North State Journal Vol. 11 Issue 31

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 31 | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

NSJONLINE.COM

KENT NISHIMURA / POOL PHOTO VIA AP

JD in the GSO

Vice President JD Vance arrives to speak at a rally Monday at Koury Convention Center in Greensboro in support of several Republican candidates for office in North Carolina.

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UNC System poised for another tuition hike next year

BRIEF this week

Trump suggests Ukraine deal on Russia’s war could be close United Nations Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met Tuesday with his U.S. counterpart, Donald Trump, and expressed hope that the White House can help end Russia’s war on his country — even as attacks from both sides keep escalating. Trump previously had called on Zelenskyy to halt strikes on Russian oil refineries and other infrastructure used to produce and distribute diesel, saying the attacks are contributing to global shortages and higher prices. The supply crunch has also been aggravated by reduced oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz following the outbreak of the Iran war.

N.Y., Calif. sue to block cancellation of offshore wind projects Washington, D.C. Democratic attorneys general from California and New York sued the Trump administration Tuesday over its plans to buy back offshore wind leases as President Donald Trump seeks to discourage the expansion of wind energy in favor of fossil fuels. California Attorney General Rob Bonta said he is suing over removal of a project off his state’s coast planned by Chicago-based Invenergy. The Trump administration said in June that it’s buying back the company’s U.S. offshore wind leases for four wind projects on the East and West coasts. New York Attorney General Letitia James, meanwhile, led seven states in suits seeking to block the Invenergy deal and another proposal with Bluepoint Wind.

Court lets auditor keep elections appointments Gov. Josh Stein can still ask the state Supreme Court to hear the case By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — A North Carolina Court of Appeals panel ruled 2-1 last Wednesday that state lawmakers had the power to move elections-board appointments held by Gov. Josh Stein

See AUDITOR, page A2

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — Another tuition hike is on the horizon for UNC System schools following a UNC Board of Governors meeting last week. The rate increase is the second in two years after a nine-year freeze. UNC schools were greenlit to request rate increases of up to 3% for new in-state undergraduates. This increase means new in-state undergraduate students could be paying up to 6% more than they would have two years ago, depending on which school they attend. Nine of the 17 UNC schools increased tuition by 3% for the current academic year. Outliers included Appalachian State

12 Atrium hospitals, clinics to join SHP Access tier “The addition of a dozen of their hospitals will give our members an affordable choice to take advantage of this expertise.” Brad Briner, state treasurer

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to State Auditor Dave Boliek. The decision upholds a 2024 law (S.B. 382) that flipped control of the State Board of Elections and all 100 county boards from the governor to the state auditor. Those boards now have Republican majorities. Before S.B. 382, the governor appointed all five members of the North Carolina State Board of Elections, filled

The increase is the second 3% hike in two years after a nine-year freeze

Several Atrium facilities will remain in the Non-Preferred tier By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal A NEW partnership between the North Carolina State Health Plan and Atrium Health was recently announced, adding 12 Atrium hospitals and associated clinics to the plan’s Access level. “Our objective has always been clear and consistent — we must offer our members high-quality care for affordable prices,” said Treasurer Brad Briner. “For the Plan, that must include reduced prices from providers as compared to

what they are charging today. “This agreement includes meaningful affordability commitments from Atrium Health that help us improve access for members while supporting the long-term sustainability of the Plan. This new provider tier system, which has now forged partnerships with all of the state’s leading hospital systems, is putting us on the right path.” Members who use a primary care provider at Atrium Health can continue care with no change in cost or benefits. When members under the State Health Plan (SHP) visit Atrium rural hospitals, their benefits will be nearly identical to the current year’s See SHP, page A3

(2.5%) and UNC Asheville (1.5%). Winston-Salem State was the only school that didn’t raise rates. The system’s four NC Promise schools have their tuition capped by state law. Last year’s hikes were estimated to bring in about $21 million by 2030, according to UNC System President Peter Hans. Officials now estimate the second increase could add as much as $43 million by 2031. More student fee increases may also happen. Most fees are capped at 3%, but campuses could increase certain fees to maintain “core activities.” The Board of Governors (BOG) said it will review requests from UNC schools in the coming months, and if approved, the new rates would apply to the 2027-28 school year. UNC System Chief Financial See UNC, page A3

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

THURSDAY

9.24.26 #560

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AUDITOR from page A1 vacancies, named chairs of county boards and oversaw the board’s budget. Judge April Wood wrote the majority opinion, with Judge Valerie Zachary concurring. Both are Republicans. They said moving appointment power from one elected executive officer to another is not a clear violation of the state constitution. “We cannot hold that the reassignment of duties from the governor to the auditor results in a plain and clear violation of the separation of powers,” wrote Wood. “Whether the General Assembly should be allowed to reassign these duties from a public policy standpoint is not for this court to decide.” Stein can still ask the state Supreme Court to hear the case. The majority ruling held “the Governor’s complaint raises a justiciable question. We affirm the portion of the three-judge panel’s order determining the Governor’s claims are ripe for judicial determination.” Wood wrote that the change leaves the governor with little control over the boards and no way to make sure members share his policy views. Even so, the majority said that’s not enough to strike the law down, and since the state’s constitution doesn’t assign elections appointments to the governor by name, the General Assembly can set duties of Council of State officers, including the auditor. The majority stressed that elections boards aren’t supposed to follow any one politician’s preferences, and board members are barred from certain political activity. Wood wrote that declaring the transfer unconstitutional would amount to saying the boards must answer to the governor’s politics. The majority judges also said they weren’t creating a blanket rule for every future shift of duties among Council of State members but that each case must be judged on its own facts. The ruling noted that a future legislature could move the power again. Judge John Arrowood, a

the word | Then the worm became a splendid butterfly “Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your hearts on things above! Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things!” Colossians 3:1-2 Paul reminds us that those who believe on Christ — should live a risen life. We live on the earth at present. We walk on earth’s streets. We live in material houses, built of stones, bricks, or wood. We eat earth’s fruits, gathering our food from earth’s fields, orchards and gardens. We wear clothes woven of earthly fabrics. We adorn our homes with works of art that human hands make. We engage in the business of earth. We find our happiness in the things of this life. But there will be a life after this. We call it Heaven. We cannot see it. There is never a rift in the sky, through which we can get even a glimpse of it. We have in the Scriptures hints of its beauty, its happiness, its blessedness. We know it is a world without sorrow, without sin, without death. Paul’s teaching is that the Christian, while living on the earth — ought to begin to live this heavenly life. One day a friend sent me a splendid butterfly, artistically mounted, known as the Lima Moth. This little creature is said to be the most beautiful of North American insects. Its color is light green with variegated spots. In its caterpillar state, it was only a worm. It died and entered its other or higher state, as we would say — and then the worm became a splendid butterfly. This illustrates the two stages of a Christian’s life. Here we are in our earthly state. After this will come the heavenly condition.

Democrat, dissented. He argued the state constitution vests executive power in the governor and gives the governor, not other statewide officers, the duty to “take care that the laws be faithfully executed.” “I would conclude the enforcement of election laws is a core function and power of the governor, who accordingly requires some degree of control over the state board and county boards as part of his constitutional duties,” wrote Arrowood. Arrowood also criticized the court’s earlier decision to let Boliek start making appointments while the appeal was still pending. “Today’s ruling affirms the constitutional independence of the State Auditor’s Office,” Boliek said in a statement on the ruling. “As part of the executive branch of North Carolina, we will continue to uphold the election duties prescribed to our office. “Our goal remains to ensure elections in North Carolina are run impartially, effectively, and securely, and that all eligible voters have access to the voting booth. I have confidence in the State Board of Elections and our local boards of elections.” The dispute began after Stein, a Democrat, won the governorship in 2024. The Republican-led General Assembly passed S.B. 382 that year. Stein sued over the law, and a three-judge trial court sided with him, ruling the transfer violated the state constitution. In April 2025, a different state Court of Appeals panel issued a stay that blocked the trial ruling. That stay let Boliek appoint new members. The state Supreme Court later left the stay in place in a 5-2 vote split along party lines. Following the stay, Boliek named Republican majorities on the state board and every county board. Additionally, one of the new State Board of Elections’ first moves was to replace Executive Director Karen Brinson Bell with Sam Hayes. In 2019, when the board was a Democratic majority, it ousted longtime Executive Director Kim Strach, replacing her with Bell.

“Butterflies” by Winslow Homer (1878) is a painting in the collection of the New Britain Museum of American Art in New Britain, Connecticut.

PUBLIC DOMAIN

“The things that are above” belong to this higher, spiritual life. But the Christian is exhorted to seek these higher things — while living in this lower world. We belong to heaven, although we are not yet living in heaven. Paul presents the same truth in another form, when he says, “Our citizenship is in heaven.” Though

The case returned to the Court of Appeals for a full decision after Wood, Zachary and Arrowood heard arguments in February. Stein’s lawyer, Eric Fletcher, warned that if lawmakers can move this power once, they can move it again to any Council of State member they prefer

we are in this earthly world, we do not belong here. We are only strangers and pilgrims.

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

— regardless of who voters just elected. Lawyers for legislative leaders and for Boliek argued the state constitution lets the General Assembly assign statutory duties among independently elected executives, so long as the duty isn’t reserved to the governor by name.

Related legal fights over other parts of S.B. 382 include limits on how the governor fills appellate judgeships and appointments to other boards. Those cases, which have been consolidated, are headed to the state Supreme Court for oral arguments Nov. 11.

NCDOT HOSTING A PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE A PROPOSAL TO GRADE SEPARATE N.E. MAYNARD ROAD UNDER THE NCRR/NORFOLK SOUTHERN AND CSX RAIL LINES AND REALIGN THE CHATHAM STREET/N.E. MAYNARD ROAD INTERSECTION SOUTH OF ITS EXISTING ALIGNMENT IN WAKE COUNTY

Project No. P-5718 CARY - The N.C. Department of Transportation is hosting a public meeting to discuss the proposal to grade separate N.E. Maynard Road under the NCRR/Norfolk Southern and CSX Rail lines in Cary. 7KH SXUSRVH RI WKLV SURMHFW LV WR HOLPLQDWH UDLO KLJKZD\ FRQÀLFWV DW WKH existing at-grade railroad crossing location on N.E. Maynard Road near its intersection with E. Chatham Street. The proposed project will improve vehicular mobility and safety at this location and the surrounding area. Project details and maps can be found on NCDOT’s project input website at publicinput. com/maynardroad-gradeseparation. The information will be available at the meeting allowing for one-on-one discussions with NCDOT staff, but there will be no formal presentation. The meeting will be held from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on October 6 at First Cary United Methodist Church, Community, 117 S. Academy Street, in Cary. People may also submit comments by phone at 984-205-6615 project code 7714, email maynardroad-gradeseparation@publicinput.com, or mail at the address shown below by October 27, 2026. By Mail:

Matthew Potter NCDOT Rail Division – Engineer Consultant 1 South Wilmington Street Raleigh, NC 27699-1553

NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled people who wish to participate in this meeting. Anyone requiring special services should contact Tony Gallagher, Environmental Analysis Unit, at 1598 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1598, 919-707-6069 or magallagher@ncdot.gov as early as possible so arrangements can be made. Those who do not speak English, or have a limited availability to read, speak or understand English, may receive interpretive services upon request prior to the meeting 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 antes de la reunión llamando al 1-800-481-6494.

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

FIRE releases College Free Speech Rankings Among North Carolina schools, only Appalachian State maintained its ranking

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression issued its 2027 College Free Speech rankings this month, with one North Carolina school, Appalachian State, cracking the top 10. Schools are given an overall score, which is the sum of 12 survey categories — half measure student perceptions, three assess campus speech policies and three evaluate school response to free speech controversies. The scores have corresponding speech climate grades, ranging from A to F. This year’s average overall score was 61.36, which FIRE reported was the “highest recorded in seven years,” but the collective Dgrade is “an unacceptable state of affairs,” FIRE said. Last year’s report said more than 64% of schools (166 out of 257) received an F. “At a tumultuous time for higher education, we are seeing some progress in campus free speech policies and indications that students may be less willing to tolerate shoutdowns and violence on campus compared to recent years,” FIRE President and CEO Greg Lukianoff said in a press release. “But the overall state of free speech on campus is grim. “Too many college administrators wield their power to cancel controversial speakers, cave to government or student calls for censorship, and limit academic freedom. This report emphasizes the need for colleges to embrace their constitutional obligations wholeheartedly.”

UNC from page A1 benefits for out-of-pocket and deductible costs. Rural hospitals in Alleghany, Anson, Cleveland (Shelby and Kings Mountain), Columbus, Lincoln, Scotland, Stanly or Wilkes counties will be added to the Access tier of the SHP. According to a document depicting hospitals across the state and their tiers, some Atrium providers (Cabarrus, Carolinas Medical Center, Lake Norman, Mercy, Pineville, Union, Union West and University City) remain in the Non-Preferred tier. “Atrium Health is nationally recognized for its patient-centric care leveraging clinical research and education which gives North Carolinians access to cutting-edge expertise and care, and I am grateful for to their leadership for presenting multiple proposals for consideration to the Plan,” Briner said. “The addition of a dozen of their hospitals will give our members an affordable choice to take advantage of this expertise.” The new agreement means all of North Carolina’s major healthcare systems are part of

SHP from page A1 Officer Jennifer Haygood, who presented a report on the tuition and fees to the BOG, cited inflation as the driver behind more hikes. “Several UNC System institutions also requested increases in resident graduate tuition rates, nonresident tuition rates, and graduate professional school rates, and to establish rates for new professional programs,” the report said. The increase was not unexpected, with the Committee on Budget and Finance approving increases to tuition and fees for the 2026-27 academic year during a meeting in late February. Not everyone on the BOG

The report says 261 schools were ranked, and 121 received an “F” for their speech climates. The report surveyed 63,000 students. The University of Chicago ranked No. 1 for the third year out of the past seven and garnered a B- climate score. New York University (261) ranked last, preceded by the University of Washington (260) and Texas State University (259). Appalachian State ranked highest among North Carolina schools, maintaining its spot at No. 8 with a C, the same climate score as last year. UNC Greensboro and NC State also slid in the rankings this year. UNCG, which ranked sixth last year, dropped five spots to No. 11, while NC State slid eight spots, from No. 10 to 18th. Two other North Carolina universities made the 2027 report’s top 20, each receiving C grade climate scores: UNC Charlotte (12) and East Carolina (15). Last year, UNC Charlotte was ranked at 20th and East Carolina at No. 14. UNC Chapel Hill was ranked 31st with a C-, and Duke University came in at No. 50 with a D+ climate score. UNC and Duke dropped 12 and 13 spots, respectively, from the previous year’s rankings. North Carolina schools coming in after Duke that earned D scores were North Carolina A&T (58), Davidson (63) and Wake Forest (159), which earned an F. Howev-

er, Wake Forest’s score improved by 27 spots over last year’s ranking of 186. The other two schools dropped from last year’s rankings: North Carolina A&T fell seven spots from No. 51 last year, while Davidson dropped 15 places to 78th. According to FIRE, the rankings slid after the assassination of Charlie Kirk in September 2025. “The impact of Charlie Kirk’s assassination continues to negatively reverberate on campuses across the country,” said FIRE Chief Researcher Sean Stevens. “Rather than view the tragedy as a warning about the extreme results of partisanship and inability to peacefully engage in dialogue, many college admins took it as an invitation to double down on censorship.” Self-censorship remains a serious issue, despite a slight decline from last year’s record-high percentage of students who said it’s acceptable to shout down a speaker, block entry to or use violence to stop a campus speech. “After seven years of surveying almost 350,000 college undergraduates nationwide, a sobering picture has emerged: Students are reluctant to speak their minds, especially on controversial political issues,” the 2027 report states. Key related findings include half of students reporting the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was difficult to discuss openly and honestly on campus, down three points from last year. Students responding to the survey also said difficult topics to discuss included Donald Trump (46%), Kirk (44%), abortion (43%), immigration (38%) and transgender rights (38%). Relatedly, the report says “a majority of students” opposed allowing any of the six controversial speakers (three conservative, three liberal) included in the survey to speak on campus for the second year in a row. Individual school rankings can be explored at rankings. fire.org.

the SHP’s tiered network plans. “We recognize many State Health Plan members have been concerned about what these changes could mean for them and their families,” said Michael Parkerson, executive vice president and chief managed health officer for Advocate Health, which Atrium Health is a part of. “This agreement provides greater clarity and preserves access to important services, including primary care, emergency care, behavioral health services, rural care, children’s hospitals and continuity of care for patients with complex medical needs. “We appreciate the collaborative work that made this agreement possible and look forward to continuing discussions about how we can continue to improve access, quality and affordability for North Carolinians in the future.” When the SHP tiers were approved in July, Atrium was chosen as a Non-Preferred provider, sparking concerns and conversations between it and the treasurer’s office. Atrium and the treasurer’s office began discussions in mid-July to address access to care and afford-

ability, according to the press release. The SHP provides healthcare to nearly 750,000 teachers, state employees, retirees, current and former lawmakers, state university and community college personnel and their dependents. The SHP has a projected deficit approaching $507 million and introduced its four-tier plan in June to steer SHP members to cost-saving options. Premiums were raised by a flat 5% for most members in July, and Blue Cross NC won the contracts to become the Third-Party Administrative Services and Pharmacy Benefit Manager in 2028. Tiers in the SHP include Preferred, Access, Non-Preferred and Out-of-Network, which aim to reduce healthcare costs. Atrium is a nonprofit healthcare system with more than 40 hospitals and 1,400 care locations. It is part of Advocate Health, the third-largest nonprofit health system in the U.S. Before the SHP, Atrium operated as a standard in-network provider. Adjustments made to the SHP will take effect Jan. 1.

was happy with increasing rates again, with member Woody White saying the move was sending campuses a “green light” to raise rates and predicted most will ask for the full 3%. Fellow member Art Pope said he thought last year’s increase was supposed to be a one-time response to a late state budget while expressing concern increases would become “routine.” “I think we should go back to our original goal of keeping tuition flat,” Pope said. Other members argued the increases were needed and holding the line was unrealistic, citing increases to salaries and construction costs. The new 3% increase comes as the UNC System announced

a new enrollment record of more than 260,000 students. “The North Carolina approach to higher education is working,” Hans said in a press release. “We’ve simplified enrollment and financial aid while highlighting the excellent value of a degree in our state.” “Our priorities remain accessibility, affordability, and quality. There are some real challenges ahead with the size of the traditional student population, but we’re in a strong position to keep attracting talent and delivering on our mission.” The press release says undergraduate enrollment rose 2.3% and total enrollment is up 1.4% over last year. Additionally, the number of transfer students rose by 3.6%.

“The overall state of free speech on campus is grim.” Greg Lukianoff, FIRE president and CEO

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STAN GILLILAND FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Steve Troxler is closing in on 22 years as North Carolina’s commissioner of Agriculture.

Troxler looks back on 20-plus years as Ag commissioner The Republican is focused on conserving farmland and protecting farmers By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal This is Part 1 of a two-part interview STEVE TROXLER has been North Carolina’s Agriculture commissioner for nearly 22 years and is currently in his sixth term. His priorities as commissioner have been to preserve farmland, secure disaster management funding and integrate technology in agricultural practices. “When I came into office, North Carolina was actually leading the nation in the disappearance of farms,” said Troxler. “We set out to set up a much better farmland preservation program for North Carolina and the creation of the Farmland Preservation Trust Fund.” The Agricultural Development and Farmland Preservation (ADFP) Trust Fund provides grants to county governments and nonprofit organizations for conservation, agricultural development projects and agricultural plans. The program is within the state’s Farmland Preservation Division, which leverages funds from private, local and federal partners. “Unfortunately, development has overcome the good work we’ve done,” said Troxler. “We are probably approaching about 50,000 acres of farmland and forestland protected over that period of time. We can do a lot of things in agriculture, but if we don’t have the natural resources, we’re dead in the water.” He said this year is the first time there has been “significant funding to protect farm and forest,” which totals to “$47 million in one-time funds and the normal $5 million recurring.” An additional $2 million in recurring funds was also granted, totaling about $54 million. According to Troxler, about $108 million has been spent in the past 21 years, meaning “half as much this coming year” that will “make sure North Carolina remains green and growing.” Troxler said it’s predicted that between now and 2040, North Carolina will lose between 1.2 million and 1.6 million acres of farmland, which is also stated in an American Farmland Trust report. “That changes the whole face of what North Carolina is,” said Troxler. “The green and growing crops and the forests are so important to air quality, temperatures and the recharging of groundwater. All of these come into play for the general public, so it’s not just the food supply.”

The $54 million will go to farmland preservation. Troxler said the N.C. Department of Agriculture is “very excited to get started with a serious farmland preservation program.” Troxler also emphasized securing disaster funding for farmers, discussing Hurricane Floyd in the late 1990s, two tropical storms that hit the mountains in 2004, a drought from 2007 to 2008 as well as Hurricane Matthew and Hurricane Florence. He added Hurricane Helene was the biggest of the bunch, causing “about $5 billion in damage to agriculture.” More than $445 million was approved in state money for farmers affected by Helene, with an additional $221 million in a federal block grant. “When we finish up, we hope we have gotten agriculture back in a way that they can see the future and bring young people back to the farms,” said Troxler. Troxler also discussed incorporating technology, including artificial intelligence, into a workable solution. The N.C. Department of Agriculture is partnered with North Carolina A&T, NC State and various agricultural research organizations in a joint effort called the N.C. Cooperative Extension. The extension works with technology such as drones and reading the conditions of plants to improve farm growth and development. Troxler stated the technology identifies if a plant is stressed by disease or water, or if it has fertilizer needs, and how using that “to grow crops is where the rubber meets the road.” The Tidewater Research Station in Plymouth was mentioned, given its path to investing in technology to test agricultural advancements for growing crops. If successful, “the extension service will incorporate that and show farmers of the latest techniques and productions.” When asked about how smaller farms will be able to keep up with technological strides in agriculture, Troxler said he doesn’t “distinguish the value of a farm by how big it is” and how the extension service will “incorporate anything that is new and on the cutting edge to every farmer in North Carolina.” Troxler emphasized he doesn’t want any farmers left behind but believes the effort is possible with the “tools available to produce the food supply to keep people around the world from being hungry.” Part two of NSJ’s interview with Troxler will cover his strategies for preserving farmland amidst residential development, plans for reelection and his experiences as a farmer and grandfather.

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

The U.S. Senate race for North Carolina’s future No North Carolina senator has served on the defense Subcommittee in the modern era.

AFTER LABOR DAY is when voters really focus on issues and candidates for elections. It is the time to be reminded of what each senator, congressman and president can do according to the principles set aside in the Constitution. There are very circumscribed roles and duties elected representatives can perform on behalf of the people they represent and the nation at large. Former North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper is running a lot of ads urging people to elect him senator under the banner of “Make Stuff Cost Less.” Can any U.S. senator really just snap their fingers and make things cost less in a $32 trillion economy or make people’s lives better? The market economy of the United States is based on free-will decisions of millions of people every day, not one senator or political party. Just a cursory look at Democratic proposals makes it clear they believe government can wield a magic wand to make things cost less by government intervention instead of allowing market functions to dictate those prices. Higher prices have more to do with the amount of money that has been created to finance the enormous debt America has accumulated over time than anything else. The most important thing any senator or congressman can do to lower prices would be to balance budgets by reducing the rate of government spending and keep taxes and regulations low on taxpayers and businesses alike. Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley both have the opportunity to become one of the senators

who can make that happen during their term in Washington, D.C. It is important for voters to select the right one. However, there is another race for which both will be competing if they get elected that may be more important to the long-term health and future of North Carolina if either succeeds in their quest. Once elected, our new senator will have the chance to get on any of the important committees and subcommittees in the Senate. A U.S. senator can get appointed to the powerful Senate Appropriations Committee — the Defense Subcommittee specifically — and positively impact the well-being and economic health of North Carolina for the next century. No North Carolina senator has served on the Defense Subcommittee in the modern era. North Carolina has sent 46 senators to Washington, D.C., over the past two centuries. For the most part, their political chits have been spent defending tobacco and peanut programs since agriculture is so important to the state. Perhaps it is time to find another industry on which a senator can spend some chits that will greatly improve the lives of North Carolinians for the next two centuries at minimum. During my time in Sen. Elizabeth Dole’s office, there were numerous defense contractors that expressed interest in making major investments in the state. However, they were reluctant to do so without a senator on Defense Appropriations to make sure those contracts would stay in force. North Carolina has the almost perfect lineup of factors that would make defense

manufacturing on a major scale in the state a great success. There is a multitude of highly trained engineers coming out of NC State, NC A&T and other universities in addition to having the best community college system in America that can train thousands of people needed for advanced line-assembly work. The pool of military veterans coming out of our military bases after service completion would surely be enough to satisfy any defense contractor’s wildest expectations for high-quality, dependable employment. The number of drone, missile and advanced technology defense systems that will be needed to defend America for the next millennium almost boggles the mind. They have to be built somewhere, so why not build them in North Carolina and pay North Carolinians handsomely to do so? The benefits to North Carolinians could be line jobs starting in the range of $150,000 in salary plus generous benefits. That is real money in former textile or tobacco towns such as Goldsboro, Kenansville, Burlington or any of the Tier IV most economically distressed counties in the state. Asking Senate candidates which committees they would like to serve on is not the typical question one sees in modern campaigns. But politics is a forward-looking telescope and should not be a rear-view mirror focusing solely on a candidate’s foibles. If a North Carolina senator wants to help improve the lives of North Carolinians for the future, getting on the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee would be the most direct way possible.

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

The signs of fall emerge

It comforts us, though, to know he has the best seat in the house now with a pretty spectacular view to watch all the seasons.

I CAN’T SPEAK to how it is anywhere else, but here in Charlotte, the signs that autumn is upon us are usually pretty well evident by this point in the month of September, even before the “official” start of the season, which, for this year, was Tuesday. Normally, we’ve started to see a fair amount of the red, gold and orange coloring on the leaves as the trees prepare to shed them. But not so much this year. While we are seeing a yellowing of some leaves, that’s not necessarily a sign of fall’s arrival, as noted by WCNC chief meteorologist Brad Panovich, who posted photos of this on Facebook last Wednesday while noting, “Lots of heat and drought stress on our area’s trees. It’s not early fall; this is a defense against water loss and heat.” In another Facebook post, likely in response to questions about when it would begin to look and feel more like fall, Panovich quipped, “Autumn is not starting up correctly. I’ll try reinstalling and rebooting.” As recently as last Friday, he revealed, “We have now had 30 days of 95-degree-plus this year. The fifth most on record.” The good news is Monday was likely our last 90-degree day for the year. Temperatures after that will fall into the 80s and 70s, with even a sprinkling of a couple of 60-plus-degree days mixed in. Though it’s good that the signs of autumn will be more obvious in the coming days, some were already making themselves known in recent weeks. The nights have been noticeably and consistently cooler. Even during the daytime,

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there have been warmer days when the humidity wasn’t so thick you could cut it with a knife. Also, we’ve seen the inevitable beginnings of the spider webs being spun from the tops of the azalea bushes and spanning to the undersides of the gutters. We are also seeing fewer bees and, unfortunately, fewer birds at either of our feeders because this time of year is not only the start of migration but also when natural food sources apparently become more abundant. There have also been the human-made signs of fall, like the start of the high school and college football seasons, not to mention the NFL game days and the start of the Major League Baseball playoffs.

There are also the colorful pumpkin and gourd displays you can find at the grocery stores and garden centers, the apple-cinnamon cupcakes you can sample at your favorite bakery, and the pumpkin-spice lattes you can sip on at your local coffee shop. It also wouldn’t be complete without the fall home decor, which includes a front door wreath, garden flags, and autumn-themed kitchen towels and candles to get you in the spirit. Fall was one of my dad’s favorite seasons, and this is the fourth year in a row that Mom and I haven’t had the pleasure of his company when we sit down to watch Sunday pro football games, where Dad and I would compete to see who could call the penalties correctly the most. As a side note, he would have been torn watching the Carolina Panthers stuff the Atlanta Falcons 34-3 in the most recent game. Atlanta was his first favorite NFL team, and he never let that go even though the Panthers became his No. 1 team eventually. It comforts us, though, to know he has the best seat in the house now with a pretty spectacular view to watch all the seasons as they come and go, and he is no doubt enjoying this one. As for Mom and me? Let’s just say the house will be smelling like pumpkin and cinnamon real soon. 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, September 24, 2026

COLUMN | ADAM CALDWELL

COLUMN

North Carolina farmers deserve the full story on oxfam Agriculture and its related sectors support roughly 1 million jobs, one in every five in our state.

LAST WEEK, NC State’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences published new research showing that agriculture continues to be the backbone of our state’s economy, generating more than $117 billion in total statewide economic impact. North Carolina has been ranked in the top two of CNBC’s Top States For Business for the last six consecutive years, including holding the No. 1 spot in both 2025 and 2023. North Carolina knows that agriculture is the backbone of our state’s economy. Unfortunately, fewer than 60 days out from the Nov. 3 election, out-of-state activists are trying to undermine the strength of our economy, workforce, and the farm communities and families that feed and support them, to gin up publicity and turnout for antiagriculture, antibusiness voices that seek to undermine N.C.’s long-term economic competitiveness, especially in our agricultural sector. Oxfam America, a global left-wing activist group, issued a report labeling North Carolina as the worst state in the country for workers. Oxfam itself describes its rankings as one of the “flagship” research products in its progressive advocacy work. The report measures 37 labor policies and says it is intended to provide policymakers with a “roadmap” and models for state and federal action. Among the policies it rewards are extending minimum-wage and workers’ compensation requirements to farmworkers, collective bargaining for agricultural workers and repeal of right-to-work laws. Oxfam’s record speaks for itself. It has directly attacked American farmers and once published a broadside against the American Farm Bureau Federation under the headline, “Can the Farm Bureau get over itself?” Oxfam attacked the Farm Bureau for opposing a federal budget proposal that would have shifted a larger share of America’s international food aid purchases away from American farmers, allowing more of those dollars to flow to foreign producers instead. Oxfam’s agenda also extends to pushing to abolish fossil fuels and calling for the United States to rapidly phase them out.

That context is largely missing from the coverage Oxfam receives. CBS 17 in Raleigh turned to Braxton Winston, North Carolina AFL-CIO president and a failed 2024 candidate for Labor commissioner, as its principal outside voice on the report without offering a corresponding perspective from a farmer, employer or business organization. WCCB TV in Charlotte went further, using Oxfam’s ranking as the backdrop for a story about organized labor launching a statewide voter-turnout campaign, with union bosses preparing to knock on doors ahead of the November election. In both cases, readers receive little in the way of facts needed to understand that Oxfam’s rankings reflect a clear antiagriculture and antibusiness policy agenda. The media’s coverage around Oxfam’s annual “report” treats its advocacy as objective economic analysis and gives activist organizations free publicity without giving readers the broader facts necessary to properly judge the group’s claims for themselves. North Carolina should remember what is at stake. Agriculture and its related sectors support roughly 1 million jobs, one in every five in our state. Together, they contribute more than $117 billion to North Carolina’s economy, according to a recent analysis from NC State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. The extreme policies pushed by groups like Oxfam and its allies would devastate North Carolina farms and rural communities already struggling with rising costs and global trade uncertainty. With Election Day approaching on Nov. 3, voters should look past tilted headlines and carefully examine where candidates stand on the issues most affecting North Carolina’s economy. When North Carolina farmers and farm communities turn out to vote, they send a message Raleigh and Washington, D.C., cannot afford to ignore. Adam Caldwell is executive director of the NC Ag Partnership, a policy and advocacy organization representing farmers, agribusiness and allied partners across North Carolina.

COLUMN | KELLY D. JOHNSTON

Can media trust be restored? Americans simply must reward it. I bet they will.

“WHAT GETS REWARDED gets repeated.” That quote, a cardinal rule of behavior change, comes from psychologist James Clear and his 2018 book, “Atomic Habits.” It is no less true of today’s news media. But given the collapse in media trust over the past half-century, as measured by Gallup, is there any hope? Many of us boomers and our elders once habitually turned to CBS’s Walter Cronkite, who concluded every evening news broadcast with his signature, “And that’s the way it is.” Others turned to NBC’s John Chancellor or ABC’s Howard K. Smith, whose visual authority and calm demeanor many of us watched every evening for our nightly dollop of news. We are not going back. There is no Walter Cronkite 2.0, and the media, both as an institution and a source for information, has dramatically evolved with the advent of the Watergate scandal of the early 1970s and especially social media over the past 20 years. More Americans get their news from the internet. While all the major networks — plus a few newcomers such as CNN, Fox News, MSNOW and News Nation — still feature evening news broadcasts, their ratings have declined as more viewers tire of the outrage. Newsrooms are but shadows of their former selves. The daily newspaper I once edited, the Henryetta (Oklahoma) Daily Free-Lance, is no longer a daily. Publications of record struggle to support subscriptions and keep up with new, independent and citizen-driven journalists. Others use provocative videos and headlines to draw clicks on social media, fueling the Outrage Machine. Recently, X reported that it found about 200,000 “bots” or phony accounts created by Communist Chinese-tied entities. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz recently criticized free speech and claimed his government had an obligation to “protect” Germans. “Don’t anyone come to me with free speech!” Merz said. We must “still be able to protect citizens from false information.” Canada’s Liberal government heavily subsidizes its legacy media and is now bankrolling a directory to help Canadians find news they can “trust.” What can go wrong? Americans are right to ask, “What, and who, do I trust?” How can Americans curate their own news and protect themselves from fake news in an AI world? Is there any reason to be optimistic about the future of journalism? As Americans increasingly turn away from media that seems more interested in clickbait and controversy than trusting consumers with information and allowing them to make their own judgments, we run the enormous risk of a less-informed, or increasingly misinformed, voting populace. Example One is the data center debate. The market is responding with new and valuable sources of information.

While the media today is more fragmented and provocative than ever with “untrained” citizen journalists often breaking news and information well ahead of traditional media, it is also more democratized than ever. Consumers have more media choices and more options to curate their news than ever. That does not mean we are good at it. But there is evidence we are getting better, and the market, as it always does, is responding with attractive options. Among the news aggregators is AllSides, which studiously rates its sources and reports news that one side or the other has missed. Ground.news is another, along with Straight Arrow News. Sure, many of these outlets are behind paywalls, but we have always paid for our news through subscriptions or advertising. In the broadcast world, News Nation has stepped into the breach with a more traditional reporting style mixed with less provocative opinion shows that cater to a broader, more diverse audience. Others have appeared, and there’s evidence that some legacy media — such as CBS and its new editor, Bari Weiss — are seizing the opportunity. Weiss, the former New York Times editor who created the wildly successful “The Free Press,” is now working to restore CBS’s reputation. Americans simply must reward it. I bet they will. Regaining and rebuilding trust takes time. But the good news is Americans are beginning to reward more responsible and balanced news coverage. Long-form, informative podcasts confirm that trend. And that which gets rewarded gets repeated. Kelly D. Johnston was the 28th secretary of the Senate. A former newspaper reporter and editor and congressional press secretary, he is also the co-chair of the Stubblefield Institute for Civil Political Communication at West Virginia’s Shepherd University.

GARLAND TUCKER

College sports: Please, no help from Congress! AS RAHM EMANUEL famously quipped, “You never let a serious crisis go to waste.” Well, the corollary to that quip is, “Every crisis predictably brings out the worst in Congress.” Look no further than Dodd-Frank or COVID-19 response legislation for verification. The latest example of this is the college sports “crisis.” No one can deny the deplorable status of college sports. The crisis has been building for decades. Innumerable scandals involving fake classes for athletes, under-the-table compensation, circumvention of NCAA rules, classroom cheating, megacontracts for coaches — and now the outright direct payments to college athletes. The mythical “student athlete” no longer exists. The sad truth is the athletic programs of Division I colleges bear absolutely no relationship to the educational mission of higher education. Enough is enough! It’s time for a dose of painful realism — and radical change. But the answer is not a congressional Band-Aid as proposed by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas). It’s particularly painful to see Cruz, who is generally a principled conservative, fall for the mirage of federal regulation. Anyone who has faith in regulation has never spent much time with regulators! As Milton Friedman observed, “Corruption is government intrusion into market efficiencies in the form of regulations.” The market is totally capable of efficiently sorting out both educational institutions and professional sports teams. The problem here is that Cruz’s proposed regulation would perpetuate the inefficient — and unseemly — marriage of higher education with professional sports. Colleges can compete for scholars, and professional sports teams can compete for professional athletes, but regulation cannot bind the two together in any kind of coherent union. The colleges themselves created this mess. Over decades, they have eroded their educational mission by engaging in the big business of subsidized athletics. The predictable result is professional sports programs indefensibly appended to institutions of higher education. There is a clear solution: offer no more athletic scholarships. Athletics has a legitimate place in collegiate life, but only within the traditional concept of the student athlete. Students should be encouraged to compete in athletics, and colleges should continue to provide academic and need-based scholarships. But colleges should issue no more athletic scholarships for athletes whose goal is to nab a lucrative professional contract. If pro teams want a development league, they can finance it, just like Major League Baseball. If athletes want to attend college while separately playing semipro, even better. While this prescription may sound extreme, it has happened before in college sports. Any number of colleges have either eliminated or de-emphasized subsidized athletics over the years. An instructive illustration is Washington & Lee University. In 1954, the university’s board of trustees, in response to a football academic cheating scandal, ended the subsidization of all athletes and left Division I sports. The action was taken less than three months after the scandal broke and after the football team had recently returned from the Gator Bowl. A heated outcry from some alumni followed the board’s decision, but the school defended the decision as crucial to protecting its academic integrity. Today, athletics is alive and well at Washington & Lee with more than a dozen varsity sports and one of the highest student athlete graduation rates among NCAA Division III schools. Most importantly, Washington & Lee’s stellar reputation remains intact. Despite predictions that alumni giving would plummet as a result, the school’s endowment currently totals $2.2 billion and at $978,000 per student is in the top 25 of American colleges. This crisis calls for congressional restraint — not action. Congress has far more important challenges now — e.g., the $40-trillion-plus federal debt. America’s colleges can solve this problem if only they will reaffirm their original mission as institutions of learning and research and rediscover the traditional concept of the student athlete. Garland S. Tucker III is retired chairman and CEO of Triangle Capital Corporation and an author.

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

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

business & economy Chinese automaker debate carries major stakes for North Carolina businesses The trade fight reaches from Washington, D.C., to Triad factories and dealership lots By Dan Reeves North State Journal RALEIGH — As President Donald Trump prepares to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington, D.C., this week, a debate over whether Chinese automakers should be allowed into the U.S. market carries unusually direct consequences for North Carolina. Six major automotive trade groups have urged the Trump administration to maintain restrictions that effectively keep Chinese automakers from selling or manufacturing connected vehicles in the United States. The groups, representing automakers, suppliers and dealers, argue Chinese companies benefiting from government support could threaten U.S. jobs, investment and national security. Trump has taken a different position on at least one part of the issue. Earlier this month, he said he would be open to Chinese companies building vehicles in American factories if those plants created U.S. jobs while opposing Chinese companies manufacturing vehicles in Mexico for export to the United States. The issue reaches directly into the Triad, where Toyota has invested $13.9 billion in its battery manufacturing complex in Liberty. The Randolph County plant, Toyota’s first battery facility in North America, plans to employ more than 5,100 people and ultimately operate 14 production lines for hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery-electric vehicles. About 25 miles away, Toyota of Greensboro offers another connection to the debate. The family-owned dealership opened on Battleground

Avenue in 1965 as one of Toyota’s earliest U.S. dealerships and is now led by third-generation dealer principal Mary Rice. Rice said comparisons between Toyota’s early days as a little-known Japanese automaker and the potential arrival of Chinese brands overlook an important distinction. “The biggest difference is the economic model behind the competition,” Rice said. Toyota’s roots were entrepreneurial, she said, growing out of the Toyoda family’s textile and loom business before Kiichiro Toyoda moved into automobile manufacturing. Chinese automakers, Rice said, operate with extensive government support extending through vehicle manufacturing and the supply chain. “I absolutely believe in competition,” Rice said. “But for competition to work, it has to occur on a reasonably level playing field.” The consumer question is more complicated. Chinese manufacturers have expanded rapidly outside the United States, often competing heavily on price. Allowing those companies into the American market could put pressure on established automakers to cut prices at a time when affordability remains one of the industry’s biggest challenges. Rice said lower prices would benefit buyers entering the market but could also have consequences for millions of people who already own vehicles. “Millions of Americans already have an enormous amount of their household wealth tied up in the vehicle sitting in their driveway,” Rice said. A sudden reset in new-car prices could push used-car values lower, she said, reducing trade-in equity and potentially leaving borrowers owing more than their vehicles are worth. “That wouldn’t affect everyone equally,” Rice said. “For a

COURTESY MARY RICE / TOYOTA OF GREENSBORO

Toyota of Greensboro on Battleground Avenue is one of the automaker’s earliest U.S. dealerships and sits about 25 miles from Toyota’s $13.9 billion battery plant in Randolph County.

“I absolutely believe in competition. But for competition to work, it has to occur on a reasonably level playing field.” Mary Rice, Toyota of Greensboro dealer principal working family that needs that vehicle to get to work, has a loan on it and depends on its trade value to purchase the next one, losing thousands of dollars of equity could be a very different experience.” Trump’s willingness to consider Chinese-owned factories in the United States raises another question: whether domestic production would address the concerns surrounding Chinese automakers. Rice said American assembly would bring jobs and investment but would not necessarily resolve questions involving subsidies and sourcing. “You still have to understand where the components come from, how much of that supply chain is government-supported

and whether an American manufacturer operating under market economics can realistically compete with it,” Rice said. Connected-car technology presents a separate issue. A U.S. Commerce Department rule finalized in 2025 prohibits, beginning with model-year 2027, the sale of certain connected vehicles by manufacturers sufficiently tied to China or Russia, including vehicles manufactured in the United States. Restrictions involving covered vehicle hardware are scheduled to begin with model-year 2030 vehicles. Federal officials have cited risks involving vehicle data and potential remote access to connected systems. Modern vehicles can contain cameras, microphones, GPS, internet connectivity and systems capable of collecting extensive information about drivers. “Putting an American address on the assembly plant doesn’t by itself answer those questions,” Rice said. She pointed to North Carolina’s military presence and critical infrastructure as reasons the data-security discussion carries particular significance in the state.

Federal Reserve rate hike reflects new world of sticky inflation, faster growth Americans are stressed with rising prices

“Ever-expanding pools of capital are pouring into AI-related infrastructure of all sorts.”

By Christopher Rugaber The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump has renewed his attacks on the Federal Reserve after it hiked its benchmark interest rate last Wednesday, but the Fed matters less than broader economic trends when it comes to longer-term borrowing costs, economists say. The economy is growing steadily despite being hit with repeated shocks — and may even be accelerating — while inflation remains stubbornly high. And big tech firms are borrowing huge amounts of cash to plow into data center construction while the federal government is still running large yearly budget deficits. All these trends point to higher interest rates regardless of what the Fed does, analysts say. As a result, the low interest-rate, low-inflation world that lasted for nearly 15 years after the Great Recession is over and a higher-priced, higher-rate world is taking its place. Mortgage rates fell into the 3% range in the 2010s and even lower during COVID-19, but such deals are long gone. The average 30-year mortgage rate reached 6.95% last week, the highest in more than a year and a half. Joe Brusuelas, chief econ-

Kevin Warsh, Federal Reserve chairman

MARK SCHIEFELBEIN / AP PHOTO

Federal Reserve Board Chairman Kevin Warsh speaks during a news conference at the Federal Reserve in Washington, Wednesday, Sept. 16, 2026. omist at RSM, a tax consulting firm, said that a big reason for the change is a shift from the pre-pandemic economy in which consumer and business demand was weak, to the current economy in which healthy consumer and business spending is colliding with supply shocks and bottlenecks. In addition to higher oil and gas prices because of the Iran war, the AI buildout has struggled with an insufficient supply of computer chips, electronic equipment and workers to put it all together. “We’ve undergone a structural transformation of the economy,” Brusuelas said. “The regime change in inflation and interest rates is the outcome.”

Companies, government competing for bonds The shift, in many ways, returns the economy to where it was before the financial crisis in December 2007 that lasted through June 2009. But even after the downturn ended, consumer and business spending remained weak. Millions of Americans in the 2010s focused on paying down outsized mortgages and credit card debt instead. Businesses saw few investment opportunities, and many big tech firms such as Alphabet’s Google and Meta’s Facebook piled up cash. Now those companies are using those stockpiles to build out AI data centers and are borrow-

ing even more money to do so. And American consumers — despite surveys finding they are pessimistic about the economy — are still spending at a healthy pace. A recent report showing that retail sales picked up last month led economists at Bank of America to forecast growth will reach a healthy 3% at an annual rate in the July-September quarter. Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh highlighted the shift in a speech at the central bank’s annual conference in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, last month. After 2008, “it was a widely held view that an excess of capital would sit on the sidelines for a long, long time, because there just wouldn’t be enough compelling investment opportunities,” Warsh said. “All the good stuff had been invented. So, growth would be low and slow. “Well, times sure have changed,” he continued. “Ever-expanding pools of capital are pouring into AI-related infrastructure of all sorts.” The additional spending and investment have contributed to

Meanwhile, consumers walking into her Greensboro dealership are focused largely on what vehicles cost to own. “They’re asking, ‘How do I get better gas mileage?’” Rice said. “We’re seeing tremendous interest in hybrids and plugin hybrids because customers want choices about how they use energy and how much they spend.” Buyers are considering car payments alongside insurance, groceries, housing and other expenses, she said, while manufacturers continue using financing, leasing and incentives to compete for customers. North Carolina’s dealership industry also has a significant stake in any market disruption. More than 600 dealerships operate statewide, supporting about 78,000 direct, indirect and induced jobs while generating $39.5 billion in sales, according to the North Carolina Automobile Dealers Association. But Rice said the stakes are particularly visible in the Triad after decades of efforts to land a major automotive manufacturing project. “We’ve spent 25 years in this region hoping to attract a transformational manufacturing investment like this, and now it’s here,” Rice said of Toyota’s Randolph County plant. “Those aren’t just numbers on an economic-development announcement. Those are careers, families, suppliers and economic activity that will ripple throughout the Triad for generations.” That investment, she said, makes the national debate over Chinese competition much less theoretical in North Carolina. “I’m all for competition and lower prices,” Rice said. “But a cheaper vehicle isn’t necessarily cheaper if the broader cost is lost household equity, unfair competition or compromised privacy and national security.”

higher longer-term interest rates on government bonds that are competing for lenders. The yield on the 10-year Treasury bond topped 5% this year for the first time since 2023, even before the Fed raised its benchmark shortterm rate Wednesday. At the same time, political polling and consumer sentiment surveys continue to find that many Americans are struggling to keep up with rising prices, and affordability remains a top concern heading into the midterm elections. Even as the economy expands, inflation has outpaced the annual growth in average wages for the past five months. Brusuelas said the U.S. economy’s expansion is “imbalanced” with growth “entirely dependent” on the AI buildout and strong spending by wealthier consumers, who have benefited from rising stock prices driven by hopes that AI will lift profits. Higher inflation leads to higher rates After the Fed lifted its rate to 3.9% last Wednesday, Trump said on Truth Social that U.S. rates should be 1% instead. Yet many of Trump’s policies have contributed to higher borrowing costs, in particular the Iran war that has driven up gas prices. When inflation persists, investors demand higher interest rates on longer-term Treasury bonds, such as the 10-year, which strongly influences mortgage rates. “The president can say he wants interest rates lower all he wants, and yet he continues to push the button on all the policies that raise rates,” said Elizabeth Pancotti, vice president of policy, advocacy and research at the progressive Groundwork Collaborative.

Innovative solutions to the student debt dilemma

orders thanks or state a majority of at Americans to take precautions, but worldwide pandemics can trace their source to the United States over to localThe crisisgovernments, has cost the U.S. taxpayer least $2.4 trillion in added are having to what is being called the “new normal.” questions our 231-year history. At least four in the 20th century alone can be to adjustdebt plus trillions more in Federal Reserve backup liquidity to the about the data Some these orders extend least through the of this month. are treated in so directly traced to China: 1957 “Asian flu,” 1968 “Hong Kong flu,” of 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 North State Journal forinThursday, September 24,Democratic 2026 WALTER E. WILLIAMS Here in North Carolina, Gov. Roy fear Cooper stated during question what the govern massive 1918 “Spanish flu” pandemic also had its origins China. measures without immediate of rampant inflation and currency 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 the completely China has to pay for their aberrant ways and decisions through Since when did Chernobyl. If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked as to the questions. And the longe unregulated and unsanitary wet markets. Some believe it came out of a economic and financial means. Diplomacy has obviously not worked I explained in two past articles that student debt is graduates but is only able to find low-paying work. questioning justification for it. And the answers should not be vague ones like “we country, and the stricter biowarfare lab run by the communist Chinese army. to bring China into the civilized world of 21st century health, hygiene Under an ISA agreement, he would owe an agreeda real problem and that universities have encouraged government must do this out of an abundance of caution.” the more people, sitting Until China adopts rigorous verifiable policing and regulation of and fair trade. Totalitarian communist regimes never take the blame upon percentage of his income — the actual dollar it through their own irresponsible behavior. With at uncertain all levelsfinancial It amount will to be in detail to theand people of this state who when would be very low. With a traditional loan, college facing an their foodnew safety andgraduates health protocols, American business has no need other orexplained express sincere regret remorse, because that is not whatthey can get back t he would the samejobless amount regardless hisThey future, so it’sredundant particularlymanufacturing important to find solutions are being toldowe to remain and at homeofdo. for an undetermined answers. choice than to build elsewhere purely totalitarian governments take advantage of every weakness become a plants income. 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 Leaders at the local an for national safety and delivery they find in adversaries and pushing until they win or the thing? loan, he would likely make interest-only payments as Some radical proposals, likebad completely can be with those answe reliabilityprivatizing concerns.student loans and making them subject are reliable. adversaries push back. the principal continued to mount. AMERICA’S COLLEGES are rife with That is what Toisdate, I’veUniversity gone along with what theexogenous state has askedhappens and then with details that give the The most direct wayprotection, to make China for work. this disaster to offer That is, unless an event such asThe the Chernobyl Purdue is already experimenting with to bankruptcy would “pay” certainly corruption. financial squeeze resultin Income Share free citizens mandated that we do, but along the way I’ve also had questions about We should all continue U.S. tax credits to companies who will source at least half of their meltdown in 1986. Some experts believe that event, not the Star Wars ISAs under its “Back a Boiler” plan. The program is Private lenders who put their own money on the line from COVID-19 offers opportunities for a The Raleigh girls’ school ingUnited a convention in Tokyo, Sponsored by Agreements the data. State Republican leaders have, too. ourselves, and our comm production back in the States. There is approximately $120 program of Reagan, led directly to the dissolution of the Soviet Union being funded by the Purdue Research Foundation, would do due diligence before lending to 18-yearbit of remediation. Let’s first examine wha living in a free looks abroad to grow which will provide an opporwhen 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 fearinvestment of students in filing for and Unfortunately, mightisbe the root academic corruption, billion worth of American plants equipment in 1989. are contractual were tunity for schoolssociety to introduce enrollment but is already showing positive results. wouldinvestment ensure that in 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.bankruptcy Chinese direct theare U.S. is about $65 program billion abynow Perhaps COVID-19 is China’s Chernobyl. their program tosupposed agents who agreements Purdue’s websitethe explains aand few of the benefits of can prudent. “Academic Grievance Studies and to theAme simply questioning data asking when we start getting back This is all new comparison. Senators in Washington are already talking about the possibility work with international stuISAs: But such a solution is politically unpopular. Corruption of Scholarship.” The study was which students to do, days last I investment to normal as though areforgiving conspiracy or debt are people who shape, An investment taxdents. creditItofwill 30% half of U.S. in China beon three of of they China $1.2theorists trillion in we owe them as one wayor toform. get So while By Elizabeth Lincicome The standard payment period for the Back It would considerably reduce the number of done by Areo, an opinion and analysis receive individual meetings andAmerican netFor North State Journal otherwise don’t care ifisthey themselves or itothers sick. same time we should today, orstudents $60 billion, applied 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 able to borrowtofor college and would digitalthe magazine. By the way, Areo is shor working with these agents.” Since when did questioning government at all levels become a bad normal.” investment to the U.S. would cost the U.S. Treasury $18 billion in breath waiting for a Chinese “Jubilee” to happen but ask your elected education competitive with most Federal Plus and private loan disproportionately affect low-income students. It for Areopagitica, a speech delivered by application process RALEIGH As thespread new overThe thing? ThatInisaddition, whatrepresentatives free ina asix-month free society were supposed Not one little bit. tax—revenue a few years.majoring $18 billion in lost is to hold China accountable in tangible financial ways for terms. all citizens studentsliving receive would also disfavor students in soft but revenue John Milton in defense of free speech. funding in school year kicks into high is similar to that for domestowe 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+ Marshall Plan are now this disaster. gear for students the tic students, with a few excepexchange for a across Once recipient makes successful for But that cannot be implemented — My Lindsay and Peter Boghossian say has that als first concern along inpayments all this, course, to is my family. Stacey Matthews undertaking tothere save are oursolutions own economy, defeated enemies asain the as Itwe is go about time they areof expected operate as I’m responsible citizens of tions. Interviews can beofconcountry, a prominent Raleigh the prescribed term of the contract, no and additional even in this acrimonious political climate. something has gone drastically wrong predetermined worried about them catching the virus, I’m worried I will. After and is a regular contribu past. the world like any other modern nation. boarding and day school is ducted by Zoom rather than payments even if(swine they have lessthe 2009 pandemic, The first solution has been referred to as “skin in suffering in academia, especially within certain fromare therequired H1N1 virus flu)paid during in personstealing, when necessary, China hasofbeen pirating and and pillaging American welcoming class stu- cheating, percent a new than the amount of funding they received. the game.” Such a policy would call for institutions fields within the humanities. They call who doThey not speak dents frombusiness throughout thethestudents I’ve been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings up now for past 30credit years. haveEnmade no secret that Boththey ISAs and skin in the game policies would to have a share in the risk of every student these fields “grievance studies,” where of postglish as athe first language must United States and abroad. RALEIGH way too many memories of a painful experience I’ d prefer not to repeat. intend towho replace the U.S. as premier superpower in the world and have many down-stream benefits. Both would put takes out a loan to attend the institution. In scholarship— isNorth not soCarolina’s much based upon graduation additional language-testEstablished in 1842 and lo- as meet unemployment rateupon edged But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has replace the dollar the reserve currency with their renminbi. pressure on universities to keep tuition low and practice, this means that universities would be on finding truth but attending to

Saint Mary’s School expands international recruitment efforts

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Fixing college n.c. corruption FAST

FACTS

North Carolina unemployment rate falls to 3.5% in August Approved Logos

cated just steps down- ing requirements. lower August as employers income over a from offset some of the artificial pressure on demand for the hook for some part of student loan debt when socialingrievances. Grievance scholars town, Saint Mary’s School is added jobs across several major and other higher education. They would also align universities’ students default. Such a policy would require action bully students, administrators certain number one of North Carolina’s old- International industries, eveninto as the number interests with those of students. Universities would by Congress since student loans are disbursed by the departments adhering tooftheir est schools for women and the applicants must: of years. people working slightly, be invested in student success, not just increased federal government. worldview. Thedeclined worldview they promote is oldest continuously operating according to new figures from theGrievance EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS enrollment. Some universities would probably begin But another solution can be implemented locally. neither scientific nor rigorous. school in Raleigh. The private, • Apply North Carolina of such as to offer better guidance to students when they choose A number of institutions are already giving it a studies consistDepartment of disciplines independent Episcopal boardCommerce. majors, choose classes and take out loans. try: Income Share Agreements sociology, anthropology, gender studies, • Provide an official(ISAs). schoolISAs are ing and day school prepares The state’s seasonally These innovative solutions will do what “Free contractual agreements queer studies, sexuality and critical race transcriptin which students receive girls in grades 9-12 for college COURTESY ST. MARY’S COMMUNICATIONS ANDuniversities MARKETING DEPARTMENT College” cannot: make students and education funding in exchange for a predetermined studies. unemployment rate adjusted and life beyond academics. • Complete a placement behave more wisely and act together towards the percent of post-graduation income over a certain In3.5% 2017 in and 2018,down authors Pluckrose, fell to August, One way the school is carrySmedes Hall at Saint Mary’s School in Raleigh provides assessment, such as the and number same goal. That goal is to create educated, wise number of years. The percent of income Lindsay and Boghossian started one-tenth of a percentage point ing out that mission is by enstudent housing and serves as a multipurpose central SSAT,based PSATupon or Saint Mary’s major of years can change a student’s and and productive graduates. Only with smart policies submitting bogus academic from July’s revised rate. The papers to rolling international students building used for receptions and musical performances. placement assessment that incentivize student success can we ensure that income potential. academic journals in cultural, national unemployment rate heldqueer, from around the world. colleges truly provide value for students, parents, ISAs are a good deal for students because they race, gender, fat and sexuality studies steady at 4.1%. As Saint Mary’s embarks on • If English is not their first taxpayers and society. are less risky than loans. Imagine a student who toNorth determine if they would pass peer Carolina’s Nonimmigrant Studentthe Staits 185th school year,MOST its ad-STATES language, TOEFL WITH undersubmit eitherashelter-in-place or stay-at-home fallen into place. I understand seriousness of the virus and the review and be accepted for need publication. unemployment rate remained tus, is issued by a school cermissions staff is recruiting stuiBT, IELTS or Duolingo score Acceptance of dubious research that orders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans to take precautions, but I’m uneasy with how people who simply ask “We cultivate leadership below the national rate by sixtified through the federal Students both within and outside and, if requested, a writing journal editors found sympathetic to their are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.” questions about the data, and when things can start getting back to tenths of a percentage point, dent and Exchange Visitor the United States. Admissions skills, empowering sample intersectional or postmodern leftist vision Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. normal are treated in some circles with contempt. widening from a four-tenths gap Program. It documents a stucounselors will travel to Dhahof the world would prove the problem of students to become • Submit teacher stay-at-home go into June. dent’s eligibility for F-1 ran, Saudi Virginia’s Arabia, and Totreated as though weorasM-1 a society simply2025. muststandards. accept without in August GUEST OPINION | JEFForders TARTE, FORMER NC STATE SENATOR They’re low academic recommendations from Roy Cooper confident, status and includes in-us aboutNorth kyo later this Here fall ininan effortCarolina, Carolina’s rate was thepapers North Democratic Gov. stated compassionate during questionstudent what the government tells when it’s safe to begin Several of the fake research a school official, with formation about the student’s to further adiversify the stualso down from 3.9% in August The Fat recent coronavirus press briefing that “we just don’t know yet” if the process of returning back to normalcy. leaders on a global stage.” were accepted for publication. additional recommendations program and works financial re- and we dent body. Students from more orders 2025, a decline of four-tenths a paper state’s stay-at-home will extend into May. No. The government for us, have the right to ask Studies journal publishedthose a of hoax Since when as requested by the sources. It is not itself a visa. thandid 17 countries, including Katie Bradbury Wellman, questions. percentage point over the year. that argued the term bodybuilding was If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked as to the And the longer stay-at-home orders are in place all over the “Once an internationUkraine, Spain, Kenya, Naadmissions counselor questioning Saintones Mary’s School The numberand of employed exclusionary should be replaced justification for it. And the answers should not be vague like “we country, and the stricter some of them get in states, such as Michigan, al student is enrolled at Saint mibia and Nigeria, currently North Carolinians fell by more with “fat bodybuilding, a fat-inclusive government • Complete a personal this out aof an abundance of caution.” the moreMary’s, people, at home feeling isolated and/or anxious as about wesitting issue them the I-20 attend the must school,dobringing than 3,000 in August to just over politicized performance.” One reviewer interviewin bydetail Zoomto or the on people of this state who at all levels as acan certified school by the Stu- for their It will need to be explained range of perspectives and culwhen they get back to providing families, will demand 5said, million and was down just over in place. Elderly persons with underlying conditions “I thoroughly enjoyed reading this AS A FORMER state senator, I have been asked campus to campus. tifest Week, a celebration of dent and Exchange Visitor are being told to remain at home the for stay-atan undetermined answers. become atural experiences 47,000 a year earlier. would be monitored by health teams for some time, article from and believe it has The an important many times what jobless I wouldand do regarding Program underand thestate DepartThe school’s internationits international communiamount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of cases Leaders atvirtual the local levels should be as forthcoming as they • Submit the application fee SAH leveraging telemedicine and hospitals. contribution to make to the field and this home order in North Carolina. The current number of unemployed residents bad thing? mentthose of Homeland Security,” al enrollment comes amid ty. Throughout the week,can stuare reliable. be with answers — and again, not vague answers, but answer Led by our major health system leaders and journal.”by just over 4,000 over order expires on April 29. declined heightened federal scrutiny of dents share their cultures Wellman said. “Once we proThat is what North Carolina Association, I would Struggle Is My Struggle: Solidarit Onegone state senatorwith recently said we are has going to and the date, I’ve state then withHospital details give the their statements the “Our month to just over 182,000 vide that the I-20, family is el- believability. student visas.To The State De- along through music, dance, tradi“At Saint what Mary’sthe School, our asked haveabout a master planWe with primary suppliers and a what we can Feminism as an Intersectional Reply to need towe know four things: whoway is sick, who ishad not,questions and dropped by nearly 22,500 free citizens mandated that do, but along the I’ve also should all continue to do to keep our families, partment said it revoked about international students come tional attire, food and art. The igible to book an appointment backup plan forourselves, manufacturers in N.C. to re-purpose Neoliberal and Choice Feminism,” was who has been sick and who has not.too. I agree. Public over the year. the data. State Republican leaders have, and our communities safe. But we should also still continue in 2025, together in a supportive and event includes workshops, per- at their embassy to be apliving in a8,000 free student visas health facilities to produce ventilators and PPE necessary accepted for publication experts are coalescing around benchmarks to Combined, thosestay-at-home figuresby Affilia, a proved forabout the F-1 part of moreUnfortunately, than 100,000when certain types of questions asked, there formances and is cultural showto ask questions thevisa.” data, because while reasonable inclusive environment, creat- get to take care of our own demands. An ongoing needs feminist journal for social workers. The follow before rules ease: sustained reductions in new society were indicate the state’s civilian labor Although internationvisa revocations cases highlighting backing global understanding and a disturbing among some people to treat those the measures also have an expiration As long assometimes a overall. assessment would evaluateare the understandable, re-purposing of they shouldforce paper consisted in more part of adate. rewritten cases and deaths,tendency widespread testing, ample hospital contracted by than supposed “We partner students make up about with several friendships grounds represented within that transcend simply questioning and we can start getting This isalall to Americans, normal. Not in any way,Two other hotels,back empty warehouses andnew university dorms and it is not passage from Mein Kampf. capacity andthe thedata ability to asking monitorwhen new patients and business could 7,000 people during August of So Saint Mary’s enrollrecruiting agencies we borders,” body. offi- or11% Wellman said. “Our orthe to do, last I to normalwhen as though they are conspiracy theorists arestudent people who School shape, form. while we should remainand vigilant and stay safe, at including as emergency field hospitals in conjunction with hoax papers were published, trace their contacts. by nearly 70,000 from a travel abroad. These groups dedicated staff provides tai- cials say the week is designed ment, school officials cite Rademonstrate 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.host fairs all over the world, so lored support to ensure that to deepen cross-cultural un- leigh’s location and amenities year earlier. The household Virtual hospitals and direct primary care options at Urban Dog Parks.” This paper’s subject as a foundation to makegovernment decisions to keep everyone the ability to Since when did questioning at all levels become a bad normal.” we generally look for the fairs international students thrive derstanding and strengthen as advantages in recruiting survey, which produces the would be made available through every health was dog-on-dog rape. But the dog rape safe.isWe are not going back to fullinnormal any timewere supposed thing? That citizens living a free society Not one little bit. follow students from overseas. The that willsound allow us the most what ac- free connections among students. academically, socially and perunemployment rate, measures paper eventually forced Boghossian, soon. We are not reopening everything tomorrow. We system. Ongoing testing would be implemented. cess to meeting prospecto do,with lastmust I checked. International students of- school’s 23-acre campus prosonally. We cultivate leaderpeople rather than jobs Covid-19 Rigorous statewide antibody testing would be Pluckrose and Lindsayand to prematurely out take care of our most vulnerable citizens, and vides a residential near tive families,” My saidfirst Katieconcern Brad- as ten isneed a FormI’m I-20 Stacey from Matthews ship skills, empowering stuwe go along all this, of course, my implemented family. has alsosetting written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah can move differently from the once available. themselves. A Wall Street Journal writer we must begin to reopen ourinbusinesses, now. hygiene, they downtown, with access to the bury Wellman, director of dents the Ischool before applying to the become confident, separate payroll survey. worried about them catching virus, and I’m worried will. After and is a regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection. In conjunction with other regional governors had figured out what they were doing. I am following a couple of data models — Fuller, enrollment management a student visa. The Form amenities of the state capital compassionate leaders on a thefor would be suffering At the same time, payrollfor publication fromand the H1N1 virusThe (swine flu)project during 2009 pandemic, and cooperation with the White House, I would Some papers accepted Holmes and the CDC. models N.C. cases financial aid at Saint Mary’s. global stage.” I-20, officially known as the and Raleigh-Durham Internaemployment continued to grow. training ensure N.C. receives a fair allocation of items such in academic journals advocated to peak between April 20 and May 5. I’ve been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings up allowed “This yeartowe are also attendThe school also hosts Mul- Certificate of Eligibility for tional Airport. Seasonally adjusted total astoventilators from national stores 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 not repeat. re-enter the nonfarm employment increasedslavery by can address college students for historical the also SAHmakes order past 29 without But what me April lose sleep is howcompelling easily most everyone has any peak scenario. There would be a by 10,000 jobsto insit August to nearly standing directive for rapid response to enable the asking them in silence on the floor in data showing its necessity. It is imperative to keep economy. use of FDA-approved drugs that are experimental in chains during class and to be expected to Covid-19 hygiene measures in place: such as social 5.13 million, according to the relation to a pandemic virus. learn from the discomfort. Other papers distancing, gathering limits, masks, hand washing, monthly establishment survey. As long as a business could demonstrate the ability celebrated morbid obesity as a healthy life etc. Leisure and hospitality stead argue in the complaint to follow sound Covid-19 hygiene, they would be choice and advocated treating privately The dates to lift and reduce or continue on-going services posted the largest that antitrust laws forbid them allowed to re-enter the economy. I would lean into conducted masturbation as a form of restrictions need to be determined using scientific monthly gain, adding 3,200 “AI will quickly spin out of from taking the “shortcut” of exercising a little common sense on what works and sexual violence against women. Typically, evidence. Suspending and, more concerning, jobs. Construction added agreeing to “substitute collec- human control and could what is appropriate. Restrictions could be lessened as academic journal editors send submitted violation of individual constitutional rights are 2,100 positions, followed by tive restraint for individual acthe four benchmarks indicate it is safe to do so. papers out to referees for review. In dangerous exercises regardless of reason. professional and business countability.” A competitive kill us all if we allow AI North Carolina needs to get back to work. recommending acceptance Our businesses are on life support. It is imperative services with 1,900, trade, for publication market allows for responsibility safety and protocol.” For the next 18 months, I would monitor data many reviewers gave these papers glowing to get them opened. 500,000 North Carolinians transportation and utilities with and genuine progress, the lawwhile reserving the right to return to stronger praise. have signed up for unemployment in the past three Nick Rowley, plaintiff’s attorney 1,700 and other services with suit argues. restrictions if necessary. I would put in place a Political scientist Zach Goldberg ran weeks. Data indicate N.C. will have 50% of its small “AI will quickly spin out of 1,500. special team of medical, data analytics and business certain grievance studies concepts throug businesses (revenue under $10M) qualifying for human control and could kill us Government employment leaders to provide insights and advice. The standard the Lexis/Nexis database, to see how often bankruptcy, if they stay closed through May 15. I all if we allow AI safety and pro- AI companies asking Congress, increased by 1,200 jobs, whileover the years. channels with DHHS and County Public Health they appeared in our press would begin opening businesses in less impacted tocol ... to be controlled by pri- the White House or any other manufacturing 200.in the usages Officials would continue. I would conduct briefings He found hugeadded increases counties today. vate self-serving agreements be- agency to develop AI regulation, with stakeholder groups of government, medical ofSeveral “white industries privilege,”moved “unconscious bias,” I would categorize N.C. citizens into four groups: tween the world’s most powerful nor are they against the comin“critical the opposite direction. and business leaders from across the state, including race theory” and “whiteness.” tested positive for Covid-19, hospitalized and in ‘for profit’ technology compa- panies asking for an antitrust Information fellto college federal, state, county and municipal folks (elected All of this isemployment being taught critical condition, immunocompromised and have nies,” said Nick Rowley, the lead exemption. by 700 jobs, financial activities and non-elected). I would share the collective and students, many of whom become primary not tested positive, and finally, healthy individuals But achieving that kind of attorney for the plaintiffs. declined by 600 school and private varying opinions from these groups with the public. and secondary teachers who then who have not tested positive. These groups need Representatives for An- collaboration with the federal education andour health services We need hyper transparency in this matter. indoctrinate young people. tailored plans on who and how we will care for them. thropic, OpenAI, Google and government could be an uphill Politicians get ridiculed all the time, except when doubt whether coronavirusWe need parameters and rules to protect the lostI500. Mining and the logging The plaintiffs are Hassabis each publicly respond- SpaceXAI did not immediate- battle. we need them to make monumental decisions. So I caused financial crunch will give college vulnerable. The highest at-risk residents, those in employment was unchanged. not against the President Donald Trump reed to Amodei’s proposals in ly respond to a request for comand university administrators, who are a nursing homes and prisons, would see tight rules stay ask each of you reading along — What would you do? Over the past year, North jected the calls for regulation on ment Saturday. agreement. companies asking for crossbreed between a parrot and jellyfish, Carolina added more than In his initial essay propos- social media. He has claimed But the lawsuit also alleges an antitrust exemption the guts andnonfarm backbone to The restore academi 65,600 total jobs. that the coordination began ing the slowdown, Amodei ac- that any efforts to limit the techrespectability. Far too often, they get much private sector accounted for to take shape months earlier. knowledged potential antitrust nology are part of a “conspiracy.” of theirofpolitical support while from campus 61,000 those positions, It points to a statement from challenges, writing that it would He called into question why the By Kaitlyn Huamani grievance people are members of the government addedwho 4,600. July 2026 that high-ranking be helpful for the U.S. govern- industry leaders would be callThe Associated Press faculty and diversity and multicultural Professional and business employees from several of the ment to mediate “or at least en- ing for regulation that, he says, administrative offices. services led year-over-year gains A NEW lawsuit claims An- leading AI labs signed that ac- able” these cross-lab discus- “if strongly implemented, will The best hope lies with boards of with more than 23,000 additional thropic, OpenAI, SpaceXAI knowledged the “intense com- sions. The government wouldn’t drive them into oblivion and trustees, though many serve as yes-men and Google made an illegal deal petitive pressure not to unilat- need to participate, he wrote, bankruptcy.” Trump said Satjobs. Construction increased for the university president. I think that a to slow the pace of their respec- erally slow” development. That but it would need to “issue a urday on social media that he by 17,500, leisure good startwhile would be toand find 1950s or 1960s statement called on the gov- narrow waiver for certain kinds is forming an AI task force and tive AI development. hospitality services added nearly catalogs. Look at the course offerings at will appoint an “AI czar,” but he The lawsuit, which was filed ernment to support a glob- of safety conversations.” 17,000. Private education and a time when college graduates knew how Letters addressed to the editor may be sent to letters@nsjonline.com or 3101 In response, Altman said on provided scant detail. last Friday in the U.S. District al effort to slow automated AI health services gained more than to read, write and compute, and make Industrial Suite 105. Raleigh, N.C. 27609. must be signed; the administration The Trump social Letters media that OpenAI wel- include development. Court for the Northern District Dr. 11,000 jobs. curricula. Another helpful them today’s has been vocal about wanting comes thelonger idea ofthan a “federal It number, is clear that an and agreement of California, argueswriter’s that thephone city state; and be no 300 words. Letters Manufacturing theconsideration tool would be to recorded give careful American AI labs to outpace framework that sets consistent among the chief rivals in AI that leading AI companies violated may be edited for style, length or clarity when necessary. Ideas for op-eds should largest annual decline, shedding to eliminating all classes/majors/minors antitrust laws when they agreed their progress “should be slow- safety requirements,” but said and excel against Chinese com8,900 jobs since August 2025. such as containing the word “studies,” be sent to opinion@nsjonline.com. to coordinate slowdown efforts, er than competition would oth- “we do not believe we need to petition. While several DemoInformation employment by studies. women, Asian, black or fell queer and that doing so would reduce erwise produce has an anticom- wait for an antitrust exemption cratic leaders and candidates I’d betwhile that by restoring the traditional 4,300, mining and logging the value consumers get for paid petitive effect on consumers,” or legislation to begin the work have called for sweeping action academic to colleges, they would declined bymission 100. on AI regulation, Republicans of providing this confidence.” the plaintiffs argue. AI subscriptions. put a serious dent into the COVID-19 The August report shows While the recent conversa- have largely mirrored Trump’s Lawyers representing four The coordination largebudget shortfall. payroll growth remained broad ly took place Sept. 12, the law- named plaintiffs, who pay for tions about pacing development position. across much of the economy, Sen. Josh Hawley, a Republisuit argues, when Anthropic subscriptions to ChatGPT, were spurred by increasing conWalter E. Williams is a professor of with construction, services CEO Dario Amodei published Claude, Grok or Gemini, are cerns about AI evading human can from Missouri, said in a reeconomics at George and hospitality helpingMason offset University. an essay urging industrywide bringing the lawsuit on behalf of control, several leaders in the cent Senate hearing that “there weakness in manufacturing and cooperation on decelerating a proposed nationwide class of AI space have long talked about is no world” in which he would information. advancements in favor of en- other paid subscribers to those developing a shared set of stan- agree to give “the most powerful County-level unemployment dards or otherwise coordinat- companies in the history of the hanced safety measures. That services. rates for August are scheduled to The plaintiffs don’t object to ing to ensure safety efforts re- world” an exemption from antisame day, OpenAI CEO Sam trust laws to collaborate, arguAltman, SpaceXAI CEO Elon the companies individually de- main paramount. be released Sept. 30. The plaintiffs in the lawsuit ing that they could collude toMusk and Google DeepMind’s ciding to slow their own progNSJ co-founder and chair Demis ress in favor of safety. They in- contend they are not against the gether and stifle competition.

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

Lawsuit alleges Anthropic, OpenAI, SpaceXAI, Google colluded to slow AI development

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Jones & Blount

Murphy to Manteo From the mountains to coast, NC’s tastiest treats

1 4 5 2

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North Carolina’s specialty-food industry is

getting statewide attention through the 2026 NC Specialty Foods Association Best in Taste Awards, which recognize artisan food producers for taste, innovation, ingredient quality and overall excellence. This year’s competition featured products across 11 categories, with entries evaluated through blind judging by culinary and industry professionals. The Grand Champion honor went to Big Spoon Roasters of Hillsborough for its Vanilla Latte Almond Butter. On the coast, Sweater Box Confections earned first place in Baked Goods for its Vanilla Bean Sea Salt Shortbread, with the company producing its cookies on the Outer Banks. In the Sandhills, CW Dressings of Fayetteville took the BBQ Sauce category with its Date Barbecue Sauce. Western North Carolina was represented by Tryon Mountain Farms of Mill Spring, whose Lime Basil Lemongrass Simple Syrup won the Beverages/ Beverage Mixes category. In Charlotte, Queen City Crunch earned the top spot in Snacks for its OG seasoned pretzels. Together, the winners showcase the geographic and culinary diversity of North Carolina’s specialty-food industry.

Dressings Best in Taste Awards 3. CW Date Barbecue Sauce TOP 5 WINNERS

KARL B. DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO

Fayetteville

North Carolina Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden) speaks Dec. 19, 2025, in Rocky Mount.

4. Tryon Mountain Farms

1. Big Spoon Roasters Vanilla Latte Almond Butter Hillsborough

2. Sweater Box Confections Vanilla Bean Sea Salt Shortbread Outer Banks

Lime Basil Lemongrass Simple Syrup Mill Spring

Berger sets up Select Committee on property tax reform

5. Queen City Crunch The OG seasoned pretzels Charlotte

The committee will look at ways to address “skyrocketing” property taxes

WEST

PIEDMONT

EAST

Bold Rock Cider team honors WNC’s two-year Helene recovery

Man charged with felony peeping at Charlotte Target

ALE investigation alleges underage alcohol use in crash

Mecklenburg County A 31-year-old man is facing felony charges after Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police said he followed several teenage girls and attempted to take inappropriate photos of them inside a Ballantyne Target store. Authorities said surveillance video showed the suspect, identified as Adem Tyler Shrader, positioning his cellphone underneath the skirt of a 17-year-old without her knowledge, as well as attempting to film three 15-year-olds in the girls’ clothing section. Police said Shrader continued following the girls toward the checkout area, where he was detained by store personnel and officers.

Nash County Five people are facing charges after an investigation into a crash earlier this month that injured several young people in Nash County, according to the North Carolina Alcohol Law Enforcement Division. ALE said the single-vehicle crash happened on Rose Loop Road in Nashville and believes alcohol to be a factor. Troopers said the vehicle crossed the center line, hit a ditch and overturned several times, ejecting two backseat passengers. ALE said no one in the vehicle was wearing a seat belt.

Henderson County Bold Rock Mills River is marking two years since Helene with a special event Saturday, honoring local heroes and first responders. For every pint sold during the event, $1 will be donated to Henderson County Heroes Inc., a nonprofit organization that supports public safety organizations in Henderson County. Organizers say the event will feature live music throughout the day, with events featuring some of the heroes the nonprofit supports, including firefighters, law enforcement officers and other first responders in the area. WLOS

Woman faces murder charges after domestic shooting McDowell County An Old Fort woman faces a felony murder charge following a fatal domestic shooting that left Jerome Ward, 41, dead at a home on Lackey Town Road Friday afternoon. Jessica Martin Blackburn, 49, of Old Fort, was arrested in connection with the death. Deputies from the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call last week after a relative reported that someone had been shot. Upon arrival, deputies found Ward suffering from at least one gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene a short time later. WNC NEWS

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Unused food from golf tournament distributed across sites in WNC Buncombe County More than four tons of food from the Biltmore Championship Asheville will provide about 8,000 meals for people across western North Carolina instead of going to waste. Food Connection, an Asheville-based nonprofit that has been around for 11 years, was selected as the official food rescue partner for the PGA Tour event. The organization rescued more than 8,000 pounds of prepared food and ingredients that were not served during the tournament. The food is being distributed to people in Buncombe and Henderson counties, including through Food Connection’s free food truck. Food Connection works with restaurants, caterers and events to rescue food that is still safe to eat but would otherwise be thrown away. The nonprofit distributes free meals every week at locations across the mountains. NSJ

NSJ

Woman crashes into Marshalls storefront in Winston-Salem Forsyth County A woman crashed through the front two doors of the Oak Summit Shopping Center Marshalls in Winston-Salem on Saturday afternoon. The store, located at 344 East Hanes Mill Road, sustained damage to the front doors as they caved in from the impact, and most of the windows at the entrance were either damaged or shattered, with glass scattered all across the entire front of the building. The store is closed until further notice, and there were no injuries reported. WXII

Investigation alleges illegal operations at Guilford County cemetery Guilford County State and local officials are investigating Piedmont Cemetery in Guilford County. Families with loved ones buried there have raised concerns about the cemetery, including a lack of maintenance and clear grave markers. The cemetery was once covered in waist-high grass, with many graves completely obscured. Families told local outlets they had to personally mow and clean their loved ones’ graves, while others were unable to find their loved ones’ graves at all due to the lack of clear grave markers or a burial plot map at the property. Earlier this month, the North Carolina Cemetery Commission issued a cease-and-desist letter to Piedmont Cemetery’s private owners, National Vault Services, Inc., alleging potential illegal operations, writing, “We believe that National Vault Services may be operating the Piedmont Cemetery illegally.” The North Carolina Cemetery Act requires businesses operating cemeteries to obtain a license from the commission, however, the commission has no record of a license, according to the letter. WFMY

WCTI

Shuttle offers public transportation across ENC counties Craven County A new shuttle program will help people across eastern North Carolina to Greenville. The Craven Area Rural Transit System is working with two other transit services to provide public transportation via the Greenville Express pilot program. It will serve Carteret, Craven, Jones, Onslow and Pamlico counties. A news release said the program will start with rides on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. The pilot program is a collaborative effort between CARTS, Onslow United Transit Services and Carteret County Area Transit Service. NSJ

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

Paper company named in federal lawsuit alleging environmental damages Martin County The feds and state are suing Domtar Paper Company, LLC, alleging releases of hazardous substances injured natural resources. Filed last week, the state Department of Environmental Quality alleges that Domtar is liable for damages from the loss of natural resources, including the costs of assessing the damage. The complaint alleges that Weyerhaeuser Company, a predecessor to Domtar, disposed of untreated waste containing dioxins, furans and mercury, the suit says. The contaminants, including dioxin, were identified in fish tissue in Welch Creek, the lower Roanoke River and the western portion of Albemarle Sound. Last December, state officials issued a modified air quality permit to the company to increase the amount of annual green logs processed at its woodyard. Domtar was required to implement best practices due to increased emissions of volatile organic compounds, according to a press release. NSJ

RALEIGH — While he is not returning to the General Assembly next year following his primary defeat, Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden) is still at work, establishing a new property tax committee. Berger announced a new Senate Select Committee on Property Tax Reform last Thursday that will, according to a press release, “evaluate proposals to address growing concerns about skyrocketing property tax bills and opaque decision-making by local elected officials.” “The General Assembly passed several measures to address concerns about rising property taxes during the short session, but there is more to do for long-term relief,” Berger said. “This committee will provide valuable insight and feedback as we rein in local policies that drive up property tax rates and consider proposals to ease the tax burden for all North Carolinians.” The committee will be co-chaired by Sens. Lisa Barnes (R-Nash), Tom McInnis (R-Moore) and Buck Newton (R-Wilson). The committee members are 12 Republicans: Ted Alexander (R-Cleveland), Bob Brinson (R-Craven), Jim Burgin (R-Harnett), Kevin Corbin (R-Macon), Dave Craven (R-Randolph), Carl Ford (R-Rowan), Brent Jackson (R-Sampson), Steve Jarvis (R-Davidson), Michael Lazzara (R-Onslow), Tim Moffitt (R-Henderson), Benton Sawrey (R-Johnston) and Eddie Settle (R-Wilkes). There are five Democrats on the committee: Dan Blue (D-Wake), Jay Chaudhuri (D-Wake), Julie Mayfield

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“The General Assembly passed several measures to address concerns about rising property taxes during the short session, but there is more to do for long-term relief.” Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden) (D-Buncombe), Gladys Robinson (D-Guilford) and Caleb Theodros (D-Mecklenburg). The press release cites a constitutional amendment limiting property tax increases that will be on the ballot this November, along with a poll showing more than 80% support for the measure. The bill containing that amendment is House Bill 1089, which passed both chambers along party lines. A second constitutional amendment appearing on the ballot this fall, Senate Bill 1080, would amend the state constitution barring the state’s maximum tax rate from “exceeding three and a half percent.” The release also mentions Senate Bill 992, which was passed by the Senate and calls for local governments to be transparent when they seek to raise tax rates above revenue neutral. Berger also spearheaded a bill, Senate Bill 889, placing a one-year moratorium on county property tax reappraisals, which was signed into law by Gov. Josh Stein on June 19. The following month, on July 7, Stein also signed a bill that adjusted provisions in Senate Bill 889. The new committee follows a group of lawmakers selected in early February by Berger to examine property tax issues. In December 2025, House Speaker Destin Hall (R-Granite Falls) created a House Select Committee to study the same issue.

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

NATION & WORLD

House Judiciary Subcommittee field hearing in Charlotte focuses on healthcare Topics included fraud, hospital monopolies, rural access and certificate-of-need laws By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — The House Judiciary Subcommittee on the Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust held a field hearing last week in Charlotte. The topic of the hearing was “Examining Healthcare Markets: Fraud and Competition.” Chairman Scott Fitzgerald (R-Wis.) led the session, examining mergers, certificate-of-need (CON) laws, as well as fraudulent insurance practices and their effects on access and affordability. Three North Carolina Republicans — Reps. Chuck Edwards, Mark Harris and Tim Moore — took part in the hearing, along with Reps. Russell Fry (R-S.C.), Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.) and Robert Onder (R-Mo.). Witnesses included Brian Blase, president of Paragon Health Institute; Dr. Brian Miller, associate professor of medicine at Johns Hopkins University and vice chair of the North Carolina State Health Plan, testifying in his personal capacity; and Katherine Martin, vice president of health affairs for the University of North Carolina System. “I think we can all agree that there is something wrong with the American healthcare system,” Fitzgerald said in opening the hearing, adding that prices are high in part because of “the design of and rampant fraud occurring in the Obamacare insurance system.” Blase testified that Paragon estimated 14.3 million people were improperly enrolled in Affordable Care Act (ACA) exchanges or Medicaid expansion in 2024. That is about one-third of total enrollment in those expansions, with federal costs of approximately $65 billion that year.

