getting hot as the season winds down By Nate Ryan The Associated Press RICHMOND, Va. — Joey Logano delivered a warning to his NASCAR rivals after his victory Saturday at Richmond Raceway. “Don’t let the boys get hot,” the driver of Team Penske’s No. 22 Ford said after fending off a late charge by Chase Briscoe to earn his 39th career win by 0.392 seconds. “We’re pretty strong right now. It’s awesome to see the speed in the 22 again.” After falling as low as 20th in the points standings at the season’s halfway mark, the three-time Cup Series champion is surging toward the NASCAR Chase. Two races remain until the title run featuring the top 16 drivers. With two victories in the past four races (after only one win in

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

ROBERT SIMMONS / AP PHOTO

Joey Logano enters Victory Lane after winning the Cook Out 400 on Saturday in Richmond, Virginia. his previous 56 starts), Logano has jumped to ninth in the points standings and established himself as a championship contender again. It’s no surprise given that it’s the 2026 season. Since 2014, Logano has either won the Cup title

or advanced to the championship round in every even-numbered year, and he typically does it with a late-season spree. In his last title run, the 36-year-old won three of the final 10 races. “We’ve seen it a lot over the years once he gets that confi-

Pinecrest, boys’ soccer James Miller is a junior on the Pinecrest boys’ soccer team. The Patriots are 1-1 on the season with a 9-0 win over Western Harnett to even their record. Miller had the hat trick in the win, netting three goals for the Patriots. Teammate Christian Baker, a sophomore, added a pair of goals, tying Miller for team high on the season after also getting one in the 3-1 loss to Laney in the opener.

dence,” crew chief Paul Wolfe said. “He’s very good under pressure situations.” Logano scored his third Richmond win but his first in nine years at the track. “Gosh, it was a great car,” he said. “We’ve had a great car here the last five races, and we haven’t been able to capitalize on the win. We’ve been so close, but it was sweet redemption today.” Logano capitalized on the final strategy call by Wolfe, who pitted his driver just after taking the lead from Briscoe with 39 laps remaining. Logano needed only 15 laps to retake the lead from Christopher Bell, who was trying to stretch his tires to the finish on Richmond’s abrasive surface over the last 57 laps. Briscoe led a race-high 171 of 400 laps. He had a best finish of 11th in nine previous starts at Richmond, one of only three active tracks where he had yet to score a top 10. After qualifying second, he passed pole-sitter Ryan Blaney on the first lap to lead the first lap of his career on the 0.75-mile oval. “This place has been a real struggle to me,” said Briscoe, who clinched a spot in the Chase with his sixth top 10 in the past seven races. “To get close and not get it done is so frustrating. We had a great points night, but just frustrating to say the least to have

one slip away like that at the end.” Austin Cindric finished third and credited his teammate Logano with providing the advice that helped him score his best result since an April 2025 win at Talladega Superspeedway. “This is a racetrack that I feel like Joey Logano could finish top five in my rental car,” said Cindric. “It’s a place where I study him so much.” Denny Hamlin took fourth, followed by Chase Elliott, who notched his first top five since winning at Texas Motor Speedway three months ago. In an emotional ceremony, Richmond Raceway dedicated the grandstand seats where Hamlin’s parents sat for years watching NASCAR races long before their son became a 64-time winner in the Cup Series. Hamlin’s father, Dennis, died in a house fire last December. The track’s tribute was among the highlights of a homecoming weekend for Hamlin, who grew up about 20 minutes from the track. “It’s really the time I get to see my brother and sister that still live up here,” said Hamlin, who lives in the Charlotte area. “I’ve got lots of high school friends that have their own campsite here. It will be amazing if they don’t get arrested.”

ROBERT SIMMONS / AP PHOTO

Team Penske driver Joey Logano crosses the finish line to win Saturday’s Cook Out 400 at Richmond Raceway.

B2 SIDELINE REPORT MLB

Báez becomes first player to homer in first 3 at-bats in majors Chicago Joshua Báez became the first player to hit three home runs in his first three at-bats in the major leagues, leading the St. Louis Cardinals to an 8-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs. The 23-year-old left fielder, called up from Triple-A Memphis earlier in the day, hit the first pitch he saw into the Wrigley Field bleachers and then homered in his next two at-bats. He also drove in five runs.

