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VOLUME 11 ISSUE 32 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

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CORY LAVALETTE / NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Shine on you Canes diamonds Jason Arasheben shows off the ring his company, Jason of Beverly Hills, made for the Carolina Hurricanes to commemorate the team’s Stanley Cup title last season. The Hurricanes’ defense of their championship began Tuesday following a banner-raising ceremony at Lenovo Center. See more on the Hurricanes in Sports.

the

Former NC State trainer arrested in Florida

BRIEF this week

Supreme Court lets quick deportations to third countries resume for now Washington, D.C. The Supreme Court on Tuesday let President Donald Trump’s administration continue deporting people to countries other than their own for now while the justices consider whether the policy is legal. The high court said it will hear arguments in December on the policy. Lower courts found migrants must have a meaningful chance to object before being sent to countries where they have no ties. The apparent 6-3 order halts an appeals court ruling for now.

2 Navy aviators eject while landing plane on carrier off Virginia, 6 other sailors also hurt Washington, D.C. Two U.S. Navy aviators ejected as they were landing their plane on the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier off the coast of Virginia, a mishap that also injured six sailors aboard the vessel. It is the latest mishap involving Navy aircraft in the past couple of years, including two Navy jets that collided during an air show in Idaho in May as well as a fighter jet and a helicopter crashing into the South China Sea in October. Pentagon data released last year showed a spike in aviation mishaps across the U.S. military in 2024. The two aviators ejected from their E/A-18G Growler on Monday after a failure of the arresting gear that was designed to bring the jet to a halt after landing, the Navy said in a statement. They were rescued and safely returned to the ship, it said.

Robert Murphy is accused of abusing male athletes By Aaron Beard The Associated Press

Ruling allows Chatham data center to proceed Eco Tip sued in April after the county applied its moratorium to its in-progress project By A.P. Dillion North State Journal RALEIGH — A North Carolina judge has cleared the way for a large data center in Chatham County to keep moving even though the county had tried to freeze new

See CENTER, page A3

Charlotte schools in flux “I was told this information would never be made public if I resigned by Friday. I consider this extortion.” Crystal Hill, former CMS superintendent

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data-center projects for a year. Superior Court Judge John Morris granted a summary judgment to Eco Tip West, the company behind the planned facility near Moncure at the Triangle Innovation Point megasite. Eco Tip sued in April after county commissioners adopted a 12-month moratorium on data centers in February. Eco Tip said it had already

RALEIGH — NC State’s former director of sports medicine faces felony and misdemeanor criminal charges after being accused of sexually abusing former Wolfpack male athletes under the guise of treatment, which previously led to more than 30 athletes outlining allegations in years of civil lawsuits. Authorities in Florida arrested Robert M. Murphy Jr. last Wednesday, and he was being held in the Marion County jail on out-of-state fugitive warrants from North Carolina. That came after a Wake County grand jury indicted Murphy on Sept. 14 on nine felony counts of sexual contact under pretext of medical treatment and 23 counts of sexual battery, a misdemeanor. In a statement last week to The Associated Press confirming the indictment, Wake

The second-largest school system in the state is facing auditor and SBI probes By A.P. Dillion North State Journal RALEIGH — Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools found itself last week with a new acting superintendent, a new board chair and the possibility of a State Bureau of Investigation probe. In a 5-4 vote last Tuesday, the school board fired Superintendent Crystal Hill “for convenience,” a contract clause that costs taxpayers about a year’s salary — roughly $341,000. Deputy Superintendent Melissa Balknight is serving as acting superintendent until she retires in January. Hours earlier, Chair Steph-

anie Sneed stepped down as leader rather than face a vote to remove her. While Sneed stays on the board, Dee Rankin is taking over as chair and Liz Monterrey Duvall as vice chair. The firing and resignation are the culmination of a series of financial and conflict-of-interest issues Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools’ (CMS) board has been embroiled in over the past year. In May, the board quietly hired Greensboro firm Brooks Pierce to investigate Hill. The probe cost $379,429, ran through dozens of interviews and more than a million records, and looked at workplace culture, hiring, vacant jobs and contracts, including more than $1.7 million in work that went to former colleagues See CHARLOTTE, page A3

County District Attorney Lorrin Freeman said the charges were linked to 14 victims who were interviewed by law enforcement officers amid a multiyear investigation. “This is a big step in a longer process committed to seeking justice on behalf of these victims,” Freeman said. “We commend the hard work of law enforcement and the courage of the victims who have brought us to this point.” The Marion County Sheriff’s Office listed the 32 charges but no additional details on its online database after his arrest, which was first reported by ESPN. The case originated with a federal civil lawsuit from a single athlete filed four years ago. That complaint alleged years of misconduct by Murphy, such as improper touching of the genitals during massages and intrusive observation while collecting urine samples during drug testing. The case eventually landed in state court in 2025 with 14 See TRAINER, page A3

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

THURSDAY

10.1.26

the word | If it is God’s will

#561

“Job and His Friends” by Ilya Repin (1869) is a painting in the State Russian Museum in Moscow.

“First in freedom” Visit us online nsjonline.com

North State Journal (USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365) Trip Hoffend Publisher Cory Lavalette Senior Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Jordan Golson Locals Editor Dan Reeves Features Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Stan Gilliland Photographer Published each Thursday by North State Journal

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“We know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God — to those who are called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

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Upon some points, a believer is absolutely sure. He knows, for instance, that an invisible hand is always on the world’s rudder. He also knows that wherever providence may drift — Jehovah steers it. That reassuring knowledge prepares him for everything. He knows that God is always wise, and knowing this he is confident that there can be no accidents, no mistakes — that nothing can occur which ought not to occur.

He can say, “If I should lose all I have, it is better that I should lose it, than have it — if God so wills. The worst calamity is the wisest and the kindest thing which could befall me — if God ordains it.” “We know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God — to those who are called according to His purpose.” The Christian does not merely hold this as a mere theory, but he knows it as a certain fact. Everything has worked for good as yet. Every event as yet has worked out the most divinely blessed results. So believing that God rules all, that He governs wisely, that He brings good out of

evil — the believer’s heart is assured, and he is enabled calmly to meet each trial as it comes. The believer can in the spirit of true resignation pray, “Send me what You will, my God — as long as it comes from You. There has never come a bad portion from Your table, to any of Your children.”

Charles Spurgeon (1834-1892) is one of the most widely read preachers in history and is known by many as the Prince of Preachers. Spurgeon was pastor of the New Park Street Chapel (later the Metropolitan Tabernacle) in London. His works are now in the public domain.

$22.7M in cashflow loans heads to western NC “Our first priority is providing much needed cashflow relief to our mountain communities … as quickly as possible.” Brad Briner, state treasurer

A marina is choked in debris in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene on Oct. 2, 2024, in Lake Lure.

The funds will assist with rebuilding and cleanup efforts following Helene By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal THE LATEST round of cash-flow loans has begun distribution in western North Carolina, sending more than $20 million to communities impacted by Hurricane Helene. “Our first priority is providing much needed cashflow relief to our mountain communities by getting this money to them as quickly as possible,” said Treasurer Brad Briner. “Our Department fully implemented the use of AI into our workflow months ago, with the goal of making administrative tasks easier. “This is a perfect example of how harnessing the power of technology not only made the job more efficient but also meant millions of more dollars heading to communities in need.” According to the North Carolina Department of State Treasurer, AI was used for loan tracking and anticipated repayment schedules, meaning administrative costs were reduced and did not have to be deducted from the final loan distribution. The loans sent to western communities, consisting of $20 million from 2026 and $2.7 million from previous appropriations, are:

• Town of Clyde, Haywood County — $1 million • Rutherford County — $2.76 million • Town of Beech Mountain, Watauga County — $3 million • Madison County — $3.6 million • Town of Canton, Haywood County — $2.8 million • Village of Chimney Rock, Rutherford County — $4 million • Town of Lake Lure, Rutherford County — $5 million • Polk County — $593,670 Funds are administered by the treasurer’s office, with the department receiving more than $100 million in funding requests for 2026, according to a press release. Those receiving loans will repay them with no interest no later than June 30, 2030. The cash-flow loan program was implemented in 2025 to expedite community access to federal funds for rebuilding and cleanup efforts. The 2026 round used applications from local governments, rather than federal paperwork, to determine how much funding each community received.

MIKE STEWART / AP PHOTO

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, October 1, 2026

Troxler weighs in residential development, reelection, farming experiences

ing or he’ll raise a big old paw and smack you if you get too close.” He added the job is “beyond a dream” and that the workers in the department are “really, really good people that go to work every day and try to figure out how they can help people, so it couldn’t get much better than that.” Troxler attributed many of his skills to his background at Troxler Farms, stating he “can’t imagine anybody sitting” as the commissioner of Agriculture without the “experience of farming and running their own businesses.” He explained that it’s a different experience, adding how he faced disasters and financial uncertainties himself as a farmer. According to Troxler, one has “to feel those kinds of things (to) do the job correctly.” Troxler said he frequently draws from past disasters. “Farmers don’t have, in a lot of cases, unemployment benefits that they can draw on,” he said. “It’s all on you to figure your way out of it and be the best businessperson in the world and be able to make decisions based on the business that’s out there. So there’s not one day that my farming career and my career in policy work doesn’t come into play.” He also emphasized how important it is to him for his grandkids to experience the same opportunities he’s had. “No. 1 is being able to live on a farm and farm if they choose,

but also, I want them to have food security,” Troxler said. “I don’t want them to ever not be able to feed themselves or obtain the food they need, and that’s going to come down to, in a lot of cases, policy.” According to Troxler, policy dictates what crops are planted, their price and how much is planted. “That is where my focus has primarily been as commissioner, is trying to work with the farm groups and commodity organizations both at the state level and nationally to develop the policies that were conducive to success for agriculture,” he said. Troxler also touted the North Carolina State Fair’s recent $60 million renovation, including a new food court, and encouraged the public to see for themselves during this year’s run Oct. 15-25. One of his proudest achievements was getting the money to build the Steve Troxler Agricultural Sciences Center. The facility hosts several laboratories that focus on regulatory work for human and animal food, commerce and animal health. Troxler said in his spare time he enjoys “restoring antique farm equipment,” ranging from antique tractors to antique cars, that he “loves working on.” He said the thing he enjoys most is working with his hands — “building things, repairing things.” He also mentioned he’s a dog lover — he and his wife of 54 years, Sharon, have two dogs.

spent about $11 million and that county officials had long known about the project, which was allowed by right in a heavy-industrial zoning district. In a brief filed by Eco Tip, the company argued the moratorium was rushed, poorly drafted and aimed at its project. “Eco Tip realizes that data centers are a controversial topic and that at least thirty North Carolina local governments have passed similar moratoria,” Eco Tip wrote in its brief. “This does not, however, mean these moratoria are legal or that all data centers should be stopped in their tracks.” The brief stated the county had already recognized vested rights under state law and then refused to process a site plan, citing only the freeze. The county countered, claiming the pause was lawful and claiming Eco Tip never obtained a complete development approval before the moratorium took effect. The county also claimed a summary judgment was premature. In the brief three-page order, Morris wrote that after reviewing the record, briefs, exhibits and arguments from an Aug. 31 hearing, he was granting the company’s request for summary judgment. “After careful consideration of the file, counsels’ legal briefs, Plaintiff’s motion for summary judgment, and the exhibits and arguments of counsel during the August 31 hearing, the Court finds that there is no genuine issue as to any material fact and that Plaintiff is entitled to judgment in its favor as matter of law,” Morris wrote. Morris also granted attorney’s fees, and the order directs Eco Tip to file a fee affidavit within 14 days and directs both sides to propose a schedule for the damages phase. Chatham County officials have indicated they are reviewing their options. Including Chatham, at least 12 counties across the state have enacted some type of data center moratorium. Additionally, 17 municipalities also have some type of pause or moratorium in place. In recent county developments, the planning board in Cumberland County put forward a draft ordinance setting data center facility zoning and other regulations during a meeting Sept. 15. The proposal was discussed with the intention of presenting it to

said the same thing in a radio show appearance. The situation blew up after a memo was issued by Hill in mid-September accusing the board of offering her a quiet resignation in June so allegations against her would stay private, a move she characterized as “extortion.” “I was told the Board received ‘several serious allegations’ related to my management of the school system and that I would be suspended due to the ‘nature of the allegations’ and investigated,” Hill wrote. “I was told this information would never be

made public if I resigned by Friday. I consider this extortion.” Hill wrote that when she refused to resign, two days later she learned Brooks Pierce was hired to run what she called a “frivolous” investigation. Hill’s memo also mapped alleged pass-through payments flowing through law firm Poyner Spruill to Qonnect LLC, the company of former CMS executive-in-residence Raki McGregor. The payments included $30,000 a month for housing project work and a second contract of $132,000 on a compliance review, with no direct

CMS-Qonnect contract. The $132,000 comes out to about $13,000 a month, matching McGregor’s old CMS pay. Hill had previously refused to renew McGregor’s CMS contract after controversies involving his wife’s consulting company and his involvement with 2025 school board candidates. On Sept. 18, Mecklenburg District Attorney Spencer Merriweather requested the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) open a formal criminal inquiry into “financial irregularities” in CMS transactions, “beginning in fiscal year

ed an investigation that year and filed no criminal charges. “We are very disappointed that the Wake County District Attorney’s office would choose to prosecute based on a changing story,” Hammett and Blum said. “Four years ago law enforcement concluded there was not enough to support charges. Apparently, after enough careful editing, someone came up with a story that got a prosecutor’s attention. “We, as always, believe that when people hear the actual facts of what occurred, Mr. Murphy will be cleared and the truth will be paramount.” Durham-based attorney Kerry Sutton, who has represented players going back to the original case, told the AP that the number of athletes who have contacted players’ attorneys with similar allegations has grown to 35. “This is a huge development for the men,” Sutton said in a statement about the criminal charges. “They are extremely

grateful for (Wake) ADA Melanie Shekita’s dedication and for the assistance of law enforcement in North Carolina and Florida.” All but two of those 31 athletes were “John Doe” plaintiffs to protect their identity, while two former men’s soccer players were named. One is Benjamin Locke, who filed the original complaint in August 2022 and whose allegations dating to August 2015 were the subject of the NC State campus police’s initial investigation. The AP typically doesn’t identify those who say they have been sexually assaulted or abused unless the person has spoken publicly about it, which Locke has done. The other is one of two athletes who filed their own federal lawsuits in February 2023 and April 2023. One of those cases was dismissed by a district court before being revived in January 2025 by a federal appeals court.