COURTESY HOUSE JUDICIARY GOP / YOUTUBE

U.S. Rep. Mark Harris (R-N.C.) speaks during a House Judiciary Subcommittee field hearing held in Charlotte on healthcare fraud and competition. Improper enrollment included people unaware of their enrollment, duplicate coverage and people who didn’t meet income requirements, according to Blase. “Fraud flourishes when government programs combine enormous subsidies with weak verification and incentives to maximize federal payments,” Blase said. “This is exactly what happened in the ACA exchanges.” Blase said pandemic-era subsidies covering the full premium created incentives for insurers and brokers. He said 35% of exchange enrollees and 40% of fully subsidized enrollees didn’t use their plan once in 2024, with taxpayers likely sending insurers more than $35 billion for unused coverage. On Medicaid, Blase said the federal government contributes about $1.33 for every state dollar spent on traditional populations and $9 for every state dollar on the expansion population. Paragon estimated 9.2 million expansion enrollees, roughly 46% of that population, were likely ineligible in 2024, according to Blase. The company recommended more frequent eligibility checks, a minimum

premium such as $25 a month on exchange plans, aggressive federal audits and equalizing federal match rates across Medicaid populations. North Carolina Medicaid spending has nearly doubled in four years, climbing from $21.6 billion to a record $41.6 billion — a jump analysts say is driven largely by the 2023 expansion by the legislature that added more than 730,000 people to the rolls. The expansion was a priority for former Gov. Roy Cooper throughout his two terms. Blase described Medicaid provider taxes as an accounting gimmick that allows states to invoice the federal government, calling the arrangements “legalized money laundering.” Hageman said fraud in healthcare carries disproportionate consequences. “Every healthcare dollar lost to fraud is one that could have been spent to the benefit of American citizens,” Hageman said, “whether by supporting direct access to care, researching diagnostics and treatments for life-threatening conditions, or acquiring new medical technologies.” Blase told Hageman that Par-

NCDOT TO HOLD PUBLIC MEETING REGARDING PROPOSED POOLE ROAD IMPROVEMENTS FROM WEST OF BARWELL ROAD TO HODGE ROAD IN WAKE COUNTY

STIP Project HL-0133L and HL-0133A WAKE COUNTY - The public is invited to a meeting with the N.C. Department of Transportation this month to discuss the proposed widening of Poole Road from Barwell Road to Hodge Road in Wake County. The proposed improvements — State Transportation Improvement Program project Nos. HL-0133L and HL-0133A — would expand Poole Road from two lanes to four lanes and LQFOXGH D FHQWHU PHGLDQ WR VHSDUDWH WUDI¿F WUDYHOLQJ LQ RSSRVLWH GLUHFWLRQV ,W¶V LQWHQGHG to address ongoing growth and increasing travel demand throughout the corridor E\ UHGXFLQJ IXWXUH WUDI¿F FRQJHVWLRQ LPSURYLQJ URDGZD\ RSHUDWLRQV DQG VXSSRUWLQJ anticipated development. 0RUH GHWDLOV LQFOXGLQJ PDSV RI WKH SURSRVHG GHVLJQ FDQ EH IRXQG RQ WKH SURMHFW ZHEVLWH The meeting will be held 5-7 p.m. Sept. 28 at the Barwell Road Community Center, 5857 Barwell Park Drive LQ Raleigh. Interested residents can drop in any time during WKRVH KRXUV WR OHDUQ PRUH DERXW WKH SURSRVDO DVN TXHVWLRQV DQG VSHDN ZLWK 1&'27 representatives. There will not be a formal presentation. 3HRSOH PD\ DOVR VXEPLW FRPPHQWV E\ SKRQH HPDLO RU PDLO E\ Oct. 12. )RU PRUH LQIRUPDWLRQ FRQWDFW NCDOT Division 5 Project Delivery Staff Engineer S. Reid Davidson at 919 317-4700; srdavidson@ncdot.gov; or 2612 N. Duke St. in Durham. 1&'27 ZLOO SURYLGH DX[LOLDU\ DLGV DQG VHUYLFHV XQGHU WKH $PHULFDQV ZLWK 'LVDELOLWLHV $FW IRU GLVDEOHG SHRSOH ZKR ZLVK WR SDUWLFLSDWH LQ WKLV ZRUNVKRS $Q\RQH UHTXLULQJ VSHFLDO services should contact Aleksandra Djurkovic, Environmental Analysis Unit, at 1598 Mail Service Center in Raleigh; 919-707-6024; or andjurkovic@ncdot.gov as early as possible so that arrangements can be made. 7KRVH ZKR GR QRW VSHDN (QJOLVK RU KDYH D OLPLWHG DYDLODELOLW\ WR UHDG VSHDN RU XQGHUVWDQG (QJOLVK PD\ UHFHLYH LQWHUSUHWLYH VHUYLFHV XSRQ UHTXHVW SULRU WR WKH PHHWLQJ E\ calling 1-800-481-6494.

$TXHOODV SHUVRQDV QR KDEODQ LQJOpV R WLHQHQ OLPLWDFLRQHV SDUD OHHU KDEODU R HQWHQGHU LQJOpV SRGUtDQ UHFLELU VHUYLFLRV de interpretación si los solicitan antes de la reunión llamando al 1-800-481-6494.

agon estimated improper Medicaid payments exceeded $1 trillion over the past decade. Fry asked Blase to distinguish traditional Medicaid recipients, with an average federal share of about 57%, from the expansion population of able-bodied, working-age adults, with a 90% federal match. Fry then asked whether that structure was “really backwards.” Blase replied it was “federal discrimination against the most vulnerable.” Miller said hospital consolidation is “bad for consumers, taxpayers and employers.” He cited more than 2,000 mergers in 25 years and said nearly four-fifths of physicians work for hospitals or corporations. Miller said mergers raise prices without clear quality gains by 7% to 9%, and out-of-state mergers by as much as 17%. He also noted consolidation suppresses nurse wages through monopoly power. Miller cited policies encouraging consolidation, which included lack of site-neutral Medicare payment, CON laws, Stark Law limits on physician ownership/self-referral and limiting of new physician-owned hospitals. “Personally, I’d rather ask the radiologist or the surgeon if we need another MRI machine,” Miller said, referring to CON laws and other restrictions. Edwards described HCA’s 2019 acquisition of Mission Health in his district. The acquisition was the subject of an antitrust lawsuit that was settled in 2025. “I think that the concerns that folks have about Mission would probably be a lot smaller if, say, we could go build a hospital pretty easily,” Edwards said. “We can’t because of certificate of need.” After Fitzgerald noted the North Carolina Healthcare Association’s warning that repealing the state’s CON law would raise costs, Miller said, “I think we have 25 years of solid economic research that shows that

certificate of need, when in place, raises costs, restricts access and reduces quality.” “There’s no reason for you to have to seek state permission to build a healthcare facility,” Miller added. “Just on the face of it, it defies common sense.” Onder also commented on hospital consolidation. “I would submit to you the consolidation we’ve seen the last 20 years is not someone building a better mousetrap,” Onder said. “It is the direct result of government policies like we’ve been talking about here today.” Martin described Western Carolina University’s nurse-led CATalyst Clinic in Haywood County and $91 million in flexible state funds for rural training of physicians, pharmacists, dentists, nurses and others. She said fewer than 3% of physicians practice in remote areas, with 12,500 nurse vacancies forecast over the next decade. “We know that doctors are two to five times more likely to practice where they train,” Martin said. “It follows then that if we need care in rural areas, then we need to establish residencies in the small towns and remote regions where we want physicians to settle and stay.” Martin said state funds use a more flexible rural definition than federal Graduate Medical Education rules, which send most dollars to large urban centers and require 50% of training time in a federally defined rural county. Harris noted a $40 million nursing appropriation and 12 UNC nursing schools on pace for a 60% increase in net new nurses by 2029-30. Moore asked about pharmacy benefit managers, with Blase indicating consolidation drives price increases and rebate structures can favor higher-cost drugs. He recommended repealing the Affordable Care Act medical-loss ratio and expanding price transparency. The full field hearing can be viewed at tinyurl.com/ nsj-atriumshp.

Attorney says prosecutors haven’t offered teen’s ties to mosque shooters By Allen G. Breed The Associated Press WINSTON-SALEM — The attorney for a North Carolina girl accused of helping two teens who carried out a deadly attack on a San Diego mosque says prosecutors haven’t provided enough information to allow him to defend his client. Sarah Santiago, 17, is charged as an adult with three counts of murder by aiding and abetting and one count of conspiracy. Prosecutors say she helped California teens Cain Clark and Caleb Vazquez, who shot and killed three people at the Islamic Center of San Diego on May 18 before killing themselves. Prosecutors in North Carolina allege Santiago agreed in advance to record and distribute a livestream of the attack made by the shooters and to disseminate their white-supremacist writings. She is also accused of buying a patch bearing a white-supremacist symbol and sending it to one of the gunmen to wear during the attack. But prosecutors have yet to provide information about how or on what dates Santiago allegedly communicated with the shooters, or give details about the alleged agreement to record and disseminate the livestream, her attorney, Alan Doorasamy, said during a

court hearing Monday. Doorasamy filed a formal request for the information — known as a “bill of particulars” — on Friday, and the judge scheduled a hearing Wednesday on the motion. The motion does not seek to force the prosecutor’s office to turn over actual evidence, but rather to provide more information clarifying the allegations against Santiago. Prosecutors have not yet responded to Doorasamy’s request. The Forsyth County District Attorney’s Office did not immediately return a call seeking comment Monday. “She needs to know why she was arrested,” Doorasamy told The Associated Press in comments outside the courthouse Monday. “She’s a child. Of course she’s very scared and she’s worried, but she’s done nothing wrong.” Santiago was arrested late last month and is being held without bail. Under North Carolina law, the aiding-and-abetting charges — in the event of a conviction — carry the same penalties as if the defendant had committed the attack. Clark, 17, and Vazquez, 18, stormed the Islamic Center on May 18 before being driven back outside by a security guard who exchanged gunfire with them as he initiated a lockdown, helping to protect 140 children just steps away.

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

features ‘Resident Evil’ tops box office with franchise best debut of $60M “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” earned $6.5 million By Lindsey Bahr The Associated Press ZACH CREGGER’S “Resident Evil” gave the North American box office a shot in the arm in its first weekend in theaters. The Sony Pictures release earned $60 million in ticket sales from 3,684 locations in the U.S. and Canada, according to studio estimates Sunday. That’s a best for the video game-inspired franchise, of which there have been seven prior movies dating back to 2002, and for the filmmaker behind “Weapons” and “Barbarian.” It’s also more than most of the previous films made in their entire domestic runs. The only exception is “Resident Evil: Afterlife,” which was released in 2010 and netted out with $60.1 million, not accounting for inflation. Cregger’s “Resident Evil” stars Austin Abrams (who also played a pivotal role in “Weapons”) as a medical courier whose last job of the night finds him battling infected creatures in Raccoon City. Reviews were overwhelmingly positive; it cur-

SONY PICTURES VIA AP

Austin Abrams stars in “Resident Evil.” rently boasts a 95% on Rotten Tomatoes. The audience was primarily male (66%) and under 35 (75%), according to PostTrak exit polls, and gave it a B+ CinemaScore. Cregger’s previous films have defied a lot of box office logic when it comes to horror movies, whose earnings tend to be front-loaded and drop sharply after the first weekend. “Barbarian” grossed over $46 million on a budget under $5 million. “Weapons” made $270 mil-

lion on a $38 million budget. “Zach Cregger is a household name in the world of horror,” said Paul Dergarabedian, the head of marketplace trends for Rentrak. “There are certain directors who become the star of the movie.” “Resident Evil” cost a reported $75 million to produce, which does not include marketing and promotion expenses. Internationally, it earned $48.3 million, bringing its global launch to $108.3 million.

“Zach Cregger plus big franchise equals big bucks,” Dergarabedian said. “And he made it feel fresh and new.” According to Rentrak, horror movies this year, including hits like “Obsession” and “Backrooms,” have generated over $1.1 billion at the domestic box office. Second place went to “Practical Magic 2,” which fell about 59% from its lackluster opening weekend with $12.2 million from 4,163 theaters in North America. An additional $7 million from international showings brings its running global total to $76.8 million. “Spider-Man: Brand New Day” landed in third place with $6.5 million in its eighth weekend, pushing its domestic total to $944.5 million. “The Odyssey,” in its 10th weekend in theaters, added another $4.9 million to take fourth place. “Coyote vs. Acme” rounded out the top five with $4.5 million. One notable limited release was “The History of Concrete,” a documentary from comedian John Wilson, which earned $90,000 from one screen (the IFC Center in New York). The only film to make more in a

“Zach Cregger plus big franchise equals big bucks.” Paul Dergarabedian, Rentrak single weekend at that venue was “Parasite,” which made $119,407. Top 10 movies by domestic box office This list factors in the estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Rentrak: 1. “Resident Evil,” $60 million 2. “Practical Magic 2,” $12.2 million 3. “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” $6.5 million 4. “The Odyssey,” $4.9 million 5. “Coyote vs. Acme,” $4.5 million 6. “Runner,” $3.2 million 7. “Daniel and the Fiery Furnace,” $3.1 million 8. “Transformers: The Movie” (40th anniversary rerelease), $3.1 million 9. “The Weight,” $2.3 million 10. “Buddy,” $1.9 million

Can ‘A Different World’ sequel change lives like original? Hillman is back in session By Jonathan Landrum Jr. The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — Netflix’s new “A Different World” arrives with a burden few television comedies have to carry: The original entertained millions while helping some viewers decide where they went to college, what careers to pursue and even how they saw themselves. Kadeem Hardison still hears about that impact nearly four decades later. “I’m learning that every day still,” said Hardison, who played the mathematically gifted, flip-shade-wearing Dwayne Wayne. He said people would approach him, saying they went to college because of the show, became engineers because of him or even gained the confidence to pursue relationships after watching Dwayne and Whitley Gilbert’s famously winding romance. Now a new generation is discovering Hillman College, including some of the original actors bringing it back to life. The 10-episode sequel series premieres Thursday on Netflix. Cornell Young IV, one of six young stars leading the series, played college football in Missouri and said his own college decision was largely driven by which schools recruited him. But after filming the series at historically black colleges and universities — Clark Atlanta, Spelman College and Morehouse — in Atlanta, Young found himself reconsidering the path he took. “I wish I would have been more like, ‘Yo, here go my tape. Like, I’m trying to come here,’” said Young, who plays Shaquille Johnson, the son of original character Ron Johnson. The sequel follows Deborah Wayne (Maleah Joi Moon), the youngest daughter of Dwayne and Whitley, as she begins her freshman year at Hillman. The new class also includes Rashida Duvall (Alijah Kai), Amir Rodale (Jordan Aaron Hall), Hazel Henry (Kennedi Reece) and Kojo Achebe (Chibuikem Uche). The Hillman effect The original “A Different World,” a spinoff of “The Cosby

NETFLIX VIA AP

Jasmine Guy, left, and Kadeem Hardison return for the reboot to “A Different World.” Show,” premiered in 1987 and ran for six seasons. Set at the fictional Hillman College, the series introduced many viewers to HBCU life while tackling subjects ranging from apartheid and HIV/AIDS to racism and sexual assault. The sequel’s creator and showrunner, Felicia Pride, grew up among the viewers the original series reached. She remembers watching it with her family Thursday nights and becoming captivated by a step-show episode. As a young dancer who had never seen stepping, she recorded it on a VCR and repeatedly played it back until she learned the routine. “That changed something in me, being able to see myself on screen,” Pride said. Nearly 40 years later, she wants to create the possibility of that kind of recognition for someone else. She wants the new Hillman to speak just as directly to the generation entering college now.

“Let the kids cook.” Kadeem Hardison The sequel takes on social media and the pressures of living digitally, along with isolation, immigration, campus safety, sexual orientation and sexual health. Pride said conversations with young people repeatedly revealed how technology can leave them feeling connected and disconnected at the same time. “The timing was so perfect now for the show to come back to be a connecting force for us,” Pride said. Creating their own “Different World” The new cast is less interested in recreating the old Hillman than making this one recognizable to their generation. For Moon, that starts with

Deborah. She studied what she called the “beautiful flaws” of Dwayne and Whitley but resisted simply blending their personalities together. “These are big shoes to fill,” Moon said. She wanted Deborah to stand on her own — an original character whose flaws, impulses and experiences reflect what it means to be a young black woman coming of age now. For Reece, that includes the constant comparison fostered by social media. She said young women are growing up with greater pressure around appearance because images of other people, and opportunities to measure themselves against them, are always within reach. Can the new Hillman create its own legacy? Hardison knows the new cast will be measured against the one that came before. He thinks that misses the point. “Let the kids cook,” he said. Hardison stressed that the new “A Different World” is a se-

quel, not a reboot. He likened comparing the two casts to comparing Michael Jordan and LeBron James — different generations playing under different circumstances. For all the reverence surrounding the original today, Hardison remembers that it took time to become the show people now celebrate. “Our first season was trash, yo,” Hardison said with a laugh. “Let the kids have some time and give them some grace.” That may be harder to come by in today’s television business. The original had more than 20 episodes in most seasons and years to develop its characters. The new series has 10 episodes to establish itself in an entertainment landscape where streaming services, social media, YouTube and other platforms are constantly competing for attention. “We have to do well out the gate,” Pride said. “The times that we’re in are much more unforgiving.”

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

NBC’s ‘Line of Fire’ combines procedural TV show with soap opera Jenna Bush Hager serves as an executive producer

when we do set aside time,” says Safran. “If you’re out with your partner, or you’re out with friends, the conversation really often tends to center around work because we’ve lost the art of going out and seeing where the night takes you or where the day takes you.” Each week will have its own case — pulling in two or more family members — while there are also long-term arcs, like questions around an old assassination attempt on the president and which killer is leaving little origami cranes at crime scenes. By the end of the first show, a deadly conspiracy is revealed that will echo throughout the series.

By Mark Kennedy The Associated Press NEW YORK — If you like crime procedurals, TV creator Joshua Safran suggests you catch the new NBC show “Line of Fire.” If you’re more of a soap opera person, Safran urges you watch the new NBC show “Line of Fire.” The hybrid series features a family of law enforcement officers — one an FBI agent, one a U.S. marshal, two in the Secret Service and one in the Department of Justice — whose work and home life overlap dramatically. It sounds like what you get when “Quantico” is mixed with “Gossip Girl,” and that’s not too far from what Safran has concocted. He worked on both those series and has channeled them into a heady network mix. Plus, he’s added a little French farce. “You’re going to watch a case unfold every week by very capable people who are in an area or areas of law enforcement that you may have seen before, but you’re also going to go home with them and see how they take that work home with them, how it impacts their family life, how it impacts their relationships,” he says.

SPENCER PAZER / NBC VIA AP

Hope Davis appears in a scene from “Line of Fire.” Who stars and how does it work? “Line of Fire,” which debuted Monday, stars Peter Krause and Hope Davis as the on-again, off-again couple at the heart of the high-achieving, slightly dysfunctional Hollingsworth family. The fundamentals are not dissimilar to CBS’s long-running series “Blue Bloods,” about a multigenerational family of New York City cops and their assistant district attorney sister. But while the fictional Rea-

gan family would do seemingly anything for one another, one of the Hollingsworth family’s three children describes them as “a family full of people who will stop at nothing to protect literal strangers but are unable to stop hurting each other.” An early scene in the pilot episode shows mom demanding that her daughter introduce the family to her new boyfriend — while both women stand over a fresh crime scene with two corpses. “I think it’s really hard these days to set boundaries, even

Peter Krause, Jenna Bush Hager After his beloved fire captain Bobby Nash was killed last year in a shocking twist on ABC’s “9-1-1,” Krause was lured back to the small screen by Safran’s scripts. The “Parenthood,” “Sports Night” and “Six Feet Under” alum says he wasn’t thinking about doing another network show but, as his credits suggest, he enjoys being part of a TV family. This time, there was a lot of family intrigue. “The fun of it for me is the concealment, that within their jobs they have to conceal things from each other and some-

In ‘Heart of the Beast,’ Pitt, dog try to survive in wild

times they don’t,” says Krause. “Sometimes they’ll cross a line to share information with each other, which is fun.” The cast also includes Kat Cunning, Tommy O’Brien and Taylor Bloom as the three Hollingsworth children. Guest stars include Sam Waterston, Campbell Scott and Chris Chalk. Safran says that while he was writing the family dynamic, he was inspired by the song “Stay” by Samantha Barks, with the lyric “Don’t come too close and don’t go too far.” One of the show’s champions is someone who spent a lot of time under Secret Service protection — Jenna Bush Hager, co-host of “Today” and daughter of former President George W. Bush. Hager is an executive producer. “She’s really been an invaluable resource. She’s talked to the writers, she’s come to set,” says Safran. “She’s just so positive and her energy is so infectious and great.” Hager helped Safran pick what became “Line of Fire” from a number of ideas he was kicking around. He says he’s always been interested in procedurals but forever wondered about the characters’ nonwork life. Safran also gets to explore ways the work-life divide can get messed up, like how the Hollingsworth’s mother is someone who is suspicious of everyone — good for tracking down fugitives — but that isn’t very helpful when meeting her kids’ new friends. “It goes both ways,” he says. “We bring home to work, but we bring work to home in the worst ways, too.”

BRAD PITT loves a lone wolf character. Even in ensembles, he’s often the quiet one just to the left (but, you know, still the focus). The guy who sees everything and says little, drawing people, when there are any, into his orbit with sheer charisma. Small talk is for the strivers, not the stars, maybe? He’s already done the space thing and the car thing. It was only a matter of time before this whittling away of excess would find him alone in the wilderness, with only a dog as his companion, a German shepherd named Odin. No Manson followers to attack this time, though. The film, in theaters Friday, is “Heart of the Beast,” which pairs him again with “Fury” director David Ayer. As is the law with dog movies, it is al-

most guaranteed to make you cry. And like many of Pitt’s characters that have come before, Army Special Forces veteran James Belmont is a capital M, manosphere Man. Not that he’d even know what the manosphere is, or a podcast. He’s far too manly for that. James is a guy who doesn’t want, or need, any help from anyone. He’s got a compass tattoo on his neck, a paperback copy of Cormac McCarthy’s “The Road” in his bag, a notebook and a pencil for sketching, and a cooler full of bottled Belgian beers, neatly stacked around fresh ice. A beer opener, however? Not necessary for James. He’s got the side of his plastic cooler right there. When he has a brief encounter with another loner in the woods (J.K. Simmons, resplendent in mountain man furs), James can’t even muster up the social niceties to unclench his rifle and shake the stranger’s hand. He will, later, share one of his beers, however. This little encounter helps set

up a few things in Cameron Alexander’s script, allowing for some light exposition about how James and Odin, or Odie, are military veterans. James has 30 years under his belt, having served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Odie has the wounds to prove it, with a prosthetic leg and some titanium teeth. It also lays out that they’re in a very remote part of Alaska, where Simmons’ character has never seen another human, and that a big spring storm is coming. Anyone who has seen the trailer knows that soon Odie and James will be without their already minimal creature comforts in just a matter of time and staring down a 58-mile

hike through the wilderness in which they are both put through the wringer. And this is all after a heart attack that results in his Cessna pontoon aircraft ending up at the bottom of a lake. It is quite the white-knuckle journey through the wild with all sorts of challenges along the way. Stormy weather, bears, wolves, swamps that were supposed to be fields, slippery rocks and dangerous river crossings are all lurking. Even sleep has its perils. “Heart of the Beast,” it should be said, is not based on a true story. But it is a kind of ode to the resilience of veterans and combat dogs in a very flatter-

ing, superhero light. It never strays far from the formula, but while often predictable, occasionally implausible and sometimes even straight propaganda, it’s an effectively thrilling adventure and Pitt can shed a tear (actually, many) like the best of them. This might not be his most interesting outing as a performer, but it works on a primal level. And the movie is best when it’s at its simplest, showing the bond between Odin and James, and how worried they are about each other. Four dogs, all in the same family, were used to compile Odin’s performance, but the bulk of it was done by a German shepherd named Uber. A little CGI was used in the process. And while the film definitely wants to make the audience sweat a bit, it also offers up a promise right at the start. Can the first scene in a movie be a spoiler? I think, technically, not, but if you’ve read this far you might also be looking for some reassurances. All I’ll say is, don’t worry, this isn’t that kind of movie. But you probably already knew that. “Heart of the Beast,” a Paramount Pictures release in theaters Friday, is rated PG-13 by the Motion Picture Association for “violence, peril, bloody/injury images and some language.” Running time: 101 minutes. Two and a half stars out of four.

DAVIDSON

DURHAM

NEW HANOVER

NOTICE

NOTICE

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, KAREN DORIS HOOKER, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of KENNETH ALLYN HOOKER, JR. Deceased, hereby notifies all persons, firms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said KAREN DORIS HOOKER, at the address set out below, on or before December 3, 2026, or this notice may be pleaded in bar of any payment or recovery of same. All persons indebted to said Decedent will please make immediate payment to the undersigned at the address set out below. This the 28th day of August, 2026. KAREN DORIS HOOKER Executor OF ESTATE OF KENNETH ALLYN HOOKER, Jr. c/o ROBERT H. HOCHULI, JR. 219 RACINE DR., SUITE #A6 Wilmington, NC 28405

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 December 10th, 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 28409 Signed this the 20th day of August, 2026. Giles Charles Simpson

Nightmares of combat await both By Lindsey Bahr The Associated Press

SCOTT GARFIELD / PARAMOUNT PICTURES VIA AP

Brad Pitt stars in “Heart of the Beast.”

NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA DAVIDSON COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE UNDERSIGNED, Kim Michelle Merritt, having qualified on the 14th day of August, 2026, as Executor of the Richard Sidney Smith (26E000945280), deceased, does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said Estate that they must present them to the undersigned at DAVID E. ANDERSON, PLLC, 9111 Market Street, Suite A, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28411, on or before the 7th day of December, 2026, or the claims will be forever barred thereafter, and this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make prompt payment to the undersigned at the above address. This 3rd day of September 2026. Kim Michelle Merritt Executor RICHARD SIDNEY SMITH David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411 Publish: September 3, 2026 September 10, 2026 September 17, 2026 September 24, 2026

Probate #26E001023-310 All persons, firm and corporations having claims against Dede Wingender Hall, late of Durham County, North Carolina are hereby notified to present them to Garrett Glenn Hall, as Executor of the decedent’s estate in care of Kendall H. Page, Attorney, 210 N Columbia Street, Chapel Hill, NC 27514 on or before the 3rd day of December, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the abovenamed Executor. Kendall H. Page 210 N Columbia Street Chapel Hill, NC 27514 Bar # 14261 Notice to Run: 09/03/2026, 09/10/2026, 09/17/2026 & 09/24/2026

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, Matthew Allen Dean, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Doris Ann Diorio. Deceased, hereby notifies all persons, firms or corporations having claims against the Decedent to exhibit same to the said Matthew Allen Dean, at the address set out below, on or before December 11, 2026, or this notice may be pleaded in bar of any payment or recovery of same. All persons indebted to said Decedent will please make immediate payment to the undersigned at the address set out below. This the 22nd of September, 2026. Matthew Allen Dean Executor OF ESTATE OF Doris Ann Diorio. c/o ROBERT H. HOCHULI, JR. 219 RACINE DR., SUITE #A6 Wilmington, NC 28405

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND

NOTICE

NOTICE

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK ESTATE FILE NO. 26E001388-250 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARIA M. BAILEY, Deceased The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Maria M. Bailey, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to present their claims to the undersigned at the address shown below on or before December 3, 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 Cynthia Cuschieri Executor of the Estate of Maria M. Bailey 825 2nd Street Hoquiam, Washington 98550

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Ancillary Administrator’s Notice 26E001206-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Ancillary Administrator of the Estate of Tommy Edward Henry, deceased late of Cumberland County, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the address below on or before the 3rd day of December 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 is the 3rd day of September 2026. Melinda L Woosley, Ancillary Administrator of the Tommy Edward Henry Estate Haymount Law 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 09/03/2026, 09/10/2026, 09/17/2026, 09/24/2026

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001367-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Baerbel Malin, 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 3rd day of December 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 3rd day of September 2026. Thorsten Malin, Administrator of the Baerbel Malin Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 09/03, 09/10, 09/17, 09/24

NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE CUMBERLAND COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO.: 26-E-0001377-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE ESTATE OF MARY L. HOWELL STEPHENS The undersigned, having qualified as the Administrator of the Estate of Mary L. Howell Stephens, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned at the address listed below on or before the date December 3, 2026 specified by law, which date shall be three (3) months from the date of the first publication of this Notice, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 3rd day of September, 2026. James A. Stephens, Administrator Estate of Mary L. Howell Stephens 6191 Timberland Drive Fayetteville, NC 28314

NOTICE

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001366-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Katherine Irene Balestrieri, 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 10th day of December 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 10th day of September 2026. Kimberly Ann Denny Bowley, Administrator of the Katherine Irene Balestrieri Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 09/10, 9/17, 09/24, 10/01

State of North Carolina County of Cumberland In the General. court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File # 26E0015516-250 Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Thomas Hardin Jeffries, 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 24th day of December 2026 (_which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice will be pleaded in bar of the recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 24 th day of September, 2026. Susan J Laney Administrator/Executor 198 Morgan Street Forest City,North Carolina 28043 Of the Estate Thomas Hardin Jeffries, Deceased

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORSNOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001494-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Hildegard Anna Brady, 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 24th day of December 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 24th day of September 2026. Heinz Jason Brady, Executor of the Hildegard Anna Brady Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 09/24, 10/01, 10/08, 10/15

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Ella Earnestine Davies a/k/a Ella Ernestine Davies a/k/a Ella E. Davies Cumberland County Estate File No. 26E001428-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Ella Earnestine Davies a/k/a Ella Ernestine Davies a/k/a Ella E. Davies, Deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Cheryl Dianne Maisch, Executor of the Estate of Ella Earnestine Davies a/k/a Ella Ernestine Davies a/k/a Ella E. Davies, at 2913 Wycliffe Court, Fayetteville, NC 28306, on or before the 18th day of December, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of Ella Earnestine Davies a/k/a Ella Ernestine Davies a/k/a Ella E. Davies are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above. This the 17th day of September, 2026. Cheryl Dianne Maisch, Executor of the Estate of Ella Earnestine Davies a/k/a Ella Ernestine Davies a/k/a Ella E. Davies Williford McCauley-Attorney for the Estate of Ella Earnestine Davies a/k/a Ella Ernestine Davies a/k/a Ella E. Davies Mailing address: P. O. Box 53606 Fayetteville, NC 28305 Physical address: 235 Green Street Fayetteville, NC 28301

NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Russell Elliott 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 3rd day of December, 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. Parties may submit claims to Estate of Russell Elliott, P.O. Box 25182, Fayetteville, NC, 28314.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Cumberland County, North Carolina RE: THE ESTATE OF Lisa Renee Ferguson 26E000115-250 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Lisa Renee Ferguson, 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 10th day of December, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This, the 2nd day of September, 2026. Joseph Ferguson, Administrator DSR Legal, PLLC PO Box 51596 Durham, NC 27717

ESTATE OF HAN VAN NGUYEN-FILE NO. 26E001403250 ALL PERSONS, firms and corporations having claims against Han Van Nguyen, deceased, of Cumberland County, NC, are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before December 7, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 3rd day of September, 2026. Nga Nguyen, Administrator c/o Cameron D. Sullivan, Whitaker & Hamer, PLLC 121 E. Main Street Clayton, NC 27520 North State Journal September 3, 10, 17, 24, 2026.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of Elizabeth M. Yarborough a/k/a Elizabeth McDonald Yarborough Cumberland County Estate File No. 26E001369-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Elizabeth M. Yarborough a/k/a Elizabeth McDonald Yarborough, Deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Carla R. McCauley, Executor of the Estate of Elizabeth M. Yarborough a/k/a Elizabeth McDonald Yarborough, at P.O. Box 53606, Fayetteville, NC 28305 or 235 Green Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301, on or before the 18th day of December, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of Elizabeth M. Yarborough a/k/a Elizabeth McDonald Yarborough are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above. This the 17th day of September, 2026. Carla R. McCauley, Executor of the Estate of Elizabeth M. Yarborough a/k/a Elizabeth McDonald Yarborough Williford McCauley - Attorney for the Estate of Elizabeth M. Yarborough a/k/a Elizabeth McDonald Yarborough Mailing address: P. O. Box 53606 Fayetteville, NC 28305 Physical address: 235 Green Street Fayetteville, NC 28301

NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FILE NO: 26E001373-250 ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE: Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of ALVIN CLAYTON KELLER, deceased, late of CUMBERLAND County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present the same to the undersigned on or before the 3rd day of December, 2026, (which is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice) at the address of the representative shown below, or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate, please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 3rd day of September, 2026. Deborah Smith Keller 5328 Anna Belle Lane, Wade, North Carolina 28395

NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Cumberland County, North Carolina RE: THE ESTATE OF MELISSA LOCKLEAR – 26E001071-250 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Melissa Locklear, 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 17th day of December 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This is the 17th day of September 2026. CHRISTINA CAULDER, ADMINISTRATOR DSR Legal, PLLC PO Box 51596 Durham, NC 27717

NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Lewis Edward Wilson, 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 December 10, 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 is the 10th day of September, 2026. Administrator of the Estate of Lewis Edward Wilson 110 Coyatee Point Drive Loudon, TN 37774

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY FILE NO. 26E1352 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Carol A. Martin, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned hereby notifies all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to present their claims to the undersigned at the address below on or before December 9, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to said estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 19th day of August, 2026. Elena Dillenger Executor of the Estate of Carol A. Martin 2320 Spindle Tree Drive Fayetteville, NC 28304

Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File #26E001417-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Dorothy Jean Washington, 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 December 10, 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 10th day of September, 2026. Administrator of the Estate of Dorothy Jean Washington. John F. Ham Post Office Box 480838 Charlotte, NC 28269

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Estate of David Witherspoon McColl, Jr. a/k/a David W. McColl, Jr. Cumberland County Estate File No. 26E001258-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against David Witherspoon McColl, Jr. a/k/a David W. McColl, Jr., Deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Joyce Burney McColl, Executor of the Estate of David Witherspoon McColl, Jr. a/k/a David W. McColl, Jr., at 3209 Granville Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28303, on or before the 18th day of December, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of David Witherspoon McColl, Jr. a/k/a David W. McColl, Jr. are requested to make immediate payment to the Executor named above. This the 17th day of September, 2026. Joyce Burney McColl, Executor of the Estate of David Witherspoon McColl, Jr. a/k/a David W. McColl, Jr.

NOTICE The undersigned, having qualified as Executor Of the Estate of Latasha Jaquitta McMillian, 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 day of December 03, 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 day of August 25th, 2026 Chester McMillian 334 Lincoln Dr Fayetteville NC 28301 Of the Estate of Latasha Jaquitta McMillian, Deceased

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001468-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Ancillary Administrator of the Estate of Donald Alvin Meyer, 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 17th day of December 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 17th day of September 2026. Jana J. Meyer, Ancillary Administrator of the Donald Alvin Meyer Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 09/17, 09/24, 10/01, 10/08

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 26E001414-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Cynthia Ann Riddle Rogers, 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 December 10, 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 September, 2026. James Rogers, Administrator of the Estate of Cynthia Ann Riddle Rogers NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY & CORLEY, P.A. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR ADMINISTRATOR

NOTICE In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File #26E001328-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having qualified as Executor of the Estate of James Frank Watson, deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against them to the undersigned on or before the 17th day of December, 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 September, 2026. Administer of the Estate of James Frank Watson 371 Sullivan Road, Selma, NC. 27576

NOTICE TO CREDITORS: Cumberland County, North Carolina RE: THE ESTATE OF ENRIQUETA YBARRA WHITE – 26E000678-250 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Enriqueta Ybarra White, 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 3rd day of December 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This is the 3rd day of September 2026. SONYA WHITE, ADMINISTRATOR CTA DSR Legal, PLLC PO Box 51596 Durham, NC 27717

NOTICE TO CREDITORS IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ARTHUR DAVID WILSON, DECEASED Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Arthur David Wilson, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate to present them to the undersigned on or before December 3, 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 3rd day of September, 2026. Matthew Wilson Executor of the Estate of Arthur David Wilson 323 Bendemeer Lane Rolesville, North Carolina 27571

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NUMBER: 26E001370-250 In the Matter of the Estate of: GWENDOLYN PAUL VANZANT Deceased. EXECUTOR’S NOTICE The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Gwendolyn Paul VanZant, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to present them to the undersigned on or before December 24, 2026 (which is three (3) months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. THIS the 21st day of September, 2026. Susan Paul Acosta, Executor of the Estate of Gwendolyn Paul VanZant, Deceased c/o J. Thomas Neville Yarborough, Winters & Neville, P.A. P.O. Box 705 Fayetteville, NC 28302-0705 Publish: 09/24/2026, 10/01/2026, 10/08/2026 and 10/15/2026

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

PEN & PAPER PURSUITS

sudoku

SOLUTIONS FROM LAST WEEK

Panthers offense is for real, B3

GEORGE WALKER IV / AP PHOTO

Grand Ole’ Drop-ry: Officials signal touchdown after NC State fumbled on an attempted game-ending safety and Vanderbilt cornerback Cayden Daniels (26) recovers.

the Thursday SIDELINE REPORT

The fumble heard round the world: NC State pulls off the inconceivable

NCAA FOOTBALL

Despite having the lead and the ball with six seconds to go, the Wolfpack found a way to lose in Nashville

West Virginia beats No. 25 Virginia 38-27 in the Duke’s Mayo Classic Charlotte Michael Hawkins accounted for 313 yards of total offense and five touchdowns as West Virginia beat No. 25 Virginia 38-27 in the Duke’s Mayo Classic at the Carolina Panthers’ Bank of America Stadium. Hawkins, who started five games at Oklahoma the previous two years before transferring to West Virginia in January, has guided the Mountaineers to a 3-0 start for second-year coach Rich Rodriguez. Virginia fell to 2-1.

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal

MLS

Westwood has goal, assist as Charlotte beats DC United to extend unbeaten streak Washington Ashley Westwood had a goal and an assist following a one-match suspension, and Charlotte FC completed a season sweep of D.C. United with a 2-1 win, extending its unbeaten streak to eight. Kristijan Kahlina matched his career high with 10 saves for Charlotte (12-7-7). Westwood scored in the 22nd minute and gave Charlotte the lead in the 71st minute when he set up Allan Saint-Maximin for his first goal.

NWSL

Dudley’s brace lifts Gotham to 2-1 win over Courage Cary Jordynn Dudley scored two goals, including the eventual winner in stoppage time, to lead Gotham to a 2-1 road victory over the North Carolina Courage. North Carolina had two apparent goals ruled offside. In the 69th minute, N.C.’s Natalia Staude finally put one away to tie the game 1-1. But then Dudley knocked it home for the winner in stoppage time. North Carolina (12-10-3) has now dropped consecutive matches.

GEORGE WALKER IV / AP PHOTO

NC State quarterback CJ Bailey (11) walks off the field after the team’s loss at Vanderbilt.

NEVER MIND program history, never mind college football history — the way NC State lost this past Saturday might have been one of the most embarrassing losses in sports history. Instead of eking out a three-point win over Vanderbilt, the Wolfpack found a way to literally fumble away an assured win with a disastrous final play. All NC State had to do was run one more play to capture their first road win over an SEC opponent since 1977.

It was fourth down with the Wolfpack standing virtually in their own end zone, but there were only six seconds of game time remaining. Run it out the back of the end zone, take a knee, launch it away downfield. Heck, even punt it. There were a plethora of options that could have guaranteed the Wolfpack the win. Instead, with one second on the clock, NC State quarterback CJ Bailey decided to run at the opposing defense with a one-arm grip on the football and shockingly fumbled it in his own end zone, allowing the Commodores to leap on it to steal the win. “Yeah, I mean, it’s just a play where you roll out and you don’t get tackled,” said NC State coach Dave Doeren postgame. See NC STATE, page B3

Hurricanes’ second line aiming higher Jackson Blake, Taylor Hall and Logan Stankoven are looking to build on last season’s success By Cory Lavalette North State Journal RALEIGH — The memories the Carolina Hurricanes have of winning the Stanley Cup won’t soon go away, and even in the moments when it settles into the background, there are reminders. “Even this morning, we’re in the gym and Game 6 is on the NHL Network,” Taylor Hall said Sunday after Carolina’s training camp practice. “So it’s like we’re just sitting around watching. It’s unreal. It’ll never get old.” The playoff run — along with the last six weeks of the regular season — can also serve as a benchmark of what Hall and his linemates, Jackson Blake and Logan Stankoven, are capable of. Blake was a point-per-game player in his final eight games of the regular season and fol-

lowed that by leading the team in playoff scoring with 20 points in 19 games. “Towards the end it just started clicking for some reason,” he said. “I don’t know what it was. But hopefully we can start this year clicking again and kind of building off of how we finished last year.” The line was widely considered the league’s best in the postseason, but the trio, coach Rod Brind’Amour and the front office had to believe the chances that were being created without many results earlier in the season would result in production. That was particularly true of Stankoven, who surely heard the calls that the Hurricanes needed to upgrade at center and, at 5-foot-8, he couldn’t withstand the rigors of playoff hockey. “He was playing really well. I mean, it was obvious,” Brind’Amour said. “You didn’t have to kind of fake that to convince him — just watch the game. He was getting tons of opportunities, creating a lot of offense and just

KARL DEBLAKER / AP PHOTO

Hurricanes right wing Jackson Blake (53) celebrates his goal with teammate Taylor Hall (71) during Game 5 of the Eastern Conference final May 29 in Raleigh. finally got going at the end.” Stankoven carried that into the playoffs, when he scored a team-high 11 goals. “I think that was a big part, just sticking with it,” Stankoven said. “You learn things as the year goes on, and me being a young guy, I’m still learning and still trying to grow as a player. I think having these

deep playoff runs, you learn a lot about yourself and your teammates and what works and what doesn’t.” Carolina brings back nearly its entire lineup from its championship team, and nothing is as etched in stone heading into the start of the season See HURRICANES, page B4

B2 THURSDAY

9.24.26

TRENDING

Brady and Trey Ebel: Brady, a first-round draft pick of the Brewers in 2025, was at bat for the Class A Wilson Warbirds on July 19 with a 2-0 count when it began raining, and the game was suspended. By the time it was resumed, Aug. 25, Brady had been promoted to High-A. But his younger brother Trey, a first-round pick of the Brewers in 2026, stepped in to pinch hit and finished his brother’s at-bat, drawing a walk.

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Beyond the box score POTENT QUOTABLES

NASCAR

Joey Logano led the final seven laps at Bristol Motor Speedway after seizing the lead. Carson Hocevar traded punches in the pits with Ryan Blaney after they were involved in an incident while racing for second with 41 laps left where Hocevar wrecked Blaney’s car from behind. Hocevar finished third and was greeted by a shove from Blaney. They exchanged punches before they were separated by their crews.

GEORGE WALKER IV / AP PHOTO

“I can’t hang onto the ball for guys.” NC State coach Dave Doeren on what he could have done differently in the Wolfpack’s shocking loss at Vanderbilt.

WADE PAYNE / AP PHOTO

NCAA FOOTBALL

Darian Mensah: The former Duke quarterback completed 35 straight passes for Miami to break the ACC record. Mensah completed his last 11 passes against Florida A&M and then went 24 for 24 to start the game against Wake Forest. He broke the record of 30 set by Mitch Trubisky in 2016. He also broke the ACC single-game record of 18. Stephon Gilmore: One of the most dominant cornerbacks of his era, and a 2021 Carolina Panther, officially retired as a member of the New England Patriots. The 35-year-old signed a one-day contract with the team. Gilmore won a Super Bowl with the Patriots during the 2018 season. He earned two All-Pro selections and was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2019.

NBA

GEORGE WALKER IV / AP PHOTO

“We cheated the football gods today and got away with it.” Vanderbilt coach Clark Lea after beating NC State.

GERALD HERBERT / AP PHOTO

Clemson will be the lone ACC member playing eight league games in 2027 in the shift to a nine-game schedule. That’s a quirk of the ACC having 17 members, the only power conference with an odd number. Twelve teams play nine ACC games this year in the transition to the new model.

MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

Taj Gibson joined the Chicago Bulls coaching staff after announcing the end of his playing career. The 6-foot-9 forward averaged 8.3 points and 5.7 rebounds in 1,012 career games with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Minnesota Timberwolves, New York Knicks, Detroit Pistons, Charlotte Hornets and Memphis Grizzlies.

PRIME NUMBER

67 Consecutive wins by Bill Belichick-coached teams after taking a 14-point lead before Saturday’s loss at Clemson. The Tar Heels led 17-3 before losing 28-20. Belichick was 5-0 with a two-touchdown lead at UNC and last blew a lead that large on Dec. 6, 2015, when the Patriots led the Eagles 14-0 and lost 35-28.

PGA

COLIN HUBBARD / AP PHOTO

Jacob Bridgeman rallied from five shots down with a career-best 61 to win the inaugural Biltmore Championship Asheville by two shots. Ben James also shot a 61 and was runner-up. Neal Shipley tied for third. Bridgeman’s victory at The Cliffs at Walnut Grove was his second of the season. He also won the Genesis Invitational at Riviera.

B3

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Baller mode: Young taking more shots downfield for Panthers The offense has been aggressive and explosive under Brad Idzik

“Any time we’re ahead of the sticks, Bryce is special.”

By Shawn Krest North State Journal DAVE CANALES might be the quarterback whisperer, but Brad Idzik has given Bryce Young a taste for blood. When the Panthers hired Canales as head coach, he came with the reputation for rebuilding quarterback projects like Geno Smith and Baker Mayfield. The former top overall draft pick made strides under Canales in their first two seasons together, but it turns out Young didn’t need someone to whisper. He needed to learn how to growl. “Bryce is special when you get him in that baller mode,” Idzik said. The Panthers offensive coordinator took over playcalling responsibilities this season from Canales. In his first game calling plays, the team set scoring records for the Hall of Fame Game with the Cardinals. In the first game that counted, Carolina set an opening day scoring record with the Bears. Last week, the Panthers put up 34 against the Falcons, and only the Bills have scored more points this season. Young has been the unquestioned star of the offense. He leads the NFL in touchdown

Brad Idzik, Panthers offensive coordinator

DANNY KARNIK / AP PHOTO

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young throws a pass during Sunday’s win in Atlanta. passes and ranks among the top three in yardage, yards per attempt and depth of target. Once known for playing it safe and short, Young has been taking risks deep, with more than 15% of his attempts going 20 yards or more, more than double last season’s rate. That’s by design as Idzik and Young have worked together to perfect the attack, getting into short yardage situations that allow Young to gamble. “Any time we’re ahead of the

sticks, Bryce is special,” Idzik said. A three-play touchdown drive against the Bears in Week 1 was a case study in how the Idzik offense works. Early in the second quarter, the Bears had just scored to go up 21-7. Young found Coker for 17 yards on the first play. “The second play was a simple wide zone run,” Idzik recalled. Running back Chuba Hubbard got the handoff. “He’s roaring off the ball, and he gets us five yards.” That made it second-and-5,

meaning Young had a chance to roll the dice. “I went up to (Hubbard) after that drive,” Idzik said, “and I told him, ‘You getting us five rather than a grimy three because you were aggressive off that ball, keeps us ahead of the sticks. That allows us to take play-action shots. You set that up.’” What did it set up, exactly? “We love to manipulate the pocket because we’re running the ball well,” Idzik said. Young took the snap and faked a handoff to Hubbard heading toward the left. The entire line blocked in that direction, as Young took the ball and stepped up, all alone on the right side of the group. “It’s like the seas part,” Idzik said, getting excited. “Everybody’s over here, and he’s got this beautiful view of nobody by Jalen (Coker) and the end zone.” Coker had a step on the defensive back, caught the ball at the 7 and took it the rest of the way for a 51-yard touchdown. “Because we’re ahead of the sticks running the ball, guys are

roaring off the ball, selling the run on play action passes, and now Bryce has all this room to operate and be special,” Idzik said. The big plays continued against Atlanta, with Xavier Legette catching a 55-yarder. “Just ownership,” Canales said. “I think something we talk about a lot is watching this offense become Bryce’s offense. It’s so evident in the week when he’s tweaking routes, angles of cuts, and saying, ‘Hey, I want you flatter on this one, take one more revolution here, come straight back to me, or come back down your stem. “All these different things that are a part of our system, Bryce is fine tuning those with the guys. You can see the trust level, some anticipatory throws. We had one drive where we hit about three play-action shots down the field to Coker and to those guys. That’s just all that timing and conversation that the guys put in.” Equally important, Young only has one interception through two weeks. The offense isn’t about just taking shots downfield. It’s about knowing when the odds are in Carolina’s favor. “Sometimes you call a shot play and it’s not the right coverage,” Canales said. “Bryce knows that, and sometimes you got the exact look he’s already anticipating, we’re really calling this for this. When he sees it, that’s when you see that aggressive nature come out, and he’s been able to take advantage of a couple of those over the last few weeks.” “Yeah, what was wrong with that play caller last year?” Canales added with a grin. “Couldn’t get the ball downfield.”

Wake Forest, UNC stumble in conference openers The Deacons and Tar Heels look to rebound after ACC-opening losses By Jesse Deal North State Journal CHARLOTTE — Wake Forest and UNC each entered their ACC openers unbeaten and with chances to make early-season statements. Instead, both football teams left with their first losses of the 2026 campaign. Wake Forest fell 33-20 at home to No. 5 Miami on Friday night in Winston-Salem, while UNC lost 28-20 at Clemson on Saturday after leading for most of the game. The Demon Deacons (2-1, 0-1 ACC) found themselves in a deep hole against the Hurricanes (3-0, 2-0 ACC) before mounting a second-half rally that made the game competitive into the fourth quarter before a sold-out crowd. Miami quarterback Darian Mensah opened the game by completing his first 24 passes, setting an ACC single-game record for consecutive completions. He finished 30 of 34 for 220 yards and three touchdowns as the Hurricanes built a 31-7 lead midway through the third quarter. Wake Forest eventually found life behind quarterback Gio Lopez, who completed 29 of 46 passes for 312 yards and three touchdowns. Lopez

NC STATE from page B1 “You try to burn as much time as you can, and then fall to the ground and protect the football. He got hit and didn’t protect the football. The plan was to take a safety and try to run out the clock if we can.” But for whatever reason, somewhere between making the play call and snapping the ball, things got lost in translation and the third-year starter chose perhaps the only option on which his team could have lost. One could also question why they utilized Bailey in that situation at all, as the Wolfpack have a run-package quarterback in Will Wilson, whose whole calling card is his ball security. But even beyond the ludi-

connected with Jack Foley for a 23-yard score before finding Carlos Hernandez on a 17-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter, cutting Miami’s advantage to 31-20. Wake had chances to tighten the game further, but Miami’s defense closed the door. The Hurricanes pressured Lopez into a safety, forced two fourth-down incompletions and ended the final threat with an interception in the red zone. “I’m proud of our offense and how they responded in the second half,” Wake Forest coach Jake Dickert said. “We had four-straight three-and-outs at one point. Proud of our team. We need to learn from this and get better.” The Demon Deacons also hurt themselves with 13 penalties for 137 yards, including two that erased long fourth-quarter punt returns. “Our execution wasn’t at a high enough level,” Dickert said. “What I asked them in there was, ‘What changed in the third quarter?’ Because the defensive calls didn’t change, the offensive calls didn’t change. Our execution and our tackling in space and some other fundamental things we did better, so we have to lean on this.” Still, the second-half response gave Wake Forest something to build on. The Deacons forced Miami into four consecutive three-and-outs and showed more offensive rhythm after halftime. Lopez has now

crous way it ended, how the game even got to that point was embarrassing too. The Wolfpack had leads of 17-0 and 24-7 and were firmly in the driver’s seat, yet the team started to implode in the second half. The game started to get sloppy, with the Wolfpack demonstrating myriad issues, from an inability to finish tackles, blown coverages, dropped balls, questionable routes and an all-around poor display of clock management. NC State appeared to be on the verge of losing the game even before that final play as Vanderbilt drove down the field in the final two minutes before the Wolfpack was initially bailed out by Vanderbilt’s true freshman quarterback Jared

much of the first half at Clemson (2-1, 1-0 ACC), racing to a 17-3 advantage behind a 3-yard touchdown run from Demon June and a 15-yard touchdown pass from Billy Edwards Jr. to Benjamin Hall. UNC led 17-6 at halftime after outgaining the Tigers 195-117 over the opening two quarters. The Tar Heels finished with 214 rushing yards, including a career-high 130 from Hall. June added 58 yards as UNC consistently created room between the tackles. Clemson gradually cut into the deficit, pulling within 17-15 before a lengthy lightning delay stopped play with 8:11 remain-

ing in the fourth quarter. At the time, UNC appeared poised to make it a two-score game. After the nearly 21⁄2-hour delay, however, the Tar Heels gained only three yards on two rushing attempts and settled for a 22-yard field goal. Clemson answered with a 45-yard run by Gideon Davidson, who later scored from 8 yards out to give the Tigers their first lead, 21-20. After UNC turned the ball over on downs, Tyler Brown added a 34-yard touchdown run. UNC’s final possession ended with an Edwards interception at midfield. “Give Clemson credit — they made the plays at the end of the game they needed to make to win,” UNC coach Bill Belichick said. “Every game is a learning experience. You win or lose, we learn from all of them. Things we do well, we want to keep doing. Things we need to do better, we need to improve on.” The Tar Heels’ defense had largely controlled Clemson early, and sophomore Xavier Lewis had two sacks. But late tackling issues and the inability to finish a red-zone drive changed the game. Hall called the loss “a good learning lesson for us early in the season,” and that may be the clearest takeaway for both North Carolina teams. The Tar Heels will now enter a bye before hosting No. 3 Notre Dame on Oct. 3.

pretty damn good and coached pretty good.” That’s about as much accountability as one can ask for from the coach and the multimillion-dollar quarterback, who was not made available postgame. The deciding play is one that is going to live in infamy for many, many years to come. The moment has already generated countless social posts since it occurred, with pretty much anybody and everybody in the sports world talking about it. From former NC State quarterback Russell Wilson talking about how the ending “broke his heart” to popular X account Sickos Committee, whose whole gimmick is about celebrating “bad” plays, writing, “How are

we supposed to continue posting after that? Should we just wrap up the account?” It was so bad, Fanatics Sportsbook even said it would be refunding customers who bet on NC State moneyline or the plus-3.5 spread. It’s a moment that neither Bailey nor the program are ever going to live down. According to ESPN, heading into that Saturday afternoon game, teams with the ball and the lead in the final 10 seconds were 1,046-1, with the only other loss being Michigan’s 2015 loss to Michigan State, when a fumbled punt led to the loss. It went from a potential statement win that NC State badly needed to a bad black eye the program is going to have to wear in perpetuity.

JACOB KUPFERMAN / AP PHOTO

Clemson running back Gideon Davidson runs with the ball against UNC on Saturday in Clemson, South Carolina. The Tigers won 28-20.

“Every game is a learning experience.” Bill Belichick, UNC coach thrown for 887 yards with seven touchdowns and one interception through three games. The schedule does not ease up as Wake Forest travels to No. 23 Louisville on Saturday for another conference test. Over in Death Valley, UNC (2-1, 0-1 ACC) came even closer to leaving its league opener with a signature road win. The Tar Heels controlled

“The plan was to take a safety.” Dave Doeren, NC State coach Curtis throwing a red-zone interception with a little more than one minute remaining. However, according to Doeren, he and his staff were without fault for the way the game played out. “I can’t go out there and tackle for guys,” Doeren said. “I can’t hang onto the ball for guys. We called a good game, and they made some plays and we made some plays. We made enough to be in the lead for 59 minutes and 59 seconds at an SEC school on the road. Played

B4

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

WHAT IT WAS, WAS FOOTBALL North Carolina colleges post back-to-back winning weeks

25. Elizabeth City State, 0-3 (down 3): lost at home to Virginia State 28-14 (Bowie State)

By Shawn Krest North State Journal

26. Gardner-Webb, 1-3 (up 4): won 44-20 over NC Central (at Marshall)

THE STATE had another successful wee— Sorry. We have to interrupt this story and evacuate. Lightning has been detected in the area. Please clear the room and come back to continue reading in an hour and a half. For the first few weeks of the football season, Mother Nature has been busy demonstrating why people build domes, interrupting game after game, sending players to the locker room and fans to the parking lot to wait out the storms. In between the delays, the college teams in North Carolina managed to put together a winning record for the second straight week. Duke held on to the top spot in our rankings. There are now only four winless teams left in the state, as well as four undefeated squads. THE RANKINGS North Carolina’s record: 16-14 last week (55-56 overall) 1.

Duke, 3-0 (unchanged): won 35-7 over Stanford (William & Mary)

2.

Mars Hill, 3-0 (up 2): won 15-7 at Lenoir-Rhyne (at Carson-Newman)

3.

App State, 3-0 (up 2): won 26-21 over Charlotte (at NC State)

4.

Elon, 3-1 (up 4): won 24-21 over Sacred Heart (Maine)

5.

UNC, 2-1 (down 3): lost 28-20 at Clemson (idle)

6.

NC Wesleyan, 2-1 (down 3): lost 24-17 at Sewanee (idle)

7.

Campbell, 3-1 (up 3): won 42-14 over NC A&T (at Hampton)

8.

UNC Pembroke, 3-1 (up 3): won 44-41 over Valdosta State (Monroe)

9.

Catawba, 2-2 (up 3): won 24-10 over Emory & Henry (at Tusculum)

10. Johnson C. Smith, 3-1 (up 3): won 20-14 over Fayetteville State (idle) 11. Lenoir-Rhyne, 2-2 (down 5): lost 15-7 to Mars Hill (at Anderson) 12. Wake Forest, 2-1 (down 5): lost 33-20 at home to Miami (at Louisville) 13. Fayetteville State, 2-2 (down 4): lost 20-14 at Johnson C. Smith (Virginia Union) 14. Shaw, 2-1 (up 1): won 49-27 over Lincoln, Pa. (Livingstone) 15. Western Carolina, 2-2 (up 1): won 58-14 over Presbyterian (at ETSU) 16. Brevard, 2-0 (up 1): won at Erskine 27-14 (at Guilford) 17. NC Central, 2-2 (down 3): lost 4420 at Gardner-Webb (at East Carolina) 18. Guilford, 1-1 (up 2): idle (Brevard) 19. Chowan, 2-2 (up 4): won 34-0 over Barton (idle) 20. East Carolina, 1-2 (up 4): won 20-17 at Old Dominion (NC Central) 21. Livingstone, 2-2 (up 4): won 21-13 over Winston-Salem State (at Shaw) 22. Greensboro, 1-2 (down 4): lost at home to Bluefield 28-7 (idle) 23. Wingate, 1-3 (down 4): lost at home to Newberry 25-22 (UVA Wise) 24. NC State, 1-2 (down 3): lost 35-31 at Vanderbilt (App State)

Duke’s Nate Sheppard scores one of his three touchdowns against Stanford, earning a spot on our All-State team.

27. Davidson, 2-2 (up 4): won 27-24 over VMI in overtime (Drake) 28. Barton, 1-3 (down 2): lost 34-0 at Chowan (West Alabama) 29. Methodist, 0-2 (down 2): idle (at Newport News Apprentice) 30. Charlotte, 0-3 (down 2): lost at App State 26-21 (Louisiana) 31. NC A&T, 0-4 (down 2): lost 42-14 at Campbell (Rhode Island) 32. Winston-Salem State, 0-4 (unchanged): lost 21-13 at Livingstone (at Virginia State)

NAME GAMES Johnson C. Smith beat Fayetteville State in the Eddie McGirt Classic. JCSU’s home opener always honors the CIAA Hall of Fame coach who led the Golden Bulls to their only league title. McGirt also coached basketball at JC Smith and served as athletic director. STATE TITLE STANDINGS Mars Hill won at Lenoir-Rhyne. App State beat Charlotte. JC Smith beat Fayetteville State. Campbell blew out NC A&T, Gardner-Webb did the same to NC Central. Livingstone beat Winston-Salem State and Chowan shut out Barton. There are only four in-state matchups this week: App State plays at NC State, NC Central heads to ECU, Shaw hosts Livingstone, and Guilford hosts Brevard. • 3-0 Mars Hill • 2-0 App State, JC Smith, Campbell • 1-0 Elon, Greensboro, Gardner-Webb, Livingstone, Chowan • 2-1 Fayetteville State, NC Central

Winston-Salem Dash, Fayetteville Woodpeckers win minor league baseball titles The teams both won Single-A crowns By Shawn Krest North State Journal FOR THE FIRST time since 2018, North Carolina has a pair of minor league baseball champions. The Fayetteville Woodpeckers won their first Carolina League title, while the Winston-Salem Dash won the South Atlantic League for the first time. The victories bring the total number of affiliated minor league championships won by North Carolina teams since the turn of the century to 21. It’s also the sixth season since the year 2000 that multiple teams have won. Fayetteville pecks away at title Fayetteville, the Class-A affiliate of the Houston Astros, was the second-half champion of the North Division with a 39-25 record. The Woodpeckers finished third in the first half, at 32-33. They swept through the postseason, beating the first-half North champions, Fredericksburg, 4-2 and 8-1 in their best-of-three series. Fayetteville then beat South Division first-half champion Charleston 14-4 and 7-4 to sweep the best-of-three championship series. Charleston had earlier beaten the Hickory Crawdads, who won the second half with a 48-17 record and had the overall best record in the Carolina League at 82-47. It was the 37th time the Carolina League has been won by a North Carolina team in its 81-year history and the first since Buies Creek, which later moved to Fayetteville, in 2018. Another Fayetteville franchise, the Highlanders, won the Carolina league in 1954 and 1956. Fayetteville was sparked in the deciding game by Ben Tryon, who hit a grand slam to put the Woodpeckers on the board. The

21

Minor league championships won by North Carolina teams since 2000

team also had a pair of Carolina League all-stars: Third baseman Xavier Neyens, a first-round draft pick of the Astros in 2025, hit 14 home runs and had .911 OPS while stealing 16 bases. Jagger Beck started 15 games and went 5-3 with a 2.80 ERA and 102 strikeouts in 862⁄3 innings. Other Carolina League standouts from North Carolina teams included Nick Janssen, named Manager of the Year at Hickory, and Crawdads all-stars Paulino Santana and Aidan Deakins. Pitcher Moises Morales led the league with 10 wins, while teammate Evan Siary won the ERA crown. In their first year in their new home, the Wilson Warbirds (formerly the Carolina Mudcats), finished with the third-best record in the North Division, missing the postseason. All-star Brady Ebel was named the league’s top MLB prospect, and teammate Jose Anderson led the Carolina League with 23 home runs. The Kannapolis Cannon Ballers had the third-best record in the South Division and missed the playoffs. They were led by Landen Payne, who tied for the league lead in saves, and all-star Max Banks. Dashing to the championship The Winston-Salem Dash, the High-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, won their first South Atlantic League title. The Dash earned the second-half South Division title with a 3530 mark, then took out the firsthalf champion Bowling Green

in a best-of-three, winning 9-8 in extras and 4-1 to finish the sweep. Meanwhile, Greensboro, which got the second-half North Division nod at 41-25, beat first-half champ Frederick, bouncing back from a 13-1 opening loss to win 5-3 and 7-5. That set up the league’s first All-North-Carolina championship series since 2015, when the Hickory Crawdads beat the Asheville Tourists. That was also the last time the league had a champion from the state. Winston-Salem made short work of the Hoppers, sweeping 15-8 and 2-0. Starting pitcher Grant Umbarger had 11 strikeouts — his second 11-strikeout game of the postseason — to lead the Dash to the title. Winston-Salem was also led by all-star third baseman Caleb Bonemer. It’s the 14th time since the current iteration of the Sally League began in 1980 that a North Carolina team has won, and it’s the first title for the city of Winston-Salem since the team, then known as the Warthogs, won the Carolina League in 2003. Greensboro had four all-stars: first baseman Jared Jones, shortstop Wyatt Sanford, catcher Axiel Plax and utility man Sammy Safura. It was the Grasshoppers’ first trip to the championship series since 2021 and their third unsuccessful appearance in the finals since their last Sally League title in 2011. The Asheville Tourists didn’t have the same success as their other in-state counterparts. They finished in last place in both halves of the season. The state’s two Triple-A franchises both missed the International League playoffs. The Charlotte Knights finished in third place in the first half of the East Division season but slipped to sixth in the second half. The Durham Bulls were tied for ninth in the first half and improved to fifth in the second half.

• 1-1 UNC Pembroke, Shaw, Guilford • 0-1 Wingate, Davidson, Western Carolina, Elizabeth City State, ECU, Catawba, Methodist, Lenoir-Rhyne, Charlotte • 0-2 NC A&T, Barton • 0-3 Winston-Salem State ALL-STATE PERFORMANCES FOR WEEK 2 Quarterback: Tyler Adkins, Chowan, 27-47 for 465 yards, 2 TDs Running backs: Nate Sheppard, Duke, 23 rushes for 154 yards, 2 TDs, 1 TD receiving; Josh Perry, Western Carolina, 142 yards on 16 carries, 3 TDs, 20 receiving yards Receiver: Tyson Resper, NC Wesleyan, 16 catches, 221 yards, TD; Keenan Jackson, NC State, 9 catches, 102 yards, 3 TDs Defensive line: Dontavius Phillips, Livingstone, 4 tackles, 2 solo, 2 TFLs, 2 sacks, 2 forced fumbles; Russell Barnett, Mars Hill, 4 tackles, 2 solo, 2.5 TFLs, 2.5 sacks Linebacker: Brodie Carroll, Elon, 16 tackles, 11 solo, 1 TFL, 1 sack, 2 pass breakups; Jamarion Farrior, Mars Hill, 11 tackles, 3 solo, 1 TFL, 1 sack Defensive back: KJ Whitehead, Lenoir-Rhyne, 8 tackles, 4 solo, 2 TFLs, 1 pass breakup; Collin Gill, Charlotte, 7 tackles, 5 solo, 2 pass breakups, 1 interception and 36-yard return for a touchdown Special teams: Kyle Perry, Catawba, 56-yard punt return for a TD

JASON JACKSON FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

COURTESY @WOODPECKERSNC / X

The Woodpeckers celebrate after winning Fayetteville’s first minor league championship in 70 years.

HURRICANES from page B1 as the line of Blake, Hall and Stankoven. “I’m really excited for that, and I think they probably are too,” the 34-year-old Hall said of his decade-younger linemates. “And I think the beauty of it is there’s not much to change. How we played in the playoffs against really good competition is probably going to work in the regular season once we start this thing up.” While the trio doesn’t want to change anything from the way they played down the stretch and in the playoffs, there’s still a realization that success doesn’t mean you can stop putting in the work. “We can’t try and be too fancy,” Hall said. “We can’t try and do too much. I think that’s a problem you can get into and you start really feeling yourself and all that. So I think our line, if we work hard and we manage

“I’m really excited for that, and I think they probably are too.” Taylor Hall on starting the season on a line with Jackson Blake and Logan Stankoven pucks, eventually our skills kind of take over, and hopefully that’s the plan.” Stankoven said he had a “productive” summer, hoping to have a “consistent, productive season” in his third full year in the NHL. One skill that’s harder to work on in the offseason is faceoffs. Stankoven, who moved to center at the start of last season, said before the 2025-26 season his goal was to win at least half of his draws. He fell well short of that, at 44.3%, but he said the experience of learning the tendencies of linesmen and oth-

er centers around the league should help him improve. “That’s just something you learn as the year goes on and you get older,” said Stankoven, who is again aiming to crack 50% in the circle. And Brind’Amour — who knows a thing or two about winning faceoffs — said Stankoven took strides at the dot. “I already saw big growth in it from the start of the season until the end, and guys that are willing to work on that get better — generally, that’s what you see,” Brind’Amour said. “And guys that don’t, you just you stay at that same number, whatever it was. So he’s going to get better.” And the sky’s the limit for the Hurricanes if their second line can be even better than it was at the end of last season. “We found that chemistry towards the end of the year,” Stankoven said, “and I think we should try and build on that and even just keep getting better.”

B5

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

TAKE NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Colleen Nance Pinson 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 Richard L. Cox, 113 Worth Street, Asheboro, NC 27203 on or before December 7th 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 3rd day of September 2026. Ann N Shaw Colleen Nance Pinson Estate Richard L. Cox, Attorney Gavin & Cox 113 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 Telephone: 336-629-2600

RANDOLPH

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Frances McGee Cook a/k/a Mary Frances McGee Cook, a/k/a Mary McGee Cook, 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 December 18, 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 8th day of September, 2026 Phillip Dean Wishon Executor of the Estate of Frances McGee Cook a/k/a Mary Frances McGee Cook a/k/a Mary McGee Cook Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 9/17/26, 9/24/26, 10/1/26, 10/8/26

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Hazel Hall Coble aka Shirley Hazel Hall Coble aka Shirley Hall Coble, 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 December 21, 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 17th day of September, 2026

Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of ALEJANDRO CANSECO GOMEZ, 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 December 11, 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 10th day of September 2026. CHRISTOPHER GOMEZ ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of ALEJANDRO CANSECO GOMEZ MARION “BETH” MCQUAID, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 09/10/26, 09/17/26, 09/24/26, 10/11/26

NEW HANOVER NOTICE TO CREDITORS STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of John Henry Shepard, deceased, 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 exhibit them to the undersigned at the address below on or before December 3, 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 31st day of August, 2026. Iris Shepard Executor of the Estate of John Henry Shepard 4805 Grouse Woods Drive Wilmington, NC 28411

Deborah Coble Holcomb aka Deborah Faye Coble aka Deborah Coble Winfrey Executor of the Estate of Hazel Hall Coble aka Shirley Hazel Hall Coble aka Shirley Hall Coble Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 09/17/26, 09/24/26, 10/01/26, 10/08/26

CABARRUS AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24SP001611-120 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Frances D. Spears (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Frances D. Spears and Bobby Smith and Betty Johnson and Jerry Smith and Ronnie Smith and Althea Brown) to PRLAP, Inc., Trustee(s), dated September 5, 2008, and recorded in Book No. 08479, at Page 0001 in Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cabarrus County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Concord, Cabarrus

NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CABARRUS GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26CV003861-120 MidFirst Bank, Plaintiff, v. Vincent Desean Mitchell, Loren Marie Mitchell, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Castle Credit Co Holdings, LLC Defendant(s). NOTICE OF SALE

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP000680-120 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Batsirai Neliah Kasu (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Batsirai Neliah Kasu) to SPM Affiliates Inc.,, Trustee(s), dated November 24, 2009, and recorded in Book No. 08976, at Page 0021 in Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on February 8, 2017, in Book No. 12351, at Page 0324 , 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 Cabarrus County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Concord, Cabarrus County, North

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP000460-120 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Mark L. Carpenter (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Mark L. Carpenter) to Heather Lovier, Trustee(s), dated March 12, 2024, and recorded in Book No. 16848, at Page 0154 in Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cabarrus County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Concord, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on September 28, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Kannapolis in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as EXECUTOR of the Estate of LAWSON LIHUGH PARRISH aka, LAWSON L. PARRISH aka, LAWSON PARRISH, 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 December 25, 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 24th day of September 2026. MARGARET ELLEN SAUNDERS PARRISH EXECUTOR of the Estate of LAWSON LIHUGH PARRISH aka, LAWSON L. PARRISH aka, LAWSON PARRISH DECEASED S. SCOTT EGGLESTON, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043

WAKE Notice to Creditors Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of PEGGY W. FITE, aka PEGGY JOYCE FITE, aka PEGGY WATTERSON FITE, late of Wake County, North Carolina (26E002609-910), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 27th day of December 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 24th day of September 2026. /s/ Cheri Lynn Fite Executor Estate of Peggy W. Fite, Aka, Peggy Joyce Fite, aka Peggy Watterson Fite c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 09/24, 10/1, 10/8, 10/15/2026)

Notice to Creditors Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of CECIL EUGENE PEARSON, late of Wake County, North Carolina (26E002806-910), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 27th day of December 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 24th day of September 2026. /s/ Laura Marie Fehnel Administrator Estate of Cecil Eugene Pearson c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 09/24, 10/1, 10/8, 10/15/2026)

PUBL/DATES: 09/24/26 10/01/26 10/08/26 10/15/26

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 12:00 PM on October 5, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Concord in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that real property situated in the County of Cabarrus, State of North Carolina: Being the same property conveyed to the grantor by deed recorded 01/04/2005 in Book 05737, Page 267 Cabarrus County Registry, to which deed reference is hereby made for a more particular description of this property. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 51 Sunderland Road Southwest, Concord, North Carolina. Property Address: 51 Sunderland Rd Parcel ID: 56205226300000 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.

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 Cabarrus County courthouse at 1:00 PM on September 28, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Vincent Desean Mitchell; Loren Marie Mitchell, dated November 17, 2017 to secure the original principal amount of $137,464.00, and recorded in Book No. 12770, at Page 74 of the Cabarrus 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: 1208 Clifton Street, Kannapolis, NC 28081 Tax Parcel ID: 5613 17 1335 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. 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.

Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on September 29, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Huntersville in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING known and designated as all of Lot 32 in that subdivision known as CASCADES AT SKYBROOK, Phase 2, Map 1, as the same is shown on a map thereof recorded in Map Book 56 at Page 66 in the Cabarrus County Registry; reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 845 Windy Falls Drive, Huntersville, 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 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.

follows: Beginning at a stake in the west edge of Rose Ave. in what is known as the G.F. Rogers Property in Kannapolis, North Carolina, No. 4 Township, a corner of the Cabarrus Lumber and Supply Co. and runs thence along the line of the Cabarrus Lumber and Supply Co. S. 80 W. 69.65 feet to an iron stake in the Cabarrus Lumber and Supply Co. line; thence N. 12 W. 95 feet to a stake, a new corner; thence N. 80 E. 62.75 feet to a stake in the West edge of Rose Ave., a new corner; thence S. 16 1⁄2 E. 95 feet along the West edge of Rose Ave. to the beginning. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 212 Lincoln Street, Kannapolis, North Carolina. The grantor herein, in addition hereto, does hereby deed and grant a street on the North side of the above described property and the F.H. Helms lot 20 feet wide for their use and for the use of the public extending from Rose Ave. to the street at the Fred Reece corner. 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.

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

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: 3379 - 80578

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 19th day of August, 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

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: 28368 - 145076

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: 27589 - 140418

B6

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

CABARRUS NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP000443-120 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Herman Kenneth Stoner and Evelyn P. Eller (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Herman K. Stoner and Evelyn P. Eller) to Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, Trustee(s), dated February 20, 2013, and recorded in Book No. 10416, at Page 0349 in Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on September 28, 2022, in Book No. 16220, at Page 317 , 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 Cabarrus County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse

CUMBERLAND 26-124677 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 26SP000336-250 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MARK A. BLAIS, JR. AND MICHAELA M. BLAIS DATED SEPTEMBER 10, 2020 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 10871 AT PAGE 623 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

26SP000625-250 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH COUNTY

CAROLINA,

CUMBERLAND

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Jeffrey Shaver to Heather Lovier, Trustee(s), which was dated October 20, 2023 and recorded on October 20, 2023 in Book 11843 at Page 734, Cumberland 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 October 7, 2026 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following

26SP000704-250 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH COUNTY

CAROLINA,

CUMBERLAND

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Billy Joe Burrell and spouse, Mary Jane Burrell to Hutchens Law Firm LLP Attn: Compliance Team, Trustee(s), which was dated November 22, 2022 and recorded on November 22, 2022 in Book 11622 at Page 320, Cumberland 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 30, 2026 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 26SP000662-250 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by KALEB VINYARD dated July 17, 2024 in the amount of $210,000.00 and recorded in Book 12018, Page 0369 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 12538, Page 0202, 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 September 28, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 0409-10-7903 ADDRESS: 359 SUMMER HILL RD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28303 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): KALEB VINYARD THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 12018, PAGE 0369, AS FOLLOWS:

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.

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 Cumberland County courthouse at 11:00AM on October 5, 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 Mark A. Blais, Jr. and Michaela M. Blais, dated September 10, 2020 to secure the original principal amount of $295,260.00, and recorded in Book 10871 at Page 623 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: 809 Pecan Grove Loop, Hope Mills, NC 28348

Tax Parcel ID: 0411-99-2588 Present Record Owners: Mark A. Blais, Jr. and Michaela M. Blais The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Mark A. Blais, Jr. and Michaela M. Blais. 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 September 15, 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:

described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit:

AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

BEING all of Lot 77, in a subdivision known as Chesnutt Hills, and the same being duly recorded in Plat Book 33, Page 40, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

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 Shaver.

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

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

door in Concord, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 5, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Davidson in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Situated in the County of Cabarrus, State of North Carolina: Being all of Lot Number 80 of Little, Carpenter & Austin’s “Westbrook Acres” Subdivision, according to survey and plat by James C. Gamble, R.L.S., dated June 1971, which plat is recorded in Plat Book 17 at Page 57 in the Cabarrus County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 9515 Seymour Lane, Davidson, North Carolina. Tax ID No: 46832926490000 (Parcel #) 03005b0057.000000 (TMP) 15099 (A/C #) Being the same property conveyed by Quit Claim Deed Grantor: Herman Kenneth Stoner Grantee: Evelyn P. Eller and Herman Kenneth Stoner, both unmarried dated: 05/16/2002 recorded: 06/13/2002 Doc#/Book-Page: 3859/140 Address: 9515 Seymour Ln, Davidson, NC 28036

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.

Parcel

ID:

0407-92-1986

Property Address: 5475 Lazybrook Court, Fayetteville, NC 28314 Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 5475 Lazybrook Ct, Fayetteville, NC 28314. 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

Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: Beginning at an existing iron stake, said stake being the northeast corner of the lot conveyed to Clement A. Price in deed Book 2371 at page 765, said stake also being in the western right-of-way of SR 2015 (30 feet from the center line), thence with the northern line of said Price lot N 72 degrees 12 minutes W 220.00 feet to an iron stake, said stake being the northwest corner of the said Price lot, thence N 10 degrees E. 125.00 feet to an iron stake, thence S 72 degrees 12 minutes E 220.00 feet to an iron stake in the western right-of-way of SR 2015, thence with the right-of-way of said SR 2015 S 10 degrees W 125.00 feet to the point of beginning, and being the same property conveyed to John Stewart and wife, Jamie L. Stewart by deed recorded in Book 8279, Page 800. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 1408 Seabrook School Road, Fayetteville, NC 28312. A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars

BEING ALL OF LOT 24 OF SUMMER HILL, SECTION TWO, AS SAMO IS SHOWN ON MAP THEREOF RECORDED IN BOOK OF PLATS 29 AT PAGE 57 OF THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY. PARCEL ID: 0409-10-7903 PROPERTY ADDRESS: 359 SUMMER HILL ROAD, FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28303 SAVE AND EXCEPT, HOWEVER, THERE IS RESERVED AND EXCEPTED HEREFROM, AND NOT CONVEYED HEREBY, ANY AND ALL INTEREST IN OIL, GAS, AND/ OR MINERALS, TITLE TO WHICH IS OUTSTANDING IN ANYONE OTHER THAN SELLER. THERE IS FURTHER RESERVED AND EXCEPTED UNTO SELLER, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, AND NOT CONVEYED HEREBY, ALL REMAINING OIL, GAS, AND OTHER MINERALS IN, ON, OR UNDERLYING, OR THAT MAY BE PRODUCED FROM, THE PROPERTY, TOGETHER WITH ALLRIGHTS AND POWERS INCIDENT THERETO, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, (I) BONUSES, RENTS, AND ROYALTIES RELATING THERETO FROM ANY EXISTING AND FUTURE OIL AND GAS LEASES, (II) THE PERPETUAL, FULL, AND ABSOLUTE RIGHTS AND POWERS TO ENTER THE SUBSURFACE OF THE PROPERTY, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, A SUBSURFACE EASEMENT FOR INGRESS AND EGRESS, TO SEARCH FOR AND DEVELOP OIL, GAS, OR OTHER MINERALS AND TO REMOVE, TRANSPORT, AND DISPOSE OF SUCH PRODUCTS, (II) THE EXCLUSIVE RIGHT TO NEGOTIATE FOR AND PROCURE OIL, GAS, AND MINERAL LEASES COVERING ANY OR ALL OF SUCH OIL, GAS, AND OTHER MINERALS, AND (IV) THE RIGHT TO SELL AND CONVEY ANY OR ALL SUCH OIL, GAS, OR OTHER MINERALS OR ANY OR ALL OF THE FOREGOING RIGHTS

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

($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 Billy Joe Burrell and spouse, Mary Jane Burrell.

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

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”.

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 filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the

AND POWERS. PROVIDED, HOWEVER, IN CONNECTION WITH THIS RESERVATION, SELLER HEREBY WAIVES FOR ITSELF, ITS SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS, ALL RIGHTS TO UTILIZE THE SURFACE OF THE PROPERTY FOR THE PURPOSE OF MINING, PRODUCING, TRANSPORTING, STORING, DRILLING AND EXPLORING FOR OIL, GAS AND OTHER MINERALS. PROVIDED FURTHER, HOWEVER, THIS WAIVER SHALL NOT BE CONSTRUED TO AFFECT THE RIGHT OF SELLER TO LEASE, DEVELOP AND/OR PRODUCE OIL, GAS AND OTHER MINERALS IN, ON, OR UNDER, OR THAT MAY BE PRODUCED FROM, THE PROPERTY, BY POOLING OR UNITIZATION OF THE PROPERTY WITH THE OTHER LANDS OR BY UTILIZING DIRECTIONAL OR HORIZONAL DRILLING FROM WELL SITES LOCATED ON LANDS OTHER THAN THE PROPERTY OR BY ANY OTHER DEVELOPMENT METHOD THAT DOES NOT INVOLVE UTILIZATION OF THE SURFACE OF THE PROPERTY. THIS SURFACE UTILIZATION WAIVER IS ALSO SUBJECT TO THE RIGHTS OF ANY LESSEE UNDER ANY EXISTING OIL, GAS AND MINERAL LEASE EFFECTING THE PROPERTY OR ANY PORTION THEREOF. 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

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: 19837 - 134919

26-124677

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.: 26-12660-FC01

confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 26-16584-FC01

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

B7

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND 25-121377 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 26SP000504-250 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY BENJAMIN K PIPPEN DATED MARCH 23, 2020 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 10723 AT PAGE 0650 AND MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED JUNE 2, 2023 IN BOOK 11747, PAGE 527; FURTHER MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED AUGUST 28, 2024 IN BOOK 12047, PAGE 566; FURTHER MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED JULY 2, 2025 IN BOOK 12273, PAGE 36 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY 25 SP 000968-250

CUMBERLAND

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Derek J. Greer and Jillian A. Greer, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of$262,995.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., (“MERS”) as beneficiary, as nominee for Guaranteed Rate, Inc., Mortgagee, dated April 30th, 2024 and recorded on April 30th, 2024 in Book 11960, Page 0078, Cumberland County Registry.

NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 11:00AM on October 8, 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 Benjamin K Pippen, dated March 23, 2020 to secure the original principal amount of $174,000.00, and recorded in Book 10723 at Page 0650 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

Trustee will offer for sale atthe courthouse door or other usual place ofsale in Cumberland County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on August 6th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Sale Date: September 28, 2026 at 2:00 PM Lying and being in the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina and being more particularly described as follows: Being all Lot of 35 in the Subdivision known as Hunters Crossing and the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 94, Page 56 Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with the improvements located thereon; said property located at 919 Foxhunt Lane, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 1922 Tinman Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28314 Tax Parcel ID: 9477-60-1925 Present Record Owners: Benjamin K. Pippen The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Benjamin K. Pippen. 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 12, 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:

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 thereofwith a maximum amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit offive percent (5%) ofthe 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.

if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and beliefofthe undersigned, the current owner(s) ofthe property is/are Derek Greer aka Derek J, Greer and Jillian Greer aka Jullian A. Greer.

effective date oftermination. 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 ofsuch 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.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.29 in favor ofthe purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the Clerk of Superior Court of the county in which the property. is sold.

25-121377

Third party purchasers must pay the recording costs of the trustee’s deed, any

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 ofwarranty 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,

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 ofsale, 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

Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will

expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 11:00AM on September 30, 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 Phillip B. Leggette, dated June 20, 2008 to secure the original principal amount of $65,750.00, and recorded in Book 7929 at Page 63 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: 4327 Frontier Avenue, Fayetteville, NC 28312 Tax Parcel ID: 0477-11-1337 Present Record Owners:

The Heirs of Phillip B. Leggette The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Phillip B. Leggette. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax

associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of

the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is July 31, 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:

26SP000590-250 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit:

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 Anthony Eugene Derry and wife, Charlotte L. Derry.

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.

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, after receiving the notice of

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

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

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

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

purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential real estate transactions to be reported to the federal government. If you are the successful bidder in this proceeding, you may be required to provide all applicable identifying information about yourself and, if applicable, any entity or trust purchasing the property. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this

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

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

Default having been made in the payment ofthe note thereby secured by the said Deed ofTrust 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 indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute

NOTICE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 26SP000451-250 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY PHILLIP B. LEGGETTE DATED JUNE 20, 2008 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 7929 AT PAGE 63 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE

NORTH COUNTY

CAROLINA,

CUMBERLAND

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Anthony Eugene Derry and Charlotte L. Derry to H. Terry Hutchens, Trustee(s), which was dated December 22, 2011 and recorded on December 23, 2011 in Book 08795 at Page 0627, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 919 Foxhunt Lane, Fayetteville, NC 28314 Tax ID: 9487-42-1165

BEING all of Lot Number 48 in a subdivision known as LAKE WILLIAM, SECTION TWO and the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 84, at page 95, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 8105 Dunholme Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28304.

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 30, 2026 at 01:30 PM, and

A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000469-250

door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on October 7, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 88, in a subdivision known as HAWTHORNE, SECTION TWO, PART ONE, according to a plat of same duly recorded in Book of Plats 73, Page 16, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1290 Exeter Lane, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Marcus O. Eley, Sr. and Myreah Michelle Eley (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Marcus Eley, Sr. and Myreah Eley) to The Law Office Jeffrey E Radford, Trustee(s), dated August 26, 2019, and recorded in Book No. 10573, at Page 0883 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on January 24, 2023, in Book No. 11658, at Page 0476 , 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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000778-250 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Cesar Alvarado and Alexis McClelland (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Cesar Alvarado) to Brock and Scott, Trustee(s), dated March 20, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 11698, at Page 0020 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on August 6, 2025, Document No. 24138, in Book No. 12298, at Page 0822 , 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

Said property to be offered pursuant to

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

PM on September 28, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain lot, parcel of land in the City of Fayetteville, Fayetteville City, Cumberland County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows (the “Property”): Being all of Lot 104 in a subdivision known as College Lakes, Section 12, Part 1, according to a plat of same duly recorded in Book of Plats 38, Page 23, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 442 Shoreline Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina. Being the same property as conveyed from Kyle A Doucette and spouse, Ashley Doucette to Cesar Alvarado and spouse, Alexis McClelland as set forth In Deed Book 11509 Page 0731 dated 06/07/2022, recorded 06/29/2022, CUMBERLAND County, NORTH CAROLINA. Parcel ID: 0520-96-7262 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

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

Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Tru· By: David Neill, NSB#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 25-002483-01

26-125357

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.: 26-04342-FC01

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: 28333 - 144853

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: 26625 - 166462

B8

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

TAKE NOTICE 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.