BOXING

Puerto Rican boxer Colón dies 11 years after sustaining brain damage in ring Puerto Rican fighter Prichard Colón died at 33, 11 years after he sustained brain damage in his only loss. Colón suffered a brain bleed in a light-middleweight fight against Terrel Williams in Fairfax, Virginia, in October 2015. Colón underwent surgery to relieve pressure on his brain, and the WBC said he sustained “irreversible neurological damage” because of what the governing body described as “severe, illegal blows to the back of the head.” He never fought again and was later pictured in a wheelchair.

NBA

Judge sides with MSG against Oakley, says former Knick couldn’t prove assault at game New York A judge sided with Madison Square Garden in its lengthy legal battle with Charles Oakley, saying the former New York Knicks All-Star had not proven he was assaulted when he was removed from a game he attended in 2017. Oakley was handcuffed and arrested after an altercation with security while sitting near owner James Dolan. Oakley initially brought a number of claims against MSG that were dismissed in February 2020. Only Oakley’s assault-and-battery claim remained.

NCAA BASEBALL

Bertman, LSU’s 5-time national title-winning baseball coach, dead at 88 Stanley “Skip” Bertman, who turned LSU’s baseball program into a powerhouse that won five national championships between 1991 and 2000, died at age 88. The College Baseball Hall of Famer’s legacy includes Alex Box Stadium, which opened in 2009 and holds about 11,000 spectators. The field at the stadium is named for Bertman, as is the College Baseball Foundation’s annual award for the nation’s top coach. Bertman retired from coaching in 2001 with a record of 870-330-3 in 18 seasons.

UFC

Makhachev sets UFC record for consecutive wins in welterweight title defense Philadelphia Islam Makhachev sets a UFC record with his 17th straight victory, defeating Ian Machado Garry by unanimous decision at UFC 330. Makhachev, who hasn’t lost since 2015, won the welterweight crown in 2025 and successfully defended it for the first time. Mackenzie Dern also defended her 115-pound title with a unanimous decision over Gillian Robertson. Edson Barboza retired after a loss to Esteben Ribovics, ending a career that began in 2009. UFC returned to Philadelphia for the first time since 2019.

North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

6 college coaches under most pressure entering 2026 season UNC’s Bill Belichick is one of three ACC coaches on the list

$270M

By Maura Carey The Associated Press PATIENCE FOR poor performance is a rarity in college football, and that’s only become more clear in recent years. Eight power four coaches were jobless by November in 2025, and 15 Bowl Subdivision coaches were fired throughout the season, totaling a record $270 million in buyout packages. As the 2026 season arrives, here are six coaches entering the fall under the most pressure for instant results. Mike Norvell Florida State

Florida State peaked too early last season with a 31-17 Week 1 upset of Alabama and two blowouts against East Texas A&M and Kent State, cruising to a 3-0 start. And then things got shaky for the Seminoles, winning just two of their final nine games. Coach Mike Norvell is just above .500 in his six years at FSU (38-34). Thirteen of those wins came during the Noles’ playoff run in 2023. Since then, FSU has landed in the win column just seven times and finished bottom five in the ACC in back-to-back years — leaving Norvell in the win now bucket. Bill Belichick

UNC

Bill Belichick arrived at UNC as a first-time college

Total amount of buyouts for the 15 FBS coaches fired last year

CHRIS SEWARD / AP PHOTO

UNC head coach Bill Belichick coaches from the sidelines against Duke. coach who had won six Super Bowls with the New England Patriots, but the hyped hiring fell flat in Year 1. The Tar Heels had 70 new players while ending up with more double-digit losses (five) than total wins (four) and missing a bowl for the first time since 2018, and there were multiple helpings of unwanted off-field headlines too. Belichick enters this year with 60 new players in another roster overhaul. The Tar Heels are picked to finish 15th in the 17-team Atlantic Coast Conference and have a tougher schedule in Year 2, including home games against Notre Dame and preseason ACC favorite Miami. Another off-field issue hit before camp: General manager Michael Lombardi is on

leave as the subject of a school investigation. Belichick originally signed a five-year, $50 million contract paying him $10 million in base and supplemental pay each year, though only the first three years were guaranteed. That means the school would owe the 74-year-old Belichick roughly one year’s pay if it decided to move on after the season. Shane Beamer