The lawsuit in state court with 31 athletes as plaintiffs listed Murphy, who was at NC State from 2012-22, among nine defendants named individually. Others are school officials accused of negligence in oversight roles, including former athletic director Debbie Yow and current AD Boo Corrigan. The judge’s June dismissal of the lawsuit cited reasons such as the statute of limitations expiring in claims dating back as early as 2013. It had also cited jurisdictional grounds, stating any complaint should go through the North Carolina Industrial Commission — a state agency that deals with workplace matters because NC State is a public university — rather than civil court. In a statement, NC State said it was aware of the criminal charges filed against Murphy. “Sexual misconduct of any kind is unacceptable,” the university said. “The health and safe-

Troxler stated back problems could affect his decision to run for Commissioner again By Jessica Taylor For North State Journal This is Part 2 of a two-part interview. IN PART ONE of an interview with North State Journal, North Carolina Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler discussed his focus on preserving farmland, securing disaster management funding and integrating technology in agriculture. In part two, Troxler spoke on residential development, plans for reelection and his experiences as a farmer and grandfather. Troxler said the preservation of farmland from residential development has been spread across several partners, one of which is the military. The program, Sentinel Landscapes, establishes “farm easements around the military bases to keep encroachment away,” according to Troxler. He added the N.C. Department of Agriculture has federal and local partners to ensure better conservation. He also mentioned the surrounding issues with infrastructure development in the state. “We know that we got the same water resources that we had 15 years ago, and we got all these millions of people moving in, and we know we’ve already had rolling blackouts in ’22 in Christmas from cold weather,” said Troxler. “So electricity and water are going to be two key ingredients to what North Carolina looks like in the future.” As for reelection, Troxler said he “would never quit” being commissioner of Agriculture, though he noted he has back problems that could affect his decision to run for reelection. He said that decision would be made sometime midyear in 2027. “I understand there’s a group of vultures out there circling right now, and of course we’ll see how that goes,” Troxler said. “I would just remind them that lions sleep with their eyes open, so you got to make sure the lion is gone and that he’s not just rest-

CHARLOTTE from page A1 of Hill’s in Cabarrus County. The board put Hill on paid leave in June citing “administrative and operational oversight.” That leave ended in August, when the board brought her back. The board’s own 18-page summary of its investigation into Hill, released only after it voted to fire her, says investigators found no improper conduct, no conflict of interest in her contracting and no harm to classroom operations. Ahead of her firing, Hill had gone public and

TRAINER from page A1 former Wolfpack athletes, with that number growing to 31 joining the lawsuit by late January. A judge dismissed the lawsuit in June, citing procedural reasons, while attorneys for the players have appealed. According to the indictments unsealed last week, the 32 charges scattered among 14 victims covered allegations ranging from October 2016 to fall 2021. Murphy faces as many as six charges with two felony counts related to a single accuser, as well as a total of four charges and two felonies with another. Jared Hammett and Seth Blum, Raleigh-based attorneys who have represented Murphy in the civil suits, have denied wrongdoing by their client. They did so again last week in a statement to the AP in response to the criminal charges that referenced NC State’s 2022 statement that campus police had conduct-

CENTER from page A1

STAN GILLILAND / NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Steve Troxler expects to decide whether he will run for another term as North Carolina’s commissioner of Agriculture next year.

county commissioners at their next meeting Oct. 20. Cumberland’s Board of Commissioners issued its six-month data center pause June 16. Cumberland County’s draft data center ordinance has specific zoning rules for large computing facilities, essentially requiring they be treated like the existing industrial-use facility they most closely resemble. Under the proposal, data centers would be allowed only in the county’s planned manufacturing districts and only through conditional zoning, so commissioners could attach site-specific conditions and consider public input. The draft defines a data center as a facility whose main purpose is housing servers and related gear for storing, processing or transmitting large amounts of digital data; a separate category covers facilities that generate their own power on-site beyond ordinary backup generators. On-site nuclear generation is banned in the ordinance. The proposed standards are built around distance, noise, screening and utilities. Buildings and equipment would need a 500-foot setback from all property lines, increased by 50% next to homes or certain agricultural-district buffers, plus a 1,250-foot structure-to-structure separation from schools, hospitals, nursing homes, daycares and places of worship; those distances could not be waived. For noise issues, operations would be capped at 60 decibels at the property line and 45 decibels next to residential areas. A licensed acoustical study would be required up front and would need to be repeated if the site expands. A 50-foot landscaped, fenced perimeter buffer would be required to surround the site, with extra screening next to residential zoning. As far as utility usage, backup-generator testing would be limited to weekday daytime hours, and water and electricity would have to come from public utilities. Related items prohibited in the ordinance include wells, surface-water withdrawals and evaporative cooling. Any cooling would have to use closed-loop or recycled systems. Additionally, applicants would have to submit written attestations from the water and electric providers that existing capacity can serve the facility at peak load without harming other customers.

2026 and into fiscal year 2027.” Five days after Merriweather’s announcement, State Auditor Dave Boliek visited CMS and held a brief press conference during which he indicated his office was coordinating with the SBI and had been looking into financial irregularities in the district “for weeks.” Boliek was asked to share more details, but he declined. “We’re going to get the facts, and we’re going to let the data lead us to conclusions and answers, and we will deliver those results to the people of Mecklenburg County,” he said.

COURTESY MARION COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Robert Murphy ty of students and student-athletes is paramount to N.C. State Athletics and the university. We are aware of the charges filed by Wake County against Robert Murphy. We will cooperate with law enforcement in this matter. As this is an ongoing legal matter, we cannot comment further at this time.”

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

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

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

Freedom is not just another word to Americans In this 250th year of American independence, it is a good time to take a look at what words and beliefs are the cornerstones of our constitutional governance system. Perhaps the most important word in our collective life and history as a nation has been “freedom.” It was the word used to separate the Colonies from England, and it was the word used for the abolition of slavery as well as various civil rights movements in the late 19th and mid-20th centuries. Freedom is a powerful word and concept. But it must be used with care since, throughout history, there has been a fine line between total freedom and anarchy. The American interpretation of freedom has managed to set a hard, bright-red line between personal freedom and mass mob rule that deserves a closer examination as to why and how it can be preserved for at least another 250 years. Try to imagine living in a nation where people exercised total freedom every day without any regard for the safety or security of anyone else. The strongest would always win any physical contest. The most clever or sinister would always win any competition for scarce resources such as food, shelter or fuel simply because they were exercising their talents to the utmost extent possible in total freedom. However, somehow the founders of the United States figured out how to establish a working government system that not only guaranteed the personal freedoms of each person but also put legal restraints on the extent to which any individual could exert their

“Freedom’s just another word, for nothin’ else to lose.” Janis Joplin

abilities to the detriment of innocent people. It is a truly remarkable achievement in human history and one that needs to be saluted and highlighted time and time again before we forget how great it is. Sadly, there are many on the Democratic left who want to get elected and radically change our government of checks and balances so they can use the coercive power of legislative force to make everyone do what they want, which would be the very antithesis of guaranteeing freedom for everyone. The good news is that there are dozens, if not hundreds, of educational efforts now popping up all around the country dedicated to teaching young college and prep school students the essential truths of our founding documents and why Americans are who we say we have been since 1776. I recently spoke with a young professor at Seton Hill (not Seton Hall) University in Greensburg, Pennsylvania, who had just completed an extensive symposium on the Declaration of Independence. He had seen an enthusiastic response from the multitude of students who eagerly attended every lecture and participated in numerous breakout sessions where they examined the Declaration in depth and discussed how it will apply to them as graduates soon. There was another similar enthusiastic response to a symposium on the impact of St. Augustine on the American democratic republic at Tarleton State University in Texas. A number of other educators at the collegiate or prep school level have told me they are seeing an intense hunger for learning more about our

founding documents from their students, no doubt because of the dilution and diminution of rigorous civics classes at all levels of public and private education over the years. Whatever the reason for the upsurge in interest in our founding documents, we owe it to the next generation of Americans to give them every opportunity to study them and know why America was founded in the first place and what it may take for them to carry it on into the future. Janis Joplin sang “Freedom’s just another word, for nothin’ else to lose” in the somewhat melancholy lyrics of “Me and Bobby McGee” in 1970. Far be it from the American mindset that freedom simply means the absence of living for anything precious. Our American sense of freedom comes from an entirely different perspective, one that comes from a sense of optimism and hope for the future. To Americans, “freedom” is not just another word but rather a cherished word — one that gets bandied about for political purposes far too often without a lot of context or appreciation for its importance in our culture. The American sense of freedom comes from the Judeo-Christian heritage of our founders, who inculcated those values into our founding documents and only wished and hoped that succeeding generations would keep them intact forever. It is up to us, the living generation, to do so in each and every election, including the important one starting in a few weeks.

In the second instance, after all was said and done, four homes that housed a total of 16 people were hit. As the police later processed the scene for evidence, they laid out “more than 100 evidence markers indicative of the number of shots fired,” WSOC-TV reported. The bullets struck two people. One of them, an adult woman, was shot in the leg but is expected to be OK, according to family members. Four-year-old Caleb Flax, who was sleeping next door in his bed, was also struck by one of the bullets. His mother, Bryanna, said she was sleeping right next to him when it happened. She told QC News that she “turned the light on; all I saw was blood on my baby.” “They shot him in his head, and it went through his brain,” she also stated. Little Caleb Flax, who family members said was looking forward to kindergarten, was taken to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead just after 7 a.m. In the aftermath, there have been vigils held over the tragic death of Caleb Flax, who pictures show was a smiling, happy young man who should have had a bright future ahead of him instead of a funeral having to be planned for him way too soon. At one gathering, it was noted by QC News that “organizers said they want to see more

mentorship programs, job opportunities, skills training, and employment pathways in communities affected by violence. They are also calling on elected leaders to make the safety and future of children a priority.” Crime prevention measures are all well and good, but Flax’s grandfather, Frank Hampton, nailed it in comments made to WCNC, which shared that he stressed “stricter laws and punishment need to be considered when it comes to criminals.” “Please change, please get this court system right. Once they catch ’em, let’s keep ’em in there. No house arrest, none of this ankle monitoring things,” he pleaded, something families of other victims of violent crime have also been demanding for years. Right on. No suspects have been arrested in this case. Anyone with information is urged to report it in one of three ways: by dialing 704-4328477 (TIPS), accessing the P3 Tips Mobile App or navigating online to the Charlotte Crime Stoppers website.

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

When does it stop? “Once they catch ’em, let’s keep ’em in there. No house arrest.” Frank Hampton

CRIME IS A FACT OF LIFE. One’s home, one’s neighborhood being the “safest” around doesn’t guarantee that nothing will ever happen. Because of that, we must work extra hard to make our communities safer by doing a combination of things, one of which is to lock up the bad guys and have them serve hard time instead of repeatedly releasing them back onto the streets to victimize innocent people. The murder of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska aboard Charlotte’s light rail system in August 2025 reignited the debate over crime and safety measures last fall, and while changes to the law that were made in the aftermath have had a positive impact, more still needs to be done. As evidence, we turn to another senseless killing that recently took place in Charlotte. The date was Sept. 20. It was a seemingly quiet night in the Barley Greens community. But sometime about 3 a.m., when most everyone is normally asleep, gunfire erupted in the 900 block of Grassy Patch Lane, a sound that is all too familiar for many Charlotte residents. A Ring doorbell camera caught the sound of the shots as they rang out. It was the second time in less than a month that homes were shot into in the neighborhood. In the first instance, a woman was injured.

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.

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.