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. 4521.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the

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. 4521.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in

in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 99, in a subdivision known as Stone Creek, Section One, and the same being duly recorded in Plat Book 115, Page 177, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Parcel Identification No. 0478-11-4942 Property Address: 1828 Holloman Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28312 The street address of said property is 1828 Holloman Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28312. 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 Stone Creek of Eastover 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 14th day of August, 2026. BY: /S/ AnnMarie Taylor_ AnnMarie Taylor Attorney for Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. Hutchens Law Firm

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Daniel J. Maynor (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Daniel J. Maynor) to Union Service Corporation, Trustee(s), dated April 16, 2013, and recorded in Book No. 9164, at Page 682 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 September 28, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following

real estate situated in Linden in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 2, as shown on a plat entitled map for Marvin and Dora F Johnson, according to a plat of same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 102, Page 2, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 8016 Lane Road, Linden, North Carolina. It is the intention of this deed of trust to convey with the above described property that certain manufactured home located on said property which manufactured home has been converted to real estate and is more particularly described as one 2012 Champion with vehicle identification number 023-000-H-A00D424AB Parcel ID Number: 0562-29-7983 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. 4521.29 in favor of the purchaser and against

the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed 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.

DAVIDSON

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

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.

CUMBERLAND NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000567-250 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by M3B SFR, LLC (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): M3B SFR, LLC) to Angela DiTommaso, Trustee(s), dated February 2, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 11667, at Page 0077 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

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24SP000803-250 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Lachanda D. McMillian (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Lachanda D. McMillian) to Donald C. Hudson, Trustee(s), dated February 25, 2014, and recorded in Book No. 09383, at Page 0668 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on April 20, 2022, in Book No. 11451, at Page 0268 , 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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Publication 24, 2026

Dates: September and October 1, 2026

25SP001299-250 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 22, 2025 in Cumberland County File Number 25M000893-250 (the “Lien”) against Andrew Hedgecock and Ashley Campbell (“Respondents”), by Stone Creek of Eastover Homeowners Association, Inc. As the beneficiary of the Claim of Lien and pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47F-3-116, Stone Creek of Eastover 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 October 5, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 20SP000098-250

26SP000250-280 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DAVIDSON COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Stephen James Thorbergson to Black, Slaughter & Black, P.A., Trustee(s), which was dated July 19, 2024 and recorded on July 19, 2024 in Book 2658 at Page 2320, Davidson 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 October 5, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the

Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on September 28, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 56, in a subdivision known as Southgate, Section One, and same being duly recorded in Plat Book 36, Page 73 Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 7616 Southgate Road, Fayetteville, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying

Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on September 28, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 125, in a subdivision known as SADDLERIDGE, SECTION THREE, according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Book of Plats 110, Page 4, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3121 Walesby Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

BEING ALL OF LOT 48, AS SHOWN ON A PLAT ENTITLED OAK RIDGE SUBDIVISION PH 2 RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 88, PAGE 25, DAVIDSON COUNTY REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA. SUBJECT TO all prior easements and rights of way of record, including but not limited to that certain easement and right of way to Energy United Electric Membership Corporation as recorded in DB 2617, PG 2115, Davidson County Registry, North Carolina and a nonexclusive perpetual easement for ingress, egress and regress and the installation and maintenance of utilities along and across all roadways prior to dedication of same for public use, and such dedicated easements for utilities and drainage as shown on a plat map of Oak Ridge Subdivision Ph 2 recorded in Plat Book 88 Page 25, Davidson County Registry, North Carolina, to which reference is 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 303 Peacock Circle, Lexington, NC 27292.

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 Stephen James Thorbergson.

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

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: 24440 - 122252

which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice of foreclosure sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days but not more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in this notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm, LLP P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 22819 - 112161

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: 1236877 - 9634

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 Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 26-16319-FC01

of

B9

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

DAVIDSON NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 26SP000220-280 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by LINDSAY R. THOMPSON AND JADE E. THOMPSON dated June 22, 1999 in the amount of $71,174.00 and recorded in Book 1141, Page 1067 of the Davidson County Public Registry by ANTHONY MASELLI OR GENEVIEVE JOHNSON, EITHER OF WHOM MAY ACT, Substitute Trustee, default having been made in the terms of agreement set forth by the loan agreement secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, ANTHONY MASELLI OR GENEVIEVE JOHNSON, EITHER OF WHOM MAY ACT, having been substituted as Successor Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Official Records of Davidson County, North Carolina, in Book 2753, Page 1333, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Davidson County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on October 5, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Davidson, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 1800500000008C ADDRESS: 194 PEGGY LN LEXINGTON, NC 27295 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): LINDSAY R. THOMPSON AND JADE E. THOMPSON

DURHAM NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000045-310 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Edna Thompson and Parnell Thompson (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Parnell Thompson) to Heather Lovier, Trustee(s), dated October 12, 2021, and recorded in Book No. 9495, at Page 880 in Durham County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Durham County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Durham, Durham County, North Carolina, or the customary

NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF DURHAM GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 25CV007886-310 Nationstar Mortgage LLC, Plaintiff, vs. Edward Wando a/k/a Edward O. Wando; Any Spouse of Edward Wando a/k/a Edward O. Wando; United States of America; Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, Defendant(s).

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.

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.

of Trust, together with all unpaid taxes and assessments and any recorded releases. Neither the Commissioner nor the holder of the debt secured by such Deed of Trust, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Commissioner or the holder of the debt make any representation of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health, or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such conditions expressly are disclaimed. The Commissioner shall convey title to the property by non-warranty deed, without any covenants or warranties, express or implied.

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.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 1-339.29 (c) in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the judge or clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be 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

A certified check only (no personal checks) deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchasing price will be required at the time of the sale. Any successful bidder shall be required to tender the full balance of the purchase price of bid in cash or certified check at the time the Commissioner tenders a deed for the Property or attempts to tender such deed, and should said successful bidder fail to pay the full balance purchase price of bid at that time, said bidder shall remain liable on said bid as provided for under North Carolina law. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

Superior Court’s Office of Durham County, North Carolina, a civil action concerning one parcel of real property located at 2 Gamble Court, Durham, North Carolina 27712. You are required to make defense to such pleading no later than November 3, 2026 (40 days from date of first publication) and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought. This the 18th day of September 2026.

N.C. State Bar No. 44306 Bryce Ashby N.C. State Bar No. 61688 Post Office Box 2505 Fayetteville, NC 28302 Telephone: (910) 864-6888 Facsimile: (910) 864-6848 Claire.dickerhoff@hutchenslawfirm.com Bryce.ashby@hutchenslawfirm.com Attorneys for Plaintiff Dates of Publication: September 24, 2026; October 1, 2026; and October 8, 2026. 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

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.

RIGHT OF WAY; THENCE SOUTH 76 DEG. 49’ 40” EAST 342.16 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE SOUTH 45 DEG. 14’ 20” EAST 94.96 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE SOUTH 75 DEG. 18’ 25” EAST 91.58 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 6 DEG. 56’ 20” WEST 37.85 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 75 DEG. 18’ 25” WEST 68.30 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 45 DEG. 14’ 20” WEST 95.46 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 76 DEG. 49’ 45” WEST 363.12 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE SOUTH 4 DEG. 21’ 10” EAST 36.70 FEET TO THE POINT AND PLACE OF BEGINNING.

location designated for foreclosure sales, at 3:00 PM on September 29, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Durham in the County of Durham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Tax Id Number(s): 204479 Land situated in the City of Durham in the County of Durham in the State of NC Being all of Lot 281 Brightwood Trails Subdivision, as shown on Plat Book 170, Pages 182-190, Durham County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 815 Ember Drive, Durham, North Carolina. Commonly known as: 815 Ember Dr, Durham, NC 27703-9436 The property address and tax parcel identification number listed are provided solely for informational purposes. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by

The Property shall be sold together with improvements located thereon, towards satisfaction of the debt due by Edward O. Wando, and secured by the lien against such property in favor of Nationstar Mortgage LLC. The Commissioner will offer for sale to the highest bidder at a public auction at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on October 8, 2026 at 11:30 AM the following described real property (including all improvements thereon) located in Durham County, North Carolina and described as follows:

NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Jeremy B. Wilkins, Commissioner, pursuant to the Order/Judgment entered in the abovecaptioned case on July 17, 2026 (“Order”), and by virtue of the appointment, power and authority contained in that Order, has been authorized and ordered to sell the property commonly known as 912 Calumet Drive, Durham, NC 27704 (“Property”). Said Property is secured by the Deed of Trust executed by Edward O. Wando, dated March 27, 2023 and recorded on March 29, 2023 in Book 9887 at Page 925 of the Durham County, North Carolina Registry.

LYING ON THE NORTHERN SIDE OF CALUMET DIRVE, CONTAINING 12,527.984 SQUARE FEET, MORE OR LESS AND BEING ALL OF LOT 9 OF CALUMET HILL, AS PER PLAT AND SURVEY THEREOF NOW ON FILE IN PLAT BOOK 137 AT PAGE 210 IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF DURHAM COUNTY, TO WHICH PLAT REFERECE IS HEREBY EXPRESSLY MADE FOR A MORE PARTICULAR DESCRIPTION OF SAME.

NORTH CAROLINA DURHAM COUNTY

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. Substitute Trustee; Defendants.

The above described property will be sold, transferred and conveyed “AS IS, WHERE IS” subject to liens or encumbrances of record which are superior to such Deed

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FILE NO. 26CV008180-310

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION

FAY SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff, v. UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JEANETTE SINGLETARY; SHEADALE SINGLETARY, and Spouse of, if any; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; CITY OF DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA; and

TO: Sheadale Singletary Spouse of Sheadale Singletary, if any Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the above entitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: The Plaintiff in the above entitled action has filed with the Clerk of

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23SP000371-310

of Durham, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in the city of Durham, Oak Grove Redwood F.D. Township, Durham County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows:

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Tammy Renee Wilkins, Tammy Wilkins Stone and Steven Randall Stone (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Steven Randall Stone and Tammy Renee Wilkins and Tammy Wilkins Stone) to The Law Firm of Hutchens, Senter & Britton, P.A., Trustee(s), dated December 3, 2019, and recorded in Book No. 8850, at Page 490 in Durham County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Durham County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Durham, Durham County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 3:00 PM on October 6, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Durham in the County

THE ABOVE 1.646 ACRE TRACT IS SUBJECT TO A RIGHT OF WAY FOR INGRESS, EGRESS AND REGRESS AND THE MAINTENANCE AND INSTALLATION OF UTILITIES AND BEING AT ALL TIMES 35 FEET WIDE AND IMMEDIATELY ADJACENT TO THE FOLLOWING LINE: BEGINNING AT A POINT IN THE CENTER OF KOONTZ ROAD, THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF ARTHUR T. MORRISON’S TRACT AS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 1075, PAGE 513, CORNER TO PEGGY SHOAF EVANS PROPERTY AND RUNNING THENCE SOUTH 82 DEG. 40’ 05” EAST 598.38 FEET. 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

THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF DAVIDSON, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 1141, PAGE 1067, AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT IN THE CENTER OF KOONTZ ROAD, NCSR 1186, SAID POINT BEING THE SOUTHWESTERN CORNER OF ARTHUR T. MORRISON’S TRACT AS SHOWN IN DEED BOOK 1075, PAGE 513, AND RUNNING THENCE SOUTH 82 DEG, 40’ 05” EAST 598.38 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 7 DEG. 19’ 55” EAST 192.46 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 75 DEG. 18’ 25” WEST 222.07 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 45 DEG. 14’ 20” WEST 94.96 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE SOUTH 0 DEG. 58’ 25” WEST 245.13 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 82 DEG. 40’ 05” WEST 333.78 FEET TO A POINT IN THE CENTERLINE OF KOONTZ ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 0 DEG. 58’ 25” WEST 35.22 FEET TO THE POINT AND PLACE BEGINNING AND CONTAINING 1.646 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, AS SHOWN ON A SURVEY BY DAVIDSON SURVEYING & MAPPING DATED 9/2/98. FOR REFERENCE SEE DEED BOOK 1075, PAGE 513. ALSO CONVEYED HEREWITH IS THE FOLLOWING RIGHT OF WAY FOR INGRESS, EGRESS AND REGRESS AND THE MAINTENANCE AND INSTALLATION OF UTILITIES DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A POINT IN THE CENTERLINE OF KOONTZ ROAD, NCSR 1186, SAID POINT BEING THE FOLLOWING COURSES AND DISTANCES FROM THE SOUTHWESTERN CORNER OF ARTHUR T. MORRISON’S PROPERTY AS SHOWN IN DEED BOOK 1075, PAGE 513; THENCE NORTH 0 DEG. 58’ 30” EAST 286.63 FEET TO A POINT; THENCE NORTH 4 DEG. 21’ 10” WEST 29.18 FEET TO A POINT, SAID POINT BEING THE BEGINNING OF THE

Being all of Lots 70, 71, 72, and 73, as shown on plat of property Hudson Copley Subdivision as per plat and survey thereof now on file in the office of the Register of Deeds of Durham County in Plat Book 34, at Page 10, to which plat reference is hereby made for a more particular description of same. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3814 Mary Martin Road, Durham, North Carolina. Being the same property conveyed by Deed recorded in Book 2017, Page 731 of the Durham County, North Carolina Records. Subject to all easements, covenants, conditions, reservations, leases and restrictions of record, all legal highways, all rights of way, all zoning, building and other laws, ordinances and regulations, all rights of tenants in possession, and all real estate taxes and assessments not yet due and payable. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion,

FOUNDATION LEGAL GROUP, LLP By its Partner, HUTCHENS LAW FIRM LLP By: _/s/ Bryce Ashby__ Claire Collins Dickerhoff

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

Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current record owners of the property as reflected on the records of the DURHAM COUNTY Register of Deeds’ office not more than ten (10) days prior to the date hereof are Edward O. Wando.

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: 30024 - 155368

The sale will be reported to the court and will remain open for advance or upset bids for a period of ten (10) days as required by law. If the Commissioner 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 Commissioner. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Commissioner, 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. 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. JEREMY B. WILKINS, Commissioner 5431 Oleander Drive, Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 392-4988 Phone NCSales@brockandscott.com File No.: 24-15437-JUD01

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: 14258 - 62825

B10

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

FORSYTH 25SP001962-330 AMENDED 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 Ronald Penn III and Kala Penn to Keri Berryman, Trustee(s), which was dated June 2, 2021 and recorded on June 3, 2021 in Book RE 3614 at Page 4090, 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 October 1, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Forsyth

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 26SP000087-330 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by KATHERINE D HANSEN AND CODY LEIGH STEDMAN dated April 24, 2025 in the amount of $372,135.00 and recorded in Book 3859, Page 3070 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 3906, Page 3257, 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 October 6, 2026 at 2:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following

25-123859 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FORSYTH COUNTY 26SP000081-330 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY LARRY W. KENDRICK DATED APRIL 25, 2008 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 2827 AT PAGE 3961 AND MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED SEPTEMBER 22, 2022 IN BOOK 3719, PAGE 654 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

County, North Carolina, to wit: The Land referred to herein below is situated in the County of FORSYTH, State of NC, and is described as follows: BEGINNING at an existing iron pipe lying in the east right-of-way line of Salem Lake Road. Said iron marking the northwest corner of the Doss property as recorded in Deed Book 1227, Page 1315, Forsyth County Registry; running thence with the east right-of-way line of Salem Lake Road North 03°35’31” 167.03 feet to an existing iron located in the east right-of-way line of Salem Lake Road; running thence South 50°20’17 East 204.78 feet (crossing an iron at 114.73 feet) to an existing iron lying in the western line of the Cockrum property as recorded in Book 1409, Page 1557, Forsyth County Registry; running thence with the western line of the Cockrum property South 39°31’21” West 121.56 feet to an existing iron lying in the northern line of the above-referenced Doss property; running thence with the northern line of the Doss property North 50°24’00” West 90.61 feet to the point and place of BEGINNING, according to a survey by Phillip R. Ball, R.L.S. L-2107, for C.H. Little General Contractors, dated July 15, 1996, and being designated Job No. LS2099-A. Being informally known as Tax Lots 1A and 2B, Block 2594, Forsyth County Tax Maps. Being the same property as conveyed from Central Carolina Bank and Trust Company to Antonio Holland and wife, Pam Holland

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26CV012897-330 U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,

IREDELL NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 26SP000335-480 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by WILMA P NORMAN AKA WILMA L CAMPBELL AND RONALD L CAMPBELL dated September 26, 2002 in the amount of $92,625.66 and recorded in Book 1373, Page 1010 of the Iredell County Public Registry by ANTHONY MASELLI OR GENEVIEVE JOHNSON, EITHER OF WHOM MAY ACT, Substitute Trustee, default having been made in the terms of agreement set forth by the loan agreement secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, ANTHONY MASELLI OR GENEVIEVE JOHNSON, EITHER OF WHOM MAY ACT , having been substituted as Successor Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Official Records of Iredell County, North Carolina, in Book 3221, Page 269, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Iredell County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on October 8, 2026 at 2:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Iredell, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 4766364154000

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 26SP000275-480 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by PHILIP EMORY AND BRITTANY JANELL WATTS dated June 28, 2023 in the amount of $336,300.00 and recorded in Book 3000, Page 1533 of the Iredell County Public Registry by ANTHONY MASELLI OR GENEVIEVE JOHNSON, EITHER OF WHOM MAY ACT, Substitute Trustee, default having been made in the terms of agreement set forth by the loan agreement secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, ANTHONY MASELLI OR GENEVIEVE JOHNSON, EITHER OF WHOM MAY ACT, having been substituted as Successor Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Official Records of Iredell County, North Carolina, in Book 3215, Page 1620, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Iredell County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on October 6, 2026 at 2:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 1205 Salem Lake Road, Winston Salem, NC 27107. 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 Ronald Penn III and spouse, Kala Penn. 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, 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.: 23-24082-FC02

real estate situated in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 6818-27-2127.000 ADDRESS: 5085 COBBLESTONE RD WINSTON SALEM, NC 27106 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): KATHERINE D HANSEN AND CODY LEIGH STEDMAN THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF FORSYTH, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 3859, PAGE 3070, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 13 OF MORAVIAN FOREST, SECTION II, AS SHOWN ON THAT PLAT RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 31, PAGES 192-194 IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF FORSYTH COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA. PARCEL 1D # 6818-27-2127.000 PROPERTY ADDRESS: 5085 COBBLESTONE ROAD, WINSTON-SALEM, NC 27106 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.

and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Forsyth County courthouse at 11:00AM on September 30, 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 Larry W. Kendrick, dated April 25, 2008 to secure the original principal amount of $138,720.00, and recorded in Book 2827 at Page 3961 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: 312 Tanbark Lane, Kernersville, NC 27284 Tax Parcel ID: 6895-26-4170

Present Record Owners: Larry Wayne Kendrick The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Larry Wayne Kendrick. 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 12, 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:

PUBLICATION

encumbering real property located at:

This the 24th day of August 2026.

TO:

898 Shalimar Drive Winston Salem, NC 27107

HUTCHENS LAW FIRM LLP /s/ Stephanie Lindor Stephanie Lindor N.C. Bar No.: 62516 6230 Fairview Road, Suite 315 Charlotte, NC 28210 Telephone: (704) 362 9255 Attorney for Plaintiff

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA FORSYTH COUNTY

as set forth in Deed Book 2015 Page 696 dated 07/21/1998, recorded 07/21/1998, FORSYTH County, NORTH CAROLINA.

Plaintiff, v. DARLENE A. NELUMS; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; and SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE Defendants.

DARLENE A. NELUMS 898 Shalimar Drive Winston Salem, NC 27107

Take notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the aboveentitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows:

You are required to make defense to such pleading no later than October 6, 2026 or forty-three (43) days from the date of this notice, and upon your failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.

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

25-123859

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY

Judicial Foreclosure of a Deed of Trust

ADDRESS: 698 ALLEN CREEK RD STATESVILLE, NC 28625 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): RONALD L CAMPBELL AND SONYA NORMANSIMPSON THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF IREDELL, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 1373, PAGE 1010, AS FOLLOWS: A CERTAIN LOT OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN THE COOL SPRINGS TOWNSHIP, IREDELL COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA AND MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: TRACT ONE: BEGINNING AT AN EXISTING RAILROAD SPIKE IN THE CENTERLINE OF SR 2160, SAID RAILROAD SPIKE BEING LOCATED SOUTH 13 DEG. 55 MIN. 26 SEC. WEST FROM THE INTERSECTION OF THE CENTERLINE OF SR 2169 AND SR 2160; THENCE NORTH 78 DEG. 03 MIN.19 SEC. WEST 259.24 FEET TO AN IRON PIN SET IN THE LINE OF KATTIE STEVENSON (DEED BOOK 89, PAGE 70) AND RUNNING THENCE SOUTH 13 DEG. 55 MIN. 26 SEC. WEST 12.19 FEET TO AN IRON PIN SET; AND RUNNING THENCE SOUTH 80 DEG. 44 MIN. 14 SEC. EAST 260 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, AND CONTAINING 1,579.50 SQUARE FEET, MORE OR LESS, AND BEING PLATTED AND PLANNED BY L.B. GRIER, REGISTERED SURVEYOR, ON AUGUST 20, 1990, AND BEING A SURVEY FOR WILMA P. NORMAN. TRACT TWO: BEGINNING AT AN EXISTING RAILROAD SPIKE IN THE CENTER OF SR 2160, SAID SPIKE BEING LOCATED SOUTH 13 DEG. 55 MIN. 26 SEC. WEST 176.71 FEET FROM THE INTERSECTION OF THE CENTERLINE OF SR 2169 AND SR 2160; THENCE SOUTH 13 DEG. 55 MIN.

26 SEC. WEST 84.20 FEET TO A NAIL SET IN THE CENTERLINE OF SR 2160; RUNNING THENCE WITH THE LINE OF MARGARET PARKER (DEED BOOK 678, PAGE 204) NORTH 80 DEG. 44 MIN. 14 SEC. WEST 260.00 FEET TO AN IRON PIN SET IN THE LINE OF PARKER; RUNNING THENCE NORTH 13 DEG. 55 MIN. 26 SEC. EAST 84.2 FEET TO AN IRON PIN SET; AND RUNNING THENCE SOUTH 80 DEG. 44 MIN. 14 SEC. EAST 260 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNLNG, AND CONTALNING .50 ACRES, MORE OR LESS, AS PLATTED AND PLANNED HY L. B. GRIER, REGISTERED SURVEYOR ON THE 20TH DAY OF AUGUST, 1990, AND BEING A SURVEY FOR WILMA P. NORMAN. BY FEE SIMPLE DEED FROM ROY A. PARKER AND WIFE, MARGARET LOUISE PARKER AS SET FORTH IN BOOK 819, PAGE 112 DATED 02/26/1991 AND RECORDED 03/01/1991, IREDELL COUNTY RECORDS, STATE OF 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.

for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Iredell, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 4658610573.000 ADDRESS: 115 THORSEN DR MOORESVILLE, NC 28117 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): PHILIP EMORY AND SPOUSE, BRITTANY JANELL WATTS THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF IREDELL, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 3000, PAGE 1533, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 93 OF GREENECROFT, PHASE ONE, AS SAME IS SHOWN ON PLAT RECORDED AMONG THE LAND RECORDS OF IREDELL COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA PUBLIC REGISTRY AT MAP BOOK 41, PAGE 86. PARCEL NO.4658610573.000 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.

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

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

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

IREDELL NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA IREDELL COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26CV000414-480 LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff, V. ALBA NYDIA PINO LOPEZ, SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT and SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC., -Substitute Trustee Defendant(s). NOTICE OF SALE OF REAL PROPERTY

JOHNSTON 26SP000295-500 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 Jacob Tyler Padre a/k/a J. Padre and Elizabeth Joy Padre a/k/a E. Padre to Cristina Zorrilla And Jackie Biggs, Trustee(s), which was dated July 14, 2023 and recorded on July 14, 2023 in Book 6509 at Page 525, Johnston County Registry, North Carolina.

130 VECTRA DRIVE STATESVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA 28625 UNDER AND BY VIRTUE of the power and authority contained in that certain Order filed on JULY 15, 2026, in the above-captioned matter and pursuant to applicable law, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. as Commissioner (the “Commissioner”) will place for sale, at public auction, to the highest bidder for cash at the usual place of sale at the IREDELL COUNTY COURTHOUSE- 226 Stockton Street Statesville, NC 28677 on OCTOBER 1, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. that certain parcel of land, including improvements thereon, situated, lying and being in the County of Iredell, State of North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lots 5 and 6 of Forest Meadows Subdivision, Section Four, as platted, planned, and recorded at Plat Book 29 at Page 87, Iredell County Registry. Together with all right title and interest in and to the manufactured home located upon Lot 5 being more particularly described as

follows: Manufacture’s Serial No.: P1410GA11495 HUD Cert. Label: GEO980664/ GEO980665 Manufacturer’s Make: Pioneer Housing System Date of Manufacturer: 11/22/1996 Address of property: 130 Vectra Drive Statesville, NC 28625 Parcel Number(s): 4705 72 9400 000 / 4705 72 9620 000 Present Record Owners: Johnson, Russell A. etux Alba Nydia Pino Lopez The terms of the sale are that the real property hereinbefore described will be sold to the highest bidder. The Commissioner reserves the right to require certified funds not to exceed the greater of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00). The successful bidder shall also be required to pay revenue stamps on the Commissioner’s Deed, any Land Transfer Tax, and the tax required by N.C.G.S. Section 7A-308(a)(1)

unless the person entitled to enforce the instrument is exempt from paying these sums. The real property hereinabove described is being offered for sale “AS IS, WHERE IS” and will be sold subject to all superior liens, unpaid taxes, and special assessments. The Commissioner reserves the right to sell the real property either as a group or on an individual basis whichever will bring the highest bid(s). Other conditions will be announced at the sale. The sale will be held open for ten (10) days for upset bids as by law required.

or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on September 29, 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:

AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR 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.

BEING all of Lot 1, Block 13, as shown on plat entitled: “The Village at Clevelland Springs, Lot “A” a/k/a Cleveland Springs, recorded in Map Book 73, Page 23, Johnston County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for greater certainty of description. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 5 Crosby Ln, Garner, NC 27529.

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

25SP000285-500 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

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

NORTH CAROLINA, JOHNSTON COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Joshua T. Hocutt to NSB Trustee Services LLC, Trustee(s), which was dated March 11, 2019 and recorded on March 11, 2019 in Book 5307 at Page 429, Johnston County Registry, North Carolina.

BEING all of Lot 3, as shown on map entitled “Minor Subdivision for Johnny Hocutt” recorded in Plat Book 88, Page 259, Johnston County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 9423 Applewhite Road, Wendell, NC 27591.

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 Elizabeth Joy Padre and Jacob Tyler Padre. 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 Commissioner 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 Commissioner. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Commissioner,

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

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 Joshua T Hocutt, unmarried.

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.

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

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”.

in its sole discretion, if he believes the challenge to have merit, may 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. 1-339.29 against the party or parties to the proceeding in possession by the presiding judge or clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Respectfully submitted this the 6th day of August 2026 HUTCHENS LAW FIRM LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff /s/ Jodi E. Robertson Jodi E. Robertson, Esq. N.C. Bar No. 61090 6230 Fairview Road Suite 315 Charlotte, NC 28210 Telephone: (704) 362-9255 E-mail: jodi.robertson@hutchenslawfirm. com

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.: 26-00011-FC01

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.

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 29, 2026 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the

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,

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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 26SP000323-500

more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 05G02061Q ADDRESS: 1509 KENMORE DRIVE CLAYTON, NC 27520 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): ETIENNE PROPHETE THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF JOHNSTON, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 6074, PAGE 516, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF UNIT 16-1509, THE POINTE AT AMELIA VILLAGE CONDOMINIUM AS DESIGNATED AND DESCRIBED IN THE DECLARATION FOR AMELIA VILLAGE CONDOMINIUM PURSUANT TO CHAPTER 47C OF THE NORTH CAROLINA GENERAL STATUTES (THE “DECLARATION”) RECORDED MAY 21, 2003, IN DEED BOOK 2456, PAGE 665, AND AMENDED IN DEED BOOK 2957, PAGE 21, JOHNSTON COUNTY REGISTRY, (SEE CONDOMINIUM FILE NO. 1, PAGES 1-18 FOR PLANS), TOGETHER WITH A 2.50 PERCENT UNDIVIDED INTEREST IN THE COMMON AREAS AND FACILITIES AND LIMITED COMMON AREAS AND FACILITIES THEREIN TO BE APPURTENANT TO SAID UNIT. 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.

real estate situated in Benson in the County of Johnston, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 33 as shown on a plat entitled “Final Subdivision Plat for Benson Village, Phase 1, Sheet 1-4” by CMP Professional Land Surveyors and recorded in Plat Book 99, Pages 498-501 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Johnston County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 110 Benson Village Drive, Benson, North Carolina.

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

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

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

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

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 New Hanover County courthouse at 11:00AM on September 29, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in New Hanover County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed William H. Jones, dated January 27, 2015 to secure the original principal amount of $103,000.00, and recorded in Book 5864 at Page 1467 of the New Hanover 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: 4609 Long Leaf Hills Drive, Wilmington, NC 28409 Tax Parcel ID:

R06111-006-004-000 Present Record Owners: William H. Jones The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are William H. Jones. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid

or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice

to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is September 9, 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:

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by ETIENNE PROPHETE dated October 8, 2021 in the amount of $132,375.00 and recorded in Book 6074, Page 516 of 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 7093, Page 890, 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 29, 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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000071-500 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Brittany Kimbrough (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Brittany Kimbrough) to BB&T Collateral Services Corporation, Trustee(s), dated May 31, 2024, and recorded in Book No. 6680, at Page 823 in Johnston County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Johnston County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Smithfield, Johnston County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on October 6, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following

NEW HANOVER 26-126779 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION NEW HANOVER COUNTY 26SP000428-640 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY WILLIAM H. JONES DATED JANUARY 27, 2015 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 5864 AT PAGE 1467 AND MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED OCTOBER 15, 2024 IN BOOK 6735, PAGE 382 IN THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced

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 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.: 25-13959-FC01

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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o 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: 27943 - 142596

26-126779

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

ONSLOW NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP001317-660 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Robin Lore Lee (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Robin Lore Lee) to National Title Network, Trustee(s), dated May 7, 2012, and recorded in Book No. 3778, at Page 868 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on August 31, 2017, in Book No. 4667, at Page 743 , default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on September 30, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Richlands in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows:

RANDOLPH 25-123985 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION RANDOLPH COUNTY 25SP000372-750 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JAIME ELIZABETH FOLEY AND JOSEPH B. FOLEY DATED AUGUST 24, 2016 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 2508 AT PAGE 826 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 25SP000265-750 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by THOMAS W WADE AND JANET M WADE dated April 13, 2000 in the amount of $53,585.61 and recorded in Book 1656, Page 359 of the Randolph 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 Randolph County, North Carolina, in Book 2979, Page 1416, 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 Randolph County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales,

ROBESON NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, ROBESON COUNTY 26 SP 000208-770 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Allied Investors Group, LLC, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $91,000.00, to Kiavi Funding, Inc., Mortgagee, dated August 8th, 2025 and recorded on August 11th, 2025 in Book 2532, Page 119, Robeson 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 Robeson 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 Robeson

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000177-770 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Roselyn McKoy (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Roselyn McKoy) to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), dated August 14, 2017, and recorded in Book No. D2097, at Page 641 in Robeson 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 Robeson 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 Lumberton, Robeson County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 2:30 PM on October 7, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Lumberton in the County of Robeson, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows:

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.

deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Randolph County courthouse at 11:00AM on October 1, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Randolph County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Jaime Elizabeth Foley and Joseph B. Foley, dated August 24, 2016 to secure the original principal amount of $142,755.00, and recorded in Book 2508 at Page 826 of the Randolph County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 1528

Hoover Hill Road, Asheboro, NC 27205 Tax Parcel ID: 7713-22-2047 Present Record Owners: Jaime Elizabeth Foley The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Jaime Elizabeth Foley. 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 5, 2026. __________________ ___________________ Ellen Wiggins N.C. State Bar No. #55909 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cliff Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By:

on September 29, 2026 at 2:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Randolph, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 7796964634 ADDRESS: 4410 OAK HILL DR CLIMAX, NC 27233 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): THOMAS W WADE THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF RANDOLPH, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 1656, PAGE 359, AS FOLLOWS: BEING TRACT #9, TIMBER TRAILS SUBDIVISION, SHOWN ON PLAT, RECORDED IN PLAT BOOK 25, PAGE 15, IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS FOR RANDOLPH COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA. TAX MAP OR PARCEL ID NO.: 7796964634 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.

County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on September 29th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: All that certain piece, parcel or lot of land, with the improvements thereon, situate, lying and being in the City of Fairmont, County of Robeson, State of North Carolina, the same being shown and designated as follows: Located on the Western side of Park Avenue in the Town of Fairmont and being all of Lot No. Nineteen (19) in Block R of Fisher Park as shown on a map of same duly recorded in Robeson County Registry in Book of Maps No. 7, page 69, reference to which map is hereby made for a more particular description of said lands. Said lot has a 75 feet frontage on Park Avenue and runs back in parallel line for a depth of 150 feet. This conveyance is made subject to the Fisher Park Restrictive Covenants as appear of record in Book 10-K, page 16, Robeson County Registry. This is the same property conveyed to Johnny L. Christian and wife, Lucille M. Christian by deed of Vernon K. Whitley, Jr. and wife, Marilyn P. Whitley, dated 06/04/2002 and recorded 06/12/2002 in the Office of the Register of Deeds for Robeson County, North Carolina in Book

1236, Page 848. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 602 Park Avenue, Fairmont, NC 28340 Tax ID: 300703021 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 Allied Investors Group 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.

That lot of land in the City of Lumberton, North Carolina, located on the south side of 17th Street, fronting 54 feet on said street and being 108 feet deep and being all of Lot No. 1, Block 732 of the Mrs. Kate P. McLeod Subdivision as shown on a plat of said subdivision duly registered in the Book of Official Maps No. 3, at Page 16 of the Robeson County Registry, to which reference to said map is hereby made and the provisions incorporated by reference herein as fully and as completely as if set out here. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 207 West 17th Street, Lumberton, North Carolina. The above described lot or parcel of land is that same lot conveyed to Charles A. Halliburton and wife, Julia F. Halliburton, by Kenneth Gustave Paul and wife, Angela Pettigrew Paul, by deed dated May 26, 1993, and recorded in Book 795, Page 0231, Robeson County Registry, reference to the same being hereby made for a description of greater certainty.

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.

The land referred to herein below is situated in the County of Onslow, State of North Carolina, and is described as follows: SURVEY TIE DOWN COMMENCES at a PK nail (POINT # 38) at the intersection of the centerline of NC HWY 111 (near DAILS LANE) ; thence North 40 degrees 41 minutes 54 seconds West 109.78 feet to a PK Nail (POINT # 39) at the intersection of the centerline of NCSR 1248 and NC HWY 111; thence North 43-06-09 West 525.56 feet to a computed point (19); thence North 06-06-18 West 50.00 feet to an existing iron stake (18) on the Eastern edge of OLD FOUNTAIN ROAD; thence North 12-28-55 West 348.64 feet to an existing iron stake (114) in the center of OLD FOUNTAIN ROAD at the Southwest corner of LOT 2 MB 18 PG 54, THE TRUE POINT OF BEGINNING; thence with the centerline of OLD FOUNTAIN ROAD North 14-12-46 West 312.02 feet to an existing iron stake (121); thence with the Northern line of Lot 2 MB 18 PG 54, North 85-56-31 East 15. 10 feet to an existing concrete monument (16), and North 8556-31 East 731.85 feet to an iron stake (125) ; thence with a new line, South 03-36-53 East 312.47 feet to an iron stake (126) in the Southern line of LOT 2 MB 18 PG 54; thence with said line and the centerline of a 30 foot wide ingress and egress easement, South 86-23-07 West 674.44 feet to an existing concrete monument (118), and South 86-23-07 West 15.10 feet to the Point of Beginning. Containing 5.11 acres including land inside the OLD FOUNTAIN ROAD (contains 5.00 Acres not including land inside OLD FOUNTAIN ROAD), and being

a portion of LOT 2 MB 18 PG 54, Onslow County Registry. The courses contained within are reference to North as per DB 272 PG 575. This conveyance includes the use of the OLD FOUNTAIN ROAD (which is an old public road and is shown as being 30 feet wide of MB 18 PG 54) and the use of the 30 foot wide ingress and egress easement referred to in this description (the centerline of said easement runs from POINT # 126 TO point #114). Surveyed by Dennis Manning Surveying on August 1, 1992. And being the same property described in DB 1070 PG 136 AND all maps shown therein are incorporated herein by reference.

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

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: 25920 - 130683

25-123985

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 26-002876-01

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: 32430 - 169814

B13

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

ROBESON 26-126550 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ROBESON COUNTY 26SP000201-770 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY CATHY HUNT DATED JULY 6, 2006 AND RECORDED IN BOOK D 1546 AT PAGE 630 IN THE ROBESON 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

26-126747 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ROBESON COUNTY 26SP000203-770 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JOHN C. ADAMS AND ANGELETTIA ADAMS DATED APRIL 22, 2022 AND RECORDED IN BOOK D 2343 AT PAGE 782 IN THE ROBESON 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 22SP000333-770 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Johnny Bender Ferguson and Celestine Frazier (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Johnny Bender Ferguson) to S. Nunnery, Trustee(s), dated August 30, 2005, and recorded in Book No. D 1487, at Page 51 in Robeson 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 Robeson 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 Lumberton, Robeson County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 2:30 PM on October 7, 2026 and will sell to

UNION 26SP000093-890 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, UNION COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Edna M. Burns to A. Grant Whitney, Trustee(s), which was dated March 31, 2015 and recorded on March 31, 2015 in Book 6412 at Page 128, Union 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

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 11:00AM on September 30, 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 Cathy Hunt, dated July 6, 2006 to secure the original principal amount of $59,073.00, and recorded in Book D 1546 at Page 630 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: 14000 NC Highway 72 East, Lumberton, NC 28358 Tax Parcel ID:

03140103806 Present Record Owners: Cathy Hunt The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Cathy Hunt. 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 September 11, 2026. __________________ ___________________ Ellen Wiggins N.C. State Bar No. #55909 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cliff Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By:

of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Robeson County courthouse at 11:00AM on September 30, 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 John C. Adams and Angelettia Adams, dated April 22, 2022 to secure the original principal amount of $304,385.00, and recorded in Book D 2343 at Page 782 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: 3690 Kale Drive, Lumberton, NC 28358 Tax Parcel ID: 320401012 Present Record Owners:

John Clay Adams and Angelettia Adams The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are John Clay Adams and Angelettia Adams. 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 September 11, 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:

the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Lumberton in the County of Robeson, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain parcel of land in Lumberton Township, City of Lumberton, Robeson County, State of NC, as more fully described in Book 973, Page 0766 ID #353503021, Being known and designated as Lots 18,19,20,21,22, Block C Norment Forest, filed in Book of Maps No. 7 at Page 114: made by W.B. Jennings, Surveyor. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1401 6th Street East, Lumberton, 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 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 courthouse for conducting the sale on October 6, 2026 at 12:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Union County, North Carolina, to wit:

DEED.

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

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

BEING all of Lot 61 CHARLESTOWN AT BREKONRIDGE PHASE 2 as shown on that plat recorded in PLAT CABINET J, PAGE 364-367, UNION County Registry, to which reference 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 2820 Hopeton Court, Monroe, NC 28110. 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

26SP000013-890 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Union County, North Carolina, to wit:

NORTH CAROLINA, UNION COUNTY

BEING all of Lot 11, Block J of HEMBY ACRES, SECTION III as shown in Map Book 6 at Page 154 of the Union County, North Carolina, Public Registry.

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Billie E. Broome and Cristal C. Broome to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), which was dated January 17, 2014 and recorded on January 30, 2014 in Book 6172 at Page 140, Union 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 October 6, 2026 at 12:30 PM, and will sell

WAKE NOTICE OF DEFAULT AND FORECLOSURE SALE WHEREAS, on December 21, 2011, a certain Deed of Trust was executed by Marilyn Druley, “Mortgagor(s)” in favor of One Reverse Mortgage, LLC, “Mortgagee” and was recorded on January 6, 2012, in Book 14604, Page 2260 in the Official Land Records of Wake County, North Carolina; and WHEREAS, the Deed of Trust was insured by the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (the Secretary) pursuant to the National Housing Act for the purpose of providing single family housing; and WHEREAS, the Mortgage is now owned by the Secretary, pursuant to an assignment dated April 10, 2017 and recorded on April 17, 2017, in Book 16752, Page 839 in the Official Records of Wake County, North Carolina; and WHEREAS, a default has been made in the covenants and conditions of the Mortgage in that the Borrower has died and the Property is not the principal residence of at least one surviving borrower, and the outstanding balance remains wholly unpaid as of the date of this notice, and no payment has been made sufficient to restore the loan to currency; and WHEREAS, the entire amount delinquent as of August 6, 2026 is $246,871.69; and WHEREAS, by virtue of this default, the Secretary has declared the entire amount of the indebtedness secured by the Mortgage

Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 8107 Hemby Wood Drive, Indian Trail, NC 28079. 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

to be immediately due and payable; NOW THEREFORE, pursuant to powers vested in me by the Single Family Mortgage Foreclosure Act of 1994, 12 U.S.C. 3751 et seq., by 24 CFR part 27, subpart B, and by the Secretary’s designation of me as Foreclosure Commissioner, recorded on July 16, 2024 in Book 19661, Page 1244, notice is hereby given that on October 8, 2026 at 2:00 PM local time, all real and personal property at or used in connection with the following described premises (“Property”) will be sold at public auction to the highest bidder: Beginning at an iron stake in the eastern right of way line of Knott Drive, said point of beginning being located 300.6 feet in a northwesterly direction along the eastern right of way line of Knott Drive from the intersection of the eastern right of way line of Knott Drive and the northern right of way line of Pair Street; runs thence from said point of beginning with the eastern right of way line of Knott Drive North 25 degrees 34 minutes West 150.00 feet to an iron stake, corner of Lot 58; runs thence with the line of Lot 58 South 89 degrees 31 minutes 18 seconds East 248.67 feet to an iron stake in the line of Lot 53; runs thence with the line of Lots 53 and 54 South 18 degrees 40 minutes 30 seconds West 90.1 feet to an iron stake; runs thence with the northern line of Lot 56 South 72 degrees 50 minutes 30 seconds West 162.3 feet to an iron stake in the eastern right of way line of Knott Drive, the point and place of beginning and being all of Lot 57, Robinhood Forest. Commonly known as 206 Knott Drive, Knightdale, NC 27545 Parcel ID#: 0039793 The sale will be held at the WAKE County Courthouse, 316 Fayetteville Street

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 Edna M. Burns.

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”.

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

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

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 Cristal C. Broome.

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 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

Mall, Raleigh, NC 27601, at the location designated by the Clerk of Court for public auctions.

form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of HUD. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due. If the high bidder is unable to close the sale within the required period, or within any extensions of time granted by the Secretary, the high bidder may be required to forfeit the cash deposit or, at the election of the foreclosure commissioner after consultation with the HUD representative, will be liable to HUD for any costs incurred as a result of such failure. The Commissioner may, at the direction of the HUD representative, offer the property to the second highest bidder for an amount equal to the highest price offered by that bidder. There is no right of redemption, or right of possession based upon a right of redemption, in the mortgagor or others subsequent to a foreclosure completed pursuant to the Act. Therefore, the Foreclosure Commissioner will issue a Deed to the purchaser(s) upon receipt of the entire purchase price in accordance with the terms of the sale as provided herein. HUD does not guarantee that the property will be vacant. The scheduled foreclosure sale shall be cancelled or adjourned if it is established, by documented written application of the mortgagor to the Foreclosure Commissioner not less than 3 days before the date of sale, or otherwise, that the default or defaults upon which the foreclosure is based did not exist at the time of service of this notice of default and foreclosure sale, or all amounts due under the mortgage agreement are tendered to the Foreclosure Commissioner, in the form of a certified or

The Secretary of Housing and Urban Development will bid $253,062.37. There will be no proration of taxes, rents or other income or liabilities, except that the purchaser will pay, at or before closing, his prorata share of any real estate taxes that have been paid by the Secretary to the date of the foreclosure sale. When making their bids, all bidders except the Secretary must submit a deposit totaling $25,306.24_(10% of the Secretary’s bid), in the form of a certified check or cashier’s check made out to the Secretary of HUD. A deposit need not accompany each oral bid. If the successful bid is oral, a deposit of $25,306.24 must be presented before the bidding is closed. The deposit is nonrefundable. The remainder of the purchase price must be delivered within 30 days of the sale or at such other time as the Secretary may determine for good cause shown, time being of the essence. This amount, like the bid deposits, must be delivered in the form of a certified or cashier’s check. If the Secretary is the highest bidder, he need not pay the bid amount in cash. The successful bidder will pay all conveying fees, all real estate and other taxes that are due on or after the delivery date of the remainder of the payment and all other costs associated with the transfer of title. At the conclusion of the sale, the deposits of the unsuccessful bidders will be returned to them. The Secretary may grant an extension of time within which to deliver the remainder of the payment. All extensions will be for 15day increments for a fee of $500.00, paid in advance. The extension fee shall be in the

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”.

26-126550

26-126747

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: 3303 - 8240

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.: 25-35542-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.: 25-26746-FC01

cashier’s check payable to the Secretary of HUD, before public auction of the property is completed. The amount that must be paid if the mortgage is to be reinstated prior to the scheduled sale is $246,871.69 as of August 6, 2026, plus all other amounts that would be due under the mortgage agreement if payments under the mortgage had not been accelerated, advertising costs and postage expenses incurred in giving notice, mileage by the most reasonable road distance for posting notices and for the Foreclosure Commissioner’s attendance at the sale, reasonable and customary costs incurred for title and lien record searches, the necessary out-of-pocket costs incurred by the Foreclosure Commissioner for recording documents, a commission for the Foreclosure Commissioner, and all other costs incurred in connection with the foreclosure prior to reinstatement. Tender of payment by certified or cashier’s check or application for cancellation of the foreclosure sale shall be submitted to the address of the Foreclosure Commissioner provided below. Date: 8/10/26 David W. Neill, NCSB 23396 MCMICHAEL TAYLOR GRAY, LLC Foreclosure Commissioner 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 Phone: 404.474.7149 Fax: 404.745.8121 Email: dneill@mtglaw.com NC2025-00140 26M003087-910

B14

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

WAKE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP001663-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Dinkar Patalay and Niharika Gudala (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Dinkar Patalay and Niharika Gudala) to Jackson Law, PC, Trustee(s), dated July 18, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 019090, at Page 02748 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

26-125306 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 26SP000991-910 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY NORWOOD ROSS BOYETTE AND LINDA J. BOYETTE DATED NOVEMBER 30, 2020 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 18223 AT PAGE 1237 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP001835-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Clyde L. Devinney (deceased) and Beverly L. Devinney (deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Clyde L. Devinney and Beverly L. Devinney) to Hilton T. Hutchens, Jr. Esq., Trustee(s), dated May 19, 2021, and recorded in Book No. 018512, at Page 02243 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 September 28, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Raleigh in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: File No.: 986313 The Land referred to herein below is situated in the County of WAKE, State of NC, and is described as follows:

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP001636-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by PLJS Properties, LLC, a North Carolina Limited Liability Company (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): PLJS Properties, LLC, a North Carolina Limited Liability Company) to Lowery Law Offices, Trustee(s), dated June 25, 2024, and recorded in Book No. 019648, at Page 01110 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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000237-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Vipul Kumar and Karuna Kumar (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Vipul Kumar and Karuna Kumar) to Chicago Title, Trustee(s), dated November 24, 2021, and recorded in Book No. 018821, at Page 00910 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 October 5, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following

25CV036879-910 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in a judgments bearing the caption “Lakeview Loan Servicing, LLC, Plaintiff, v. Hasani Omare Stapleton; Karisma Nicole Stapleton; Secretary of Housing and Urban Development; and Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. Substitute Trustee; Defendants” 25CV036879-

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 Wake County courthouse at 11:00AM on October 1, 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 Norwood Ross Boyette and Linda J. Boyette, dated November 30, 2020 to secure the original principal amount of $199,253.00, and recorded in Book 18223 at Page 1237 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: 601 Coventry Drive, Zebulon, NC 27597 Tax Parcel ID: 0095351 Present Record Owners:

The Heirs of Norwood Ross Boyette The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Norwood Ross Boyette. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit

of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any resale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing. SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was

renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. The date of this Notice is July 31, 2026. __________________ ___________________ Ellen Wiggins N.C. State Bar No. #55909 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee ewiggins@logs.com LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cliff Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By:

All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in the Marks Creek Township, Wake County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows:

Page 704, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1941 Hilltop Road, Raleigh, North Carolina.

Beginning at a new iron pipe in the southern right-of-way line of Hilltop Road, said iron being located South 88 degrees 43 minutes 01 seconds West 288.60 feet from a new iron in the southern right-of-way line of Hilltop Road, that iron being located South 88 degrees 43 minutes 04 seconds West 41.40 feet from an existing iron pipe in the southern right- of-way line of Hilltop Road at the point where the northwest corner of Lot 6 of the Graham L. Smith Heirs Subdivision intersects the southern rightof-way line of the Hilltop Road as shown on Book of Maps 1977, Volume IV, Page 443, Wake County Registry, thence from said beginning point South 00 degrees 20 minutes 03 seconds West 639.36 feet to a new iron pipe; thence North 87 degrees 30 minutes 59 seconds West 340.00 feet to a new iron pipe; thence North 00 degrees 17 minutes 54 seconds East 617.16 feet to a new iron pipe in the southern right-ofway line of Hilltop Road, thence along the southern right-of-way line of Hilltop Road North 88 degrees 43 minutes 01 seconds East 340.00 feet to a new iron pipe, the point and place of beginning, and containing 5.137 acres, more or less, and being designated as Lot 8 of the Graham L. Smith Heirs Subdivision according to a Map by Richard E. Burnette, Registered Land Surveyor, dated 10-13-78 and entitled “Property of Graham L. Smith Heirs, Wake County, North Carolina”, as recorded in Book 1976,

Together with the perpetual right of ingress, egress and regress over Hilltop Road as shown on Book of Maps 1977, Page 443, Wake County Registry.

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.

PM on October 5, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Willow Spring in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The Land is described as follows: BEING all of Lot 40, containing 2.02 gross acres and 2.00 net acres, as shown on that plat entitled “Minor Limited Subdivision Plat, Property of Randy Dickens LLC” dated April 11, 2023, and recorded in Book of Maps 2023, Page 940, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 6421 Wimberly Road, Willow Spring, 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.

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.

BEING all of Lot 1246, 5401 North Subdivision, as shown on that map recorded in Book of Maps 2022, Pages 876-880, Wake County Registry.

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

Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on October 7, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Durham in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 25, The Corners at Brier Creek Townhomes North, as shown in Book of Maps 2021, Pages 1423-1429, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 106 Maple Grove Lane, Durham, 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.

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

real estate situated in Apex in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The land referred to herein below is situated in the County of Wake, State of North Carolina, and is described as follows: Being all of Lot 68, Saddlebrook Phase 1B, as shown on that plat recorded in Book of Maps 2016, Page 2083 Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1532 Bicknor Drive, Apex, North Carolina. Parcel ID:0442399 Commonly known as 1532 Bicknor Drive, Apex, NC 27502 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

910 Wake County and pursuant to the terms of the judgments, 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 Monday, September 28, 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:

Being the same property as conveyed from Clyde Larry Devinney to Clyde L. Devinney and wife, Beverly L. Devinney as set forth in Deed Book 3635 Page 448 dated 01/07/1986, recorded 01/08/1986, WAKE County, NORTH CAROLINA. Tax ID: 0106783 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.

Property Address: 6200 Truxton Lane, Raleigh, NC 27616 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

This the 14th day of August, 2026.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Foundation Legal Group P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 31160 - 162291

26-125306

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: 27254 - 138986

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: 26817 - 171681

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: 20589 - 149511

Inc.,

Title: Asst. Vice-President 201 S. McPherson Church Road, Ste. 201 Fayetteville, NC 28303-4995 FV# 13556223

VOLUME 149 ISSUE 31 | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

CHATHAMNEWSRECORD.COM

THE CHATHAM COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

ALEX BRANDON / AP PHOTO

KENT NISHIMURA / POOL VIA AP

Election season President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance made separate campaign stops in North Carolina this past week to stump for Republicans on the ballot, including, most prominently, U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley. Trump came to Gastonia last Wednesday, while Vance flew into Greensboro on Monday.

the

BRIEF this week

Trump signs U.S.Denmark-Greenland agreement to bolster Arctic security United Nations The United States, Denmark and Greenland have signed an agreement to strengthen security in the Arctic and North Atlantic. President Donald Trump signed the deal Tuesday on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York. Trump earlier announced he planned to bolster the U.S. military presence in Greenland while keeping it under Danish and Greenlandic control. Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire for Greenland to become part of the U.S., ramping up tension. The agreement recognizes Greenland’s sovereignty and aims to boost security for all parties involved. The U.S. military presence in Greenland has decreased significantly since 1945. There are currently around 200 U.S. troops on the Pituffik Space Base.

Flights disrupted across Northeast U.S. due to technical problems at key air traffic center Technicians have repaired data lines that failed at a key regional air traffic control center, and all major airports in the New York area began resuming operations after hundreds of flight cancellations rippled through the Northeast. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said in an online post that primary and backup telecom lines were fixed by Monday evening, allowing affected airports to resume operations.

$2.00

Siler City to apply for Community Development Block Grant The town intends to ask for $5 million in funding By Ryan Henkel Chatham News & Record SILER CITY — The Town of Siler City Board of Commissioners held two public hearings related to the issuance of Commu-

nity Development Block Grant (CDBG) applications. The purpose of the CDBG program is to provide funding to communities aiming to address development needs. The program is governed by the Department of Housing and Urban Development, which awards annual grants for housing rehabilitation, public facili-

ties, infrastructure, job creation and public services. “In general, the CDBG activities must meet at least one national objective of benefiting low-to-moderate income persons or preventing or eliminating slums or blight,” said Planning and Community Development Director Tim Garner. According to the grant guide-

lines, low-to-moderate income households are defined as those with an income at 80% or less than the median income of the county. In order to apply, towns must hold two public hearings to gather community input. In total, Siler City is applying See GRANT, page A7

Pittsboro monitors Google Fiber work Some residents have brought up concerns to the town By Bob Sutton Chatham News & Record PITTSBORO — Town of Pittsboro officials have been addressing concerns from residents as Google Fiber work

takes place within public rights-of-way around the town. “We want to let the residents know we’ve heard their concerns and we’re aware of the concerns,” said Caitlin Murphy, communications director for the town. Murphy said Tuesday that contract workers have been more visible in recent days, and that might have heightened

the curiosities of some of the residents. “The goal is to expand high-speed internet all across the town,” Murphy said. “I think it’s all with good intentions.” Jeff Harris, assistant public works director for Pittsboro, has been the lead project contact from the town’s side. See GOOGLE, page A7

Rising gas prices frustrate voters; Trump says it’s ‘inexpensive price to pay’ for Iran war The frustration spans party lines and could hurt Republicans in midterm voting By Steve Peoples, Jesse Bedayn and Jonathan J. Cooper The Associated Press EDINBURG, Texas — Quinten Martinez, pumping gas under a hot South Texas sun, remembers a time when fueling up didn’t require difficult decisions. “Is it going to be groceries this week?” asked the 28-year-old Amazon delivery driver as he watched the numbers tick higher. “Is it gonna be getting gas in our tank to go to work?” He shook his head when asked about President Donald Trump’s assertion last week that higher gas prices are a

small price to pay for the war with Iran. “I don’t feel like it’s a good trade-off,” Martinez said. “I don’t feel like this is good for anyone.” Voters across the country, and across the political spectrum, tend to agree. Interviews with voters in several states, along with a fresh round of national polling, reveal an overwhelming sense of frustration that skyrocketing gas prices — a direct result of Trump’s war — are creating serious and sustained financial hardships for America’s working class. The acute concerns are adding to a bad political environment that may be worsening for Trump and his Republican Party as early voting gets underway in the November midterm elections. Historically, the party holding the See GAS, page A10

“The goal is to expand high-speed internet all across the town.” Caitlin Murphy, Pittsboro communications director

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

THURSDAY

9.24.26 #161

Siler City community center activity room newly christened A former resident’s legacy was honored by the facility

By Melinda Burris Chatham News & Record

“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 Ryan Henkel Reporter 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

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Goldston woman cashes in Jena Johnson of Goldston was the winner of a $10 million top prize in the NC Education Lottery. She bought a $50 scratch-off ticket last month at Murphy Express on New Chatham Road in Siler City. Given the choice of taking the prize as an annuity of $500,000 a year for 20 years or a lump sum of $6 million, she took the lump sum. After required state and federal tax withholdings, she took home more than $4.3 million. Johnson, a middle school teacher for 20 years, told lottery officials she plans to purchase a BMW convertible. According to information from the lottery, she has other plans for some of the money. “Our daughter just got engaged, and after I won I said, ‘I found a way to pay for the wedding,’ ” Johnson said.

SILER CITY — When Colleen Jaco died earlier this month, her daughter sought a way to honor her with a project that embodied all she valued and devoted her time to in life. Jaco, who died Sept. 2 at 90, had an active role in her community, working for a variety of companies throughout her professional career, including Quality Mold, Burlington Industries and Ramada Inn. For 22 years, she had a fulfilling career as a personal care assistant. After losing her second leg, Jaco moved into Sunridge Nursing Facility, where she enjoyed putting her professional skills to work as an unofficial patient advocate.

COURTESY

Colleen Jaco A social person by nature, Jaco enjoyed keeping her fellow patients active and tuned in to the world around them. Her daughter Jennifer Reaves said her mother was known for her laugh. “It was infectious,” Reaves said. And so naming the activity center in Siler City after Jaco seemed like the perfect way to honor her legacy. Reaves said her mother had dedicated herself to keeping

older members in the community involved and voicing their opinions while having some fun along the way, and that her mother’s “love of life” was palpable. Kristy Glover, director of post acute partnerships at Genesis HealthCare, was an early proponent of the idea. “Dedicating an activity room to a former patient at a facility such as the Siler City Center can have a profound impact on the local community, current residents and staff,” Glover said. “It bridges the gap between the positive community benefits and serves to deepen community connection and trust. “Naming a room after a resident centers the facility’s narrative around the people who volunteer, host events or support the center through local partnerships. (Dedicating it) to a peer reminds current residents that their lives, stories and contributions matter.” The Siler City Center is located at 900 W. Dolphin St.

• Blaine Ivey Rhodes, 30, was arrested for driving while impaired - .10 -, felony possession of cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia, and other charges. • Brandon Thomas Hill, 33, was arrested for felony conspiracy, misdemeanor conspiracy and larceny of motor vehicle parts, and other charges. • James Collins Phillips, 42, was arrested for misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and being intoxicated in a park. • Phillip James Collins, 42, was arrested for misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and being intoxicated in a park. • Wade Hampton Farrish, 73, was arrested for communicating threats and violation of a domestic violence protective order. Sept. 15 • Darren Gerard Clay, 61, was arrested for possession with intent to sell or deliver cocaine, felony possession of cocaine and communicating threats, and other charges. • Gregory Earl Carter, 48, was arrested for felony possession of cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

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

Sept. 26 Mead Fest 2026 Noon to 5 p.m. Starrlight Mead’s free mini-Renaissance celebration with mead tastings, live music, knights’ sword demos, vendors and food. Costumes welcome; rain or shine. Starrlight Mead at The Plant 130 Lorax Lane Pittsboro

MOSAIC Market with The MixTapes Noon to 4 p.m. A Saturday market with musical guest The MixTapes. Free; registration is required. Philip H. Kohl MOSAIC Family Commons 457 Freedom Parkway Pittsboro

CRIME LOG Sept. 14

CHATHAM

• Matthew Eric Wiechel, 43, was arrested for misdemeanor larceny. Sept. 16 • Cirilo Garcia Rangel, 31, was arrested for probation revocation and driving on a revoked license impaired rev. Sept. 17 • Amanda Nicole Melson, 36, was arrested for serious injury by vehicle. • David Royal Blankenship, 38, was arrested for impaired driving. • Deondre Shamone Degraffenreid, 24, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and second-degree trespass. • James Henry Bolton, 52, was arrested for carrying a concealed weapon; possession of marijuana, half ounce or less; and assaulting a government employee, and other charges. • Lorenzo Eavan Nettles, 35, was arrested for sell controlled substance. Sept. 18 • Jessica Grey Starnes, 43, was arrested for breaking or entering.

impaired. Sept. 19 • Aleaha Renne Marr, 32, was arrested for driving while impaired. • Colon Alston, 68, was arrested for misdemeanor larceny. • Ismael Tolentino Garcia, 29, was arrested for driving while impaired, possession of drug paraphernalia and failure to heed a light or siren, and other charges. • Shanna Deann Deplato, 50, was arrested for driving on a revoked license, expired registration and reckless driving, and other charges. Sept. 20 • Randal Levone Riggsbee, 49, was arrested for driving while impaired, felony possession of cocaine and felony possession controlled substance, and other charges. • Travis Ray Upchurch, 49, was arrested for possession of a firearm by a felon, carrying a concealed weapon and carrying weapons into assemblies and establishments where alcoholic beverages are sold and consumed.

• Kierra Leshae Marsh, 37, was arrested for driving while

Oct. 1-4 Fall Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival of Music and Dance Gate hours vary by day Four stages and more than 50 bands, with food, crafts, workshops, kids activities and camping. Advance four-day tickets are $180 through Sept. 27; single days are $52-$66; kids 12 and under are free. Parking is $30 for the weekend or $15 a day. No pets. Shakori Hills Community Arts Center 1439 Henderson Tanyard Road Pittsboro

Oct. 2 MOSAIC Blast from the Past: Bounce! Party Band 7-9 p.m. The free outdoor concert series continues with Bounce! Party Band. The lawn opens at 6 p.m. Food and drink will be available. Registration is required. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Tommy Edwards Stage 457 Freedom Parkway Pittsboro

Third annual Movie Series in Briar Chapel Park: “The Lorax” 4-8 p.m.

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We live here. We work here. We serve here. Scan to learn more about all the ways we support our community.

A wide range of locally made vending items crafted by area creatives. Live music will be featured along with family-friendly activities, food and beverages. Admission is free; donations are encouraged. 12 East St. Pittsboro

Oct. 3-4 Oktoberfest at The Plant Saturday 2-9 p.m. Sunday noon to 5 p.m. A two-day fall celebration with seasonal beers, craft drinks and live music, including a stein-holding contest at bmc brewing. The Plant 220 Lorax Lane Pittsboro

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Federal Reserve official says fighting inflation likely to be ‘painful’ Supply shocks force the central bank to choose between inflation and employment

Church News SILER CITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

By Christopher Rugaber The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — A top Federal Reserve official said Monday that the central bank may have to cause economic pain in the form of higher unemployment to combat stubbornly high inflation. Austan Goolsbee, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, said in a speech in London that the Fed is facing a series of persistent supply shocks that have driven up inflation, including higher oil prices from the Iran war and tariffs. Typically, Goolsbee noted, the central bank would essentially wait for such shocks to fade and inflation to fall on its own rather than raise borrowing costs. But faced with an ongoing series of persistent supply shocks, the Fed now has little choice but to hike rates, Goolsbee said. The increases are needed to lower consumer and business demand to a level consistent with reduced supply, he added, which should bring inflation back to the Fed’s 2% target. “The only way to bring inflation down is to raise rates and narrow the gap between supply and demand,” he said in a written copy of his remarks. “Forcing inflation back to target in the short run means pushing employment below target. ... In the short run, supply shocks force a difficult trade-off” between the Fed’s goals of low inflation and maximum employment. “It’s going to be painful,” Goolsbee said later to reporters. “It would necessarily be painful.”

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J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE / AP PHOTO

Siler City Presbyterian Church at 720 West Third St. in Siler City (across from where the old hospital used to be) is proud to present the Gospel group Redeemed in concert Sunday, Oct. 11 at 5 p.m. Come and join us at Siler City Presbyterian for a wonderful performance of good old-fashioned Southern gospel music sung by the popular gospel group Redeemed. This all-music event will be something everyone will enjoy. Admission for the concert is one can of food for the Chatham Food Pantry. Everyone is welcome! We hope to see you then! Have a blessed day!

Austan Goolsbee, left, then-Council of Economic Advisers chairman under President Barack Obama, testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., in February 2013.

“It’s going to be painful. It would necessarily be painful.” Austan Goolsbee, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago president Goolsbee’s comments contradict Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh’s remarks last Wednesday at a news conference that took place after the Fed lifted its key interest rate for the first time in three years to about 3.9%. “I don’t believe that we need to do harm to the labor markets to achieve our objective,” Warsh said last week. The Fed generally fights inflation by raising interest rates to cool borrowing and spending. Historically, such rate hikes have often slowed growth and

have even led to recessions. Yet in 2022-23, the Fed sharply raised interest rates and inflation did decline, without a significant rise in unemployment or economic slowdown. Goolsbee also suggested while speaking with reporters that the Fed may need to implement more than just the one additional rate hike later this year that policymakers, as a group, forecast last week. There are signs that surging investment in data centers for AI is also pushing up inflation, he said, suggesting that strong demand is playing a role, as well as the supply shock from oil. If inflation mostly comes from supply shocks, then just one more rate hike could be sufficient, Goolsbee told reporters. “And if we get evidence that convinces us that it’s coming from demand, then it likely would not be enough,” he said.

VIALS OF GOD’S WRATH! Bible Study: Revelation 16:1-21 Church of Living Water; Pastor: James Mitchell. Vials of God’s wrath are coming upon the wicked-on earth just before the second coming of Christ. These judgments will bring an end to the judgments of those who have persecuted Israel throughout the ages. These plagues will be from Heaven, sent directly from God, and they will have a supernatural cause, as was the case with those in the land of Egypt. You evil devils that vandalized Charlie Kirk’s statue and marked out Jesus’ name, God’s judgment is coming for you. Don’t bow down to the Socialist Democrat Party! Don’t bow down to the radical Muslims who are trying to take over our elections. The consequences of these plagues will get the attention of people from all over the world, for they have shed the blood of saints and prophets, and God shall give them blood to drink. All the rivers of Italy, Turkey, Syria, Greece, and other parts of the Antichrist’s domain will be running ZLWK EORRG ,Q VSLWH RI WKH PLVHU\ DQG GLI¿FXOW\ WKRVH DIÀLFWHG ZLOO be so humiliated and demeaned that they will not repent. Beware of false prophets and preachers calling for peace. The evildoers don’t want any peace with America or Israel! Christ will come, and sudden destruction will come upon the world of the ungodly. The evil gnawed their tongues for pain and did not repent of their deeds. Children of God who have been born again, don’t let fear and doubt of demonic spirits pull you away from our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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

COLUMN | ANDREW TAYLOR-TROUTMAN

No AI was used in the writing of these limericks

In school, poetry was a slog. The man from Nantucket was pure mischief.

I HAVE AVOIDED artificial intelligence like the plague, and that was before last week when I heard it would destroy humankind. I don’t know whether to believe the doomsday predictions. After initially claiming he was the only needed guardrail for the industry, President Donald Trump is now promising federal oversight through a new “AI czar.” Who knows if he is actually serious or if this is yet another gimmick like $5,000 “dividends” for Republican victories on Election Day. Tech companies are propping up the stock market, and an incumbent president facing high inflation and an unpopular war knows he cannot afford a recession. But enough politics — here’s a limerick: There once was artificial intelligence, that threatened a global apocalypse. But if that dire forecast is true, I have better things to do, than wring my hands for the hell-of-it.

Could Claude or ChatGPT have written a better limerick? Who cares? The fun is in the creative process. My kids refer to limericks as “cringe,” the worst insult they can muster, but I grew up going to church on Sunday morning then listening to “A Prairie Home Companion” in the car on the way to lunch, which included Garrison Keillor’s tales from Lake Wobegon and plenty of limericks. In school, poetry was a slog. The man from Nantucket was pure mischief. Keats and Hopkins wrote fine verse, tuned to sing praises of the universe. A thing of beauty is a joy forever, the world’s charged with God’s grandeur. But nothing is funnier than a good curse. No one is promised tomorrow. Howard Thurman said not to ask what the world needs but to find out what makes you come alive and do that. I used to tell students, “Don’t let anyone

steal your joy.” Now I urge them not to outsource their joy to some algorithm. AI can provide facts, but it can’t create meaning. Humans do not have all the answers, especially to the deepest questions, and that’s as it should be, for how else could we experience wonder and awe? Hopkins was right; there lives the dearest freshness deep down things. The sun is shining, the sky is bright, in this time before the fall of night, I walk the woods, pause by the creek, hear the birds singing so sweet, and for a moment, everything is all right. Andrew Taylor-Troutman’s newest book is “This Is the Day.” He serves as pastor of Chapel in the Pines Presbyterian Church as well as a writer, pizza maker, coffee drinker and student of joy.

COLUMN | BOB WACHS

Life hangs, changes on slender threads What if I really had gone to class like my folks thought I was?

I DON’T DO computers — or any other technological gadget — very well at all. The height of my techy ability pretty much rests in a No. 2 pencil and some Blue Horse notebook paper or a legal pad. And that’s fine: I’ve gotten used to it, and it doesn’t bother me. For a while though, I was sort of embarrassed about all that since Shirley was making her living teaching young folks use computers and I was limited to turning one on. But I got over it since eventually I did learn to use a word processing program, to play Free Cell and to go to certain web sites. No, not those. Good sites like the National Hurricane Center or old ’50s and ’60s rock ’n’ roll sites and places where they talked about baseball. I learned how to follow baseball in general and my beloved Cardinals in particular, even though they stink this season, on MLB.com. That doesn’t mean all is well. Sometimes the server goes to sleep, and since we are relegated to dial-up because our local phone company says we live in a place so far out we have to pipe in sunshine, I sometimes spend 20 minutes taking care of eight seconds worth of business. Be that as it may, however, the task usually gets done. But each time I read stuff about the Cardinals, I remember how at one time in my life I wanted to live and work — it didn’t matter doing what — in St. Louis so I could go to the home games at Busch Stadium. It didn’t matter that such a prospect would probably cost me a gazillion dollars or that it’s really hot and humid in

St. Louis during the summer or that this ol’ country boy really does not like cement, tall buildings or congestion. It just seemed like a good idea at the time. Shows how well I had thought out things. Kind of like the time I thought I wanted to be a pig farmer. Had the land and desire and enough knowledge to be dangerous but forgot to see if the bank would loan me the cash for the project. Fortunately, they said no. I’d still be up to my snout in debt if they had said yes. Anyway, in time, the St. Louis desire went away, and I decided instead I would go to journalism school at Carolina, become a sports writer for the Durham Morning Herald and be assigned to the UNC beat so I could cover Tar Heels football at Kenan Stadium, eat fried chicken in the press box, watch the games and get paid for all that. The mere fact that I forgot to go to class while in college or to study for exams allowed me to cram a four-year degree program into seven years, and by the time I did get a diploma, we had a little one on the way and the Herald wasn’t hiring. And that brings me to my point: Who we are today and where we are hangs on so many decisions that it is a intriguing mental exercise — or maybe sometimes agony — to consider where would we be today if we had done even one thing differently … or not done it at all. For instance, what if I really had gone to class like my folks thought I was … if I had actually studied instead of pretending … if I had gone to the library as much as I went to the snack bar at midnight or to the student union to shoot pool and

listen to the free-play jukebox where the Fifth Dimension wailed out “The Age of Aquarius” every 10 minutes and so on and so forth. Sometimes that sort of brings me up short since I like my life pretty much as it is now. If I had gone through college in four years instead of seven, my path more than likely wouldn’t have crossed with that of my much-better half and I wouldn’t have the two 50-somethings who used to be teenagers who lived at my house for a while or the no-longer-a-teenager who once lived there with me and would tell people, “Granddaddy knows everything” or his younger sister and her younger sister whose smiles light up a room and my heart, or Nos. 3, 4, 5, 7 and 8, my next door neighbors who hold my hands and my heart. I wouldn’t like that. I think that kind of pondering should do a couple of things for us: One, it should make us appreciate what we do have; and two, help us to realize the importance of making good choices as we move along life’s highway. So here’s my two-cents-worth of practical suggestions and good ideas for the journey: Never pet a burning dog, never roller skate in a buffalo herd, don’t play in the road and try to miss the potholes in the highway of life as you travel along it. That should go a long way toward fulfillment. Bob Wachs is a native of Chatham County and emeritus editor at Chatham News & Record. He serves as pastor of Bear Creek Baptist Church.

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

COLUMN | JAN HUTTON

COLUMN SUSAN MILLS

My Achilles’ heel

I’m trapped. That alltoo-present Tyrannosaurus rex-like provocateur, the uncompromising jungle of automated phone systems, has wrapped me in her many wires.

I NEVER, ever imagined that automated phone systems would become my Achilles’ heel, or a path to spiritual enlightenment. But it’s true. Come along for the journey … Not meaning to brag or anything, but I think you’d find I’m truly a nice person. In conversation and on social media, I hold strong values about not contributing to cesspool-like dialogues. (Yay, me!) Nonetheless, verbal dumpster diving (an alltoo-current human trait) can be so satisfying, so cutting-down-to-size and so full of shouted four-letter words. None of these behaviors, or so I thought, were on my chosen values list. (Dream on, girl.) Thanks to my hereditary, millions-of-yearsold, threat-response brain (just like yours), any Tyrannosaurus rex-like challenge today can still become a case for my all-out personal survival. My sainted values be damned! Oh, wait, Tyrannosaurus rex? Those fierce critters aren’t around anymore, are they? Today, it’s the ferocious beasts of differing opinions, political beliefs, religious differences, gender issues and, gosh, even “How can you possibly eat what you’re eating?” I’m trapped. That all-too-present Tyrannosaurus rex-like provocateur, the uncompromising jungle of automated phone systems, has wrapped me in her many wires. This tangled digital trap is the equivalent of a prehistoric, charging, saber-toothed tiger and the powerlessness I experience in its maws. “Someone, anyone, find me human help!” This Quaker pacifist spills over with shouted (not kidding) expletives, begging

the heartless automated phone system, “I just want to speak with a live human. Please!” (Hey, even Quaker pacifists are human.) Sigh. So embarrassing. So very human. I absolutely lose control of myself in the purgatory of automated phone systems. My values, so inclusive of civility, are laid waste. I just head for the bottom of the barrel. The v-e-r-y bottom. Absolutely mortifying to me. Head hanging in disgust at my civility-deprived interlude with an unhearing automated phone system. This being human thing ain’t easy. Trying desperately to maintain values of civility in the context of my saga “Jan and her automated phone system agony.” The expletives win out. A reframe is needed, big time. ’Tis a soul challenge. That’s what it is. This is the one place in my life where I totally lose it. The trigger? I hate not being heard. Just hate it. Do I thank the universe for this continuing thorn in my tender soul, or, or … do what? The answer? “Oh, God, is she really going to say this?” Yes. I hate this challenge. I guess you, dear reader, kind of got that, didn’t you? However, growing my soul, whatever that truly means, is the most important thing in my life. I’m just gonna keep on keepin’ on, and those ol’ automated phone systems will continue as detestable, but needed, carrots on my growth journey. Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor.

COLUMN | DANIEL MCCARTHY

The immigration politics of a felon’s pardon “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that.

HOW FAR will New York Gov. Kathy Hochul go to keep immigrant criminals in this country? So far, she’ll even pardon a man convicted of an aggravated felony if that’s what it takes to prevent the United States Supreme Court from setting a restrictionist precedent. Keisy Guerrero Mariano is a Dominican who spent two years in prison for committing a violent crime: second-degree assault. Mariano, known as “G.M.” in court documents, is exactly the sort of lawbreaker Americans overwhelmingly want to see deported. But not Hochul — she granted him clemency Aug. 28. His case stood out from those of the other five people she pardoned that day: The others were nonviolent offenders who’d committed their crimes decades ago: two in the 1980s, two in the ’90s, and just one as recently as 2007. G.M. was convicted in 2015. The governor decided he merited special leniency, for political reasons. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested G.M. in 2020, intending to deport him based on his criminal record. ICE had to let him go in 2022, however, because of a nationwide injunction related to COVID-19 that required the agency to review custody of individuals with certain medical conditions. While ICE had him, though, G.M.’s lawyers challenged the agency’s right to hold him for a prolonged time without a bond hearing. That’s what Hochul’s pardon is really about — the Trump administration planned to make the Dominican’s appeals a test case before the U.S. Supreme Court, one likely to establish that G.M. and others like him are not entitled to a bond hearing. Bond hearings are an easily exploited weakness in America’s immigration security, not only protracting the legal process of deporting lawbreakers but also giving them an opportunity to get out of detention temporarily — and then permanently fail to show up when they’re due for their next hearing. G.M. came to this country legally in 2011, but he forfeited any right to remain here once he committed a felony. Only now Hochul has nullified his conviction to undercut ICE’s grounds for removing him and collapse the appeals process that was leading to the Supreme Court — and

to a probable defeat for those who want to make deportation as difficult as possible. The governor isn’t looking out for New Yorkers here: Her maneuver is about liberal politicians’ zeal for maximum immigration, even when it means letting violent criminals remain in our communities. This is the second lucky break Hochul’s side has had recently. The other test case the Trump administration had teed up, involving a Jamaican national convicted (also in New York) of sexually abusing a child under the age of 11, has been taken out of the courts as well after the offender left the country and filed a court declaration saying he would not be coming back to America. Self-deportation is one way to get immigrants convicted of heinous crimes out of here. But ICE can’t deport someone who has already deported himself, so his claim of a right to a bond hearing is now completely moot. The big question still has to be answered, though: Can immigration enforcement detain these violent perps and sex offenders until they can be tossed out? Or if they’ve been in custody for a while, are they entitled to bond hearings that will further delay their removal — and give them the chance to escape back into Americans’ neighborhoods? Solicitor General John Sauer says he’s not going to let Hochul’s gambit succeed. G.M.’s case may have been pulled, but Sauer aims to find another that will bring the fight to the Supreme Court. “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that — even a legal immigrant who commits a serious offense ought to be expelled promptly, and he shouldn’t get the benefit of a bond hearing just because his case takes longer than it should and he winds up in “prolonged” detention. He shouldn’t get the benefit of a liberal governor’s partisan machinations either. New Yorkers — American citizens — elected Hochul, and she should put them first, not foreigners who commit crimes while they’re here, legally or otherwise. Daniel McCarthy is the editor of Modern Age: A Conservative Review. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul speaks during a press conference Aug. 12 in New York.

Get to know the real Michael Whatley I HAVE KEPT SILENT hoping people will educate themselves before voting, but I still see fellow Republicans trying to tear down a good person. I was elected NCGOP vice chair to serve with Michael Whatley. I worked with him closely for over three years. He is a man of faith, family and freedom. He loves his beautiful family and would never put his children in harm’s way by “hiring” a person that preys on children. He did not hire Harvey West. Harvey was elected by his constituents in the 1st District. Harvey was already a member of the Plan of Organization Committee when Whatley became chair of the NCGOP. Many people are kept on committees to allow their knowledge of how the committee works to be passed down to new members. There was nothing strange about keeping Harvey on that committee. Look at organizations in your community, state and country. Do you throw out all their institutional knowledge to bring on someone that is new and has no idea of where to begin? Whatley is a man of faith. We started each meeting, event, dinner with a prayer. He is a God-fearing person. He always wanted to do what was right, and he did. No one is perfect, so stop looking for perfection in anyone! Whatley loves the people of North Carolina and of this great country. I have seen it firsthand. He doesn’t put himself first. It’s the folks of N.C. who he put first and always will. He is a man of his word and not a person that lies. We need Whatley in the U.S. Senate. Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics — the Democratic candidate did that! As a person that has worked closely with him and considers him a close friend, I ask you to vote for Michael Whatley for U.S. Senate!

Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics.

Susan Mills is a public high school teacher who lives in Fayetteville.

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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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

obituaries

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Annie Dillard, Pulitzer-winning author of ‘Pilgrim at Tinker Creek,’ dead at 81

Thomas “Mark” Jordan Oct. 26, 1951 – Sept. 10, 2026 Thomas “Mark” Jordan, 74, died early morning, September 10th, 2026, at the Raleigh Rehabilitation Center in Wake County, NC. Mark was born in Durham, NC, on October 26, 1951. He was preceded in death by his parents Rev. Robert

Michael Lewis Testerman Nov. 27, 1958 – Sept. 19, 2026 Michael (Mike) Lewis Testerman, of Goldston, passed into the arms of Jesus on September 19, 2026 after several years of declining health. He was born in Lee County, NC on November 27, 1958, the son of Fred Clarence Testerman and Florence Hash Testerman. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Neal and Harvey Junior, as well as his beloved grandson, Jason David Michael Lincoln. Mike was a self-employed master diesel mechanic by trade. His greatest love was

396 West St., Pittsboro, NC 27312 | 919-542-3057 | www.donaldsonfunerals.com Harry Jordan and Frances Weaver Jordan, formerly of Wilson, NC. Mark graduated from Northern Nash High School. He studied at the NC School of the Arts and East Carolina Music Dept. He was an accomplished pianist and organist. Mark is survived by his sister, Charlotte F. Jordan, of Wilson, NC; his aunts, Dianne Weaver, of Tennessee and Frances She spent more than five Weaver, of Richmond, VA and decades exploring the six first cousins of various locations. intersection of nature, Mark’s graveside burial will spirituality and self be held at 3:00PM, Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Oakwood Cemetery in Siler City, NC. The Associated Press Please share a memory or condolence for the family in NEW YORK — Annie DilMark’s guest book below. lard, the Pulitzer Prize-winning Smith & Buckner Funeral author and essayist renowned Home, of Siler City, North for her poetic explorations of naCarolina, is honored to serve ture, love, spirituality and the the family of Thomas “Mark” ANDREW HARNIK / AP PHOTO art of writing in the “Pilgrim at Jordan.

his family and his relationship with Jesus, his Lord and Savior. He would do his best to help anyone in need. Mike is survived by daughters, Patricia and Bridget and sons, Michael, Adam and Matt. He is also survived by his step-daughter, Shyanne; step-son, Briar; sister, Martha; brothers, Dale (Wanda), Sam (Charlotte) and Charles (Margie). The funeral service will be held at 2:00 on Wednesday, September 23, 2026 at Mt. Tabor Community Church with Pastor David Lambeth and Pastor Ed Murchison presiding. Visitation will be prior to the service from 1:00-1:45 p.m. The family will return to the fellowship hall following the committal and will also receive friends at that time. Condolences may be offered online at www. joycebradychapel.com Joyce-Brady Chapel of Bennett is honored to serve the Testerman family. “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake.” Psalm 23:1-3

Tinker Creek,” “The Maytrees” and numerous other works, has died. She was 81. Her literary agent, Rob McQuilkin, said Dillard died Tuesday of natural causes at her home in South Wellfleet, Massachusetts. Starting in the mid-1970s, Dillard completed a wide range of books, from the poetry collection “Tickets for a Prayer Wheel” to what she would call the “jolly journalism” of “Encounters with Chinese Writers” to the novel of marriage, “The Maytrees,” a finalist for the PEN/Faulkner award in 2008. Seven years later, President Barack Obama presented her with a National Humanities Medal for her “profound reflections on human life and nature.” Born Meta Ann Doak, she was a Pittsburgh native who in the 1987 memoir “An American Childhood” looked back at her early years and on her uniquely curious mind. She was raised

by nonconformists who gave her a wide range to learn and to discover, and she remembered with awe her growing sense of knowledge and self-knowledge. Resistant for much of her life to organized religion, she would find the eternal in animals, mountains, her mother’s skin and in everyday objects. At age 13, she wrote, she was reading “books on drawing, painting, rocks, criminology, birds, moths, beetles, stamps, ponds and streams, medicine.” Dillard had yet to turn 30 when “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek” established her as a major, new literary voice and heir to Hen-

Presley Gerber, son of Cindy Crawford, model dead at 27 His sister praised him last month for being remarkably open about addiction The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — Presley Gerber, the son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessperson Rande Gerber, died Sunday at age 27, a family representative said. Gerber died at a rehabilitation facility, according to online records of the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. The medical examiner did not provide a cause of death Sunday. An autopsy was performed, but more testing is required before investigators can give a cause, according to the medical examiner’s website. The death was confirmed by Allie Jenkins, a representative for Crawford and Rande Gerber, who were married in 1998. “The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult and painful time,” Jenkins said in an email Sunday night. Gerber was model in own right

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

President Barack Obama awards the 2014 National Humanities Medal to author Annie Dillard during a ceremony in the East Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., in September 2015.

ry David Thoreau as a sensitive and idiosyncratic observer of the natural world. Published in 1974 and winner of the Pulitzer for nonfiction, “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek” drew upon Dillard’s private writings about the surroundings of her home in Roanoke, Virginia. Invoking Thoreau, about whom she wrote her master’s thesis at Hollins College, she called her book “a meteorological journal of the mind,” in which she would explore “some of the sights of this rather tamed valley.” “I am no scientist,” she wrote, likening herself to “an infant who has just learned to hold his head up” and gaze about “in bewilderment.” “He hasn’t the faintest clue where he is, and he aims to learn. In a couple of years, what he will have learned instead is how to fake it: he’ll have the cocksure air of a squatter who has come to feel he owns the place,” she wrote. Dillard taught for more than 20 years at Wesleyan University before retiring in 2002. She was married three times, most recently to the late literary biographer Robert Richardson, whom she met after sending him a fan letter admiring his biography of Thoreau. She had one child, Cody, with second husband Gary Clevidence. Her first husband was creative writing teacher Richard Dillard, whom she divorced in 1975 after 10 years of marriage.