South Carolina

Shane Beamer’s fifth year at South Carolina didn’t quite go to plan, with the Gamecocks finishing 4-8 and 15th (1-7) in the SEC. South Carolina’s stint in the AP Top 25 was short-lived, entering the season at No. 13 in the preseason poll and falling out of the rankings entirely after a Week 3 loss to Vanderbilt. The Gamecocks lost six of their final eight games. Luke Fickell

Wisconsin

It’s no secret Wisconsin’s Luke Fickell is back on the hot seat — he acknowledged it himself at Big Ten media days. A 4-8 record in 2025 was Wisconsin’s second straight losing season for the first time since

the early 1990s. The Badgers reached lows they hadn’t seen since the ’70s last season with shutout losses against Iowa and Ohio State in back-to-back weeks. Fickell hasn’t been able to replicate the level of success he had in Cincinnati yet, posting a 17-21 record. Bill O’Brien

Boston College

After leading Boston College to a 7-6 record and Pinstripe Bowl appearance his first season, the Eagles regressed in 2025, finishing with a 2-10 record and ahead of only Syracuse in the ACC. Boston College’s two wins came in the first and last weeks of the season against Fordham and Syracuse, sandwiching 10 straight losses. The sharp decline after an encouraging first season has left little margin for error heading into Year 3. Mike Locksley Maryland

Maryland’s Mike Locksley remains squarely on the hot seat after nearly identical seasons in 2024 and 2025, finishing 4-8 overall and 1-8 in Big Ten play. In eight seasons, Locksley is 37-49 for the Terps, and the best years in the stretch were back-to-back 8-5 seasons in 2022 and again in 2023, when Maryland won its third bowl game in as many years. Locksley said the tough days are behind the program, looking forward to ramping up this season with what he described as one of the most talented rosters during his time at Maryland.

Top transfers in college football include plenty of guys who followed coaches A look at the top players in new locations in 2026 By Steve Megargee The Associated Press SOME OF THIS season’s top college football transfers simply followed their coaches from one school to another. For instance, former North Texas coach Eric Morris took over Oklahoma State and now has 21 of his former Mean Green players. That list includes Drew Mestemaker, who threw for a Bowl Subdivision-leading 4,379 yards a year ago. “I knew the whole time, Coach Morris was going to be a huge factor,” Mestemaker told reporters regarding the choice of his new school. “Wherever he went, that was probably going to be where I was going.” Mestemaker’s process wasn’t unusual. John Henry Daley, who recorded 11½ sacks at Utah last season, accompanied coach Kyle Whittingham to Michigan. New Penn State coach Matt Campbell’s roster features about two dozen of his former Iowa State players, including quarterback Rocco Becht. “At the end of the day, I think my main decision was just to come in to play for Matt Campbell my final year, just because I had built relationships with a bunch of the guys here already,” Becht said. “I didn’t want to ruin any of those. A great coaching staff was brought here, and I wanted to be a part of that at a great university.” Becht arrives at Penn State after throwing for 9,274 yards and 64 touchdowns with 27 interceptions at Iowa State as a three-year starter. It’s no surprise that so many transfers are making this type of choice. They only need to look at Indiana’s remarkable turnaround for evidence this can work. Curt Cignetti brought 13

of his former James Madison players with him after taking over at Indiana. They helped set the tone for Indiana’s extraordinary turnaround that included earning a College Football Playoff berth in 2024 and winning a national title last season. These transfers believe familiarity with their longtime coaches will help them in their new situations. “You know what you get with Coach Whittingham,” Daley said. “You know that you get discipline. You know that you get hard work. We expect to win games. That’s something that I love. He’s got a very old-school mindset in that. We’re going to come in, we’re going to attack every single day, and we’re going to be tough. It’s not always going to be easy, but it’s going to be worth it. That’s something I love that you don’t find everywhere. And that’s something I wanted to be a part of.” Here’s a rundown of some other transfers who should make a major impact this season (former schools listed below). Texas WR Cam Coleman Auburn