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

COLUMN | S. PHILLIP JAMES

COLUMN

A vote, not a confession “The ground of Christian hope was never an election count.”

SIX YEARS before Roy Cooper asked North Carolinians to send him to the U.S. Senate, churches asked a federal judge to stop his administration from restricting how they could worship. On May 16, 2020, U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III blocked enforcement of the challenged limits in Executive Order 138, which pushed larger worship services outdoors while retail stores could operate indoors at reduced capacity. The court found the churches likely to succeed on their free exercise claim. Many North Carolina Christians remember that episode. The question is not whether officials faced a real emergency in the spring of 2020; they plainly did. The question is whether an emergency suspends the obligation to justify restrictions on a fundamental liberty, especially when government treats a church differently from a store. A good intention is evidence of what an official meant. It is not the end of the inquiry. That is a sound principle. The trouble is that Christians tend to apply sound principles in one direction. James asks, “Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom” (James 3:13, NKJV). Wisdom is not proven by a party label, a campaign ad or a profession of faith. It is displayed in conduct. We cannot examine a candidate’s heart. We can examine his record. James was not writing an election guide. But Christians do not stop being accountable to his categories in a voting booth, and he adds a standard that examines the voter before the candidate: the wisdom from above is “without partiality and without hypocrisy” (James 3:17, NKJV). So apply the same test to the Republican nominee. Michael Whatley has made public safety a centerpiece of his campaign, arguing that Cooper was too lenient on crime as governor. That is a legitimate argument; Cooper’s public safety record deserves the same scrutiny as his record on churches. But at a Charlotte police lodge in August, Whatley went further, saying Cooper “is going to have a procriminal agenda the moment that he gets to the Senate.” Notice what that sentence does. It turns a disputed assessment of Cooper’s policies into a verdict about the agenda he would pursue. Voters can examine the policies and their consequences; the label asks them to accept the verdict first. James spends the first half of his chapter on the tongue, the small member that sets a forest

ablaze. Campaign rhetoric is not exempt, and it runs in both directions. One recent Cooper ad quoted Whatley accurately, but a factcheck found that the timing of several remarks mattered. It also found Cooper’s claim about grocery prices was false when he made it. A Christian who objects when Cooper’s defenders excuse the church restrictions as good intentions should object just as readily when his own side substitutes a label for an argument. Both moves ask the voter to stop thinking. Christians must distinguish revelation from inference. Scripture sets moral boundaries we have no authority to move. But it does not supply line-item answers on emergency management, bail policy or trade. Between biblical principle and a ballot stands a chain of factual judgments: What happened? What authority was exercised? What alternatives existed? Which candidate is more likely to govern wisely? Those judgments are prudential. Calling them “biblical” does not raise them to the authority of Scripture; it only hides where Scripture ended and our reasoning began. That is not relativism. It is humility. The mirror questions are uncomfortable. Would I defend the same executive order if a Republican governor had issued it? Would I accept “pro-criminal” if a Democrat said it about my candidate? A standard that changes with the jersey is not much of a Christian standard. Voting, then, is judgment under uncertainty. No candidate embodies James 3, and no voter has complete information. A ballot is a prudential judgment about real people exercising real power, not a declaration that God endorses a candidate or a party. Election night will matter. But Hebrews tells Christians to “hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23, NKJV). The ground of Christian hope was never an election count. Take your faith to the ballot box. Let it govern how you weigh power, liberty, character, evidence and your own motives. Cast the wisest vote your conscience allows, then walk out remembering that you cast a vote, not a confession. Your ballot belongs in the box. Your hope does not. S. Phillip James is a North Carolina pastor and writer whose work focuses on Christian thought, culture and public life. He is a Ph.D. student in applied apologetics at Liberty University.

COLUMN | JOSH HAMMER

Trump’s Greenland agreement is ‘the art of the deal’ in action That’s a win for the Monroe Doctrine. It’s a win for the United States.

IN 1867, the United States purchased Alaska from the Russian empire for $7.2 million. The deal was widely ridiculed. Critics called it “Seward’s Folly,” after the secretary of State and lead negotiator, William Seward. In hindsight, given the state’s immense natural resources and strategic location, it’s tough to think of Alaska as anything other than one of America’s most important territorial expansions since Thomas Jefferson’s Louisiana Purchase. Yet many have still not learned their lesson about the Monroe Doctrine, which warned foreign powers not to meddle with the U.S. in our hemisphere. Even fewer have learned their lesson about America’s national interest in the Arctic region. President Donald Trump’s new Greenland deal proves it. Just before his second term, Trump again declared U.S. ownership of Greenland an “absolute necessity.” Shortly afterward, Donald Trump Jr. and the late Charlie Kirk toured the island. Ever since, Trump the elder has repeatedly argued that the U.S. must acquire Greenland, citing its prized location and its coveted rare-earth minerals. Democrats and transatlantic elites scoffed in unison. Rep. Pete Aguilar (D-Calif.), the House Democratic Caucus chairman, called Trump’s rhetoric “completely unhinged.” Sen. Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.) took a break from conveniently ignoring his disgraced friend Eric Swalwell to rebuke Trump as “an idiot.” Former British Prime Minister Keir Starmer blasted Trump’s threat of tariffs on nations opposed to an American acquisition as “completely wrong.” French President Emmanuel Macron attacked the possible duties as “unacceptable.” In reality, Trump was just doing what he does best on the world stage: Pursue “the art of the deal” by aiming very high, applying massive leverage and then landing in a place that isn’t exactly where he was targeting but that still redounds solidly to the American national interest. True, the new deal Trump just signed with the Danish and Greenlandic prime ministers on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly doesn’t acquire Greenland for the U.S. But in every other way, this deal is a yuge win for the administration. The deal affirms two new sites where the U.S. will station troops and build bases. That’s in addition to America’s lonely current outpost,

the remote Pituffik Space Base, home to about 150 troops. That outpost will also now be “modernized and expanded.” The deal explicitly includes Greenland in Trump’s sprawling “Golden Dome” missile defense system. It clarifies that no non-NATO nation can ever establish a military presence in the tundra. And it binds Denmark to working closely with the U.S. to counter Russian and Chinese espionage in the world’s largest island. And finally, the kicker: The deal gives the U.S. “permanent control over security and all other needs” in Greenland, regardless of whether Greenland ultimately wins independence from Denmark. That’s a win for the Monroe Doctrine. It’s a win for the United States. It’s a win for Trump. And it’s another win for Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who ironed out the final deal in his typically smooth fashion. Trump and Rubio sealed the deal by ceding on sovereignty while pressing on America’s bona fide, tangible security concerns. The only surprise here is that people like Gallego and Macron are still triggered, allowing themselves to be repeatedly triggered by Trump’s over-the-top opening gambits. Fact is, Trump’s “art of the deal” on the world stage follows a well-established pattern — and has a corresponding record of results. On NATO, Trump secured a massive win after lots of blustery rhetoric, getting NATO leaders last summer to commit to spend at least 5% of their national GDPs on defense by 2035. On Iran, Trump may not (yet) have instigated the toppling of the radical Islamist theocracy, but he has crippled the mullahs’ nuclear ambitions, missile stockpile and petroleumbased economy. He’s used trade incentives and economic leverage to secure pro-America peace deals in decadeslong conflicts as far-flung as those between India and Pakistan, as well as Armenia and Azerbaijan. Again and again, Trump’s critics freak out over his rhetoric, lambaste him as a lunatic or a tyrant (or both) and then watch as he negotiates a deal that results in him basically getting what he wanted in the first place. And most important: The United States wins big time. Trump’s haters won’t see it that way. But Trump doesn’t care. He’ll stay focused on the bigger picture. It’s what the great men of history do. Josh Hammer is a Creators Syndicate writer. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

PAUL STAM

I will vote against a constitutional amendment limiting income tax rate to 3.5% THERE IS A constitutional amendment on the ballot this fall to limit state income tax rates at 3.5%. I am opposing its passage and urge you to do the same for the following reasons. Does this amendment actually restrain spending? Why is it a constitutional amendment? It seeks to remedy the spending problem by permanently capping the state income tax rate at 3.5% instead of 7%. This amendment would lock in a future cap to the rate of 3.5% with which North Carolina has no experience. Since the personal income tax provides one-half of the revenue for the general fund, this is a risky bet. The proposal assumes that the decrease in the rate would bring in more revenue just as the increase in revenue occurred after the rate was decreased from 7.75% to 4.5%. This is an economic fallacy — the point of diminishing returns and the logical fallacy — post hoc ergo propter hoc. To change that maximum rate would take another constitutional amendment requiring three-fifths of the whole House, 72 votes, and 30 votes in the Senate, plus a statewide referendum. Unlike a veto override, a constitutional amendment requires 72 positive votes, not three-fifths of those voting. Absences, vacancies or defections will make change impossible. Why would November 2026 voters think they have superior knowledge of government policy to voters in 2028 or beyond? This proposal makes no more sense than one that required a minimum level of income taxation. Particular problems with this amendment It restricts increases only on income tax rates — not increases in overall state taxes. It requires increased rates on other taxes. It is no surprise that the Senate plan is to reduce income taxes to 2.5% while adding services subject to sales tax and adding sin taxes (alcohol, gambling, tobacco, marijuana) to fill the gap! Would the Senate be willing to tax prostitution in the future? Why not? There is a problem with squeezing income tax receipts into taxes on services. A tax on services is an income tax on gross income. Suppose the “sales tax” was extended to the services of a CPA. What is a sales tax on a service but an income tax on gross income? A CPA could refuse to pay the 6.75% “sales tax,” claiming that it exceeded the 3.5% constitutional limit on taxation of income. The budget would be in chaos. This amendment only restricts the rate of tax. A future General Assembly that wanted to spend more could decrease personal exemptions or eliminate popular deductions. It would encourage more borrowing. Receipts from a bond would not count against the income tax limitation. Resulting spending could be counted over decades rather than the years the money is borrowed. It would have a negative effect on our AAA bond rating. Bond ratings themselves are just opinions. Bond ratings (opinions) matter — a lot. If we lose our AAA rating, the cost of borrowing increases. Bond rating agencies hate tax limitations that apply to the future. The massive problem of government overspending is primarily at the federal level — not the state level. At the federal level, we are more than $40 trillion in debt. Someday, a responsible Congress will meet a responsible president and come to a “Grand Bargain” on spending. Suppose that “Bargain” included a $1 trillion yearly reduction in federal spending — $900 billion would not be spent at all; the other 10% ($100 billion) would be devolved to the states to cover functions that truly belong to states but have been hijacked by the feds. Conservatives would be in a state of delirious joy! During the second Trump administration, we have already seen large reductions in monies devolved to state and local government, albeit with a large increase in deficits that cannot be blamed on the pandemic. That “Grand Bargain” would require a $3 billion increase in North Carolina state revenues. Taxpayers would be delighted because of the corresponding huge reduction in the federal tax and debt burden. But it would be virtually impossible for N.C. to take up this offer if this amendment passes. So many members have taken a “no tax increase” pledge. A future amendment would have to rely on others to vote “aye.” They would impose unacceptable demands as ransom for the votes necessary to revise the state constitution. I will vote no on Nov. 3, 2026. Paul Stam served 16 years in the state House of Representatives, the last 10 as Republican leader and speaker pro tem.