Gerber was a model and the older brother of model and actor Kaia Gerber. He had been open about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse, documenting his journey on Instagram. He even started a “Mental Health Mondays” series on the platform to raise awareness and share wellness tips. Across multiple episodes, he related his own experiences with substances ranging from ketamine to kratom, as well as his time at rehabilitation facilities. He posted an Instagram video in March from Mexico, where he said he planned to take ibogaine, a potent psychedelic that is being studied as a treatment for opioid addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder and other conditions. Ibogaine — known to sometimes

trigger potentially fatal heart problems — is banned in the U.S. under the federal government’s most restrictive category for illegal, high-risk drugs, although President Donald Trump directed his administration to ease restrictions and spur research. Raised in Malibu, California, Gerber signed with the management agency IMG as a teenager and made his runway debut for Moschino at 16. In 2018, he appeared alongside his mother — whose famous beauty mark he inherited — in a Pepsi Super Bowl ad that paid homage to her 1992 commercial for the soda brand. That same year, he and his sister shot a campaign for Calvin Klein jeans. Gerber later signed with DNA Models. His biography on the agency’s website describes him as an entrepreneur and model who was inspired by “his mother’s legendary modeling career and his father’s lucrative business career.” Rande Gerber’s businesses have included restaurants, nightlife companies and Casamigos — a tequila brand he cofounded with George Clooney and Mike Meldman that was sold to Diageo in a $1 billion deal. Gerber open about struggles with addiction Gerber’s modeling biography also described him as an “avid surfer and skater.” In an Instagram video posted in July 2025, Gerber described growing up as a dedicated athlete who spent hours in the water nearly every day — a routine that came to a halt when he started working. With less physical activity, Gerber said, he was put on more medication and his quality of life suffered. “For me it took 10 years of looking back at my life being like, ‘Well, what changed?’ A lot of the time people would ask like, ‘You were such a happy kid; what happened to you?’” he recalled. “What happened was life hap-

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Presley Gerber poses at the Samuel Goldwyn Theatre in March 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. pened and I wasn’t able to worry about one thing, which was my next meal and then get back in the ocean. Like I had to start making money, I had to start — I got a job.” In an interview with Vogue last month, Kaia Gerber praised her brother for being so open about his experience with addiction. “My parents for most of our lives were very, very private and didn’t share anything—and now we have this absolute teacher, my brother, who says, ‘I’m gonna be very human for everyone,’” she told the magazine. “There’s only so much you can hide from the world. And trying to put a lid on something just makes the person feel like you’re ashamed of them.” In addition to his testimonial videos, Gerber’s Instagram was a collection of modeling shoots and memories that stretched back to childhood. His life around cameras influenced his own interest in photography as an art form. “I have always been the type of person to stop and take a picture when everybody is just focused on the destination,” he told Vogue in 2016, on the occasion of his runway debut. “I feel like people walk by a countless amount of beauty in the world every day, and I hope that I don’t miss all of it.”

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Raccoon boot camp in Mississippi teaches abandoned kits survival skills Graduating raccoons are released to the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance” By Sophie Bates The Associated Press PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. — Muddy, sweat-soaked and occasionally bloody, the dedicated staff at a Mississippi wildlife center are drill sergeants. And their soldiers? Baby raccoons. Welcome to raccoon boot camp, where the goal is to help sick or injured animals learn to survive in the south Mississippi wilderness — a skill set they would have learned from their mothers, most of whom died or were separated from their kits by storms, traffic incidents or other traumatic events. It’s a challenge that’s left Woodside Wildlife Rescue’s founder, Paula Woodside, with cuts from scared, defensive raccoons and their sharp claws, and when she isn’t able to save a kit, emotional scars too. “When these babies come in and they’re so desperate, it’s heartbreaking,” said Woodside, who most days is covered in sweat from caring for the animals in the Mississippi heat and dirt from curious kits crawling up her legs and onto her shoulders. “It’s really important for

them to get a little bit of a head start.” Wildlife rescue staff teach raccoons by example Woodside, a former U.S. merchant mariner, opened the rescue in 2019 after she helped rehabilitate a baby raccoon found aboard her ship. The rescue in the coastal city of Pass Christian typically raises dozens of kits each year, 76 so far this year, alongside other indigenous wildlife. City animal control and citizens call Woodside, or the rescue’s director, Raquel Priest, when they find a raccoon in need of saving. Together, they attempt to reunite the kits with their mothers, if they can find them, or bring the kits to the rescue. The youngest raccoons will spend a few weeks mostly indoors being bottle-fed by rehabbers until they’re vaccinated for diseases carried by cat colonies and dogs and are ready to move to outdoor pens. Though the kits stay close to their adoptive human parents, they’re eventually allowed to roam free during the day on the rescue’s rural 20-acre property, a sprawling mix of meadows and thick forest spotted with ponds and a nearby river. Thanks to that setting, Woodside and

Raccoons graduate to “Pomp and Circumstance Marches”

SOPHIE BATES / AP PHOTO

Priest can take their troops on learning excursions, a luxury many wildlife rescues don’t have, Woodside said. Woodside and Priest teach by example. They hide worms in the dirt to show the kits how to dig for food and break open pine cones or acorns to reveal the seeds inside. The raccoons’ eyes light up when they encounter a new tasty food, and they run to show their discovery to their rehabbers before hurrying back to fend off other kits who might try to steal their find. Where a drill sergeant might yell, ‘Attention!’ Priest and

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For their final lesson, a volunteer — who isn’t Woodside or Priest — traps the raccoons in cages, scaring them enough to encourage them to avoid traps and humans. The experience helps the young raccoons wean themselves from their human rescuers, a process Priest said naturally occurs as they mature. When a group of kits is ready for release, about six months after their rescue, Woodside and Priest host a graduation ceremony. They play Edward Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance Marches” and read a roll call of each graduating kit’s name. A reverend then blesses their journey as they’re released onto a different section of the rescue’s forest-covered property. For kits that die in care, the staff holds a second ceremony to bless and scatter their ashes. “It’s like watching your children leave home,” Priest said. “It’s important to see them prosper and go and be the mischievous creatures they were meant to be.”

A raccoon kit digs through water and mud at Woodside Wildlife Rescue in Pass Christian, Mississippi, on Sept. 1.

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On the property’s pond, the raccoons learn to swim, a critical skill in hurricane-prone south Mississippi. The rehabbers take to kayaks and encourage the kits to swim back and forth. They also take trips to the deep woods, where kits learn to run from tree to tree to avoid being seen by birds of prey and to have a quick escape route from snakes or other dangers on the ground.

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Woodside give a shrill trilling sound, mimicking the raccoon call for danger, that sends the kits running up trees to safety. A short whistle lets the troops know the coast is clear. The kits also practice fishing in shallow pools, their uncoordinated paws tentatively patting the water until they’re quick enough to snag a snack. A live quail hunt provides hunting experience. While these are skills raccoons would likely learn on their own, Woodside’s staff hopes the training gives the kits a greater chance of survival.

GOOGLE from page A1 Information requested about when the project was launched and an expected finishing time frame wasn’t made available by Tuesday night. As part of the response from residents’ concerns, Murphy said, the town has issued a Corrective Action Notice and is monitoring the situation. The town issued a memo that pointed out that staff

GRANT from page A1 for $5 million in funding from the CDBG program, which is to be administered by the North Carolina Department of Commerce, broken down as follows: • $950,000 for housing rehabilitation • $1.5 million for street resurfacing • $1.5 million for stormwater improvements • $550,000 for fire station upgrades • $500,000 for program administration “Projects that qualify for the CDBG can include area-wide benefits such as community projects, economic development and infrastructure where the project must bene-

has contacted Google Fiber and its contractors to address these concerns and reinforce the requirement that all applicable procedures and protocols be followed. Residents and businesses experiencing issues or concerns related to this work are encouraged to contact the Town of Pittsboro at 919-542-4621. “We want to hear from residents so we can route those concerns up the chain,” Murphy said.

fit at least 51% low-to-moderate income persons, or it could include direct benefits such as housing rehabilitation where the activity must benefit 100% low-to-moderate income persons,” Garner said. The town intends to submit their application in October. “As part of this project, the Town of Siler City will minimize displacement to the greatest extent practicable,” Garner said. “Should any acquisition or displacement occur, the town will fully comply with the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies Act and all associated federal regulations.” The Siler City Board of Commissioners will next meet Oct. 5.

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

A8

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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FOR RENT TOWNHOUSE FOR RENT – 3 Bedrooms, 2 ½ baths, enclosed backyard, garage No pets – 2 mos. deposit required. $1350.00 per month - 1106 North Glenn Ave., Siler City – Please call 201-232-7918 for more information. 3tp POWELL SPRINGS APTS. Evergreen Construction introduces its newest independent living community for adults 55 years or older, 1 and 2 bedroom applications now being accepted. Office hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 919-533-6319 for more information, TDD #1-800-735-2962, Equal housing opportunity, Handicapped accessible. A2,tfnc

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TOWN OF SILER CITY 2020 CDBG NEIGHBORHOOD REVITALIZATION PROGRAM Notice is hereby given that the Siler City Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 6:30 PM, or as soon thereafter as the agenda will allow, in the Joseph Moody Buckner Courtroom at City Hall, 311 N. Second Avenue, Siler City, NC 27344. The purpose of the public hearing is to review the budget and activities that have been accomplished through the Town’s 2020 CDBG Neighborhood Revitalization (CDBG-NR) program. The program activities have been completed and the Town is in the process of closing out the program. The CDBG-NR project included demolition and reconstruction of three dilapidated dwelling units. The project benefited 100% low-income households. Citizens will also be given the opportunity to provide oral and written comments on the Town’s use of CDBG funds. All interested citizens are encouraged to attend. For additional information or to submit written comments, please contact Jack Meadows, Town Manager, PO Box 769, Siler City, NC 27344. Comments should be postmarked by October 5, 2026. If you plan to attend and require special accommodations because of a disability or physical impairment, please contact Jack Meadows, Town Manager, 919-726-8627, jmeadows@silercity.gov (TDD #919/807-4420 or Relay North Carolina FFY#1-800735-2962) by Wednesday, September 30, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Accommodation will be made for all who request assistance participating in the public hearing. This information is available in Spanish or any other language upon request. Please contact Jack Meadows, Town Manager, at 919-726-8627, or at City Hall, 311 N. Second Avenue, Siler City, NC for assistance with this request. Esta información está disponible en español o en cualquier otro idioma bajo petición. Por favor, póngase en contacto con Jack Meadows, Town Manager, al 919-726-8627, o en City Hall, 311 N. Second Avenue, Siler City, NC de alojamiento para esta solicitud.

NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS OF Patricia Ann Eubanks Horton All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Patricia Ann Eubanks Horton, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are notified to exhibit them to Jeffrey Wayne Horton as Executor of the decedent’s estate on or before December 26, 2026, c/o Janet B. Witchger, Attorney at Law, 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203, Chapel Hill, NC 27517, or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above-named Executor. This the 24th day of September 2026. Jeffrey Wayne Horton, Executor c/o Janet B. Witchger, Atty. TrustCounsel 1414 Raleigh Rd., Ste. 203 Chapel Hill, NC 27517

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NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000522-180 The undersigned ROBIN HOLLAND MCDUFFIE, having qualified on the 11TH Day of SEPTEMBER 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of FRED JACKSON HOLLAND, 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 24TH Day OF DECEMBER 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 24TH DAY OF SEPTEMBER 2026. ROBIN HOLLAND MCDUFFIE, EXECUTOR 86 BLUEBERRY HILL ROAD PITTSBORO, NC 27312 Run dates: S24,O1,8,15P

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A9

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

CREDITOR’S NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

PUBLIC NOTICE

Notice of Public Hearings

Having qualified on the 14th day of August 2026, as Administrator CTA of the Estate of Barry D. Edwards, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the decedent to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 10th day of December 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. This is the 2nd day of September 2026. W. Woods Doster, Administrator CTA of the Estate of Barry D. Edwards 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Attorneys: Law Offices of Doster & Brown, P.A. 206 Hawkins Avenue Sanford, NC 27330 Publish On: September 10, 17, 24 and October 1st, 2026.

Having qualified as Personal Representative of the Estate of Lee Melvyn Marcus, deceased of Chatham County, North Carolina, on the 9th day of September, 2026, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to exhibit them to the undersigned at the office of the attorney for the estate on or before the 19th day of December, 2026, or this Notice will be pled in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 17th day of September, 2026. Elaine Marcus, Personal Representative, c/o Larry H. Rocamora, Attorney for the Estate, McPherson, Rocamora, Nicholson, & Hinkle, PLLC; 3211 Shannon Road, Suite 400, Durham, NC 27707. Chatham News + Record: 9/17, 9/24, 10/1, 10/8

The Annual Meeting of the Bonlee Fire Department will be held on Monday Oct. 12, 2026 @7:00pm at 185 Bonlee Bennett Rd Siler City NC 27213. We encourage our community members to attend and stay informed with your local Fire Department. 1tc

Town of Siler City The following items will be considered by the Siler City Board of Commissioners as legislative hearings. The hearings will be conducted during the Board of Commissioner’s meeting on Monday, October 5, 2026, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the court room located in the Siler City Town Hall at 311 N. 2nd Ave. Legislative Public Hearings The proposed item is available for review by contacting Tim Garner at tgarner@silercity.gov or 919726-8628. All persons interested in the outcome of this item are invited to attend the legislative hearing and present comments, testimony, and exhibits on the above referenced item. Interested parties may also submit written comments. Written comments can be submitted by email to tgarner@silercity.gov. Individuals desiring to speak may sign up by registering their name and information on the sign-up sheet, located outside the entry doors to the court room. The Town of Siler City will make appropriate arrangements to ensure that disabled persons are provided other accommodations, such arrangements may include, but are not limited to, providing interpreters for the deaf, providing taped cassettes of materials for the blind, or assuring a barrierfree location for the proceedings. This information is available in Spanish or any other language upon request. Please contact Briana Martinez at 919-726-8620, 311 North Second Avenue, Siler City, North Carolina 27344, or bmartinez@silercity.gov for accommodations for this request. Esta información está disponible en español o en cualquier otro idioma bajo petición. Por favor, póngase en contacto con Briana Martinez al bmartinez@silercity.gov o 919-726-8625 o en 311 North Second Avenue, Siler City, North Carolina 27344 de alojamiento para esta solicitud.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS ALL PERSONS, firms and corporations having claims against BEVERLY A. BROWN, deceased, of Chatham County, are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before December 17, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the Estate will please make immediate payment. This 17th day of September, 2026. AMY WALKER CAGLE, PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE ESTATE OF BEVERLY A. BROWN c/o Tillman, Whichard & Cagle, PLLC 501 Eastowne Drive, Suite 130 Chapel Hill, NC 27514

NOTICE TO CREDITORS 26E000377-180 NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY The undersigned, Lynn McClurg, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Raymond Augustus Kilner, 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 December 2, 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 3rd day of September 2026. Lynn McClurg Executor Marie H. Hopper Attorney for the Estate Hopper Cummings, PLLC Post Office Box 1455 Pittsboro, NC 27312

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that a Public Hearing for an Ordinance Amendment application will be held by the Town of Goldston Board of Commissioners on Monday October 5, 2026 at 7:00 P.M. at Goldston Town Hall located at 40 Coral Ave, Goldston, NC for the purpose of considering the following item: ORDINANCE AMENDMENT APPLICATION OA-26-02 Applicant: Town of Goldston OA-26-02 is a Unified Development Ordinance amendment application initiated by the Town of Goldston to amend language of several sections of the Town of Goldston Unified Development Ordinance. The Town of Goldston Board of Commissioners will conduct a Public Hearing on October 5, 2026 at 7:00 PM to hear this application and make a decision to approve or deny this application. All those wishing to speak on this request are invited to attend and speak during the Public Hearing. Please direct questions about this application to Town Planner Abby Manning at 919-558-2700. ADVERTISE: September 24, 2026 October 1, 2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of ETHAN DOUGLAS LONG, Deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, do hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned at the office of Leigh Peek, Attorney at Law, Attn Noah Oswald obo Leanna Long, PO Box 1059, Hillsborough, NC 27278, on or before the 17th day of December, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the Estate will please make immediate payment. This 7th day of September, 2026. LEANNA ELIS LONG, ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF ETHAN DOUGLAS LONG 9/10, 9/17, 9/24, 10/1

ALL PERSONS, firms and corporations having claims against LILIANA MATHY, deceased, of Chatham County, are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before the 17th day of December, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the Estate will please make immediate payment. This 17th day of September, 2026. LISA M. HUGHES, ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF LILIANA MATHY c/o Hughes & Leighton PLLC 916 Prince Street, Suite 200 Alexandria, VA 22314

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of James Leon Satterwhite, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, who died on May 8, 2026, the undersigned hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the Estate of said decedent to present them to the undersigned on or before December 10, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said Estate are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 2nd day of September, 2026. Erica L. Satterwhite, Executor Estate of James Leon Satterwhite 1290 Adrian Ct Mebane, NC 27302 Chatham County, North Carolina Publish: September 10, September 17, September 24, and October 1, 2026.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having qualified on the 31st day of August, 2026, as Executor of the Estate of Roxana Shalo, deceased, of Chatham County does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said Estate to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before December 20th, 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 10th day of September, 2026. Sibyl Wilmont Executor of the Estate of Roxana Shalo c/o J Alan Campbell Law PO Box 850 Hillsborough, NC 27278 919-451-5441

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Marilyn Gerk Ozer, 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 3rd day of December, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment. This 3rd day of September, 2026. TRINA SHILOH MATTA, EXECUTOR ESTATE OF MARILYN GERK OZER

Notice to Creditors ALL PERSONS, firms and corporations having claims against Claire Maureen Miller., deceased, of Chatham County, NC, are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before December 11th, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 10th day of September, 2026. Diane Lee Miller, Limited Personal; Representative, c/o Bagwell Holt Smith P.A., 111 Cloister Court, STE 200, Chapel Hill, NC 27514

NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CHATHAM GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 26CV000151-180 Truist Bank, Plaintiff, vs. John Brisbee; Wanda Brisbee; United States of America; Pinnacle Finance; Aqua Finance, Inc.; Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, Defendant(s). NOTICE OF JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Jeremy B. Wilkins, Commissioner, pursuant to the Order/Judgment entered in the abovecaptioned case on July 27, 2026 (“Order”), and by virtue of the appointment, power and authority contained in that Order, has been authorized and ordered to sell the property commonly known as 538 D Hart Rd, Siler City, NC 27344 (“Property”). Said Property is secured by the Deed of Trust executed by John Brisbee and Wanda Brisbee, husband and wife, dated December 21, 2020 and recorded on December 22, 2020 in Book 02173 at Page 0208 of the Chatham County, North Carolina Registry. The Property shall be sold together with improvements located thereon, towards satisfaction of the debt due by John Brisbee, and secured by the lien against such property in favor of Truist Bank. The Commissioner will offer for sale to the highest bidder at a public auction at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and

NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Joseph Yunker Kenlan, 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 24th day of December 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment. This 24th day of September, 2026. JANICE BRADLEY RIEVES, EXECUTOR ESTATE OF JOSEPH YUNKER KENLAN

NOTICE OF GENERAL ELECTION CHATHAM NORTH CAROLINA The statewide general election will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Voters will be asked to show photo ID when they vote. All voters will be allowed to vote with or without ID. Voters who lack ID can get one for free from their county board of elections. Find out more at ncsbe.gov/voter-id. Polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Election Day.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF JAMES RALPH STARLING FILE NO. 26E000436-180 ALL PERSONS, firms, and corporations having claims against James Ralph Starling, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before December 24, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 24th of September, 2026. Betsy Starling, Executor of the Estate of James Ralph Starling, c/o Amanda Honea, Attorney, 1255 Crescent Green, Suite 200, Cary, NC 27518.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Personal Representative of the Estate of Vivian Barnett Brown, deceased of Chatham County, North Carolina, on the 8th day of September, 2026, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to exhibit them to the undersigned at the office of the attorney for the estate on or before the 26th day of December, 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 24th day of September 2026. Gloria Ruth Weissman, Personal Representative, c/o Christina G. Hinkle, Attorney for the Estate, McPherson, Rocamora, Nicholson & Hinkle, PLLC; 3211 Shannon Road, Suite 400, Durham, NC 27707. September 24, October 1, 8, 15 2026

Early voting will be held at the following locations from Thursday, October 15, 2026, through Saturday, October 31, 2026.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY 26E000386-180 ALL persons having claims against DAVID JOSHUA BENELIYAHU, deceased, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before Dec 24 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This the 24th day of September, 2026. c/o DIANE WOLBER BENELIYAHU, Executor C/O Jones Branz & Whitaker LLP 4030 Wake Forest Rd. Ste. 300 Raleigh, NC 27609 S24, 1, 8 and 15

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000495-180 The undersigned, CLYDE GRAHAM BARBER, having qualified on the 26TH Day of AUGUST 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of MOLLY YELTON BARBER, 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 3RD Day of DECEMBER 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 3RD Day of SEPTEMBER 2026. CLYDE GRAHAM BARBER, EXECUTOR 174 CRAIG HILL LANE CHAPEL HILL, NC 27516 Run dates: S3,10,17,24p

customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on September 29, 2026 at 01:00 PM the following described real property (including all improvements thereon) located in Chatham County, North Carolina and described as follows: Tract 1: ALL of Lot 1 containing 0.314 acre, more or less, according to plat entitled “Survey for James S. Woody & Christy A. Woody” prepared by Van R. Finch - Land Surveys, P.A., dated June 25, 1996, and recorded in Plat Slide 96-235, Chatham County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. All or a portion of the property hereinabove described was acquired by Grantor by instrument recorded in Book 698, Page 5, Chatham County Registry. Tract 2: ALL of Lot 2 containing 2.400 acres, more or less, according to plat entitled “Survey for James S. Woody & Christy A. Woody” prepared by Van R. Finch - Land Surveys, P.A., dated June 25, 1996, and recorded in Plat Slide 96-235, Chatham County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. All or a portion of the property hereinabove described was acquired by Grantor by instrument recorded in Book 697, Page 535, Chatham County Registry. Tract 3: ALL of Lot D containing 1.004 acres, more or less, according to plat entitled “Survey for Ida H. Smart & Everett C. Smart” prepared by Van R. Finch - Land Surveys, P.A., dated March 7, 2001 and recorded in Plat Slide 2001-130, Chatham County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more

Absentee ballots will be mailed to voters who have requested them beginning September 4, 2026. Absentee ballots must be received by the county board of elections no later than 7:30 p.m. on Election Day, November 3, 2026. A voter can fill out an absentee ballot request at votebymail.ncsbe. gov, or by filling out a request form provided by the county board of elections office. The request must be received through the website or by the Chatham Board of Elections by 5 p.m. October 20, 2026. Contests on the ballot include U. S. Senate, U.S. House, N.C. Supreme Court Associate Justice, N.C. Court of Appeals Judge, District Court Judge, N.C. House and Senate, and county offices Board Commissioners, Board of Education, Sheriff, & Soil and Water Conservation Board Members. There are three Statewide Referendum proposing amendments to the N.C. Constitution on the ballot. All persons who are registered to vote with the Chatham County Board of Elections may vote in this election. The voter registration deadline for this election is 5 p.m. Friday, October 9, 2026. Eligible individuals who are not registered by that deadline may register and vote at any early voting site during the early voting period. Individuals registering to vote at an early voting site will be required to provide current documentation of their residence (for example, a government ID, other government document, or a paycheck, bank statement, or utility bill). Voters voting in person are entitled to assistance by an election official, or, if assistance is needed due to disability or illiteracy, by a qualified person of their choice. Voting sites are accessible to all voters. Curbside voting is available for voters who are not able to enter voting sites without physical assistance because of age or physical disability. Questions? Call the Chatham County Board of Elections Office at 919-545-8500 or send an email to elections@chathamcountync.gov. Theron VanDusen, Chair Chatham County Board of Elections

particular description. All or a portion of the property hereinabove described was acquired by Grantor by instrument recorded in Book 911, Page 949, Chatham County Registry. Tract 4: ALL of Lot C containing 0.274 acre, more or less, according to plat entitled “Survey for James Steven Woody & Christy A. Woody” prepared by Van R. Finch - Land Surveys, P.A., dated August 23, 2012, revised December 2, 2016, and recorded in Plat Slide 201730, Chatham County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. All or a portion of the property hereinabove described was acquired by Grantor by instrument recorded in Book 1647, Page 590, Chatham County Registry. The above described property will be sold, transferred and conveyed “AS IS, WHERE IS” subject to liens or encumbrances of record which are superior to such Deed of Trust, together with all unpaid taxes and assessments and any recorded releases. Neither the Commissioner nor the holder of the debt secured by such Deed of Trust, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Commissioner or the holder of the debt make any representation of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health, or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such conditions expressly are disclaimed. The Commissioner shall convey title to the property by non-warranty deed, without any covenants or warranties, express

or implied. An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 1-339.29 (c) in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the judge or clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be 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. 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”. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current record owners of the property as reflected on the records of the CHATHAM COUNTY Register of Deeds’ office not more than ten (10) days prior to the date hereof are John Brisbee and wife, Wanda Brisbee. A certified check only (no personal checks) deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchasing price will be required at the time of the sale. Any successful bidder shall be required to tender the full balance of the purchase price of bid in cash or certified check at the time

the Commissioner tenders a deed for the Property or attempts to tender such deed, and should said successful bidder fail to pay the full balance purchase price of bid at that time, said bidder shall remain liable on said bid as provided for under North Carolina law. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. The sale will be reported to the court and will remain open for advance or upset bids for a period of ten (10) days as required by law. If the Commissioner 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 Commissioner. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Commissioner, 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. 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. JEREMY B. WILKINS, Commissioner 5431 Oleander Drive, Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 392-4988 Phone NCSales@brockandscott.com File No.: 24-38418-JUD01

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Computer savvy? Not quite A new Apple brings old frustrations By Erika Hoffman For Chatham News & Record WHEN I WAS in 10th grade in New Jersey, our geometry teacher led us down the hall to a locked room. She opened the door, and we filed in. What we beheld was a large monstrosity filling most of the classroom. She declared, “Students, this is a computer!” In college, I never took computer courses, although my roomie, Cora, did. She had to run programs using punch cards at all hours of the day and night. I never paid much attention to which courses she took as a business major. I followed the humanities curriculum, thankful that I had much more discretionary time than she did. A few years after I began my teaching career, I thought the Xerox machine was an exotic, modern, luxurious, almost godly invention. Not having one’s hands-stained blue from ditto paper ink was a joyous technological novelty. Hasn’t the world changed for baby boomers? This past July, my computer went kaput. I called our unpaid tech support — our third son — and unloaded my woes. “My Microsoft Word isn’t working. How will I send my articles to magazines, e-zines or newspapers without a computer? Or even create them?” I queried. He told me he’d buy an Apple computer and install it Aug. 1, a few days before we departed on our solar eclipse cruise. After we returned from our voyage, where we had some truly memorable experiences, I

White House has suffered major losses in midterms. Today, seven weeks before Election Day, Republican candidates at all levels are struggling with the additional burden of Trump’s weak approval ratings, an unpopular foreign conflict and an affordability crisis that Trump and his congressional allies had promised to fix. But when Trump campaigned in Gastonia last Wednesday, he played down the impact of surging gas prices. “You have a little higher. It’s a very inexpensive price to pay for what we’ve done,” Trump said of the war, which he describes as critical to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. “Remember that. It’s a little more. Frankly, even if it was a lot more.” “Gas prices matter,” Republican strategist says Despite what Trump says, there are few things that may matter more this election year than the price of a gallon of gasoline, according to political operatives in both parties. Gas prices are moving sharply in the wrong direction at a time of year when drivers typically get some relief. The national average for a gallon of gas reached $4.48 last Friday, according to AAA, up roughly 17 cents over the last week, 40 cents in a month and $1.27 from a year ago. “Gas prices matter because they’re one of the few economic indicators voters experience and see in real time,” said veteran Republican strategist Chris Wilson. “The price is literally staring them in the face several times a week. So I wouldn’t minimize

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CHATHAM COUNTY 26 SP 000096-180 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Allied Investors Group, LLC, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $215,800.00, to Kiavi Funding, Inc., Mortgagee, dated January 13th, 2025 and recorded on January 14th, 2025 in Book 2449, Page 1015, Chatham 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 Chatham 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 Chatham County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on October 6th, 2026, and will sell

COURTESY WIKIPEDIA

A worker operates an early computer system using punch cards, technology that helped usher in the modern computer age. plopped myself down in front of our brand-new Apple computer. I glanced at my legal pad, where I’d composed a noteworthy essay, and immediately began pounding the keys to produce a Word document I planned to submit to an editor. I zipped along. I had finished the first paragraph before I peered up at the screen. Voila! I leaned back in my swivel chair. There before me, I thought, I’d see my hook, my lede, the opening sentences about witnessing a solar eclipse off the coast of Spain. Instead, what appeared looked like hieroglyphics. I didn’t understand a word of it. My oeuvre was written in Chinese!

the frustration we’re seeing, particularly among working- and middle-class voters.” Interviews with voters this week found bipartisan frustration and disappointment. Democrats and independents were especially motivated to punish Republicans at the ballot box for their economic hardship, while some of Trump’s working-class supporters pledged to support Republicans this fall, even if they weren’t happy with the president’s leadership on the economy. Some Republicans say they’re disappointed

“You signed up for paperless billing.” Visa salesperson Huh? How did that happen? Smarter, computer-savvy folks might know, but I was clueless. I didn’t possess the savoir-faire to remedy the situation. What key did I need to press to type letters of the alphabet instead of those squiggles? Never had I acquired the prerequisite knowledge to solve such a dilemma. Did I consult an Apple manual that might reveal the solution? Nah. In my defense, I’m

publican because they’re the “lesser of two evils.” She said gas prices aren’t part of her calculation. “We don’t mind paying $8 for a cup of coffee at Starbucks, but we have a problem paying four bucks at the pump?” she said. “Make it make sense.” More than 1,500 miles to the north in central Michigan, 35-year-old Garth Johnson is trying to make ends meet running a deep-cleaning business with several gas-powered vehicles and one machine fueled by diesel, which was $6.79 a gallon as he filled up his SUV. Johnson voted for Trump, but doesn’t know what he’s going to do in November. Johnson doesn’t feel qualified to second-guess the president’s evaluation of the war, but he’s feeling financial pressure in his own life. “I like a lot of the things he’s done,” Johnson said but added, “I’m a little guy, and I’ve got to live my life.”

not sure I was supplied with one. So I called my son, the expert. He told me my iPhone was connected to my Apple computer and that I should use my phone. He added that he was too busy to help me. “OK,” I answered. I picked up my cellphone, opened my contacts and found a number in New York. I phoned his brother. Luckily, Henry wasn’t too busy to walk me through what to do. “Thanks. I owe you!” Sometimes, I wish I’d inherited a genetically programmed mind for technical stuff. If I wasn’t given the brain cells to understand computers, I wish I’d at least been bestowed with the patience to hunt for answers on my own instead of relying on my instant default: “Call a friend” or “phone a son.” Last night, my husband asked if I’d seen our Visa bill. “It should have arrived by now,” he said. “Maybe when we had our mail held for our trip, it came and got lost in the bundle?” He called the credit card company and explained that we had never received our bill the previous month and that was why they hadn’t received a check from us yet. The woman on the other end of the phone found our account. “You signed up for paperless billing,” she explained. On speakerphone, we exclaimed in unison, “No! We didn’t.” After all these years, my husband asked, when exactly had we signed up for paperless billing? “Aug. 1,” she answered. That date rang a bell. “Isn’t that when we got our new Apple computer?” I asked my spouse. He nodded. We called our third son and related our story.

“Gas prices matter because they’re one of the few economic indicators voters experience and see in real time. The price is literally staring them in the face several times a week.” Chris Wilson, Republican strategist

Dan Lloyd, who voted for Trump, lamented the president’s leadership as the 63-year-old carpenter paid $4.39 a gallon to fill up his pickup truck in Mesa, Arizona. “He hurt himself stepping into this,” Lloyd said of Trump. “Where’s all this oil from Venezuela? I thought we were flush with gas and everything, but no. The American people eat it every time, whether it’s interest rates, food, gasoline.” Still, he expects to vote Republican in the midterms. “I think the Democratic Party has lost its way,” Lloyd said. “I just feel like the whole system’s on the verge of collapse.” In sweltering Edinburg, Texas, 52-year-old Kristin Jimenez shrugged off the rising price of gas after filling up her Mercedes. “We’ve paid the same price under Republican presidents, we’ve paid this price under Democrat presidents,” said Jimenez, a mother who runs a small business. She plans to vote for a Re-

Midterm voting was already underway last Friday in Virginia, where 60-year-old engineer Alan Johnson said Trump seems to have “no empathy” for Americans who are struggling financially. “With the gas prices being what they are and continuing to grow, we’ve got to do something. Hopefully the Democrats can get into office and turn the ship around,” said Johnson, who cast ballots in the morning for Democrats for the U.S. Senate and U.S. House. In Raleigh, teacher Brittney

Bivins sees surging gas prices as evidence that Trump and his Republican Party aren’t dealing with the issues that matter most to people like her. “He really doesn’t care about everyday people,” the 45-year-old said. “He can afford the gas, but most of us can’t. So it feels like he’s not even connected to his own people.” Bivins, who described herself as an independent, said she’s eager to support Democrats this fall — especially the party’s emerging democratic socialist wing. At a gas station in Lansing, Michigan, Rina Risper spent $50 on eight gallons of premium gas. “When I rolled up I was in shock, actually, and said, ‘Well, maybe I should drink water instead of having that $4.99 bottle of whatever it was I was gonna get,’” Risper said. She thinks Trump’s tariffs will make affordability even worse. “We’re not in Miami. We’re in Lansing, Michigan,” she said. “It’s really going to impact our people.”

to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Beginning at an iron stake in the Northern Margin of Driftwood Road, the Southeast corner of Lot #50 and running thence North, 12 degrees 09 minutes East, 72.87 feet to an iron stake, thence North, 3 degrees 38 minutes East, 27.72 feet to an iron stake; thence North, 6 degrees 06 minutes West, 76.44 feet to an iron stake, the Northeast corner of Lot #50; thence South 87 degrees 01 minutes East, 28.19 feet to an iron stake designated control corner; thence onward South, 87 degrees 01 minutes East, 82.37 feet to an iron stake, the Northwest corner of Lot #48, thence South, 2 degrees 57 minutes West, 175.02 feet to an iron stake in the Northern margin of Driftwood Road; thence North, 87 degrees 01 minutes West 110.00 feet to the point of Beginning, and being a portion of Lot #49 as shown on plat entitled, “Homewood Acres, No. III Addition”, which plat is dated March 13, 1965. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 1004 Driftwood Drive, Siler City, NC 27344 Tax ID: 0015842 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 Allied Investors Group 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 §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 termination. If the Trustee is unable to convey

Other voters not so forgiving

“I don’t think I pressed anything that would have caused it to change to paperless billing,” he said. “Maybe it does it by default.” Not only are these modern computers smart, but they are also cagey! At any rate, we straightened out the snafu with the credit card company. So I’m going to return to scribbling stories about my travel adventures. Today, I want to describe seeing the solar eclipse and relate how the night of Aug. 12 was supposed to be the highlight of the trip — something we’d all remember for the rest of our lives, according to the astronomer aboard as the crowd peered toward the heavens. Yet I’m not sure that’s true. I remember the morning of Aug. 12 more vividly. While eating breakfast in the cafeteria-style dining room, I heard a commotion a couple of tables away. Two elderly Asian men were jabbing their fingers into each other’s chests while engaging in a loud altercation. One had asked the other to turn down the volume on his iPhone. The man with the phone pushed it up against the complaining man’s ear and turned the volume even louder. Next, they pushed back their chairs and stood, squaring off, each poking the other in the chest with an index finger. Ship stewards ran over to referee — or, I should say, separate — the contenders. They ushered them out of the dining room. The show was over. The takeaway from this essay is twofold: First, there is never a dull moment on an ocean cruise. Second, technology plays a part in nearly every aspect of life, even those supposedly quiet minutes spent savoring a delicious Gruyere omelet en route to the northern coast of Spain to behold a solar eclipse.

Most voters think Trump’s administration has made economy worse, poll shows Nationwide, more than three times as many voters say they are falling behind financially as getting ahead, according to a Fox News survey released Wednesday. By a 15% margin, Democrats are considered the party that would better handle inflation and prices at a time when the cost of living and the economy are voters’ top concerns. The Fox poll found that 61% of voters say gas prices are a major problem for their household, compared with 48% two years ago, while 52% say the same for healthcare costs, compared with 44% in 2024. Majorities also view housing costs and grocery prices as major problems, although neither has increased. Overall, nearly two-thirds of voters (63%) say the administration has made the economy worse, compared with 52% in September 2025, including one-quarter of Republicans. Only 46% of Republicans say the administration has improved the economy, while about one-quarter don’t see an impact. Back in rural South Texas, an area where Trump’s GOP made gains in recent elections, Martinez, the Amazon delivery driver, could not contain his frustration. Trump “likes to tout that we are the best economy in the world,” said Martinez, but in more rural towns, “you don’t see any of the winning, you don’t see any of the ups that he’s talking about.” “You just see struggles for day-to-day life,” he said.

title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Substitute Trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee 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 26-002886-01

CHATHAM SPORTS PREP FOOTBALL

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Jordan-Matthews senior JJ White signals a first down in a game earlier this season.

Bears add to special season Chatham Central won its first conference game to remain undefeated

Chatham News & Record staff GAVIN WILLIAMS reached the end zone on a pass reception with four seconds left to break a tie and lift Chatham Central to a 30-24 victory against Winston-Salem Prep in a Greater Triad Conference football opener last Thurs-

day night in Winston-Salem. Quarterback Brooks Albright ran for two touchdowns and passed for the go-ahead points. His 2-yard run with slightly more than a minute left allowed the Bears to pull even. Nolan Mitchell’s interception got the ball back to set up Chatham Central’s winning touchdown. The Bears (4-0) have already secured the program’s best record since 2005 regardless of results the rest of the season. Albright finished with 101

Week 6 games FRIDAY • Chatham Central at North Stokes • Jordan-Matthews at East Chapel Hill

passing yards and 65 rushing yards. Chatham Central’s Matthew Victorino returned an interception 90 yards for a touchdown. Winston-Salem Prep dropped to 1-4.

• Seaforth 50, North Moore 0: On Friday in Pittsboro, Duncan Parker threw for four touchdowns and ran for another as the Hawks reached the 50-point mark for the second time this season with the home romp. Noah Fuller and Mason Pooley both had two touchdown receptions. Jude O’Neill scored on a run. Seaforth (4-1) notched its second shutout of the season. Jeremiah Gilmore returned a fumble for a touchdown. North Moore dropped to 0-5. Seaforth is off until its Big Seven Conference opener Oct. 2 at Orange.

• Providence Grove 45, Jordan-Matthews 6: At Climax, Connor Tozar scored on offense and defense, Nick Straughn ran for two touchdowns, and the Patriots snapped a two-game skid with the home victory. Tozar returned an interception for a touchdown and also caught one of Landon Fox’s two touchdown throws. Fox also passed to Braedyn Waddell for a touchdown. Straughn gained 130 yards on 10 carries. Hunner Norris also had a touchdown run for the Patriots (3-2). Kyler Keller kicked a field goal and six extra-point kicks. Jordan-Matthews fell to 2-3.

PREP ROUNDUP

Volleyball streak ends for Seaforth Chatham Charter also had a winning streak come to a close Chatham News & Record staff

COURTESY NORTHWOOD HIGH SCHOOL BOOSTERS / FACEBOOK

Northwood’s Vince Karpf (21) leaps for the game-saving interception.

Northwood wins on late TD The Chargers made a number of clutch plays to pull out a victory By Bob Sutton Chatham News & Record RAJE TORRES scored on an 11-yard run with less than a minute to play for the only touchdown of the second half in Northwood’s 21-14 home victory against North Surry last Friday night in Pittsboro. “It was something new for us,” Northwood coach Dalton Brown said. “We hadn’t scored at the end of any half this year, so this was a good time for it.” Brody Murchinson had an early touchdown run and Aiden Girard scored early on a long run for the Chargers (2-3), who trailed 14-13 at halftime before

“It was like a huge program win. When the offense wasn’t feeling it, defense picked it up.” Dalton Brown, Northwood coach avenging a 27-point loss from a year ago. Northwood’s defense stood tall until the offense came through in the clutch. The winning drive began with about four minutes to play and the Chargers needed to cover 70-plus yards. “We were moving it pretty well all night, so we were confident,” Brown said. Following the go-ahead touchdown with 55 seconds

left, Torres also scored on the ensuing 2-point conversion on a pass from Finn Sullivan. Vince Karpf’s interception sealed the outcome. Girard finished with 146 rushing yards on 14 carries. Murchinson gained 64 yards on 11 attempts, while Sullivan completed 11 of 17 passes for 160 yards. Campbell Parks posted 64 receiving yards on three catches. “It was like a huge program win,” Brown said. “When the offense wasn’t feeling it, defense picked it up.” Rowan Fisher led the Northwood defense with 11 tackles, while Girard was in on nine stops. Jackson Freeman’s interception came prior to the Chargers’ first touchdown. One of North Surry’s See NORTHWOOD, page B2

SEAFORTH’S volleyball team had a seven-match winning streak halted with last Thursday’s four-set defeat at Cedar Ridge in the Big Seven Conference. Two days earlier, the Hawks were 25-22, 25-23, 25-18 winners against visiting Carrboro as Sarah Beth Smith recorded 18 kills, Abigail Valgus had 29 assists, Isabelle Valgus supplied 20 digs, and Arden Kelly and Ally Forbes each provided 10 service points. • Northwood won a Four Rivers Conference home match in four sets vs. visiting North Moore and then lost 25-22, 25-

9, 25-11 to visiting Southwestern Randolph. • Jordan-Matthews lost on three consecutive days last week in sweeps, losing at home to Southwestern Randolph and then on the road to Lee County and Uwharrie Charter Academy. • Chatham Central won two Greater Triad Conference road matches by topping Winston-Salem Prep 25-14, 25-21, 25-22 and North Stokes 26-24, 11-25, 26-24, 25-20. • Woods Charter won nine of its first 10 matches, including last week’s 25-9, 25-11, 25-6 sweep of visiting The Hawbridge School in the Central Tar Heel 1A Conference. • Chatham Charter edged Central Carolina Academy 2511, 22-25, 20-25, 26-24, 15-10 See ROUNDUP, page B2

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Seaforth’s volleyball team congratulates Carrboro after a recent win.

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

ATHLETES OF THE WEEK

Bettina Crump Boylorn, Jake Houck, Lauren Rhyne Oldham, Dante Lee and Cortney Gunter

COURTESY NORTHWOOD HIGH SCHOOL BOOSTERS / FACEBOOK

The Northwood High School’s Hall of Fame class of 2026 was inducted at last Friday’s football game. The new members are, left to right: Bettina Crump Boylorn: A 1974 graduate who was one of the pioneers of Northwood girls’ sports. She played basketball, softball, and track and field. Jake Houck: A 2009 graduate who was an all-state basketball player and regional MVP of the 2009 state runners-up. He was also all-conference in football and baseball. Lauren Rhyne Oldham: A 2010 graduate who was four-time all-conference and all-district in softball, winning all-state twice. She led Northwood to three conference titles and won conference player of the year as a senior before going on to play at Elon. Dante Lee: A 1997 graduate who was conference and area player of the year in basketball. He was also all-conference in football and won conference championships in track and field. He was a two-time Northwood Male Athlete of the Year. Cortney Gunter: A 2005 graduate who was two-time all-conference in football and also played basketball. He set several school weightlifting records and went on to play at Greensboro College.

NORTHWOOD from page B1 touchdowns came on Jhett Tolbert’s kickoff return. Murchinson had a 17-yard run prior to his 1-yard touchdown run that gave the Chargers their first points. Girard ran 67 yards for his touchdown.

Beau Carson racked up 116 receiving yards for North Surry (3-2), but quarterback Brett Lyons was limited to a 57.9% completion rate. Northwood is off until its Oct. 2 game at Eastern Randolph to open Four Rivers Conference play.

Bridgeman rallies with career-best 61 to win inaugural Biltmore Championship The Sunday rally wiped out a five-shot deficit The Associated Press ASHEVILLE — Jacob Bridgeman rallied from a five-shot deficit with the lowest round of his young PGA Tour career, a 10-under 61 that carried him to a two-shot victory Sunday in the Biltmore Championship Asheville. Bridgeman, whose first PGA Tour title was earlier this year at Riviera in the Genesis Invitational, became the sixth multiple winner this season. His victory came several hours after J.J. Spaun won the BMW PGA Championship on the European tour, making a statement that perhaps he deserved consideration as a Presidents Cup pick for the U.S. team. Bridgeman’s victory was a reminder why he was one of the U.S. picks for the event next week outside Chicago. The 26-year-old from South Carolina was practically flawless at The Cliffs at Walnut Grove, and given the rain-softened conditions, there was no other choice. J.T. Poston had a 25-foot putt for 59 that he narrowly missed, and Ben James also shot a 61. Neal Shipley, the 54-hole leader, couldn’t keep pace. He didn’t make his first birdie until the par-5 eighth hole, and by the time he finally was under par for his round it was too late. Bridgeman had eagle attempts from 10 feet and about 20 feet late in his round, missed them both for tap-in birdies and finished at 26-under 258. He won by two shots over James, who birdied three of his last

ROUNDUP from page B1 in the Central Tar Heel 1A Conference. But the Knights had an eightgame winning streak end with last Thursday’s 25-19, 10-25, 25-23, 18-25, 16-6 loss at River Mill. BOYS’ SOCCER Seaforth won its Big Seven Conference opener by nipping

MIKE STEWART / AP PHOTO

Jacob Bridgeman speaks during a press conference earlier this year. four holes and had to scramble for par on the final hole. Jackson Koivun, the 21-year-old who made his pro debut in early July and won in his third start, also was one of Brandt Snedeker’s picks for the Presidents Cup matches at Medinah. Koivun had a 63-65 weekend and tied for fifth. Bridgeman, who leads the PGA Tour in the key putting statistic, leaned hard on his putter. Along with eight birdies and an eagle, two of his biggest putts were for par on the 11th and 12th holes to keep him in the chase. He made a 13-foot par putt on the 11th, and then after going bunker-to-bunker on the par-4 12th, Bridgeman made a 12-foot putt. He followed with three straight birdies to pull away. He grew up about an hour away in Inman, South Caro-

lina, and had his parents, his wife’s parents and plenty of other family members watching. His parents were not in Los Angeles when he won earlier this year. “I think they wanted me to get a win in front of them,” Bridgeman said. “I didn’t think it would happen this soon. I’m just super pumped.” James had a 61 in his second straight tournament. It just wasn’t enough to catch Bridgeman. Shipley wound up with a 69 and tied for third with Ricky Castillo (65), three shots behind. Shipley came into the first of eight FedEx Cup Fall events at No. 183 in the standings. The FedEx Cup Fall determines the top 100 who keep full cards for 2027. With his tie for third, Shipley moved up only to No. 135.

visiting Cedar Ridge 3-2. • Jordan-Matthews ended in a 2-2 tie with visiting Wheatmore. The Jets recovered for that result after a 7-0 setback at East Chapel Hill. • Northwood didn’t have a game last week. Its Four Rivers Conference opener will come Monday night at Eastern Randolph. • Woods Charter secured a 4-1 overtime victory at Clover

Garden in the Central Tar Heel 1A Conference after defeating visiting Ascend Leadership Academy 2-0 in league play. • Chatham Charter lost its first two Central Tar Heel 1A Conference games, falling 3-2 at The Hawbridge School and by 9-1 to visiting Southern Wake. Chatham Charter’s Breylan Harris and Colten Pena scored in the first loss of the week. Carson Shelton scored in the next game.

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

NC State’s Doeren faces test of rallying Wolfpack after shocking loss to Vanderbilt The last-second loss was a blow to the locker room By Aaron Beard The Associated Press NC STATE coach Dave Doeren has led his Wolfpack through tough moments before. Doing so this week — after suffering one of the most stunning and improbable losses in recent memory in college football — will be a tougher challenge. The Wolfpack led Saturday before quarterback CJ Bailey lost a fumble in the end zone while trying to burn the clock and take an intentional safety, turning a road win against a Southeastern Conference opponent into a 35-31 loss at Vanderbilt that has dominated national headlines and replay clips. That’s left the 14th-year coach with more wins than any coach in program history facing the challenge of rallying a team from a devastating loss in time for Saturday night’s visit from Appalachian State.

GEORGE WALKER IV / AP PHOTO

NC State head coach Dave Doeren looks onto the field during the second half of the Wolfpack’s game at Vanderbilt on Saturday in Nashville, Tennessee. “It’s a terrible way to end a football game that you controlled,” Doeren said Monday afternoon. “So there was a lot of pain in that locker room after the game, a lot of anger. I know the fans feel the same way.” The moment will haunt Do-

eren and the Wolfpack (1-2) regardless of what happens from here. According to ESPN, college football teams were 1,046-1 over the last 20 seasons when having the ball and the lead with 10 seconds to go in a game. NC State led 31-28 and faced

a fourth-and-3 play from its own 5-yard line with 6 seconds left. Bailey could have taken a knee or scrambled out of the back of the end zone to all but seal the win while giving up a safety. Instead, the third-year starter started running toward the oncoming desperation pass rush, then took a hit that knocked the ball loose for Vanderbilt to recover as a winning touchdown. Doeren said it was a scenario the team practices regularly, and that Bailey was “trying to get too much time off the clock.” “When a play isn’t executed properly, there’s two things that are true,” Doeren said. “The player didn’t do what he was coached or trained to do, and the coach didn’t do a good enough job training the player to do what he wanted him to do. And both of those things are true. “Like I said after the game: CJ takes ownership, I take ownership, (offensive coordinator) Kurt Roper takes ownership, we take ownership.” Doeren said he and Bailey have spent time “just talking

through” the whole sequence since Saturday. “Letting him vent and talk, letting me do the same,” Doeren said. “He and I love each other and have a lot of respect for each other.” Doeren said he was “just so mad and in shock at what went down” immediately after the game, particularly with the Wolfpack playing well enough to win right up until that moment. “You never sleep as a coach after a tough loss, particularly a loss like that when you feel like you were the better team,” Doeren said. Asked about any other comparable experience he could draw from, Doeren referenced a 2016 loss at Clemson. That game saw the Wolfpack miss a short field goal to win at the end of regulation before losing in overtime. Doeren has brought it all up with this year’s team. “That devastated our locker room for a long period of time,” Doeren said. “I’m not going to let that happen.”

GEORGE WALKER IV / AP PHOTO

Vanderbilt defensive end Miles Capers (29) celebrates the team’s win over NC State.

Local Service Directory

B4 SIDELINE REPORT NFL

NFL says teams can’t sign Harris, Wright after attempts to play for LSU New York The NFL has sent a memo to each of its teams saying Zxavian Harris and Dae’Quan Wright are not eligible to join any NFL teams this season after they attempted to return to college and play for LSU. Harris and Wright both played for Mississippi last season and had tryouts in the NFL this summer after going undrafted. They then tried joining former Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin at LSU and sued for the right to regain their college eligibility. LSU left both players off its roster as it opened its season.

MLB

Paralyzed A’s minor leaguer Lasko leaves hospital West Orange, N.J. Ryan Lasko, a minor league prospect with the Athletics who was paralyzed in an outfield collision more than two months ago, was released from an in-patient rehabilitation hospital to continue his recovery from home. The 24-year-old Lasko was released exactly two months after arriving at the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in New Jersey. It’s about 35 miles from where he attended college at Rutgers and became a second-round draft pick by the A’s in 2023.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Avs’ 41-year-old defenseman Burns trimmed beard, not ambition The former Hurricane enters 23rd season

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Brent Burns smiles at his teammates at the end of game in March.

By Pat Graham The Associated Press ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The famed bushy beard of Brent Burns was neatly groomed. His hair, too. When he smiled, front teeth gleamed in the gap where he once had none. It’s a fresh look as the 41-year-old Colorado Avalanche defenseman embarks on his 23rd NHL season. But he’s still the colorful character they refer to as “Burnsy,” the one who’s still up for the grind as he chases his first Stanley Cup title. The one who took a young player under his wing this summer and invited him into his house. The one who doesn’t focus on the possibility of breaking the league’s all-time ironman streak, which, health willing, could happen in February. “I’m trying to figure out what stick I’m going to use tomorrow, what I’m going to eat tonight,” said Burns, who has played in 1,007 straight regular-season games and sits 57 away from tying the mark of Phil Kessel. “I don’t really think about all the other stuff.” Retirement didn’t even really cross his mind after the Avalanche were swept by Vegas in the Western Conference final. He signed another one-year deal in late June and was right back to training. His superpower, according to teammate Brock Nelson, is his ability to stay young at heart. “I don’t think he strikes anybody as a 41-year-old. He still seems like an 18-, 19-year-old

ERIN HOOLEY / AP PHOTO

kid,” the 34-year-old Nelson said. “Just having fun, always laughing and having a good time.” Chasing Kessel’s ironman streak Kessel’s consecutive games streak stands at 1,064 and took place from Nov. 3, 2009, to April 13, 2023. Should Burns remain in the lineup, he could tie the mark Feb. 13 at Tampa Bay and break it two days later in front of the home crowd against Columbus. “I’m not going to be the guy that breaks that streak,” Avs coach Jared Bednar said. “I’ve got way too much respect for him, for what he’s done in his career, and for what he’s doing for us on a daily basis. He’s proven to me that he deserves to be in our lineup. I’m hoping that he can stay healthy and get it. I wish him the best of luck, and I just hope his health holds up.”

“Just trying to stay afloat most of the time — and figure out what’s for dinner.” Brent Burns Bednar added that Burns returned this season in “phenomenal condition.” “It’s not just the beard that’s making him look younger — or lack of a beard — I think he’s in great condition.” But there’s another factor that goes into keeping the streak going: good fortune. That’s why he doesn’t fret about it. “There’s just too much that can happen,” said Burns, whose streak began on Nov. 21, 2013, while with San Jose. “If you start thinking about that, (expletive) will happen. I’m not really lying, I don’t really think about it.

“Just trying to stay afloat most of the time — and figure out what’s for dinner.” A long season He embraces the grind of a long season, which he still relishes. “I must,” he said, referring to his longevity. As for his groomed beard, he said, “it’s a little different, for sure.” But he found an advantage: The trim makes him more aerodynamic on the ice to keep up with the youngsters. “You’ve got to enjoy the fun things, the (expletive) things, the mundane things,” Burns said. “You’ve got to enjoy being at the rink. It’s not easy. It’s not all great. Some hard days, hard work. But I think when you’re with a group that loves to work and we just naturally have fun doing it, it definitely helps, too. “I think that’s an important part, just to enjoy that process.”

NBA

Knicks star Brunson to make appearance on “Law & Order: SVU” New York New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson will make a guest-starring appearance on “Law & Order: SVU” this fall. NBC announced Brunson will appear in the season’s fifth episode, which is scheduled to air Nov. 5. Details on Brunson’s exact role weren’t revealed. Brunson already is set to host the season premiere of “Saturday Night Live” on Sept. 26. He made an appearance in the opening of the Emmy Awards telecast that was hosted by “Law & Order: SVU” star Mariska Hargitay.

NCAA FOOTBALL

CFP clarifies how committee can respond to Michigan-WMU result The College Football Playoff says it can’t change the outcome of any games played during the regular season but notes that its selection committee relies on various measures beyond wins and losses. The CFP statement follows the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision Oversight Committee’s announcement that it also doesn’t have the authority to overturn the result of No. 19 Michigan’s controversial 13-12 victory over Western Michigan. The CFP notes that its selection committee “evaluates all teams on a comprehensive body of work over a full season, driven by how teams perform in each game.”

Wide receiver Coker thriving in Carolina while first-round pick Legette struggles The Holy Cross product has developed into an NFL starter By Steve Reed The Associated Press CHARLOTTE — Wide receiver Jalen Coker, an undrafted rookie in 2024, is thriving with the Carolina Panthers. The same can’t be said for the team’s first-round draft pick that year, Xavier Legette. Legette finds himself firmly behind Coker on the depth chart — and the gap only seems to be widening. Coker, who took over Carolina’s No. 2 wide receiver spot opposite Tetairoa McMillan late last season, turned in an eye-catching performance to open the season with eight catches for a career-high 138 yards and two touchdowns last weekend against the Bears. That came after he hauled in nine passes for 134 yards and a touchdown in last year’s wild-card playoff game against the Rams. “The NFL has no respect for rounds,” Panthers coach Dave Canales said of the NFL Draft. Canales points to the 2014 Seattle Seahawks, a team he worked for as an assistant coach. The Seahawks reached the Super Bowl with mostly undrafted wide receivers on their roster. “They were tough guys who cared, and were intentional about their work. They made plays when the plays came to them,” Canales said. “And it’s as simple as that. ... For all of these guys on our team, when the quarterback gives you an opportunity, make the play. He will come back to you again.” Bryce Young has learned he can trust Coker to catch the ball, and he keeps going back to him. Over the last 12 games, Young has thrown 62 balls to Coker and he’s caught 81% of them. Coker first turned heads

SCOTT KINSER / AP PHOTO

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Jalen Coker makes a catch to score a touchdown against the Bears. in Carolina in a 2024 game against Denver, when he made a difficult leaping catch along the sideline just weeks after being promoted from the practice squad. “At that time, he still didn’t have a full grasp for what our system was,” Canales said. “All he knew was he had a one-on-one opportunity, go get the ball. Jalen has got that type of gamesmanship. If you talk to him, he’s the nicest kid in the world. When he gets between the lines, it’s a different animal.” Part of that mentality comes from his desire to prove to the league that he belongs. Coker wasn’t highly recruited out of high school — he had average speed — and wound up at Holy Cross. He put up big numbers his first two seasons and had some opportunities to transfer and play for bigger schools. But he kept a promise to his mother and stayed in Worcester, Massachusetts. “I just remember my mom

told me, ‘If you commit here, you’re committing to go here for all four years — no transferring, none of that stuff,’” Coker said. “So I said, ‘OK, I made a commitment. I’m sticking to it.’” Coker missed the first third of the 2025 season with a quad injury, and slowly saw more playing time as the season went on. He finished the regular season with 33 catches for 394 yards and three touchdowns. That, along with the big performance in the playoff game, persuaded the Panthers to give him a three-year, $35 million contract extension this offseason — a deal that could end up being a huge bargain for the Panthers if he continues to produce like he has the last two games. The rest of the league seems to be taking notice of No. 18. Falcons cornerback Jessie Bates III said before Atlanta’s game Sunday against the Panthers that the Falcons can’t focus all of their attention on McMillan, last season’s

Offensive Rookie of the Year. Coker can beat them too. “I think he’s just someone that Bryce has created some chemistry with and someone that he really trusts,” Bates said. “He can give him a chance, 50-50 balls. He can really trust that dude to go make some plays for him. So I just think that he’s a really good receiver. It’ll be another draft that doesn’t explain what type of player he is.” Coker said success came quickly for him last season, but added that he approached this offseason needing to improve on “everything.” “I just want to continue to elevate what I did last year and just make it just a little bit better,” Coker said. “Work on run after the catch. I have a few passes in the playoff game in particular that I want back. There were plays I could have been better, just cleaner.” Coker added: “I still have a ton of work to do. By no means have I arrived or anything like that.”

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Logano claims Cup playoff victory at Bristol Carson Hocevar and Ryan Blaney fought afterward The Associated Press BRISTOL, Tenn. — Joey Logano won the Cup Series race Saturday at Bristol Motor Speedway, while the driver he passed for the win stole the show with old-school NASCAR feuding and fisticuffs. Carson Hocevar, a brash 23-year-old who has earned the ire of veterans with his aggressive driving, traded punches in the pits with Ryan Blaney after they were involved in an incident while racing for second with 41 laps left. Hocevar stopped his car after finishing third and was greeted by a shove from Blaney.

The 6-foot-4 Hocevar, who stands several inches taller than Blaney, responded with two overhand rights. The first knocked off Blaney’s hat, and the second connected with Blaney’s left cheek. Blaney fell to the pavement and then scrambled to his feet and out of a crew member’s hold while Hocevar raised his arms and pointed at him. Blaney charged and threw a wild left that knocked off Hocevar’s hat. They then were separated by team members as Blaney continued to yell at Hocevar. “There wasn’t a whole lot of talking,” Hocevar said. “He just kind of said one thing and then went after me, and I wasn’t going to take it. I got ran into a lot for the win. That was for second, and he wants to come fight. They got an old-school Bristol show here.”

“There wasn’t a whole lot of talking,” Carson Hocevar The contact between the drivers started shortly after Blaney took second with an outside pass of Hocevar, who immediately slid his No. 77 Chevrolet down the track. Blaney moved low to block, and Hocevar stayed in the accelerator to knock the No. 12 Ford into a spin that ended in the inside wall. “I don’t know what I did wrong there,” Hocevar said. “I crossed him over and looked like he spun himself, and then he wants to instigate a fight. I was going to finish that, and it seemed like the crowd was pretty pumped up, so

I was going to play the audience for a second.” Blaney, who led a race-high 202 laps despite starting 29th, was already frustrated after falling into heavy traffic because of a penalty for a pit lane violation with just over 100 laps remaining. His rally was cut short by the crash that dropped him to sixth in the Chase standings with his second consecutive finish outside the top 30. In an interview during the race, Blaney said, “I tried to protect the bottom, he crossed and never lifted, and I got crashed.” When asked which driver was at fault, Blaney said, “I don’t (expletive) know. Each person is going to say they did nothing wrong.” Kyle Larson finished second to move into the Chase lead by a point over Denny Hamlin.

Christopher Bell was fourth, followed by Ty Gibbs, who led 120 laps before finishing fifth. Gibbs and Hocevar exchanged the lead four times in the final 100 laps. Their battle for first after a restart with nine laps remaining opened the door for Logano, who zipped past Hocevar and led the final seven laps. With his 40th career victory and third this season, Logano became the winningest Cup Series driver for Team Penske and moved into third place in the Chase points standings. But he realized all of those accomplishments would be eclipsed by videos of the Blaney-Hocevar fight that he still had yet to see. “I’m sure I’ll see it all week long,” Logano said, pausing to add with a laugh. “They’ll probably forget who won the race.”

WADE PAYNE / AP PHOTO

Ty Gibbs (54) leads Carson Hocevar (77), Kyle Larson (5) and Ryan Blaney (12) during Saturday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Bristol.

Sanchez eyes NWSL record in career season with North Carolina The Courage midfielder looks to score 20 goals By Drew Renner The Associated Press ASHLEY SANCHEZ entered the season with a number in mind. Nineteen goals later, the finish line keeps moving. First, the North Carolina Courage midfielder wanted 10 goals. Then 15. Now, after setting the National Women’s Soccer League single-season scoring record for an American player, Sanchez has settled on another number — and another record to break. “What’s funny was, I did have a goal, and then it just kept moving,” Sanchez said. “Now, I guess it’s just 20.” Sanchez’s latest goal, a curling strike into the top right corner in the 82nd minute against the San Diego Wave on Saturday, moved her within one of Temwa Chawinga’s NWSL single-season record of 20 in 2024. It came after Sanchez scored a hat trick in a 6-0 win over the Chicago Stars, earning her the third NWSL Player of the Week honor this season. For the 27-year-old, this kind of scoring output would have

seemed unlikely a year ago. Sanchez scored five goals in 2024 and two last season. Before this year, she had never recorded a professional brace. Now, she has five multigoal games, including her first career hat trick, and is the runaway leader in the NWSL’s Golden Boot race with six games left for the Courage in the regular season. “This is my first year playing this position,” Sanchez said. “I do think that I could do even more.” The move out wide had an early believer. Sanchez said her fiancé, former professional soccer player Tommy Williamson, was one of the first people to see her potential as a winger. The two trained together, working specifically on the position long before the flurry of goals. “He was like, ‘Oh, I think this would be really good for you in this spot. Let’s get some reps here,’” Sanchez said. Courage coach Mak Lind said the goals are the result of qualities Sanchez already possessed. “She has herself to thank,” Lind said. “The only thing I’ve been doing, together with the coaching side, is to make sure she understands her potential.” As Sanchez has found a new

MARK ZALESKI / AP PHOTO

U.S. midfielder Ashley Sanchez (2) kicks the ball away from Japan midfielder Fuka Nagano (8). rhythm on the field, she has also found more balance away from it. Sanchez said she used to be “lazy” when she came home from training, but getting a second dog about a year and a half ago changed her routine. Benny, an energetic yellow Labrador, joined her French bulldog, Nala, and made sitting around less of an option. Sanchez now takes them to the park nearly every day. Those trips have become a way to slow down, spend time in nature and ground. “This job is a lot, and it’s chaotic,” Sanchez said. “I try to calm myself.”

“What’s funny was, I did have a goal, and then it just kept moving,” Ashley Sanchez On the pitch, opponents are paying increasingly close attention. Ahead of Saturday’s match, Sanchez said one of San Diego’s “Keys of the Game” caught her eye: “Silent Sanchez.” That level of attention is unfamiliar, even for a player who made her senior U.S. national team debut in 2021 and went

to the 2023 World Cup. Sanchez has 28 international appearances but has not been called into a U.S. camp since January 2025. She said this season has not been about proving anything. “I’ve just been really enjoying this season,” Sanchez said, “and I feel like I’m showing the joy that I’m having with the things that I’ve been able to do on the field.” Even as the attention around Sanchez grows, Lind said her approach has stayed the same. “It’s easy to get hyped when you hear people talk about you, but she’s so humble in what she does,” Lind said. “So that makes me believe that she’s not done with scoring goals.”

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

entertainment this week in history British occupy Philadelphia, R. Kelly convicted, coronavirus death toll hits 1 million The Associated Press SEPT. 24 1789: President George Washington signed a Judiciary Act establishing America’s federal court system and creating the post of attorney general. 1869: Thousands of businessmen were ruined in a Wall Street panic known as “Black Friday” after financiers Jay Gould and James Fisk attempted to corner the gold market. 1906: President Theodore Roosevelt established Devil’s Tower in Wyoming as the first U.S. national monument. SEPT. 25 1513: Spanish explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa crossed the Isthmus of Panama and sighted the Pacific Ocean. 1956: The first trans-Atlantic telephone cable officially went into service with a three-way ceremonial call between New York, Ottawa and London. 2018: Bill Cosby was sentenced to three to 10 years in prison for drugging and molesting a woman at his suburban Philadelphia home. (After serving nearly three years, Cosby went free in June 2021 after the Pennsylvania Supreme Court overturned his conviction.) SEPT. 26 1777: British troops occupied Philadelphia during the American Revolution. 1960: The first nationally televised debate between pres-

idential candidates took place as Democrat John F. Kennedy and Republican Richard M. Nixon faced off in Chicago. 2024: Helene, a major Category 4 hurricane, made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region. It went on to cut a swath across Georgia and South Carolina before triggering historic flooding in North Carolina and Tennessee, causing an estimated $78 billion in damage and 219 deaths. SEPT. 27 1940: Germany, Italy and Japan signed the Tripartite Pact, formally allying the World War II Axis powers. 1964: The government publicly released the report of the Warren Commission, which concluded that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone in assassinating President John F. Kennedy. 2021: R&B singer R. Kelly was convicted in a sex trafficking trial in New York after numerous allegations of misconduct with young women and children. SEPT. 28 1781: American forces in the Revolutionary War, backed by a French fleet, began their successful siege of Yorktown, Virginia. 1928: Scottish medical researcher Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin, the first broadly effective antibiotic. 2020: The worldwide death toll from the coronavirus pandemic reached 1 million, according to a count by Johns Hopkins University. SEPT. 29 1789: Congress officially established a regular army under the U.S. Constitution.

WARNER BROS. / WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Actor James Dean, shown in a publicity still for “Rebel Without a Cause,” died Sept. 30, 1955, at age 24 after his Porsche crashed near Cholame, California.

1938: British, French, German and Italian leaders concluded the Munich Agreement, which was aimed at appeasing Adolf Hitler by allowing Nazi annexation of Czechoslovakia’s Sudetenland. 1954: Willie Mays of the New York Giants made a running, over-the-shoulder catch of a ball hit by Vic Wirtz of the Cleveland Indians in Game 1 of the World Series; “The Catch” would become one of the most famous plays in baseball history. SEPT. 30 1791: Mozart’s opera “The Magic Flute” premiered in Vienna. 1947: The World Series was broadcast on television for the first time, as the New York Yankees defeated the Brooklyn Dodgers 5-3 in Game 1; the Yankees would go on to win the Series four games to three. 1955: Actor James Dean was killed at age 24 in a two-car collision near Cholame, California.

MIKE STEWART / AP PHOTO

Debris covers part of Asheville after Hurricane Helene struck the Southeast on Sept. 26, 2024, bringing catastrophic flooding to western North Carolina.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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Burna Boy to headline halftime at NFL’s first regular-season game in Paris The Jonas Brothers performed at the league’s game in Melbourne By Jonathan Landrum Jr. The Associated Press

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LOS ANGELES — Burna Boy is returning to Stade de France for another historic moment, headlining halftime at the NFL’s first regular-season game in Paris. The Grammy-winning Nigerian star will perform Oct. 25 when the Pittsburgh Steelers face the New Orleans Saints at Stade de France, the league announced Thursday. The performance marks a return to the stadium for Burna Boy, who last year became the first African artist to headline Stade de France. “Paris gave me one of the biggest nights of my career, and to walk back into Stade de France for a moment like this means everything,” Burna Boy told The Associated Press in a statement. “The NFL is bringing something to France that has never happened here before, and I get to stand in the middle

AMY HARRIS / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Burna Boy performs during the first weekend of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in 2025. of it representing African music and I intend to give the people a show they will not forget.” The Paris game is part of the NFL’s largest international season to date, with games being played across several countries and four continents. The league is staging a record seven halftime shows as it increasingly pairs its overseas games with major music acts. Burna Boy joins a lineup that

includes Ricky Martin and Pedro Sampaio for the NFL’s Rio de Janeiro game on Sept. 27, Ayra Starr in London on Oct. 11, Cage the Elephant in Munich on Nov. 15 and Mexican rock trio The Warning in Mexico City on Nov. 22. “The first NFL game in France deserves a halftime moment that matches the occasion, and there is no artist better suited to it than Burna Boy,”

Reiner avoids death penalty over parents’ killings, still faces life in prison Nick Reiner appears during his arraignment on murder charges for the deaths of his parents Feb. 23 in Los Angeles.

The 33-year-old son of filmmaker Rob Reiner was charged in December By Andrew Dalton The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — Hollywood filmmaker Rob Reiner’s son will not face the death penalty on charges he fatally stabbed his parents after lying in wait at their home in Los Angeles last year, prosecutors said last Tuesday. If convicted, the maximum sentence 33-year-old Nick Reiner could get is life without the possibility of parole, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman said at a news conference. Before reaching its decision, Hochman said his office did a thorough review, including speaking to Rob and Michele Singer Reiner’s families and evaluating mitigating factors in Nick Reiner’s favor. Nick Reiner, who briefly appeared at a court hearing, has twice pleaded not guilty. The death penalty had been on the table because of the lying-in-wait allegation, the fact that multiple people were killed, and the use of a knife, which is considered a danger-

CHRIS TORRES / POOL PHOTO VIA AP

ous weapon. However, it’s been two decades since California’s last execution, and Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a moratorium on the practice in 2019. Nick Reiner’s public defender highlights his mental illness Reiner’s attorney, Deputy Public Defender Kimberly

solutions

Greene, said prosecutors made the right decision. “Nick has a serious mental illness and a long history of struggling with self-medication. His circumstances are a tragic example of how difficult it can be for people experiencing significant mental health challenges to access and navigate the treatment and support they need,” Greene said in a statement. “Nothing can

undo the profound loss experienced by the Reiner family and those who loved them. Our hearts remain with the family.” Nick Reiner was charged with first-degree murder on Dec. 16, two days after the stunning killings. Reiner’s former defense attorney, Alan Jackson, adamantly insisted that “pursuant to the laws of California, Nick Reiner is not guilty of murder.”

said Tim Tubito, the NFL’s senior director of global game presentation, music and entertainment. Tubito said Burna Boy’s history in the stadium and the popularity of African music in Paris made him a natural choice for the inaugural game. Burna Boy, whose music draws from Afrobeats, hip-hop, reggae, R&B and other influences, won a Grammy for his 2020 album “Twice as Tall.” His catalog includes “African Giant,” “Love, Damini” and his most recent album, “No Sign of Weakness.” He has also become one of African music’s most prominent touring acts, performing in arenas and stadiums around the world while helping open doors for a generation of African artists. The league has played more than 60 regular-season games outside the United States, with previous stops including London, Munich, Frankfurt, Madrid, Dublin, São Paulo, Mexico City and Toronto. France, Australia and Rio de Janeiro are among the new markets on the 2026 schedule.

A grand jury indicted Reiner in July. The judge in the case was deciding whether to make public the transcripts of those secret grand jury proceedings, a move that would likely reveal many key details about the killings. Nick Reiner wants access to trust fund Reiner has asked a different judge to force the release of money from a trust his parents set up for him when he was a child, so that he can rehire Jackson, a high-profile defense attorney whose clients have included Kevin Spacey and Karen Read. The trustees overseeing the funds argue Reiner shouldn’t get them, but his lawyers argue that he is still innocent under the law and that the money would legally be his regardless of his parents’ deaths. Reiner is awaiting a ruling on the money. Hours earlier, Rob Reiner was honored at Emmys Rob Reiner received an emotional tribute at the Emmy Awards on Monday night. He won a posthumous Emmy for best guest actor in a comedy series for his role on “The Bear,” and was honored by his friend and “Bear” co-star Jamie Lee Curtis. “He was generous, kind and funny as hell, and a friend to all,” Curtis said. “And we all miss Rob and Michele and all those we lost this year.”

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famous birthdays this week Angie Dickinson turns 95, Johnny Mathis is 91, Michael Douglas hits 82, Mark Hamill celebrates 75 The Associated Press SEPT. 24 Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Greene is 80. Actor Gordon Clapp is 78. Actor Harriet Walter is 76. Filmmaker Brad Bird is 69. Actor Kevin Sorbo is 68. Actor-screenwriter Nia Vardalos is 64. Celebrity chef Robert Irvine is 61. SEPT. 25

JOEL C RYAN / AP PHOTO

Actor Naomi Watts turns 58 on Monday.

Basketball Hall of Famer Hubie Brown is 93. Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates is 83. Actor-producer Michael Douglas is 82. Model Cheryl Tiegs is 79. Actor Mark Hamill is 75. Basketball Hall of Famer Bob McAdoo is 75. Actor Heather Locklear is 65. Basketball Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen is 61. SEPT. 26 Country singer David Frizzell is 85. Singer Bryan Ferry is 81. Author Jane Smiley is 77. Singer-guitarist Cesar Rosas (Los Lobos) is 72. Actor Linda Hamilton is 70. Actor Jim Caviezel is 58. Tennis player Serena Williams is 45. SEPT. 27

PAUL A. HEBERT / INVISION / AP

Singer Johnny Mathis turns 91 on Wednesday. Young Jeezy is 49. TV personality Bam Margera (“Jackass”) is 47. Actor Hilary Duff is 39.

Singer-guitarist Randy Bachman of Bachman-Turner Overdrive is 83. Actor A Martinez is 78. Actor Liz Torres is 79. Singer-actor-director Shaun Cassidy is 68. Comedian and podcaster Marc Maron is 63. Singer-guitarist Stephan Jenkins of Third Eye Blind is 62. Actor Patrick Muldoon is 58. Actor Gwyneth Paltrow is 54. Rapper Lil’ Wayne is 44. Singer Avril Lavigne is 42.

SEPT. 29

SEPT. 28

SEPT. 30

Actor Vernee Watson (“Bob Hearts Abishola,” “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”) is 77. Actor-comedian Janeane Garofalo is 62. Actor Mira Sorvino is 59. TV personality and singer Moon Zappa is 59. Actor Naomi Watts is 58. Rapper

Actor Angie Dickinson is 95. Singer Johnny Mathis is 91. Actor Barry Williams is 72. Actor Fran Drescher is 69. Actor Eric Stoltz is 65. Actor Monica Bellucci is 62. Actor Marion Cotillard is 51. Actor Kieran Culkin is 43. Rapper T-Pain is 42.

Actor Ian McShane is 84. TV personality Bryant Gumbel is 78. Singer-guitarist Mark Farner of Grand Funk Railroad is 78. Comedian Andrew “Dice” Clay is 69. Actor Jill Whelan is 60. Singer Devante Swing of Jodeci is 57. Actor Zachary Levi is 46. Actor Chrissy Metz is 46. Singer Halsey is 32.

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

the stream

RICHARD SHOTWELL / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Chiwetel Ejiofor, left, and Kane Parsons arrive at the premiere of “Backrooms” on May 7 at Aero Theatre in Santa Monica, California.

‘A Different World,’ ‘Toy Story 5,’ Kenny Chesney Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson star in the comedy “Brothers” The Associated Press THE DISNEY+ debut of “Toy Story 5” and a new album from Kenny Chesney are some of the new television shows, 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: the “A Different World” sequel, “Backrooms” and “Silent Hill: Townfall.” MOVIES TO STREAM It might be great or terrible news for parents, depending on their views about screen time and whether movies are an exception, but “Toy Story 5” has finally made its way to Disney+. Appropriately, the film, co-written and directed by Andrew Stanton, pits toys against tech in the battle for Bonnie’s attention. In his review for The Associated Press, film writer Jake Coyle said, “It may fall shy of the first three and probably ranks as the fifth best of these movies. But ‘Toy Story’ has a high bar and the quality and thoughtfulness that have long distinguished Pixar is very much present here in the film.” Even if you didn’t catch “Backrooms” in theaters this summer, you probably heard something about its box-office success and the then-20-year-old YouTuber-turned-filmmaker Kane Parsons behind it. Coyle, in his review, wrote that “where ‘Backrooms’ came from is more interesting — and potentially meaningful — than the result,” calling it “a fitfully unsettling nightmare that never convincingly builds beyond its creepy, dated-decor premise.” It’ll be on HBO Max starting Friday. Leo Woodall plays a piano tuner who gets caught up in the criminal underworld, using his unique ears to crack safes in “Tuner,” a whip-smart, original thriller from Daniel Roher, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind “Navalny.” I called it one of the best of the year so far, and a spiritual descendant of a “Good Will Hunting.” It is streaming on Paramount+. And finally, Jacob Tremblay plays Ted Kaczynski in “Unabomber,” which debuts Fri-

CJ RIVERA / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Singer Kenny Chesney performs on NBC’s “Today” at Rockefeller Plaza on Sept. 17 in New York. His 21st album, “Silver Sands Marina,” drops Friday.

“‘Backrooms’ is a fitfully unsettling nightmare that never convincingly builds beyond its creepy, dated-decor premise.” Jake Coye, AP Film Writer it is not. “Think I’m ‘bout to lose it, I don’t even care no more,” she sings in the song’s chorus. “I’m ‘bout to lose control.” CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Woody Harrelson, left, and Matthew McConaughey pose together at the premiere of the show “Brothers” last Thursday in Los Angeles. day on Netflix. The stacked cast includes Russell Crowe as a psychologist and Shailene Woodley as the FBI agent on the case. MUSIC TO STREAM He’s one of the most consistent giants in country music for a reason. Chesney will release his 21st studio album — you read that correctly — Friday, titled “Silver Sands Marina.” It’s full-throated stadium country, with big hooks and bigger heart. You know, like all the great Chesney records.

Introducing the new Tinashe, unlike the old Tinashe except for the swagger. Her last album, 2024’s “Quantum Baby,” was defined by its viral hit “Nasty.” But she’s not interested in flash-in-the-pan moments. Her latest, “Popstar,” can be described in one word: unexpected. From the sped-up “Melatonin” to the falsetto and Kesha-esque talk-sung chorus of “Too Easy” there is no pop experiment too off-kilter for Tinashe. And the courage pays off. Just don’t call it a complete 180: “Crash Out” is Tinashe at her R&B-pop best, but a love song

SERIES TO STREAM Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson play exaggerated versions of themselves in “Brothers,” an eight-episode comedy from “The Office” alum Lee Eisenberg. After Harrelson’s daughter’s wedding falls apart, he moves his family to McConaughey’s Austin ranch — only for McConaughey’s mother (played by Holland Taylor) to reveal a secret suggesting the lifelong buddies might be brothers. The series marks a rare return to comedy for Harrelson, whose work on the small screen since “Cheers” ended in 1993 has largely been drama, including “True Detective” and “White House Plumbers.” The first two episodes are now streaming on Apple TV. Nearly 40 years after the

original premiered, Netflix revives the beloved HBCU sitcom “A Different World” on Thursday. Maleah Joi Moon plays Deborah Wayne, the daughter of Whitley (Jasmine Guy) and Dwayne (Kadeem Hardison), who is starting her freshman year at their alma mater, Hillman College. Guy, Hardison, Jada Pinkett Smith and other original cast members return for the first season. In “S.W.A.T.: Exiles,” Shemar Moore returns as Sgt. Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson in a spinoff of the CBS procedural, which ended its eight-season run in 2025. Pulled from forced retirement after a mission goes wrong, Hondo takes charge of an experimental S.W.A.T. unit made up of young recruits. Starz has already renewed it for a second season. It premieres Friday. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY In 2019’s “Control,” a government agent explored the inside of a Manhattan skyscraper that had been warped by paranormal forces. Bad news, New Yorkers: In “Control Resonant,” the hostile entities have left the building and are running rampant across the borough. Good news: The agent now on the case has supernatural powers of his own, including the ability to wield a giant Thor-style hammer that shapeshifts into other weapons. Finland’s Remedy Entertainment is best known for its small-town “Alan Wake” thrillers; we’ll see how well the studio can translate that eeriness to the big city. Start spreading the news Thursday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S or PC. One of the all-time great horror series made a spectacular return in 2025 with “Silent Hill f,” which moved the terror from its American roots to 1960s Japan. One year later, the nightmare is spreading to 1990s Scotland in “Silent Hill: Townfall.” This time, a guy named Simon finds himself in a foggy seaside village with no memory of how he got there — though he knows he has been summoned to “put things right.” As usual, you have just a few simple weapons to defend yourself against the zombies and other monsters roaming the streets. The miasma descends Thursday on PlayStation 5 and PC.

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 31 | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

DUPLINJOURNAL.COM

Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

the

BRIEF this week

James Sprunt Community College president resigns Shannon L. Hair has voluntarily resigned as president of James Sprunt Community College. According to official documents, Hair’s resignation was made pursuant to an agreement with the college. Jeff Taylor will continue serving as acting president during the leadership transition.

Early voting sites announced Duplin County voters can cast ballots early ahead of the Nov. 3 general election. Early voting runs Oct. 15-31 at Ed Emory Auditorium at 165 Agriculture Drive in Kenansville and American Legion Post 156 at 529 E. Southerland St. in Wallace. The voter registration deadline is Oct. 9 at 5 p.m., and the deadline to request an absentee-by-mail ballot is Oct. 20 at 5 p.m. For more information, contact the Duplin County Board of Elections at 910-296-2170.

Heart’s Hope to hold first gala Heart’s Hope Crisis Pregnancy Center will hold its first annual gala Thursday at River Landing, featuring keynote speaker Kellie Brooks, special guest Jay Bucksot and live music from Dear MariBella. Visit the center’s website for more details.

REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Four-legged competitors take over Kenansville This cow has her eye on the action. From the kids in the show ring to the animals at the heart of the competition, young exhibitors brought their best livestock, plenty of personality and a little friendly competition to Kenansville this weekend. Check out the highlights from three days of showing, ribbons and four-legged stars on Page 5A.

Warsaw secures option on 27-acre parcel for wastewater amid valuation debate The $750,000 purchase would be funded by a state grant, but the town must verify the property’s value and suitability

ture bottlenecks that currently limit municipal growth. During the Sept. 14 meeting, Commissioner Tommy Jones emphasized that Warsaw currently lacks the wastewater treatment capacity required to accommodate new residential developments, commercial projects, or industrial expansion. “This is a must for us here in

Warsaw. That’s why we fought so hard to get this 27 acres of land,” said Jones. According to Commissioner Jack Hawes, the property, owned by [Leonard F.] Sutton, was originally priced at more than $1 million before negotiations led by former town manager,

Bed bugs infestation temporarily displaces Beulaville EMS crew

contamination by professional exterminators, crews returned to the station ahead of a second scheduled treatment on Sept. 11. Barwick said an EMS shift supervisor reported additional pests inside the facility around midnight Sept. 18. The crew again completed decontamination protocols and temporarily relocated as a precaution. “In the interim, the Beulaville EMS crew is being staged in their primary response district during the day and relocated to a nearby station during the overnight hours to ensure

By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal WARSAW — The Warsaw Board of Commissioners has voted to enter into an option con-

tract to acquire a 27-acre tract of land adjacent to the town’s existing wastewater treatment facility. The decision marks a major preliminary step toward addressing critical infrastruc-

See WARSAW, page A3

Movie Night returns Movie Night at the park will return to Teachey on Oct. 10. Activities including fall crafts, face painting, games, a bouncy house and unlimited popcorn will begin at 5 p.m. The movie is scheduled to begin about 7:30 p.m. Residents can choose between “Zootopia 2” and “Toy Story 5” for the featured film. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

Duplin County candidates forum set for Oct. 13 A nonpartisan candidates forum will be held 6-9 p.m. on Oct. 13 at James Sprunt Community College’s Monk Auditorium. Hosted by Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, the forum will give residents an opportunity to hear from candidates seeking local, state and federal offices and learn about their positions on issues affecting the community. The event is open to the public. Organizers said participating organizations do not endorse political parties or individual candidates.

County officials say the station remains under monitoring as the crew transitions back to full-time occupancy By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal BEULAVILLE — A bed bug infestation at the Beulaville EMS station has temporari-

Historic Magnolia library gets new life as community center The project gives the nearly 200-year-old building a new purpose while preserving a piece of the town’s history By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

$2.00

ly displaced emergency crews from their overnight quarters, prompting questions from residents about response times and accommodations for EMS personnel.

According to Public Safety Director Matthew Barwick, the infestation first came to light around midnight Sept. 4. “The EMS crew was sent home on paid administrative leave as a precaution to protect their safety and help prevent any potential spread,” Barwick told Duplin Journal Monday, adding that following an initial de-

MAGNOLIA — The town of Magnolia celebrated the opening of the newly renovated Magnolia Community Center Sept. 17, marking a new chapter for the historic Florence Gallier Library building at 104 W. Main St. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Mayor Dawn Ward spoke about preserving the building’s history while giving it a new purpose.