Coleman was the nation’s No. 3 overall prospect in his high school class. He caught 93 passes for 1,306 yards and 13 touchdowns in two seasons at Auburn. Coleman gained attention on social media, making a phenomenal catch in practice. Indiana QB Josh Hoover

TCU

Hoover takes over for Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza, who led Indiana to a national title before becoming the first overall pick in the draft. Hoover, a three-year starter at TCU, has thrown for 9,629 yards and 71 touchdowns with 33 interceptions. Hoover will be throwing to former

MARTA LAVANDIER / AP PHOTO

Miami quarterback Darian Mensah speaks following a team practice session. Michigan State receiver Nick Marsh and will be handing the ball off to ex-Boston College running back Turbo Richard. LSU QB Sam Leavitt Arizona State

Leavitt helped Arizona State earn a playoff berth in 2024 before a foot injury limited him to seven games last season. Leavitt, who began his career at Michigan State, has completed 61.4% of his career passes for 4,652 yards with 36 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He also has rushed for 816 yards and 10 touchdowns. Leavitt will be working behind a line that includes Jordan Seaton, a former five-star recruit who started 22 games at left tackle for Colorado the last two seasons. Miami QB Darian Mensah

in 2024. Mensah has been productive at each of his stops and has completed 66.5% of his career passes. He threw for 3,973 yards with 34 touchdowns and just six interceptions at Duke after accumulating 2,723 yards passing with 22 touchdowns and six interceptions at Tulane. Oregon S Koi Perich Minnesota

Perich was first-team all-Big Ten in 2024 and second-team last season. He had 82 tackles for Minnesota a year ago and also contributed on offense and special teams. In 2024, Perich became the first Bowl Subdivision freshman since 1976 to intercept five passes while also collecting over 100 punt return yards and 100 kick return yards. BYU LB Cade Uluave

Duke

Cal

After leading Duke to an Atlantic Coast Conference title, Mensah entered the portal and joined a conference rival that played for the national championship last season. This is Mensah’s third school in as many years, as he played for Tulane

Uluave comes to BYU after compiling 100 tackles — 12 for loss — at Cal last season. He was first-team all-ACC. Uluave totaled 237 tackles — 21½ for loss — to go along with six sacks and three interceptions in three seasons at Cal.

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

obituaries

Larry William Rice June 30, 1941 – Aug. 13, 2026 Larry William Rice, age 85, of Vass, went to his heavenly home on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at The Greens at Pinehurst, surrounded by his family. A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, August 21, 2026, at 12:00 pm at Cypress Springs Presbyterian Church with Rev. Corrina Gambrell officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church from 11 until 12. Burial will follow in the church cemetery with Military Honors. Larry was born in Aurora, Indiana on June 30, 1941 to the late William Leonard Rice and Hazel Johnston Rice. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Sue Cameron Rice; sister, Carol; and brother, Tim. He proudly served his country in the U.S. Army. Upon returning from the service, he attended Pembroke College. He worked in the insurance industry and also taught some at Union Pines High School. He enjoyed fishing but most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family. He was a loving father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend and will be greatly missed. He is survived by his sons, Mark Rice (Donna) of Kernersville, Billy Rice of Vass; grandchildren, Kayleigh, Landen, Peyton, Allison, Holly, Jacob, Elijah; great-grandchildren, Axle, Parker, Annie Lou, Merry Jane, Jet, Willa Jean, Walton, Amelia Sue, Everly, Ellie, River; brothers, Ricky of Virginia, Billy of Indiana, Raymond of Virginia. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cypress Springs Presbyterian Church in memory of Larry Rice.