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MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at North State Journal for Thursday, October 1,WITH 2026 China lied about the origin of the ONE THING IS CERTAIN; after thisthanks COVID-19 virus cavalierofmanner orders to local ordissipates state governments,The a majority Ameri WEEK, virus, according to members tried to tell the world there were only “THIS around the globe and in the United will to pay forTHIS this covered up its spI areStates, havingChina to adjust what is being called the “new normal.” and state and local governments, Amer worldwide panic, economic collapse and in it” (Psal catastrophe one way or another. 3,341 related ha Some of these orders extend at least through the end deaths of this m or stay-at-home fallen into place. I understand the seriousness of the virus and the need the curve in the novel coronavirus outbr ylace being thrown out of work. I know In order to put the crisis causedVirginia’s by Chinastay-at-home in perspective, zero go into June. millions of Americans t orders ority of at Americans to take precautions, but I’m uneasy with how people who simply ask — after all, trends canhas easily xpayer least $2.4 trillion in added working fr worldwide pandemics can trace their source to theCarolina, Unitedmuted States over costrev th Here in North Democratic Gov.The Roycrisis Cooper stated d w normal.” questions back to have abided by recommendations and o ral Reserve backup liquidity to the about the data, and when things can start getting be glad” as our 231-year history. At least fourainrecent the 20th century alone be that “we debt plus trillions coronavirus press can briefing just don’t know more yet” end of this month. are treated in some circles with contempt. to flu,” stay 1977 at home; they’ve practiced socialto the U.S. dollar were notnormal the reserve dad, directly traced to China: flu,” 1968 “Hong orders Kong markets financial state’s stay-at-home will extend into May. andand Since when1957 did “Asian They’re treated as though we as a society simply must accept without they’ve donned masks. o fund any of these emergency have tonot bet “Russian flu” and the 2002 SARS outbreak. There is evidence that the currency, would Perhaps If he it, questions should bewe asked as to Wedoes needdecide to extend WALTER E. WILLIAMS questioning ooper stated during question what the government tells us about when it’s massive safe to begin the The result: a reduction in expected ho Lenten and ar of rampant inflation and currency pandemic. 1918 “Spanish flu” pandemic also had for its origins in China. measures without justification it. And the answers should not be vague onesimm like COVID-19 n’t know yet” if the process of returning back to normalcy. transparency According to the University of Washing For me, seasons government There is 100% agreement, outside of do China, thatofCOVID-19 depreciation. must this out an abundance Easter of caution.” is China’s No. The government works for us, and we have the right to askin those Metrics and Evaluation model most oftA rrant ways and decisions through and honesty originated Wuhan Province probably from the has to pay for provide a China at all levels It will need tocompletely be explained in detail to the people ofmaking. this state e asked as to the And the longer stay-at-home orders are in place all over the Trump administration, the expected ne Diplomacy has obviouslyquestions. not worked Corinthian Chernobyl. unregulated and unsanitary wet markets. believe it came of at a home economic and financia fromSome our to are being told remain joblessout and message offor an undetermine become a vague likecentury “we health, country, and the stricter some of them get in states, such as Michigan, peak outbreak was revised down by ove worldones of 21st hygiene affliction, biowarfare lab run by the communist Chinese army. to we bring China into the scientific experts amount of time why models predicting hundreds thousands o hope that willof bad thing? thethe more people, sitting at home feeling isolated and/or anxious about ventilators by nearly 13,000 and the nu munist regimes never take blame affliction, Until China adopts rigorous verifiable policing and regulation of and fair trade. Totalita are reliable. — we need to again enjoy sincere e of this state who when will demand byonce nearly 12,000. morse, because that is not whatthey can get back to providing for their families,their God.” That is what food safety and health protocols, American business August has nowhat other or express To know date, what I’ve gone the state has asked andregre then they along with undetermined answers. Here’s the problem: We still don’t kno sporting events, ey take advantage of every weakness If you ar choice than tofree build redundant manufacturing totalitarian citizens mandated thatplants we do,elsewhere but alongpurely the way I’ve also had governmen questions a of cases at the local and state levels should be as forthcoming as they know, what they questions that will allow the economy to pf thousands pushing until they win orLeaders the reflect on concerts, family for national security and safety reasons as well as supply and delivery they find in adversaries the data. State Republican leaders have, too. as living in a free can be with those answers — and again, not vague answers, but concerns. answer First, what is the true coronavirus fat God’sback. exam don’t and when reliability adversaries gatherings, Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get push asked, ther AMERICA’S COLLEGES are rife with society were asked and then with details that give their statements believability. important because it determines wheth event happens such as the Chernobyl this difficu The most direct way to make China “pay”hope for this is to offer That is, unless an exo they to disaster h corruption. The financial squeeze resulting sometimes a disturbing tendency among people to treat th church some services ad questions about We should we can to keep our families, be open or closed,meltdown whether we oughtSom to s believe that event, not the Star Warsall continue confident supposed from COVID-19 offers opportunities for a to do what U.S. tax credits to companies whosimply willknow source at least halfdata ofcare, their in 1986. Lower-cost access what they questioning the and asking when we can start gettin children’s hospitals andpresumes w and many more that Sponsored by Union and our communities safe. But we should also still continue more liberalized society to the dissolution of theourselves, Soviet In thisled sw bit of remediation. Let’s first examine what production back in the States. There is though approximately $120 program of are Reagan, expands asSponsored financialby to do, lastUnited I to normal as they are conspiracy theorists or people continuity of care for patients don’t. after our own get asked, there to of ask questions about the data, because while reasonable stay-at-home ought to lock down further. mightisbe the root academic corruption, neighbors billion worth checked. of American direct investment in plants and equipment inor1989. with medical needs. sick. terms stay private otherwise don’t care if they getcomplex themselves others s. title of a recent study, ple to treatsuggested those by the measures are understandable, they should also have an date. direct investment in the U.S. is about $65We’ve seen fatality rates — Conc the ni temporary Chernobyl. In The differences the inexpiration China. Chinese billion by case between Perhaps COVID-19 Since when did questioning government at all levels become a “Academic and to theAmericans, and it is not normal. Not in any way, North State Journal for Wednesday, April 15, an starttalking getting backGrievance ThisStudies is all new the number of identified COVID-19 cas lready about the possibility money to b tiers can be substantial. sacrifices are comparison. Senators in Washing thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supp Corruption of Scholarship.” The study was we should remain vigilant and stay safe, at or are people who shape, or form. So while Under the Standard PPO and the denominator are likely wrong. W By Dan Reeves n debt we owe them as one way to get health car An investment tax credit of 30% U.S. investment in China over. of China forgiving $1.2 toon do,half lastof I checked. done by Areo, an opinion and analysis plan, an individual using North State s sick. same time we shouldn’t get Journal comfortable with this so-called “newbillion, applied to repatriated American manufacturing people have actually died of coronaviru hey have caused US. the Don’t hold your today, or $60 China to Pre“pay” for the d digitalthe magazine. By the way, Areo is short My first concern as we go along in all this, of course, fam ferred providers will have a is my vels become a bad normal.” number has been overestimated, given bilee” to happen but ask your elected n for Areopagitica, a speech delivered by investment to the U.S. would cost the U.S. Treasury $18 billion in breath waiting for a Ch worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. A annual deductible iety were supposed Not one little bit. RALEIGH — What began of$1,500 death, particularly amonginelderly pat countable in tangible financial ways for John Milton in defense of free speech. tax revenue spread over a few years. $18 billion lost revenue is(swine hold suffering fromin the H1N1 virus flu) representatives during the at 2009topande 2027. That rises to $3,000 as a public standoff over hospiin. Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A. sources suggest the number is dramatic decimal dust compared to the $6 I’ve trillion+ Plan extra wethe areprecautions, now levelthis Access anddisaster. $5,000 tal prices and higher costs for been Marshall trying to take because all of this brin Lindsay and Peter Boghossian say has that also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah rse, to is my family. Stacey Matthews many people are dying home. cted operate as I’m responsible citizens of fora painful Non-Preferred state employees has ended in undertaking to save our own economy, notmany of defeated enemies as in the Itproviders. is at about timenot they way too memories of experience I’ d prefer to something drastically wrong rried I will. After has gone and is a regular contributor to RedState Legal Insurrection. Evenindividual more importantly, we have no c nation. The out-of-pocket a deal between Atriumand Health past. the world like any othe But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone in academia, especially within certain he 2009 pandemic, maximum rises from $4,000 actually have coronavirus. Some scienti and the North Carolina State China has been cheating, stealing, pirating and pillaging American fields within the humanities. They call for Preferred carecould to $6,500 Health Plan, giving thousands all of this brings up of identified cases be an order of m business now for the past 30 years. They have made no secret that they these fields “grievance studies,” NEW YORK — More than 83 whereof members greater access to for Access and $12,000 for Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill,corona senio prefer notscholarship to repeat. number of people who have had not so much based upon intend to replace the U.S. as the premier superpower in the Non-Preferred world and care. tons of meat is are being recalled Atrium facilities when a new most everyone hastruth but upon attending to finding replace the dollar as the reserve currency with their renminbi.The SHP says members can across the U.S. because the tiered healthcare system takes