“This is actually a piece of Magnolia’s history and we wanted to preserve that for the town,” said Ward during the ceremony. “We build on history and the people who came before us and we are so excited to be able to preserve this piece of our history and repurpose it.” The nearly 200-year-old building was originally established as a library by the Women’s Civic Club and named in honor of Florence Gallier, a historical civic figure known for her instrumental role in establishing the town’s library. To ensure this history remains part of the community’s fabric, Gallier’s photograph and the original front sign from the library are preserved and displayed See LIBRARY, page A2

“She has spent countless hours up here doing lots of manual labor not only inside the building and out but also in this garden.” Dawn Ward

See BED BUGS, page A3

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

THURSDAY

9.24.26 #144

Warsaw updates UDO to address state downzoning law The final ordinance restores development rights and adds protections for existing nonresidential properties

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By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal WARSAW — Last week, the Warsaw Board of Commissioners adopted the town’s new Unified Development Ordinance after revising several provisions to address potential conflicts with North Carolina restrictions on local downzoning. Planning consultants from Insight Consulting Group and municipal land-use attorney Cy Lee reviewed the draft ordinance against existing town regulations and current state law before its final adoption. The review identified provisions that could have reduced development rights or removed land uses that were previously allowed under the town’s existing regulations. “One of the biggest issues that I found … was that we needed to do something to make sure that level that impacts local municipalities’ and counties’ ability to regulate lo-

“We needed to do something to make sure that level that impacts local municipalities and counties ability to regulate local development regulations without property owners consent.” Ashley Barefoot, planning and land use director cal development regulations without property owners consent,” said Ashley Barefoot, planning and land use director. Among the changes were revisions to residential density standards. The R-6 district was changed from a proposed maximum of 12 units per acre to 13 units per acre, while the R-10 district was adjusted from 4 units per acre to 4.4 units per acre. The town also restored several uses that had been omitted from earlier versions of the UDO, including churches, schools and hospitals in residential districts. Boarding and guest houses were re-

stored in R-6, along with certain golf courses, country clubs and private clubs in districts where they had previously been allowed. Several uses also were restored in the Industrial district, including auto repair, building material storage/ sales, greenhouses, printing/ publishing and industrial research laboratories. The board also added a section to prevent stricter new setback, buffering, landscaping and parking standards from turning existing commercial or industrial properties into illegal nonconforming structures. According to town documents the provision treats legally established nonresidential sites and structures as conforming rather than nonconforming. The UDO also removed a proposed 12-month waiting period for applicants seeking to refile denied rezoning applications after consultants determined the restriction was not permitted under current state law. The board adopted the UDO following a public hearing and a recommendation from the Warsaw Planning Board. “This board gets to sit in the capacity that all of you were elected by your constituents, which is to exercise your reasonable business judgment relative to the project that’s been proposed,” said Cy Lee, land-use attorney. Consultants told the board that state land-use laws continue to change and recommended that Warsaw regularly review its development regulations to maintain compliance with future legislation.

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Office Phone: 910 463-1240 To place a legal ad: 919 663-3232; Fax: 919 663-4042

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inside the renovated facility. “The total cost of the renovation was $27,059.98,” Ward told Duplin Journal. This included $11,156.16 from hurricane insurance proceeds to replace the damaged roof, $903.02 for tables and chairs from the Community Engagement Committee budget, and interest from the NC Community Management Trust account. Improvements included new flooring, a renovated restroom, a wall-mounted television that had previously been in town hall, freshly painted repurposed paneling, a wheelchair ramp, an updated sign and a functioning kitchen. “The front door was painted a beautiful yellow that some residents are calling ‘a ray of sunshine,’” said Ward. Local businesses and donors also contributed materials and labor to the restoration, along with support from anonymous donors. The project relied heavily on local leadership and volunteer work. According to Ward, a key driving force behind the project was Mayor Pro Tem Jeanine Cavenaugh, whose initiative and personal labor spearheaded the restoration. “This would not have happened without her vision first. This does not happen in a vacuum and it first requires somebody not only having a vision, but being willing to step up and step in,” said Ward. “She has spent countless hours up here doing lots of manual labor not only inside the build-

happening SPONSORED BY

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

Sept. 26 Camo for a Cause 8 a.m. to midnight Camo for a Cause will host its annual fundraiser featuring a live auction, live music and family activities, with proceeds supporting North Carolina families affected by childhood cancer at Tara Creek. 136 Robert Hobbs Road, Faison

Mike’s Farm Antique Tractor Show 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Kick off the fall season with an antique tractor, equipment and car show, a tractor parade, door prizes and tractor games. Pumpkin patch hayrides are open for the season, with magic shows and live music.

Loretta Carey

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1600 Haw Branch Road, Beulaville

Sept. 29 Tuesday Night Twilight Concert Series 6 to 8 p.m.

COURTESY JESSICA MELTON

Local and state officials cut the ribbon during a Sept. 17 opening of the newly renovated Magnolia Community Center. Left to right, Commissioners Perry Raines, Eric Graham, Elvenia Wilson, state Rep. Jimmy Dixon, Mayor Dawn Ward, Mayor Pro Tem Jeanine Cavenaugh and Commissioner Janice Wilson. ing and out but also in this garden.” With the renovation complete, the building will serve as a venue for town events and a rental space for small gatherings. The town’s first annual movie night at the park is scheduled for Oct. 3, followed by the community center’s first event Oct. 8. Ward said the town also

hopes to establish YMCA programming through the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina, potentially as soon as next summer if fundraising efforts are successful. “This would introduce afterschool care, programming for seniors and other activities for which the Magnolia Community Center would be used,” said Ward.

The Wallace Chamber series continues with a performance by Time Machine Band, featuring music from the 1960s through the 2000s. The free community event also includes food trucks, local vendors and family-friendly activities. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy an evening of live music and local shopping. 683 E. Southerland St., Wallace

Movie Night 6 p.m. Magnolia will host a free showing of “Casper” at the West 17 Ballfield. The movie will include Spanish subtitles. Free popcorn, hot dogs and water will be available while supplies last. West 17 Ballfield, Magnolia

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Magnolia moves on $950K housing grant, $25K business program Commissioners also approved new municipal fees and received updates on police, infrastructure and community projects By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal MAGNOLIA — The Magnolia Board of Commissioners approved changes to town fees, advanced a $950,000 housing grant application and received updates on infrastructure, police activity and community programs during its regular monthly meeting. The board also proclaimed Sept. 15 through Oct. 15, 2026, as National Hispanic Heritage Month in Magnolia. “Hispanics comprise an estimated 22% of the population of the town of Magnolia and play a vital role in our local economy, workforce as well as in our schools and education system,” said Mayor Dawn Ward as she read the proclamation. The national theme for the observance is “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together.” Town Manager Charles Banks presented plans for a Community Development Block Grant-Neighborhood Revitalization application, which has an Oct. 13 submission deadline. The town is seeking up to $950,000 for housing rehabilitation and demolition and rebuilding of owner-occupied residential homes. The town plans to submit applications for four primary homes and two or three alternate homes. Banks explained that three potential homes have already received preliminary assessments. Under the program’s 70% threshold, homes requiring repairs exceeding 70% of their estimated value must be demolished and replaced with new construction. Applicants must be low- to moderate-income owner-occupants. Banks cited income limits of approximately $47,000 to $48,000 for single-person households in Duplin County. Mobile homes can qualify if they are secured to permanent brick foundations. Recipi-

“Hispanics comprise an estimated 22% of the population of the town of Magnolia and play a vital role in our local economy, workforce as well as in our schools and education system.” Mayor Dawn Ward ents must remain in the homes as their primary residence for six to seven years after rehabilitation. The town is expanding eligibility into its extraterritorial jurisdiction, extending one mile outside town limits. A second public hearing and application workshop is scheduled for Sept. 29. “Anyone who feels that they are eligible and would like to apply, please provide the information to the town. They can call in or come to the front desk. We have a book that we’re taking names, numbers, addresses,” said Banks. Commissioners also unanimously approved changes to the town’s fee schedule. Rental of the town’s motor grader will cost $150 per hour, with a three-hour minimum, for outside contracted work. The town recently acquired a midsize motor grader to maintain Magnolia’s dirt and gravel roads. Because neighboring municipalities and local DOT hubs lack immediate access to small-scale graders, Magnolia established a commercial rental rate for third-party contracted work to generate municipal revenue. Banks said the grader will help address maintenance needs on dirt and gravel roads, which account for 35% to 40% of town streets. Water and sewer tap fees will change from a flat $1,250 charge to cost plus 10%. Banks clarified that flat utility fees previously forced the town to absorb operating losses when hiring external contractors. The board also approved a $25,000 budget amendment tied to a Duke Energy Foundation Business Grant. The

funds will provide financial assistance to registered businesses within town limits for improvements including facades, paint, signage, commercial equipment, point-of-sale systems and employee training. The application deadline is Oct. 19 and award announcements are scheduled for Dec. 1. Police Chief Jerry Wood reported 650 dispatched and self-initiated activities in August, including 148 business checks, 104 senior citizen checks, 105 speed enforcement actions and 28 code enforcement inspections. Wood also updated commissioners on a fatal shooting that killed 16-year-old Alexis Gonzalez. According to the chief, a joint investigation involving the Magnolia Police Department, the State Bureau of Investigation and the Hoke County Sheriff’s Office led to the arrest of Gerardo Emanuel Ober, also known as “Chino.” Wood said he was located using drone technology and taken into custody in less than a day after the shooting. He is being held in county jail without bond. Wood also addressed questions about the department’s Flock license plate readers, saying the cameras scan vehicle license plates against automated law enforcement hotlists rather than actively monitoring individuals. Elsewhere, Banks reported $564,692.80 in the town’s asset management investment portfolio and $77,859.10 in general operating capital. Construction continues on the Highway 903 water project and municipal park upgrades, while negotiations for property needed for the Newberry Street lift station are nearing completion. The town also announced completion of its new Community Center. Upcoming events include a free “Casper” movie night Oct. 3, a craft class Oct. 8, Trunk-or-Treat on Oct. 31 and the third annual Christmas Tree Lighting on Dec. 4. The meeting concluded with recognition of local youth and academic and athletic achievements before commissioners entered closed session to discuss legal matters.

WARSAW from page A1 state Rep. Jimmy Dixon and Commissioner Jones brought the agreed purchase price down to $750,000. “When we first began discussing this property, there was a contract price well over a million and Mr. Dixon along with Commissioner Jones negotiated down,” said Hawes. The proposed acquisition will be funded entirely through a $750,000 state grant allocated by the North Carolina General Assembly and managed by the Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM). Jones highlighted that because the purchase is fully covered by state grant funds, it will require no local tax increase for Warsaw residents. Interim Town Attorney J. Phillips clarified that the board’s vote does not execute an immediate purchase or bind municipal funds. Instead, the option contract legally binds the landowner to hold the property at the $750,000 purchase price through Feb. 1. This grants the town exclusive rights to evaluate the site while retaining full discretion to walk away without financial penalty if the property fails to meet requirements. The proposal sparked discussion among commissioners regarding property valuation and grant compliance. Commissioner Ebony Wills Wells raised concerns pointing out that according to county GIS records, the property has an assessed land value of $65,600 and a total market valuation of $492,600. “Paying $750,000 for land that’s appraised at $492,600 creates a $257,400 premium, which is 52% above the market value rate of it. And according to the general statute ... state grants require purchases at or below fair market value,” said Wells. She warned that paying above fair market value could risk grant clawbacks or violating state statutory guidelines.

“This person always wanted over a million dollars for this land. This last time we talked to him, he came down to what we thought was reasonable,” said Jones. “And we went and got the money where it ain’t going to cost a person in Warsaw a penny. We got this money out of a grant that we already got.” Phillips said that tax assessments on county GIS websites do not constitute formal property appraisals. Legal counsel noted that specialized municipal utility land often carries a higher market value than general agricultural property, and an official appraisal has not yet been conducted. He explained that entering into the option contract binds the seller to the price while allowing the town the necessary window to conduct a formal appraisal, survey, and engineering evaluation to satisfy all state grant requirements before any final purchase takes place. To resolve valuation questions and verify technical feasibility before the Feb. 1 deadline, the town must complete a detailed boundary survey of the 27-acre parcel, conduct a formal appraisal to establish the property’s official fair market value for grant compliance and work with engineering consultants McDavid & Associates to conduct site testing and confirm the land’s physical suitability for treatment plant expansion. Following the debate, the Board of Commissioners voted to approve entering into the option agreement, authorizing legal counsel and staff to proceed with the formal studies.

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$1.29/LB they have appropriate quarters for rest between emergency calls,” Barwick said. He added that pest control technicians reinspected the Beulaville station Sept. 21, found signs indicating successful eradication and observed no new cause for concern. At press time, Barwick said county administration expected the crew to return to full-time occupancy at the Beulaville quarters Sept. 22. “The temporary relocation has allowed us to maintain a response presence in the Beulaville area while providing crews with appropriate facilities during the overnight hours,” Barwick said. “Throughout this process, maintaining EMS coverage in the district while protecting our employees and preventing any potential spread has remained our primary concern.” The temporary relocation has also drawn concerns from local resident Tiffany Ferrell, who works in patient access services at ECU Health Duplin Hospital. Ferrell argued in a public statement that moving crews to alternative locations, including Medic 8 in Kenansville or Medic 3 in Chinquapin, has affected emergency coverage in Beulaville. Ferrell alleged that the relocation increased response times in Beulaville. County administration has not corroborated that figure in its public communications. “By removing the emergency truck from its home station, county leaders have effectively caused emergency response

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An EMT displays bed bug bites on their arm following an infestation at the Beulaville EMS station. times in Beulaville to skyrocket to a staggering 20 to 25 minutes,” Ferrell said in a social media statement. “In a medical emergency, every single second counts, and forcing families to wait nearly half an hour for an ambulance is a dangerous gamble with human lives.” The infestation also has renewed scrutiny over Duplin County’s fiscal allocations. Pointing to public financial records, Ferrell criticized the county’s multimillion-dollar general fund balance while emergency infrastructure faces pest issues. “A tiny fraction of that massive fund balance could instantly pay for commercial fumigation and heat treatments, permanently replace all contaminated furniture, guarantee pest-free living quarters,” wrote Ferrell. “Our paramedics and EMTs protect us at our absolute worst, and the bare minimum we owe them is pest free facilities.” County emergency management said that the Beulaville

“The temporary relocation has allowed us to maintain a response presence in the Beulaville area while providing crews with appropriate facilities during the overnight hours.” Matthew Barwick station will remain under active monitoring to prevent further occurrences as crews transition back to full-time occupancy. “We appreciate the patience and understanding of our employees and the community as we work through this situation,” said Barwick. “We will continue to monitor the station and take appropriate action if any additional concerns are identified.”

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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

VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | SUSAN MILLS

Get to know the real Michael Whatley Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics.

I HAVE KEPT SILENT hoping people will educate themselves before voting, but I still see fellow Republicans trying to tear down a good person. I was elected NCGOP vice chair to serve with Michael Whatley. I worked with him closely for over three years. He is a man of faith, family and freedom. He loves his beautiful family and would never put his children in harm’s way by “hiring” a person that preys on children. He did not hire Harvey West. Harvey was elected by his constituents in the 1st District. Harvey was already a member of the Plan of Organization Committee when Whatley became chair of the NCGOP. Many people are kept on committees to allow their knowledge of how the committee works to be passed down to new members. There was nothing strange about keeping Harvey on that committee. Look at organizations in your community, state and country. Do you throw out all their institutional knowledge to bring on someone that is new and has no idea of where to begin?

Whatley is a man of faith. We started each meeting, event, dinner with a prayer. He is a God-fearing person. He always wanted to do what was right, and he did. No one is perfect, so stop looking for perfection in anyone! Whatley loves the people of North Carolina and of this great country. I have seen it firsthand. He doesn’t put himself first. It’s the folks of N.C. who he put first and always will. He is a man of his word and not a person that lies. We need Whatley in the U.S. Senate. Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics — the Democratic candidate did that! As a person that has worked closely with him and considers him a close friend, I ask you to vote for Michael Whatley for U.S. Senate! Susan Mills is a public high school teacher who lives in Fayetteville.

COLUMN | DANIEL MCCARTHY

The immigration politics of a felon’s pardon “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that.

HOW FAR will New York Gov. Kathy Hochul go to keep immigrant criminals in this country? So far, she’ll even pardon a man convicted of an aggravated felony if that’s what it takes to prevent the United States Supreme Court from setting a restrictionist precedent. Keisy Guerrero Mariano is a Dominican who spent two years in prison for committing a violent crime: second-degree assault. Mariano, known as “G.M.” in court documents, is exactly the sort of lawbreaker Americans overwhelmingly want to see deported. But not Hochul — she granted him clemency Aug. 28. His case stood out from those of the other five people she pardoned that day: The others were nonviolent offenders who’d committed their crimes decades ago: two in the 1980s, two in the ’90s, and just one as recently as 2007. G.M. was convicted in 2015. The governor decided he merited special leniency, for political reasons. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested G.M. in 2020, intending to deport him based on his criminal record. ICE had to let him go in 2022, however, because of a nationwide injunction related to COVID-19 that required the agency to review custody of individuals with certain medical conditions. While ICE had him, though, G.M.’s lawyers challenged the agency’s right to hold him for a prolonged time without a bond hearing. That’s what Hochul’s pardon is really about — the Trump administration planned to make the Dominican’s appeals a test case before the U.S. Supreme Court, one likely to establish that G.M. and others like him are not entitled to a bond hearing. Bond hearings are an easily exploited weakness in America’s immigration security, not only protracting the legal process of deporting lawbreakers but also giving them an opportunity to get out of detention temporarily — and then permanently fail to show up when they’re due for their next hearing. G.M. came to this country legally in 2011, but he forfeited any right to remain here once he committed a felony. Only now Hochul has nullified his conviction to undercut

ICE’s grounds for removing him and collapse the appeals process that was leading to the Supreme Court — and to a probable defeat for those who want to make deportation as difficult as possible. The governor isn’t looking out for New Yorkers here: Her maneuver is about liberal politicians’ zeal for maximum immigration, even when it means letting violent criminals remain in our communities. This is the second lucky break Hochul’s side has had recently. The other test case the Trump administration had teed up, involving a Jamaican national convicted (also in New York) of sexually abusing a child under the age of 11, has been taken out of the courts as well after the offender left the country and filed a court declaration saying he would not be coming back to America. Self-deportation is one way to get immigrants convicted of heinous crimes out of here. But ICE can’t deport someone who has already deported himself, so his claim of a right to a bond hearing is now completely moot. The big question still has to be answered, though: Can immigration enforcement detain these violent perps and sex offenders until they can be tossed out? Or if they’ve been in custody for a while, are they entitled to bond hearings that will further delay their removal — and give them the chance to escape back into Americans’ neighborhoods? Solicitor General John Sauer says he’s not going to let Hochul’s gambit succeed. G.M.’s case may have been pulled, but Sauer aims to find another that will bring the fight to the Supreme Court. “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that — even a legal immigrant who commits a serious offense ought to be expelled promptly, and he shouldn’t get the benefit of a bond hearing just because his case takes longer than it should and he winds up in “prolonged” detention. He shouldn’t get the benefit of a liberal governor’s partisan machinations either. New Yorkers — American citizens — elected Hochul, and she should put them first, not foreigners who commit crimes while they’re here, legally or otherwise. Daniel McCarthy is the editor of Modern Age: A Conservative Review. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Young exhibitors bring livestock show to Kenansville Competitors from across North Carolina gathered for three days of shows By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — The Duplin Livestock Facility hosted a three-day livestock show last weekend. Kids of all ages from across the state traveled to Kenansville to compete in goat, lamb, cattle and pig shows. The show was part of the Eastern Showmanship Circuit. “These kids are showing every weekend and earning points in showmanship,” said Duplin County Cooperative Extension Show Coordinator Charmae Kendall. “At the end of the season, there will be overall winners given belt buckles at an awards ceremony we will have for them in November.” Although the power went out throughout Kenansville on Friday night, the show went on with 50 goats and 40 exhibi-

“Since I started showing, this community has really helped me and built me up.” Nathan Medlin tors that night. On Saturday, there were 50 exhibitors showing 70 lambs, 30 heifers and four steers. On Sunday, 25 exhibitors showed 30 hogs. “It takes a lot of money to do these shows,” Kendall said, pointing out how many of the judges had to be flown in from out of state. “The exhibitors pay $25, but that doesn’t cover the cost. We couldn’t do this without sponsorship money.” While the animals can be judged in different classes, showmanship competitions are about how well the exhibitors know their animals. Exhibitors choose to participate in

the shows for various reasons. “I do my best to get first; I compete to get better and better and win lots of prizes like ribbons and buckles,” Carson Harris — who placed Grand White Face with her lamb, Bay Max — told Duplin Journal. For Nathan Medlin, showing is more about the relationships he forms at the shows. “I didn’t grow up in an agriculture background; my family moved here from the city,” Medlin said. “I started showing when my friend invited me to a show one day. … Since I started showing, this community has really helped me and built me up. The prizes are good and everything, but at the end of the day, it’s about the friends you have on the other line.” Medlin, a recent graduate of Southern Nash, won Senior Showmanship and Reserve Market Lamb and Supreme Market Lamb with his lamb, MJ. Detty Moore won Grand Champion in Showmanship

PHOTOS BY REBECCA WHITMAN COOKE FOR DUPLIN JOURNAL

Nathan Medlin competes with his lamb, MJ, during the livestock show at the Duplin Livestock Facility in Kenansville. with her lamb, Rip. Moore shows every weekend and has been showing for nine years. “I think it’s fun and it teaches me good sportsmanship and how to communicate with people,” Moore said. Showing is a family tradition for Moore. Her mother used to show as well. They spend a couple of hours a day working with the animals and training them. For Abigail Waters, a fourth grader from Princeton, showing is something her family enjoys

traveling to do every weekend. “I just like to get out there, have fun, and work with the animals,” Waters said. Waters won Grand Goat Showmanship with her goat, Mary Ann, on Friday. Kendall encouraged anyone interested in learning more about how to get involved with livestock showing to reach out to their local Cooperative Extension Office. Kendall can be reached via email or phone at 910-271-0897.

Top, Detty Moore poses with her winning lamb, Rip, a judge and one of her friends. Bottom left, a youth exhibitor demonstrates his knowledge of his heifer while walking the animal around a corralled area. Bottom right, a young exhibitor inspects his lamb outside the arena before the show.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Wallace Lodge dedicates cornerstone while honoring historic past, future The ceremony recognized generations of lodge members

Duplin Journal staff WALLACE — A cornerstone dedication ceremony brought members of Wallace Lodge No. 279 A.F. & A.M., visiting Masons and community guests together Sept. 12 at the lodge building on W. Lanier Street.

The ceremony included Grand Master Steve Norris and members of the Grand Lodge of North Carolina’s Grand Line. Norris presided over the dedication. The event also included Boy Scout Troop 35, whose members presented the Colors and led the Pledge of Allegiance. “These young men are the cornerstone to our future and the future of this community,” Norris said. Mike Murphy, master of

Wallace Lodge, said the presence of the Grand Lodge officers was meaningful to local members. “We are grateful to Grand Master Steve Norris and the rest of the Grand Line officers for accepting our invitation and joining us for this special occasion,” said Murphy. “It was a tremendous honor to have them here. Their presence reflects the spirit of brotherhood that connects Masons across North Carolina and reminds us that our

work is ultimately about serving others.” The dedication commemorated the history of Wallace Lodge and the generations of members who have contributed to its work. That work has included charitable efforts, assistance to people in need and participation in local activities. Murphy said the ceremony also represented values including service, integrity, fellowship and helping one’s neighbors.

“These young men are the cornerstone to our future and the future of this community.” Grand Master Steve Norris “Those are values that unite us all,” Murphy said. Lodge members and volunteers helped prepare for the ceremony by readying the grounds, organizing the event, providing refreshments, welcoming guests and documenting the occasion. The newly dedicated cornerstone will serve as a permanent marker of Wallace Lodge No. 279’s history and tradition.

PHOTOS COURTESY WALLACE LODGE NO. 279

Left, Grand Master Steve Norris speaks during Wallace Lodge No. 279 A.F. & A.M.’s cornerstone dedication ceremony on Sept. 12. Right, members of Boy Scout Troop 35 participate in the dedication.

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Investment of $200M turns swine waste into renewable energy The new facility brings agriculture, technology and private investment to Sampson County Duplin Journal staff TURKEY — A $200 million investment is bringing renewable energy technology to Sampson County, with Montauk Ag Renewables converting swine waste into renewable energy. Last week, the company celebrated the opening of its new facility in Turkey, marking a project Sampson County Economic Development officials say represents innovation, growth and new opportunity for the community. At the facility, swine waste is converted into renewable energy, creating an opportunity to turn an agricultural byproduct into electricity while adding another compo-

nent to the local economy. The ribbon-cutting event included remarks from Randy Barefoot, director of community and farm relations; Montauk President Sean McClain and Sen. Brent Jackson, who shared perspectives on the investment and its implications for agriculture, energy and rural North Carolina. Sampson County Economic Development officials said the project represents more than its $200 million price tag. It illustrates how investments tied to the region’s agricultural economy can also bring renewable energy technology and economic development opportunities to the community. The investment also underscores the role agriculture can play in creating opportunities beyond traditional production, with swine waste becoming the raw material for renewable energy.

COURTESY SAMPSON COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Montauk Ag Renewables recently celebrated the opening of its new facility in Turkey, marking a $200 million investment in renewable energy and agricultural innovation.

DUPLIN SPORTS Quick-striking Cardinals hand Rebels’ miscues Panthers first loss of season swing open door FOOTBALL ROUNDUP

“This is humbling, for sure. Now we get to see how we react.” Seth Sandlin, East Duplin defensive coordinator

Early turnovers and big plays early sink East Duplin in a loss to 6A Jacksonville By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal

JACKSONVILLE — Two defensive scores, a long touchdown pass, a long running score and a 19-yard sprint to the pylon were more than enough to take away any chance that East Duplin could beat Jacksonville last Friday. And it all happened before halftime during the Cardinals’ 42-7 win at Durham-Simpson Field. The lightning-quick scores

led to a 35-0 lead and a continuously running game-clock in the second half. “We got a little lucky early by their misread on defense, and as things do, it kind of snowballed on them,” said Jacksonville head coach Beau Williams, who has a 130-69 career record and took the ’25 team to the 6A region finals last season and to the runner-up spot in 2A in 2018. “We had some big plays on a technically sound team. We’re bigger on the D-line, and that made a difference. But they have three good running backs, and they are a good football team. Battle (Holley) and his kid don’t quit. It was good to get them early.

We’ve had some tough ones.” 6A Jacksonville holds a 5-1 series lead over 4A ED, although all the games were close, including the Panthers’ 27-26 triumph in ’17 when Holley guided them to the 2A final. The son of the second-winningest coach in state history led ED to its lone state title in ’22. It was the first loss in five games for the Panthers. “We made some mistakes, and they have great team speed,” said Panthers defensive coordinator Seth Sandlin. “We don’t have the kind of speed to mimic them in practice. This is humbling, for sure. Now we get to see how we react. See CARDINALS, page B2

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Semaj Scott, left, Keeshon Mckinnie and East Duplin’s defense chased Jacksonville runners all night during a 42-7 loss.

for Leopards in 28-14 win

Running back Calvin Lacewell and Lakewood rallied for the win By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal CALYPSO — The game was playing out to perfection at halftime as North Duplin used two long drives to go in front by eight points. It all came crashing down in the third quarter as Lakewood rallied for 22 unanswered points for a 28-14 win Monday in a key Carolina Conference affair at H.E. Grubbs Field. ND (3-1, 0-1) fumbled the ball away to the Leopards on the second snap of the third quarter to begin a series of mistakes that played into Lakewood’s hands. Calvin Lacewell, who ran for 115 of his 172 yards in the second half, trimmed the margin to 14-12 six plays later. ND’s offense sputtered and Lakewood got to the Rebels 2 because of an unsportsmanlike flag, Lacewell and quarterback Burroughs Strickland’s two passes and his 2-point conversion. Up 20-14, the Rebels turned the ball over on downs at their own 35. Lacewell’s first carry covered 26 yards and his second the nine yards he needed to score. He added the conversion to up the lead to two scores. ND fumbled again and was unable to move the ball forward. Jayden Pope (15-97) scored from the 10 as time expired in the first quarter as ND went in front 7-0. Pope converted on fourth-and-4 at the 20 during the quarter-consuming drive. Lakewood got to within 7-6 with a march that featured Lacewell and a chain-moving pass connection to Trevon Tillery, a 25-yard gain on third-and-15 from near midfield. Lacewell pushed the markers two other times on third down. ND’s final march of the first half was classic Rebels football. Grady had a 13-yard run, Pope pushed for 17 and 26 yards, setting up a secondand-goal from the 8 with 13.2 seconds on the clock. Quarterback Henry Pope found Grady in the back of the end zone to score with 2.2 seconds left. See REBELS, page B4

JAMES KENAN HALL OF FAME

Player was key hoopster for Tigers’ 3 state Final Four trips The Department of Social Services superintendent will enter the JK HOF with Stedman Mathis and Jeffrey Wallace By Bill Rollins For Duplin Journal

COURTESY

Stephanie Player

WARSAW — Stephanie Player vividly remembers her first big freshman moment as James Kenan’s four-year low-post player. It was in a game at Kenan Auditorium in December 1998. “I didn’t start initially that

year,” she said, “but (someone) got hurt and Coach (Sherman) Futch put me in. “Toward the end of the game we made a comeback, and I went up and made a shot and got fouled. “Then I made the free throw — to win the game! “I said, ‘Oh my gosh, did I do that?’” Oh yes, she did that, and she was a starter from then on, creating many more oh-my-gosh moments — even on a team that included fellow JK Hall of Famers Shalyce Smith at a wing and Player’s classmate

Anita Rogers at point guard. That moment kicked off a career for Player that included career averages in double-figure scoring and rebounding, all-conference honors and three trips to the East Regional Final Four in Greenville, as the Tigers finished as runner-up her final two seasons. JK Hall of Fame inductions Oct. 10 Player will be inducted into the James Kenan Sports Hall of Fame on Saturday, Oct. 10 at 6 p.m. in the school’s John P.

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Harmon Gym. There will be a meet-and-greet at 5 p.m. in the school’s front lobby. The other inductees that day will be former Tigers football stars Stedman Mathis (2004-07 seasons) and Jeffrey Wallace (1991-94). Their stories will appear in the next two issues of Duplin Journal. Impressive “ups” Longtime James teacher and coach See HOF, page B3

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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VOLLEYBALL ROUNDUP

Tigers break jinx against Rebels, continue struggle vs. ’Dawgs JK nabbed a rare win against ND but couldn’t end its 28-match losing streak to WRH

:DOODFH 1 &

Devis Gomez

By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal TEACHEY — Last week was all about upsets, near upsets and long-running feuds between volleyball teams in Duplin County. Here’s a quick soundbite. James Kenan snapped a long losing streak against 2A North Duplin. Wallace-Rose Hill clipped the Tigers in five sets after falling behind 2-0. East Duplin dropped a key ECC road match against Clinton. This leaves late-season rematches for JK-WRH and ED-Clinton. Nothing is final in the conference standings, and RPI marks to determine seeds for the state tournament is still an ongoing process. Yet the first half of the volleyball regular season has clearly ended. Tigers drop Rebels to end four-game skid

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

James Kenan, soccer Opponents are beginning to keep a close eye on Devis Gomez. The James Kenan junior midfielder leads the Duplin Journal area in goals, with 13, and has three assists. He drilled home two scores last week during a win over South Brunswick and then one during a 3-1 triumph over Midway. JK is 9-1 and would be the No. 1 seed in 3A and the lone school with one loss and no ties. Devis is one of five Tigers with extensive experience on the pitch, yet his production cannot be underestimated.

CARDINALS from page B1 “Our kids may have read the rat poisoning about how good we are, and our staff been shown a lot of weaknesses to fix. We still have five (games) left and time to get it done.” Whole lot of points really fast Josiah Benton rumbled 60 yards on the first snap, and six plays later, Domonic Williams intercepted a Brayden Jones pass and took it to the house from 45 yards away. ED fumbled on its next two possessions. Early in the second quarter, SaRonn Thompson turned Benton’s pass into a 64-yard score. Williams followed with a 70-yard punt return, and Amari Peterson added a 19-yard push to the end zone to make it 35-0. ED took up the bulk of the third quarter with a 13-play, 72-yard march that ended with an eight-yard run by Keeshon Mckinnie (12-52). Montez Jimenez followed with a 59-yard score on the first play of the fourth quarter. Jacksonville held the Panthers to 160 yards on the ground and a 2.9-yard average in 55 attempts.

JK has experienced too many “close-but-not-close-enough” matches against three Duplin teams yet finally broke through with a 3-1 (25-16, 25-17, 16-26, 26-24) thriller over the Rebels to improve to 7-22 against ND since 2009. The triumph was short-lived as WRH conquered the Tigers in five sets after JK led 2-1 in Teachey. WRH took early control with a 25-17 statement, but JK rallied for 25-19 and 25-16 wins. The home team took sets at 25-21 and 15-11 for its 28th consecutive win over its rival. WRH leads the series 31-6. JK’s last win came in 2011. Gabby Debnam (15 kills, 12 blocks) and McKeithan Cross (18 kills) provided the muscle for the Bulldogs (7-8, 2-3), while Sally Martinez, Ella Turner and Hannah Baker combined for 43 digs. “It was a tit-for-tat match,” said WRH head coach Kevin Williams. “We fell apart in the second set before we made it competitive with some good rallies. “James Kenan kept coming at us, and their outside hitter (Y’Anna Rivers) was really aggressive and put a lot of points on us. In the last three sets, we kind of played spunky like Ella does.” JK (4-8-3-4) faces two sub-.500 3A schools this week

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

JK’s Y’anna Rivers, right, caused problems for WRH. in Pender (6-8) and Rosewood (5-7). The Eagles have been in a tailspin since their coach left earlier this season. The Pats whipped JK 3-0 on Aug. 13 in Warsaw. JK’s next five matches are against Midway (12-1, 7-0), Goldsboro (11-4, 6-1), Clinton (11-2) and Princeton (5-7, 3-4). The Tigers host WRH on Oct. 10 in the regular season finale for both schools. The Bulldogs, who are in a rebuilding mode this season after losing three all-state players, had an easy win later in the week, topping Union in three sets (25-7, 25-17, 25-19). Rebels bounce back to dispose of Leopards, Gators Maggie Brown dumped in 10 kills, and Yesenia Gomez and Gracie Higginbotham each had six during a 3-0 (25-23, 25-11, 25-19) win over East Columbus (7-4, 4-3). That and a 3-1 (25-21, 9-25, 25-21, 25-14) triumph over Lakewood (3-4, 5-9) kept ND (9-4, 6-1) with a half-game lead over East Bladen (9-5, 5-1) in the Carolina Conference standings. The Eagles tagged ND with its lone league loss, and the two schools play on the final day of the regular season in Elizabethtown on Oct. 8. The Gators are responsible for the Eagles’ lone league setback. Brown (seven kills, nine aces) and Marissa Sanchez (14

digs) were key in the win over the Leopards as ND got over its awful 25-9 loss in the second set. The Rebels sit at 24th among volleyball teams in 2A. Dark Horses push through Panthers East Duplin was hitting rocket-hard shots, but Clinton held a 89-24 advantage in digs during its 3-0 (25-17, 25-21, 25-17) win. Nellie Bass had 14 kills and Vaiden Faircloth 25 assists as the Dark Horses won for the seventh consecutive time. Emma Wallace (eight kills, three blocks), Blaire Howard (five aces), Lorena Rodriguez (14 digs) and Karsyn Parker (11 digs) paced the Panthers (10-7, 2-1). The two schools collide in Beulaville on Oct. 6. Earlier in the week, ED had no trouble earning three-set wins over ECC foes Trask and Southwest Onslow. Bennett Holley (seven kills, 15 digs), Wallace (eight kills, three blocks) and Howard (seven kills) helped ED burn the Titans (25-22, 25-17, 25-22) in competitive sets. Pushing aside the Stallions (25-16, 25-17, 25-10) was far easier as many Panthers made contributions. It could be smooth sailing for coach Susan Raynor’s squad before it encounters the Dark Horses.

That’s about half of what Holley’s offenses deliver on Friday night. Zachary Cruz (836), Jeremiah Monk (2-14), Noah LeBlanc (5-11) and Darwin Bonilla (4-11) were chewed up by the Cardinals’ defensive claws. Jones (1 of 5 for 13 yards) likewise felt the pinch of Jacksonville’s pressure. Panthers paws Nickolas Davis had an interception for ED. Brody Weston made all six of his PATs. Frosh kicker Taylor Whaley made his only boot and is 3 of 3 for the season. He also punted three times. The Panthers have a bye this week and then will travel to Southwest Onslow (1-4) on Oct. 2. The Stallions’ win came via a 58-57 edging of Dixon. LeBlanc (57-498, 8 TDs) is second in rushing and first in touchdowns among all Duplin Journal schools. Mckinnie (53-289, 4 TDs) is fourth. WRH’s Adrian Glover (71-646, 7 TDs) is the run leader, while James Kenan’s Keyshawn Murray (40-293, 5 TDs) is third. Williams and Jacksonville won 12 games in each of the past two seasons. He’s the son of Chip Williams (226-89-1),

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Running was tough for Jeremiah Monk and all ED backs against Jacksonville’s big front line. who coached at Jacksonville, New Bern, Scotland County, JH Rose and Greensboro Smith. The younger Williams was a defensive coordinator for

his father at New Bern before taking over with the Cardinals. Jacksonville’s OC is James Kenan grad Pat Byrd, whose father Billy Byrd went

119-68 in 17 years in Warsaw. Holley’s father, of course, is the late Jack Holley (412-96-9). He was No. 1 in wins in the state for 15 years.

B3

Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

SOCCER ROUNDUP

Streaking Tigers rally past Midway with eye on Bulldogs JK has won eight of nine matches in its lead up to its match with WRH By Michael Jaenicke Duplin Journal WARSAW — Duplin County soccer fans will turn their attention to Teachey in less than two weeks for a highly anticipated match between James Kenan and Wallace-Rose Hill. The Tigers appear to be on target after losing twice to the Bulldogs last season during a 10-10-2 rebuilding season, which ironically came as WRH captured a 3A state title. A 3-1 win over Midway on Monday has all but cleared the way for the clash against the Bulldogs, even though it is Oct. 5. The Raiders led 1-0 at the halfway point, but JK got scores from Ismael Covarrubias, Gerzon Diaz and Devis Gomez off an assist from Covarrubias. “Midway has some fast players who can run all day, and we were slacking everywhere, especially defensively on balls on the top and in the middle,” said head coach Nelson Martell. “Even the first 20 minutes of the second until we woke up and started moving the ball like we can and do.” JK (9-1, 3-0) has only a 3-2 loss to 4A Clinton to spot its record, though WRH has clearly had a more difficult schedule. Yet the Tigers may field more experience on the sod. Meanwhile, WRH (8-5, 1-0)

EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

German Diaz scored three times in three games last week. has played 5A Richlands and Dixon, 6A Asheboro, 8A Laney and 9-2 Charlotte Country Day from the NCISAA ranks. WRH has a 13-12-2 lead in the series since 2011, but JK was 10-1-1 before last season’s sweep by the Bulldogs in head coach Aaron Murray’s second campaign. WRH won five straight from 2014 to 2017, but JK has been the dominator since 2018 when both schools were placed together through realignment in the ECC. Until last year. But WRH lost two all-state players and a flock

of players to graduation in June. JK meanwhile has a new inspiration for the season: Winning big to honor Mitchell Quinn, its coach for 12 years who died from cancer two weeks ago. Taking his place before the season was former JK goalie Martell. Quinn’s funeral was two days before the Midway in the school’s gymnasium. “Our guys want to win for themselves to prove something but also now because they know coach Quinn was a winner and they want to do it for him,” Martell said.

HOF from page B1 Lanier remembers a practice drill in which she and the late Lawanda Southerland, fellow assistant girls’ hoops coach, were using a rebounding machine to measure how high the girls could jump. “On Steph’s last completed attempt, Wanda and I looked at each other and said, ‘That looked pretty high.’ So we rolled the rebounder over to the goal, and it was even with the rim! “That was some pretty impressive ‘ups’ Steph had.” Player, who quickly progressed to become a mature player, grew up on the courts with older brother Billy, cousin Max and their friends. “I was the only girl,” she said, “so I had to play hard … and I couldn’t cry. So I think this toughness helped me in middle school.” Warsaw Middle is where she paired up for seven years of hoops, and a still-lasting friendship, with Rogers. Anita would continue as the point guard and most often the leading scorer on all their teams, but she was also the one who most often fed the ball to Player in the low post. “When we got to middle school,” Player said, “Anita asked me if I wanted to play with her (on the school team). That’s something I really wanted to do but somehow didn’t act on it until she asked. So, I attribute it all to ‘Neet.’ “We knew each other inside-out. It was like we were twins. We could just make eye contact on the court and knew what to do. “And at JK, Coach Futch told some of the corniest jokes, then laughed so hard, and we’d all just kinda look at each other. “But I’d give anything just

Stephanie Player was recruited by UMO but chose to go GardnerWebb and is currently looking to pursue a master’s degree at UNCP.

Gomez has 13 scores for JK, Christopher Rodriguez has nine and five assists, Ronald Ramirez seven and 12 assists, Covarrubias five goals and three assists, and Elder Bustillo three scores and six helpers. JK was the No. 1 RPI team in 3A to start the current week, while Midway was fifth and WRH eighth. WRH and JK tangle Oct. 28 in Warsaw, the final day of the regular season. Last week, the Tigers whipped Spring Creek 4-2, Rosewood 7-1 and South Brunswick 5-0. They’ve outscored the opposition 47-11. Ronald Ramirez and Gerzon Diaz each scored a pair of goals in the win over the Eagles. It was the first two goals of the year for Gerzon Diaz. Devis Gomez was the top scorer against the Cougars. The junior midfielder had two goals and an assist as JK launched 22 shots, 12 of which were on the goal. Devis Gomez also struck the back of the net twice against the Gators. Christopher Rodriguez and Ismael Covarrubias added scores and Giovanni Lincona made four saves in the cage. All three wins came without scoring help from team leaders Cergio Acosta and Libni Estrada, who have 12 and 11 goals, respectively. Bulldogs in familiar position WRH may be in a similar position as it was in ’25 when the Bulldogs slipped by Goldsboro in its league opener and then ran the table on ECC foes. Wilmer Flores scored twice, and Patrick Ross, Dennis Padilla and Iker Alvarado added goals during a 5-2 conquest of

13-12-2 WRH’s series lead over JK since 2011

the Cougars, which WRH beat 4-3 in two overtimes last fall. The win was a relief following a 4-0 setback to Laney (13-0) the previous day. WRH will host Midway this week and faces only Swine Valley Conference opponents until the playoffs. And even with an 8-5 mark, the Bulldogs have a 37-28 advantage in goals over their foes. Panthers, Rebels hope to showcase best in league play The struggle has been real for both East Duplin (4-8) and North Duplin (1-4-1, 1-3) this season. Angel Torres, Oscar Sanchez and Osiris Mendoza scored goals as the Panthers rallied to trip White Oak 3-2. Yet two days later they were whitewashed 7-0 by New Bern (8-0). They will host JK this week after falling to the Tigers 6-0 on Aug. 24. The rest of the schedule is filled with ECC teams. Jayce Hathen scored twice during ND’s 3-0 loss to East Bladen in a Carolina Conference match. Hobbton scored four unanswered goals in the second half during a 7-2 win in Calypso. Roberson Godinez notched his eighth score of the season and freshman James Wolfe the first but definitely not the last of his career.

MVP OF THE WEEK Keeshon Mckinnie East Duplin High School

#1 CLASS

Jesse Pierce, Agency Manager jesse.pierce@ncfbins.com

POSITION

Drake Lanier, Agent drake.lanier@ncfbins.com McKinly Matthews, Agent mckinly.matthews@ncfbins.com

COURTESY

2014) but didn’t want to take the time to continue with basketball. After she left Mount Olive, she went to James Sprunt Community College in Kenansville and received an associate degree in general education. Later, she matriculated to Gardner-Webb University west of Charlotte and earned a bachelor’s degree in human services. She plans “very soon” to attend UNC Pembroke to get her master’s degree and become a school counselor. Player is currently the supervisor of a nine-person staff at the Duplin County Department of Social Services. She’s also a single mom of three children: sons Jonathan, 21, and Jaden, 17, and daughter Jadence, 7.

See Jesse, Drake, McKinly, or Anderson today!

Sr.

DB/RB

to hear one more of his corny jokes. “He was so supportive of us, and we knew when to joke around and when to get serious. He was a wonderful person, and he was so patient with us. “We called him our coach-dad.” Futch, who died in fall 2003, was inducted into the JK Sports Hall of Fame in 2017. Player was blessed — and proud — to have played with outstanding players and friends at James Kenan. Besides Rogers and Smith, some of them included April Dixon, Beverly Jones, Sherrell Rivers and Shanta Armwood. “April was a couple inches taller,” Player remarked, “but she couldn’t out-jump me.” Player also competed on the girls’ track team, making the state 1A finals in the discus throw while also competing in the shot put and long jump. Steph, as friends call her, was recruited to Mount Olive College (University since

Sponsored by Farm Bureau Beulaville.

*North Carolina Farm Bureau ® Mutual Insurance Co. *Farm Bureau ® Insurance of North Carolina, Inc. *Southern Farm Bureau ® Life Insurance Co., Jackson, MS *An independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association

Anderson Caldwell, Agent anderson.caldwell@ncfbins.com

MVP OF THE WEEK

Bill Rollins is a JK and UNC journalism graduate who wrote for years for The Charlotte Observer before returning to Duplin County to cover prep sports.

Josh Favela

Sponsored by Farm Bureau Kenansville.

North Duplin High School

#51 CLASS

Jr.

POSITION

OL/DL

See Matt, Nick, or Austin today! Matt McNeill, Agency Manager roy.mcneill@ncfbins.com Nick Bell, Agent nick.bell@ncfbins.com Austin Brinkley, Agent austin.brinkley@ncfbins.com

*North Carolina Farm Bureau ® Mutual Insurance Co. *Farm Bureau ® Insurance of North Carolina, Inc. *Southern Farm Bureau ® Life Insurance Co., Jackson, MS *An independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association

PUBLIC NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING ON PROPOSED SALE OF COUNTY-OWNED LAND The Duplin County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on Monday, October 5th, 2026, at 6:00PM,

at the Duplin County Administrative Building, located at 224 Seminary Street, Kenansville, NC. The purpose of the hearing is to receive comments on the intended sale of county-owned real property previously acquired pursuant to NCGS 158-7.1. The land is approximately 24 acres of the WestPark Business and Industry Center, located

along WestPark Drive, near Warsaw, NC. The assessed value of the land is $135,080.21 or $5,600.34 per acre. The proposed consideration for the conveyance of land is $192,200 or $7,968.50 per acre. No conveyance may be approved until having held a public hearing and otherwise adhering to NCGS 158-7.1. Local Development.

B4

Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

REBELS from page B1 ND’s scheduled game against Midway on Friday has been canceled. The Rebels travel to East Bladen (3-2, 1-0) on Oct. 2. Ambassadors too much for Crusaders’ defense Ezekiel Kelly ran for 187 yards and scored three times, and quarterback David Echevarria (14-22 for 178 yards) threw touchdown passes to Travis Barton (4-61) and Troy Alderfer (2-14) as unbeaten Ambassador Christian belted Harrells Christian Academy 41-14 Saturday on Murphy-Johnson Field. The Lions (5-0) piled up 426 yards of offense, averaging 12.7 and 13.8 yards per pass and run, respectively.

The Crusaders (2-2) had trouble moving the ball against the Huntersville team and trailed 27-6 by halftime. Fullback Demetrius Jones paced the attack with 77 yards via 13 carries. DJ Davis added 52 yards on 11 totes, but last season’s top runner Jeremiah Davis was limited to 24 yards on eight carries. HCA could be in for all it can handle Friday when Covenant Day pays a visit to Harrells. The Lions from Matthews might be 1-3, yet a 14-0 loss to Trinity Christian on opening night says they will be ready for the Crusaders, who must play their best football to whip the Fayetteville team that rules the Big East Conference. HCA whipped Covenant Day

51-21 and lost the previous season 28-6.

NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Rams throttle Wildcats Michael Gatling (12-16) scored four times, and Kaleb Montanye and Andrew Williams combined to fire three touchdown passes as Havelock belted Richlands 49-7 at Wilbur Sasser Field last Friday. The Rams (2-3, 1-0 Coastal Conference) dominated every phase of the game to snap a three-game losing streak. Richlands (1-4) lost for the third consecutive time following a win over Southwest Onslow. Both schools play unbeaten teams Friday. Havelock hosts Croatan (5-0, 1-0), while Richlands is visited by Northside-Jacksonville (4-0).

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY

Estate of Bonnie Howard Mobley Estate File No. 26E000323-300

FILE#26E000167-300

Having qualified as Personal Representative of the Estate of Bonnie Howard Mobley, deceased, late of Duplin County, North Carolina, the undersigned hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to present their claims to the undersigned at the address below on or before December 3, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate are requested to make immediate payment.

The undersigned, ALYSSA J. EMERSON, having qualified on the 17TH DAY of SEPTEMBER 2026, as EXECUTOR of the Estate of TERI BRINEGAR EMERSON, aka TERI WYNNE BRINEGAR, 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 24TH Day of DECEMBER 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 24TH Day of SEPTEMBER 2026.

This the 25th day of August, 2026. Brittinay Baranowski Personal Representative of the Estate of Bonnie Howard Mobley 2165 Fountaintown Rd Chinquapin, NC 28521 First publication: September 3, 2026

ALYSSA J. EMERSON, EXECUTOR 422 W. SPRAGUE ST. WINSTON SALEM, NC 27127

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Run dates:S24,O1,8,15p

NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

FILE#26E000382-300

NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY

The undersigned, NORMAN R. ADKINS, JR., having qualified on the 11TH DAY of SEPTEMBER 2026, as EXECUTOR of the Estate of KATHY BATTS RIVENBARK, 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 17TH Day of DECEMBER 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 17TH Day of SEPTEMBER 2026.

FILE#26E000261-300 The undersigned, SHIRLEY CAROL CREECH ARMATYS, having qualified on the 23RD DAY of JUNE 2026, as EXECUTOR of the Estate of CHRISTINE EMILIE RIEDEL EZZELL, 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 17TH Day of DECEMBER 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 17TH Day of SEPTEMBER 2026.

NORMAN R. ADKINS, JR., EXECUTOR 503 W. BONEY STREET WALLACE, NC 28466

SHIRLEY CAROL CREECH ARMATYS, EXECUTOR 2852 S US 117 MAGNOLIA, NC 28453

Run dates:S17,24,O1,8p

Run dates:S17,24,O1,8p

NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

FILE#26E000358-300 The undersigned, REBECCA C. WALKER, having qualified on the 19TH DAY of AUGUST 2026, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of GRAHAM WALKER, 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 27TH 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 27TH Day of AUGUST 2026.

NORTH CAROLINA DUPLIN COUNTY FILE#26E000351-300 The undersigned, BERTHA J. GOLDBERRY, having qualified on the 14TH DAY of AUGUST 2026, as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of LONEY RENEE JUDGE, 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 10TH Day of DECEMBER 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 10TH Day of SEPTEMBER 2026.

REBECCA C. WALKER, ADMINISTRATOR 104 BILL BLAKE DR. WILLARD, NC 28478 Run dates:A27,S3,10,17p

BERTHA J. GOLDBERRY, ADMINISTRATOR 9 BASSETT AVE. MINE HILL, NJ 07803 EDWARDO PUAC / DUPLIN JOURNAL

Run dates:S10,17,24,O1p

Rimi Villalon and ND had a tough time bringing Lakewood runners to the ground in the second half.

26SP000036-300 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DUPLIN COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Abigail Melton, unmarried and Jill Melton, married to Glenn O’Keith Fisher, Attorney at Law, Trustee(s), which was dated January 6, 2023 and recorded on January 6, 2023 in Book 2019 at Page 329, Duplin 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 29, 2026 at 12:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Duplin County, North Carolina, to wit: TRACT #1: BEGINNING AT AN IRON PIPE IN THE SOUTHERLY EDGE OF THE 100 FOOT WIDE RIGHT-OF-WAY OF THE PAVED HIGHWAY THAT LEADS FROM WALLACE TO CHINQUAPIN, THIS SAME IRON PIPE BEGINNING CORNER BEING LOCATED NORTH 26 DEGREES 35 MINUTES WEST 52 0/10 FEET FROM THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE BASE OF THE HEADSTONE OF THE GRAVE OF ROSCOE PIERCE (THIS HEADSTONE BASE IS 1 4/10 FEET BY 6 5/10 FEET IN SIZE) THIS SAME IRON PIPE BEGINNING CORNER ALSO BEING LOCATED NORTH 79 DEGREES 15

MINUTES WEST 108 0/10 FEET FROM THE INTERSECTION OF THE CENTER OF THE PAVEMENT OF THE AFORESAID HIGHWAY WITH THE CENTER OF A CONCRETE PIPE HIGHWAY DITCH CULVERT AND FROM THIS BEGINNING CORNER SO LOCATED RUNNING THENCE AS FOLLOWS: 1. TO AND WITH THE CENTER OF A DITCH SOUTH 31 DEGREES 59 MINUTES WEST 103 0/10 FEET TO AN IRON PIPE; 2. THENCE WITH THE CENTER OF THE AFORESAID DITCH SOUTH 38 DEGREES 41 MINUTES WEST 51 7/10 FEET TO AN IRON PIPE; 3.THENCESOUTH41DEGREES35MINUTES WEST 44 6/10 FEET TO AN IRON PIPE IN DOLLIE ELLA BROWN’S PROPERTY LINE; 4. THENCE WITH THE AFORESAID DOLLIE ELLA BROWN PROPERTY LINE NORTH 83 DEGREES 11 MINUTES WEST 127 3/10 FEET TO AN IRON PIPE; 5. THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES TO THE AFORESAID HIGHWAY NORTH 38 DEGREES 21 MINUTES EAST 265 1/10 FEET TO AN IRON PIPE IN THE ABOVE MENTIONED SOUTHERLY EDGE OF THE 100 FOOT WIDE RIGHT-OF-WAY OF THE WALLACE TO CHINQUAPIN HIGHWAY; 6. THENCE WITH THE AFORESAID SOUTHERLY EDGE OF THE 100 FOOT WIDE RIGHT-OF-WAY OF THE WALLACE TO CHINQUAPIN HIGHWAY, THE SAME RUNNING PARALLEL TO THE CENTER OF THE PAVEMENT AND 50 FEET AS MEASURED AT RIGHT ANGLES THEREFROM SOUTH 51 DEGREES 39 MINUTES EAST 100 0/10 FEET TO THE POINT OF BEGINNING, AS SURVEYED DURING JANUARY, 1960. THE ABOVE DESCRIBED LAND IS A PART OF THE FIRST TRACT OF LAND DESCRIBED IN

A DEED FROM J.O. CARR, COMMISSIONER, TO G.B.D. PARKER, AS RECORDED IN BOOK 118 ON PAGE 84, REGISTER OF DEEDS OFFICE OF DUPLIN COUNTY. TRACT #2: BEGINNING AT AN IRON PIPE IN THE SOUTHERLY EDGE OF THE 100 FOOT WIDE RIGHT-OF-WAY OF THE PAVED HIGHWAY #41 THAT LEADS FROM WALLACE TO CHINQUAPIN, THIS SAME PIPE BEING LOCATED NORTH 26 DEGREES 35 MINUTES WEST, 52 FEET FROM THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE BASE OF THE HEADSTONE OF THE GRAVE OF ROSCOE PIERCE (THIS HEADSTONE BASE IS 1.4 FEET BY 6.5 FEET IN SIZE), THIS SAME IRON PIPE BEING THE BEGINNING CORNER OF THE STANLEY J. BADZINSKI AND WIFE, MARGARET B. BADZINSKI PROPERTY, AND FROM THIS CORNER NORTH 51 DEGREES 39 MINUTES WEST, 100 FEET TO THE BEGINNING CORNER, LOCATED IN THE SOUTHERLY EDGE OF THE 100 FOOT WIDE RIGHT-OF-WAY OF THE ABOVEMENTIONED HIGHWAY, THE BEGINNING CORNER OF LOT #1; THENCE WITH THE SOUTHERLY EDGE OF THE HIGHWAY #41, NORTH 51 DEGREES 39 MINUTES WEST, 50 FEET TO A STAKE, THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF LOT #2; THENCE WITH THE LINE OF LOT #2, SOUTH 38 DEGREES 21 MINUTES EAST, 294.4 FEET TO A STAKE IN THE CENTER OF THE DITCH, THE DOLLIE ELLA BROWN PROPERTY LINE; THENCE WITH THE OLD LINE AND THE CENTER OF THE DITCH, SOUTH 83 DEGREES 11 MINUTES EAST, 59.5 FEET TO A STAKE, THE STANLEY J. BADZINSKI AND MARGARET B. BADZINSKI CORNER IN SAID DITCH; THENCE WITH HIS LINE NORTH 38 DEGREES 21 MINUTES EAST, 265.1 FEET TO THE BEGINNING, CONTAINING .31 ACRES MORE OR LESS. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 2791

S NC 41 and 50 Highway, Chinquapin, NC 28521. 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 Abigail Melton and Jill Melton. 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, 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.: 24-18167-FC02

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TOWN OF WALLACE NORTH CAROLINA PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE Notice is hereby given that the Town Council of the Town of Wallace will hold a public hearing to receive public comment on a proposed amendment to the Town of Wallace Unified Development Ordinance (UDO), specifically Section 6.19 – Signage, Subsection P – Temporary Signs. The proposed amendment would revise the regulations governing temporary signs, including applicable

requirements, limitations, and conditions for the placement and display of temporary signage within the Town of Wallace. THE PUBLIC HEARING WILL BE HELD ON: October 8, 2026 after 6:00 p.m. Wallace Woman’s Club 216 NE Railroad Street Wallace, NC All interested persons are encouraged to attend and

provide comments regarding the proposed amendment. Written comments may also be submitted to the Town Clerk prior to the public hearing. A copy of the proposed ordinance amendment is available for public inspection at Wallace Town Hall during normal business hours and may be obtained from the Town Clerk. Following the public hearing, the Town Council may consider adoption of the proposed amendment. TOWN OF WALLACE Jackie Nicholson, Town Clerk 120 Municipal Drive Wallace, NC 28466

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

obituaries

SPONSORED BY QUINN MCGOWEN FUNERAL HOME

Annie Dillard, Pulitzer-winning author of ‘Pilgrim at Tinker Creek,’ dead at 81 She spent more than five decades exploring the intersection of nature, spirituality and self The Associated Press NEW YORK — Annie Dillard, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author and essayist renowned for her poetic explorations of nature, love, spirituality and the art of writing in the “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek,” “The Maytrees” and numerous other works, has died. She was 81. Her literary agent, Rob McQuilkin, said Dillard died Tuesday of natural causes at her home in South Wellfleet, Massachusetts. Starting in the mid-1970s, Dillard completed a wide range of books, from the poetry collection “Tickets for a Prayer Wheel” to what she would call the “jolly journalism” of “Encounters with Chinese Writers” to the novel of marriage, “The Maytrees,” a finalist for the PEN/Faulkner Award in 2008. Seven years later, President Barack Obama presented her with a National Humanities Medal for her “profound reflections on human life and nature.” Born Meta Ann Doak, she was a Pittsburgh native who in the 1987 memoir “An American Childhood” looked back at her early years and on her uniquely curious mind. She was raised

ANDREW HARNIK / AP PHOTO

President Barack Obama awards the 2014 National Humanities Medal to author Annie Dillard during a ceremony in the East Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., in September 2015. by nonconformists who gave her a wide range to learn and to discover, and she remembered with awe her growing sense of knowledge and self-knowledge. Resistant for much of her life to organized religion, she would find the eternal in animals, mountains, her mother’s skin and in everyday objects. At age 13, she wrote, she was reading “books on drawing, painting, rocks, criminology, birds, moths, beetles, stamps, ponds and streams, medicine.” Dillard had yet to turn 30 when “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek” established her as a major, new literary voice and heir to Hen-

ry David Thoreau as a sensitive and idiosyncratic observer of the natural world. Published in 1974 and winner of the Pulitzer for nonfiction, “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek” drew upon Dillard’s private writings about the surroundings of her home in Roanoke, Virginia. Invoking Thoreau, about whom she wrote her master’s thesis at Hollins College, she called her book “a meteorological journal of the mind,” in which she would explore “some of the sights of this rather tamed valley.” “I am no scientist,” she wrote, likening herself to “an infant who has just learned to hold his head up” and gaze about “in bewilderment.” “He hasn’t the faintest clue where he is, and he aims to learn. In a couple of years, what he will have learned instead is how to fake it: he’ll have the cocksure air of a squatter who has come to feel he owns the place,” she wrote. Dillard taught for more than 20 years at Wesleyan University before retiring in 2002. She was married three times, most recently to the late literary biographer Robert Richardson, whom she met after sending him a fan letter admiring his biography of Thoreau. She had one child, Cody, with second husband Gary Clevidence. Her first husband was creative writing teacher Richard Dillard, whom she divorced in 1975 after 10 years of marriage.

Presley Gerber, son of Cindy Crawford, model dead at 27 His sister praised him last month for being remarkably open about addiction The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — Presley Gerber, the son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessperson Rande Gerber, died Sunday at age 27, a family representative said. Gerber died at a rehabilitation facility, according to online records of the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. The medical examiner did not provide a cause of death Sunday. An autopsy was performed, but more testing is required before investigators can give a cause, according to the medical examiner’s website. The death was confirmed by Allie Jenkins, a representative for Crawford and Rande Gerber, who were married in 1998. “The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult and painful time,” Jenkins said in an email Sunday night. Gerber was model in own right Gerber was a model and the older brother of model and actor Kaia Gerber. He had been open about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse, documenting his journey on Instagram. He even started a “Mental Health Mondays” series on the platform to raise awareness and share wellness tips. Across multiple episodes, he related his own experiences with substances ranging from ketamine to kratom, as well as his time at rehabilitation facilities. He posted an Instagram video in March from Mexico, where he said he planned to take ibogaine, a potent psychedelic that is being studied as a treatment for opioid addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder and other conditions. Ibogaine — known

to sometimes trigger potentially fatal heart problems — is banned in the U.S. under the federal government’s most restrictive category for illegal, high-risk drugs, although President Donald Trump directed his administration to ease restrictions and spur research. Raised in Malibu, California, Gerber signed with the management agency IMG as a teenager and made his runway debut for Moschino at 16. In 2018, he appeared alongside his mother — whose famous beauty mark he inherited — in a Pepsi Super Bowl ad that paid homage to her 1992 commercial for the soda brand. That same year, he and his sister shot a campaign for Calvin Klein jeans. Gerber later signed with DNA Models. His biography on the agency’s website describes him as an entrepreneur and model who was inspired by “his mother’s legendary modeling career and his father’s lucrative business career.” Rande Gerber’s businesses have included restaurants, nightlife companies and Casamigos — a tequila brand he cofounded with George Clooney and Mike Meldman that was sold to Diageo in a $1 billion deal. Gerber open about struggles with addiction Gerber’s modeling biography also described him as an “avid surfer and skater.” In an Instagram video posted in July 2025, Gerber described growing up as a dedicated athlete who spent hours in the water nearly every day — a routine that came to a halt when he started working. With less physical activity, Gerber said, he was put on more medication and his quality of life suffered. “For me it took 10 years of looking back at my life being like, ‘Well, what changed?’ A lot of the time people would ask like, ‘You were such a happy kid; what happened to you?’” he re-

Jimmy Franklin Goodnight Aug. 2, 1939 – Sept. 18, 2026 Jimmy Franklin Goodnight, age 87, died Friday, September 18, 2026 at Autumn Village in Beulaville. He is survived by his daughters, Lynn G. Wright and husband Tom of Beulaville, Kim G. Feith and husband Joe of Castle Hayne, NC; and two grandchildren, Caraline Wright and Courtney Wright. A memorial service will be held at a later date by Moody Funeral Services in Mt. Airy, NC.

Louis Kornegay Jr. Sept. 7, 1954 – Sept. 14, 2026 Louis Kornegay Jr., age 72, died Monday, September 14, 2026 at ECU Medical Center in Greenville. He is survived by his wife, Diane Jones Kornegay of Rose Hill; sons, Adam Kornegay and wife Dawn of Rose Hill, Ashley Kornegay and wife Bridget of Rose Hill, Matthew Kornegay and wife Amanda of Rose Hill; sister Mary Batchelor and husband Murphy of Rose Hill; brothers, Greg Kornegay of TX, Michael Kornegay of Fayetteville, Rodney Kornegay and wife Julie of Graham; step-brothers, Gary Davis and wife Ruth of Rose Hill, Jamie Davis and wife Kim of Rose Hill; and three grandchildren. Funeral service Sunday, September 20, 2026, 2:00 p.m. at Empact Ministry, 5110 U.S. Hwy 117, Wallace, NC 28466, with visitation one hour before the service. Interment will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Serenity Funeral Home, PO Box 780, Beulaville, NC 28518.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Presley Gerber poses at the Samuel Goldwyn Theatre in March 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. called. “What happened was life happened and I wasn’t able to worry about one thing, which was my next meal and then get back in the ocean. Like I had to start making money, I had to start — I got a job.” In an interview with Vogue last month, Kaia Gerber praised her brother for being so open about his experience with addiction. “My parents for most of our lives were very, very private and didn’t share anything—and now we have this absolute teacher, my brother, who says, ‘I’m gonna be very human for everyone,’” she told the magazine. “There’s only so much you can hide from the world. And trying to put a lid on something just makes the person feel like you’re ashamed of them.” In addition to his testimonial videos, Gerber’s Instagram was a collection of modeling shoots and memories that stretched back to childhood. His life around cameras influenced his own interest in photography as an art form. “I have always been the type of person to stop and take a picture when everybody is just focused on the destination,” he told Vogue in 2016, on the occasion of his runway debut. “I feel like people walk by a countless amount of beauty in the world every day, and I hope that I don’t miss all of it.”

Linda Heath Herring Sept. 17, 2026 Linda Heath Herring, 80, passed away on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at Wallace Rehabilitation and Health Care Center. She was preceded in death by her parents, Levy and Mary Winnifred Heath; sister, Mary Lou Bostic and brother, Robert H. “Bobby”Heath Sr. Linda is survived by her husband, Joe Herring; nieces, Winnifred “Winnie”Heath Hill, Donna Lou Bostic Partridge (Ron), D. Anne Heath Rivenbark; and nephews, William Anthony “Tony”Bostic and Robert H. “Robby”Heath Jr. She also leaves behind many great and greatgreat nieces and nephews and her beloved dog “Buddy‚Äù. A Memorial Service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to Pink Hill Funeral Home, P.O. Box 65, Pink Hill, NC, 28572.

Shirley Elizabeth “Lib” Benton Jan. 10, 1937 – Sept. 16, 2026 Shirley Elizabeth “Lib”Buckner Benton, age 89, of Wallace North Carolina left this earthly life for her new home in Heaven to be forever with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, surrounded by loving family. She was born January 10, 1937, in Duplin County; the daughter of the late David Wooten Buckner and Lucy Batts Buckner Everette. “Lib”was also preceded in death by her beloved husband of 58 years Roy Lee Benton; and her siblings David Buckner, Charles Buckner, Donald Buckner, Mary B. Smith and Susie B. Gallant. Lib was a member of Corinth Baptist Church where she enjoyed singing in the choir when her health would allow. Earlier in life she was employed by J.P. Stevens and later she was employed and served the patients at Duplin Hospital and Pender Hospital for many years before retiring at the age of 72. Surviving to cherish his memory are her children four daughters, Dianne Benton Murray and husband Byron of Wallace, NC, Teresa Benton Adams and husband Floyd of Kenansville, NC, Sandra Benton Lanier of Rose Hill, NC and Patricia “Patty”Lyons Pierce of Spokane, WA; five grandchildren, Eric Murray and wife Morgan, Patrick Murray and wife Laken, Melissa Jones, Jason Pierce and Kyle Pierce; five great grandchildren, Jocelyn Jones, Carrlee Jack Murray, Skylar Murray, Cohen Murray and Baker Murray; sister Annette Hammond of Deatsville, AL; special niece June Robinson and husband Jimmy of Rose Hill, NC; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends that loved Lib dearly. Lib was a devoted wife and loving mother, grandmother and sister who adored her entire family. She found great joy in the simplest of things, but her greatest joy was family. Lib was a diligent homemaker and with a joyful spirit she filled her home with love and welcomed all who entered. She was a great cook and made the best chicken and pastry ever. Lib really enjoyed family get togethers when her family and extended families got together. These were special times for her. Being a good neighbor and friend, she was loved by all who knew her. Lib‚Äôs family is grateful to God for her life. Lib will be truly missed and will remain a warm memory in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026, at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Wallace Chapel. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Friday, one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Inurnment will be at Riverview Memorial Park, Watha, NC following the service. The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and staff at Campbell Health & Rehab and Lower Cape Fear LifeCare for the kindness, compassion, and devoted care they provided. Their patience, support, and acts of kindness brought peace and dignity during this season of life. A special thank you to Connor whom our mom adored and became like family. You may share your memories and send condolences to the family by selecting our Guestbook on this website. Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home of Wallace is serving the Benton family.

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Duplin Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

NOTICE OF GENERAL ELECTION DUPLIN COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA

on the campaign trail

The statewide general election will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Voters will be asked to show photo ID when they vote. All voters will be allowed to vote with or without ID. Voters who lack ID can get one for free from their county board of elections. Find out more at ncsbe.gov/voter-id. Polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Election Day. Early voting will be held at the following locations from Thursday, October 15, 2026, through Saturday, October 31, 2026. ED EMORY AUDITORIUM, 165 Agriculture Dr., Kenansville, NC 28349 AMERICAN LEGION POST 156, 529 E. Southerland St., Wallace, NC 28466 Thursday, October 15 Friday, October 16 Monday, October 19 Tuesday, October 20 Wednesday, October 21 Thursday, October 22 Friday, October 23 Saturday, October 24 Monday, October 26 Tuesday, October 27 Wednesday, October 28 Thursday, October 29 Friday, October 30 Saturday, October 31

8:00AM – 7:30PM 8:00AM – 7:30PM 8:00AM – 7:30PM 8:00AM – 7:30PM 8:00AM – 7:30PM 8:00 AM – 7:30PM 8:00AM – 7:30PM 8:00AM – 3:00PM 8:00AM – 7:30PM 8:00AM – 7:30PM 8:00AM – 7:30PM 8:00AM – 7:30PM 8:00AM – 7:30PM 8:00AM – 3:00PM

Absentee ballots will be mailed to voters who have requested them beginning September 4, 2026. Absentee ballots must be received by the county board of elections no later than 7:30 p.m. on Election Day, November 3, 2026. A voter can fill out an absentee ballot request at votebymail.ncsbe. gov, or by filling out a request form provided by the county board of elections office. The request must be received through the website or by the Duplin County Board of Elections by 5 p.m. October 20, 2026. Contests on the ballot include U. S. Senate, U.S. House, N.C. Supreme Court Associate Justice, N.C. Court of Appeals Judge, Superior and District Court Judge, N.C. House and Senate, and county offices. A Statewide Referendum proposing amendments to the N.C. Constitution will also be on the ballot. A County Referendum proposing a tax for fire protection will also be on the ballot for voters who live in the Natural Wells Fire Protection District. All persons who are registered to vote with the Duplin County Board of Elections may vote in this election. The voter registration deadline for this election is 5 p.m. Friday, October 9, 2026. Eligible individuals who are not registered by that deadline may register and vote at any early voting site during the early voting period. Individuals registering to vote at an early voting site will be required to provide current documentation of their residence (for example, a government ID, other government document, or a paycheck, bank statement, or utility bill). Voters voting in person are entitled to assistance by an election official, or, if assistance is needed due to disability or illiteracy, by a qualified person of their choice. Voting sites are accessible to all voters. Curbside voting is available for voters who are not able to enter voting sites without physical assistance because of age or physical disability. Legal Notice NOTICE TO THE VOTERS OF THE ROCKFISH PRECINCT Due to the decision made by the Duplin County Board of Elections and accepted by the State Board of Elections on 05/06/2025, the Rockfish precinct polling place will now be located at the American Legion building in Wallace at 529 E. Southerland Street, Wallace, NC 28466. NOTICE TO THE VOTERS OF THE LOCKLIN PRECINCT Due to the decision made by the Duplin County Board of Elections and accepted by the State Board of Elections on 05/06/2025, the Locklin precinct polling place will now be located at the American Legion building in Wallace at 529 E. Southerland Street, Wallace, NC 28466. Questions? Call the Duplin County Board of Elections Office at 910-296-2170 or send an email to dcboe@duplinnc.gov. Ann Henderson, Chair Duplin County Board of Elections

PHOTOS BY STAN GILLILAND / STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

President Donald Trump flew into North Carolina last Wednesday to campaign in Gastonia for Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley and other Republicans on the ticket in the Tarheel state. Vice President JD Vance flew into Greensboro on Monday for a similar event, as the Senate race appears tight in the polls, with former governor Roy Cooper holding a lead over Whatley.

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VOLUME 146 ISSUE 76 | WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2026 | STANLYNEWSJOURNAL.COM

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Stanly NewS Journal THE STANLY COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

WHAT’S HAPPENING Trump admin to remove 760K Affordable Care Act enrollees over fraud claims Washington, D.C. Vice President JD Vance and White House officials are announcing plans to remove 760,000 Affordable Care Act enrollees from public healthcare exchanges. They allege the individuals were fraudulently enrolled or do not exist. On Tuesday, Vance said this move would save $2.2 billion, ensuring subsidies go to those who need them. The Trump administration is also suspending new brokers from signing up enrollees for six months, citing fraud concerns. As of early 2026, about 19.2 million Americans are enrolled in ACA marketplace plans.

Trump signs U.S.Denmark-Greenland agreement to bolster Arctic security United Nations The United States, Denmark and Greenland have signed an agreement to strengthen security in the Arctic and North Atlantic. President Donald Trump signed the deal Tuesday on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York. Trump earlier announced he planned to bolster the U.S. military presence in Greenland while keeping it under Danish and Greenlandic control. Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire for Greenland to become part of the U.S., ramping up tension. The agreement recognizes Greenland’s sovereignty and aims to boost security for all parties involved. The U.S. military presence in Greenland has decreased significantly since 1945. There are currently around 200 U.S. troops on the Pituffik Space Base.

Flights disrupted across Northeast U.S. due to technical problems at key air traffic center Technicians have repaired data lines that failed at a key regional air traffic control center, and all major airports in the New York area began resuming operations after hundreds of flight cancellations rippled through the Northeast. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said in an online post that primary and backup telecom lines were fixed by Monday evening, allowing affected airports to resume operations. Hundreds of flights were canceled due to the issues.

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Election season President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance made separate campaign stops in North Carolina this past week to stump for Republicans on the ballot, including, most prominently, U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley. Trump came to Gastonia last Wednesday, while Vance flew into Greensboro on Monday.

Albemarle High reports gains in academics, student opportunities Academic growth continues at high school By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — Albemarle High School Principal Beverly Pennington gave Albemarle City Council an update this week on what she described as a three-year academic and cultural turnaround at the school. On Monday night, Pennington, in her fourth year as principal, told the council that the school has focused on consistency, stronger relationships and providing students

with more rigorous academic opportunities. “We have turned the data around,” Pennington said. “We have created an experience for students that is rigorous. It is preparing them for career and college after high school, and it is established in relationships.” Albemarle High currently has 383 students enrolled, with a growing number taking advanced coursework. Pennington said 26% of students are enrolled in Career and College Promise courses through Stanly Community College, while 78 students are taking at least one Advanced Placement course. The school now offers five

“We have turned the data around.” Beverly Pennington, Albemarle High principal AP courses, up from one three years ago. Eleven students are enrolled in two AP courses, while six are taking three. Ninth graders are also taking a computer science course through Stanly Community College to meet a new graduation requirement. Pennington highlighted Albemarle High’s AVID program, which serves 75 students and

LOCATIONS

• Albemarle-East/ Anderson Rd. • North Oakboro/ Red Cross Rd. • South Oakboro/ Rocky River Rd. • Mt. Pleasant • Biscoe • Locust

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inside Wagfest event returns with new 2-mile walk/run

Did you know there’s a school in Mississippi that helps teach baby raccoons how to be … raccoons? Turn to page A4 for the full story.

“Come out and support a great cause.” Christy Tietgens, event coordinator

The Wagfest festival event is back in Albemarle on Saturday from 2-8 p.m. Stanly County Humane Society By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — Wagfest will return to Stanly County on Saturday for an afternoon of live music, vendors, food, games and adoptable animals benefiting the Stanly County Humane Society. The free dog-friendly festival will run 2-8 p.m. at Market Station, located at 501 W. Main St. in downtown Albemarle.

All proceeds from the event will go directly to the humane society to support its work caring for local animals and helping them find permanent homes. This year’s Wagfest will begin with the inaugural Leashes and Laces 2-Mile Walk/Run, a nontimed event open to participants of all ages. The race will start at 2 p.m., beginning and ending at Market Station and following the Roger F. Snyder Greenway for a 2-mile course. Organizers are inviting runners and walkers of all experience levels to take See WAGFEST, page A4

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focuses on college and career readiness, organization, study habits, note-taking and collaboration. The school has also implemented schoolwide binders and regular binder checks as part of an effort to improve student organization. “We believe that it’s important in order to be successful in any of our content areas, students have to know and engage with what they read,” Pennington said. Tutoring is also being offered four days a week. Among the school’s most significant academic gains, Pennington said, is Albemarle

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A2

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, September 23, 2026

WEDNESDAY

9.23.26 #147

Federal Reserve official says fighting inflation likely to be ‘painful’ Supply shocks force the central bank to choose between inflation and employment

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By Christopher Rugaber The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — A top Federal Reserve official said Monday that the central bank may have to cause economic pain in the form of higher unemployment to combat stubbornly high inflation. Austan Goolsbee, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, said in a speech in London that the Fed is facing a series of persistent supply shocks that have driven up inflation, including higher oil prices from the Iran war and tariffs. Typically, Goolsbee noted, the central bank would essentially wait for such shocks to fade and inflation to fall on its own rather than raise borrowing costs. But faced with an ongoing series of persistent supply shocks, the Fed now has little choice but to hike rates, Goolsbee said. The increases are needed to lower consumer and business demand to a level consistent with reduced supply, he added, which

“It’s going to be painful. It would necessarily be painful.” Austan Goolsbee, Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago president should bring inflation back to the Fed’s 2% target. “The only way to bring inflation down is to raise rates and narrow the gap between supply and demand,” he said in a written copy of his remarks. “Forcing inflation back to target in the short run means pushing employment below target. ... In the short run, supply shocks force a difficult trade-off” between the Fed’s goals of low inflation and maximum employment. “It’s going to be painful,” Goolsbee said later to reporters. “It would necessarily be painful.” Goolsbee’s comments contradict Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh’s remarks last Wednesday at a news conference that took place after the Fed lifted its key interest rate for the first time in three years to about 3.9%.

“I don’t believe that we need to do harm to the labor markets to achieve our objective,” Warsh said last week. The Fed generally fights inflation by raising interest rates to cool borrowing and spending. Historically, such rate hikes have often slowed growth and have even led to recessions. Yet in 2022-23, the Fed sharply raised interest rates and inflation did decline, without a significant rise in unemployment or economic slowdown. Goolsbee also suggested while speaking with reporters that the Fed may need to implement more than just the one additional rate hike later this year that policymakers, as a group, forecast last week. There are signs that surging investment in data centers for AI is also pushing up inflation, he said, suggesting that strong demand is playing a role, as well as the supply shock from oil. If inflation mostly comes from supply shocks, then just one more rate hike could be sufficient, Goolsbee told reporters. “And if we get evidence that convinces us that it’s coming from demand, then it likely would not be enough,” he said.

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STANLY

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

Sept. 26 City of Locust Summer Concert Series Finale 7-10 p.m. The City of Locust closes out its summer concert series with the Michael Christopher Band, capped by an end-of-summer fireworks display. The free event includes food and craft vendors and activities for kids. 211 Town Center Drive Locust

Downtown Albemarle Murder Mystery Game 6-9 p.m. Ticket holders roam downtown Albemarle shops, quizzing business owners to identify "Albemarle's Most Wanted" in this interactive mystery game. Participants 21 and older can enjoy beverages along the route, with proceeds supporting local arts. Downtown Albemarle 130 S. 2nd St. Albemarle

Sept. 27

POSTMASTER:

Carolina Dance Masters Solo Title Preliminary Competition

Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh NC 27607

8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dancers compete for solo titles at this preliminary round. Stanly County Agri-Civic Center 26032 Newt Road Albemarle

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SCUSA Transportation General Public Service is available to all Stanly County residents. Providing service to people in need of transportation to Medical Appts, Work Personal Business & other locations. Wheelchair accessible vehicles. available.

J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE / AP PHOTO

Austan Goolsbee, left, then-Council of Economic Advisers chairman under President Barack Obama, testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., in February 2013.

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Albemarle High School Principal Beverly Pennington speaks at the Albemarle City Council meeting on Monday night.

High exceeded expected student growth last year for the first time while maintaining a “C” school performance grade. The school also posted a five-year high in its performance score and academic achievement score, along with a four-year upward trend in its growth score. Pennington said the school continues to expand its course offerings, adding electives in medical assisting, criminal justice, Bible history and artificial intelligence. The criminal justice course is being taught

with assistance from the Albemarle Police Department. Extracurricular offerings are growing as well. Albemarle High launched the district’s first girls’ flag football team and plans to add boys’ volleyball in the spring. “We are all amazed at the progress you’re making at Albemarle High School,” Mayor Ronnie Michael said. “To look at that graph and see the changes in basically the last three years is amazing.” The Albemarle City Council will hold its next regular meeting on Oct. 5 at 6:30 p.m. in the City Hall Council Chambers.

(704) 984-8837 Phyllis Kimrey & Adrian Lash

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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

COLUMN | SUSAN MILLS

Get to know the real Michael Whatley Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics.

I HAVE KEPT SILENT hoping people will educate themselves before voting, but I still see fellow Republicans trying to tear down a good person. I was elected NCGOP vice chair to serve with Michael Whatley. I worked with him closely for over three years. He is a man of faith, family and freedom. He loves his beautiful family and would never put his children in harm’s way by “hiring” a person that preys on children. He did not hire Harvey West. Harvey was elected by his constituents in the 1st District. Harvey was already a member of the Plan of Organization Committee when Whatley became chair of the NCGOP. Many people are kept on committees to allow their knowledge of how the committee works to be passed down to new members. There was nothing strange about keeping Harvey on that committee. Look at organizations in your community, state and country. Do you throw out all their institutional knowledge to bring on someone that is new and has no idea of where to begin?

Whatley is a man of faith. We started each meeting, event, dinner with a prayer. He is a God-fearing person. He always wanted to do what was right, and he did. No one is perfect, so stop looking for perfection in anyone! Whatley loves the people of North Carolina and of this great country. I have seen it firsthand. He doesn’t put himself first. It’s the folks of N.C. who he put first and always will. He is a man of his word and not a person that lies. We need Whatley in the U.S. Senate. Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics — the Democratic candidate did that! As a person that has worked closely with him and considers him a close friend, I ask you to vote for Michael Whatley for U.S. Senate! Susan Mills is a public high school teacher who lives in Fayetteville.

COLUMN | DANIEL MCCARTHY

The immigration politics of a felon’s pardon “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that.

HOW FAR will New York Gov. Kathy Hochul go to keep immigrant criminals in this country? So far, she’ll even pardon a man convicted of an aggravated felony if that’s what it takes to prevent the United States Supreme Court from setting a restrictionist precedent. Keisy Guerrero Mariano is a Dominican who spent two years in prison for committing a violent crime: second-degree assault. Mariano, known as “G.M.” in court documents, is exactly the sort of lawbreaker Americans overwhelmingly want to see deported. But not Hochul — she granted him clemency Aug. 28. His case stood out from those of the other five people she pardoned that day: The others were nonviolent offenders who’d committed their crimes decades ago: two in the 1980s, two in the ’90s, and just one as recently as 2007. G.M. was convicted in 2015. The governor decided he merited special leniency, for political reasons. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested G.M. in 2020, intending to deport him based on his criminal record. ICE had to let him go in 2022, however, because of a nationwide injunction related to COVID-19 that required the agency to review custody of individuals with certain medical conditions. While ICE had him, though, G.M.’s lawyers challenged the agency’s right to hold him for a prolonged time without a bond hearing. That’s what Hochul’s pardon is really about — the Trump administration planned to make the Dominican’s appeals a test case before the U.S. Supreme Court, one likely to establish that G.M. and others like him are not entitled to a bond hearing. Bond hearings are an easily exploited weakness in America’s immigration security, not only protracting the legal process of deporting lawbreakers but also giving them an opportunity to get out of detention temporarily — and then permanently fail to show up when they’re due for their next hearing. G.M. came to this country legally in 2011, but he forfeited any right to remain here once he committed a felony. Only now Hochul has nullified his conviction to undercut

ICE’s grounds for removing him and collapse the appeals process that was leading to the Supreme Court — and to a probable defeat for those who want to make deportation as difficult as possible. The governor isn’t looking out for New Yorkers here: Her maneuver is about liberal politicians’ zeal for maximum immigration, even when it means letting violent criminals remain in our communities. This is the second lucky break Hochul’s side has had recently. The other test case the Trump administration had teed up, involving a Jamaican national convicted (also in New York) of sexually abusing a child under the age of 11, has been taken out of the courts as well after the offender left the country and filed a court declaration saying he would not be coming back to America. Self-deportation is one way to get immigrants convicted of heinous crimes out of here. But ICE can’t deport someone who has already deported himself, so his claim of a right to a bond hearing is now completely moot. The big question still has to be answered, though: Can immigration enforcement detain these violent perps and sex offenders until they can be tossed out? Or if they’ve been in custody for a while, are they entitled to bond hearings that will further delay their removal — and give them the chance to escape back into Americans’ neighborhoods? Solicitor General John Sauer says he’s not going to let Hochul’s gambit succeed. G.M.’s case may have been pulled, but Sauer aims to find another that will bring the fight to the Supreme Court. “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that — even a legal immigrant who commits a serious offense ought to be expelled promptly, and he shouldn’t get the benefit of a bond hearing just because his case takes longer than it should and he winds up in “prolonged” detention. He shouldn’t get the benefit of a liberal governor’s partisan machinations either. New Yorkers — American citizens — elected Hochul, and she should put them first, not foreigners who commit crimes while they’re here, legally or otherwise. Daniel McCarthy is the editor of Modern Age: A Conservative Review. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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Raccoon boot camp in Mississippi teaches abandoned kits survival skills Graduating raccoons are released to the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance”

By Sophie Bates The Associated Press PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. — Muddy, sweat-soaked and occasionally bloody, the dedicated staff at a Mississippi wildlife center are drill sergeants. And their soldiers? Baby raccoons. Welcome to raccoon boot camp, where the goal is to help sick or injured animals learn to survive in the south Mississippi wilderness — a skill set they would have learned from their mothers, most of whom died or were separated from their kits by storms, traffic incidents or other traumatic events. It’s a challenge that’s left Woodside Wildlife Rescue’s founder, Paula Woodside, with cuts from scared, defensive raccoons and their sharp claws, and when she isn’t able to save a kit, emotional scars too. “When these babies come in and they’re so desperate, it’s heartbreaking,” said Woodside, who most days is covered in sweat from caring for the animals in the Mississippi heat and dirt from curious kits crawling up her legs and onto her shoulders. “It’s really important for them to get a little bit of a head start.” Wildlife rescue staff teach raccoons by example Woodside, a former U.S. merchant mariner, opened the rescue in 2019 after she helped rehabilitate a baby raccoon found aboard her ship. The rescue in the coastal city of Pass Christian typically raises dozens of kits each year, 76 so far this year, alongside other indigenous wildlife. City animal control and citizens call Woodside, or the rescue’s director, Raquel Priest, when they find a raccoon in need of saving. Together, they attempt to reunite the kits with their mothers, if they can find them, or bring the kits to the rescue. The youngest raccoons will spend a few weeks mostly indoors being bottle-fed by rehabbers until they’re vaccinated for diseases carried by cat colonies and dogs and are

SOPHIE BATES / AP PHOTO

A raccoon kit digs through water and mud at Woodside Wildlife Rescue in Pass Christian, Mississippi, on Sept. 1. ready to move to outdoor pens. Though the kits stay close to their adoptive human parents, they’re eventually allowed to roam free during the day on the rescue’s rural 20acre property, a sprawling mix of meadows and thick forest spotted with ponds and a nearby river. Thanks to that setting, Woodside and Priest can take their troops on learning excursions, a luxury many wildlife rescues don’t have, Woodside said. Woodside and Priest teach by example. They hide worms in the dirt to show the kits how to dig for food and break open pine cones or acorns to reveal the seeds inside. The raccoons’ eyes light up when they encounter a new tasty food, and they run to show their discovery to their rehabbers before hurrying back to fend off other kits who might try to steal their find. Where a drill sergeant might yell, ‘Attention!’ Priest and Woodside give a shrill trilling sound, mimicking the raccoon call for danger, that sends the kits running up trees to safety. A short whistle lets the troops know the coast is clear. The kits also practice fishing in shallow pools, their uncoordinated paws tentatively patting the water until they’re quick enough to snag a snack. A live quail hunt provides hunting experience. While these are skills raccoons would likely learn on their own, Woodside’s staff hopes the training gives the kits a greater chance of survival. On the property’s pond, the

raccoons learn to swim, a critical skill in hurricane-prone south Mississippi. The rehabbers take to kayaks and encourage the kits to swim back and forth. They also take trips to the deep woods, where kits learn to run from tree to tree to avoid being seen by birds of prey and to have a quick escape route from snakes or other dangers on the ground. Raccoons graduate to “Pomp and Circumstance Marches” For their final lesson, a volunteer — who isn’t Woodside or Priest — traps the raccoons in cages, scaring them enough to encourage them to avoid traps and humans. The experience helps the young raccoons wean themselves from their human rescuers, a process Priest said naturally occurs as they mature. When a group of kits is ready for release, about six months after their rescue, Woodside and Priest host a graduation ceremony. They play Edward Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance Marches” and read a roll call of each graduating kit’s name. A reverend then blesses their journey as they’re released onto a different section of the rescue’s forest-covered property. For kits that die in care, the staff holds a second ceremony to bless and scatter their ashes. “It’s like watching your children leave home,” Priest said. “It’s important to see them prosper and go and be the mischievous creatures they were meant to be.”