Thomas Lawrence McLelland April 9, 1943 – Aug. 10, 2026 Thomas Lawrence McLelland (also known affectionately as McClelland), 83, of Carthage, North Carolina, entered into eternal rest on Monday, August 10, 2026, at FirstHealth Hospice and Palliative Care in West End, NC. Please have ALL floral/ plants arrangement delivered to the funeral home by 12pm on Saturday, August 15, 2026. *NO deliveries on Sunday, August 16, 2026*. OR you can deliver to the funeral home on Monday, August 17, 2026, between 9 am and 10 am. Please keep the family and friends of Mr. Thomas Lawrence McLelland in your thoughts and prayers. Arrangements are entrusted to McLeod Funeral Home of Southern Pines, North Carolina.

Catherine Kelley Sept. 3, 1947 – Aug. 10, 2026 Catherine Bryant Smith Kelley, age 78, of West End, passed away on Monday, August 10, 2026, at her home. Catherine was born in Laconia, New Hampshire on September 3, 1947 to the late Harold Bryant Smith and Ellenore Eddy Smith. In addition to her parents, she was also preceded in death by her sister Pam and brother George. She is survived by her son, Eric Pont of New Hampshire; daughters, Amy Roberts (Tim) of Pinehurst, NC, and Allison Reed (Andrew) of Massachusetts; sisters, Jennifer and Alice; brothers, Thad and Philip; grandchildren, Zachary, Kira, and Greta; and great-grandchildren, Ayden and Asher.

Johnnie Lewis Graham Nov. 30, 1948 – Aug. 14, 2026 Mr. Johnnie Lewis Graham, 77, of Sanford, North Carolina, entered into eternal rest on Friday, August 14, 2026, surrounded by family. The Family Will Receive Visitors at 2177 Pilson Road, Sanford, NC from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM starting Monday, August 17th - Thursday, August 20th (No visitors on Friday, August 21st) Please keep the family and friends of Mr. Johnnie Lewis Graham in your thoughts and prayers. Arrangements are entrusted to McLeod Funeral Home of Sanford, North Carolina.

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in North State Journal at obits@ northstatejournal.com

Hayden Panettiere, actress who starred in television series ‘Nashville’ and ‘Heroes,’ dead at 36 She was open about her battles with depression, anxiety and addiction The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — Hayden Panettiere, star of popular television series including “Heroes” and “Nashville,” has died. She was 36. Panettiere’s father, Skip, announced the actor’s death in a statement provided to ABC News on Sunday. “It is with profound sadness that we share the tragic passing of our beloved Hayden. She was an incredible light and a force of nature who brought immeasurable love and joy to all who knew her — and to the millions who watched her onscreen,” his statement said. No cause of death was announced, and a publicist for Hayden Panettiere did not immediately respond to an email from The Associated Press. Panettiere, who would have turned 37 Friday, began her career as a child actor in commercials and soap operas. Her role as a cheerleader with superpowers in “Heroes” propelled her to fame in 2006, with the series revolving around the mantra “Save the cheerleader, save the world.” “I think ‘Heroes’ is really hot because it’s just a really great combination of everything that people love — they love reality, they love sci-fi and things like X-Men where they get to dream of something bigger,” Panettiere told The Associated Press in 2008. “And at the core of it are these human stories that people can relate to, very rugged. And it’s just grabbed everyone in every age group.” She went on to win three Teen Choice Awards for that role and was a Grammy Award nominee for a children’s spoken word album recorded a few years after the release of the animated movie “A Bug’s Life.” Panettiere later played a brash country upstart opposite Connie Britton on “Nashville,” which aired on ABC for four seasons before being canceled and revived on CMT. She did her own singing in the show, which scored some hits on country charts, spawned U.S. tours and earned Panettiere two supporting actress Golden Globe nominations. Panettiere had 11 songs recorded for “Nashville” appear on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs charts during the show’s run, including two featuring Britton.

JORDAN STRAUSS / AP PHOTO

Hayden Panettiere arrives at the premiere of “Blonde,” in September 2022 in Los Angeles.