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FACTS

Atrium, State Health Plan reach deal ahead of 2027 enrollment A6

More than 160K pounds of meat with false USDA labels recalled Approved Logos

social grievances. Grievance scholars

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continue seeing any in-netproducts were not properly effect Jan. 1. COURTESY N.C. TREASURER’S OFFICE bully students, administrators and other work provider, but they will The agreement moves a dozinspected by federal authorities departments into adhering to their generally pay less by using Preen Atrium hospitals and as- North Carolina State Treasurer Brad Briner, who chairs and were shipped out with worldview. The worldview they promote is JasonMost proferred providers. sociated clinics into the plan’s the State Health Plan Board of Trustees, helped negotiate falsified inspection stickers, the n neither scientific nor rigorous. Grievance EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS viders statewide will fall into Access tier, preserving benefits an agreement adding 12 Atrium Health hospitals and Department of Agriculture said. ose studies consist of disciplines such as the Access tier. Members unclose to current levels for rural associated clinics to the plan’s Access-level network Star Meat Delivery Inc., based sociology, anthropology, gender studies, dergoing cancer treatment or hospitals, children’s hospitals beginning Jan. 1, 2027. in Lucama in Wilson County, COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON queer studies, sexuality and critical race a transplant, pregnant memand several types of specialized isstudies. recalling more than 167,000 bers and families with a child care. Atrium’s primary care pounds of raw pork, beef and In 2017 and 2018, authors Pluckrose, in neonatal intensive care can providers, behavioral health tering open enrollment withgoat nationwide. The USDA said Lindsay and Boghossian started continue using Non-Preferred out publicly identifying the size office visits and emergency serthat numberbogus could academic grow as it papers to s submitting providers while receiving Acvices will also remain available of Atrium’s rate concession or “This agreement continues investigation. academic its journals in cultural, queer, cess-level benefits under tranwithout the higher costs at- the projected dollar savings includes meaningful race, gender, fat and sexuality studies Food produced without sition-of-care provisions. Certached to the plan’s Non-Pre- from the agreement. The of- affordability to determine they would pass peer inspection mayifcontain tain other complex conditions fice’s response also confirms ferred tier. “THIS IS THEfallen DAY the lord has mad he seriousness of and theallergens, virus andharmful the review be accepted for need publication. undeclared MOSTover STATES either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home into place. I unde commitments from may also qualify for exceptions. negotiations 2027 under The deal comes ahead of that WITH Acceptance of dubious in it” (Psalm 118:24). asy with how people who simplyresearch ask that open enrollment, which runs SHP bacteria or other contaminants, orders to local or state governments, to take precautions, bu Behind the changes is a rates thanks have concluded. Atrium Health.”a majority of Americans journal editors found sympathetic to their agency said last Tuesday I knoweffort that during this the challenging hen thingsthe can start getting back to in broader toquestions control The deal follows a dispute Oct. 12-30, and ends months are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.” about the datt intersectional postmodern announcing theor recall. So far, leftist vision working frommedical home orexpenslosing a job, it es with contempt. plan’s rising pubof uncertainty for State Health that became Brad state treasurer Some ofincreasingly these orders extend at Briner, least through the end of this month. normal are treated inm s of the world would prove the problem of there havemust been accept no confirmed es. SHP officials say healthin July after the SHP rolled Plan (SHP) members who use lic Virginia’s be glad” as the Bible tells us to do. How as a society simply without stay-at-home orders go into June. They’re treated as th low academic standards. reports of it’s illnesses or begin injuriesthe caredad, coststhe have been increasing one of North Carolina’s largest out its new provider structure. and Easter holiday hasthe remind ells us about when safefake to Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during question what gove Several of the research from the meats, according to papershealthcare systems. The SHP fastertothan availableand funding UNC Health and Novant face limited alternatives or dif- have be thankful hopeful for, ev malcy. were accepted for publication. The Fat a recent coronavirus press briefing that “we just don’t know yet” if the process of returning ba and that, without changes, the the USDA. care. covers nearly 750,000 teach- Health were awarded Pre- ficulties changing Lenten and pandemic. r us, and we have journal the right to ask those Studies published a hoax paper state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May. No. The government plan would have faced a 21% Atrium rural hospitals in ers, state employees, retirSince when did ferred Provider contracts efThe meat in question was that argued the term bodybuilding was For me, increase my faith is an important par t-home orders are in alldates” over the Easter seasons he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked as to the questions. And the long premium and benefit Anson, Cleveland, 1 after agreeing to Alleghany, ees, lawmakers,questioning university and fectiveIfJan. produced “onplace various exclusionary andas should be replaced making. As I celebrated Easter with my f them getbefore in states, such Michigan, reductions. the SHP is the stricte Columbus, Lincoln, Scotland, rates,forwhile Duke community college personnel, discounted justification it. And the answers should notabe vague ones like “we Instead, country, and provide Sept. 22 and has USDA with “fat bodybuilding, as a fat-inclusive government Corinthians 1:4, which reminds us our e feeling isolated and/or anxious about attempting to use its purchasStanly and Wilkes counties Health later joined the Access and their dependents. inspection falsely One reviewer must do this out of an abundance of caution.” the more people, sitting message of politicizedstickers performance.” ing power and nearly 750,000 included inthe thepeople agreement, was initially large- are “Our objective has always tier. Atrium affliction, so that we may able com ding for their families, will demand bearing an establishment at all levels It will need to be explained in detail to of this state who when theybecan gettoback ns said, “I thoroughly enjoyed reading this hope that Chatham we will members to encourage hospital Hugh been clear and consistent — ly classified as Non-Preferred, along with affliction, with the comfort which we ou number — EST. 1363 — that are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined answers. , article and believe it has an important a systems to compete on price. Children’s Hos- God.” which would have meant high- Health. Levine we must offerbecome our members once again enjoy the agency said “does not have levels should be as forthcoming as they contribution to make to the field and this of time why predicting hundreds of thousandsThat of cases at the local a strategy hasLeaders produced in Charlotte, Gordon out-of-pocket costsmodels for pital high-quality care forthing? affordable er amount bad ajournal.” federal of inspection.” sportingJeff events, If you are celebrating the Easter seas d again, not vaguegrant answers, but answer are reliable. can be with those answ agreements with each of North prices,” State Treasurer Brad members who continued us- Children’s Hospital in Concord However, some packages “Our Struggle Is My Struggle: Solidarity That is what reflect on this message and be comforte ments believability. concerts, family To date, I’ve gone along the state has asked then details Carolina’s major with hospital sys-that give th andwhat Brenner Children’s Hospi-and of its hospitals and with Briner said when the agreeing many people purchased may not bear Reply to Feminism as anfamilies, Intersectional God’s example comfort allallthose in what we can to keep our tems,about but notand onWe identical tal inthe theway Triad arealso alsohad covered ment was announced Sept. 14. specialists. free citizens mandated that we do, but along I’ve questions should contin gatherings, labelingand because retail se Neoliberal Choice Feminism,” was this difficult time. Through faith and b safe. But that we should also still continue terms. UNC Health and Noat the Access level. Advocate Health Chief Fi“For the plan,living that must inthe data. State Republican leaders have, too. services ourselves, and our com church in a free accepted publication by Affilia, a stores mayfor have applied their vant secured Preferred status The agreement also addressOfficer Brad Clark reclude reduced prices from pro- nancial confident we will emerge out of this pan because while reasonable stay-at-home Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there is to ask questions about s feminist journal social workers. The own stickers with for pricing and many more societytowere byInoffering what the SHP dealready viders as compared what sponded at the time that the es patientsand this same spirit, I continue to be i hey shouldsafe-handling also have aninstructions, expiration date. sometimes a disturbing tendency among someundergoing people to treat those measures are understa paper consisted in part of athe rewritten scribed as helping better overall value, Members neighbors decision could leave more complex treatment. they are charging today.” after our own supposed neighbors. and it is not normal. Not in any way, passagewarned. from Mein Kampf. Two other simply questioning the data receiving and asking when cancer, we can cysstart getting backof Atrium Thiswill is all agency while much re-new to Am certain 130,000 state employBriner said the agreement than temporary In Concord, a high school senior nam uld remainhoax vigilant and stay safe, at including were published, to do, last I Thepapers products were shipped to to normal as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who shape, or form. So whil main outside that lowest-cost includes “meaningful afford- ees facing substantially higher tic fibrosis, transplant and spe. “Rape Culture and Queer Performativity money to buy a 3-D printer and plastic comfortable with this so-called “new sacrifices are Georgia distributor A&D Foods otherwise don’t carereceivif they get themselves or others sick. tier. The SHP saysthe time we shou nosame additioncialized heart care can continif they continued ability commitments” checked. from costs atsend Urban This paper’s subject health care workers his own hom to to Dog retailParks.” and restaurant al health systems willout beof addreceiving qualifying Atrium through The ue government Atrium that improve access ing care Since when Atrium. did questioning at all levels become a bad normal.” over. was dog-on-dog rape. But the dog rape locations nationwide. ed as Preferred providers for treatment at the Access benefit pushed back, saying offiwhile supporting the SHP’s SHP thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed Not one little bit. paper eventually forced Boghossian, The USDA said the products had attempted to engage level. Pregnant members will 2027. long-term finances. What cials to do, last I checked. Pluckrose and Lindsay to prematurely out The Atrium agreement reshould be considered those commitments are worth, Atrium before the tiers were not be required to change oben under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah My first concern as we go along in all this, of course, is mymoves family.some I’m ofStacey Matthews has a themselves. A Wall Street Journal writer the sharpstetricians or delivery plans for however, remains outside pub- established. misbranded and unsafe to eat RedState and Legal Insurrection. had figured out what they were doing. worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After and is a regular contri est consequences of the origiBriner and SHP officials met 2027. lic view. and be discarded or returned to Some papers accepted for publication suffering from the H1N1 virus (swine flu) during the 2009 pandemic, nal arrangement, particularly “We recognize many State North State Journal asked with Atrium leaders in Raleigh the place of purchase. in academic journals advocated training I’ve been trying take extraHealth precautions, because allhave of thisfor brings rural up communities and paPlan members 27. Both sidesto described the Treasurer’s Office how on July The agency said the problem men like dogs and punishing white male tients whose care cannot easibeen concerned about what not meeting as constructive much of a reimbursement dis- theway too many memories of a painful experience I’ d prefer to repeat. was discovered during the college students for historical slavery by ly be moved these changes could mean foreveryone to continue talking. count Atrium agreed to and and agreed But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most has from one hospital USDA’s Food Safety asking them to sit inand silence on the floor in system to another. them and their families,” MiLess than two months lathow much the agreement is exInspection Service’s routine in chains during class and to be expected to It also leaves one of the cenchael Parkerson, executive er, they reached the current pected to save the SHP in 2027. checks. It’s not whether learn from the clear discomfort. Other papers vice president and chief man- tral business questions unan“We have closed out nego- agreement. anyone has been arrested or ity celebrated morbid obesity as a healthy life The compromise does not aged health officer for Advo- swered: exactly how much the tiations for the 2027 calencriminally charged. choice and advocated treating privately dar year for State Health Plan place Atrium alongside UNC cate Health, Atrium’s parent SHP saved by making the deal. Star Meatmasturbation Delivery, in as a form of conducted Members will begin sorting rates,” the Treasurer’s Office Health, Novant Health and organization, said in announcd violence against asexual statement posted on itswomen. Typically, through those choices when said in response. “For your oth- Iredell Health in the Preferred ing the deal. as academicpage, journal editors send Facebook pushed back at submitted Parkerson said the agree- open enrollment begins Oct. er questions, we don’t disclose tier. Instead, it provides Acpapers outthat to referees for review. In the notion the inspection details of individual negotia- cess-level treatment for ser- ment preserves access to pri- 12, with the new network and recommending acceptance stamps on its products werefor publication, vices and facilities where state mary care, emergency and be- benefit structure taking effect tions.” many reviewers gave these papers glowing somehow falsified. It said That means the state is en- officials said members could havioral health services, rural Jan. 1. praise. the establishment number Politicalwas scientist Zach Goldberg ran in question “legitimately ss certain grievance studies concepts through reserved” as part of the USDA d the Lexis/Nexis database, application process while it to see how often they appeared in our press over the years. seeks approval to process and He found huge increases in the usages package meat for the Georgia of “white privilege,” “unconscious bias,” distributor. ng “critical race theory” and “whiteness.” approval process AllThat of this is being taughtisto college still underway, Star Meat said, students, many of whom become primary although the meat involved was who then c. and secondary school teachers sourced from a USDA-inspected indoctrinate our young people. supplier. n I doubt whether the coronavirus“No other products sold caused financial crunch will give college by Star Meat Delivery were o? and university administrators, who are a mislabeled, no other crossbreed and between a parrot and jellyfish, products soldbackbone by Star Meat the guts and to restore academic respectability. Far Delivery are part of too the often, they get much of their political support from campus recall that has been issued,” grievance people the company said.who “Weare are members of the faculty and diversity cooperating fully with and the multicultural administrative offices. to appropriate authorities The the bestapplication hope lies with of finalize and boards are trustees, though many serve as yes-men following the recall procedures for the university that have been putpresident. into place.”I think that a good starttriggered would bebyto find 1950s or 1960s Recalls catalogs. Look at the course offerings at forged inspection stamps are a time when college graduates knew how relatively rare, according to to read, write and compute, and make Keith Schneider, a food safety them today’s curricula. Another helpful professor atbe thetoUniversity of consideration tool would give careful Florida in Gainesville. to eliminating all classes/majors/minors “This is someone a containing the wordtaking “studies,” such as shortcut,” he said. “Systems women, Asian, black or queer studies. are in place thesethe sorts I’d bet that to bycatch restoring traditional of things, and it appears the academic mission to colleges, they would ATRIUM HEALTH / WIKIMEDIA COMMONS system worked as intended. You put a serious dent into the COVID-19 can’t skip inspections.” budget shortfall.

s’

VISUAL VOICES

It’s okay to ask questions about when The we begin to get back to comfort normal and ho

Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center in Charlotte is the flagship medical center for Atrium Health, which reached an agreement with the North Carolina State Health Plan to expand lower-cost access for members beginning Jan. 1.

Walter E. Williams is a professor of economics at George Mason University. THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

High airfares could stick around even if jet fuel prices fall Travel costs remain elevated as carriers rethink capacity By Rio Yamat The Associated Press TRAVELERS could be stuck paying high airfares even if oil and jet fuel prices fall, major U.S. airlines and industry analysts say. The price of jet fuel shot up after the Iran war began and retreated sharply in the spring before surging again as the summer went on. Such fluctuations make it harder for airlines to plan ahead and give them a reason to be cautious about lowering ticket prices, according to Brett House, an economist who teaches at Columbia Business School. Jet fuel has risen even faster than oil during the war, reflecting both higher crude prices and tight supplies of the refined fuel that is one of airlines’ largest operating expenses. Carriers cut some less profitable flights and raised fares and baggage fees, although major U.S. airlines said higher passenger revenue initially covered only part of their soaring fuel costs. Airfares haven’t moved in lockstep with fuel prices, however. The Argus U.S. Jet Fuel Index plunged from an early April peak of $4.88 a gallon to a wartime low of $2.70 in June, but average fares remained elevated.

The average fare rose from $405 in the last three months of 2025 to $428 in the first quarter of this year and to $436 in the April-June period, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. Part of the disconnect between fuel prices and airfares comes down to timing, House said. Airlines typically decide several months in advance how many flights to operate and seats to offer, factoring in expected fuel costs and other expenses. While prices for seats on the same flight can change repeatedly, airlines can’t charge more for seats already sold if fuel prices suddenly spike, he explained. “It’s not just the level of fuel costs that is a problem or a challenge for airlines,” House said. “It’s also the volatility.” There are few signs of relief so far for travelers as airlines adjust their schedules and prices for the remainder of the year. In August, U.S. airfares were 23% higher than a year earlier, according to the Labor Department. Jet fuel prices kept climbing this month, reaching $4.53 a gallon on Sept. 17, according to the Argus index. At $4.30 a gallon last Friday, the average price remained nearly twice the 2025 average. Travelers shopping for holiday flights are encountering the highest airfares in a decade, travel-booking company Hopper said in a report published the same day.

US, China release $60B nonsensitive product lists for tariff cuts

MATT ROURKE / AP PHOTO

An aircraft lands at Philadelphia International Airport in 2025. Airlines have kept fares elevated as volatile jet fuel prices complicate scheduling and pricing decisions.

“It’s not just the level of fuel costs that is a problem or a challenge for airlines.” Brett House, Columbia Business School economist The renewed pressure on jet fuel prices stems from many of the same disruptions that have sent diesel prices soaring. Fighting has curtailed refinery production and fuel exports from the Middle East, while Ukrainian strikes have damaged Russian refineries. Because diesel and jet fuel are closely related products that compete for refinery output, shortages of one can put additional pressure on the price and availability of the other. By the time fuel prices jumped again, about 35% of United’s tickets for the final three months of the year were already booked and the airline could not increase those fares retroactively, Chief Financial Officer Mike Leskinen said. The airline expects to recover its higher fuel costs through revenue

but not immediately, he said. Speaking about the rising price of jet fuel at a Sept. 16 investor conference, Leskinen said, “I don’t actually care if it stays high. I just need it to stabilize.” The time it takes airlines to recoup their costs means travelers may keep paying for a fuel spike even as prices come down. Jet fuel prices need to fall and stay down for airfares to decline on a sustained basis, said Stephen Treanor, a finance professor at California State University, Chico, who has studied airlines’ exposure to fuel price risk. American, United and Southwest Airlines have said they are pruning their flight schedules further, particularly on less profitable routes, due to higher fuel costs. United, for example, pulled some December flights and warned of further cuts in 2027 if fuel remains expensive. American said it expected to grow more slowly next year than it anticipated a few months ago. “The likelihood that fuel surcharges are going to be rolled back and airfares are going to be brought down is very low over the next few months,” House said.

New Mexico jury finds Facebook liable for deceiving users about privacy protections Last Friday’s verdict is the latest in a series of recent rulings against Meta

A New Mexico court recently ordered Meta to pay $942 million in penalties and remedies and make changes to Facebook and Instagram aimed at protecting children.