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A raccoon kit peers through an enclosure at Woodside Wildlife Rescue on Sept. 1 in Pass Christian, Mississippi.

WAGFEST from page A1 part, whether competing on their own or bringing a dog along for the route. Participants can register in one of two divisions. The “2-Legs Division” costs $30 and includes an official event T-shirt, while the “6-Legs Division” — designed for participants bringing a dog — costs $35 and includes a T-shirt and a commemorative bandana for the four-legged teammate. Registration and donations are available online at runsignup.com. “I’ve been working behind

the scenes this year to bring this event together, and it’s finally almost here,” event coordinator Christy Tietgens said. “This year, we’re kicking things off with the Wagfest Leashes and Laces 2 Mile Walk/Run.” After crossing the finish line, participants can remain at Market Station for the rest of the festival, which will include pup cups, food trucks, local beer and wine, craft vendors, raffles, games and other dog-friendly activities. Vendors will offer items including crafts, candles, dog accessories, permanent jewelry and other handmade goods.

Adoptable dogs and cats will also be on site for visitors to meet while learning more about the humane society’s work in Stanly County. Live entertainment will begin with DJ Nikki from 2-4 p.m., followed by Joy Almond from 5-7 p.m. “My good friend DJ Nikki will kick us off, and then Stanly County’s very own Joy Almond will close out the evening,” Tietgens said. “This festival benefits the Stanly County Humane Society, so come walk, run, dance, shop, or just hang out. Come out and support a great cause.” Sponsors include Uwhar-

rie Bank, The Marketplace, Uwharrie Kush, Honey Badger Holdings, Kimrey Lash Re-

alty, Lake Tillery Properties and New South Realty, among others.

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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on the campaign trail

PHOTOS BY STAN GILLILAND / STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

President Donald Trump flew into North Carolina last Wednesday to campaign in Gastonia for Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley and other Republicans on the ticket in the Tarheel state. Vice President JD Vance flew into Greensboro on Monday for a similar event, as the Senate race appears tight in the polls, with former governor Roy Cooper holding a lead over Whatley.

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, September 23, 2026

OBITUARIES Annie Dillard, Pulitzer-winning author of ‘Pilgrim at Tinker Creek,’ dies at 81

Curtis Eugene “Gene” Benton Sept. 19, 2026 Curtis Eugene “Gene” Benton, 82, passed away on Saturday, September 19, 2026, at his home in Oakboro, NC. Gene is survived by his wife, Bonnie Hathcock Benton of the home, his daughter, Kelly Foster of Raleigh NC, grandson D. Brandon Foster of Seattle, WA, granddaughter Kristina Ryan of San Francisco, CA, nephew Steve Helms (Vonnie), nephew Scott Helms, and many other nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents Elmer Benton and Annie Blalock of Monroe, a sister Shirley Benton Helms, brother inlaw George W. Helms, and niece Gail Norris. Gene was a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He was a 20-year Army veteran having served in both the Vietnam and Desert Storm conflicts and was a proud and patriotic military veteran. He loved to watch old movies, enjoyed attending cruiseins, working on his truck, and watching football. Gene was a member of Mineral Springs Baptist Church, where he served in various capacities. Funeral service will be at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at Mineral Springs Baptist Church in Oakboro, with Rev. Dr. Kinney Wallace officiating. Interment will follow in the church cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 pm until 1:45 pm prior to the hour of service. Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Locust is serving the Benton family.

She spent more than five decades exploring the intersection of nature, spirituality and self The Associated Press NEW YORK — Annie Dillard, the Pulitzer-Prize winning author and essayist renowned for her poetic explorations of nature, love, spirituality and the art of writing in the “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek,” “The Maytrees” and numerous other works, has died. She was 81. Her literary agent, Rob McQuilkin, said Dillard died Tuesday of natural causes at her home in South Wellfleet, Massachusetts. Starting in the mid-1970s, Dillard completed a wide range of books, from the poetry collection “Tickets for a Prayer Wheel” to what she would call the “jolly journalism” of “Encounters with Chinese Writers” to the novel of marriage, “The Maytrees,” a finalist for the PEN/Faulkner award in 2008. Seven years later, President Barack Obama presented her with a National Humanities Medal for her “profound reflections on human life and nature.” Born Meta Ann Doak, she was a Pittsburgh native who in the 1987 memoir “An American Childhood” looked back at her early years and on her uniquely curious mind. She was raised by nonconformists who gave her a wide range to learn and to discover, and

Annie Dillard

ANDREW HARNIK / AP PHOTO

President Barack Obama, right, awards the 2014 National Humanities Medal to author Annie Dillard during a ceremony in the East Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., in September 2015. she remembered with awe her growing sense of knowledge and self-knowledge. Resistant for much of her life to organized religion, she would find the eternal in animals, mountains, her mother’s skin and in everyday objects. At age 13, she wrote, she was reading “books on drawing, painting, rocks, criminology, birds, moths, beetles, stamps, ponds and streams, medicine.” Dillard had yet to turn 30 when “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek” established her as a major, new literary voice and heir to Hen-

ry David Thoreau as a sensitive and idiosyncratic observer of the natural world. Published in 1974 and winner of the Pulitzer for nonfiction, “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek” drew upon Dillard’s private writings about the surroundings of her home in Roanoke, Virginia. Invoking Thoreau, about whom she wrote her master’s thesis at Hollins College, she called her book “a meteorological journal of the mind,” in which she would explore “some of the sights of this rather tamed valley.” “I am no scientist,” she

wrote, likening herself to “an infant who has just learned to hold his head up” and gaze about “in bewilderment.” “He hasn’t the faintest clue where he is, and he aims to learn. In a couple of years, what he will have learned instead is how to fake it: he’ll have the cocksure air of a squatter who has come to feel he owns the place,” she wrote. Dillard taught for more than 20 years at Wesleyan University before retiring in 2002. She was married three times, most recently to the late literary biographer Robert Richardson, whom she met after sending him a fan letter admiring his biography of Thoreau. She had one child, Cody, with second husband Gary Clevidence. Her first husband was creative writing teacher Richard Dillard, whom she divorced in 1975 after 10 years of marriage.

Presley Gerber, son of Cindy Crawford, model, dead at 27 His sister praised him last month for being remarkably open about addiction The Associated Press

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Stanly News Journal at obits@ stanlynewsjournal.com

“He hasn’t the faintest clue where he is, and he aims to learn. In a couple of years, what he will have learned instead is how to fake it: he’ll have the cocksure air of a squatter who has come to feel he owns the place.”

LOS ANGELES — Presley Gerber, the son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessperson Rande Gerber, died Sunday at age 27, a family representative said. Gerber died at a rehabilitation facility, according to online records of the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. The medical examiner did not provide a cause of death Sunday. An autopsy was performed, but more testing is required before investigators can give a cause, according to the medical examiner’s website. The death was confirmed by Allie Jenkins, a representative for Crawford and Rande Gerber, who were married in 1998. “The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult and painful time,” Jenkins said in an email Sunday night. Gerber was model in own right Gerber was a model and the older brother of model and actor Kaia Gerber. He had been open about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse, documenting his journey on Instagram. He even started a “Mental Health Mondays” series on the platform to raise awareness and share wellness tips. Across multiple episodes, he related his own experiences with substances ranging from ketamine to kratom, as well as his time at rehabilitation facilities. He posted an Instagram video in March from Mexico,

where he said he planned to take ibogaine, a potent psychedelic that is being studied as a treatment for opioid addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder and other conditions. Ibogaine — known to sometimes trigger potentially fatal heart problems — is banned in the U.S. under the federal government’s most restrictive category for illegal, high-risk drugs, although President Donald Trump directed his administration to ease restrictions and spur research. Raised in Malibu, California, Gerber signed with the management agency IMG as a teenager and made his runway debut for Moschino at 16. In 2018, he appeared alongside his mother — whose famous beauty mark he inherited — in a Pepsi Super Bowl ad that paid homage to her 1992 commercial for the soda brand. That same year, he and his sister shot a campaign for Calvin Klein jeans. Gerber later signed with DNA Models. His biography on the agency’s website describes him as an entrepreneur and model who was inspired by “his mother’s legendary modeling career and his father’s lucrative business career.” Rande Gerber’s businesses have included restaurants, nightlife companies and Casamigos — a tequila brand he cofounded with George Clooney and Mike Meldman that was sold to Diageo in a $1 billion deal. Gerber open about struggles with addiction Gerber’s modeling biography also described him as an “avid surfer and skater.” In an Instagram video posted in July 2025, Gerber described growing up as a dedicated athlete

KAMIL ZIHNIOGLU / AP PHOTO

Model Kaia Gerber, left, and her brother, Presley Gerber, pose in Paris in September 2017.

“There’s only so much you can hide from the world. And trying to put a lid on something just makes the person feel like you’re ashamed of them.” Kaia Gerber, model and actor who spent hours in the water nearly every day — a routine that came to a halt when he started working. With less physical activity, Gerber said, he was put on more medication and his quality of life suffered. “For me it took 10 years of looking back at my life being like, ‘Well, what changed?’ A lot of the time people would ask like, ‘You were such a happy kid; what happened to you?’” he recalled. “What happened was life happened and I wasn’t able to worry about one thing, which was my next meal and then get back in the ocean. Like I had to start making money, I had to start — I got a job.”

In an interview with Vogue last month, Kaia Gerber praised her brother for being so open about his experience with addiction. “My parents for most of our lives were very, very private and didn’t share anything— and now we have this absolute teacher, my brother, who says, ‘I’m gonna be very human for everyone,’” she told the magazine. “There’s only so much you can hide from the world. And trying to put a lid on something just makes the person feel like you’re ashamed of them.” In addition to his testimonial videos, Gerber’s Instagram was a collection of modeling shoots and memories that stretched back to childhood. His life around cameras influenced his own interest in photography as an art form. “I have always been the type of person to stop and take a picture when everybody is just focused on the destination,” he told Vogue in 2016, on the occasion of his runway debut. “I feel like people walk by a countless amount of beauty in the world every day, and I hope that I don’t miss all of it.”

STANLY SPORTS

COURTESY DAWN LUCAS PHOTOGRAPHY

North Stanly’s Colton Martin leads his team on the field carrying the American flag.

North Stanly aims for 5-0 record with home game against TJCA The Comets have held two opponents to fewer than three points this season By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — The sixth week of the high school football season will feature three Stanly County teams at home and one on the road. One squad returns from a bye, while the other three are coming off victories. That Week 5 sweep lifted the county’s combined record above .500 at 9-7, with one team still maintaining a perfect

record and another now in the win column. Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy at North Stanly Back in New London after a 7-2 defensive-led win at Mountain Island Charter, the undefeated North Stanly Comets (4-0) will host Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy. The Gryphons (1-3) are coming off an 11-0 home loss to Albemarle and have not won a game since their season opener against Bradford Prep, setting up a favorable situation for a Comets squad looking to im-

prove to 5-0. Last season, North Stanly won its first six games before being handed a loss. West Stanly at Eastern Randolph Rested from a bye week, West Stanly is set to travel to Ramseur to face Eastern Randolph, which had a 14-3 road loss at Asheboro last weekend. The Colts (2-2) and Wildcats (2-3) have each alternated wins and losses every week this fall, with both teams failing to establish consistency through the opening stretch of the season. West Stanly is coming off a 34-28

By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

PJ WARD-BROWN / STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

The South Stanly Rowdy Rebel Bulls got their first win of the 2026 season last Friday night.

NORWOOD — Nearly a month into the season, South Stanly’s football team has found its way into the win column. The Rowdy Rebel Bulls delivered their most complete performance of the season Friday, rolling past winless Bonnie Cone Leadership Academy 49-14 at home. South Stanly (1-3) set a season high for points and allowed its fewest in a game this year. The Bulls entered the matchup having scored a combined six points in consecutive losses to Piedmont and Anson. The breakthrough did not come immediately. South Stanly built a 13-0 lead before the Eagles answered to pull within 13-8. The Bulls regained control before the break, adding two touchdowns to carry a 28-8 advantage into halftime.

Points allowed by the Comets against Mountain Island Charter

home loss to Central on Sept. 11. Union Academy at South Stanly

Mountain Island Charter at Albemarle

South Stanly will be the first county team this season to begin conference play as it hosts Yadkin Valley Conference opponent Union Academy. After finishing 8-3 last season, the Rowdy Rebel Bulls (1-3) got their first win of 2026 with a 49-14 home victory over Bonnie Cone Leadership Academy on Friday. The Cardinals (2-2, 0-1 YVC) recently had a 33-27 road loss at North Rowan in their own league opener.

Back home after three consecutive road games, the Albemarle Bulldogs (2-2) are scheduled to host the Mountain Island Charter Raptors (3-1), who are fresh off their home loss to the Comets. Albemarle’s defense came alive in the Bulldogs’ 11-0 road shutout over TJCA, providing the team a recipe for success as it faces a Raptors squad that was held to just two points by North Stanly on Monday night.

South Stanly breaks through for first win The Bulls defeated Bonnie Cone by 35 in Norwood

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Touchdowns scored by the South Stanly football team against BCLA

Bonnie Cone (0-4) scored again in the third quarter, but South Stanly never allowed the game to tighten. The Bulls led 35-14 entering the fourth and tacked on two more touchdowns to complete a 36-6 run after the Eagles had made it a five-point contest. The loss continued a difficult opening stretch for Bonnie Cone, which has been outscored 159-42 through four games. South Stanly surpassed the Eagles’ season-long scoring total with its 49-point offensive outburst Friday. South Stanly found the end zone in several ways, producing five rushing touchdowns, one

passing score and a defensive touchdown. Sophomore Andre Dockery provided the defensive highlight when he recovered a fumble and returned it 60 yards for a score. The 35-point victory offered a sharp reversal for a team that opened with three difficult losses to West Stanly, Piedmont and Anson. It also gave the Bulls a needed lift before their schedule shifts to Yadkin Valley Conference play. South Stanly is trying to build on an 8-3 campaign in 2025, when it finished third in the conference (5-1) and did not lose a regular-season game by more than six points. That season also secured the program’s first back-to-back winning seasons since 2011 and 2012. Although the nonconference start has left the Bulls below .500, their league goals remain intact with every team beginning conference play on even footing. South Stanly will open its YVC schedule Friday at home against Union Academy (2-2, 0-1 YVC). The Cardinals have already played one conference game, while the Bulls will enter their league opener with momentum after their first win.

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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SIDELINE REPORT NFL

NFL says teams can’t sign Harris, Wright after attempts to play for LSU New York The NFL has sent a memo to each of its teams saying Zxavian Harris and Dae’Quan Wright are not eligible to join any NFL teams this season after they attempted to return to college and play for LSU. Harris and Wright both played for Mississippi last season and had tryouts in the NFL this summer after going undrafted. They then tried joining former Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin at LSU and sued for the right to regain their college eligibility. LSU left both players off its roster as it opened its season.

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Paralyzed A’s minor leaguer Lasko leaves hospital West Orange, N.J. Ryan Lasko, a minor league prospect with the Athletics who was paralyzed in an outfield collision more than two months ago, was released from an in-patient rehabilitation hospital to continue his recovery from home. The 24-year-old Lasko was released exactly two months after arriving at the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in New Jersey. It’s about 35 miles from where he attended college at Rutgers and became a second-round draft pick by the A’s in 2023.

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NBA

Knicks star Brunson to make appearance on “Law & Order: SVU” New York New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson will make a guest-starring appearance on “Law & Order: SVU” this fall. NBC announced Brunson will appear in the season’s fifth episode, which is scheduled to air Nov. 5. Details on Brunson’s exact role weren’t revealed. Brunson already is set to host the season premiere of “Saturday Night Live” on Sept. 26. He made an appearance in the opening of the Emmy Awards telecast that was hosted by “Law & Order: SVU” star Mariska Hargitay.

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CFP clarifies how committee can respond to Michigan-WMU result The College Football Playoff says it can’t change the outcome of any games played during the regular season but notes that its selection committee relies on various measures beyond wins and losses. The CFP statement follows the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision Oversight Committee’s announcement that it also doesn’t have the authority to overturn the result of No. 19 Michigan’s controversial 13-12 victory over Western Michigan. The CFP notes that its selection committee “evaluates all teams on a comprehensive body of work over a full season, driven by how teams perform in each game.”

NASCAR

Pruett is stepping away from NHRA to focus on having a second child with Stewart Leah Pruett, in contention for her first NHRA Top Fuel championship, will step away from the drag-racing series at the end of this season to focus on having a second child with husband Tony Stewart. Pruett sat out 2024 and 2025 to start a family. She gave birth to their son, Dominic, in November 2024. Tony Stewart, a NASCAR Cup Series champion and IndyCar champion, filled in for her. Pruett returned this year, and Stewart moved to Elite Motorsports. They currently rank third and fourth, respectively. Eight-time Top Fuel champion Tony Schumacher will take her seat next season.

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B3

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, September 23, 2026

Logano claims Cup playoff victory at Bristol Carson Hocevar and Ryan Blaney fought afterward The Associated Press BRISTOL, Tenn. — Joey Logano won the Cup Series race Saturday at Bristol Motor Speedway, while the driver he passed for the win stole the show with old-school NASCAR feuding and fisticuffs. Carson Hocevar, a brash 23-year-old who has earned the ire of veterans with his aggressive driving, traded punches in the pits with Ryan Blaney after they were involved in an incident while racing for second with 41 laps left. Hocevar stopped his car after finishing third and was greeted by a shove from Blaney.

The 6-foot-4 Hocevar, who stands several inches taller than Blaney, responded with two overhand rights. The first knocked off Blaney’s hat, and the second connected with Blaney’s left cheek. Blaney fell to the pavement and then scrambled to his feet and out of a crew member’s hold while Hocevar raised his arms and pointed at him. Blaney charged and threw a wild left that knocked off Hocevar’s hat. They then were separated by team members as Blaney continued to yell at Hocevar. “There wasn’t a whole lot of talking,” Hocevar said. “He just kind of said one thing and then went after me, and I wasn’t going to take it. I got ran into a lot for the win. That was for second, and he wants to come fight. They got an old-school Bristol show here.”

“There wasn’t a whole lot of talking,” Carson Hocevar The contact between the drivers started shortly after Blaney took second with an outside pass of Hocevar, who immediately slid his No. 77 Chevrolet down the track. Blaney moved low to block, and Hocevar stayed in the accelerator to knock the No. 12 Ford into a spin that ended in the inside wall. “I don’t know what I did wrong there,” Hocevar said. “I crossed him over and looked like he spun himself, and then he wants to instigate a fight. I was going to finish that, and it seemed like the crowd was pretty pumped up, so

I was going to play the audience for a second.” Blaney, who led a race-high 202 laps despite starting 29th, was already frustrated after falling into heavy traffic because of a penalty for a pit lane violation with just over 100 laps remaining. His rally was cut short by the crash that dropped him to sixth in the Chase standings with his second consecutive finish outside the top 30. In an interview during the race, Blaney said, “I tried to protect the bottom, he crossed and never lifted, and I got crashed.” When asked which driver was at fault, Blaney said, “I don’t (expletive) know. Each person is going to say they did nothing wrong.” Kyle Larson finished second to move into the Chase lead by a point over Denny Hamlin.

Christopher Bell was fourth, followed by Ty Gibbs, who led 120 laps before finishing fifth. Gibbs and Hocevar exchanged the lead four times in the final 100 laps. Their battle for first after a restart with nine laps remaining opened the door for Logano, who zipped past Hocevar and led the final seven laps. With his 40th career victory and third this season, Logano became the winningest Cup Series driver for Team Penske and moved into third place in the Chase points standings. But he realized all of those accomplishments would be eclipsed by videos of the Blaney-Hocevar fight that he still had yet to see. “I’m sure I’ll see it all week long,” Logano said, pausing to add with a laugh. “They’ll probably forget who won the race.”

WADE PAYNE / AP PHOTO

Ty Gibbs (54) leads Carson Hocevar (77), Kyle Larson (5) and Ryan Blaney (12) during Saturday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Bristol.

Sanchez eyes NWSL record in career season with North Carolina The Courage midfielder looks to score 20 goals By Drew Renner The Associated Press ASHLEY SANCHEZ entered the season with a number in mind. Nineteen goals later, the finish line keeps moving. First, the North Carolina Courage midfielder wanted 10 goals. Then 15. Now, after setting the National Women’s Soccer League single-season scoring record for an American player, Sanchez has settled on another number — and another record to break. “What’s funny was, I did have a goal, and then it just kept moving,” Sanchez said. “Now, I guess it’s just 20.” Sanchez’s latest goal, a curling strike into the top right corner in the 82nd minute against the San Diego Wave on Saturday, moved her within one of Temwa Chawinga’s NWSL single-season record of 20 in 2024. It came after Sanchez scored a hat trick in a 6-0 win over the Chicago Stars, earning her the third NWSL Player of the Week honor this season. For the 27-year-old, this kind of scoring output would have

seemed unlikely a year ago. Sanchez scored five goals in 2024 and two last season. Before this year, she had never recorded a professional brace. Now, she has five multigoal games, including her first career hat trick, and is the runaway leader in the NWSL’s Golden Boot race with six games left for the Courage in the regular season. “This is my first year playing this position,” Sanchez said. “I do think that I could do even more.” The move out wide had an early believer. Sanchez said her fiancé, former professional soccer player Tommy Williamson, was one of the first people to see her potential as a winger. The two trained together, working specifically on the position long before the flurry of goals. “He was like, ‘Oh, I think this would be really good for you in this spot. Let’s get some reps here,’” Sanchez said. Courage coach Mak Lind said the goals are the result of qualities Sanchez already possessed. “She has herself to thank,” Lind said. “The only thing I’ve been doing, together with the coaching side, is to make sure she understands her potential.” As Sanchez has found a new

MARK ZALESKI / AP PHOTO

U.S. midfielder Ashley Sanchez (2) kicks the ball away from Japan midfielder Fuka Nagano (8). rhythm on the field, she has also found more balance away from it. Sanchez said she used to be “lazy” when she came home from training, but getting a second dog about a year and a half ago changed her routine. Benny, an energetic yellow Labrador, joined her French bulldog, Nala, and made sitting around less of an option. Sanchez now takes them to the park nearly every day. Those trips have become a way to slow down, spend time in nature and ground. “This job is a lot, and it’s chaotic,” Sanchez said. “I try to calm myself.”

“What’s funny was, I did have a goal, and then it just kept moving,” Ashley Sanchez On the pitch, opponents are paying increasingly close attention. Ahead of Saturday’s match, Sanchez said one of San Diego’s “Keys of the Game” caught her eye: “Silent Sanchez.” That level of attention is unfamiliar, even for a player who made her senior U.S. national team debut in 2021 and went

to the 2023 World Cup. Sanchez has 28 international appearances but has not been called into a U.S. camp since January 2025. She said this season has not been about proving anything. “I’ve just been really enjoying this season,” Sanchez said, “and I feel like I’m showing the joy that I’m having with the things that I’ve been able to do on the field.” Even as the attention around Sanchez grows, Lind said her approach has stayed the same. “It’s easy to get hyped when you hear people talk about you, but she’s so humble in what she does,” Lind said. “So that makes me believe that she’s not done with scoring goals.”

B4

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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By order for service by publication dated the 1st day of September, 2026, and filed on the 10th day of September, 2026, you are hereby notified that on June 18, 2026, Cody Gardinier filed a Petition for Legitimation in the Superior Court of Emanuel County, Georgia. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court of Emanuel County and serve upon Petitioner’s attorney, whose name and address are: Courtney Joiner Anderson, C. Joiner Anderson, Law, P.C., P.O. Box 1488, Lyons, GA 30436, an Answer to the Petition within sixty (60) days of the date of the Order for Publication. The Court has scheduled a hearing in this matter for November 4, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., in the courtroom of the Honorable Robert S. Reeves, located at 25 S Main Street, Swainsboro, GA 30401. If you fail to answer or appear for hearing, judgment may be entered against you, and the Court may grant the relief requested in the Petition. This notice shall be published once a week for four consecutive weeks. This 16th day of September, 2026. Courtney Joiner Anderson Attorney for Petitioner Signed as Officer of the Court

NOTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned has qualified as Executor of the Estate of DELORES BURLESON KIMMER, deceased, late of Stanly County, North Carolina (Stanly County File Number 26E000027-830). This is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said decedent or her estate to present the same duly itemized and verified to the undersigned Executor or her Attorney on or before the 9th day of December 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the decedent or to her estate are hereby requested to pay the said indebtedness to the undersigned Executor or her attorney. This the 4th day of September 2026. CRYSTAL MISENHEIMER EUDY Executor ESTATE OF DELORES BURLESON KIMMER 1911 Midwood Drive, Apt. 1 Albemarle, NC 28001 CHARLES P. BROWN BROWN & SENTER, P.L.L.C. PO Box 400 Albemarle, North Carolina 280020400 Telephone: 704 982-2141 Facsimile: 704 982-0902 PUBLISH: September 9, 16, 23, and 30, 2026

NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF STANLY 26E000213-830 In the Matter of the Estate Of Steven Chase Coleman NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Steven Chase Coleman deceased, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the said decedent to exhibit them to the Stanly County Clerk of Court on or before December 20, 2026 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to said estate are notified to make immediate payment. This the 16th day of September, 2026. Elana Coleman Administrator Brian P. Hayes Attorney Ferguson Hayes Hawkins, PLLC P. O. Box 444 Concord, NC 28026

PUBLIC HEARING The Town of Red Cross will hold a Public Hearing on Monday October 12, 2026 at the Town of Red Cross Town Hall at 7:00 PM. The purpose of this Public Hearing is to hear comments from the public, either for, or against, the adoption of an updated Subdivision Ordinance. Further information is available at the Red Cross Town Hall at 704-485-2002. This message is to be run in the paper on Wednesday September 23 and Wednesday September 30, 2026

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000411-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Co-Administrator of the Estate of Reinhart Koschatzky deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Reinhart Koschatzky to present them to the undersigned on or before December 9, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 9th day of September 2026. Renee Misenheimer 42615 Caudle Road Richfield, NC 28137 Co-Administrator Ryan Koschatzky 1017 Hornbuckle Ct. Wake Forest, NC 27587 Co-Administrator

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000292-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Tammy E. Evans deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Tammy E. Evans to present them to the undersigned on or before December 4, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 2nd day of September 2026. Brianna L. Brown 3310 Dunn Commons Parkway Apt. 201 Charlotte, NC 28216 Executor

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE STANLY COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000368-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Theresa M Cutrone, deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Theresa M Cutrone to present them to the undersigned on or before December 4, 2026, or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 2nd day of September, 2026. Joseph Esposito 47 Church Street, Apt. 2E Malverne, NY 11565 Executor Information John W Webster 146 North 4th Street Albemarle, NC 28001 Attorney Information

Notice of Public Hearing Notice is hereby given that the Town of Norwood Town Council will, on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 6:00 pm, hold a public hearing at the Town Hall located at 212 S. Main St., Norwood, NC, to consider the request for a text amendment to add Short Term Rentals (STR) to the town zoning ordinance. A copy is available to view at town hall. Persons interested in speaking for or against these requests will be heard.

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000394-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administratrix of the Estate of Ricky Dale Lisenby deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Ricky Dale Lisenby to present them to the undersigned on or before December 23, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 23rd day of September 2026. Amanda Lisenby Cranford 6700 Kluttz Road Concord, NC 28025 Administratrix

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000413-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Teressa Strawn Martin deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Teressa Strawn Martin to present them to the undersigned on or before December 23, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 23rd day of September 2026. Rachel Rhodes Perry 5927 Morris Woods Drive Stanfield, NC 28163 Executor

B5

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, September 23, 2026

the stream

RICHARD SHOTWELL / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Chiwetel Ejiofor, left, and Kane Parsons arrive at the premiere of “Backrooms” on May 7 at Aero Theatre in Santa Monica, California.

‘A Different World,’ ‘Toy Story 5,’ Kenny Chesney Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson star in the comedy “Brothers” The Associated Press THE DISNEY+ debut of “Toy Story 5” and a new album from Kenny Chesney are some of the new television shows, 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: the “A Different World” sequel, “Backrooms” and “Silent Hill: Townfall.” MOVIES TO STREAM It might be great or terrible news for parents, depending on their views about screen time and whether movies are an exception, but “Toy Story 5” has finally made its way to Disney+. Appropriately, the film, co-written and directed by Andrew Stanton, pits toys against tech in the battle for Bonnie’s attention. In his review for The Associated Press, film writer Jake Coyle said, “It may fall shy of the first three and probably ranks as the fifth best of these movies. But ‘Toy Story’ has a high bar and the quality and thoughtfulness that have long distinguished Pixar is very much present here in the film.” Even if you didn’t catch “Backrooms” in theaters this summer, you probably heard something about its box-office success and the then-20-year-old YouTuber-turned-filmmaker Kane Parsons behind it. Coyle, in his review, wrote that “where ‘Backrooms’ came from is more interesting — and potentially meaningful — than the result,” calling it “a fitfully unsettling nightmare that never convincingly builds beyond its creepy, dated-decor premise.” It’ll be on HBO Max starting Friday. Leo Woodall plays a piano tuner who gets caught up in the criminal underworld, using his unique ears to crack safes in “Tuner,” a whip-smart, original thriller from Daniel Roher, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind “Navalny.” I called it one of the best of the year so far, and a spiritual descendant of a “Good Will Hunting.” It is streaming on Paramount+. And finally, Jacob Tremblay plays Ted Kaczynski in “Unabomber,” which debuts Fri-

CJ RIVERA / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Singer Kenny Chesney performs on NBC’s “Today” at Rockefeller Plaza on Sept. 17 in New York. His 21st album, “Silver Sands Marina,” drops Friday.

“‘Backrooms’ is a fitfully unsettling nightmare that never convincingly builds beyond its creepy, dated-decor premise.” Jake Coye, AP Film Writer it is not. “Think I’m ‘bout to lose it, I don’t even care no more,” she sings in the song’s chorus. “I’m ‘bout to lose control.” CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Woody Harrelson, left, and Matthew McConaughey pose together at the premiere of the show “Brothers” last Thursday in Los Angeles. day on Netflix. The stacked cast includes Russell Crowe as a psychologist and Shailene Woodley as the FBI agent on the case. MUSIC TO STREAM He’s one of the most consistent giants in country music for a reason. Chesney will release his 21st studio album — you read that correctly — Friday, titled “Silver Sands Marina.” It’s full-throated stadium country, with big hooks and bigger heart. You know, like all the great Chesney records.

Introducing the new Tinashe, unlike the old Tinashe except for the swagger. Her last album, 2024’s “Quantum Baby,” was defined by its viral hit “Nasty.” But she’s not interested in flash-in-the-pan moments. Her latest, “Popstar,” can be described in one word: unexpected. From the sped-up “Melatonin” to the falsetto and Kesha-esque talk-sung chorus of “Too Easy” there is no pop experiment too off-kilter for Tinashe. And the courage pays off. Just don’t call it a complete 180: “Crash Out” is Tinashe at her R&B-pop best, but a love song

SERIES TO STREAM Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson play exaggerated versions of themselves in “Brothers,” an eight-episode comedy from “The Office” alum Lee Eisenberg. After Harrelson’s daughter’s wedding falls apart, he moves his family to McConaughey’s Austin ranch — only for McConaughey’s mother (played by Holland Taylor) to reveal a secret suggesting the lifelong buddies might be brothers. The series marks a rare return to comedy for Harrelson, whose work on the small screen since “Cheers” ended in 1993 has largely been drama, including “True Detective” and “White House Plumbers.” The first two episodes are now streaming on Apple TV. Nearly 40 years after the

original premiered, Netflix revives the beloved HBCU sitcom “A Different World” on Thursday. Maleah Joi Moon plays Deborah Wayne, the daughter of Whitley (Jasmine Guy) and Dwayne (Kadeem Hardison), who is starting her freshman year at their alma mater, Hillman College. Guy, Hardison, Jada Pinkett Smith and other original cast members return for the first season. In “S.W.A.T.: Exiles,” Shemar Moore returns as Sgt. Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson in a spinoff of the CBS procedural, which ended its eight-season run in 2025. Pulled from forced retirement after a mission goes wrong, Hondo takes charge of an experimental S.W.A.T. unit made up of young recruits. Starz has already renewed it for a second season. It premieres Friday. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY In 2019’s “Control,” a government agent explored the inside of a Manhattan skyscraper that had been warped by paranormal forces. Bad news, New Yorkers: In “Control Resonant,” the hostile entities have left the building and are running rampant across the borough. Good news: The agent now on the case has supernatural powers of his own, including the ability to wield a giant Thor-style hammer that shapeshifts into other weapons. Finland’s Remedy Entertainment is best known for its small-town “Alan Wake” thrillers; we’ll see how well the studio can translate that eeriness to the big city. Start spreading the news Thursday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S or PC. One of the all-time great horror series made a spectacular return in 2025 with “Silent Hill f,” which moved the terror from its American roots to 1960s Japan. One year later, the nightmare is spreading to 1990s Scotland in “Silent Hill: Townfall.” This time, a guy named Simon finds himself in a foggy seaside village with no memory of how he got there — though he knows he has been summoned to “put things right.” As usual, you have just a few simple weapons to defend yourself against the zombies and other monsters roaming the streets. The miasma descends Thursday on PlayStation 5 and PC.

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, September 23, 2026

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VOLUME 8 ISSUE 43 | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026

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THE FORSYTH COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

CHUCK BURTON / AP PHOTO

Kickoff Fireworks explode ahead of the Wake Forest and Miami game on Friday at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium in Winston-Salem. The No. 6 Hurricanes topped the Demon Deacons 33-20. Wake travels to No. 16 Louisville on Saturday.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Trump admin to remove 760K Affordable Care Act enrollees over fraud claims Washington, D.C. Vice President JD Vance and White House officials are announcing plans to remove 760,000 Affordable Care Act enrollees from public healthcare exchanges. They allege the individuals were fraudulently enrolled or do not exist. On Tuesday, Vance said this move would save $2.2 billion, ensuring subsidies go to those who need them. The Trump administration is also suspending new brokers from signing up enrollees for six months, citing fraud concerns. As of early 2026, about 19.2 million Americans are enrolled in ACA marketplace plans.

Trump signs U.S.Denmark-Greenland agreement to bolster Arctic security United Nations The United States, Denmark and Greenland have signed an agreement to strengthen security in the Arctic and North Atlantic. President Donald Trump signed the deal Tuesday on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York. Trump earlier announced he planned to bolster the U.S. military presence in Greenland while keeping it under Danish and Greenlandic control. Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire for Greenland to become part of the U.S., ramping up tension.

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Commissioners approve multiple technology contracts The county will begin real-time tracking of its vehicle fleet By Ryan Henkel Twin City Herald WINSTON-SALEM — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners met Sept. 17 for its regular business meeting. The board approved an amendment to its agreement with Duke University in order to reduce the contractual amount of its drone AED research project by around $45,000. The county had originally partnered with Duke in 2024 to support a collaborative research study that was aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of delivering AEDs by

drone in response to 911 calls. The contract was originally set for about $460,000, with two additional amendments made, increasing the funding by around $133,000 in order to expand the study. However, the research was not fully executed by Duke, hence the reduction in requested funding. The board also approved six contractual items: • A three-year, $143,000 contract with Granite Telecommunications for the replacement of old telephone service lines and upgrade to digital communications under one platform for alarm services in county buildings. • A one-year, $141,000 agreement with Information Inc. to provide hosting and mainte-

$879K Approximate total cost of contracts approved by the commissioners

nance services for the iiReception kiosk-based check-in process for Forsyth County Health and Human Services. An interlocal agreement between the county and Winston-Salem Transit Authority for the provision of nonemergency medical-related transportation services for the Department of Social Services.

• A three-year, $206,000 contract with i3 Verticals for website and operating system administration and maintenance for the Register of Deeds to provide online access to public documents. • A contract with the North Carolina Department of Public Safety and Youth Collaborative for the appropriation of $124,000 for youth intensive intervention services. • A three-year, $265,000 contract with Carahsoft Technology Corporation for Motive Technologies for vehicle telematics and an automated vehicle location system to provide the county with real-time vehicle information. The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners will next meet Oct. 1.

Federal Reserve official says fighting inflation likely to be ‘painful’ Supply shocks force the central bank to choose between inflation and employment By Christopher Rugaber The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — A top Federal Reserve official said Monday that the central bank may have to cause economic pain in the form of higher unemployment to combat stubbornly high inflation. Austan Goolsbee, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, said in a speech in London that the Fed is facing a series of persistent supply shocks that have driven up inflation, including higher oil

prices from the Iran war and tariffs. Typically, Goolsbee noted, the central bank would essentially wait for such shocks to fade and inflation to fall on its own rather than raise borrowing costs. But faced with an ongoing series of persistent supply shocks, the Fed now has little choice but to hike rates, Goolsbee said. The increases are needed to lower consumer and business demand to a level consistent with reduced supply, he added, which should bring inflation back to the Fed’s 2% target. “The only way to bring inflation down is to raise rates and narrow the gap between supply See INFLATION, page A2

J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE / AP PHOTO

Austan Goolsbee, left, then-Council of Economic Advisers chairman under President Barack Obama, testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., in February 2013.

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Twin City Herald for Thursday, September 24, 2026

THURSDAY

9.24.26 #419

Raccoon boot camp in Mississippi teaches abandoned kits survival skills Graduating raccoons are released to the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance” By Sophie Bates The Associated Press

“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 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

PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. — Muddy, sweat-soaked and occasionally bloody, the dedicated staff at a Mississippi wildlife center are drill sergeants. And their soldiers? Baby raccoons. Welcome to raccoon boot camp, where the goal is to help sick or injured animals learn to survive in the south Mississippi wilderness — a skill set they would have learned from their mothers, most of whom died or were separated from their kits by storms, traffic incidents or other traumatic events. It’s a challenge that’s left Woodside Wildlife Rescue’s founder, Paula Woodside, with cuts from scared, defensive raccoons and their sharp claws, and when she isn’t able to save a kit, emotional scars too. “When these babies come in and they’re so desperate, it’s heartbreaking,” said Woodside, who most days is covered in sweat from caring for the animals in the Mississippi heat and dirt from curious kits crawling up her legs and onto her shoulders. “It’s really important for them to get a little bit of a head start.” Wildlife rescue staff teach raccoons by example Woodside, a former U.S. merchant mariner, opened the rescue in 2019 after she helped rehabilitate a baby raccoon found aboard her ship. The rescue in the coastal city of Pass Christian typically raises dozens of kits each year, 76 so far this year, alongside other indigenous wildlife. City animal control and citi-

SOPHIE BATES / AP PHOTO

quick enough to snag a snack. A live quail hunt provides hunting experience. While these are skills raccoons would likely learn on their own, Woodside’s staff hopes the training gives the kits a greater chance of survival. On the property’s pond, the raccoons learn to swim, a critical skill in hurricane-prone south Mississippi. The rehabbers take to kayaks and encourage the kits to swim back and forth. They also take trips to the deep woods, where kits learn to run from tree to tree to avoid being seen by birds of prey and to have a quick escape route from snakes or other dangers on the ground.

A raccoon kit digs through water and mud at Woodside Wildlife Rescue in Pass Christian, Mississippi, on Sept. 1.

Raccoons graduate to “Pomp and Circumstance Marches”

zens call Woodside, or the rescue’s director, Raquel Priest, when they find a raccoon in need of saving. Together, they attempt to reunite the kits with their mothers, if they can find them, or bring the kits to the rescue. The youngest raccoons will spend a few weeks mostly indoors being bottle-fed by rehabbers until they’re vaccinated for diseases carried by cat colonies and dogs and are ready to move to outdoor pens. Though the kits stay close to their adoptive human parents, they’re eventually allowed to roam free during the day on the rescue’s rural 20-acre property, a sprawling mix of meadows and thick forest spotted with ponds and a nearby river. Thanks to that setting, Woodside and Priest can take their troops on learning excursions, a luxury many wildlife rescues don’t have, Woodside said. Woodside and Priest teach by example. They hide worms in the dirt to show the kits how to dig for food and break open pine cones or acorns to reveal

For their final lesson, a volunteer — who isn’t Woodside or Priest — traps the raccoons in cages, scaring them enough to encourage them to avoid traps and humans. The experience helps the young raccoons wean themselves from their human rescuers, a process Priest said naturally occurs as they mature. When a group of kits is ready for release, about six months after their rescue, Woodside and Priest host a graduation ceremony. They play Edward Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance Marches” and read a roll call of each graduating kit’s name. A reverend then blesses their journey as they’re released onto a different section of the rescue’s forest-covered property. For kits that die in care, the staff holds a second ceremony to bless and scatter their ashes. “It’s like watching your children leave home,” Priest said. “It’s important to see them prosper and go and be the mischievous creatures they were meant to be.”

“It’s like watching your children leave home. It’s important to see them prosper and go and be the mischievous creatures they were meant to be.” Raquel Priest, director the seeds inside. The raccoons’ eyes light up when they encounter a new tasty food, and they run to show their discovery to their rehabbers before hurrying back to fend off other kits who might try to steal their find. Where a drill sergeant might yell, ‘Attention!’ Priest and Woodside give a shrill trilling sound, mimicking the raccoon call for danger, that sends the kits running up trees to safety. A short whistle lets the troops know the coast is clear. The kits also practice fishing in shallow pools, their uncoordinated paws tentatively patting the water until they’re

Patrick Clancy gives first TV interview on ‘60 Minutes’ after Lindsay Clancy mistrial One juror blocked acquittal as 11 others believed postpartum psychosis was responsible By Kimberlee Kruesi The Associated Press

Share with your community! Send us your births, deaths, marriages, graduations and other announcements: forsythcommunity@ northstatejournal.com Weekly deadline is Monday at noon

LINDSAY CLANCY’S former husband said he forgave her for killing their three young children in his first televised interview Sunday on CBS News’ “60 Minutes” since a jury deadlocked in her trial for the children’s deaths. Patrick Clancy talked about his grief, saying he battled suicidal thoughts after the killings and experienced a panic attack while testifying at Lindsay Clancy’s trial when attorneys played to jurors his 911 call to report the children’s deaths. At trial, the anguished 911 call included Patrick howling and crying after he discovered the bodies of his children in the family’s basement as a confused dispatcher repeatedly asked what happened. Earlier this month, 11 of 12 jurors were ready to clear

INFLATION from page B1 and demand,” he said in a written copy of his remarks. “Forcing inflation back to target in the short run means pushing employment below target. ... In the short run, supply shocks force a difficult trade-off” between the Fed’s goals of low inflation and maximum employment. “It’s going to be painful,” Goolsbee said later to reporters. “It would necessarily be painful.”

Patrick Clancy also said his youngest son, Callan, didn’t die immediately that fatal day on Jan. 24, 2023, but lived four more days before dying in his arms. While holding his

Clancy said stress from the murders and trial took a toll. “There was a time I didn’t think I would live to see my 35th birthday, and I was completely fine with it,” he said. He also addressed social media conspiracy theories surrounding the case, which have included unfounded claims he was connected to the death of his children. “It’s deeply harmful to the legacy of my children,” Patrick Clancy said. “It is a huge distraction from what really matters here, which is perinatal mental health.”

His new wife, Dr. Rachel Danis, joined him in the interview, describing Patrick Clancy as the “most selfless and supportive partner.” “I don’t understand how the story has been so twisted,” she said. “I was just a girl that met a guy running in Central Park on a really cold Saturday. And I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that.” In the interview, Patrick Clancy was asked if he’s angry with himself or felt like he failed in some way. “I think I did the best I could with what I had at the time,” Clancy said. “And I live with the outcome. I live with it every day.” During the trial, neither side disputed that Clancy strangled her children in the family’s home before trying to end her own life. But her attorney said she was a loving mother experiencing deep delusions and other mental health problems, for which she had been getting treatment. The Plymouth County district attorney has yet to say whether he’ll seek to put Clancy on trial again.

Goolsbee’s comments contradict Fed Chairman Kevin Warsh’s remarks last Wednesday at a news conference that took place after the Fed lifted its key interest rate for the first time in three years to about 3.9%. “I don’t believe that we need to do harm to the labor markets to achieve our objective,” Warsh said last week. The Fed generally fights inflation by raising interest rates to cool borrowing and spending. Historically, such

rate hikes have often slowed growth and have even led to recessions. Yet in 2022-23, the Fed sharply raised interest rates and inflation did decline, without a significant rise in unemployment or economic slowdown. Goolsbee also suggested while speaking with reporters that the Fed may need to implement more than just the one additional rate hike later this year that policymakers, as a group, forecast last week.

There are signs that surging investment in data centers for AI is also pushing up inflation, he said, suggesting that strong demand is playing a role, as well as the supply shock from oil. If inflation mostly comes from supply shocks, then just one more rate hike could be sufficient, Goolsbee told reporters. “And if we get evidence that convinces us that it’s coming from demand, then it likely would not be enough,” he said.

“There was a time I didn’t think I would live to see my 35th birthday, and I was completely fine with it.” Patrick Clancy Lindsay Clancy of criminal responsibility, with the majority feeling that the Massachusetts mom was in the grip of a rare condition called postpartum psychosis when she strangled her kids in 2023. But a lone juror sided with prosecutors, who had argued that Clancy knew what she was doing. The deadlock forced a judge to declare a mistrial Sept. 4. Clancy says 8-month-old son died in his arms

8-month-old son, he said he typed with one hand tributes to his other children, Cora, 5, and Dawson, 2, and also forgave his wife. “I saw headlines that say ‘killer mom’ and ‘baby murderer monster,’ and none of them were accurate,” he said. “I believed that it was her mental illness that caused that.” Clancy says conspiracy theories distract from main concern of perinatal mental health

Twin City Herald for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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

VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | SUSAN MILLS

Get to know the real Michael Whatley Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics.

I HAVE KEPT SILENT hoping people will educate themselves before voting, but I still see fellow Republicans trying to tear down a good person. I was elected NCGOP vice chair to serve with Michael Whatley. I worked with him closely for over three years. He is a man of faith, family and freedom. He loves his beautiful family and would never put his children in harm’s way by “hiring” a person that preys on children. He did not hire Harvey West. Harvey was elected by his constituents in the 1st District. Harvey was already a member of the Plan of Organization Committee when Whatley became chair of the NCGOP. Many people are kept on committees to allow their knowledge of how the committee works to be passed down to new members. There was nothing strange about keeping Harvey on that committee. Look at organizations in your community, state and country. Do you throw out all their institutional knowledge to bring on someone that is new and has no idea of where to begin?

Whatley is a man of faith. We started each meeting, event, dinner with a prayer. He is a God-fearing person. He always wanted to do what was right, and he did. No one is perfect, so stop looking for perfection in anyone! Whatley loves the people of North Carolina and of this great country. I have seen it firsthand. He doesn’t put himself first. It’s the folks of N.C. who he put first and always will. He is a man of his word and not a person that lies. We need Whatley in the U.S. Senate. Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics — the Democratic candidate did that! As a person that has worked closely with him and considers him a close friend, I ask you to vote for Michael Whatley for U.S. Senate! Susan Mills is a public high school teacher who lives in Fayetteville.

COLUMN | DANIEL MCCARTHY

The immigration politics of a felon’s pardon “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that.

HOW FAR will New York Gov. Kathy Hochul go to keep immigrant criminals in this country? So far, she’ll even pardon a man convicted of an aggravated felony if that’s what it takes to prevent the United States Supreme Court from setting a restrictionist precedent. Keisy Guerrero Mariano is a Dominican who spent two years in prison for committing a violent crime: second-degree assault. Mariano, known as “G.M.” in court documents, is exactly the sort of lawbreaker Americans overwhelmingly want to see deported. But not Hochul — she granted him clemency Aug. 28. His case stood out from those of the other five people she pardoned that day: The others were nonviolent offenders who’d committed their crimes decades ago: two in the 1980s, two in the ’90s, and just one as recently as 2007. G.M. was convicted in 2015. The governor decided he merited special leniency, for political reasons. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested G.M. in 2020, intending to deport him based on his criminal record. ICE had to let him go in 2022, however, because of a nationwide injunction related to COVID-19 that required the agency to review custody of individuals with certain medical conditions. While ICE had him, though, G.M.’s lawyers challenged the agency’s right to hold him for a prolonged time without a bond hearing. That’s what Hochul’s pardon is really about — the Trump administration planned to make the Dominican’s appeals a test case before the U.S. Supreme Court, one likely to establish that G.M. and others like him are not entitled to a bond hearing. Bond hearings are an easily exploited weakness in America’s immigration security, not only protracting the legal process of deporting lawbreakers but also giving them an opportunity to get out of detention temporarily — and then permanently fail to show up when they’re due for their next hearing. G.M. came to this country legally in 2011, but he forfeited any right to remain here once he committed a felony. Only now Hochul has nullified his conviction to undercut

ICE’s grounds for removing him and collapse the appeals process that was leading to the Supreme Court — and to a probable defeat for those who want to make deportation as difficult as possible. The governor isn’t looking out for New Yorkers here: Her maneuver is about liberal politicians’ zeal for maximum immigration, even when it means letting violent criminals remain in our communities. This is the second lucky break Hochul’s side has had recently. The other test case the Trump administration had teed up, involving a Jamaican national convicted (also in New York) of sexually abusing a child under the age of 11, has been taken out of the courts as well after the offender left the country and filed a court declaration saying he would not be coming back to America. Self-deportation is one way to get immigrants convicted of heinous crimes out of here. But ICE can’t deport someone who has already deported himself, so his claim of a right to a bond hearing is now completely moot. The big question still has to be answered, though: Can immigration enforcement detain these violent perps and sex offenders until they can be tossed out? Or if they’ve been in custody for a while, are they entitled to bond hearings that will further delay their removal — and give them the chance to escape back into Americans’ neighborhoods? Solicitor General John Sauer says he’s not going to let Hochul’s gambit succeed. G.M.’s case may have been pulled, but Sauer aims to find another that will bring the fight to the Supreme Court. “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that — even a legal immigrant who commits a serious offense ought to be expelled promptly, and he shouldn’t get the benefit of a bond hearing just because his case takes longer than it should and he winds up in “prolonged” detention. He shouldn’t get the benefit of a liberal governor’s partisan machinations either. New Yorkers — American citizens — elected Hochul, and she should put them first, not foreigners who commit crimes while they’re here, legally or otherwise. Daniel McCarthy is the editor of Modern Age: A Conservative Review. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

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Twin City Herald for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Rising gas prices frustrate voters; Trump says it’s ‘inexpensive price to pay’ for Iran war The frustration spans party lines and could hurt Republicans in midterm voting

A customer checks gas price while he fills up his vehicle’s tank at a gas station, in Streamwood, Illinois, on Sept. 16.

it feels like he’s not even connected to his own people.” Bivins, who described herself as an independent, said she’s eager to support Democrats this fall — especially the party’s emerging democratic socialist wing. At a gas station in Lansing, Michigan, Rina Risper spent $50 on eight gallons of premium gas. “When I rolled up I was in shock, actually, and said, ‘Well, maybe I should drink water instead of having that $4.99 bottle of whatever it was I was gonna get,’” Risper said. She thinks Trump’s tariffs will make affordability even worse. “We’re not in Miami. We’re in Lansing, Michigan,” she said. “It’s really going to impact our people.”

bucks at the pump?” she said. “Make it make sense.” More than 1,500 miles to the north in central Michigan, 35-year-old Garth Johnson is trying to make ends meet running a deep-cleaning business with several gas-powered vehicles and one machine fueled by diesel, which was $6.79 a gallon as he filled up his SUV. Johnson voted for Trump, but doesn’t know what he’s going to do in November. Johnson doesn’t feel qualified to second-guess the president’s evaluation of the war, but he’s feeling financial pressure in his own life. “I like a lot of the things he’s done,” Johnson said but added, “I’m a little guy, and I’ve got to live my life.”

Most voters think Trump’s administration has made economy worse, poll shows

By Steve Peoples, Jesse Bedayn and Jonathan J. Cooper The Associated Press EDINBURG, Texas — Quinten Martinez, pumping gas under a hot South Texas sun, remembers a time when fueling up didn’t require difficult decisions. “Is it going to be groceries this week?” asked the 28-year-old Amazon delivery driver as he watched the numbers tick higher. “Is it gonna be getting gas in our tank to go to work?” He shook his head when asked about President Donald Trump’s assertion last week that higher gas prices are a small price to pay for the war with Iran. “I don’t feel like it’s a good trade-off,” Martinez said. “I don’t feel like this is good for anyone.” Voters across the country, and across the political spectrum, tend to agree. Interviews with voters in several states, along with a fresh round of national polling, reveal an overwhelming sense of frustration that skyrocketing gas prices — a direct result of Trump’s war — are creating serious and sustained financial hardships for America’s working class. The acute concerns are adding to a bad political environment that may be worsening for Trump and his Republican Party as early voting gets underway in the November midterm elections. Historically, the party holding the White House has suffered major losses in midterms. Today, seven weeks before Election Day, Republican candidates at all levels are struggling with the additional burden of Trump’s weak approval ratings, an unpopular foreign conflict and an affordability crisis that Trump and his congressional allies had promised to fix. But when Trump campaigned in Gastonia last Wednesday, he played down the impact of surging gas prices. “You have a little higher. It’s a very inexpensive price to pay for what we’ve done,” Trump said of the war, which he describes as critical to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. “Remember that. It’s a little more. Frankly, even if it was a lot more.”

NAM Y. HUH / AP PHOTO

“Gas prices matter because they’re one of the few economic indicators voters experience and see in real time. The price is literally staring them in the face several times a week.” Chris Wilson, Republican strategist “Gas prices matter,” Republican strategist says Despite what Trump says, there are few things that may matter more this election year than the price of a gallon of gasoline, according to political operatives in both parties. Gas prices are moving sharply in the wrong direction at a time of year when drivers typically get some relief. The national average for a gallon of gas reached $4.48 last Friday, according to AAA, up roughly 17 cents over the last week, 40 cents in a month and $1.27 from a year ago. “Gas prices matter because they’re one of the few economic indicators voters experience and see in real time,” said veteran Republican strategist Chris Wilson. “The price is literally staring them in the face several times a week. So I wouldn’t minimize the frustration we’re seeing, particularly among working- and middle-class voters.” Interviews with voters this week found bipartisan frustration and disappointment. Democrats and indepen-

dents were especially motivated to punish Republicans at the ballot box for their economic hardship, while some of Trump’s working-class supporters pledged to support Republicans this fall, even if they weren’t happy with the president’s leadership on the economy. Some Republicans say they’re disappointed Dan Lloyd, who voted for Trump, lamented the president’s leadership as the 63-year-old carpenter paid $4.39 a gallon to fill up his pickup truck in Mesa, Arizona. “He hurt himself stepping into this,” Lloyd said of Trump. “Where’s all this oil from Venezuela? I thought we were flush with gas and everything, but no. The American people eat it every time, whether it’s interest rates, food, gasoline.” Still, he expects to vote Republican in the midterms. “I think the Democratic Party has lost its way,” Lloyd said. “I just feel like the whole system’s on the verge of collapse.” In sweltering Edinburg, Texas, 52-year-old Kristin Jimenez shrugged off the rising price of gas after filling up her Mercedes. “We’ve paid the same price under Republican presidents, we’ve paid this price under Democrat presidents,” said Jimenez, a mother who runs a small business. She plans to vote for a Republican because they’re the “lesser of two evils.” She said gas prices aren’t part of her calculation. “We don’t mind paying $8 for a cup of coffee at Starbucks, but we have a problem paying four

Other voters not so forgiving Midterm voting was already underway last Friday in Virginia, where 60-year-old engineer Alan Johnson said Trump seems to have “no empathy” for Americans who are struggling financially. “With the gas prices being what they are and continuing to grow, we’ve got to do something. Hopefully the Democrats can get into office and turn the ship around,” said Johnson, who cast ballots in the morning for Democrats for the U.S. Senate and U.S. House. In Raleigh, teacher Brittney Bivins sees surging gas prices as evidence that Trump and his Republican Party aren’t dealing with the issues that matter most to people like her. “He really doesn’t care about everyday people,” the 45-year-old said. “He can afford the gas, but most of us can’t. So

Up to 30 shots fired after man opened fire on officer outside Ontario synagogue The officer was seriously wounded, but his quick response protected those inside

“If this officer wasn’t there, I don’t know what could have happened.”

The Associated Press BELLEVILLE, Ontario — A 29-year-old man armed with a shotgun opened fire on a police officer stationed outside an Ontario synagogue during Yom Kippur, triggering a shootout involving as many as 30 shots, the province’s police watchdog said Monday. The gunfire left the man with life-threatening injuries and seriously wounded a veteran of the Belleville Police Service, whose condition had stabilized as he recovered in intensive care. Kristy Denette, a spokesperson for the Special Investigations Unit, said nearby vehicles and homes were riddled with bullet holes. There was no forensic confirmation Monday as to whether the synagogue itself was hit. Denette said the scene appeared to stretch about half a block from the Sons of Jacob Synagogue. “It would have been quite, quite the scene indeed,” Denette said.

Douglas Lobel, synagogue attendee

IAN MACALPINE / THE CANADIAN PRESS VIA AP

Police officers walk in front of the Son of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, on Monday. The Special Investigations Unit said preliminary evidence showed the man arrived in a truck around 7 p.m. on Sunday and fired at an officer outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, about 110 miles east of Toronto. The officer returned fire before a second officer arrived and also fired. Belleville police Deputy Chief

Sheri Meeks identified the alleged shooter as Sean Ward, of the nearby city of Quinte West, and the officer as Const. Jeff Smith, a 13-year veteran of the force. About two dozen people were inside the synagogue when gunfire erupted. One of them, Douglas Lobel, said it lasted two or three minutes

and “seemed like an eternity.” Lobel said a police officer eventually entered the synagogue and asked whether anyone had been hurt. No one inside was injured. “This officer was a hero who saved our lives,” Lobel said. “If this officer wasn’t there, I don’t know what could have happened.” Police have not established a motive or said whether the Sons of Jacob Synagogue or the Jewish community was targeted. The SIU is investigating the actions of the officers, while Belleville police are conducting a parallel criminal investigation that will examine the man’s actions and possible motive. Meeks said the wounded officer faced “a significant road to recovery.” Meeks acknowledged the shooting’s impact on Belleville’s Jewish community, particular-

Nationwide, more than three times as many voters say they are falling behind financially as getting ahead, according to a Fox News survey released Wednesday. By a 15% margin, Democrats are considered the party that would better handle inflation and prices at a time when the cost of living and the economy are voters’ top concerns. The Fox poll found that 61% of voters say gas prices are a major problem for their household, compared with 48% two years ago, while 52% say the same for healthcare costs, compared with 44% in 2024. Majorities also view housing costs and grocery prices as major problems, although neither has increased. Overall, nearly two-thirds of voters (63%) say the administration has made the economy worse, compared with 52% in September 2025, including one-quarter of Republicans. Only 46% of Republicans say the administration has improved the economy, while about one-quarter don’t see an impact. Back in rural South Texas, an area where Trump’s GOP made gains in recent elections, Martinez, the Amazon delivery driver, could not contain his frustration. Trump “likes to tout that we are the best economy in the world,” said Martinez, but in more rural towns, “you don’t see any of the winning, you don’t see any of the ups that he’s talking about.” “You just see struggles for day-to-day life,” he said.

ly because it happened outside the synagogue during Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar. “Antisemitism, hate and violence have no place in our community,” Meeks said. “Every person deserves to feel safe when attending a place of worship.” The synagogue canceled its remaining Yom Kippur services following the shooting. Police increased patrols and their presence around places of worship but said there was no ongoing threat to public safety. Belleville Mayor Neil Ellis said it was too soon to say whether the shooting was a hate crime but said “the circumstances are where it happened, when it happened” and that it “points towards that.” “We have a tight-knit Jewish community. We don’t tolerate this in our city or across the country,” Ellis said. “Everyone has the right to feel safe.” Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the shooting in a social media post, saying, “Jewish people must be able to worship safely” and “live free, open, proud Jewish lives.” He said the federal government would support law enforcement in ensuring the perpetrator is held accountable. The shooting comes months after Carney warned that Canada was failing its Jewish community amid a surge in antisemitism. Carney cited shootings at Jewish schools, firebombings of synagogues and attacks on community centers and Jewish-owned businesses.

Forsyth SPORTS Sanchez eyes NWSL record in career season with North Carolina The Courage midfielder looks to score 20 goals By Drew Renner The Associated Press ASHLEY SANCHEZ entered the season with a number in mind. Nineteen goals later, the finish line keeps moving. First, the North Carolina Courage midfielder wanted 10 goals. Then 15. Now, after setting the National Women’s Soccer League single-season scoring record for an American player, Sanchez has settled on another number — and another record to break. “What’s funny was, I did have a goal, and then it just kept moving,” Sanchez said. “Now, I guess it’s just 20.” Sanchez’s latest goal, a curling strike into the top right corner in the 82nd minute against the San Diego Wave on Saturday, moved her within one of Temwa Chawinga’s NWSL single-season record of 20 in 2024. It came after Sanchez scored a hat trick in a 6-0 win over the Chicago Stars, earning her the third NWSL Player of the Week honor this season. For the 27-year-old, this kind of scoring output would have seemed unlikely a year ago. Sanchez scored five goals in 2024 and two last season. Before this year, she had never recorded a professional brace. Now, she has five multi-goal games, including her first career hat trick, and is the runaway leader in the NWSL’s Golden Boot race with six games left for the Courage in the regular season. “This is my first year playing this position,” Sanchez said. “I do think that I could do even more.” The move out wide had an early believer. Sanchez said her

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Jailyn Moore

MARK ZALESKI / AP PHOTO

U.S. midfielder Ashley Sanchez (2) kicks the ball away from Japan midfielder Fuka Nagano (8). fiancé, former professional soccer player Tommy Williamson, was one of the first people to see her potential as a winger. The two trained together, working specifically on the position long before the flurry of goals. “He was like, ‘Oh, I think this would be really good for you in this spot. Let’s get some reps here,’” Sanchez said. Courage coach Mak Lind said the goals are the result of qualities Sanchez already possessed. “She has herself to thank,” Lind said. “The only thing I’ve been doing, together with the coaching side, is to make sure she understands her potential.” As Sanchez has found a new rhythm on the field, she has also found more balance away from it. Sanchez said she used to be “lazy” when she came home from training, but getting a second dog about a year and a half ago changed her routine. Benny, an energetic yellow Labrador, joined her French bulldog, Nala, and made sitting around less of an option. Sanchez now takes them to the park nearly every day. Those trips have become a way to slow

down, spend time in nature and ground. “This job is a lot, and it’s chaotic,” Sanchez said. “I try to calm myself.” On the pitch, opponents are paying increasingly close attention. Ahead of Saturday’s match, Sanchez said one of San Diego’s “Keys of the Game” caught her eye: “Silent Sanchez.” That level of attention is unfamiliar, even for a player who made her senior U.S. national team debut in 2021 and went to the 2023 World Cup. Sanchez has 28 international appearances but has not been called into a U.S. camp since January 2025. She said this season has not been about proving anything. “I’ve just been really enjoying this season,” Sanchez said, “and I feel like I’m showing the joy that I’m having with the things that I’ve been able to do on the field.” Even as the attention around Sanchez grows, Lind said her approach has stayed the same. “It’s easy to get hyped when you hear people talk about you, but she’s so humble in what she does,” Lind said. “So that makes me believe that she’s not done with scoring goals.”

COURTESY @JAILYNMOORE9 / X

West Forsyth, football Jailyn Moore is a senior wide receiver for the West Forsyth football team. He also plays baseball and runs track for the Titans. Moore is a three-star college recruit with scholarship offers from Virginia Tech, Louisville and NC State, among other schools. He has excelled for 4-1 West Forsyth this season. In last week’s win over Richmond, he had seven catches for 118 yards and a touchdown. For the season, his nine touchdowns and 503 yards both lead the Central Piedmont 7A/8A conference and rank in the top five in North Carolina Class 8A.

Logano claims Cup playoff victory at Bristol Carson Hocevar and Ryan Blaney fought afterward The Associated Press BRISTOL, Tenn. — Joey Logano won the Cup Series race Saturday at Bristol Motor Speedway, while the driver he passed for the win stole the show with old-school NASCAR feuding and fisticuffs. Carson Hocevar, a brash 23-year-old who has earned the ire of veterans with his aggressive driving, traded punches in the pits with Ryan Blaney after they were involved in an incident while racing for second with 41 laps left. Hocevar stopped his car after finishing third and was

greeted by a shove from Blaney. The 6-foot-4 Hocevar, who stands several inches taller than Blaney, responded with two overhand rights. The first knocked off Blaney’s hat, and the second connected with Blaney’s left cheek. Blaney fell to the pavement and then scrambled to his feet and out of a crew member’s hold while Hocevar raised his arms and pointed at him. Blaney charged and threw a wild left that knocked off Hocevar’s hat. They then were separated by team members as Blaney continued to yell at Hocevar. “There wasn’t a whole lot of talking,” Hocevar said. “He just kind of said one thing and then went after me, and I wasn’t going to take it. I got ran into a lot for the win. That was for second, and he wants to come fight. They got

“There wasn’t a whole lot of talking,” Carson Hocevar an old-school Bristol show here.” The contact between the drivers started shortly after Blaney took second with an outside pass of Hocevar, who immediately slid his No. 77 Chevrolet down the track. Blaney moved low to block, and Hocevar stayed in the accelerator to knock the No. 12 Ford into a spin that ended in the inside wall. “I don’t know what I did wrong there,” Hocevar said. “I crossed him over and looked like he spun himself, and then he wants to instigate a fight. I was going to fin-

ish that, and it seemed like the crowd was pretty pumped up, so I was going to play the audience for a second.” Blaney, who led a race-high 202 laps despite starting 29th, was already frustrated after falling into heavy traffic because of a penalty for a pit lane violation with just over 100 laps remaining. His rally was cut short by the crash that dropped him to sixth in the Chase standings with his second consecutive finish outside the top 30. In an interview during the race, Blaney said, “I tried to protect the bottom, he crossed and never lifted, and I got crashed.” When asked which driver was at fault, Blaney said, “I don’t (expletive) know. Each person is going to say they did nothing wrong.”

Kyle Larson finished second to move into the Chase lead by a point over Denny Hamlin. Christopher Bell was fourth, followed by Ty Gibbs, who led 120 laps before finishing fifth. Gibbs and Hocevar exchanged the lead four times in the final 100 laps. Their battle for first after a restart with nine laps remaining opened the door for Logano, who zipped past Hocevar and led the final seven laps. With his 40th career victory and third this season, Logano became the winningest Cup Series driver for Team Penske and moved into third place in the Chase points standings. But he realized all of those accomplishments would be eclipsed by videos of the Blaney-Hocevar fight that he still had yet to see. “I’m sure I’ll see it all week long,” Logano said, pausing to add with a laugh. “They’ll probably forget who won the race.”

WADE PAYNE / AP PHOTO

Ty Gibbs (54) leads Carson Hocevar (77), Kyle Larson (5) and Ryan Blaney (12) during Saturday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Bristol.

B2 SIDELINE REPORT NFL

NFL says teams can’t sign Harris, Wright after attempts to play for LSU New York The NFL has sent a memo to each of its teams saying Zxavian Harris and Dae’Quan Wright are not eligible to join any NFL teams this season after they attempted to return to college and play for LSU. Harris and Wright both played for Mississippi last season and had tryouts in the NFL this summer after going undrafted. They then tried joining former Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin at LSU and sued for the right to regain their college eligibility. LSU left both players off its roster as it opened its season.

MLB

Paralyzed A’s minor leaguer Lasko leaves hospital West Orange, N.J. Ryan Lasko, a minor league prospect with the Athletics who was paralyzed in an outfield collision more than two months ago, was released from an in-patient rehabilitation hospital to continue his recovery from home. The 24-year-old Lasko was released exactly two months after arriving at the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in New Jersey. It’s about 35 miles from where he attended college at Rutgers and became a second-round draft pick by the A’s in 2023.

Twin City Herald for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Avs’ 41-year-old defenseman Burns trimmed beard, not ambition The former Hurricane enters 23rd season

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Brent Burns smiles at his teammates at the end of a game in March.

By Pat Graham The Associated Press ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The famed bushy beard of Brent Burns was neatly groomed. His hair, too. When he smiled, front teeth gleamed in the gap where he once had none. It’s a fresh look as the 41-year-old Colorado Avalanche defenseman embarks on his 23rd NHL season. But he’s still the colorful character they refer to as “Burnsy,” the one who’s still up for the grind as he chases his first Stanley Cup title. The one who took a young player under his wing this summer and invited him into his house. The one who doesn’t focus on the possibility of breaking the league’s all-time ironman streak, which, health willing, could happen in February. “I’m trying to figure out what stick I’m going to use tomorrow, what I’m going to eat tonight,” said Burns, who has played in 1,007 straight regular-season games and sits 57 away from tying the mark of Phil Kessel. “I don’t really think about all the other stuff.” Retirement didn’t even really cross his mind after the Avalanche were swept by Vegas in the Western Conference final. He signed another one-year deal in late June and was right back to training. His superpower, according to teammate Brock Nelson, is his ability to stay young at heart. “I don’t think he strikes anybody as a 41-year-old. He still seems like an 18-, 19-year-old

ERIN HOOLEY / AP PHOTO

kid,” the 34-year-old Nelson said. “Just having fun, always laughing and having a good time.” Chasing Kessel’s ironman streak Kessel’s consecutive games streak stands at 1,064 and took place from Nov. 3, 2009, to April 13, 2023. Should Burns remain in the lineup, he could tie the mark Feb. 13 at Tampa Bay and break it two days later in front of the home crowd against Columbus. “I’m not going to be the guy that breaks that streak,” Avs coach Jared Bednar said. “I’ve got way too much respect for him, for what he’s done in his career, and for what he’s doing for us on a daily basis. He’s proven to me that he deserves to be in our lineup. I’m hoping that he can stay healthy and get it. I wish him the best of luck, and I just hope his health holds up.”

“Just trying to stay afloat most of the time — and figure out what’s for dinner.” Brent Burns Bednar added that Burns returned this season in “phenomenal condition.” “It’s not just the beard that’s making him look younger — or lack of a beard — I think he’s in great condition.” But there’s another factor that goes into keeping the streak going: good fortune. That’s why he doesn’t fret about it. “There’s just too much that can happen,” said Burns, whose streak began on Nov. 21, 2013, while with San Jose. “If you start thinking about that, (expletive) will happen. I’m not really lying, I don’t really think about it.

“Just trying to stay afloat most of the time — and figure out what’s for dinner.” A long season He embraces the grind of a long season, which he still relishes. “I must,” he said, referring to his longevity. As for his groomed beard, he said, “it’s a little different, for sure.” But he found an advantage: The trim makes him more aerodynamic on the ice to keep up with the youngsters. “You’ve got to enjoy the fun things, the (expletive) things, the mundane things,” Burns said. “You’ve got to enjoy being at the rink. It’s not easy. It’s not all great. Some hard days, hard work. But I think when you’re with a group that loves to work and we just naturally have fun doing it, it definitely helps, too. “I think that’s an important part, just to enjoy that process.”

NBA

Knicks star Brunson to make appearance on “Law & Order: SVU” New York New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson will make a guest-starring appearance on “Law & Order: SVU” this fall. NBC announced Brunson will appear in the season’s fifth episode, which is scheduled to air Nov. 5. Details on Brunson’s exact role weren’t revealed. Brunson already is set to host the season premiere of “Saturday Night Live” on Sept. 26. He made an appearance in the opening of the Emmy Awards telecast that was hosted by “Law & Order: SVU” star Mariska Hargitay.

NCAA FOOTBALL

CFP clarifies how committee can respond to Michigan-WMU result The College Football Playoff says it can’t change the outcome of any games played during the regular season but notes that its selection committee relies on various measures beyond wins and losses. The CFP statement follows the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision Oversight Committee’s announcement that it also doesn’t have the authority to overturn the result of No. 19 Michigan’s controversial 13-12 victory over Western Michigan. The CFP notes that its selection committee “evaluates all teams on a comprehensive body of work over a full season, driven by how teams perform in each game.”

Wide receiver Coker thriving in Carolina while first-round pick Legette struggles The Holy Cross product has developed into an NFL starter By Steve Reed The Associated Press CHARLOTTE — Wide receiver Jalen Coker, an undrafted rookie in 2024, is thriving with the Carolina Panthers. The same can’t be said for the team’s first-round draft pick that year, Xavier Legette. Legette finds himself firmly behind Coker on the depth chart — and the gap only seems to be widening. Coker, who took over Carolina’s No. 2 wide receiver spot opposite Tetairoa McMillan late last season, turned in an eye-catching performance to open the season with eight catches for a career-high 138 yards and two touchdowns last weekend against the Bears. That came after he hauled in nine passes for 134 yards and a touchdown in last year’s wild-card playoff game against the Rams. “The NFL has no respect for rounds,” Panthers coach Dave Canales said of the NFL Draft. Canales points to the 2014 Seattle Seahawks, a team he worked for as an assistant coach. The Seahawks reached the Super Bowl with mostly undrafted wide receivers on their roster. “They were tough guys who cared, and were intentional about their work. They made plays when the plays came to them,” Canales said. “And it’s as simple as that. ... For all of these guys on our team, when the quarterback gives you an opportunity, make the play. He will come back to you again.” Bryce Young has learned he can trust Coker to catch the ball, and he keeps going back to him. Over the last 12 games, Young has thrown 62 balls to Coker and he’s caught 81% of them. Coker first turned heads

SCOTT KINSER / AP PHOTO

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Jalen Coker makes a catch to score a touchdown against the Bears. in Carolina in a 2024 game against Denver, when he made a difficult leaping catch along the sideline just weeks after being promoted from the practice squad. “At that time, he still didn’t have a full grasp for what our system was,” Canales said. “All he knew was he had a one-on-one opportunity, go get the ball. Jalen has got that type of gamesmanship. If you talk to him, he’s the nicest kid in the world. When he gets between the lines, it’s a different animal.” Part of that mentality comes from his desire to prove to the league that he belongs. Coker wasn’t highly recruited out of high school — he had average speed — and wound up at Holy Cross. He put up big numbers his first two seasons and had some opportunities to transfer and play for bigger schools. But he kept a promise to his mother and stayed in Worcester, Massachusetts. “I just remember my mom

told me, ‘If you commit here, you’re committing to go here for all four years — no transferring, none of that stuff,’” Coker said. “So I said, ‘OK, I made a commitment. I’m sticking to it.’” Coker missed the first third of the 2025 season with a quad injury, and slowly saw more playing time as the season went on. He finished the regular season with 33 catches for 394 yards and three touchdowns. That, along with the big performance in the playoff game, persuaded the Panthers to give him a three-year, $35 million contract extension this offseason — a deal that could end up being a huge bargain for the Panthers if he continues to produce like he has the last two games. The rest of the league seems to be taking notice of No. 18. Falcons cornerback Jessie Bates III said before Atlanta’s game Sunday against the Panthers that the Falcons can’t focus all of their attention on McMillan, last season’s

Offensive Rookie of the Year. Coker can beat them too. “I think he’s just someone that Bryce has created some chemistry with and someone that he really trusts,” Bates said. “He can give him a chance, 50-50 balls. He can really trust that dude to go make some plays for him. So I just think that he’s a really good receiver. It’ll be another draft that doesn’t explain what type of player he is.” Coker said success came quickly for him last season, but added that he approached this offseason needing to improve on “everything.” “I just want to continue to elevate what I did last year and just make it just a little bit better,” Coker said. “Work on run after the catch. I have a few passes in the playoff game in particular that I want back. There were plays I could have been better, just cleaner.” Coker added: “I still have a ton of work to do. By no means have I arrived or anything like that.”

B3

Twin City Herald for Thursday, September 24, 2026

the stream

RICHARD SHOTWELL / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Chiwetel Ejiofor, left, and Kane Parsons arrive at the premiere of “Backrooms” on May 7 at Aero Theatre in Santa Monica, California.

‘A Different World,’ ‘Toy Story 5,’ Kenny Chesney Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson star in the comedy “Brothers” The Associated Press THE DISNEY+ debut of “Toy Story 5” and a new album from Kenny Chesney are some of the new television shows, 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: the “A Different World” sequel, “Backrooms” and “Silent Hill: Townfall.” MOVIES TO STREAM It might be great or terrible news for parents, depending on their views about screen time and whether movies are an exception, but “Toy Story 5” has finally made its way to Disney+. Appropriately, the film, co-written and directed by Andrew Stanton, pits toys against tech in the battle for Bonnie’s attention. In his review for The Associated Press, film writer Jake Coyle said, “It may fall shy of the first three and probably ranks as the fifth best of these movies. But ‘Toy Story’ has a high bar and the quality and thoughtfulness that have long distinguished Pixar is very much present here in the film.” Even if you didn’t catch “Backrooms” in theaters this summer, you probably heard something about its box-office success and the then-20-year-old YouTuber-turned-filmmaker Kane Parsons behind it. Coyle, in his review, wrote that “where ‘Backrooms’ came from is more interesting — and potentially meaningful — than the result,” calling it “a fitfully unsettling nightmare that never convincingly builds beyond its creepy, dated-decor premise.” It’ll be on HBO Max starting Friday. Leo Woodall plays a piano tuner who gets caught up in the criminal underworld, using his unique ears to crack safes in “Tuner,” a whip-smart, original thriller from Daniel Roher, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind “Navalny.” I called it one of the best of the year so far, and a spiritual descendant of a “Good Will Hunting.” It is streaming on Paramount+. And finally, Jacob Tremblay plays Ted Kaczynski in “Unabomber,” which debuts Fri-

CJ RIVERA / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Singer Kenny Chesney performs on NBC’s “Today” at Rockefeller Plaza on Sept. 17 in New York. His 21st album, “Silver Sands Marina,” drops Friday.

“‘Backrooms’ is a fitfully unsettling nightmare that never convincingly builds beyond its creepy, dated-decor premise.” Jake Coye, AP Film Writer it is not. “Think I’m ‘bout to lose it, I don’t even care no more,” she sings in the song’s chorus. “I’m ‘bout to lose control.” CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Woody Harrelson, left, and Matthew McConaughey pose together at the premiere of the show “Brothers” last Thursday in Los Angeles. day on Netflix. The stacked cast includes Russell Crowe as a psychologist and Shailene Woodley as the FBI agent on the case. MUSIC TO STREAM He’s one of the most consistent giants in country music for a reason. Chesney will release his 21st studio album — you read that correctly — Friday, titled “Silver Sands Marina.” It’s full-throated stadium country, with big hooks and bigger heart. You know, like all the great Chesney records.

Introducing the new Tinashe, unlike the old Tinashe except for the swagger. Her last album, 2024’s “Quantum Baby,” was defined by its viral hit “Nasty.” But she’s not interested in flash-in-the-pan moments. Her latest, “Popstar,” can be described in one word: unexpected. From the sped-up “Melatonin” to the falsetto and Kesha-esque talk-sung chorus of “Too Easy” there is no pop experiment too off-kilter for Tinashe. And the courage pays off. Just don’t call it a complete 180: “Crash Out” is Tinashe at her R&B-pop best, but a love song

SERIES TO STREAM Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson play exaggerated versions of themselves in “Brothers,” an eight-episode comedy from “The Office” alum Lee Eisenberg. After Harrelson’s daughter’s wedding falls apart, he moves his family to McConaughey’s Austin ranch — only for McConaughey’s mother (played by Holland Taylor) to reveal a secret suggesting the lifelong buddies might be brothers. The series marks a rare return to comedy for Harrelson, whose work on the small screen since “Cheers” ended in 1993 has largely been drama, including “True Detective” and “White House Plumbers.” The first two episodes are now streaming on Apple TV. Nearly 40 years after the

original premiered, Netflix revives the beloved HBCU sitcom “A Different World” on Thursday. Maleah Joi Moon plays Deborah Wayne, the daughter of Whitley (Jasmine Guy) and Dwayne (Kadeem Hardison), who is starting her freshman year at their alma mater, Hillman College. Guy, Hardison, Jada Pinkett Smith and other original cast members return for the first season. In “S.W.A.T.: Exiles,” Shemar Moore returns as Sgt. Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson in a spinoff of the CBS procedural, which ended its eight-season run in 2025. Pulled from forced retirement after a mission goes wrong, Hondo takes charge of an experimental S.W.A.T. unit made up of young recruits. Starz has already renewed it for a second season. It premieres Friday. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY In 2019’s “Control,” a government agent explored the inside of a Manhattan skyscraper that had been warped by paranormal forces. Bad news, New Yorkers: In “Control Resonant,” the hostile entities have left the building and are running rampant across the borough. Good news: The agent now on the case has supernatural powers of his own, including the ability to wield a giant Thor-style hammer that shapeshifts into other weapons. Finland’s Remedy Entertainment is best known for its small-town “Alan Wake” thrillers; we’ll see how well the studio can translate that eeriness to the big city. Start spreading the news Thursday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S or PC. One of the all-time great horror series made a spectacular return in 2025 with “Silent Hill f,” which moved the terror from its American roots to 1960s Japan. One year later, the nightmare is spreading to 1990s Scotland in “Silent Hill: Townfall.” This time, a guy named Simon finds himself in a foggy seaside village with no memory of how he got there — though he knows he has been summoned to “put things right.” As usual, you have just a few simple weapons to defend yourself against the zombies and other monsters roaming the streets. The miasma descends Thursday on PlayStation 5 and PC.

B4

Twin City Herald for Thursday, September 24, 2026

on the campaign trail

PHOTOS BY STAN GILLILAND / TWIN CITY HERALD

President Donald Trump flew into North Carolina last Wednesday to campaign in Gastonia for Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley and other Republicans on the ticket in the Tarheel state. Vice President JD Vance flew into Greensboro on Monday for a similar event, as the Senate race appears tight in the polls, with former governor Roy Cooper holding a lead over Whatley.

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 31 | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 | RANDOLPHRECORD.COM

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Randolph record THE RANDOLPH COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

ALEX BRANDON / AP PHOTO

KENT NISHIMURA / POOL VIA AP

Election season President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance made separate campaign stops in North Carolina this past week to stump for Republicans on the ballot, including, most prominently, U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley. Trump came to Gastonia last Wednesday, while Vance flew into Greensboro on Monday.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Trump admin to remove 760K Affordable Care Act enrollees over fraud claims Washington, D.C. Vice President JD Vance and White House officials are announcing plans to remove 760,000 Affordable Care Act enrollees from public healthcare exchanges. They allege the individuals were fraudulently enrolled or do not exist. On Tuesday, Vance said this move would save $2.2 billion, ensuring subsidies go to those who need them. The Trump administration is also suspending new brokers from signing up enrollees for six months, citing fraud concerns. As of early 2026, about 19.2 million Americans are enrolled in ACA marketplace plans.

Trump signs U.S.Denmark-Greenland agreement to bolster Arctic security United Nations The United States, Denmark and Greenland have signed an agreement to strengthen security in the Arctic and North Atlantic. President Donald Trump signed the deal Tuesday on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York. Trump earlier announced he planned to bolster the U.S. military presence in Greenland while keeping it under Danish and Greenlandic control. Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire for Greenland to become part of the U.S., ramping up tension.

$2.00

Randolph County Schools presented with 2025-26 school accountability data The district had 64.5% of schools receive a C or better performance grade By Ryan Henkel Randolph Record ASHEBORO — The Randolph County Schools Board of Education was presented with the district’s 2025-26 school performance data at its Sept. 21 meeting. The data, which was released by the State Board of Education earlier this month, highlights school performance and student achievement for all public schools in North Carolina and presents it on a graded scale. The school performance grades are calculated utilizing end-of-grade or end-of-course testing scores, English learner progress, math course rigor, ACT/WorkKeys results, graduation rates and academic growth. In total, the district had one school achieve an A grade

(Randolph Early College High School), four schools achieve a B grade, 15 schools achieve a C grade and 11 that received a D grade. No schools received an F grade, which is the first time in two years that the school system has not had a failing school. Overall, five schools increased their letter grade from the previous year, and 15 schools increased their numerical grade. “There has to be a group of people that could come up with something better than this crap,” said board member Todd Cutler. “This just seems like the hardest stuff to understand. What are we trying to identify here? I don’t doubt that everyone in the school system is trying to do their best, and it seems like this right here is just tough.” In terms of growth, just over half (16 of 31) of the district’s schools met or exceeded growth, which is down from the previous year (21 of 32).