Panettiere’s younger brother, Jansen, who was also an actor, died of a heart condition in 2023, at age 28. She had been open about her struggles with alcohol addiction and depression, including after the birth of her daughter with Ukrainian boxer Wladimir Klitschko in 2014. In an interview with podcaster Jay Shetty after her memoir came out in May, Panettiere talked about the custody arrangement for her 11-year-old daughter, who lives full-time with Klitschko in Ukraine. News of the 2018 decision prompted headlines about Panettiere giving up custody of her daughter. “I think there’s been this very common misconception that I just gave up my child,” she said. “That could not be farther from the truth.” Panettiere said Klitschko suggested their daughter live with him full-time when the child was 2 as Panettiere struggled with mental health challenges and addiction. She said she was in a “horrible cycle for years of battling depression and anxiety and alcoholism and substance abuse” while “just trying to find my way back, my way out of the darkness.” She entered rehab in 2015, while filming “Nashville.” “I was the one who put myself in the first treatment center. I was drowning,” she said in a 2023 interview with Women’s Health magazine. On Shetty’s podcast, Panettiere recalled the explosion of her fame when she was cast on “Heroes,” including the first time she was tracked by the paparazzi. When she’d imagined the moment as a younger actress, she’d planned to look chic. Instead, she said, “it was just sheer terror.”

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North State Journal for Thursday, August 20, 2026

STATE & NATION

Democrats disagree over abolishing or reforming ICE at DNC meeting Party divisions on the proposal foreshadow immigration battles ahead of 2028 By Mike Catalini The Associated Press AUSTIN, Texas — Democrats on Saturday approved dueling messages on whether U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement should be abolished or reformed, reflecting sharp opposition to President Donald Trump’s crackdown but revealing disagreement in the party ahead of the midterms. The Democratic National Committee, gathered for a summer meeting, also signed off on a raft of policy positions, including one that calls for “concrete reforms” of ICE and another for abolishing the agency that’s been at the center of several fatal encounters. ICE has been at the heart of

a progressive rallying cry since 2018 during the first Trump administration and has been renewed among some in the party after two recent fatal shootings by the agency in July. Saturday’s vote isn’t binding and doesn’t set the party’s platform, which will be determined at the 2028 convention, but it reflects the party’s differing views on a major issue. Candidates and lawmakers will continue to determine their own positions on the issue. Michele Johnson, a DNC member from Louisiana who proposed the measure to abolish ICE, said it’s time for Democrats to take a stand and pointed to the dissolution of ICE’s predecessor agency, the Immigration and Naturalization Service, as a precedent. “I think one of the reasons why people are not trusting the party is because we sound so academic,” she said. “We sound focus group tested, we sound poll

JOEL ANGEL JUAREZ / AP PHOTO

Democratic National Committee Chair Ken Martin speaks during a Labor Council meeting last Thursday, in Austin, Texas. tested because we’re worried about saying the wrong thing or doing the wrong thing and not just like, just stand on business, like take a position.” Not every DNC member was convinced, though. Yvonne Reeves-Chong voted against

the measure, saying it would only gain support from a part of the party’s base, while drawing “fire” from another group of voters. “I would strongly suggest we get to the business of winning races so we can make the policies that make a difference,” she said. DNC Chairman Ken Martin, who’s from Minnesota, where Renee Good and Alex Pretti were fatally shot amid the immigration crackdown earlier this year, said in an interview that the takeaway is that Democrats find the administration’s handling of immigration, including by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, unacceptable. “Clearly, the one thing that unites Democrats, regardless of their position on reform versus abolish or whatever other ways to change what’s happening, is people believe that what ICE is doing right now — and CBP

Trump orders Pentagon to scale back joint exercises with South Korea South Korea declined to aid U.S. efforts against Iran, prompting the military exercise reductions

By Konstantin Toropin and Alanna Durkin Richer The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump ordered the Pentagon on Sunday to scale back annual joint military exercises with South Korea, saying the ally declined to help with the war against Iran and citing his good relationship with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. Trump said in a social media post that the exercises, which began Monday, are not only costly but “send a signal that is totally inappropriate and hostile” to North Korea, which he said “has been unthreatening and respectful” during his time in the White House. “Therefore, and based on the fact that it is too late to cancel, I have instructed Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to substantially reduce the Joint Military Exercises!” Trump wrote. The president added that he recently asked South Korea’s president if they would join the U.S. in the “denuclearization” of Iran, “and they said, ‘No thanks!’” The move is the latest example of the president appearing to turn against an ally in favor of a leader that previous administrations have cast as an adversary. Trump and others in his administration have also railed against NATO allies over per-

ceived lack of support for his war against Iran, even as they seek to confront an increasingly aggressive Russia in the Baltic region. It is also a sharp turnaround from how his administration has viewed South Korea in recent months. In May, Hegseth praised the longtime ally for its “commitment to increase defense spending” and its “leadership in assuming primary responsibility for the security of the Korean Peninsula” during a meeting at the Pentagon. “It demonstrates alliance burden-sharing that all of America’s partners would do well to follow,” the defense secretary added.

JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO

President Donald Trump gestures as he boards Air Force One at Morristown Airport on Sunday in Morristown, New Jersey.

What U.S. military says about joint exercises The 11 days of exercises involving 18,000 South Korean soldiers were designed to beef up readiness against North Korean threats. The U.S. military has said the summertime Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises reinforce “the role of the alliance as the linchpin for regional peace and security” and reaffirm “the ironclad commitment between the United States and the Republic of Korea to defend their homelands.” The exercises are one of the two main combined drills conducted by the South Korean and U.S. militaries annually, along with their springtime training. U.S. and South Korean forces were expected to practice joint operations in complex scenari-

“Hollowing out these joint exercises is shortsighted and a mistake.” Sen. Mark Kelly, former Navy pilot os, including a live-fire exercise to test joint precision targeting and maneuver, a wet gap crossing, and distribution of prepositioned military equipment, according to the U.S. military. South Korea’s Defense Ministry confirmed that the exercises began on Monday as planned. The joint training started days after North Korea resumed ballistic missile testing activities in defiance of U.N. bans. Trump’s decision was sharp-

ly criticized by Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, a former Navy pilot, who said that “hollowing out these joint exercises is shortsighted and a mistake” in a social media post made just hours after the president’s own post. Earlier this month, South Korea, the U.S. and Japan detected the launches of two ballistic missiles from North Korea in what were the North’s first ballistic weapons testing activities since late June. The missiles landed in the waters off North Korea’s east coast. North Korea threatens strong response North Korea has been pushing hard to enlarge its nuclear and missile arsenals since Kim’s high-stakes diplomacy with Trump collapsed in 2019.

“Clearly, the one thing that unites Democrats, regardless of their position on reform versus abolish or whatever other ways to change what’s happening, is people believe that what ICE is doing right now.” Ken Martin, DNC Chairman and the federal government — should stop,” he said. “There has to be a better way.” Immigration remained a stronger issue for Trump than the economy or Iran, according to a poll by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research released this month, even after three people were killed in encounters with Immigration and Customs Enforcement in the span of under a week in July. Overall, the survey found that only 39% of U.S. adults approve of his performance on immigration, down from 49% at the beginning of his second term.

Experts say Kim likely believes a bigger weapons arsenal would increase his chances for wresting more concessions from the U.S. in future negotiations. North Korea on Friday threatened unspecified stern steps against the U.S. and South Korea, describing their military drills as “a rehearsal for an aggressive war” that are triggering greater instability in the region. The warning was typical of the harsh rhetoric that North Korea often deploys ahead of major U.S.-South Korean military exercises. Experts say North Korea has often used its rivals’ drills as a pretext to ramp up testing activities to modernize weapons and promote public support for the reclusive North Korean leader. Trump met with the North Korean leader three times during his first term to discuss the country’s nuclear program, most recently in 2019. Since returning to office, Trump has expressed interest in continuing those discussions. In September 2025, Kim said he held “good personal memories” of Trump and suggested he could return to talks if the U.S. drops “its delusional obsession with denuclearization” of North Korea. Trump’s announcement came a day after he posted a photo of himself standing next to North Korea’s Kim, writing that the two leaders get along great “despite the unfriendly look on this particular picture.” This is not the first time that Trump has sought to end the exercises. During his first term he also issued a surprise announcement that called the war games “provocative.” “We will be stopping the war games, which will save us a tremendous amount of money, unless and until we see the future negotiation is not going along like it should,” Trump told reporters after his 2018 meeting with Kim in Singapore.

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