By Mikella Schuettler The Associated Press A NEW MEXICO jury last Friday found Facebook liable for deceiving users about privacy protections on the platform in the latest legal setback against the social media giant that has already cost it billions of dollars. The jury found more than 43 million violations of state consumer protection law, and it is now up to the judge to determine how much the company would pay, with attorneys representing the state asking for the maximum $5,000 penalty per violation. “The verdict marks a significant victory for New Mexico consumers and holds one of the world’s largest technology companies accountable for its conduct,” the New Mexico Department of Justice said in a statement. The two-week trial in Santa Fe centered on accusations that Facebook, owned by Meta, deceived users about a data breach stemming from a third-party personality quiz that harvested data from roughly 87 million profiles and sold it to a political consulting firm, Cambridge Analytica, to generate targeted ads. The now-defunct firm’s clients included the 2016 campaign for Donald Trump. Jurors sided with prosecutors, finding Facebook made deceptive statements about protecting users’ data that affected New Mexico’s entire population of more than 2 million people. The jury also found Facebook misled the public about investigations into third-party app developers that harvest user data following the Cambridge Analytica scandal. Facebook claims state’s evidence “outdated” “We disagree with the verdict and will continue to defend ourselves against efforts to dis-

THIBAULT CAMUS / AP PHOTO

“Meta’s platforms are forums for free expression.” Alex Burgos, Meta spokesperson tort our record,” said Alex Burgos, a spokesperson for Meta, in an email. During closing arguments, lawyers for Facebook claimed the state’s evidence was outdated and that, despite having five years to gather material, New Mexico found only one other instance of a data breach. In one of the few wins for the defense, jurors found the state didn’t prove that Facebook made false claims about removing harmful content, including misinformation about the COVID-19 pandemic. The state claimed the company favored certain accounts and allowed for violent or inaccurate content to proliferate. During closing arguments, Randi McGinn, an attorney representing the state, argued that Facebook profited off harmful content. Facebook denied the claims, arguing the company has adapted its policies since the

state’s lawsuit was filed in 2021 and that it removes 99% of content that violates standards. In a deposition played for jurors, CEO Mark Zuckerberg said the company had robust systems to determine whether content should be taken down. “Meta’s platforms are forums for free expression,” Burgos said in a statement after the verdict. “We have a First Amendment right to manage those platforms in a way we believe best serves the interests of our community. This means prioritizing free speech, protecting our users’ information and giving them control over their data.” Expert says impact on company remains unclear Despite jurors finding millions of violations, it’s unclear how much of an impact the case will have on the company’s bottom line, given how profitable Meta is. “It’s unlikely that this is going to be the case that effectively penalizes the company in a meaningful way,” said Peter Ormerod, an associate professor of law at Villanova University. Ormerod said the social media company has very high margins and previously skirted regulatory actions on its platforms.

If the state successfully persuades the judge to award the maximum civil penalties for every violation, the company could owe more than $200 billion, with interest accruing if it decides to appeal. The judge will have to weigh complex arguments from both sides about what penalties are fair. In a previous case, New Mexico secured $942 million over the platform’s policies to protect minors. Judge will decide penalties at later date Attorney General Raúl Torrez told reporters following the verdict that all money awarded will go into a fund for the state’s education system. The state is also seeking an injunction to stop similar practices in the future. Last Friday’s verdict follows several others against Meta recently. In August, Meta agreed to pay up to $18 billion to settle a multistate lawsuit involving child safety issues. Buried in the 130-page settlement was an agreement to release Meta from future liability related to the Cambridge Analytica privacy breach, making New Mexico the only state to decide to pursue a case on its own.

Hong Kong The United States and China have released lists of products worth about $30 billion each that will see tariff cuts. The deal is expected to help boost bilateral trade. The announcement follows a meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C. The U.S. had already reduced tariffs against China after Trump’s tariffs reached as high as 145% last year. China’s commerce ministry stated that the agreement will help strengthen trade cooperation. The lists, released Monday, include 1,619 U.S. goods entering China and 77 categories of Chinese goods exported to the U.S.

Nvidia security platform stops AI agents from going rogue Nvidia has unveiled a new security platform designed to prevent AI agents from going rogue. The Open Agent Safety Platform includes software that sets boundaries for AI agents. It comes after revelations of AI models escaping and breaking into other organizations. Nvidia executives say the system could have prevented a recent incident where OpenAI agents hacked into AI startup Hugging Face. Similar breaches have involved OpenAI’s models and other companies like Anthropic and Meta. Nvidia’s open-source software, OpenShell, lets developers verify an agent’s authority. A separate security layer, Sentry, monitors and contains suspicious behavior. More than 100 companies are already using the system.

Walmart claims personal info not used to set prices New York Walmart is aiming to assuage customers’ fears about its new pricing technology as it rolls out digital price labels at its stores. In a statement posted online, Walmart CEO John Furner vowed that the Bentonville, Arkansas-based retailer isn’t using personal information like income, shopping history or a shopper’s willingness to pay to set prices, and it won’t be doing so in the future. The pledge comes as concerns are mounting from some shoppers, consumer advocates and lawmakers skeptical about the rollout of digital price labels by Walmart and other stores.

TikTok settles Ala. lawsuit for at least $100M TikTok has agreed to pay Alabama at least $100 million and implement safety features for teens as part of a settlement that resolved an impending trial. Alabama sued TikTok in 2025, claiming the platform negatively impacts youth mental health. The settlement includes changes for teens like the option for nonpersonalized content feeds, a two-hour daily time limit and a ban on nighttime use. TikTok will also enhance parental controls and content moderation. Alabama could receive up to an additional $183.8 million if other states reach similar settlements.

NCDOT CASH REPORT FOR THE WEEK ENDING SEPT. 24

Beginning Cash

$2,240,050,013 Receipts (income)

$450,306,468 Disbursements

$330,978,527 Cash Balance

$2,359,399,650

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

Jones & Blount

Murphy to Manteo A little more green: $4M awarded to NC parks North Carolina State Parks and its parent agency, the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, announced last week that the Land and Water Conservation Fund, a program under the federal Department of the Interior, has awarded nearly $4 million total to nine local parks and recreation projects across the state. North Carolina receives an annual allocation from LWCF, which is managed by DNCR through State Parks. LWCF supports park projects for the state, at the county and municipal level, and across tribal communities. Local governments can use the funding for land acquisition, new recreation facilities, or improvements to existing parks. This year, local communities could apply for up to $500,000 per project with a required dollar-for-dollar match. The state parks system features 35 state parks, 26 state natural areas, four state recreation areas, seven state lakes, four Natural and Scenic Rivers, and 17 state trails — spanning over 265,000 acres of iconic landscapes and welcoming 18 million visitors annually.

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

8 4

2026-27 Grant Recipients: 1.

Bone Camp Creek Acquisition, Mars Hill

5. Windsor Park, Matthews

6. Lake Tillery Park Acquisition, Norwood

2. Cove Creek Park, Watauga County

Heritage Park Phase II, Hope Mills

3. Washington Mills Park, Mayodan

8. Stith-Talbert Park, Rocky Mount

4. Granite Civic Park, Granite Quarry

9. Greenfield, Wilmington

WEST

PIEDMONT

EAST

Region marks progress since Helene devastation

Winston-Salem fashion week celebrates designers from across Triad

Fire, explosion destroy 2 oceanfront homes in Emerald Isle

Forsyth County Winston-Salem Fashion Week returned for its 12th annual season last week with a “Threads of Innovation” theme, intended to highlight creativity, craftsmanship and the visionary voices shaping fashion’s future, according to organizers. This season featured several stylists and designers from across the Piedmont Triad and surrounding areas. Partnering with local and regional businesses, municipalities and agencies, the event showcases designers and industry professionals in an educational platform that offers an opportunity to launch their brands in the industry.

Carteret County Two homes were destroyed when a massive fire broke out Saturday afternoon on Emerald Isle. The fire on the Carteret County island was reported just after 4:30 p.m. in the 1100 block of Ocean Drive, according to the Emerald Isle Fire Department. By the time fire crews arrived at the scene, heavy flames were reported, and officials closed Ocean Drive. An explosion followed by a massive fireball, and the blaze also damaged at least three surrounding homes, according to emergency officials.

Yancey County Yancey County marked the two-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene on Sunday with an event that highlighted the progress made since the storm. The storm caused major flooding with landslides that left many isolated and waiting for help. Speakers at the event talked about the county’s resiliency and how community members came together to help. There were speakers from community organizations and lawmakers, and also a special message from country singer Eric Church. NSJ

Central list created to identify unaccounted people in future weather emergencies Buncombe County After Hurricane Helene, there are families in western North Carolina still trying to find their loved ones, and during the storm, there was no one place to report people who could not be reached. In response, the North Carolina Center for Missing Persons has created a new “missing endangered weather alert” to offer one central list of unaccounted people in the event of a weather emergency. The central list would confirm who is safe and send cases to local law enforcement. NSJ

Motion filed to dismiss Page-Berger case

15-year-old shot by deputy in critical condition Catawba County A 15-year-old boy was shot by a Catawba County sheriff’s deputy last week in Sherrills Ford, prompting an immediate investigation by the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation. The juvenile was transported to a Charlotte hospital and was last reported in critical condition. The incident occurred at a residence on Reed Creek Drive in the Sherrills Ford. Catawba County deputies were attempting to locate the juvenile at the request of the Troutman Police Department, which was seeking a teenager allegedly in possession of a stolen handgun. According to a statement from the sheriff’s office, “When deputies arrived, they encountered the juvenile armed with a firearm. The juvenile was shot by a deputy during that encounter.” Authorities have not released specific details regarding whether the juvenile pointed or fired the weapon, the number of shots fired or the precise circumstances that led to the shooting. No deputies were reported injured during the incident. WNC NEWS

NSJ

Man charged in Caraway short track shooting Randolph County A Greensboro man has been charged with two felonies following a shooting at Caraway Speedway, a short track located in Sophia on Saturday night. Randolph County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a shooting near Race Track Road in Randolph County and found two victims who had sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Both subjects were transported to local hospitals for treatment. Following the investigation, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division arrested Derek Luther Marshall, 22, of Greensboro on Sunday. WGHP

Bottle Shop manager pleads guilty to embezzlement scheme Mecklenburg County A manager and an employee of a Huntersville bottle shop have been convicted of felonies including tax fraud and obstruction of justice. Managers of Crafty Beer Guys pleaded guilty to several charges Sept. 14, including aiding and abetting the embezzlement of state property, Attorney General Jeff Jackson announced. Court records show Kristian Pedersen, while president and manager of CBG Draft Services and Crafty Beer Guys between 2019 and 2022, embezzled more than $600,000 in North Carolina sales tax and pocketed the money. Further, he and employee Janna Donohue also altered records in the businesses’ QuickBooks accounts to conceal how much in sales tax they charged and collected from customers. Both were indicted on charges in October 2025. Pedersen pleaded guilty to embezzlement of state property and obstruction of justice, and Donohue pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice. Pedersen also repaid $614,334.95. Pedersen also is the owner of Valhalla Pub and Eatery in Charlotte. WFMY

NSJ

N.C. fire marshals name first female Fire Marshal of the Year Pender County Pender County Fire Marshal Amy Burton has been named the 2026 North Carolina Fire Marshal of the Year by the North Carolina Fire Marshals’ Association. She is the first woman to receive the North Carolina Fire Marshal of the Year award. She was also the first female fire marshal in Pender County and, earlier in her career with the Town of Leland, the first woman to achieve the rank of EMS battalion chief. WNCT

NCDOT continues to assess road conditions after powerful coastal storm Dare County Dare County officials reported Sunday that a part of a major stretch of highway was washed away by a powerful nor’easter. North Carolina Highway 12 suffered significant damage over the weekend due to high winds and rough surf. According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, about 500 feet of undermined and/or broken pavement was reported on the highway between the Basnight Bridge and Rodanthe at the Canal Zone and Pea Island Visitor Center, and throughout the weekend, more damage became visible. Officials said NCDOT would complete the damage assessment, then meet with the county to discuss the next steps — such as a reopening timeline or the activation of emergency ferry assistance between Stumpy Point and Rodanthe. County officials also said they were working to get trucks carrying food, fuel, medical supplies and other essentials to Hatteras Island while some remain isolated. Travel between villages remained open, according to officials. NSJ

RALEIGH — Rockingham County and Kevin Berger have asked a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit filed by Sheriff Sam Page this past June. The motion and 61-page supporting brief, with exhibits, were filed Sept. 21 in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina. The defendants asked the court to dismiss the complaint with prejudice. “The Complaint does not plausibly allege the required elements of any of Plaintiff’s claims,” the supporting brief states. “It attempts to drag politics into the courtroom and should be dismissed under Rule 12(b)(6) of the Federal Rules of Civil Procedure.” The motion also says Page’s complaint, “even when viewed in the light most favorable to Plaintiff, fails to state a claim upon which relief may be granted.” Page’s lawsuit alleges that county officials, including Berger, retaliated against him for opposing casino legislation backed by Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Eden) and for running against him. Kevin Berger, son of the state senator, is a member of the Rockingham County Board of Commissioners. Page’s complaint seeks damages, including punitive damages against Berger personally, plus declaratory and injunctive relief. Page defeated Phil Berger in the Republican primary in March for his Senate District 26 seat. Page will face Democrat Steve Luking in the November general election. The defendants’ dismissal brief restates the complaint’s core allegations, noting Page has served as sheriff since 1998 and that his current four-year term runs from December 2022 through this December. On the state pay claim, the brief quotes state statute on compensation and argues that treating COLAs and merit increases as protected “other compensation” is a legal conclusion. The attorneys argue Page hasn’t shown a clear, current money loss and the board later added the two earlier cost-of-living increases to his pay, as well as noting the dispute over next year’s salary and his retirement reporting has not yet produced a set amount he is owed. The brief tracks how the county treated Page’s salary after his current term began in December 2022. At that time, Section 10 of the budget ordinance set his pay at $116,619 per year. That ordinance also said benefits and raises, including merit increases, cost-of-living adjustments and pay-study increases, “will be offered in the same manner as other County employees and as required by law.” Later budget ordinances dropped that raise language for the sheriff and the register of deeds. The brief says the fiscal year 202526 ordinance listed Page’s salary at $156,289, which it describes as a $39,670 increase in less than five years. In that same fiscal year, a new payroll system gave the standard cost-of-living increase to every county employee, including Page. The county later called that increase an overpayment and asked him to pay it back. Separately, the brief says that on June 22, Berger made a motion, and the board