“There has to be a group of people that could come up with something better than this crap.” Board Member Todd Cutler

The district also had 11 schools that were designated as low performing, meaning that they received a D grade and failed to exceed growth. Those include Eastern Randolph High, Level Cross Elementary, Liberty Elementary, Northeastern Randolph Middle, Ramseur Elementary, Randleman Elementary, Randleman Middle, Southeastern Randolph Middle, Trinity Middle, Uwharrie Ridge Six-Twelve and Wheatmore Middle. Of those schools, all but Northeastern Randolph Middle and Level Cross Elementary have been designated as

continually low-performing. “The letter grade bothers me and the lack of celebration of those number grades,” said Superintendent Stephen Gainey. “We had two schools that are low-performing, and one of them increased their number grade by nine and one increased by five. It’s hard to get out of that letter grade range. It’s very difficult, and sometimes I feel like it makes the staff feel defeated.” However, that number has been slowly decreasing over the years, with there having been 13 low-performing schools in 2024-25 and 15 in 2023-24. The district also had a four-year graduation rate of 92.8%. “Our four-year graduation rate went up two more points, and our overall five-year rate went up by 1.1 points,” Gainey said. “That was a positive that I never even pointed out, but we’re continuing to climb.” The Randolph County Schools Board of Education will next meet Oct. 19.

Bossong Hosiery closes after 99 years The shuttering of the business means that more than 100 workers have lost their jobs By Bob Sutton Randolph Record ASHEBORO — Bossong Hosiery didn’t quite make it to the 100-year mark. The business announced its closing after almost a century of operations in Randolph County. There will be 122 workers losing jobs based on the company’s filing of a Worker Adjustment and Retrain-

ing Notification with the North Carolina Department of Commerce. The company was a manufacturer and designer of medical, compression and fashion hosiery. “Bossong Hosiery has made the difficult decision to cease operations and proceed with an orderly liquidation of its assets,” the company said in an announcement last week. “As one of the last remaining vertically integrated hosiery mills in the United States, every effort was made in recent years to maintain a sustainable business, See BOSSONG, page A2

BOB SUTTON / RANDOLPH RECORD

There was a vacant feel at Bossong Hosiery last week along Salisbury Street in Asheboro.

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Randolph Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

THURSDAY

9.24.26

Moody presented award in Asheboro The former standout athlete and longtime coach on the collegiate level was back in the city to receive a special honor

“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 Bob Sutton Randolph Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Dan Reeves Features Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Ryan Henkel Reporter 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

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record ASHEBORO — Former Asheboro football quarterback Darrell Moody was presented The Pride of Asheboro Award during halftime of Friday night’s football game vs. Eastern Randolph. City of Asheboro officials and Asheboro City Schools

Sept. 14 • Brandon Darrel McClelland, 36, of Pleasant Garden, was arrested by RCSO for resisting a public officer. • Christopher Michael Macintyre, 26, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for felony conspiracy, obtaining property by false pretenses and possession of drug paraphernalia, and other charges. • D’Travion Maurece Capel, 21, of Star, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a controlled substance; felony possession of a controlled substance; and carrying a concealed weapon, and other charges. • Ethan Alexander Ledesma, 29, was arrested by Asheboro PD for trafficking in methamphetamine; possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver methamphetamine; and possession of drug paraphernalia, and other charges.

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Sept. 15 • Ashley Shanae Smith, 32, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and misdemeanor larceny. • Calvin Alexander Moore, 36, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for possession of a firearm by a felon, trafficking in opium or heroin and felony possession of cocaine, and other charges. • Christopher Dale Hudson, 44, of Climax, was arrested by RCSO for assault inflicting serious injury and simple assault. • Clarence Melone, 37, of Liberty, was arrested by RCSO for driving while impaired and expired registration. • Deven Michael Strong, 29, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver methamphetamine; felony possession of a controlled substance; and possession of drug paraphernalia, and other charges. • Ferrell Ray Crabtree, 48, of Lexington, was arrested by RCSO for misdemeanor larceny and possession of stolen property. • Jonathan Trey Heaton, 28, of Trinity, was arrested by RCSO for assault on a female, misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and interfering with emergency communications. • Justin Allan Lornson, 37, of Liberty, was arrested by Asheboro PD for assault on a female. Sept. 16 • Addison Chad Hall, 46, of Greensboro, was arrested by RCSO for breaking and entering with intent to terrorize or injure. • Andy Thomas Francisco, 27, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for driving while

BOSSONG from page A1 including exploring avenues to recapitalize the business. These options were not successful and continuing to operate the company was no longer a viable option. We are proud of the quality products our talented employees produced in Asheboro for nearly 100 years.” The headquarters seemed vacant at 840 West Salisbury St. late last week, though sig-

Randolph

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

Sept. 25 Sunset Signature Series: Elizabeth Hudson 7:30 p.m. Free ticket required. Doors at 6:30 p.m.; unused seats release at 7:15 p.m. The Farmer native is editor-in-chief of Our State. Sunset Theatre 234 Sunset Ave. Asheboro

CRIME LOG

• Juan Carlos Gonzalez Ramos, 25, of Randleman, was arrested by Asheboro PD for driving while impaired, habitual impaired driving and driving on a revoked license, and other charges.

WEEKLY FORECAST SPONSORED BY

personnel joined Moody for the on-field ceremony. Moody, an Asheboro native, was recognized for more than five decades of impact on athletes both locally and throughout the country. His coaching career took him to stops with major college programs and into the NFL. Moody, a 1966 graduate, was a star on Asheboro’s football and baseball teams in the mid-1960s. He played on Asheboro’s first American Legion baseball state championship team and began his coaching career on Asheboro’s football staff.

He played both sports at NC State, reaching the College World Series in baseball. His coaching stops on the college level took him to NC State, Southern Mississippi, LSU, Appalachian State, Tulane, UNC and Clemson. There also was a 2001 stint on Eastern Randolph’s coaching staff. Moody, 78, worked in NFL scouting roles with the San Diego Chargers, Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers. “Your career has been extraordinary,” according to the script read during the ceremony, “but your greatest accomplishment is the legacy you have created through the people you have helped along the way.” The Pride of Asheboro Award honors dedication and service to making a lasting difference in the lives of others and the Asheboro community.

impaired, possession of an open container of alcohol in the passenger area and driving on a revoked license. • April Marie Gay, 39, of Franklinville, was arrested by RCSO for possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine and nonsupport of child. • Barbara Ann Brown, 50, of Walkertown, was arrested by Archdale PD for felony possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and prostitution.

deliver a controlled substance; possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver cocaine; and possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver methamphetamine, and other charges. • Jonathan Chase Williams, 30, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for misdemeanor larceny and possession of stolen property.

Randleman vs. Lexington football 7 p.m. Homecoming. Randleman High School 4396 Tigers Den Road Randleman

• Stefanie Brooke Harrison, 36, of Sophia, was arrested by NCHP for driving while impaired, child not in rear seat and misdemeanor child abuse, and other charges.

Eastern Randolph vs. West Stanly football

Sept. 18

Home varsity game

• Christopher Junior Maness, 36, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of methamphetamine.

• Alex James Adkins, 31, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for violation of a domestic violence protective order.

Eastern Randolph High School 390 Eastern Randolph Road Ramseur

• Demarquis Leshon Maynard, 33, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession of a firearm by a felon and carrying a concealed weapon.

• Earnest Johnson, 62, of Thomasville, was arrested by Davidson County Sheriff’s Office for possession of a firearm by a felon; trafficking in cocaine; and possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver a controlled substance, and other charges.

• Brian Edwin Elkins, 53, of Bear Creek, was arrested by CCSO for possession of drug paraphernalia.

• Denzel Tye Gooch, 32, of Durham, was arrested by RCSO for obtaining property by false pretenses, financial card theft and possession of stolen property. • Eric Christopher Burgiss, 53, was arrested by Archdale PD for felony possession of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia and simple possession of a controlled substance, and other charges. • Heather Marie Davis, 38, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for communicating threats. • Jeffrey Dilon Peeler, 33, of Archdale, was arrested by Archdale PD for possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine and seconddegree trespass. • Krisna Nycole Johnson, 38, of Trinity, was arrested by RCSO for communicating threats and simple assault. • Marty Joe Stone, 44, of Sophia, was arrested by Asheboro PD for interfering with emergency communications. Sept. 17 • Adam McKinley Riddle, 27, of Pleasant Garden, was arrested by RCSO for assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

• Jacob Cody Williamson, 36, of Bennett, was arrested by RCSO for assault on a female. • Jacob Lawrence Sykes, 22, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for first-degree forcible rape and second-degree forcible rape. • Jeffrey Lynn Spivey, 57, of Denton, was arrested by NCHP for driving while impaired. Sept. 19 • David Charles Ell, 35, of Thomasville, was arrested by RCSO for assault by strangulation, assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, and other charges. • Kenneth Quashawn Saunders, 28, of Asheboro, was arrested by NCHP for driving while impaired, unauthorized use of motor vehicle and driving on a revoked license, and other charges. • Landon Keith McDaniel, 44, of Randleman, was arrested by Archdale PD for possession of methamphetamine and patronize prostitute engage-m. Sept. 20

7:30 p.m.

Sept. 26 N.C. Aviation Museum Annual Fly-In 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aircraft displays, museum tours, food and family activities, with a Golden Knights parachute demo at 1 p.m. Admission is $10; ages 10 and under are free. NC Aviation Museum and Hall of Fame 2222 Pilots View Road Asheboro

The Pull Exchange 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. A trading-card and collectibles marketplace. Asheboro Mall 1437 E. Dixie Drive Asheboro

Oct. 2-3

• Christopher Edward Faulkner, 52, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for violation of a domestic violence protective order.

• Brenden Joseph Jones, 25, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering and first-degree trespass, and other charges.

R.D. Mahan Annual Kiln Opening and Turkey Roast

• Daisy Katlyn Conner, 26, of Archdale, was arrested by RCSO for felony possession of a controlled substance, felony possession of cocaine and identity theft, and other charges.

• Dennis Lee Beck, 46, of Statesville, was arrested by RCSO for misdemeanor larceny, fleeing to elude arrest in a motor vehicle and possession of a stolen motor vehicle.

• Edward Eugene Lohr, 77, of Trinity, was arrested by RCSO for threaten exec legl court offcr.

• Nathan Lee Tolbert, 26, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for possession of drug paraphernalia, misdemeanor larceny and possession of stolen property.

An opportunity to munch on home-roasted turkey jerky while you shop Mahan’s newest innovations on the potter’s wheel and within the traditional wood-fired kiln.

• Eric Jonte Smith, 40, of Archdale, was arrested by RCSO for nonsupport of child. • Johnathan Isaiah Elkin, 22, of Asheboro, was arrested by Asheboro PD for possession with intent to manufacture, sell or

10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

172 Crestwood Road Robbins

Oct. 3 Asheboro Fall Festival 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

nage was still up on the outside of the facility. It became a third-generation family-run business with all products made in the United States. Bossong’s logo shows “Bossong since 1927” in a nod to the company’s history. The company touted that it specialized in providing contract, private label and manufacturing services to many nationally known brands and retailers. Among products

The 51st annual free downtown crafts, food and music festival.

“Continuing to operate the company was no longer a viable option.” Bossong Hosiery, company statement were medical compression legwear and fashion hosiery. Its website has listed more than a dozen industry partners.

Downtown Asheboro 123 Sunset Ave. Asheboro

Randolph Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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

VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | SUSAN MILLS

Get to know the real Michael Whatley Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics.

I HAVE KEPT SILENT hoping people will educate themselves before voting, but I still see fellow Republicans trying to tear down a good person. I was elected NCGOP vice chair to serve with Michael Whatley. I worked with him closely for over three years. He is a man of faith, family and freedom. He loves his beautiful family and would never put his children in harm’s way by “hiring” a person that preys on children. He did not hire Harvey West. Harvey was elected by his constituents in the 1st District. Harvey was already a member of the Plan of Organization Committee when Whatley became chair of the NCGOP. Many people are kept on committees to allow their knowledge of how the committee works to be passed down to new members. There was nothing strange about keeping Harvey on that committee. Look at organizations in your community, state and country. Do you throw out all their institutional knowledge to bring on someone that is new and has no idea of where to begin?

Whatley is a man of faith. We started each meeting, event, dinner with a prayer. He is a God-fearing person. He always wanted to do what was right, and he did. No one is perfect, so stop looking for perfection in anyone! Whatley loves the people of North Carolina and of this great country. I have seen it firsthand. He doesn’t put himself first. It’s the folks of N.C. who he put first and always will. He is a man of his word and not a person that lies. We need Whatley in the U.S. Senate. Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics — the Democratic candidate did that! As a person that has worked closely with him and considers him a close friend, I ask you to vote for Michael Whatley for U.S. Senate! Susan Mills is a public high school teacher who lives in Fayetteville.

COLUMN | DANIEL MCCARTHY

The immigration politics of a felon’s pardon “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that.

HOW FAR will New York Gov. Kathy Hochul go to keep immigrant criminals in this country? So far, she’ll even pardon a man convicted of an aggravated felony if that’s what it takes to prevent the United States Supreme Court from setting a restrictionist precedent. Keisy Guerrero Mariano is a Dominican who spent two years in prison for committing a violent crime: second-degree assault. Mariano, known as “G.M.” in court documents, is exactly the sort of lawbreaker Americans overwhelmingly want to see deported. But not Hochul — she granted him clemency Aug. 28. His case stood out from those of the other five people she pardoned that day: The others were nonviolent offenders who’d committed their crimes decades ago: two in the 1980s, two in the ’90s, and just one as recently as 2007. G.M. was convicted in 2015. The governor decided he merited special leniency, for political reasons. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested G.M. in 2020, intending to deport him based on his criminal record. ICE had to let him go in 2022, however, because of a nationwide injunction related to COVID-19 that required the agency to review custody of individuals with certain medical conditions. While ICE had him, though, G.M.’s lawyers challenged the agency’s right to hold him for a prolonged time without a bond hearing. That’s what Hochul’s pardon is really about — the Trump administration planned to make the Dominican’s appeals a test case before the U.S. Supreme Court, one likely to establish that G.M. and others like him are not entitled to a bond hearing. Bond hearings are an easily exploited weakness in America’s immigration security, not only protracting the legal process of deporting lawbreakers but also giving them an opportunity to get out of detention temporarily — and then permanently fail to show up when they’re due for their next hearing. G.M. came to this country legally in 2011, but he forfeited any right to remain here once he committed a felony. Only now Hochul has nullified his conviction to undercut

ICE’s grounds for removing him and collapse the appeals process that was leading to the Supreme Court — and to a probable defeat for those who want to make deportation as difficult as possible. The governor isn’t looking out for New Yorkers here: Her maneuver is about liberal politicians’ zeal for maximum immigration, even when it means letting violent criminals remain in our communities. This is the second lucky break Hochul’s side has had recently. The other test case the Trump administration had teed up, involving a Jamaican national convicted (also in New York) of sexually abusing a child under the age of 11, has been taken out of the courts as well after the offender left the country and filed a court declaration saying he would not be coming back to America. Self-deportation is one way to get immigrants convicted of heinous crimes out of here. But ICE can’t deport someone who has already deported himself, so his claim of a right to a bond hearing is now completely moot. The big question still has to be answered, though: Can immigration enforcement detain these violent perps and sex offenders until they can be tossed out? Or if they’ve been in custody for a while, are they entitled to bond hearings that will further delay their removal — and give them the chance to escape back into Americans’ neighborhoods? Solicitor General John Sauer says he’s not going to let Hochul’s gambit succeed. G.M.’s case may have been pulled, but Sauer aims to find another that will bring the fight to the Supreme Court. “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that — even a legal immigrant who commits a serious offense ought to be expelled promptly, and he shouldn’t get the benefit of a bond hearing just because his case takes longer than it should and he winds up in “prolonged” detention. He shouldn’t get the benefit of a liberal governor’s partisan machinations either. New Yorkers — American citizens — elected Hochul, and she should put them first, not foreigners who commit crimes while they’re here, legally or otherwise. Daniel McCarthy is the editor of Modern Age: A Conservative Review. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

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Randolph Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

obituaries

Teresa Ann Smith Rudelt

Patricia Ann Jones Lamb

Dec. 5, 1963 – Sept. 18, 2026

Oct. 22, 1951 – Sept. 17, 2026

Teresa Ann Rudelt, 62, of Randleman, North Carolina, passed away on September 18, 2026. Teresa lived life very much on her own terms. She was strong-willed, spirited, and rarely concerned with following a conventional path. The relationships she chose to invest herself in mattered deeply to her, particularly her bond with her mother and the friendships she maintained throughout her life. Those who knew Teresa knew that she could be colorful, unpredictable, and unmistakably herself. She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald Rudelt; her son, Robert Lee Pittman; her father, Buddy Smith; and her brothers, Raymond Townson and Danny Smith. Teresa is survived by her mother, Edith Whipkey; her daughter, April Hatchel; her stepdaughter, Rebecca Rudelt; her grandchildren, Rebecca Hardy, Aryn Neel, Caleb Collins, Emmalee Collins, and Lincoln Collins; her brother, Michael Gallimore; her stepsister, Pam Edney; as well as friends and others whose lives became intertwined with hers over the years. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made in Teresa’s honor to: Suicide Prevention Arrangements are being handled by Pugh Funeral Home, Randleman. Service information will be announced when available.

Patricia Ann Jones Lamb, age 74, of Randleman, North Carolina, passed away on September 17, 2026, at Moses Cone Hospital. Patricia was born on October 22, 1951, to the late Pressley Jones and Ina Odell Jones. A natural caretaker with a heart for everyone, Patricia was the center of her family. She

Gerrie Lamb Bowles Aug. 1, 1940 – Sept. 17, 2026 Vera “Gerrie” Louise Lamb Bowles, 86, of Trinity, passed away Thursday, September 17, 2026, at the High Point Medical Center. Born August 1, 1940, in Greensboro, NC, she was a daughter of the late Elbert Lamb and the late Louise Younger Lamb. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her sister, Carolyn Hendrix. Gerrie married Carroll Bowles and were married for 67 years. She loved the Lord and was a Member of Green Street Baptist Church. Gerrie enjoyed going to Hilton Head beach and was an avid Carolina Tar Heel fan. Those left to hold her memory; her husband, Carroll Bowles; daughter, Vickie Sheets and husband Greg; grandson; Christopher Sheets and wife Lina; great grandsons, Beckett and Benson “Benny” Sheets; brother, David Lamb; cherished uncle, Bill Younger and wife Nancy, nieces, cousins and other family. The family will receive friends at the Archdale Chapel of Wright Funerals-Cremations, Monday, October 5, 2026, from 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Wright Funerals-Cremations, Archdale, is in charge of the arrangements.

Bonnie Faye Yow Oct. 28, 1935 – Sept. 18, 2026 Bonnie Faye Maness Yow, age 90, of Asheboro, North Carolina, passed away on September 18, 2026, at Randolph Hospice House. Bonnie was born on October 28, 1935, in Guilford County to the late Thomas Morris Maness and Esta Jane Harvell Maness. Bonnie shared over forty wonderful years of marriage with her late husband, Jesse. Together, they built a life centered around family and hard work, with Bonnie faithfully working alongside him in his furniture business. She was a devoted and loving mother who created a warm, welcoming home, and her family will always remember the care she put into making fresh homemade biscuits every morning. Bonnie treasured the simple moments in life, especially taking long, leisurely Sunday rides with Jesse. A natural hostess who loved being surrounded by friends and family, she found great fulfillment in cooking and hosting dinners at her house just to have the people she cared about gathered together. Later in life she developed friendships in gospel music singing and bingo. In addition to her parents, Bonnie was preceded in death by her husband, Jesse Yow; her daughters, Shelia Sheffield and Debra Jane Yow; her brother, Tommy Maness; her son-in-law, Norman Caviness; and her greatgranddaughter, Aniston Williams. She is survived by her daughter, Cynthia Caviness; her grandchildren, Sherri Lassiter, Angie Williams and her husband, Michael, Jonathon Brown and his wife, Leanne, and Jennifer Jones; as well as eight greatgrandchildren and two greatgreat-grandchildren. Special thanks to the friends and staff at Cross Road Retirement Community for the exceptional love and care that was shown throughout the years. The family will receive friends on Thursday, September 24, 2026, at 2:00 pm. A funeral service will follow in the Glenn “Mac” Pugh Chapel. Burial will follow at Pisgah UMC Cemetery.

shared 24 wonderful years of marriage with her late husband, Richard, and took immense pride in raising her daughters. Sunday dinners were a cherished tradition in her home, where she found great fulfillment in cooking for her children, twelve grandchildren, and fifteen great-grandchildren. She was deeply devoted to her family and always looked forward to having everyone together. Patricia also possessed a wonderfully playful sense of humor, often keeping her kids laughing with antics like playfully showing off her false teeth. In her free time, Patricia enjoyed the thrill of finding a good deal at local yard sales and auction houses, as well as taking quick, relaxing day trips to the beach. She was a devoted Elvis Presley fan and spent many happy hours tending to her virtual farm on the Facebook game Hay Day. Patricia also had a rather humorous relationship with the neighborhood

animals—for reasons she never quite understood, cats were absolutely drawn to her, even though the feeling was definitely not mutual. In addition to her parents, Patricia was preceded in death by her husband, Richard Lamb; her sisters, Gladys Lamb and Cathy McNeil; her brother, Sonny Jones; and her son-in-law, Shannon Dilldine. She is survived by her daughters, Laurie Lamb, Amy Davis and her husband, David, and Melissa Dilldine and Wali; along with her twelve grandchildren and fifteen greatgrandchildren. The family will receive friends on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at Pugh Funeral Home of Randleman. A funeral service will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 2:00 pm at the Eddie Pugh Memorial Chapel. Burial will follow at Randolph Memorial Park.

Tena Stone

Allen Ray Cranford

Feb. 28, 1957 – Sept. 11, 2026 Tena Renae Merrill Stone, 69, of New London, NC, died Friday, September 11, 2026, at Wesley Long Hospital in Greensboro. A celebration of life will be held at 4:00 p.m., Friday, September 18, 2026, at Crestview Wesleyan Church, Asheboro, with Pastor Jam Patterson officiating. Please dress casual as Tena would prefer. Born on February 28, 1957, in Thomasville, NC, Mrs. Stone was the daughter of the late James Lester and Nancy Younts Merrill. She had attended Thomasville High School and was the previous owner of Williamsburg Paint Company of Thomasville. Working in the yard and spending time at Badin Lake were some of her favorite things to do. But most of all she loved her family, especially her grandchildren. Survivors include her daughters, Stephanie Branson (Chad) of Asheboro, Ashley Gallimore (Justin) of Thomasville; sister, Rhonda Kindley (David Henry) of Trinity; grandchildren, Bella Branson, Coen Branson, Jaxon Gallimore, Jeryt Gallimore; best friends and loving caregivers, Joy “Gi” Kelly, Susan Lee, and Tonya Denton. The family will receive friends following the service in the church fellowship hall. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959; or to Crestview Wesleyan Church, 180 Crestview Church Road, Asheboro, NC 27205.

July 9, 1928 – Sept. 12, 2026 Allen Ray Cranford, age 98, of Asheboro passed away peacefully on September 12, 2026 at The Randolph Hospice House. He was born July 9, 1928 in the New Hope area of North Carolina the son of the late Charlie Harris Cranford and Bulice Davis Cranford. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by two wives, Betty Jean Austin Cranford and Geraldine Chisholm Cranford; two sons; and eleven brothers and sisters. Allen honorably served his country in the United States Navy for 30 years, attaining the rank of Senior Naval Chief. His remarkable military career included deployments throughout three wars: World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. During his time at sea, he proudly served on a ship represented by seven nations, embodying the spirit of dedication and commitment to his country. After his military service, Allen ventured into cattle farming, where he found joy and fulfillment working with the herd. His skills extended beyond raising cattle, as he became adept at preparing the product for distribution and sale. Alongside his farming endeavors, Allen pursued interests in beekeeping and upholstery, demonstrating his diverse talents and love for craftsmanship. He obtained his real-estate license, further showcasing his dedication to lifelong learning and adaptability. A man of faith, he was an active member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church of Batesville, Arkansas, and participated in the Knights of Columbus, living a life guided by his spiritual beliefs. He will be remembered for his steadfast commitment to his country, his industrious spirit, and his devotion to his faith and family. Left to cherish his memory are his stepson, Gralen Cranford and wife Cindy McCollom Cranford; daughters, Anona Basant and Maggie Fernandez; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren; and a host of beloved family and friends. A Celebration of Life will be announced in the near future. The family would like to thank the staff of Randolph Hospice House for their compassionate care of Allen and his family.

Jeffrey Casale Sept. 13, 1946 – Sept. 16, 2026 Jeffrey Andrew Casale, 80, of Asheboro, passed away Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at Heartland Living and Rehab in Greensboro. Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m., on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Charles Moses officiating. Burial will follow in Maple Springs Baptist Church Cemetery with military honors provided by the Randolph County Honor Guard. Born September 13, 1946, in Williamsport, PA, Mr. Casale was the son of the late Charles Horton and Kathleen Clarkson Casale. He loved going to church and was Sunday school teacher for many years at different churches. Playing piano was one of his passions, and after many years of playing he finally learned Moonlight Sonata. “Mr. Fix-It”, as he was referred to, would always try to repair something before replacing it. Mr. Casale was also a published writer. His writings include his book, “Reflections On America,” and several religious opinion pieces. He also loved writing letters to others. In addition to his parents, Mr. Casale was preceded in death by his wife, Claire Casale, his daughter, Heather Burgess, and his brothers, Stephen Casale and Clark Casale. The family will receive friends from 1:00 p.m. until 1:45 p.m., on Tuesday, at Ridge Funeral Home prior to the funeral service. Mr. Casale is survived by his stepson, Fred Watkins (Angie), and his grandchildren, Tyler Wright, Margaret Wright, Katelyn Watkins (Kyle) and Jessica Watkins.

Faedene Maness Feb. 2, 1930 – Sept. 14, 2026 Faedene Ragsdale Maness, 96, of Asheboro, died Monday, September 14, 2026, at her home. Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Friday, September 18, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home Chapel, Asheboro, with Ken McDowell and Neale Kearns officiating. Burial will follow at Brower’s Chapel Road Cemetery, Asheboro. Following the graveside service, the family will receive friends at her home. Mrs. Maness was born on February 2, 1930, in Randolph County, NC, and was the daughter of the late Asbury Martin and Bertha Trogdon Ragsdale. She was a graduate of Fayetteville Street School and had retired from Black & Decker. She had also worked at Vestal Ford. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Maness was preceded in death by her husband, Lewis Maness, son, Dale Martin Maness, two brothers, and three sisters. She is survived by her daughter, Debbie Maness of Asheboro. The family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. on Friday at Ridge Funeral Home, prior to the funeral service Memorials may be made to Hospice of Randolph, 416 Vision Drive, Asheboro, NC 27203.

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Randolph Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Sandra Brim Loftis

Donald Ray Medlin

Sept. 23, 1961 – Sept. 14, 2026

Sept. 15, 1949 – Sept. 12, 2026

Sandra Brim Loftis, 64, of Asheboro, NC, ran into the arms of her Lord and Savior on September 14, 2026, surrounded by the ones she loved most. Sandra was born and raised in Asheboro, NC, by her late parents, Everett and Glenda Brim. She was a 1979 graduate of Southwestern Randolph High School. Throughout her younger years, Sandra was a plant manager at Matlab, sold insurance with Primerica, and taught at Stepping Stones Daycare. Sandra never met a stranger. She made friends everywhere she went and was a true friend to many. She was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off her back, and she had a heart for serving and caring for others. Sandra was an active member of New Hope Community Church in Seagrove, where her faith was the most important part of her life. She rarely spoke to anyone without sharing her love for the Lord. She had a fierce faith in Jesus and trusted Him in everything. Sandra was a prayer warrior. Anyone who came to her with a need, a struggle, or a worry could count on her to pray over them and remind them to trust the Lord. Her faith was not simply something she believed; it was something she lived. She devoted many years to teaching children about Jesus, both through Sunday school and her work in daycare, and she dearly loved her church family. She especially loved the senior ministry at New Hope. Sandra deeply loved her family. She loved being a wife and a mama, but her greatest joy was being a Nana to her two grandsons, Dallis and Karter, whom she loved dearly. Her family was her heart, and she cherished every moment spent with them. She also loved her beloved dog, Rocket, and cat, Lily, who were part of the family. Sandra enjoyed shopping, thrifting and antiquing, cooking, crafting, floral arranging, and spending time with the people she loved. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, friendship, generosity, and a life devoted to serving others. Sandra is survived by her husband, Paul Loftis; her daughter, Nicole Dombrowski (John); her beloved grandsons, Dallis and Karter; her brother, Lee Brim (Laura); nephews, Adam (Kaley) and Zac (Candace); great-niece and great-nephew, Raelynn and Brooks; as well as numerous cousins and many very special friends who loved her dearly. A visitation with the family will be held at Ridge Funeral Home in Asheboro on Friday, September 18, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held at New Hope Community Church in Seagrove on Saturday, September 19, at 11:00 a.m., with Rev. Richard Routh, Rev. Casey Harris, and Rev. Matt Smith officiating. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to New Hope Community Church, 4215 New Hope Road, Asheboro, NC 27205, designated to the Senior Ministry; or to Christian United of Southern Randolph County, 424 E. Main Street, Seagrove, NC 27341.

It is with profound sadness we announce the passing of Donald Ray Medlin, 76, of Asheboro, North Carolina on September 12, 2026. Born in Concord, NC in 1949 to Reece and Lula Medlin, Don grew up with a deep appreciation for family, community, and the simple joys of life. As the original owner of Mountain View Market in Sophia for more than 30 years, he built a career marked by dedication, integrity, and kindness toward everyone he met. Friends and family will remember him for his warm smile, quick wit, and unwavering generosity. He was the kind of person who made others feel seen, valued, and cared for. He was preceded in death by his parents, Reece and Lula; his brothers Gerald and Tommy; and his granddaughter Brandi. He is survived by his children, Angela Medlin Rush, Jennifer McCurry (Richard) and of course, Buddy. He is also survived by his grandchildren Casey Skipper and Joshua Floyd, his sister-in-law Jo Medlin, and numerous great grandchildren that he cherished deeply. The family will receive friends from 6:00 – 8:00PM, Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Pugh Funeral Home, Asheboro. A graveside service will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026 at 10:00AM, at Randolph Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Donna J. Elston Feb. 21, 1942 – Sept. 14, 2026 Donna Jean Vrooman Elston, 84, of Asheboro, passed away Monday, September 14, 2026, at Moses Cone Hospital in Greensboro. Donna was born on February 21, 1942, in Syracuse, New York, the daughter of the late Charles Edgar Vrooman and Elizabeth Nora Starrs. In 1972 she married the love of her life, Veryl, and moved to North Carolina shortly thereafter. Professionally, she lived a life dedicated to serving others and building connections. She spent meaningful time working as a nurse aid, providing handson care and comfort to those in need. Taking charge of her own path, she also poured her talent and energy into working as a successful business owner

Tracy Donnell Rush Sept. 30, 1947 – Sept. 14, 2026 Tracy Donnell Rush, born Sept. 30, 1947, passed away Sept. 14, 2026. Visitation and a funeral service were held Friday, Sept. 18, 2026, at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Asheboro.

Judith “Judy” Stultz Aug. 20, 1941 – Sept. 12, 2026 Judith “Judy” Alice Stultz, age 85, of Asheboro passed away on September 12, 2026 at Clapp’ Convalescent Nursing Home. Mrs. Stultz was a graduate of Fayetteville Street School and loved living in Asheboro. She retired from GE/Black & Decker and loved the many people she met while employed there. Judy loved a good game of Rook or Canasta and was an excellent and wonderful cook. Judy had a big heart and in a nice way was very blunt in speaking that made for many funny times. Judy made a fun-loving and caring home, which was a safe haven for all who came to visit. Above all else, Judy dearly loved her family. Her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren were very special to her, and she loved them with all her heart. Judy had a very special bond with her mother, Tula “Whootie” Brady Jones and the love of her life, Tommy, with whom she shared 45 wonderful years. They both preceded Judy in death. She is survived by her sons, Doug Stultz (Anne) of Greensboro and David Stultz (Kelli) of Asheboro; grandchildren, Ryan Stultz (Anna) of Wilmington, Tyler Stultz (Danielle) of Summerville, SC, and Cody Stultz of Troy; and her great-grandchildren, Lilly Stultz and James Stultz. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at 11:00 am at Oaklawn Cemetery with Rev. Mark Wilburn, Rev. Richard Routh, and Rev. Talmadge Williams officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Balfour Baptist Church, 1642 N. Fayetteville St., Asheboro, NC 27203 or West Bend Church, P.O. Box 1845, Asheboro, NC 27205-1845. Pugh Funeral Home in Asheboro has the honor of serving the Stultz family.

Jimmy Garland Long Dec. 20, 1952 – Sept. 13, 2026 Jimmy Garland Long Sr., age 73, of Denton passed away September 13, 2026 at First Health Moore Regional Hospital. He was born December 20, 1952 in Randolph County, North Carolina the son of the late Hobert Long and Annie Mae Ward Long. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Kay Joyce Long, and brothers, Gary Hobert Long and William Gilbert Long. Jimmy was employed with Kayser Roth Hosiery where he dedicated himself to being a knitter, weaving threads with care. He had an undeniable zest for life, finding solace in the quiet moments by the lake with a fishing pole in his hand. His outgoing nature and infectious sense of humor made him the life of every gathering, whether sharing a meal or indulging in his favorite treat, a milkshake. To Jimmy, family was not just a word but a way of life. He found immense joy in the company of loved ones, creating memories that will be cherished forever. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and love, and he will be dearly missed. Left to cherish his memory are his sons, Jimmy Long Jr. and Timothy Dale Long; grandchildren, Adreyanna Long and Brooklynn Long; sister, Annie Poteet; brother, Marty Long; feline companion, Mr. Gray; and numerous other beloved family and friends. The family will hold a private celebration of life at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to assist the family with medical and funeral expenses.

with her devoted husband for a number of years before selling and spending the last twentythree years of her career in customer service. Outside of work, she was happiest on the golf course, enjoying all the game has to offer. I think it is fair to say she considered herself a talented golfer! She was equally passionate about NASCAR and rarely missed watching a race during the season. The love for racing grew out of the weekly Saturday evening outings at the Hickory Motor Speedway. When Donna wasn‚Äôt on the golf course or cheering on her favorite driver, you could find her cuddled in her chair reading one of the thousands of books she devoured during her lifetime. Traveling was another passion and she enjoyed making numerous camping trips across the country with her family as well as “snowbirding” to Florida for the winters. She was a longtime member of Aldersgate Methodist Church in Shelby. Above all else, her greatest joy and proudest achievement was her family. She was deeply involved with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, never missing a moment to cheer them on, protect them, and shower them with unconditional love. Her fierce devotion to the

younger generations leaves an enduring legacy that will shape her family for years to come. In addition to her parents, Donna was preceded in death by her infant son, David Ronald; and brother, Donald Peter Vrooman. Donna is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 54 years, Veryl Elston of the home; children, Rhonda Oliver (Ray) of Apex, Jeff Elston (Christina) of Wilmington, Cindy Wagner (Dan) of Asheboro, Leah Wetherill (John) of Belle Haven, VA, Lisa Weaver (Allen) of Wake Forest; brother, Douglas Vrooman of Buffalo, NY; grandchildren, Evan (Hannah), Drew, Chase Oliver (Jennifer), Mason Wagner, Zack and Isabella Elston, Ben Weaver (Mary); great grandchildren, Preston, Ivy, Eden, and Carter Oliver; and Macy, Corbin, Kyleigh, and Elise Bumgarner who “adopted” Donna and Veryl. They happily and proudly took on the role being a part of their family. The family will receive friends from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m., Saturday, September 26, 2026, at Ridge Funeral Home, 908 Albemarle Road, Asheboro. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-9959.

Addie Lee Kiser

David Lugene Lackey

June 27, 1929 РSept. 17, 2026 Addie Lee Hicks Kiser, 97, of Seagrove, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at Kate B. Reynolds Hospice Home in Winston-Salem. Funeral Services will be held at 3:00 PM, Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at Antioch Christian Church, Seagrove. Reverend Brian Faircloth and Reverend Bryan Maness, officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Mrs. Kiser was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, caregiver, and neighbor to many. She was a devoted homemaker and cherished the time she spent with her family, especially her grandchildren and greatgrandchildren. Mrs. Kiser was also a talented seamstress with a green thumb who enjoyed flower and vegetable gardening. She enjoyed cooking for her family and was known especially for her desserts. She was born June 27, 1929, and was a native of Randolph County, North Carolina. She retired in 1994 from The John Plant Company in Ramseur, following many years of dedicated service. She was a faithful member of Antioch Christian Church. Mrs. Kiser was preceded in death by the love of her life and wonderful husband of 63 years, Raymond Dennis Kiser; her parents, James Arthur Hicks and Bertha Lee Asbill Hicks; and her five siblings, Grace H. Hayes, Lillie H. Davis, Lucy H. Hayes, Fred H. Hicks, and Ruby H. Ritter. She is survived by her daughter, Sandra K. Gann, and husband Edward, of Yadkinville; grandchildren, Angela Gann Hill, and husband Darren, of Lewisville, and Kimberly Gann Clark, and husband Ryan, of Lewisville; as well as four greatgrandchildren—Connor and Lawson Hill and Eloise and Lucy Clark; along with multiple generations of nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at 1:00 PM until 2:45 PM at Antioch Christian Church, Seagrove, immediately preceding the funeral service. Memorials may be made to Trellis Supportive Care, 101 Hospice Lane, Winston-Salem, NC 27103. Condolences may be made online at www. loflinfuneralservice.com. Loflin Funeral Home in Ramseur is honored to serve the Kiser family during this difficult time.

June 9, 1952 – Sept. 13, 2026 David Lugene Lackey, of Trinity passed away Sunday, September 13, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Born June 9, 1952, in High Point. He was the son of the late,Hueston Gilbert Lackey and the late, Nancy Kearns Lackey Hill. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Roger Dale Lackey and sister, Susan Rebecca Lackey Gray. David was a kind and gentle man. His love was like no other, and everyone knew that. Over the years he taught many how to hunt, to build, to fish, to ride horses, and how to love others unconditionally. David fought a courageous battle with cancer and persevered through multiple surgeries and treatments. His determination to keep living his life was steadfast until the end. His family kept him encouraged, while his saying was simply “God‚Äòs got this”. David attended Triad Cowboy Church. Left to cherish his memory are his loving and devoted wife, Kimberly Barnes Lackey; 3 beautiful daughters, Lori Lackey Parker and husband Dalin, Crystal Lackey Jenkins and husband Chuck, and Lindsey Lackey; 5 grandchildren; Caitlin Dillon, Cody Parker, Conner Jenkins, Alex Morgan, Brooklyn Morgan; 3 great grandchildren, Brynlee Dillon, Paisleigh Parker, Kennedi Parker; also his loving sisters, Kay Winfrey, and Fay Trotter. Funeral service will be 2:00 PM on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Triad Cowboy Church on Muddy Creek Road in High Point with Pastor Doug Davis officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:30 to 7:30 PM on Thursday, September 17, 2026 at Wright Funeral Service in High Point. Wright Funerals-Cremations, High Point, is in charge of the arrangements.

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Randolph Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

on the campaign trail

PHOTOS BY STAN GILLILAND / STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

President Donald Trump flew into North Carolina last Wednesday to campaign in Gastonia for Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley and other Republicans on the ticket in the Tarheel state. Vice President JD Vance flew into Greensboro on Monday for a similar event, as the Senate race appears tight in the polls, with former governor Roy Cooper holding a lead over Whatley.

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Gather around the ball Members of Duke’s coverage unit swarm Stanford’s Liam Thorpe during Saturday’s 35-7 victory in the Blue Devils’ Atlantic Coast Conference football opener at Wallace Wade Stadium in Durham. Duke holds a 3-0 overall record as it steps out of conference for this Saturday’s matchup with William & Mary for its third home game of the season.

Asheboro lives up to label as favorite, topples Wildcats The Blue Comets put together two long drives behind a punishing ground attack By Bob Sutton Randolph Record ASHEBORO — Asheboro’s undefeated football team had something different to deal

with for Friday night’s game against longtime rival Eastern Randolph. “We were the favorite,” Blue Comets coach Calvin Brown said. “The pressure was on us.” With a smothering defense and a couple of long drives on offense, Asheboro mastered that test by winning 14-3 in a much-anticipated matchup.

“We knew it from the get-go. We knew these guys couldn’t stay with us for 48 minutes,” Asheboro running back Connor Brinton said. “They couldn’t stay with us for the whole game. We knew once we wore them out, it was over.” That was no easy task against an Eastern Randolph team that was aggressive defensively for most of the night.

Cougars, Eagles set tone in conference play Randolph Record staff SOUTHWESTERN Randolph’s volleyball winning streak grew to nine matches with three victories last week. The Cougars’ 25-20, 27-25, 25-10 home victory against North Stanly came with Cheynne Dixon’s 15 kills and Marijose Medina’s 15 assists and 13 digs. Southwestern Randolph’s 25-11, 25-9, 25-11 cruising past host Northwood came with Sara-Kate Marion’s eight kills in the Four Rivers Conference. Also in league play at Jordan-Matthews, the Cougars rolled 25-4, 25-15, 25-10. • Uwharrie Charter Academy controlled host Eastern Randolph in a 25-6, 25-25, 25-16 romp in the Four Rivers Conference as Carly Rush compiled 13 kills and Braelyn Green had 34 assists. Later in league play, UCA dominated visiting Jordan-Mat-

Dallas Brinton, Asheboro quarterback Connor Brinton ran for 108 yards on 18 carries and his brother, quarterback Dallas Brinton, posted 63 yards on 23 attempts. “They 3- and 3- and 4-yard you to death,” Eastern Randolph coach Burton Cates said. “We knew that was a possibility.” The yardage was much more difficult to come by for Eastern Randolph (2-3). The Wild-

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“We pounded it. We wore them down a little bit.”

cats was held to 146 yards of total offense. “We take big pride in our defense,” Asheboro linebacker Shane Immel said. “We think we’re special.” Brown said defensive coordinator Glen Hunt had a chore in finding the right calls to thwart an offense with some big-time playmakers and a third-year starter at quarterback. Now the Blue Comets (5-0) have topped Eastern Randolph in back-to-back seasons for the first time in nearly a decade, and this didn’t look like an upset. Connor Brinton keyed the beginning and end of Asheboro’s

League races are taking shape with area teams factoring near the top of the standings thews 25-6, 25-12, 25-10 as Caroline Way turned in 12 kills. In between the conference matches, the Eagles topped host Richmond County 25-12, 25-12, 25-17 behind Way’s 12 kills and Green’s 37 assists. • Asheboro prevailed 21-25, 25-21, 20-25, 25-19, 15-9 at Randleman as Cora Little supplied 12 kills and 12 digs. Adalynn Scherer notched 15 kills. For Randleman, Karrington Jones had 12 kills, and Kaylee Phillips collected 14 digs and 10 kills. Asheboro also won two Triad Area Athletic Conference matches. The Blue Comets sank host Eastern Guilford 25-12, 25-11, 25-7, and they handled host Northeast Guilford. • Randleman took down visiting Trinity 25-18, 20-25, 24-26, 25-12, 19-17 as Kar-

rington Jones tallied 14 kills and Olivia Ashby provided 17 digs and four aces. The Tigers stopped visiting High Point Andrews 25-8, 25-8, 25-12 in the Piedmont Athletic Conference. • Providence Grove captured three victories last week, beginning with a 25-17, 25-14, 25-14 success at Northwood. The Patriots notched a 25-23, 25-27, 25-14, 25-23 triumph against host East Davidson in the Central Carolina 3A Conference. Providence Grove also edged visiting Wheatmore 23-25, 25-23, 25-19, 18-25, 15-7 in league play. • Trinity had a 25-7, 25-9, 25-10 road sweep of Thomasville in the Central Carolina 3A Conference. In another league match, the Bulldogs withstood visiting West Davidson by 25-15, 25-22, 25-14 as Avalynn Johnson had 38 assists and 17 service points and Mya Hooker posted 15 service points and 11 kills. • Wheatmore’s 25-8, 25-13, 25-11 sweep of visiting Chatham Central came with Addison Phillips’ 11 assists and eight kills. Wheatmore fell 25-21, 25-25, 21-25, 25-15, 15-6 to host West Davidson in a Central Carolina 3-A Conference match despite Phillips’ 15 assists and 11 kills.

Providence Grove, Trinity secure victories Randleman fell in a close encounter with a first-time opponent Randolph Record staff CLIMAX — Connor Tozer scored on offense and defense, Nick Straughn ran for two touchdowns, and Providence Grove snapped a twogame skid with a 45-6 home victory against Jordan-Matthews on Friday night. Tozer returned an interception for a touchdown and also caught one of Landon Fox’s two touchdown throws. Fox also passed to Braedyn Waddell for a touchdown. Straughn gained 130 yards on 10 carries. Hunner Norris also had a touchdown run for the Patriots (3-2). Kyler Keller kicked a field goal and six extra-point kicks. Jordan-Matthews fell to 2-3. • Trinity 35, Surry Central 28: At Dobson, the visiting Bulldogs won for the first time this season. Trinity (1-4) had to hold on as Surry Central (0-5)

Friday’s Week 6 schedule • Lexington at Randleman • West Stanly at Eastern Randolph • Southwestern Randolph at McMichael

threatened late in the game. Surry Central also lost to Trinity last year. • Felton Grove 28, Randleman 25: At Randleman, Felton Grove built a 28-12 halftime lead, and that was enough in the first meeting between the schools. Randleman (1-4) was boosted by Reid Herring’s two touchdown throws to Lincoln Lawson and a strong rushing attack sparked by Trey Burnett and Kayden Saunders. Burnett and Saunders were both charted with 108 yards on 17 carries. Burnett and Christian McNair each ran for a touchdown. Herring finished 15 for 24 for 146 yards with an interception. The Tigers gained 306 yards on the ground. Felton Grove (3-1) has won three games in a row.

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Randolph Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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Cougars collect big points in wild win Southwestern Randolph big lead was shredded by Wheatmore’s comeback

ASHEBORO from page B1

PJ WARD BROWN / RANDOLPH RECORD FILE PHOTO

Asheboro’s Kailey Brown sets a ball during a home match last month.

Asheboro, volleyball The senior setter has been a key part of the Blue Comets’ offense. The co-captain has been responsible for an overwhelming majority of the team’s assists throughout the season. She provided 33 assists and eight aces in the Blue Comets’ five-set escape at Randleman last week. Brown’s hitting percentage is about 35% for a team-best mark. She also tops the Asheboro charts for aces. The Blue Comets won all three of their matches last week, including two in the Triad Area Athletic Conference, to move their record back above .500.

first scoring drive. He made an interception in the end zone to get the ball back for the Blue Comets. The ensuing drive lasted almost seven minutes, with Connor Brinton scoring on a 3-yard run with 12 seconds left in the first half. “We pounded it,” Dallas Brinton said. “We wore them down a little bit. We scored right before half, which was really nice for us, get our momentum going a little bit. We knew we were going to come out with the same game plan of running it down, trying to wear them down.” Eastern Randolph’s Joel Salinas kicked a 25-yard field goal with 3:55 left in the third quarter. Dallas Brinton’s 1-yard

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es going to Gavin McPherson. Cole Lane scored two second-half touchdowns, and Kenny Hoover returned a kickoff for a score. Kenan Sugg scored the first two touchdowns on passes from Dalke, the first on a ball that was deflected by Wheatmore linebacker Noah Wyrick and resulted in a 45-yard play. Sugg’s second grab was a 17-yard diving catch in the end zone. “It’s always nice to get off to a good start and get the team rolling,” Sugg said. “Once we figured it out, they really had no answer for us.” Benton and McPherson connected on a 24-yard scoring play, and things were getting crazy. That was followed by Dalke’s 38-yard touchdown strike to Asher Haggerty. Then Gar-

touchdown on a fourth-down sneak in the fourth quarter came after Connor Brinton’s 37-yard run moved the Blue Comets into scoring position. “We needed to make a play,” Connor Brinton said of his long run. “Love the ball in my hands to make that play.” For the final 9:15, Asheboro’s defense did its thing. Quanta McRae’s interception marked the end of an Eastern Randolph possession. Then with slightly more than five minutes remaining, linebacker Ayden Letterlough’s tackle on a third-down screen pass after the Wildcats moved into Asheboro’s territory marked another big defensive moment. Eastern Randolph’s erratic play on offense for the first month of the season has been perplexing.

“I wish I knew,” Cates said of coming up with an answer. “We’ve got to get more consistent.” Quarterback Cade McCallum was 11 for 24 for 79 yards. Kobe Walker picked up 66 rushing yards. “A lot of respect for Cade McCallum,” Brown said, “so enough can not be said about what our defense did.” Senior linebacker/running back James Combs was out again for Eastern Randolph after playing a week earlier for the first time this year despite a knee injury. Asheboro, which is 5-0 for the second year in a row, has a week off before beginning Triad Area Athletic Conference play. “Now we’re ready to go take the next step,” Brown said.

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Cougars collect another victory Providence Grove and Trinity also had successful action last week

GIO HERNANDEZ scored three goals as Southwestern Randolph upended host Southeast Guilford 4-2 in boys’ soccer last week. Manny Dominguez-Torres added one goal and one assist for the Cougars, who improved to 7-2. • Providence Grove knocked

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Seth Baxter, Southwestern Randolph coach ner ran in from 4 yards out. The margin grew to 36-7 after Garner’s 22-yard catch from Dalke. But Benton’s heave on the last play of the half delivered a 59-yard touchdown when McPherson corralled the ball off a ricochet and raced to the end zone. “It’s 36-7 and they make a play,” Baxter said. And quite a few more. Lane scored from 23 yards out to open the second-half points parade, a touchdown countered by Garner’s 7-yard run. Bentley Mills intercepted a Dalke pass, setting up Lane’s 24-yard touchdown run. Garner then ran 35 yards for another touchdown. But the Warriors answered with Hoover’s 85-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. They recovered an onside kick prior to Benton’s fourth-and-7 throw to Mills for a touchdown — right after the scoreboard went blank — and his toss to Hoover for the two-point conversion made it 50-42. Before Wheatmore got the ball back, Dalke ran in from 1 yard out. Garner’s interception helped seal it. The game began 91 minutes late because of pregame lightning delays, so the final snap came after 11 p.m. It was Southwestern Randolph’s fourth non-Friday game. “Five weeks of adventure,” Baxter said.

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record TRINITY — Southwestern Randolph’s football team pretty much scored whenever it had the ball during Monday night’s make-up game. Wheatmore eventually got the hang of that too. So in what became a late-night endurance test, Southwestern Randolph prevailed 57-42 after Levi Dalke tied a school record with four touchdown passes and also ran for a score. Nathan Garner posted four touchdowns — three on the ground and another on a reception — for the visiting Cougars (4-1). “I love it,” Garner said of the workload that included 163 yards on 19 carries. “I’d get it every play if I could.” With about 7½ minutes remaining, the scoreboard went dark — perhaps it was just worn out. The rest of the game was played with time kept on the field. “Offensively, very pleased,” Southwestern Randolph coach Seth Baxter said. “We did about what we wanted to do.” Connor Benton threw for three touchdowns and 237 yards for Wheatmore (1-4), with two of those scoring pass-

“Five weeks of adventure.”

off visiting Uwharrie Charter Academy 4-1. Aidan Almond scored for UCA. The Eagles were back on track with Isaac Garcia’s two goals and one assist and Almond’s one goal and two assists leading the way in a 6-0 result against host West Davidson. • Trinity nipped visiting North Moore 3-2 and also topped host Eastern Guilford 5-2. • Wheatmore and host Jordan-Matthews played to a 2-2 draw, with Grayson Carter and Easton Dewitt scoring for the Warriors.

• Randleman secured its first victory of the season with a 5-0 decision against High Point Andrews in the Piedmont Athletic Conference. Outside of league play, the Tigers fell 1-0 at Southern Guilford and lost again, in their third game in as many days, by 2-0 to visiting Oak Grove. • Asheboro absorbed a 3-1 home loss to West Forsyth despite Ivan Castaneda. The Blue Comets later fell 2-0 at Reagan. • Victor Don Juan provided two goals, but Eastern Randolph dropped a 6-3 decision to visiting East Davidson.

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Randolph Record for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Ward claims victory in second feature Among the Caraway Speedway race results was a first-time winner at the track

Randolph Record staff SOPHIA — Track points leader Dylan Ward won one of the two features in Limited Late Models at Caraway Speedway. Ward ended up in third place in the first feature before taking the top spot in the second race. Ward was ahead of Diego

Mendez and Blake Bledsoe among the front runners. In the first race, Cam Thomas collected the victory, with Mendez the runner-up. Car troubles prevented Thomas from finishing the second race. • In Chargers, Enoch McNeill was the winner ahead of Boo Dalton, who owns the McNeill car. Cody Griffin placed third, followed by Daniel Schadt and Fletcher Whaley in the 35-lap feature. • In Mini Stocks, Peanut Baker was the winner for the first time at the speedway, finishing in front in the 40-lap test. Brandon Crotts placed

second and Cody Livingood took third. • For UCARs, Skyler Hughes held off Jimmy Cooper for the victory, with Justin Smith, Tito Clapp and Ron Mock completing the top five. Hughes and Mock won qualifying heats. • Nate Gregg was the victor in the Bowman Gray Challenge ahead of Riley Neal, while Brad Lewis claimed third. • Brandon Mock and Todd Bradbury each won a 12-lap race in the Crown Vic division. Steven Herring and Corey Wyatt had runner-up finishes. • The Legends victory went to Jhett Johnson across 25 laps. He finished ahead of Robert Holt. • In Bandoleros, Maverick Bradshaw was the winner in front of Brooke Myer. Regular racing at the speedway is off until Oct. 10.

Logano captures Cup playoff victory in race at Bristol Carson Hocevar and Ryan Blaney fought afterward The Associated Press BRISTOL, Tenn. — Joey Logano won the Cup Series race Saturday at Bristol Motor Speedway, while the driver he passed for the win stole the show with old-school NASCAR feuding and fisticuffs. Carson Hocevar, a brash 23-year-old who has earned the ire of veterans with his aggressive driving, traded punches in the pits with Ryan Blaney after they were involved in an incident while racing for second with 41 laps left. Hocevar stopped his car after finishing third and was greeted by a shove from Blaney. The 6-foot-4 Hocevar, who stands several inches taller than Blaney, responded with two overhand rights. The first knocked off Blaney’s hat, and the second connected with Blaney’s left cheek. Blaney fell to the pavement and then scrambled to his feet and out of a crew member’s hold while Hocevar raised his arms and pointed at him. Blaney charged and threw a wild left that knocked off Hocevar’s hat. They then were separated by

team members as Blaney continued to yell at Hocevar. “There wasn’t a whole lot of talking,” Hocevar said. “He just kind of said one thing and then went after me, and I wasn’t going to take it. I got ran into a lot for the win. That was for second, and he wants to come fight. They got an old-school Bristol show here.” The contact between the drivers started shortly after Blaney took second with an outside pass of Hocevar, who immediately slid his No. 77 Chevrolet down the track. Blaney moved low to block, and Hocevar stayed in the accelerator to knock the No. 12 Ford into a spin that ended in the inside wall. “I don’t know what I did wrong there,” Hocevar said. “I crossed him over and looked like he spun himself, and then he wants to instigate a fight. I was going to finish that, and it seemed like the crowd was pretty pumped up, so I was going to play the audience for a second.” Blaney, who led a race-high 202 laps despite starting 29th, was already frustrated after falling into heavy traffic because of a penalty for a pit lane violation with just over 100 laps remaining. His rally was cut short by the crash that dropped him to sixth in the Chase stand-

ings with his second consecutive finish outside the top 30. In an interview during the race, Blaney said, “I tried to protect the bottom, he crossed and never lifted, and I got crashed.” When asked which driver was at fault, Blaney said, “I don’t (expletive) know. Each person is going to say they did nothing wrong.” Kyle Larson finished second to move into the Chase lead by a point over Denny Hamlin. Christopher Bell was fourth, followed by Ty Gibbs, who led 120 laps before finishing fifth. Gibbs and Hocevar exchanged the lead four times in the final 100 laps. Their battle for first after a restart with nine laps remaining opened the door for Logano, who zipped past Hocevar and led the final seven laps. With his 40th career victory and third this season, Logano became the winningest Cup Series driver for Team Penske and moved into third place in the Chase points standings. But he realized all of those accomplishments would be eclipsed by videos of the Blaney-Hocevar fight that he still had yet to see. “I’m sure I’ll see it all week long,” Logano said, pausing to add with a laugh. “They’ll probably forget who won the race.”

WADE PAYNE / AP PHOTO

Ty Gibbs (54) leads Carson Hocevar (77), Kyle Larson (5) and Ryan Blaney (12) during Saturday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Bristol.

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After ‘Educated,’ Westover revisits family split in new memoir ‘Brothers and Sisters’ The book will arrive April 13, 2027 By Hillel Italie The Associated Press NEW YORK — Nearly 10 years after the publication of the million-selling “Educated,” Tara Westover is returning with a second memoir in which she reflects on the fallout from her celebrated and controversial debut. Random House announced last Thursday that “Brothers and Sisters” will come out on April 13. It’s her follow-up to “Educated,” which was released in 2018 and became one of the most talked-about memoirs of its time. Westover’s account of growing up as the youngest of seven siblings in a Mormon survivalist family in Idaho, the physical abuse allegedly suffered at the hands of an older brother and her eventual break from her family spent more than two years on The New York Times’ nonfiction bestseller list. Winning wide acclaim, it was chosen by the National Book Critics Circle as a finalist in two awards categories and praised by Bill Gates and former President Barack Obama, both of whom placed it on their lists of favorite books of 2018. In “Brothers and Sisters,” Westover writes about her parents’ disputing her memories and her sibling’s denying events in “Educated” that

EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION VIA AP PHOTO

Author Tara Westover attends the TIME100 Gala in New York in 2022.

“Ultimately, it is a story of what it means to grow up — to outlive the story that made you.” Random House they had previously confirmed. According to Random House, the new book considers questions such as “Who gets to say what happened?” and “How do you believe yourself when your parents say you’re lying?” “’Brothers and Sisters’ is a story of how memories are held in a family. How someone

can know you are telling the truth but still say you are lying,” the publisher’s announcement reads in part. “Ultimately, it is a story of what it means to grow up — to outlive the story that made you.” Westover, who turns 40 later this month, was admitted to Brigham Young University as a scholarship student and later received a doctorate in intellectual history from Trinity College in Cambridge, England. In 2021, then-President Joe Biden awarded her a National Humanities Medal for serving “as a powerful example of how the humanities can set people — and a Nation — free.”

SOLUTIONS FOR THIS WEEK

Burna Boy to headline halftime at NFL’s first regular-season game in Paris The Jonas Brothers performed at the league’s game in Melbourne By Jonathan Landrum Jr. The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — Burna Boy is returning to Stade de France for another historic moment, headlining halftime at the NFL’s first regular-season game in Paris. The Grammy-winning Nigerian star will perform Oct. 25 when the Pittsburgh Steelers face the New Orleans Saints at Stade de France, the league announced Thursday. The performance marks a return to the stadium for Burna Boy, who last year became the first African artist to headline Stade de France. “Paris gave me one of the biggest nights of my career, and to walk back into Stade de France for a moment like this means everything,” Burna Boy told The Associated Press in a statement. “The NFL is bringing something to France that has never happened here before, and I get to stand in the middle of it rep-

“Paris gave me one of the biggest nights of my career.” Burna Boy resenting African music and I intend to give the people a show they will not forget.” The Paris game is part of the NFL’s largest international season to date, with games being played across several countries and four continents. The league is staging a record seven halftime shows as it increasingly pairs its overseas games with major music acts. Burna Boy joins a lineup that includes Ricky Martin and Pedro Sampaio for the NFL’s Rio de Janeiro game on Sept. 27, Ayra Starr in London on Oct. 11, Cage the Elephant in Munich on Nov. 15 and Mexican rock trio The Warning in Mexico City on Nov. 22. “The first NFL game in France deserves a halftime moment that matches the occasion, and there is no artist better suited to it than Bur-

na Boy,” said Tim Tubito, the NFL’s senior director of global game presentation, music and entertainment. Tubito said Burna Boy’s history in the stadium and the popularity of African music in Paris made him a natural choice for the inaugural game. Burna Boy, whose music draws from Afrobeats, hiphop, reggae, R&B and other influences, won a Grammy for his 2020 album “Twice as Tall.” His catalog includes “African Giant,” “Love, Damini” and his most recent album, “No Sign of Weakness.” He has also become one of African music’s most prominent touring acts, performing in arenas and stadiums around the world while helping open doors for a generation of African artists. The league has played more than 60 regular-season games outside the United States, with previous stops including London, Munich, Frankfurt, Madrid, Dublin, São Paulo, Mexico City and Toronto. France, Australia and Rio de Janeiro are among the new markets on the 2026 schedule.

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famous birthdays this week Angie Dickinson turns 95, Johnny Mathis is 91, Michael Douglas hits 82, Mark Hamill celebrates 75 The Associated Press SEPT. 24 Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Greene is 80. Actor Gordon Clapp is 78. Actor Harriet Walter is 76. Filmmaker Brad Bird is 69. Actor Kevin Sorbo is 68. Actor-screenwriter Nia Vardalos is 64. Celebrity chef Robert Irvine is 61. SEPT. 25

JOEL C RYAN / AP PHOTO

Actor Naomi Watts turns 58 on Monday.

Basketball Hall of Famer Hubie Brown is 93. Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates is 83. Actor-producer Michael Douglas is 82. Model Cheryl Tiegs is 79. Actor Mark Hamill is 75. Basketball Hall of Famer Bob McAdoo is 75. Actor Heather Locklear is 65. Basketball Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen is 61. SEPT. 26 Country singer David Frizzell is 85. Singer Bryan Ferry is 81. Author Jane Smiley is 77. Singer-guitarist Cesar Rosas (Los Lobos) is 72. Actor Linda Hamilton is 70. Actor Jim Caviezel is 58. Tennis player Serena Williams is 45. SEPT. 27

PAUL A. HEBERT / INVISION / AP

Singer Johnny Mathis turns 91 on Wednesday. Young Jeezy is 49. TV personality Bam Margera (“Jackass”) is 47. Actor Hilary Duff is 39.

Singer-guitarist Randy Bachman of Bachman-Turner Overdrive is 83. Actor A Martinez is 78. Actor Liz Torres is 79. Singer-actor-director Shaun Cassidy is 68. Comedian and podcaster Marc Maron is 63. Singer-guitarist Stephan Jenkins of Third Eye Blind is 62. Actor Patrick Muldoon is 58. Actor Gwyneth Paltrow is 54. Rapper Lil’ Wayne is 44. Singer Avril Lavigne is 42.

SEPT. 29

SEPT. 28

SEPT. 30

Actor Vernee Watson (“Bob Hearts Abishola,” “Fresh Prince of Bel-Air”) is 77. Actor-comedian Janeane Garofalo is 62. Actor Mira Sorvino is 59. TV personality and singer Moon Zappa is 59. Actor Naomi Watts is 58. Rapper

Actor Angie Dickinson is 95. Singer Johnny Mathis is 91. Actor Barry Williams is 72. Actor Fran Drescher is 69. Actor Eric Stoltz is 65. Actor Monica Bellucci is 62. Actor Marion Cotillard is 51. Actor Kieran Culkin is 43. Rapper T-Pain is 42.

Actor Ian McShane is 84. TV personality Bryant Gumbel is 78. Singer-guitarist Mark Farner of Grand Funk Railroad is 78. Comedian Andrew “Dice” Clay is 69. Actor Jill Whelan is 60. Singer Devante Swing of Jodeci is 57. Actor Zachary Levi is 46. Actor Chrissy Metz is 46. Singer Halsey is 32.

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the stream

RICHARD SHOTWELL / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Chiwetel Ejiofor, left, and Kane Parsons arrive at the premiere of “Backrooms” on May 7 at Aero Theatre in Santa Monica, California.

‘A Different World,’ ‘Toy Story 5,’ Kenny Chesney Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson star in the comedy “Brothers” The Associated Press THE DISNEY+ debut of “Toy Story 5” and a new album from Kenny Chesney are some of the new television shows, 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: the “A Different World” sequel, “Backrooms” and “Silent Hill: Townfall.” MOVIES TO STREAM It might be great or terrible news for parents, depending on their views about screen time and whether movies are an exception, but “Toy Story 5” has finally made its way to Disney+. Appropriately, the film, co-written and directed by Andrew Stanton, pits toys against tech in the battle for Bonnie’s attention. In his review for The Associated Press, film writer Jake Coyle said, “It may fall shy of the first three and probably ranks as the fifth best of these movies. But ‘Toy Story’ has a high bar and the quality and thoughtfulness that have long distinguished Pixar is very much present here in the film.” Even if you didn’t catch “Backrooms” in theaters this summer, you probably heard something about its box-office success and the then-20-year-old YouTuber-turned-filmmaker Kane Parsons behind it. Coyle, in his review, wrote that “where ‘Backrooms’ came from is more interesting — and potentially meaningful — than the result,” calling it “a fitfully unsettling nightmare that never convincingly builds beyond its creepy, dated-decor premise.” It’ll be on HBO Max starting Friday. Leo Woodall plays a piano tuner who gets caught up in the criminal underworld, using his unique ears to crack safes in “Tuner,” a whip-smart, original thriller from Daniel Roher, the Oscar-winning filmmaker behind “Navalny.” I called it one of the best of the year so far, and a spiritual descendant of a “Good Will Hunting.” It is streaming on Paramount+. And finally, Jacob Tremblay plays Ted Kaczynski in “Unabomber,” which debuts Fri-

CJ RIVERA / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Singer Kenny Chesney performs on NBC’s “Today” at Rockefeller Plaza on Sept. 17 in New York. His 21st album, “Silver Sands Marina,” drops Friday.

“‘Backrooms’ is a fitfully unsettling nightmare that never convincingly builds beyond its creepy, dated-decor premise.” Jake Coye, AP Film Writer it is not. “Think I’m ‘bout to lose it, I don’t even care no more,” she sings in the song’s chorus. “I’m ‘bout to lose control.” CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Woody Harrelson, left, and Matthew McConaughey pose together at the premiere of the show “Brothers” last Thursday in Los Angeles. day on Netflix. The stacked cast includes Russell Crowe as a psychologist and Shailene Woodley as the FBI agent on the case. MUSIC TO STREAM He’s one of the most consistent giants in country music for a reason. Chesney will release his 21st studio album — you read that correctly — Friday, titled “Silver Sands Marina.” It’s full-throated stadium country, with big hooks and bigger heart. You know, like all the great Chesney records.

Introducing the new Tinashe, unlike the old Tinashe except for the swagger. Her last album, 2024’s “Quantum Baby,” was defined by its viral hit “Nasty.” But she’s not interested in flash-in-the-pan moments. Her latest, “Popstar,” can be described in one word: unexpected. From the sped-up “Melatonin” to the falsetto and Kesha-esque talk-sung chorus of “Too Easy” there is no pop experiment too off-kilter for Tinashe. And the courage pays off. Just don’t call it a complete 180: “Crash Out” is Tinashe at her R&B-pop best, but a love song

SERIES TO STREAM Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson play exaggerated versions of themselves in “Brothers,” an eight-episode comedy from “The Office” alum Lee Eisenberg. After Harrelson’s daughter’s wedding falls apart, he moves his family to McConaughey’s Austin ranch — only for McConaughey’s mother (played by Holland Taylor) to reveal a secret suggesting the lifelong buddies might be brothers. The series marks a rare return to comedy for Harrelson, whose work on the small screen since “Cheers” ended in 1993 has largely been drama, including “True Detective” and “White House Plumbers.” The first two episodes are now streaming on Apple TV. Nearly 40 years after the

original premiered, Netflix revives the beloved HBCU sitcom “A Different World” on Thursday. Maleah Joi Moon plays Deborah Wayne, the daughter of Whitley (Jasmine Guy) and Dwayne (Kadeem Hardison), who is starting her freshman year at their alma mater, Hillman College. Guy, Hardison, Jada Pinkett Smith and other original cast members return for the first season. In “S.W.A.T.: Exiles,” Shemar Moore returns as Sgt. Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson in a spinoff of the CBS procedural, which ended its eight-season run in 2025. Pulled from forced retirement after a mission goes wrong, Hondo takes charge of an experimental S.W.A.T. unit made up of young recruits. Starz has already renewed it for a second season. It premieres Friday. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY In 2019’s “Control,” a government agent explored the inside of a Manhattan skyscraper that had been warped by paranormal forces. Bad news, New Yorkers: In “Control Resonant,” the hostile entities have left the building and are running rampant across the borough. Good news: The agent now on the case has supernatural powers of his own, including the ability to wield a giant Thor-style hammer that shapeshifts into other weapons. Finland’s Remedy Entertainment is best known for its small-town “Alan Wake” thrillers; we’ll see how well the studio can translate that eeriness to the big city. Start spreading the news Thursday on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S or PC. One of the all-time great horror series made a spectacular return in 2025 with “Silent Hill f,” which moved the terror from its American roots to 1960s Japan. One year later, the nightmare is spreading to 1990s Scotland in “Silent Hill: Townfall.” This time, a guy named Simon finds himself in a foggy seaside village with no memory of how he got there — though he knows he has been summoned to “put things right.” As usual, you have just a few simple weapons to defend yourself against the zombies and other monsters roaming the streets. The miasma descends Thursday on PlayStation 5 and PC.

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 31 | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 | HOKE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM

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HOKE COUNTY THE HOKE COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

COURTESY

Remembering the missing Local veterans honored National POW/MIA Day on Friday in front of the Hoke County Courthouse. The white tablecloth symbolizes purity of service, the red rose signifies blood that has been shed, a slice of lemon represents the bitter fate of the missing, the salt represents the tears of the missing and their families, the inverted glass means they will not be dining and the candle lights the way home.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Trump signs U.S.Denmark-Greenland agreement to bolster Arctic security United Nations The United States, Denmark and Greenland have signed an agreement to strengthen security in the Arctic and North Atlantic. President Donald Trump signed the deal Tuesday on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York. Trump earlier announced he planned to bolster the U.S. military presence in Greenland while keeping it under Danish and Greenlandic control. Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire for Greenland to become part of the U.S., ramping up tension. The agreement recognizes Greenland’s sovereignty and aims to boost security for all parties involved. The U.S. military presence in Greenland has decreased significantly since 1945.

Flights disrupted across Northeast U.S. due to technical problems at key air traffic center Technicians have repaired data lines that failed at a key regional air traffic control center, and all major airports in the New York area began resuming operations after hundreds of flight cancellations rippled through the Northeast. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said in an online post that primary and backup telecom lines were fixed by Monday evening, allowing affected airports to resume operations. Hundreds of flights were canceled due to the issues.

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State grant to fund additional vehicles for HATS program The county will be on the hook for between $60,000 and $120,000 in local match By Ryan Henkel North State Journal RAEFORD — The Hoke County Board of Commissioners met Sept. 21 for its regular business meeting. The board had two grant items on the agenda, one dealing with emergency management and the other with transportation. The first was the awarding of a $20,000 Hazardous Materials Emergency Preparedness grant, which will be utilized to train local first responders for potential interactions with hazardous materials. The second was a HATS Community Transportation grant, which will cover ad-

ministrative costs as well as acquisition costs for three new vehicles (two light transit replacement vehicles and a van) in FY 2028. In total, the state will be offering around $530,000 to the county, with a required local match from the county of about $60,000. “It’s a great program,” said Vice Chair Harry Southerland. “We’re going to be able to get some vehicles out of this as well as money for admin, but I want us to understand and be transparent that if the state does not meet its obligation, that the county will then have to step in and pay more money.” The board approved the acceptance of both grants. The board also approved a budgetary transfer of $55,000 for the Hoke County Sheriff’s Office to fund overtime payments for employees at the Hoke County Jail.

“This is temporary while still looking at the budget,” said Capt. Sanura Willis-Smith. “What we’re doing right now internally is hiring to cut down some of that overtime because right now, being short, we’re using officers on a volunteer basis, and that’s why we’re running into this already.” In addition, the board approved an approximately $50,000 transfer to fund overtime payments for Hoke County Sheriff’s deputies. According to Maj. Steven Blakley, the transfer will only cover costs through October. Finally, the board approved a $50,000 payment to cover increased costs related to the Lindsay Road utility replacement. “We have a contract with DOT on the widening of Lindsay Road and with the reloca-

Hoke County Schools do not require EMS at athletic events The district uses Emergency Action Plans to coordinate EMS coverage when needed By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal HIGH SCHOOL sports games in Hoke County Schools are not required to have an EMS ambulance or EMS personnel present at athletic events, according to district personnel. “All coaches are required to be CPR and AED certified,” said Director of Athletics Antonio Covington. “Our coaches also are required to have

training each year on the concussion protocol and hydration and heat injury training. Additionally, our coaches undergo a mental health training to recognize potential issues.” Covington added that a rescue squad is present at home varsity football games to assist with first responding. The school district relies on certified athletic trainers and Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) for other athletic events. Hoke County Schools are required to develop Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) for each high school. EAPs have an individualized plan that includes the layout and EMS

“Our coaches also are required to have training each year on the concussion protocol and hydration and heat injury training.” Antonio Covington, Director Of Athletics entry points for every athletic venue and assigns duties during a crisis for who performs medical evaluations, initiates CPR and calls emergency services.

“It’s a great program and we’re going to be able to get some vehicles out of this as well as money for admin.” Vice Chair Harry Southerland tion of the utilities,” said County Manager Letitia Edens. “Locklear and Jacobs is having to do additional work for them, and they are requesting that we do an additional $50,000 for them to continue doing that widening project.” The costs will be completely covered by NCDOT through reimbursement payments, but the county had to approve the funding as a pass through. The Hoke County Board of Commissioners will next meet Oct. 5.

The district also maintains dedicated sports medicine departments and uses platforms such as FinalForms, which tracks student athlete health requirements to have medical information on hand. Hoke County High School’s EAP identifies who provides immediate first aid — typically a certified athletic trainer, sports medicine staff member or trained coaching personnel. Individuals who call 911 and direct emergency services to the scene are also identified. The EAP additionally details phone locations, emergency numbers, emergency equipment and the transport plan for ambulances and the closest receiving hospital. The district’s EAPs are regularly updated and reviewed by a licensed athletic trainer, as required by the North Carolina High School Athletic Association Health and Safety Guidelines.

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

THURSDAY

9.24.26

Raccoon boot camp in Mississippi teaches abandoned kits survival skills Graduating raccoons are released to the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance”

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North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Trip Hoffend, Publisher Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers Cory Lavalette, Senior Editor Jordan Golson, Local News Editor Shawn Krest, Sports Editor Dan Reeves, Features Editor Ryan Henkel, Reporter 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

are skills raccoons would likely learn on their own, Woodside’s staff hopes the training gives the kits a greater chance of survival. On the property’s pond, the raccoons learn to swim, a critical skill in hurricane-prone south Mississippi. The rehabbers take to kayaks and encourage the kits to swim back and forth. They also take trips to the deep woods, where kits learn to run from tree to tree to avoid being seen by birds of prey and to have a quick escape route from snakes or other dangers on the ground.

By Sophie Bates The Associated Press PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. — Muddy, sweat-soaked and occasionally bloody, the dedicated staff at a Mississippi wildlife center are drill sergeants. And their soldiers? Baby raccoons. Welcome to raccoon boot camp, where the goal is to help sick or injured animals learn to survive in the south Mississippi wilderness — a skill set they would have learned from their mothers, most of whom died or were separated from their kits by storms, traffic incidents or other traumatic events. It’s a challenge that’s left Woodside Wildlife Rescue’s founder, Paula Woodside, with cuts from scared, defensive raccoons and their sharp claws, and when she isn’t able to save a kit, emotional scars too. “When these babies come in and they’re so desperate, it’s heartbreaking,” said Woodside, who most days is covered in sweat from caring for the animals in the Mississippi heat and dirt from curious kits crawling up her legs and onto her shoulders. “It’s really important for them to get a little bit of a head start.” Wildlife rescue staff teach raccoons by example Woodside, a former U.S. merchant mariner, opened the rescue in 2019 after she helped rehabilitate a baby raccoon found aboard her ship. The rescue in the coastal city of Pass Christian typically raises dozens of kits each year, 76 so far this year, alongside other indigenous wildlife. City animal control and citi-

Raccoons graduate to “Pomp and Circumstance Marches” SOPHIE BATES / AP PHOTO

A raccoon kit digs through water and mud at Woodside Wildlife Rescue in Pass Christian, Mississippi, on Sept. 1. zens call Woodside, or the rescue’s director, Raquel Priest, when they find a raccoon in need of saving. Together, they attempt to reunite the kits with their mothers, if they can find them, or bring the kits to the rescue. The youngest raccoons will spend a few weeks mostly indoors being bottle-fed by rehabbers until they’re vaccinated for diseases carried by cat colonies and dogs and are ready to move to outdoor pens. Though the kits stay close to their adoptive human parents, they’re eventually allowed to roam free during the day on the rescue’s rural 20-acre property, a sprawling mix of meadows and thick forest spotted with ponds and a nearby river. Thanks to that setting, Woodside and Priest can take their troops on learning excursions, a luxury many wildlife rescues don’t have, Woodside said.

Tiny wild cat newly identified as species draws visitors in Bolivia The easily stressed feline is the first wild cat species newly described in more than a century The Associated Press COROICO, Bolivia — A tiny wild cat hidden away in the cloud forests of Bolivia has become an unlikely tourist attraction, drawing a stream of visitors hoping for a glimpse of the

animal that scientists have identified as a brand new species. There is just one problem: Tigrino, as he has been affectionately dubbed, doesn’t like the attention. The small, spotted feline with large, leopardlike spots is easily stressed, so caretakers at the wildlife sanctuary near La Paz keep him out of public view, turning away the crowds eager for a closer look. When The Associated Press visited Sun-

day, Tigrino cautiously emerged from his shelter, sniffed the air and paced around for a few minutes before slipping back into the foliage. Tigrino belongs to Leopardus tilcayo, the first living wild cat species described by scientists in more than a century. At just 18 inches from head to the base of his tail and 3 pounds, he is smaller than the average house cat. The discovery published

Woodside and Priest teach by example. They hide worms in the dirt to show the kits how to dig for food and break open pine cones or acorns to reveal the seeds inside. The raccoons’ eyes light up when they encounter a new tasty food, and they run to show their discovery to their rehabbers before hurrying back to fend off other kits who might try to steal their find. Where a drill sergeant might yell, ‘Attention!’ Priest and Woodside give a shrill trilling sound, mimicking the raccoon call for danger, that sends the kits running up trees to safety. A short whistle lets the troops know the coast is clear. The kits also practice fishing in shallow pools, their uncoordinated paws tentatively patting the water until they’re quick enough to snag a snack. A live quail hunt provides hunting experience. While these

Thursday in the journal Current Biology set off a flurry of excitement on social media. Visitors from across Bolivia and beyond have flocked to the Senda Verde Wildlife Sanctuary, where Tigrino has lived since 2017, when a family brought him there after trying unsuccessfully to make a house cat of him. “Tigrino has become, in just a few days, an ambassador for conservation,” said sanctuary co-founder Marcelo Levy, adding that the new species designation has helped raise awareness about the need to protect wild cats and their habitat in Bolivia’s tropical forests. “He’s such a tiny animal, and he has become something so important,” Levy said.

For their final lesson, a volunteer — who isn’t Woodside or Priest — traps the raccoons in cages, scaring them enough to encourage them to avoid traps and humans. The experience helps the young raccoons wean themselves from their human rescuers, a process Priest said naturally occurs as they mature. When a group of kits is ready for release, about six months after their rescue, Woodside and Priest host a graduation ceremony. They play Edward Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance Marches” and read a roll call of each graduating kit’s name. A reverend then blesses their journey as they’re released onto a different section of the rescue’s forest-covered property. For kits that die in care, the staff holds a second ceremony to bless and scatter their ashes. “It’s like watching your children leave home,” Priest said. “It’s important to see them prosper and go and be the mischievous creatures they were meant to be.”

JUAN KARITA / AP PHOTO

A small spotted wild cat identified as a new species, Leopardus tilcayo, walks inside Senda Verde wildlife sanctuary in Bolivia’s Yungas region near Coroico on Sunday.

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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

COLUMN | SUSAN MILLS

Get to know the real Michael Whatley Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics.

I HAVE KEPT SILENT hoping people will educate themselves before voting, but I still see fellow Republicans trying to tear down a good person. I was elected NCGOP vice chair to serve with Michael Whatley. I worked with him closely for over three years. He is a man of faith, family and freedom. He loves his beautiful family and would never put his children in harm’s way by “hiring” a person that preys on children. He did not hire Harvey West. Harvey was elected by his constituents in the 1st District. Harvey was already a member of the Plan of Organization Committee when Whatley became chair of the NCGOP. Many people are kept on committees to allow their knowledge of how the committee works to be passed down to new members. There was nothing strange about keeping Harvey on that committee. Look at organizations in your community, state and country. Do you throw out all their institutional knowledge to bring on someone that is new and has no idea of where to begin?

Whatley is a man of faith. We started each meeting, event, dinner with a prayer. He is a God-fearing person. He always wanted to do what was right, and he did. No one is perfect, so stop looking for perfection in anyone! Whatley loves the people of North Carolina and of this great country. I have seen it firsthand. He doesn’t put himself first. It’s the folks of N.C. who he put first and always will. He is a man of his word and not a person that lies. We need Whatley in the U.S. Senate. Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics — the Democratic candidate did that! As a person that has worked closely with him and considers him a close friend, I ask you to vote for Michael Whatley for U.S. Senate! Susan Mills is a public high school teacher who lives in Fayetteville.

COLUMN | DANIEL MCCARTHY

The immigration politics of a felon’s pardon “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that.