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“The Complaint does not plausibly allege the required elements of any of Plaintiff’s claims.” Brief in support of the dismissal motion

voted “to apply the COLA for FY 24-25 and the COLA provided to other County employees in FY 25-26 to Plaintiff’s and the Register of Deeds’ base salaries.” The brief says the board took no action on fiscal year 2026-27. The brief also recounts other allegations from the complaint, such as that the sheriff’s office had maintained a Fidelity Bank checking account holding vending-machine proceeds, called the Canteen Account, and that the office disclosed the bank, name and authorized signers to the county finance department in 2011. The attorneys for the county and Berger wrote that Page’s complaint doesn’t allege the board authorized the Canteen Account, approved a budget for it, authorized spending from it or that Page subjected it to annual audits. At a Jan. 20 meeting, Berger allegedly called it Page’s “secret bank account that was discovered by the Finance department.” Page’s complaint also alleges that Berger, or others acting with him, asked the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) to investigate the account “upon information and belief.” The brief also describes allegations about missing pre-July 2017 campaign finance reports, Berger’s April 2025 public-records requests to the county board of elections using his official email, and Berger’s social-media posts about the reports and the Canteen Account. Addressing the First Amendment claim, the brief questions suppression, detailing Page’s campaign journey through the March primary, which he won, stating, “The Complaint claims no instance when Defendants silenced, chilled, deterred, or restricted him.” The attorneys argue Page’s complaint strings together budget votes, socialmedia posts, records requests, an investigation request and missing records, asking the Court “to treat these disjointed events as a coordinated retaliatory scheme simply because Plaintiff ran for office against one commissioner’s father.” As to Berger individually, the brief says social-media posts were on personal accounts, records requests are available to any citizen, and the complaint doesn’t allege Berger had authority to direct the SBI. Neither set of parties has yet commented on the case.

A10

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

NATION & WORLD

Pope Leo draws 800K to first Mass in Paris The pontiff called on Catholics to let their faith “overflow” By Thierry Chen The Associated Press

JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO

President Donald Trump, center right, shakes the hand of Chinese President Xi Jinping as first lady Melania Trump, right, and Chinese first lady Peng Liyuan, left, watch as they arrive at the National Archives Museum last Friday in Washington, D.C.

PARIS — Hundreds of thousands of people packed Paris’ iconic Champs-Élysées avenue to attend an open-air Mass with Pope Leo XIV on Saturday, a sign of the Catholic Church’s enduring appeal in the once staunchly Catholic but officially secular country. The Vatican estimated that 800,000 people attended — about 200,000 more than the number who had registered in advance. The turnout testified to the church’s lasting influence in France despite declining attendance and secularizing trends that have emptied churches across Europe. The American pope greeted the flag-waving, cheering throngs from his popemobile during a 1.2-mile parade along the grand boulevard leading to the Place de la Concorde for Mass, essentially the heart of Paris and a symbol of the French republic. In his homily, Leo asked the crowds not to keep their faith to themselves but to instead “let it overflow, so that those you meet may be refreshed and their thirst satisfied.” “From this beautiful city of Paris, I pray fervently that the living water of the Holy Spirit may flow throughout France,” he said. Although a security blanket shut down central Paris to road traffic, the partylike atmosphere drew people of multiple faiths and no faith at all. The fervor spanned generations. People brought dozens of babies and young children from the crowd for Leo to caress on the head as he rode slowly past aboard the popemobile. “The message of Pope Leo goes well beyond Catholic people; he speaks about social justice, for example,” said Leontine

GREGORIO BORGIA / AP PHOTO

Pope Leo XIV greets faithful as he arrives to celebrate Mass at Place de la Concorde in Paris on Saturday.

“You see a lot of different people here, so it’s not just about one race, religion or nation, but about a common belief in humankind.” Thierry Chen Joseph, 42, a fervent Catholic who came with two friends of Moroccan origin who grew up in Muslim culture. Leo has sought to encourage French Catholics to persevere in their faith “even amid the thorns” of a secular world during his four-day visit. It began last Friday with his arrival and prayer at the restored Notre Dame, the first by a pope since the cathedral’s devastating 2019 fire. It continued Saturday night when Leo arrived in Lourdes in southern France, home to one of the Catholic Church’s most visited shrines. At the Catholic Institute of Paris on Saturday morning, the pope said he was surprised by the number of new converts in recent years. “We must recognize, welcome and protect the small flame that

the Holy Spirit has kindled in the darkness of the night, the tiny seed that strives to grow even amid the thorns,” he said. Adult baptisms in France each year have tripled since 2016, hitting 13,000 this year. But statistics and experts caution that the uptick, which has also been recorded in secular Spain, doesn’t counteract the overall downward trend. In 1980, there were 513,000 baptisms in France; in 2024, a total of 186,000. The rivers of people who crammed central Paris and their joyful enthusiasm rivaled other communal but nonreligious moments of celebration that marked France in recent decades. Huge crowds celebrated on the Champs-Élysées when France won the soccer World Cup in 1998 and again in 2018. Many on Saturday didn’t identify as Catholics but came to hear the pope’s message. “People are seeing a lot of really terrible images. This kind of event reminds people of what is really important in life,” said Thierry Chen, a 40-year-old Parisian startup entrepreneur who is not Catholic. “You see a lot of different people here, so it’s not just about one race, religion or nation, but about a common belief in humankind.”

PUBLIC MEETINGS FOR PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO RAMSEY STREET FROM MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. FREEWAY TO BETHUNE DRIVE IN FAYETTEVILLE, CUMBERLAND COUNTY STIP NO: U-4403 FAYETTEVILLE: The N.C. Department of Transportation will hold two open house style public meetings to provide information on the proposed improvements to Ramsey Street from the Martin Luther King Jr. Freeway to Bethune Drive in Fayetteville. Wednesday, October 14 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. First Baptist Church 302 Moore Street Fayetteville, NC 28301

Thursday, October 15 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Cedar Falls Baptist Church 6181 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28301

Proposed improvements would widen Ramsey Street to six lanes and provide accommodations IRU SHGHVWULDQV DQG ELF\FOLVWV 7KH SURSRVHG SURMHFW ZRXOG KHOS UHOLHYH FXUUHQW DQG IXWXUH WUDI¿F congestion and improve safety of this heavily traveled corridor. Additional improvements are also being considered at these two major Ramsey Street interchanges — I-295 and Martin Luther King Jr. Freeway. NCDOT representatives will be available in an informal, open house-style setting to answer questions and gather public input regarding the proposed project. The opportunity to submit written comments or questions will be provided at the meetings or via the webpage (https://publicinput.com/ramseystreet), email (ramseystreet@ publicinput.com) or phone (984-205-6615 and enter code 2502 to leave a message). Citizens may attend at any time between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. either day. There will be no formal presentation, and the same information will be available at both meetings as well as on the webpage. For more information the NCDOT Project Manager: Craig Freeman Project Engineer NCDOT Highway Division 6 PO Box 1150 Fayetteville, NC 28302 NCDOT will provide auxiliary aids and services under the Americans with Disabilities Act for disabled persons who want to participate in this public open house. Anyone requiring special services should contact Diane Wilson at ext-pdwilson1@ncdot.gov or (919)670-7686 as soon as possible so that arrangements can be made. Those who do not speak English, or have a limited ability to read, speak or understand English, may receive interpretive services upon request prior by calling 1-800-481-6494.

Aquellas personas no hablan inglés, o tienen limitaciones para leer, hablar o entender inglés, podrían recibir servicios de interpretación si los solicitan llamando al 1-800-481-6494.

China, US agree to establish AI safety channel The nations also said they would continue trade and military talks By Huizhong Wu The Associated Press BANGKOK — China and the United States agreed to establish a channel for handling AI-related incidents and accelerate work on military crisis communications following a three-day summit between President Xi Jinping and President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C., the two governments said Saturday. They also agreed to continue cooperating through a Board of Trade focused on selected bilateral issues. The White House said the board began operating this week. The summit produced no major breakthroughs, but analysts said the steps toward greater cooperation were important because they established working groups that could help prevent disputes from escalating. Xi returned to Beijing on Saturday, according to the state-run Xinhua News Agency. During the visit, Trump displayed unusual warmth toward Xi despite having escalated a trade war with China the previous year that had global repercussions. The two sides agreed to sign a memorandum of understanding on strengthening crisis communications and preventing crises between the two militaries, China’s Foreign Ministry said Saturday in its readout. The one-page statement from the Chinese side was light on details. Both sides will set up a communication mechanism for artificial intelligence-related incidents, to discuss related risks and benefits, with an AI-specific dialogue scheduled for November. Trump indicated Saturday that there would be limits on what the U.S. would share with China and said that Washington would not slow its AI efforts. “(The) United States of America is not going to be putting on brakes,” Trump told reporters outside the White House. “They want to stop our progress because we’re leading China by a lot and we’re going to keep it that way.” He added: “I would rather not integrate because we’re leading by a lot. When you’re leading, you don’t open it up to each other. We’re leading by at least a year, maybe a year and a half. Some people say two years. I’m not looking to open it up.” The statement from China said both sides will continue to work together on the pledge to reduce reciprocal tariffs on roughly $30 billion worth of goods. During the summit, the two leaders agreed to extend a trade truce by two months. The White House statement said China agreed to import at least 10 million metric tons of coal from the U.S. in 2027 and 2028. Most of the reduction in tariffs is aimed at nonsensitive goods, such as agricultural products or holiday decorations. The statement from the White House also said the two sides continued to work on American concerns about rare earths supply, “with the goal of ensuring shipment levels return to appropriate levels.” China put export controls on rare earths last year in response to the U.S. tariffs, cutting the supply sent to the U.S. and other countries. Both sides agreed to meet at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen, China, in November and then later at the G20 at the Trump National Doral Miami golf club in Florida. Both governments said Iran should honor its stated commitment not to develop nuclear weapons. They also said no country should charge tolls on international waterways, an apparent reference to the Strait of Hormuz, where traffic has fallen significantly since the U.S. war with Iran began. The U.S. statement welcomed China’s decision to impose export controls on two additional precursor chemicals used to produce fentanyl. Both sides also noted recent arrests in fentanyl-related cases.

“(The) United States of America is not going to be putting on brakes.” President Donald Trump on artificial intelligence

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North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

Farm Aid 2026 Nelson, Young, Mellencamp return to cause still unsettled 41 years later Farm Aid keeps the music loud and the plight of American farmers louder in Virginia Beach By Dan Reeves North State Journal VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Long before Willie Nelson & Family closed Farm Aid 2026, Neil Young was already talking about why the event remains necessary 41 years after its first concert. “Farmers are the soul of America,” Young said during the festival’s morning press conference. Young, 80, spent much of his remarks focused not on music but on farmers and what they see happening to the land long before those changes become part of a larger public conversation. “Farmers get the first glimpse,” he said. “They can see it coming. They feel it. They may not articulate it the same way as someone else will, but they’re the ones on the front lines.” His remarks turned political at times as he criticized the direction of the federal government, called for moving away from fossil fuels and urged people to vote. But Young continually returned to farmers and what they see in their fields. “You can see it out in the fields, you can feel it coming, you can feel it in the wind,” he said. Climate change, Young said, can be difficult for people to grasp because it develops slowly, even as farmers deal with its effects season by season. “Climate change moves so slow that today’s fast thinkers can’t see it,” Young said. “You can’t see what’s happening because it’s not happening today. It’s not happening tomorrow. But it is. It’s happening so slowly over time that we’re missing it.” Young, no stranger to political activism, eventually widened the point beyond farmers. “Every farmer, everybody who knows a farmer, everybody who eats should vote,” Young said. Nelson has acknowledged that he and the other founders expected the first concert to change things much faster. “I thought people would realize how important it is to take care of the farmers,” Nelson said in an interview aired during the festival. “And obviously they didn’t.” Since that first concert in 1985, Farm Aid has raised more than $90 million to support family farmers and programs tied to family farm agriculture. This year marked the festival’s first stop in Virginia Beach, bringing Nelson, Young, John Mellencamp, Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds, Margo Price, Nathaniel Rateliff, Turnpike Troubadours, Lukas Nelson, Mike Campbell and the Dirty Knobs, Jesse Welles, Sierra Ferrell and I’m With Her, among others, to Veterans United Home Loans Amphitheater. The economics remain difficult, to put it lightly. Inflation-adjusted net farm income is expected to decline this year while production expenses remain high. Chapter 12 farm bankruptcy filings reached 315 nationally in 2025, a 46% in-