HOW FAR will New York Gov. Kathy Hochul go to keep immigrant criminals in this country? So far, she’ll even pardon a man convicted of an aggravated felony if that’s what it takes to prevent the United States Supreme Court from setting a restrictionist precedent. Keisy Guerrero Mariano is a Dominican who spent two years in prison for committing a violent crime: second-degree assault. Mariano, known as “G.M.” in court documents, is exactly the sort of lawbreaker Americans overwhelmingly want to see deported. But not Hochul — she granted him clemency Aug. 28. His case stood out from those of the other five people she pardoned that day: The others were nonviolent offenders who’d committed their crimes decades ago: two in the 1980s, two in the ’90s, and just one as recently as 2007. G.M. was convicted in 2015. The governor decided he merited special leniency, for political reasons. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested G.M. in 2020, intending to deport him based on his criminal record. ICE had to let him go in 2022, however, because of a nationwide injunction related to COVID-19 that required the agency to review custody of individuals with certain medical conditions. While ICE had him, though, G.M.’s lawyers challenged the agency’s right to hold him for a prolonged time without a bond hearing. That’s what Hochul’s pardon is really about — the Trump administration planned to make the Dominican’s appeals a test case before the U.S. Supreme Court, one likely to establish that G.M. and others like him are not entitled to a bond hearing. Bond hearings are an easily exploited weakness in America’s immigration security, not only protracting the legal process of deporting lawbreakers but also giving them an opportunity to get out of detention temporarily — and then permanently fail to show up when they’re due for their next hearing. G.M. came to this country legally in 2011, but he forfeited any right to remain here once he committed a felony. Only now Hochul has nullified his conviction to undercut

ICE’s grounds for removing him and collapse the appeals process that was leading to the Supreme Court — and to a probable defeat for those who want to make deportation as difficult as possible. The governor isn’t looking out for New Yorkers here: Her maneuver is about liberal politicians’ zeal for maximum immigration, even when it means letting violent criminals remain in our communities. This is the second lucky break Hochul’s side has had recently. The other test case the Trump administration had teed up, involving a Jamaican national convicted (also in New York) of sexually abusing a child under the age of 11, has been taken out of the courts as well after the offender left the country and filed a court declaration saying he would not be coming back to America. Self-deportation is one way to get immigrants convicted of heinous crimes out of here. But ICE can’t deport someone who has already deported himself, so his claim of a right to a bond hearing is now completely moot. The big question still has to be answered, though: Can immigration enforcement detain these violent perps and sex offenders until they can be tossed out? Or if they’ve been in custody for a while, are they entitled to bond hearings that will further delay their removal — and give them the chance to escape back into Americans’ neighborhoods? Solicitor General John Sauer says he’s not going to let Hochul’s gambit succeed. G.M.’s case may have been pulled, but Sauer aims to find another that will bring the fight to the Supreme Court. “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that — even a legal immigrant who commits a serious offense ought to be expelled promptly, and he shouldn’t get the benefit of a bond hearing just because his case takes longer than it should and he winds up in “prolonged” detention. He shouldn’t get the benefit of a liberal governor’s partisan machinations either. New Yorkers — American citizens — elected Hochul, and she should put them first, not foreigners who commit crimes while they’re here, legally or otherwise. Daniel McCarthy is the editor of Modern Age: A Conservative Review. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Rising gas prices frustrate voters; Trump says it’s ‘inexpensive price to pay’ for Iran war The frustration spans party lines and could hurt Republicans in midterm voting By Steve Peoples, Jesse Bedayn and Jonathan J. Cooper The Associated Press EDINBURG, Texas — Quinten Martinez, pumping gas under a hot South Texas sun, remembers a time when fueling up didn’t require difficult decisions. “Is it going to be groceries this week?” asked the 28-year-old Amazon delivery driver as he watched the numbers tick higher. “Is it gonna be getting gas in our tank to go to work?” He shook his head when asked about President Donald Trump’s assertion last week that higher gas prices are a small price to pay for the war with Iran. “I don’t feel like it’s a good trade-off,” Martinez said. “I don’t feel like this is good for anyone.” Voters across the country, and across the political spectrum, tend to agree. Interviews with voters in several states, along with a fresh round of national polling, reveal an overwhelming sense of frustration that skyrocketing gas prices — a direct result of Trump’s war — are creating serious and sustained financial hardships for America’s working class. The acute concerns are adding to a bad political environment that may be worsening for Trump and his Republican Party as early voting gets underway in the November midterm elections. Historically, the party holding the White House has suffered major losses in midterms. Today, seven weeks before Election Day, Republican candidates at all levels are struggling with the additional burden of Trump’s weak approval ratings, an unpopular foreign conflict and an affordability crisis that Trump and his congressional allies had promised to fix. But when Trump campaigned in Gastonia last Wednesday, he played down the impact of surging gas prices. “You have a little higher. It’s a very inexpensive price to pay for what we’ve done,” Trump said of the war, which he describes as critical to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. “Remember that. It’s a little more. Frankly, even if it was a lot more.” “Gas prices matter,” Republican strategist says Despite what Trump says, there are few things that may matter more this election year than the price of a gallon of gasoline, according to political operatives in both parties. Gas prices are moving sharply in the wrong direction at a time of year when drivers typically get some relief. The national average for a gallon of gas reached $4.48 last Friday, according to AAA, up roughly 17 cents over the last

NAM Y. HUH / AP PHOTO

A customer checks gas price while he fills up his vehicle’s tank at a gas station, in Streamwood, Illinois, on Sept. 16. week, 40 cents in a month and $1.27 from a year ago. “Gas prices matter because they’re one of the few economic indicators voters experience and see in real time,” said veteran Republican strategist Chris Wilson. “The price is literally staring them in the face several times a week. So I wouldn’t minimize the frustration we’re seeing, particularly among working- and middle-class voters.” Interviews with voters this week found bipartisan frustration and disappointment. Democrats and independents were especially motivated to punish Republicans at the ballot box for their economic hardship, while some of Trump’s working-class supporters pledged to support Republicans this fall, even if they weren’t happy with the president’s leadership on the economy. Some Republicans say they’re disappointed Dan Lloyd, who voted for Trump, lamented the president’s leadership as the 63-year-old carpenter paid $4.39 a gallon to fill up his pickup truck in Mesa, Arizona. “He hurt himself stepping into this,” Lloyd said of Trump. “Where’s all this oil from Venezuela? I thought we were flush with gas and everything, but no. The American people eat it every time, whether it’s interest rates, food, gasoline.” Still, he expects to vote Republican in the midterms. “I think the Democratic Party has lost its way,” Lloyd said. “I just feel like the whole system’s on the verge of collapse.” In sweltering Edinburg, Texas, 52-year-old Kristin Jimenez

shrugged off the rising price of gas after filling up her Mercedes. “We’ve paid the same price under Republican presidents, we’ve paid this price under Democrat presidents,” said Jimenez, a mother who runs a small business. She plans to vote for a Republican because they’re the “lesser of two evils.” She said gas prices aren’t part of her calculation. “We don’t mind paying $8 for a cup of coffee at Starbucks, but we have a problem paying four bucks at the pump?” she said. “Make it make sense.” More than 1,500 miles to the north in central Michigan, 35-year-old Garth Johnson is trying to make ends meet running a deep-cleaning business with several gas-powered vehicles and one machine fueled by diesel, which was $6.79 a gallon as he filled up his SUV. Johnson voted for Trump, but doesn’t know what he’s going to do in November. Johnson doesn’t feel qualified to second-guess the president’s evaluation of the war, but he’s feeling financial pressure in his own life. “I like a lot of the things he’s done,” Johnson said but added, “I’m a little guy, and I’ve got to live my life.” Other voters not so forgiving Midterm voting was already underway last Friday in Virginia, where 60-year-old engineer Alan Johnson said Trump seems to have “no empathy” for Americans who are struggling financially. “With the gas prices being what they are and continuing to grow, we’ve got to do something. Hopefully the Democrats can

“Gas prices matter because they’re one of the few economic indicators voters experience and see in real time. The price is literally staring them in the face several times a week.” Chris Wilson, Republican strategist get into office and turn the ship around,” said Johnson, who cast ballots in the morning for Democrats for the U.S. Senate and U.S. House. In Raleigh, teacher Brittney Bivins sees surging gas prices as evidence that Trump and his Republican Party aren’t dealing with the issues that matter most to people like her. “He really doesn’t care about everyday people,” the 45-year-old said. “He can afford the gas, but most of us can’t. So it feels like he’s not even connected to his own people.” Bivins, who described herself as an independent, said she’s eager to support Democrats this fall — especially the party’s emerging democratic socialist wing. At a gas station in Lansing, Michigan, Rina Risper spent $50 on eight gallons of premium gas. “When I rolled up I was in shock, actually, and said, ‘Well, maybe I should drink water instead of having that $4.99 bottle of whatever it was I was gonna get,’” Risper said. She thinks Trump’s tariffs will make affordability even worse.

“We’re not in Miami. We’re in Lansing, Michigan,” she said. “It’s really going to impact our people.” Most voters think Trump’s administration has made economy worse, poll shows Nationwide, more than three times as many voters say they are falling behind financially as getting ahead, according to a Fox News survey released Wednesday. By a 15% margin, Democrats are considered the party that would better handle inflation and prices at a time when the cost of living and the economy are voters’ top concerns. The Fox poll found that 61% of voters say gas prices are a major problem for their household, compared with 48% two years ago, while 52% say the same for healthcare costs, compared with 44% in 2024. Majorities also view housing costs and grocery prices as major problems, although neither has increased. Overall, nearly two-thirds of voters (63%) say the administration has made the economy worse, compared with 52% in September 2025, including one-quarter of Republicans. Only 46% of Republicans say the administration has improved the economy, while about one-quarter don’t see an impact. Back in rural South Texas, an area where Trump’s GOP made gains in recent elections, Martinez, the Amazon delivery driver, could not contain his frustration. Trump “likes to tout that we are the best economy in the world,” said Martinez, but in more rural towns, “you don’t see any of the winning, you don’t see any of the ups that he’s talking about.”

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9/7/22 3:42 PM

HOKE SPORTS ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Hoke County girls’ golf team The Bucks are back out on the golf course. For the first time in five years, the Hoke County girls’ golf team is competing. The Lady Bucks played their first match at Fayetteville’s King’s Grant Golf Club and have played two more times since. The team is coached by Ivan Street and Kristen Danet, and the members of the team, all learning golf as they represent the school, are Ella Williams, Scarlet Wright, Ava Gibson, Madison OQuinn, AmberLynn Bullock and Audrianna Castellanos.

HOKE COUNTY GOLF / FACEBOOK

Logano claims Cup Series playoff victory at Bristol Carson Hocevar and Ryan Blaney fought afterward

“There wasn’t a whole lot of talking,”

The Associated Press

Carson Hocevar

BRISTOL, Tenn. — Joey Logano won the Cup Series race Saturday at Bristol Motor Speedway, while the driver he passed for the win stole the show with old-school NASCAR feuding and fisticuffs. Carson Hocevar, a brash 23-year-old who has earned the ire of veterans with his aggressive driving, traded punches in the pits with Ryan Blaney after they were involved in an incident while racing for second with 41 laps left. Hocevar stopped his car after finishing third and was greeted by a shove from Blaney. The 6-foot-4 Hocevar, who stands several inches taller than Blaney, responded with two overhand rights. The first knocked off Blaney’s hat, and the second connected with Blaney’s left cheek. Blaney fell to the pavement and then scrambled to his feet and out of a crew member’s hold while Hocevar raised his arms and pointed at him. Blaney charged and threw a wild left that knocked off Hocevar’s hat. They then were separated by team members as Blaney continued to yell at Hocevar.

“There wasn’t a whole lot of talking,” Hocevar said. “He just kind of said one thing and then went after me, and I wasn’t going to take it. I got ran into a lot for the win. That was for second, and he wants to come fight. They got an old-school Bristol show here.” The contact between the drivers started shortly after Blaney took second with an outside pass of Hocevar, who immediately slid his No. 77 Chevrolet down the track. Blaney moved low to block, and Hocevar stayed in the accelerator to knock the No. 12 Ford into a spin that ended in the inside wall. “I don’t know what I did wrong there,” Hocevar said. “I crossed him over and looked like he spun himself, and then he wants to instigate a fight. I was going to finish that, and it seemed like the crowd was pretty pumped up, so I was going to play the audience for a second.” Blaney, who led a race-high 202 laps despite starting 29th, was already frustrated after falling into heavy traffic because of a penalty for a pit lane violation with just over 100 laps remain-

ing. His rally was cut short by the crash that dropped him to sixth in the Chase standings with his second consecutive finish outside the top 30. In an interview during the race, Blaney said, “I tried to protect the bottom, he crossed and never lifted, and I got crashed.” When asked which driver was at fault, Blaney said, “I don’t (expletive) know. Each person is going to say they did nothing wrong.” Kyle Larson finished second to move into the Chase lead by a point over Denny Hamlin. Christopher Bell was fourth, followed by Ty Gibbs, who led 120 laps before finishing fifth. Gibbs and Hocevar exchanged the lead four times in the final 100 laps. Their battle for first after a restart with nine laps remaining opened the door for Logano, who zipped past Hocevar and led the final seven laps. With his 40th career victory and third this season, Logano became the winningest Cup Series driver for Team Penske and moved into third place in the Chase points standings. But he realized all of those accomplishments would be eclipsed by videos of the Blaney-Hocevar fight that he still had yet to see. “I’m sure I’ll see it all week long,” Logano said, pausing to add with a laugh. “They’ll probably forget who won the race.”

Hoke inducts Class of ‘26 into Hall of Fame Eight former standouts were honored North State Journal staff HOKE COUNTY High School held its 15th annual induction ceremony for the Athletic Hall of Fame last Friday, prior to the football team’s 27-26 overtime loss to Forest Hills. Eight Hoke County legends received the honor. Jimmy “Peter” Maynor received the Legacy Award. He was a 1966 graduate of Upchurch High School, where he played baseball, basketball, football and track. His nickname was earned because of his speed and shortened from “Peter Rabbit.” He went on to coach baseball, basketball and football in the area. Roger Edwards received the Roll of Honor designation for his four-plus decades serving the district. He began as a teacher and also coached both football and baseball. He went on to serve two stints as principal and also served as assistant superintendent. Rosalind Day Patterson was a basketball, softball and volleyball standout at Hoke. She was a two-time volleyball MVP and was named the school’s Female Athlete of the Year. Jevon Johnson was a 2005 Hoke grad who played four

sports: football, basketball, baseball and track, earning all-conference honors in all four. He was named Hoke County Male Athlete of the Year as a senior and went on to compete in college track at UNC Pembroke and play arena football. Earl Wolff was a 2008 graduate who played football, basketball and track for the Bucks. In football, he earned multiple team MVP awards and was all-conference on both sides of the ball. He was also all-state in the long jump and triple jump. He went on to play football at NC State and for four teams in the NFL. Robert Purcell was a 2008 graduate who played soccer, track, tennis and basketball. He was a two-time Male Athlete of the Year. He was a soccer player of the year and all-region, becoming the first Bucks player to compete in the EastWest All-Star soccer game. He was also a conference champion hurdler and all-conference tennis player. David Patterson was a 1975 graduate who became the first black quarterback in Hoke County history. He later transitioned to an all-conference running back. He also played basketball and ran track at Hoke and later coached. Patrick Morrisey was a former basketball standout for the Bucks.

SPORTS BLAST / FACEBOOK

Six members of the Hoke Hall of Fame Class of 2026 are honored at halftime. Left to right: Robert Purcell, Jevon Johnson, Rosalind Day Patterson, Earl Wolff, Patrick Morrisey and Roger Edwards.

B2 SIDELINE REPORT NFL

NFL says teams can’t sign Harris, Wright after attempts to play for LSU New York The NFL has sent a memo to each of its teams saying Zxavian Harris and Dae’Quan Wright are not eligible to join any NFL teams this season after they attempted to return to college and play for LSU. Harris and Wright both played for Mississippi last season and had tryouts in the NFL this summer after going undrafted. They then tried joining former Ole Miss coach Lane Kiffin at LSU and sued for the right to regain their college eligibility. LSU left both players off its roster as it opened its season.

MLB

Paralyzed A’s minor leaguer Lasko leaves hospital West Orange, N.J. Ryan Lasko, a minor league prospect with the Athletics who was paralyzed in an outfield collision more than two months ago, was released from an in-patient rehabilitation hospital to continue his recovery from home. The 24-year-old Lasko was released exactly two months after arriving at the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation in New Jersey. It’s about 35 miles from where he attended college at Rutgers and became a second-round draft pick by the A’s in 2023.

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Avs’ 41-year-old defenseman Burns trimmed beard, not ambition The former Hurricane enters 23rd season

Colorado Avalanche defenseman Brent Burns smiles at his teammates at the end of game in March.

By Pat Graham The Associated Press ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The famed bushy beard of Brent Burns was neatly groomed. His hair, too. When he smiled, front teeth gleamed in the gap where he once had none. It’s a fresh look as the 41-year-old Colorado Avalanche defenseman embarks on his 23rd NHL season. But he’s still the colorful character they refer to as “Burnsy,” the one who’s still up for the grind as he chases his first Stanley Cup title. The one who took a young player under his wing this summer and invited him into his house. The one who doesn’t focus on the possibility of breaking the league’s all-time ironman streak, which, health willing, could happen in February. “I’m trying to figure out what stick I’m going to use tomorrow, what I’m going to eat tonight,” said Burns, who has played in 1,007 straight regular-season games and sits 57 away from tying the mark of Phil Kessel. “I don’t really think about all the other stuff.” Retirement didn’t even really cross his mind after the Avalanche were swept by Vegas in the Western Conference final. He signed another one-year deal in late June and was right back to training. His superpower, according to teammate Brock Nelson, is his ability to stay young at heart. “I don’t think he strikes anybody as a 41-year-old. He still seems like an 18-, 19-year-old

ERIN HOOLEY / AP PHOTO

kid,” the 34-year-old Nelson said. “Just having fun, always laughing and having a good time.” Chasing Kessel’s ironman streak Kessel’s consecutive games streak stands at 1,064 and took place from Nov. 3, 2009, to April 13, 2023. Should Burns remain in the lineup, he could tie the mark Feb. 13 at Tampa Bay and break it two days later in front of the home crowd against Columbus. “I’m not going to be the guy that breaks that streak,” Avs coach Jared Bednar said. “I’ve got way too much respect for him, for what he’s done in his career, and for what he’s doing for us on a daily basis. He’s proven to me that he deserves to be in our lineup. I’m hoping that he can stay healthy and get it. I wish him the best of luck, and I just hope his health holds up.”

“Just trying to stay afloat most of the time — and figure out what’s for dinner.” Brent Burns Bednar added that Burns returned this season in “phenomenal condition.” “It’s not just the beard that’s making him look younger — or lack of a beard — I think he’s in great condition.” But there’s another factor that goes into keeping the streak going: good fortune. That’s why he doesn’t fret about it. “There’s just too much that can happen,” said Burns, whose streak began on Nov. 21, 2013, while with San Jose. “If you start thinking about that, (expletive) will happen. I’m not really lying, I don’t really think about it.

“Just trying to stay afloat most of the time — and figure out what’s for dinner.” A long season He embraces the grind of a long season, which he still relishes. “I must,” he said, referring to his longevity. As for his groomed beard, he said, “it’s a little different, for sure.” But he found an advantage: The trim makes him more aerodynamic on the ice to keep up with the youngsters. “You’ve got to enjoy the fun things, the (expletive) things, the mundane things,” Burns said. “You’ve got to enjoy being at the rink. It’s not easy. It’s not all great. Some hard days, hard work. But I think when you’re with a group that loves to work and we just naturally have fun doing it, it definitely helps, too. “I think that’s an important part, just to enjoy that process.”

NBA

Knicks star Brunson to make appearance on “Law & Order: SVU” New York New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson will make a guest-starring appearance on “Law & Order: SVU” this fall. NBC announced Brunson will appear in the season’s fifth episode, which is scheduled to air Nov. 5. Details on Brunson’s exact role weren’t revealed. Brunson already is set to host the season premiere of “Saturday Night Live” on Sept. 26. He made an appearance in the opening of the Emmy Awards telecast that was hosted by “Law & Order: SVU” star Mariska Hargitay.

NCAA FOOTBALL

CFP clarifies how committee can respond to Michigan-WMU result The College Football Playoff says it can’t change the outcome of any games played during the regular season but notes that its selection committee relies on various measures beyond wins and losses. The CFP statement follows the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision Oversight Committee’s announcement that it also doesn’t have the authority to overturn the result of No. 19 Michigan’s controversial 13-12 victory over Western Michigan. The CFP notes that its selection committee “evaluates all teams on a comprehensive body of work over a full season, driven by how teams perform in each game.”

Wide receiver Coker thriving in Carolina while first-round pick Legette struggles The Holy Cross product has developed into an NFL starter By Steve Reed The Associated Press CHARLOTTE — Wide receiver Jalen Coker, an undrafted rookie in 2024, is thriving with the Carolina Panthers. The same can’t be said for the team’s first-round draft pick that year, Xavier Legette. Legette finds himself firmly behind Coker on the depth chart — and the gap only seems to be widening. Coker, who took over Carolina’s No. 2 wide receiver spot opposite Tetairoa McMillan late last season, turned in an eye-catching performance to open the season with eight catches for a career-high 138 yards and two touchdowns last weekend against the Bears. That came after he hauled in nine passes for 134 yards and a touchdown in last year’s wild-card playoff game against the Rams. “The NFL has no respect for rounds,” Panthers coach Dave Canales said of the NFL Draft. Canales points to the 2014 Seattle Seahawks, a team he worked for as an assistant coach. The Seahawks reached the Super Bowl with mostly undrafted wide receivers on their roster. “They were tough guys who cared, and were intentional about their work. They made plays when the plays came to them,” Canales said. “And it’s as simple as that. ... For all of these guys on our team, when the quarterback gives you an opportunity, make the play. He will come back to you again.” Bryce Young has learned he can trust Coker to catch the ball, and he keeps going back to him. Over the last 12 games, Young has thrown 62 balls to Coker and he’s caught 81% of them. Coker first turned heads

SCOTT KINSER / AP PHOTO

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Jalen Coker makes a catch to score a touchdown against the Bears. in Carolina in a 2024 game against Denver, when he made a difficult leaping catch along the sideline just weeks after being promoted from the practice squad. “At that time, he still didn’t have a full grasp for what our system was,” Canales said. “All he knew was he had a one-on-one opportunity, go get the ball. Jalen has got that type of gamesmanship. If you talk to him, he’s the nicest kid in the world. When he gets between the lines, it’s a different animal.” Part of that mentality comes from his desire to prove to the league that he belongs. Coker wasn’t highly recruited out of high school — he had average speed — and wound up at Holy Cross. He put up big numbers his first two seasons and had some opportunities to transfer and play for bigger schools. But he kept a promise to his mother and stayed in Worcester, Massachusetts. “I just remember my mom

told me, ‘If you commit here, you’re committing to go here for all four years — no transferring, none of that stuff,’” Coker said. “So I said, ‘OK, I made a commitment. I’m sticking to it.’” Coker missed the first third of the 2025 season with a quad injury, and slowly saw more playing time as the season went on. He finished the regular season with 33 catches for 394 yards and three touchdowns. That, along with the big performance in the playoff game, persuaded the Panthers to give him a three-year, $35 million contract extension this offseason — a deal that could end up being a huge bargain for the Panthers if he continues to produce like he has the last two games. The rest of the league seems to be taking notice of No. 18. Falcons cornerback Jessie Bates III said before Atlanta’s game Sunday against the Panthers that the Falcons can’t focus all of their attention on McMillan, last season’s

Offensive Rookie of the Year. Coker can beat them too. “I think he’s just someone that Bryce has created some chemistry with and someone that he really trusts,” Bates said. “He can give him a chance, 50-50 balls. He can really trust that dude to go make some plays for him. So I just think that he’s a really good receiver. It’ll be another draft that doesn’t explain what type of player he is.” Coker said success came quickly for him last season, but added that he approached this offseason needing to improve on “everything.” “I just want to continue to elevate what I did last year and just make it just a little bit better,” Coker said. “Work on run after the catch. I have a few passes in the playoff game in particular that I want back. There were plays I could have been better, just cleaner.” Coker added: “I still have a ton of work to do. By no means have I arrived or anything like that.”

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

obituaries Annie Dillard, Pulitzer-winning author of ‘Pilgrim at Tinker Creek,’ dead at 81 Joann Hudson Gaddis

Domingo Ramos

Oct. 31, 1934 – Sept. 13, 2026

Oct. 27, 1969 – Sept. 18, 2026

Joann Hudson Gaddis, age 91, of Rockfish, NC, passed away on September 13, 2026. Joann was born in Erwin, NC, to the late Fredis Stevenson Hudson and Boyd Bruce Hudson, Sr., on October 31, 1934. She was a military wife to a proud Green Beret for 20 years, living in Germany for a total of 8 years and in the Fort Bragg, NC, area. She enjoyed reading and books from an early age. She had the privilege and joy of being employed, sharing that with three elementary schools in Cumberland County for a total of 26 years. She was a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, above all, a child of the King. She is predeceased by her husband, Aubrey Gaddis; her three sons, Richard, Tom and Daniel Gaddis; and her brother, Bruce Hudson and wife, Carmel Hudson. She is survived by her two daughters-in-law, Gina Gaddis of Lillington, NC, and Susan Sherma Gaddis of Asheville, NC; her sisters Kaye Lambert (Bill) of Fayetteville, NC, Gail Zimmerman of Johnson City, TN, and Pamela Haskett (David) of Yorktown, VA; two grandchildren, three greatgrandchildren, nieces, one nephew, their families, as well as friends like family. Psalm 16:11: “Yu make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand.” A funeral service will be held at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 3219 Lindsay Road, Raeford, NC 28376, on September 18, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. with Rev.Tommy Underwood officiating.

Domingo Ramos of Raeford, NC, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Friday, September 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 27, 1969, in Guachinango, Jalisco, Mexico, to the late Antonio and Juana Ramos. Alongside his parents, he is preceded in death by his brother, Francisco Ramos. Domingo worked at Stewart Construction for 16 years. He loved Mariachi music, singing and spending time at his beloved ranch, El Ocote. He enjoyed working in carpentry at home and spending time with his family and friends. Those who knew him will remember his strength, his hard-working spirit, his love for his family, and the deep faith he carried throughout his life. He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Maria Ramos; his daughters, Rosalia, Erica, Mayra, and Heidi; one son, Victor; grandchildren, Daisy, Cassandra, Yesenia, Kiara, Luis, Anthony, Lester, Maximus, Marcus, Matthew, Jonathan, Joshua, and Kayden; and his sisters and brothers. A private visitation will be held at the family’s home. A funeral service will be announced at a later date.

She spent more than five decades exploring the intersection of nature, spirituality and self The Associated Press NEW YORK — Annie Dillard, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author and essayist renowned for her poetic explorations of nature, love, spirituality and the art of writing in the “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek,” “The Maytrees” and numerous other works, has died. She was 81. Her literary agent, Rob McQuilkin, said Dillard died Tuesday of natural causes at her home in South Wellfleet, Massachusetts. Starting in the mid-1970s, Dillard completed a wide range of books, from the poetry collection “Tickets for a Prayer Wheel” to what she would call the “jolly journalism” of “Encounters with Chinese Writers” to the novel of marriage, “The Maytrees,” a finalist for the PEN/Faulkner award in 2008. Seven years later, President Barack Obama presented her with a National Humanities Medal for her “profound reflections on human life and nature.” Born Meta Ann Doak, she was a Pittsburgh native who in the 1987 memoir “An American Childhood” looked back at her early years and on her uniquely curious mind. She was raised

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President Barack Obama awards the 2014 National Humanities Medal to author Annie Dillard during a ceremony in the East Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., in September 2015. by nonconformists who gave her a wide range to learn and to discover, and she remembered with awe her growing sense of knowledge and self-knowledge. Resistant for much of her life to organized religion, she would find the eternal in animals, mountains, her mother’s skin and in everyday objects. At age 13, she wrote, she was reading “books on drawing, painting, rocks, criminology, birds, moths, beetles, stamps, ponds and streams, medicine.” Dillard had yet to turn 30 when “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek” established her as a major, new

Presley Gerber, son of Cindy Crawford, model dead at 27 His sister praised him last month for being remarkably open about addiction The Associated Press

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literary voice and heir to Henry David Thoreau as a sensitive and idiosyncratic observer of the natural world. Published in 1974 and winner of the Pulitzer for nonfiction, “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek” drew upon Dillard’s private writings about the surroundings of her home in Roanoke, Virginia. Invoking Thoreau, about whom she wrote her master’s thesis at Hollins College, she called her book “a meteorological journal of the mind,” in which she would explore “some of the sights of this rather tamed valley.” “I am no scientist,” she wrote, likening herself to “an infant who has just learned to hold his head up” and gaze about “in bewilderment.” “He hasn’t the faintest clue where he is, and he aims to learn. In a couple of years, what he will have learned instead is how to fake it: he’ll have the cocksure air of a squatter who has come to feel he owns the place,” she wrote. Dillard taught for more than 20 years at Wesleyan University before retiring in 2002. She was married three times, most recently to the late literary biographer Robert Richardson, whom she met after sending him a fan letter admiring his biography of Thoreau. She had one child, Cody, with second husband Gary Clevidence. Her first husband was creative writing teacher Richard Dillard, whom she divorced in 1975 after 10 years of marriage.

LOS ANGELES — Presley Gerber, the son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessperson Rande Gerber, died Sunday at age 27, a family representative said. Gerber died at a rehabilitation facility, according to online records of the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. The medical examiner did not provide a cause of death Sunday. An autopsy was performed, but more testing is required before investigators can give a cause, according to the medical examiner’s website. The death was confirmed by Allie Jenkins, a representative for Crawford and Rande Gerber, who were married in 1998. “The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult and painful time,” Jenkins said in an email Sunday night. Gerber was model in own right Gerber was a model and the older brother of model and actor Kaia Gerber. He had been open about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse, documenting his journey on Instagram. He even started a “Mental Health Mondays” series on the platform to raise awareness and share wellness tips. Across multiple episodes, he related his own experiences with substances ranging from ketamine to kratom, as well as his time at rehabilitation facilities. He posted an Instagram video in March from Mexico, where he said he planned to take ibogaine, a potent psychedelic that is being studied as a treatment for opioid addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder and other conditions. Ibogaine — known to sometimes

trigger potentially fatal heart problems — is banned in the U.S. under the federal government’s most restrictive category for illegal, high-risk drugs, although President Donald Trump directed his administration to ease restrictions and spur research. Raised in Malibu, California, Gerber signed with the management agency IMG as a teenager and made his runway debut for Moschino at 16. In 2018, he appeared alongside his mother — whose famous beauty mark he inherited — in a Pepsi Super Bowl ad that paid homage to her 1992 commercial for the soda brand. That same year, he and his sister shot a campaign for Calvin Klein jeans. Gerber later signed with DNA Models. His biography on the agency’s website describes him as an entrepreneur and model who was inspired by “his mother’s legendary modeling career and his father’s lucrative business career.” Rande Gerber’s businesses have included restaurants, nightlife companies and Casamigos — a tequila brand he cofounded with George Clooney and Mike Meldman that was sold to Diageo in a $1 billion deal. Gerber open about struggles with addiction Gerber’s modeling biography also described him as an “avid surfer and skater.” In an Instagram video posted in July 2025, Gerber described growing up as a dedicated athlete who spent hours in the water nearly every day — a routine that came to a halt when he started working. With less physical activity, Gerber said, he was put on more medication and his quality of life suffered. “For me it took 10 years of looking back at my life being like, ‘Well, what changed?’ A lot of the time people would ask like, ‘You were such a happy kid; what happened to you?’” he recalled. “What happened was life hap-

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Presley Gerber poses at the Samuel Goldwyn Theatre in March 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. pened and I wasn’t able to worry about one thing, which was my next meal and then get back in the ocean. Like I had to start making money, I had to start — I got a job.” In an interview with Vogue last month, Kaia Gerber praised her brother for being so open about his experience with addiction. “My parents for most of our lives were very, very private and didn’t share anything—and now we have this absolute teacher, my brother, who says, ‘I’m gonna be very human for everyone,’” she told the magazine. “There’s only so much you can hide from the world. And trying to put a lid on something just makes the person feel like you’re ashamed of them.” In addition to his testimonial videos, Gerber’s Instagram was a collection of modeling shoots and memories that stretched back to childhood. His life around cameras influenced his own interest in photography as an art form. “I have always been the type of person to stop and take a picture when everybody is just focused on the destination,” he told Vogue in 2016, on the occasion of his runway debut. “I feel like people walk by a countless amount of beauty in the world every day, and I hope that I don’t miss all of it.”

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

on the campaign trail

PHOTOS BY STAN GILLILAND / NORTH STATE JOURNAL

President Donald Trump flew into North Carolina last Wednesday to campaign in Gastonia for Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley and other Republicans on the ticket in the Tarheel state. Vice President JD Vance flew into Greensboro on Monday for a similar event, as the Senate race appears tight in the polls, with former governor Roy Cooper holding a lead over Whatley.

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 31 | THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 | MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM

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MOORE COUNTY THE MOORE COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

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KENT NISHIMURA / POOL VIA AP

Election season President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance made separate campaign stops in North Carolina this past week to stump for Republicans on the ballot, including, most prominently, U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley. Trump came to Gastonia last Wednesday, while Vance flew into Greensboro on Monday.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Trump admin to remove 760K Affordable Care Act enrollees over fraud claims Washington, D.C. Vice President JD Vance and White House officials are announcing plans to remove 760,000 Affordable Care Act enrollees from public healthcare exchanges. They allege the individuals were fraudulently enrolled or do not exist. On Tuesday, Vance said this move would save $2.2 billion, ensuring subsidies go to those who need them. The Trump administration is also suspending new brokers from signing up enrollees for six months, citing fraud concerns. As of early 2026, about 19.2 million Americans are enrolled in ACA marketplace plans.

Trump signs U.S.Denmark-Greenland agreement to bolster Arctic security United Nations The United States, Denmark and Greenland have signed an agreement to strengthen security in the Arctic and North Atlantic. President Donald Trump signed the deal Tuesday on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly in New York. Trump earlier announced he planned to bolster the U.S. military presence in Greenland while keeping it under Danish and Greenlandic control. Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire for Greenland to become part of the U.S., ramping up tension.

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Moore County approves additional commercial zoning in US 1 corridor The nine acres of property were previously in the jurisdiction of Vass By Ryan Henkel North State Journal CARTHAGE — The Moore County Board of Commissioners met Sept. 15 for its regular business meeting with an agenda primarily consisting of public hearings. The board first held a public hearing for a zoning request for around nine acres of property about on four adjacent parcels at 5168, 5174, 5200 and 5152 U.S. 1 Highway to be zoned as highway commercial. The parcels were previously in the jurisdiction of the city of Vass but were removed from the municipality’s corporate limits by the North Carolina General Assembly back in June.

“The requested zoning is compatible with the surrounding land use classifications, and it is consistent with the county’s goals of optimizing the uses of land within the county, ensuring adequate infrastructure is available to support the desired growth of the county and maximizing accessibility among living, working and shopping areas,” said Planning Director Ruth Pedersen. The parcels were previously zoned for heavy commercial and mixed use development. Following the hearing, the board approved the zoning amendment. The board also held a public hearing for a text amendment to the UDO to make religious institutions as permitted by right in the RA20, RA40 and RE zoning districts. Religious institutions had previously been allowed in these districts in alignment

The requested zoning is compatible with the surrounding land use classifications.” Planning Director Ruth Pedersen with the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Person Act, which prohibited regulations that treated religious assemblies less favorably than nonreligious assemblies. However, UDO revisions made in 2022 removed the right from those three districts. This amendment will remove the burden that existing religious institutions have that prevents them from making development modifications. Following the hearing, the board approved the request.

Sandhills Quilters Guild upholds long-time exhibition tradition Traditional styles and techniques remain honored while modern aesthetics are also embraced By Melinda Burris North State Journal PINEHURST — The Sandhills Quilters Guild will host its biennial fabric art exhibition, “Quilting in the Pines,” Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the historic Fair Barn. It is located at 200 Beulah Hill Road South (Highway 5) in Pinehurst. Admission for adults is $8, and children get in for free. More than 130 items will be on display. Some exhibition pieces will be available for purchase, as will others in the

barn’s boutique area. Baskets will be up for raffle, and a silent auction will be held. Ellene Place has been a member of the guild for many years, has served in guild leadership (most recently as guild president) and has entered many shows. The inaugural exhibition was held in 2004, and the guild sponsors a new show every other year. From humble beginnings in 1983 with just a few women — fewer than 10, according to an estimate by Place, meeting at the Campbell Community House — the Sandhills Quilters Guild has grown to 140 members. The exhibition currently embraces a wide variety of artistic styles, from modern quilting techniques and miniatures to art quilts. “Let your imagination be your guide”

COURTESY JANICE CLEAVY BADGER

A quilt features a geometric design in a fall color scheme. seems to be the organization’s motto, as they accept handand machine-quilted pieces. One mandatory criterion is that a quilt must be made up of three layers and be quilted. To qualify as a quilt, a piece must

In addition, the board approved an approximately $155,000 contract with Radio Communications Company for the procurement of mobile and portable radios for the Moore County Sheriff’s Office. “This is going to outfit our school resource officers as we move into Jan. 1 when the sheriff’s office is going to be taking over those responsibilities,” said Major Eric Galloway. In total, the contract will cover the costs of 17 additional portable radios and 27 mobile (in-car) radios for the department’s new vehicles. “This is a budgeted item, so there’s no budget increase or additional costs to taxpayers,” said Board Chair Nick Picerno. “Just want to reiterate that for consumption by the public.” The Moore County Board of Commissioners will next meet Oct. 6.

consist of a quilted top, a layer of batting and a final layer of backing that is clearly visible. Quilts are created as art pieces that are traditionally hung on the wall and as functional pieces for warmth. Certified quilting judge Scott Murkin recently reached 30,000 quilts he has evaluated. Having lived in the Old North State for more than three decades, Murkin now considers himself a North Carolina native by choice. “Typically, the categories are divided by some combination of intended use and technique,” Murkin said of what spectators can expect to see. “So there’ll be pieced wall quilts and applique wall quilts and pieced bed quilts and applique wall quilts — that kind of thing.” All entries will be judged by certified professionals. First-, second- and third-place ribbons, along with an honorable mention, will be awarded in each category. Finally, each of the two judges, Murkin and Place, will choose their winner for best of show.

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

moore Raccoon boot camp happening in Mississippi teaches abandoned kits survival skills Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County.

“Join the conversation”

Graduating raccoons are released to the tune of “Pomp and Circumstance”

Sept. 25 Fourth Fridays in Aberdeen

By Sophie Bates The Associated Press North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Trip Hoffend, Publisher Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers Cory Lavalette, Senior Editor Jordan Golson, Local News Editor Shawn Krest, Sports Editor Dan Reeves, Features Editor Ryan Henkel, Reporter 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

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PASS CHRISTIAN, Miss. — Muddy, sweat-soaked and occasionally bloody, the dedicated staff at a Mississippi wildlife center are drill sergeants. And their soldiers? Baby raccoons. Welcome to raccoon boot camp, where the goal is to help sick or injured animals learn to survive in the south Mississippi wilderness — a skill set they would have learned from their mothers, most of whom died or were separated from their kits by storms, traffic incidents or other traumatic events. It’s a challenge that’s left Woodside Wildlife Rescue’s founder, Paula Woodside, with cuts from scared, defensive raccoons and their sharp claws, and when she isn’t able to save a kit, emotional scars too. “When these babies come in and they’re so desperate, it’s heartbreaking,” said Woodside, who most days is covered in sweat from caring for the animals in the Mississippi heat and dirt from curious kits crawling up her legs and onto her shoulders. “It’s really important for them to get a little bit of a head start.” Wildlife rescue staff teach raccoons by example Woodside, a former U.S. merchant mariner, opened the rescue in 2019 after she helped rehabilitate a baby raccoon found aboard her ship. The rescue in the coastal city of Pass Christian typically raises dozens of kits each year, 76 so far this year, alongside other indigenous wildlife. City animal control and citizens call Woodside, or the rescue’s director, Raquel Priest, when they find a raccoon in need of saving. Together, they attempt to reunite the kits with their mothers, if they can find them, or bring the kits to the rescue. The youngest raccoons will spend a few weeks mostly indoors being bottle-fed by rehabbers until they’re vaccinated for diseases carried by cat colonies and dogs and are ready to move to outdoor pens. Though the kits stay close to their adoptive human parents, they’re eventually al-

5-8 p.m. Free music, food and vendors with Mystery Tour live. High Octane 140 S. Sycamore St. Aberdeen

SOPHIE BATES / AP PHOTO

A raccoon kit digs through water and mud at Woodside Wildlife Rescue in Pass Christian, Mississippi, on Sept. 1.

“It’s like watching your children leave home. It’s important to see them prosper and go and be the mischievous creatures they were meant to be.” Raquel Priest, director lowed to roam free during the day on the rescue’s rural 20-acre property, a sprawling mix of meadows and thick forest spotted with ponds and a nearby river. Thanks to that setting, Woodside and Priest can take their troops on learning excursions, a luxury many wildlife rescues don’t have, Woodside said. Woodside and Priest teach by example. They hide worms in the dirt to show the kits how to dig for food and break open pine cones or acorns to reveal the seeds inside. The raccoons’ eyes light up when they encounter a new tasty food, and they run to show their discovery to their rehabbers before hurrying back to fend off other kits who might try to steal their find. Where a drill sergeant might yell, ‘Attention!’ Priest and Woodside give a shrill trilling sound, mimicking the raccoon call for danger, that sends the kits running up trees to safety. A short whistle lets the troops know the coast is clear. The kits also practice fishing in shallow pools, their uncoordinated paws tentatively patting the water until they’re quick enough to snag a snack. A live quail hunt provides hunting experience. While these are skills raccoons

Sept. 26 Flutterby Festival

would likely learn on their own, Woodside’s staff hopes the training gives the kits a greater chance of survival. On the property’s pond, the raccoons learn to swim, a critical skill in hurricane-prone south Mississippi. The rehabbers take to kayaks and encourage the kits to swim back and forth. They also take trips to the deep woods, where kits learn to run from tree to tree to avoid being seen by birds of prey and to have a quick escape route from snakes or other dangers on the ground.

11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Raccoons graduate to “Pomp and Circumstance Marches”

A ticketed outdoor DJ club set with a drone show. Blankets and chairs are welcome; no outside food or drink through the gates.

For their final lesson, a volunteer — who isn’t Woodside or Priest — traps the raccoons in cages, scaring them enough to encourage them to avoid traps and humans. The experience helps the young raccoons wean themselves from their human rescuers, a process Priest said naturally occurs as they mature. When a group of kits is ready for release, about six months after their rescue, Woodside and Priest host a graduation ceremony. They play Edward Elgar’s “Pomp and Circumstance Marches” and read a roll call of each graduating kit’s name. A reverend then blesses their journey as they’re released onto a different section of the rescue’s forest-covered property. For kits that die in care, the staff holds a second ceremony to bless and scatter their ashes. “It’s like watching your children leave home,” Priest said. “It’s important to see them prosper and go and be the mischievous creatures they were meant to be.”

A free pollinator festival with monarch tents, garden tours, kids activities, food trucks and live music. Tickets are required. Joyce’s Meadow at the Village Arboretum 375 Magnolia Road Pinehurst

Sandhills Celebrates America: Dustin Lynch 6-10 p.m. (gates 5 p.m.)

Gilliam-McConnell Airfield 194 Gilliam McConnell Road Carthage

Sept. 28 Dementia Caregiver Support Group 1 p.m. Caregivers receive education and support along with strategies for caring for family members and other loved ones suffering from dementia. The group is led by Pat Soler and Dale Krech, certified facilitators through the Dementia Alliance of NC. Contact Kelly Pritchard at 910-715-4224 for more information. Shadowlawn Room Clara McLean House 20 First Village Drive Pinehurst

Oct. 2 CRIME LOG Sept. 14 • Rodney Scott Collins, 55, of Carthage, was arrested by MCSO for possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine and possession of a stolen motor vehicle. Sept. 15 • Jamarion Kayontae Marquell McRae, 22, of Southern Pines, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for assault on a female and attempted common law robbery. • Jennifer Ann Casper, 41, of Eagle Springs, was arrested by MCSO for possession of methamphetamine; alter, steal or destroy criminal evidence. Sept. 16 • James Scott Dunn, 41, of Aberdeen, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for resisting a public officer. • Stephen Boyd Strickland, 58, of Pembroke, was arrested by MCSO for violate domestic violence protection order, misdemeanor stalking and harassing phone call. Sept. 17 • Nancy Tucker McCauley, 55, of Carthage, was arrested

by MCSO for possession of methamphetamine, simple possession of a controlled substance and maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances. • Sherri Lynn Dow, 64, of Carthage, was arrested by MCSO for maintaining a vehicle or dwelling for controlled substances. • Todd Wilson Sutton, 64, of Aberdeen, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for felony possession of cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia. Sept. 18 • Bracy Lee Chavis, 29, of Aberdeen, was arrested by MCSO for possession of fentanyl and possession of controlled substance. • Justin McCrae Phillippi, 34, of Cameron, was arrested by MCSO for assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. • Kasey Fawn Seawell, 32, of Aberdeen, was arrested by MCSO for possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of fentanyl and possession of controlled substance. • Ulice Catalan-Hernandez, 33,

of Eagle Springs, was arrested by MCSO for possession of fentanyl. Sept. 19 • Anthony Chad Lackey, 46, of Southern Pines, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for assault by strangulation, assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. Sept. 20 • Anastacio Lopez Pulido, 56, of Carthage, was arrested by MCSO for misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. • Darian Maurice Marsh, 54, of Southern Pines, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for misdemeanor larceny and possession of stolen goods. • Kelly Edward Lammers, 57, of Cameron, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for cyber stalking. • Sean Naveretta McKoy, 44, of Aberdeen, was arrested by MCSO for misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and misdemeanor child abuse. • Tyler Matthew Bowling, 26, of Southern Pines, was arrested by MCSO for assault by strangulation, assault on a female and misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

First Friday Concert Series: The Psycodelics 5-9 p.m. A free outdoor concert on the Sunrise Theater lawn with a food truck and brewery drinks. Rain or shine. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Sunrise Theater lawn / First Bank Stage 250 N.W. Broad St. Southern Pines

Oct. 3 Southern Pines AutumnFest 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. A free family arts and crafts festival downtown with live entertainment, a 5K and kids races. Downtown Park 145 SE Broad St. Southern Pines

North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

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

VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | SUSAN MILLS

Get to know the real Michael Whatley Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics.

I HAVE KEPT SILENT hoping people will educate themselves before voting, but I still see fellow Republicans trying to tear down a good person. I was elected NCGOP vice chair to serve with Michael Whatley. I worked with him closely for over three years. He is a man of faith, family and freedom. He loves his beautiful family and would never put his children in harm’s way by “hiring” a person that preys on children. He did not hire Harvey West. Harvey was elected by his constituents in the 1st District. Harvey was already a member of the Plan of Organization Committee when Whatley became chair of the NCGOP. Many people are kept on committees to allow their knowledge of how the committee works to be passed down to new members. There was nothing strange about keeping Harvey on that committee. Look at organizations in your community, state and country. Do you throw out all their institutional knowledge to bring on someone that is new and has no idea of where to begin?

Whatley is a man of faith. We started each meeting, event, dinner with a prayer. He is a God-fearing person. He always wanted to do what was right, and he did. No one is perfect, so stop looking for perfection in anyone! Whatley loves the people of North Carolina and of this great country. I have seen it firsthand. He doesn’t put himself first. It’s the folks of N.C. who he put first and always will. He is a man of his word and not a person that lies. We need Whatley in the U.S. Senate. Just remember who closed schools and churches but left open liquor stores and abortion clinics — the Democratic candidate did that! As a person that has worked closely with him and considers him a close friend, I ask you to vote for Michael Whatley for U.S. Senate! Susan Mills is a public high school teacher who lives in Fayetteville.

COLUMN | DANIEL MCCARTHY

The immigration politics of a felon’s pardon “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that.

HOW FAR will New York Gov. Kathy Hochul go to keep immigrant criminals in this country? So far, she’ll even pardon a man convicted of an aggravated felony if that’s what it takes to prevent the United States Supreme Court from setting a restrictionist precedent. Keisy Guerrero Mariano is a Dominican who spent two years in prison for committing a violent crime: second-degree assault. Mariano, known as “G.M.” in court documents, is exactly the sort of lawbreaker Americans overwhelmingly want to see deported. But not Hochul — she granted him clemency Aug. 28. His case stood out from those of the other five people she pardoned that day: The others were nonviolent offenders who’d committed their crimes decades ago: two in the 1980s, two in the ’90s, and just one as recently as 2007. G.M. was convicted in 2015. The governor decided he merited special leniency, for political reasons. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested G.M. in 2020, intending to deport him based on his criminal record. ICE had to let him go in 2022, however, because of a nationwide injunction related to COVID-19 that required the agency to review custody of individuals with certain medical conditions. While ICE had him, though, G.M.’s lawyers challenged the agency’s right to hold him for a prolonged time without a bond hearing. That’s what Hochul’s pardon is really about — the Trump administration planned to make the Dominican’s appeals a test case before the U.S. Supreme Court, one likely to establish that G.M. and others like him are not entitled to a bond hearing. Bond hearings are an easily exploited weakness in America’s immigration security, not only protracting the legal process of deporting lawbreakers but also giving them an opportunity to get out of detention temporarily — and then permanently fail to show up when they’re due for their next hearing. G.M. came to this country legally in 2011, but he forfeited any right to remain here once he committed a felony. Only now Hochul has nullified his conviction to undercut

ICE’s grounds for removing him and collapse the appeals process that was leading to the Supreme Court — and to a probable defeat for those who want to make deportation as difficult as possible. The governor isn’t looking out for New Yorkers here: Her maneuver is about liberal politicians’ zeal for maximum immigration, even when it means letting violent criminals remain in our communities. This is the second lucky break Hochul’s side has had recently. The other test case the Trump administration had teed up, involving a Jamaican national convicted (also in New York) of sexually abusing a child under the age of 11, has been taken out of the courts as well after the offender left the country and filed a court declaration saying he would not be coming back to America. Self-deportation is one way to get immigrants convicted of heinous crimes out of here. But ICE can’t deport someone who has already deported himself, so his claim of a right to a bond hearing is now completely moot. The big question still has to be answered, though: Can immigration enforcement detain these violent perps and sex offenders until they can be tossed out? Or if they’ve been in custody for a while, are they entitled to bond hearings that will further delay their removal — and give them the chance to escape back into Americans’ neighborhoods? Solicitor General John Sauer says he’s not going to let Hochul’s gambit succeed. G.M.’s case may have been pulled, but Sauer aims to find another that will bring the fight to the Supreme Court. “Mandatory deportation” should mean just that — even a legal immigrant who commits a serious offense ought to be expelled promptly, and he shouldn’t get the benefit of a bond hearing just because his case takes longer than it should and he winds up in “prolonged” detention. He shouldn’t get the benefit of a liberal governor’s partisan machinations either. New Yorkers — American citizens — elected Hochul, and she should put them first, not foreigners who commit crimes while they’re here, legally or otherwise. Daniel McCarthy is the editor of Modern Age: A Conservative Review. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

Rising gas prices frustrate voters; Trump says it’s ‘inexpensive price to pay’ for Iran war The frustration spans party lines and could hurt Republicans in midterm voting

A customer checks gas price while he fills up his vehicle’s tank at a gas station, in Streamwood, Illinois, on Sept. 16.

it feels like he’s not even connected to his own people.” Bivins, who described herself as an independent, said she’s eager to support Democrats this fall — especially the party’s emerging democratic socialist wing. At a gas station in Lansing, Michigan, Rina Risper spent $50 on eight gallons of premium gas. “When I rolled up I was in shock, actually, and said, ‘Well, maybe I should drink water instead of having that $4.99 bottle of whatever it was I was gonna get,’” Risper said. She thinks Trump’s tariffs will make affordability even worse. “We’re not in Miami. We’re in Lansing, Michigan,” she said. “It’s really going to impact our people.”

bucks at the pump?” she said. “Make it make sense.” More than 1,500 miles to the north in central Michigan, 35-year-old Garth Johnson is trying to make ends meet running a deep-cleaning business with several gas-powered vehicles and one machine fueled by diesel, which was $6.79 a gallon as he filled up his SUV. Johnson voted for Trump, but doesn’t know what he’s going to do in November. Johnson doesn’t feel qualified to second-guess the president’s evaluation of the war, but he’s feeling financial pressure in his own life. “I like a lot of the things he’s done,” Johnson said but added, “I’m a little guy, and I’ve got to live my life.”

Most voters think Trump’s administration has made economy worse, poll shows

By Steve Peoples, Jesse Bedayn and Jonathan J. Cooper The Associated Press EDINBURG, Texas — Quinten Martinez, pumping gas under a hot South Texas sun, remembers a time when fueling up didn’t require difficult decisions. “Is it going to be groceries this week?” asked the 28-year-old Amazon delivery driver as he watched the numbers tick higher. “Is it gonna be getting gas in our tank to go to work?” He shook his head when asked about President Donald Trump’s assertion last week that higher gas prices are a small price to pay for the war with Iran. “I don’t feel like it’s a good trade-off,” Martinez said. “I don’t feel like this is good for anyone.” Voters across the country, and across the political spectrum, tend to agree. Interviews with voters in several states, along with a fresh round of national polling, reveal an overwhelming sense of frustration that skyrocketing gas prices — a direct result of Trump’s war — are creating serious and sustained financial hardships for America’s working class. The acute concerns are adding to a bad political environment that may be worsening for Trump and his Republican Party as early voting gets underway in the November midterm elections. Historically, the party holding the White House has suffered major losses in midterms. Today, seven weeks before Election Day, Republican candidates at all levels are struggling with the additional burden of Trump’s weak approval ratings, an unpopular foreign conflict and an affordability crisis that Trump and his congressional allies had promised to fix. But when Trump campaigned in Gastonia last Wednesday, he played down the impact of surging gas prices. “You have a little higher. It’s a very inexpensive price to pay for what we’ve done,” Trump said of the war, which he describes as critical to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. “Remember that. It’s a little more. Frankly, even if it was a lot more.”

NAM Y. HUH / AP PHOTO

“Gas prices matter because they’re one of the few economic indicators voters experience and see in real time. The price is literally staring them in the face several times a week.” Chris Wilson, Republican strategist “Gas prices matter,” Republican strategist says Despite what Trump says, there are few things that may matter more this election year than the price of a gallon of gasoline, according to political operatives in both parties. Gas prices are moving sharply in the wrong direction at a time of year when drivers typically get some relief. The national average for a gallon of gas reached $4.48 last Friday, according to AAA, up roughly 17 cents over the last week, 40 cents in a month and $1.27 from a year ago. “Gas prices matter because they’re one of the few economic indicators voters experience and see in real time,” said veteran Republican strategist Chris Wilson. “The price is literally staring them in the face several times a week. So I wouldn’t minimize the frustration we’re seeing, particularly among working- and middle-class voters.” Interviews with voters this week found bipartisan frustration and disappointment. Democrats and indepen-

dents were especially motivated to punish Republicans at the ballot box for their economic hardship, while some of Trump’s working-class supporters pledged to support Republicans this fall, even if they weren’t happy with the president’s leadership on the economy. Some Republicans say they’re disappointed Dan Lloyd, who voted for Trump, lamented the president’s leadership as the 63-year-old carpenter paid $4.39 a gallon to fill up his pickup truck in Mesa, Arizona. “He hurt himself stepping into this,” Lloyd said of Trump. “Where’s all this oil from Venezuela? I thought we were flush with gas and everything, but no. The American people eat it every time, whether it’s interest rates, food, gasoline.” Still, he expects to vote Republican in the midterms. “I think the Democratic Party has lost its way,” Lloyd said. “I just feel like the whole system’s on the verge of collapse.” In sweltering Edinburg, Texas, 52-year-old Kristin Jimenez shrugged off the rising price of gas after filling up her Mercedes. “We’ve paid the same price under Republican presidents, we’ve paid this price under Democrat presidents,” said Jimenez, a mother who runs a small business. She plans to vote for a Republican because they’re the “lesser of two evils.” She said gas prices aren’t part of her calculation. “We don’t mind paying $8 for a cup of coffee at Starbucks, but we have a problem paying four

Other voters not so forgiving Midterm voting was already underway last Friday in Virginia, where 60-year-old engineer Alan Johnson said Trump seems to have “no empathy” for Americans who are struggling financially. “With the gas prices being what they are and continuing to grow, we’ve got to do something. Hopefully the Democrats can get into office and turn the ship around,” said Johnson, who cast ballots in the morning for Democrats for the U.S. Senate and U.S. House. In Raleigh, teacher Brittney Bivins sees surging gas prices as evidence that Trump and his Republican Party aren’t dealing with the issues that matter most to people like her. “He really doesn’t care about everyday people,” the 45-year-old said. “He can afford the gas, but most of us can’t. So

Up to 30 shots fired after man opened fire on officer outside Ontario synagogue The officer was seriously wounded, but his quick response protected those inside

“If this officer wasn’t there, I don’t know what could have happened.”

The Associated Press BELLEVILLE, Ontario — A 29-year-old man armed with a shotgun opened fire on a police officer stationed outside an Ontario synagogue during Yom Kippur, triggering a shootout involving as many as 30 shots, the province’s police watchdog said Monday. The gunfire left the man with life-threatening injuries and seriously wounded a veteran of the Belleville Police Service, whose condition had stabilized as he recovered in intensive care. Kristy Denette, a spokesperson for the Special Investigations Unit, said nearby vehicles and homes were riddled with bullet holes. There was no forensic confirmation Monday as to whether the synagogue itself was hit. Denette said the scene appeared to stretch about half a block from the Sons of Jacob Synagogue. “It would have been quite, quite the scene indeed,” Denette said.

Douglas Lobel, synagogue attendee

IAN MACALPINE/THE CANADIAN PRESS VIA AP

Police officers walk in front of the Son of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, Ontario, on Monday. The Special Investigations Unit said preliminary evidence showed the man arrived in a truck around 7 p.m. on Sunday and fired at an officer outside the Sons of Jacob Synagogue in Belleville, about 110 miles east of Toronto. The officer returned fire before a second officer arrived and also fired. Belleville police Deputy Chief

Sheri Meeks identified the alleged shooter as Sean Ward, of the nearby city of Quinte West, and the officer as Const. Jeff Smith, a 13-year veteran of the force. About two dozen people were inside the synagogue when gunfire erupted. One of them, Douglas Lobel, said it lasted two or three minutes

and “seemed like an eternity.” Lobel said a police officer eventually entered the synagogue and asked whether anyone had been hurt. No one inside was injured. “This officer was a hero who saved our lives,” Lobel said. “If this officer wasn’t there, I don’t know what could have happened.” Police have not established a motive or said whether the Sons of Jacob Synagogue or the Jewish community was targeted. The SIU is investigating the actions of the officers, while Belleville police are conducting a parallel criminal investigation that will examine the man’s actions and possible motive. Meeks said the wounded officer faced “a significant road to recovery.” Meeks acknowledged the shooting’s impact on Belleville’s Jewish community, particular-

Nationwide, more than three times as many voters say they are falling behind financially as getting ahead, according to a Fox News survey released Wednesday. By a 15% margin, Democrats are considered the party that would better handle inflation and prices at a time when the cost of living and the economy are voters’ top concerns. The Fox poll found that 61% of voters say gas prices are a major problem for their household, compared with 48% two years ago, while 52% say the same for healthcare costs, compared with 44% in 2024. Majorities also view housing costs and grocery prices as major problems, although neither has increased. Overall, nearly two-thirds of voters (63%) say the administration has made the economy worse, compared with 52% in September 2025, including one-quarter of Republicans. Only 46% of Republicans say the administration has improved the economy, while about one-quarter don’t see an impact. Back in rural South Texas, an area where Trump’s GOP made gains in recent elections, Martinez, the Amazon delivery driver, could not contain his frustration. Trump “likes to tout that we are the best economy in the world,” said Martinez, but in more rural towns, “you don’t see any of the winning, you don’t see any of the ups that he’s talking about.” “You just see struggles for day-to-day life,” he said.

ly because it happened outside the synagogue during Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar. “Antisemitism, hate and violence have no place in our community,” Meeks said. “Every person deserves to feel safe when attending a place of worship.” The synagogue canceled its remaining Yom Kippur services following the shooting. Police increased patrols and their presence around places of worship but said there was no ongoing threat to public safety. Belleville Mayor Neil Ellis said it was too soon to say whether the shooting was a hate crime but said “the circumstances are where it happened, when it happened” and that it “points towards that.” “We have a tight-knit Jewish community. We don’t tolerate this in our city or across the country,” Ellis said. “Everyone has the right to feel safe.” Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney condemned the shooting in a social media post, saying, “Jewish people must be able to worship safely” and “live free, open, proud Jewish lives.” He said the federal government would support law enforcement in ensuring the perpetrator is held accountable. The shooting comes months after Carney warned that Canada was failing its Jewish community amid a surge in antisemitism. Carney cited shootings at Jewish schools, firebombings of synagogues and attacks on community centers and Jewish-owned businesses.

MOORE SPORTS ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Marquise McNair Pinecrest, RB

DAVID SINCLAIR FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Union Pines football gets only win for county schools Seaforth 50, North Moore 0: Last Friday at Pittsboro, Duncan Parker threw for four touchdowns and ran for another as the Hawks reached the 50-point mark for the second time this season with the home romp. Noah Fuller and Mason Pooley both had two touchdown receptions. Jude O’Neill scored on a run. Seaforth (4-1) notched its second shutout of the season. Jeremiah Gilmore returned a fumble for a touchdown. North Moore dropped to 0-5. This Friday, they host Thomasville at 7 p.m. The Bulldogs are 3-1 and have won three straight, including a 63-0 shutout at Western Guilford last week.

The former Hurricane enters his 23rd season By Pat Graham The Associated Press

Marquise McNair is a sophomore running back for the Pinecrest football team. He has also played basketball for the school. The Patriots are 2-3 on the year, and McNair has provided the bulk of Pinecrest’s ground offense. In last week’s game against Scotland, McNair carried 17 times for 125 yards, scoring two of Pinecrest’s three touchdowns on the day. He also added a two-point conversion rush, caught a pass for 11 yards and made a solo tackle. For the season, McNair ranks second in the Mid-South 7A/8A conference in rushing and third in scoring. He ranks in the top 10 in North Carolina Class 8A in both categories as well.

North State Journal staff

Avs’ 41-year-old defenseman Burns trimmed beard, not ambition

Scotland 37, Pinecrest 23: Last Friday, Pinecrest lost on the road to drop to 2-3 on the season. Scotland jumped out to an early lead with 16 first-quarter points and never looked back. Pinecrest quarterback Najee Gillis was 16 of 35 for 167 yards and a touchdown. Running back Marquise McNair rushed for 125 yards and two scores. Receiver Eric Melton caught a 69-yard bomb from Gillis and finished with eight catches for 126 yards and a touchdown. On defense, Carson Burch had eight tackles and 3 TFL. Waymond McIntee forced two fumbles and had a TFL. The Patriots, however, had no answer for Mike McLean. The Scotland sophomore ran for 212 yards and three touchdowns. This week, Pinecrest is idle

and will return to the field the first Friday in October to host Jack Britt. Union Pines 35, West Johnston 0: Last Friday, Union Pines won their second straight game to improve to 3-1 on the season, shutting out West Johnston at home. Quarterback Vida Blue had a near perfect day, completing 10 of 12 passes for 141 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Zane Maxwell carried 10 times for 78 yards, while Adrian Colon scored twice on his five carries, finishing with 75 yards. John Erguiza and Jeremy Leone each caught touchdown passes. Terai Lottie had a 70-yard kickoff return for a score. This week, Union Pines hosts South Johnston at 7 p.m. Friday. The Trojans are 1-2 and have dropped two straight.

ENGLEWOOD, Colo. — The famed bushy beard of Brent Burns was neatly groomed. His hair, too. When he smiled, front teeth gleamed in the gap where he once had none. It’s a fresh look as the 41-year-old Colorado Avalanche defenseman embarks on his 23rd NHL season. But he’s still the colorful character they refer to as “Burnsy,” the one who’s still up for the grind as he chases his first Stanley Cup title. The one who took a young player under his wing this summer and invited him into his house. The one who doesn’t focus on the possibility of breaking the league’s all-time ironman streak, which, health willing, could happen in February. “I’m trying to figure out what stick I’m going to use tomorrow, what I’m going to eat tonight,” said Burns, who has played in 1,007 straight regular-season games and sits 57 away from tying the mark of Phil Kessel. “I don’t really think about all the other stuff.” Retirement didn’t even really cross his mind after the Avalanche were swept by Vegas in the Western Conference final. He signed another one-year deal in late June and was right back to training. His superpower, according to teammate Brock Nelson, is his ability to stay young at heart. “I don’t think he strikes anybody as a 41-year-old. He still seems like an 18-, 19-year-old kid,” the 34-year-old Nelson said. “Just having fun, always laughing and having a good time.” Kessel’s consecutive games streak stands at 1,064 and took place from Nov. 3, 2009, to April 13, 2023. Should Burns remain in the lineup, he could tie the mark Feb. 13

Logano claims Cup playoff victory at Bristol Carson Hocevar and Ryan Blaney fought afterward

“There wasn’t a whole lot of talking,” Carson Hocevar

The Associated Press BRISTOL, Tenn. — Joey Logano won the Cup Series race Saturday at Bristol Motor Speedway, while the driver he passed for the win stole the show with old-school NASCAR feuding and fisticuffs. Carson Hocevar, a brash 23-year-old who has earned the ire of veterans with his aggressive driving, traded punches in the pits with Ryan Blaney after they were involved in an incident while racing for second with 41 laps left. Hocevar stopped his car after finishing third and was greeted by a shove from Blaney. The 6-foot-4 Hocevar, who stands several inches taller than Blaney, responded with two overhand rights. The first knocked off Blaney’s hat, and the second connected with Blaney’s left cheek. Blaney fell to the pavement and then scrambled to his feet and out of a crew member’s hold while Hocevar raised his arms and pointed at him. Blaney charged and threw a wild left that knocked off Hocevar’s hat. They then were separated by team members as Blaney continued to yell at Hocevar. “There wasn’t a whole lot of

at Tampa Bay and break it two days later in front of the home crowd against Columbus. “I’m not going to be the guy that breaks that streak,” Avs coach Jared Bednar said. “I’ve got way too much respect for him, for what he’s done in his career, and for what he’s doing for us on a daily basis. He’s proven to me that he deserves to be in our lineup. I’m hoping that he can stay healthy and get it. I wish him the best of luck, and I just hope his health holds up.” Bednar added that Burns returned this season in “phenomenal condition.” “It’s not just the beard that’s making him look younger — or lack of a beard — I think he’s in great condition.” But there’s another factor that goes into keeping the streak going: good fortune. That’s why he doesn’t fret about it. “There’s just too much that can happen,” said Burns, whose streak began on Nov. 21, 2013, while with San Jose. “If you start thinking about that, (expletive) will happen. I’m not really lying, I don’t really think about it. “Just trying to stay afloat most of the time — and figure out what’s for dinner.” He embraces the grind of a long season, which he still relishes. “I must,” he said, referring to his longevity. As for his groomed beard, he said, “it’s a little different, for sure.” But he found an advantage: The trim makes him more aerodynamic to keep up with the youngsters. “You’ve got to enjoy the fun things, the (expletive) things, the mundane things,” Burns said. “You’ve got to enjoy being at the rink. It’s not easy. It’s not all great. Some hard days, hard work. But I think when you’re with a group that loves to work and we just naturally have fun doing it, it definitely helps, too. “I think that’s an important part, just to enjoy that process.”

WADE PAYNE / AP PHOTO

Ty Gibbs (54) leads Carson Hocevar (77), Kyle Larson (5) and Ryan Blaney (12) during Saturday’s NASCAR Cup Series race at Bristol. talking,” Hocevar said. “He just kind of said one thing and then went after me, and I wasn’t going to take it. I got ran into a lot for the win. That was for second, and he wants to come fight. They got an old-school Bristol show here.” The contact between the drivers started shortly after Blaney took second with an outside pass of Hocevar, who immediately

slid his No. 77 Chevrolet down the track. Blaney moved low to block, and Hocevar stayed in the accelerator to knock the No. 12 Ford into a spin that ended in the inside wall. “I don’t know what I did wrong there,” Hocevar said. “I crossed him over and looked like he spun himself, and then he wants to instigate a fight. I was going to finish that, and it

seemed like the crowd was pretty pumped up, so I was going to play the audience for a second.” Blaney, who led a race-high 202 laps despite starting 29th, was already frustrated after falling into heavy traffic because of a penalty for a pit lane violation with just over 100 laps remaining. His rally was cut short by the crash that dropped him to sixth in the Chase standings

with his second consecutive finish outside the top 30. In an interview during the race, Blaney said, “I tried to protect the bottom, he crossed and never lifted, and I got crashed.” When asked which driver was at fault, Blaney said, “I don’t (expletive) know. Each person is going to say they did nothing wrong.” Kyle Larson finished second to move into the Chase lead by a point over Denny Hamlin. Christopher Bell was fourth, followed by Ty Gibbs, who led 120 laps before finishing fifth. Gibbs and Hocevar exchanged the lead four times in the final 100 laps. Their battle for first after a restart with nine laps remaining opened the door for Logano, who zipped past Hocevar and led the final seven laps. With his 40th career victory and third this season, Logano became the winningest Cup Series driver for Team Penske and moved into third place in the Chase points standings. But he realized all of those accomplishments would be eclipsed by videos of the Blaney-Hocevar fight that he still had yet to see. “I’m sure I’ll see it all week long,” Logano said, pausing to add with a laugh. “They’ll probably forget who won the race.”

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

obituaries

Maya Joelle Ward Aug. 19, 2012 – Sept. 4, 2026 On August 19, 2012, Maya Joelle Ward entered the world, born to Joshua and Shenika Ward. From the very beginning, Maya was surrounded by love, and it did not take long for everyone around her to learn one very important thing about her: Maya was THE BOSS! Maya had spunk. She had personality. She knew what she liked, knew what she wanted, and had her own special way of making sure the people around her knew it too. Maya was unapologetically herself. There was only one Maya, and she never needed to be anyone other than exactly who God created her to be. Autism was woven into Maya’s life and into the lives of everyone who loved her. It shaped routines, relationships, advocacy, education, challenges, celebrations, and victories. Loving Maya meant learning to experience the world through her eyes, paying attention to what brought her comfort, recognizing what brought her joy, celebrating her progress, and understanding the many ways she communicated exactly who she was. Maya taught her village that there is more than one way to communicate, connect, love, learn, and experience joy. And Maya certainly knew joy. She loved Molly from Bubble Guppies, with her pink hair and blue outfit, and Skye from Paw Patrol. The pinks and blues that filled the world of some of her favorite characters became part of Maya’s world too and now serve as beautiful reminders of the things that made her happy. Maya also loved music, and the Boss had range! Her favorites could take you from “Little Molly Foo Foo” all the way to Beyonce’s “Cuff It.” And when “Cuff It” came on, Maya danced. In those moments, her joy took over. She was free, happy, and completely herself, and everyone around her had the privilege of sharing in that joy. Throughout her educational journey, Maya was blessed with educators and advocates who saw her, believed in her, and loved her. During her years in Moore County Schools, she was surrounded by people who advocated for her needs and celebrated her growth. She later found a special home at Mariposa School for Children with Autism in Cary, NC, where she spent five years surrounded by people who loved, adored, supported, and cared for her. Mariposa became much more than a school. It became an important part of

Maya’s village and a place where she could learn, grow, feel safe, and simply be Maya. Among the people who became especially important to Maya and her family at Mariposa were Darcie Rhodes, Chris Wensil, and Jasmine Martin who were part of Maya’s everyday life. Their commitment to Maya extended beyond education. They knew her routines, learned her ways, celebrated her victories, cared for her needs, and became part of the community of people entrusted with loving the Boss. Maya was a cherished daughter, a devoted big sister, a granddaughter, great granddaughter, goddaughter, godsister, niece, and friend. Among her most precious relationships was the bond she shared with her little brother, Joshua, whom she loved dearly. Maya was his big sister, and theirs is a bond that even death cannot erase. Joshua will carry his sister with him through the memories they created, the love they shared, and all the ways Maya helped shape his life. Maya was blessed with a village that stretched far beyond the walls of her home. Family, educators, caregivers, advocates, and friends surrounded her throughout her life. They learned Maya. They celebrated Maya. They advocated for Maya. They cared for Maya. And, most importantly, they loved Maya exactly as she was. Maya’s earthly life ended far too soon. Fourteen years could never have been enough for those who loved her. Yet the impact of a life is not measured simply by the number of years lived. Maya’s life is measured by the love she gave and received, the joy she brought, the lessons she taught without ever having to say a word, the memories she created, and the lives forever changed because Maya was here. Maya leaves to cherish her precious memory her loving parents, Shenika and Joshua Ward; her devoted brother, Joshua Ward II; her maternal grandmother, Leverta Jones Carrethers (William); maternal grandfather, Edward D. Ellison (Sandra); paternal grandmother, Elda Ward, and her late paternal grandfather, Joel Ward; paternal great grandmother, Johnnie Faye Richmond; uncle, Joel Ward; Godmothers, Patrice McCauley and Paula Brown; Godfather, Barry McCauley, Jr., and a host of extended family, friends, educators, caregivers, advocates, and loved ones whose lives were forever touched by Maya. Our hearts are broken because Maya is no longer physically here, but the Boss left her mark. We will say her name. We will tell her stories. We will smile when we see pink and blue. We will remember the things that made her light up. And when “Cuff It” comes on, we will dance for Maya. Most of all, we will remember her exactly as she was: full of spunk, deeply loved, and unapologetically Maya. Maya was loved from the very beginning. Maya is still loved. And Maya will be loved forever. Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines.

Robert (Rob) Allan Papp Jan. 18, 1942 – Sept. 11, 2026 Robert (Rob) Allan Papp was born on January 18, 1942 in Harrisburg, Pa. and passed away on September 11, 2026 at First Health Hospice House. His son was with him. He was

predeceased by his parents and a brother. He is survived by his loving wife of almost 48 years, Maureen, his son Michael (Bonnie), their three children Alex, Elizabeth and William (Emma), as well as his daughter, Susan (Curtis) and their two children Jacob and Samuel. He is also survived by his nieces Miriam and Leah Papp. Rob attended St. Theresa’s grade school, Bishop McDevitt high school , Shippensburg State Teachers College and obtained a Masters of Education at St. Joseph‚University. Maureen and Rob lived in South Florida for over thirty years which is where he found his professional calling as a successful insurance broker in property and casualty for several corporations. Rob loved to play golf and tell stories and enjoyed gardening

like his Mom. He also enjoyed a good scotch. He was very involved with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul at Sacred Heart Catholic Church helping those in need. Many years ago he served as Grand Knight of the Knights of Columbus at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. Rob served in the PA National Guard from 1964 to 1969 and was Honorably Discharged. A Mass will be celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Saturday, October 3, 2026 at 11AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, c/o Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 300 Dundee Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374. If you have questions, please call 910420-0220.

Sandra “Sam” Patterson

Tesla Elizabeth Marks

March 28, 1945 – Sept. 14, 2026

March 13, 1989 – Sept. 4, 2026

Sandra Patterson, 81, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2026, from complications of Alzheimer’s disease. Born on March 28, 1945, in McAllen, Texas, she had been a resident at TerraBella Memory Care for the past five years. Sandra attended high school in College Park, Georgia and graduated with honors from Massey Business College in Atlanta. She began her career as an executive secretary with Sylvania Lighting in Atlanta. After moving to North Carolina, she worked at Boles Funeral Home before becoming a mortgage processing manager with First Bank. Sandra will be remembered for her kindness, sense of humor, love of family, and the joy she found in dancing, gardening, and caring for her beloved dogs, Snowflake and Mitch. She is survived by her loving husband of 38 years, Andy Patterson, her devoted son Joey Stubbs of Nordland, Washington; and her three stepdaughters, Karen Denaci of Wilmington, North Carolina, and Jane Bigham and Lauren Drake, both of Charlotte, North Carolina. She was preceded in death by her parents, Joseph and Dorothy Trammell. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home.

Tesla Elizabeth Marks, born on March 13, 1989, in Wayne County, West Virginia, passed away on September 4, 2026, in West End, North Carolina, at the age of 37. Tesla was a devoted and loving mother, cherished by her family and friends for her kind spirit and gentle nature. She dedicated her life to her family, staying at home to care for her beloved six-yearold son, Grayson Christopher Gladden. Her nurturing presence and unwavering support made her an exceptional mother and a cornerstone of her family. Tesla was a woman of many interests, finding joy and fulfillment in cooking, fishing, and tending to her plants. Her love for these activities was only surpassed by her deep affection for her family, with whom she shared countless treasured moments. Known for her laidback demeanor, Tesla brought warmth and comfort to those around her, creating a welcoming environment filled with love and laughter. She is survived by her significant other of 11 years, Chris Gladden; her son, Grayson Christopher Gladden; and her stepdaughters, Hailey Nicole Gladden and Mikayla May Gladden and her father Royal H. Marks. Tesla was preceded in death by her mother Eva Della Clark. Though no services are scheduled at this time, Tesla’s family invites those who knew her to remember her in their hearts and cherish the moments shared with her. Her legacy of love, dedication, and family orientation will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Raleigh Ball Jr. Sept. 2, 1943 – Sept. 13, 2026 Raleigh Ball Jr., age 83, of Vass (Woodlake), passed away on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at his home, surrounded by his family. A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 26, 2026 at 2:00pm at Cox Memorial Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Gregg Newton officiating. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home. Raleigh was born in Virginia on September 2, 1943 to the late Raleigh Albert Ball and Ida May Ball. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Selma Lynn Ball, sister, Ilene Ball, June Horne, Ola Gay Vandyke, brother, Herbie Ball. He was a son, brother, husband, father, and grandfather. He’s finally reunited with his love of 62 years, Lynn. He was an avid golfer, auto sales genius and most importantly a loving family man. He always smiled most when he was on vacation with family, on a golf course, or with his grandchildren. He loved his community, and his community loved him. He could tell you everything about the Carolina Tar Heels basketball and Carolina Hurricanes hockey, he was a lifelong fan and supporter of his favorite teams. He will be missed by everybody he touched, near and dear. He is survived by his daughter, Sherri Ball Cayton (Jim) of Leland, NC, son, Derek Allan Ball (Kelly) of Vass; grandchildren, Evan (Jessica), Walker, Hayden (Daniel), Mallory, greatgrandchildren, Emilia, Ryder, Adaline; sister, Betty Smith of Virginia; brother, Hermus Ball (Anita) of Greensboro. Cox Memorial...”Serving GOD, by serving families in a time of need.”

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

David Michael Seawell Jan. 18, 1967 – Sept. 15, 2026 David Michael Seawell, age 59, of Carthage, passed away on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at his home. A Celebration of Life will

Linda Jane (Woodruff) Dunning April 9, 1943 – Sept. 13, 2026 Linda Jane (Woodruff) Dunning, of Southern Pines, NC, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at the age of 83. Linda was born on April 9, 1943, in Dover, NJ, to the late Herbert A. and Kathryn J. (Gonder) Woodruff. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend whose caring and loving nature touched the lives of all who knew her. Linda was a dedicated stayat-home mother to her two sons. She was always an active participant in their school and church activities, as well as always there for the variety of their sports activities. In her working years, Linda served as a receptionist in a dental office, where her warm and welcoming personality was well suited to caring for others. A woman of modesty and quiet strength. She lived with a strong conviction and remained true to her beliefs and values. Her caring heart and loving spirit were reflected in the way she treated her family, friends, and those around her. In 1998, Linda and Ron retired from Randolph, NJ to Seven

Daniel Paul Strobel May 19, 1986 – Sept. 8, 2026 Daniel Paul Strobel, age 40, of Chicago, Illinois, passed away following complications from Stage IV colon cancer on September 8, 2026. He was a beloved husband, son, brother, grandson, nephew, uncle, cousin, colleague, teacher, mentor, and friend to all who knew him. Dan was born on May 19, 1986, in Columbus, Ohio, to Steve and Anne Strobel. The eldest of seven children, he loved and cherished his six siblings deeply. He graduated from Union Pines High School in 2004, where his classmates voted him “Best to Take Home to Parents.” Dan went on to attend North Carolina State University, earning a degree in journalism. After graduation, he wrote for a variety of magazines and newspapers and spent time teaching English in South Korea in 2012 and again in 2016. He moved to Chicago in 2017, where he built a career as a technical writer and editor in the technology industry, most recently at Motorola. Dan found his greatest joy in time spent with the people he loved, playing and watching sports, listening to music, traveling, and being in the company of animals, who seemed instinctively drawn to his warmth and gentleness.

be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, at 3:00pm at Cox Memorial Funeral Home Chapel. The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home. David was born in Moore County on January 18, 1967, to Mildred Godhue and the late Johnny Seawell. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph Timothy Hill. He is survived by his mother, Mildred Godhue and several nieces and nephews. David was an avid dancer especially to anything Elvis. He also loved to party with his nieces and nephews. He was a loving son, uncle and friend and will be greatly missed. Cox Memorial...”Serving GOD, by serving families in a time of need.”

Lakes, North Carolina. Built a custom waterfront home on Lake Auman. Enjoyed entertaining, boating, and all the special moments of lakeside living. She was a member of West End Presbyterian Church in West End, NC, where she served as a Deacon. Her faith was an important part of her life. Linda delighted in many creative and recreational pursuits. She especially loved arts and crafts and had a particular talent for needlepoint. She also loved playing golf, bowling, and travelled extensively throughout the world with her close travel friends, finding joy in both the adventures themselves and the time spent with others. Linda is survived by her beloved husband of 63 years, Ronald R. Dunning and the loving mother of two devoted sons, Steven S. Dunning (Pittsburgh, PA) and Edward M. Dunning (Sherman Oaks, CA). She is also survived by five grandchildren, Benjamin Dunning (wife Savanna), Matthew Dunning (wife Anna), Jacob Dunning, Samuel Dunning, and Thomas Dunning. She was the eldest sister of Joyce Trauth, Phyllis Westervelt, Mary Beth Crosby, and David Hawkins. Linda will be remembered for her gentle nature, her steadfast convictions, her creativity, and, above all, the love and care she gave to her family. She leaves behind a legacy of cherished memories that will remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. The Family wishes in lieu of flowers for donations to be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital or Wounded Warriors A memorial service will be scheduled and announced at a later date. Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines.

Reserved, intelligent, and quietly charismatic, he had a way of making everyone around him feel at ease. He possessed a rare gift for saying everything that needed to be said in the fewest possible words. Dan was wise, sincere, curious, and entirely without judgment. He thought of others before himself and connected effortlessly with people of every age and walk of life. He will be remembered for his affable sense of humor, his gentlemanly demeanor, and his eternal optimism for Cleveland sports. Dan is survived by his wife, Amira, and their beloved black cats, Kree and Ms. Girl; his parents, Steve and Anne Strobel of Sanford, North Carolina; his siblings, Samuel (the late Katie) Strobel, Emily (Arjun) Dias, Rebecca Strobel, Mary (Garrett) Jefferson, Tom Strobel, and Joseph Strobel of Sanford, North Carolina; his fifteen nieces and nephews; and his paternal grandmother, Joy Strobel of Durham, North Carolina, along with many of his loving aunts, uncles, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his sisterin-law, Katie Strobel, his paternal grandfather Gary P. Strobel, and his maternal grandparents, William and Joan Stampfli. A gathering for friends and family to share memories and pay respects will take place on Sunday, September 20, 2026 from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Guild Row in Chicago, Illinois. All are welcome. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Southern Pines, North Carolina on Wednesday, September 23 at 10:00 a.m., with private interment to follow. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to PAWS Chicago. Services are entrusted to Boles Funeral Home of Southern Pines.

Annie Dillard, Pulitzer-winning author of ‘Pilgrim at Tinker Creek,’ dead at 81 She spent more than five decades exploring the intersection of nature, spirituality and self The Associated Press NEW YORK — Annie Dillard, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author and essayist renowned for her poetic explorations of nature, love, spirituality and the art of writing in the “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek,” “The Maytrees” and numerous other works, has died. She was 81. Her literary agent, Rob McQuilkin, said Dillard died Tuesday of natural causes at her home in South Wellfleet, Massachusetts. Starting in the mid-1970s, Dillard completed a wide range of books, from the poetry collection “Tickets for a Prayer Wheel” to what she would call the “jolly journalism” of “Encounters with Chinese Writers” to the novel of marriage, “The Maytrees,” a finalist for the PEN/Faulkner award in 2008. Seven years later, President Barack Obama presented her with a National Humanities Medal for her “profound reflections on human life and nature.” Born Meta Ann Doak, she was a Pittsburgh native who in the 1987 memoir “An American Childhood” looked back at her early years and on her uniquely curious mind. She was raised by nonconformists who gave her a wide range to learn and to discover, and she remembered with awe her growing sense of knowledge and self-knowledge. Resistant

ANDREW HARNIK / AP PHOTO

President Barack Obama awards the 2014 National Humanities Medal to author Annie Dillard during a ceremony in the East Room at the White House in Washington, D.C., in September 2015. for much of her life to organized religion, she would find the eternal in animals, mountains, her mother’s skin and in everyday objects. At age 13, she wrote, she was reading “books on drawing, painting, rocks, criminology, birds, moths, beetles, stamps, ponds and streams, medicine.” Dillard had yet to turn 30 when “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek” established her as a major, new literary voice and heir to Henry David Thoreau as a sensitive and idiosyncratic observer of the natural world. Published in 1974 and winner of the Pulitzer for nonfiction, “Pilgrim at Tinker Creek” drew upon Dillard’s private writings about the surroundings of her home in Roanoke, Virginia. Invoking Thoreau, about whom she wrote her master’s thesis at Hollins College, she called her book “a

meteorological journal of the mind,” in which she would explore “some of the sights of this rather tamed valley.” “I am no scientist,” she wrote, likening herself to “an infant who has just learned to hold his head up” and gaze about “in bewilderment.” “He hasn’t the faintest clue where he is, and he aims to learn. In a couple of years, what he will have learned instead is how to fake it: he’ll have the cocksure air of a squatter who has come to feel he owns the place,” she wrote. Dillard taught for more than 20 years at Wesleyan University before retiring in 2002. She was married three times, most recently to the late literary biographer Robert Richardson, whom she met after sending him a fan letter admiring his biography of Thoreau.

Presley Gerber, son of Cindy Crawford, model dead at 27 His sister praised him last month for being remarkably open about addiction The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — Presley Gerber, the son of supermodel Cindy Crawford and businessperson Rande Gerber, died Sunday at age 27, a family representative said. Gerber died at a rehabilitation facility, according to online records of the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. The medical examiner did not provide a cause of death Sunday. An autopsy was performed, but more testing is required before investigators can give a cause, according to the medical examiner’s website. The death was confirmed by Allie Jenkins, a representative for Crawford and Rande Gerber, who were married in 1998. “The family is asking for privacy during this very difficult and painful time,” Jenkins said in an email Sunday night. Gerber was model in own right Gerber was a model and the older brother of model and actor Kaia Gerber. He had been open about his struggles with mental health and substance abuse, documenting his journey on Instagram. He even started a “Mental Health Mondays” series on the platform to raise awareness and share wellness tips. Across multiple episodes, he related his own experiences with substances ranging from ketamine to kratom, as well as his time at rehabilitation facilities. He posted an Instagram video in March from Mexico, where he said he planned to take ibogaine, a potent psychedelic that is being studied as a treatment for opioid addiction, post-traumatic stress disorder and other conditions. Ibogaine

— known to sometimes trigger potentially fatal heart problems — is banned in the U.S. under the federal government’s most restrictive category for illegal, high-risk drugs, although President Donald Trump directed his administration to ease restrictions and spur research. Raised in Malibu, California, Gerber signed with the management agency IMG as a teenager and made his runway debut for Moschino at 16. In 2018, he appeared alongside his mother — whose famous beauty mark he inherited — in a Pepsi Super Bowl ad that paid homage to her 1992 commercial for the soda brand. That same year, he and his sister shot a campaign for Calvin Klein jeans. Gerber later signed with DNA Models. His biography on the agency’s website describes him as an entrepreneur and model who was inspired by “his mother’s legendary modeling career and his father’s lucrative business career.” Rande Gerber’s businesses have included restaurants, nightlife companies and Casamigos — a tequila brand he cofounded with George Clooney and Mike Meldman that was sold to Diageo in a $1 billion deal. Gerber open about struggles with addiction Gerber’s modeling biography also described him as an “avid surfer and skater.” In an Instagram video posted in July 2025, Gerber described growing up as a dedicated athlete who spent hours in the water nearly every day — a routine that came to a halt when he started working. With less physical activity, Gerber said, he was put on more medication and his quality of life suffered. “For me it took 10 years of looking back at my life being like, ‘Well, what changed?’ A lot of the time people would ask like, ‘You were such a happy kid; what happened to you?’” he

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Presley Gerber poses at the Samuel Goldwyn Theatre in March 2024 in Beverly Hills, California. recalled. “What happened was life happened and I wasn’t able to worry about one thing, which was my next meal and then get back in the ocean. Like I had to start making money, I had to start — I got a job.” In an interview with Vogue last month, Kaia Gerber praised her brother for being so open about his experience with addiction. “My parents for most of our lives were very, very private and didn’t share anything— and now we have this absolute teacher, my brother, who says, ‘I’m gonna be very human for everyone,’” she told the magazine. “There’s only so much you can hide from the world. And trying to put a lid on something just makes the person feel like you’re ashamed of them.” In addition to his testimonial videos, Gerber’s Instagram was a collection of modeling shoots and memories that stretched back to childhood. His life around cameras influenced his own interest in photography as an art form. “I have always been the type of person to stop and take a picture when everybody is just focused on the destination,” he told Vogue in 2016, on the occasion of his runway debut. “I feel like people walk by a countless amount of beauty in the world every day, and I hope that I don’t miss all of it.”

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North State Journal for Thursday, September 24, 2026

on the campaign trail

PHOTOS BY STAN GILLILAND / NORTH STATE JOURNAL

President Donald Trump flew into North Carolina last Wednesday to campaign in Gastonia for Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley and other Republicans on the ticket in the Tarheel state. Vice President JD Vance flew into Greensboro on Monday for a similar event, as the Senate race appears tight in the polls, with former governor Roy Cooper holding a lead over Whatley.