PHOTOS BY STAN GILLILAND

Left, Willie Nelson, left, and Neil Young share a moment during Farm Aid 2026 on Saturday in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Right, John Mellencamp performs. crease from the previous year. By early afternoon, the conversation had moved from the morning press conference to the smaller FarmYard Stage. There, a panel titled “Land, Family, Legacy” brought together farmers, growers and advocates confronting a basic question that has followed Farm Aid since its beginning: What happens to the land when farming it becomes harder to sustain? Rhonda Perry, a fifth-generation Missouri farmer and executive director of the Missouri Rural Crisis Center, described family farms squeezed by production costs, concentrated agricultural markets and increasing demand for rural property. Data centers have become part of that equation. Perry told the audience about a 90-year-old Missouri farmer who did not want to sell his property despite persistent interest from a data center developer. She described another farmer hoping to eventually leave his operation to his son while neighboring landowners considered selling. Perry also pointed to consolidation throughout agriculture, where farmers may buy seed and other inputs from a handful of large companies before facing similarly concentrated markets when they sell what they produce. “This is the time that we have to say no,” Perry said, arguing that financially stressed farms and rural communities can become particularly vulnerable to development. Virginia waterman Kevin Godsey has watched another set of problems develop from the water. The oyster grower described pollution, harmful algae and other changing conditions affecting an industry his family has been part of for generations. “When I first started, we never saw such a thing as a red tide,” Godsey said. “And now it’s just a normal occurrence every summer.” Godsey said aquaculture has made substantial advances, including sterile triploid oysters that grow quickly and maintain plump meat through more of the year. The economics remain challenging, however. He estimated that four large companies buy most of Virginia’s oysters, leaving smaller producers to carve out their own markets. Welles, the Arkansas singer-songwriter who would later perform on the main stage, brought the discussion back to

Margo Price, center, and her band perform Dolly Parton’s “9 to 5” during a tribute to Parton at Farm Aid 2026.

“Farmers are the soul of America.” Neil Young aging farmers facing tight margins and questions about who will be able to afford to take over their land. The problem, he said, is not always finding someone who wants the farm. It is whether the next generation can afford it. After the panel, North State Journal spoke with Renee Foster, a Navy veteran who operates Hampton Roads Urban Agriculture, a nonprofit farm tucked into the middle of Newport News. “We grow smack dab in the middle of a community,” Foster told North State Journal. Her volunteers grow collards, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, tomatoes and other produce for nearby residents, churches and community organizations. A week before Farm Aid, they harvested about 100 pounds of tomatoes. Space is limited enough that every planting matters. “Because it’s such a small space, we have to stick to a strict — in the ground, out of the ground, in the ground — just because of our space size,” Foster told North State Journal. The granddaughter of a Georgia farmer, Foster said the volunteer operation also became an outlet for veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering them a reason to get outside, work and remain connected. Her problems are different from those facing a Missouri farmer or Virginia oyster grower. Zoning and city regulations

are among the biggest, as is convincing people that an urban farm is more than a collection of individual garden plots. “We flipped that,” Foster said. “We are actually growing just like any other farm, just on a smaller scale.” It was Foster’s first Farm Aid. “I feel like being here brings recognition to what we do,” Foster said. “Most of the time people don’t really think about farming in the city itself.” Nearby, the Homegrown Village was filled with local vendors, farmers and agricultural advocacy organizations offering festivalgoers a look at food production, soil, water, farming practices and the groups working on those issues long after Farm Aid packs up and moves on. The music had already started while those conversations were taking place. By midafternoon, Mike Campbell of the Heartbreakers and his band, the Dirty Knobs, had helped carry the day into sets from Lukas Nelson and Turnpike Troubadours as the sun began its slow retreat. I’m With Her — Sara Watkins, Sarah Jarosz and Aoife O’Donovan — returned to the stage with Nathaniel Rateliff and later joined Matthews and longtime collaborator guitarist Tim Reynolds for “Papertown,” Matthews’ song connected to the documentary about the 2023 closing of the paper mill in the Haywood County town of Canton. Margo Price brought Matthews and Welles out during her set for Blaze Foley’s “Oval Room,” another of the day’s loose collaborations. Matthews and Reynolds later worked through “Ants March-

ing,” while Matthews, marking 25 years on Farm Aid’s board, spoke backstage about the accumulated knowledge that comes from working agricultural land rather than simply owning it. “Farmers are, in my opinion, in charge of the Earth,” Matthews said. “We just need to accept their authority, and we need to follow their lead.” The number of monster hits Mellencamp has put out over his career seems almost endless. An undeniable thread of rural, pastoral and, yes, smalltown America runs through his canon. The house came down as Mellencamp and his band tore through “Small Town,” “Check It Out,” “Paper in Fire,” “Jack & Diane” and “Rain on the Scarecrow” before landing on “Pink Houses,” with the familiar “Ain’t that America” refrain bringing an audience of roughly 20,000 together, politics be damned. Behind him, images of American farmers glowed across the stage. Nelson reached out to Mellencamp in 1985 after hearing he had recorded “Scarecrow,” the album that included “Rain on the Scarecrow,” his account of debt and the loss of a family farm. In a separate interview aired during the festival, Mellencamp recalled that he, Nelson and Young once believed a major concert might draw enough attention to the farm crisis to force meaningful change. “We were so naive,” he said. More than four decades later, his assessment was simple. “Matter of fact, it’s worse now than it was.” After a day spent hearing Perry talk about farmers under pressure to sell, Godsey describe changes in the water and Foster explain what can be grown on a small patch of Newport News, “Rain on the Scarecrow” did not sound much like a period piece. Young and the Chrome Hearts followed, opening quietly with “After the Gold Rush” and “Human Highway” before working through “Old Man” and “Harvest Moon.” They eventually plugged in for a blistering “Powderfinger” and closed with “Rockin’ in the Free World.” A light mist was falling by the time Willie Nelson & Family took the stage. Nelson opened with “Whiskey River,” but before long the set began drawing the rest of Farm Aid back into the picture. Lukas Nelson joined his father for “Just Breathe,” Micah Nelson took the lead on “Everything Is Bulls--t,” and Young returned to the stage for “Are There Any More Real Cowboys?” By the closing stretch, the stage had filled. Nathaniel Rateliff, Margo Price, Lily Meola, members of Turnpike Troubadours, Young and the Chrome Hearts and others gathered around Nelson for “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” “I’ll Fly Away” and, finally, “I Saw the Light.” Forty-one years after the first Farm Aid, Nelson was still at the center of it, surrounded by his sons, musicians who had spent the day playing for the cause and two generations of artists who have helped keep it going. Farm Aid has changed considerably since 1985. The lineup has grown younger, the definition of a farm has widened, and the pressures have shifted from the foreclosure crisis of the 1980s to consolidation, development, high costs, volatile markets and changing environmental conditions. The reason for the music has not.

Left, Arkansas singer-songwriter Jesse Welles takes part in a Farm Aid 2026 discussion on land, farming and rural communities Saturday. Center, farmers and advocates discuss land ownership, consolidation and other pressures facing American agriculture during a Farm Aid 2026 panel Saturday in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Right, festivalgoers make their way through Farm Aid’s Homegrown Village. The area featured farmers, food producers, agricultural organizations and educational exhibits.

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North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

‘Avengers: Endgame’ retakes box office crown; Pattinson drives sales for ‘Primetime’ Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” brought in another $3.7 million By Jake Coyle The Associated Press NEW YORK — Seven years after becoming the second-highest-grossing film ever, “Avengers: Endgame” returned to the No. 1 spot at the box office in a victory lap for Marvel and an appetizer for the upcoming blockbuster “Avengers: Doomsday.” The rerelease grossed $26 million over the weekend and another $60 million overseas, according to studio estimates Sunday. The film, which grossed $2.8 billion in 2019, was put back into theaters with several new end-credits scenes and an introductory thank-you to fans from Robert Downey Jr. and Chris Evans. Among rereleases, only the 1997 release of “Star Wars: A New Hope” ($35.9 million) and the 2011 repeat of “The Lion King” ($30.2 million) have opened higher than “Endgame” in domestic cinemas. Hollywood has increasingly turned to rereleases in recent years to take advantage of holes in the release schedule. But the Walt Disney Co. rerun, billed as “Endgame: Encore,” came out on top on an especially crowded weekend in theaters. Three well-reviewed new releases — A24’s “Primetime,” with Robert Pattinson; Paramount Pictures’ “Heart of the Beast,” with Brad Pitt; and Universal Pictures’ “Forgotten Island” — all landed in theaters. Second place, though, went to Zach Cregger’s reboot of “Resident Evil.” The Sony Pictures release followed up its above-expectations debut with $23.3 million in its second weekend. In two weeks, the video game adaptation has grossed $103.5 million in U.S. and Canadian theaters. In a close race for third place, “Heart of the Beast” came out just ahead of “Primetime” with an estimated $20 million from 3,435 theaters. Directed by David Ayer, the film stars Pitt as a retired veteran who must trek through the Alaskan wilderness with his combat dog after a plane crash. It added $30.1 million in international theaters.

MARVEL STUDIOS / DISNEY VIA AP

Marvel Studios’ “Avengers: Endgame” rerelease earned $26 million domestically and another $60 million internationally.

SONY PICTURES VIA AP

Austin Abrams, left, and director Zach Cregger appear on the set of “Resident Evil.” Pattinson drives “Primetime” sales But the opening for “Primetime” was more impressive. “Heart of the Beast” cost $82 million to produce, making its path to profitability challenging. “Primetime,” starring Pattinson as “To Catch a Predator” host Chris Hansen, was made

with a modest budget of $15 million, and it opened in 500 fewer theaters. Yet “Primetime,” buoyed by strong reviews and buzz out of the Venice Film Festival, debuted with $19.2 million. For Pattinson, who also starred this year in A24’s “The Drama” and Universal’s “The Odyssey,” the strong performance showed

the actor’s drawing power with Gen Z audiences. Some 69% of ticket buyers for “Primetime” were under the age of 30. Gen Z has emerged as the most regular moviegoing demographic, fueling hits this year such as “Obsession” and “Backrooms.” “Primetime” is directed by 30-year-old documentarian Lance Oppenheim, who co-directed the much-anticipated Elizabeth Holmes documentary, “You Can See Everything,” due out next month. “Forgotten Island,” from DreamWorks Animation, had a hard time standing out. The film, which cost $80 million to make, opened in fifth place with a disappointing $12.8 million domestically. In 31 overseas markets, “Forgotten Island” also didn’t make much of a dent, grossing $7.8 million internationally. Universal will hope family audiences catch up to the movie that landed the weekend’s best CinemaScore (an “A”) and the best reviews (94% fresh on Rotten Tomatoes). “Forgotten Island,” directed by Joel Crawford and Januel Mercado, is about two friends who get stranded in a mystical world. The confluence of releases added up to a historically good September weekend in theaters.

Swift becomes most-awarded artist in MTV VMAs history The artist dedicated the top prize to Dolly Parton By Maria Sherman The Associated Press NEW YORK — Taylor Swift broke records at the 2026 MTV Video Music Awards, as she is known to do. The pop powerhouse received the inaugural Artist Director Honors on Sunday night, becoming the most-awarded artist in VMA history. Previously, she was tied with Beyoncé for the title, with 30 VMAs each. The new award is meant to recognize artists “whose work behind the camera has expanded the possibilities of music video and advanced the art of visual storytelling.” “I got to start making music videos and being a part of music videos 20 years ago,” Swift said in her speech, adding that she’s been involved in making roughly 60 music videos, 18 of which she wrote and directed. “You, the fans, make it so much fun,” she said. She also took home the top prize of the night — video of the year — for “The Fate of Ophelia” from her album “The Life of a Showgirl.” Swift dedicated that award to

“It’s mother,” were the first words uttered by Madonna as she opened the VMAs with her 2026 single “Bring Your Love” alongside collaborator Sabrina Carpenter. Later in the night, the pair won the award for best collaboration for the song. “It’s been a while since I did one of these things,” Madonna joked. “So I’ve prepared nothing.” When it came time for her return to the stage to accept the

This list factors in the estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Rentrak. 1. “Avengers: Endgame: Encore,” $26 million 2. “Resident Evil,” $23.3 million 3. “Heart of the Beast,” $20 million 4. “Primetime,” $19.2 million 5. “Forgotten Island,” $12.8 million 6. “Practical Magic 2,” $5.7 million 7. “Spider-Man: Brand New Day,” $4.1 million 8. “The Odyssey,” $3.7 million 9. “Coyote vs. Acme,” $1.9 million 10. “Daniel and the Fiery Furnace,” $1.5 million

Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift debuts “Patient Zero” music video

Madonna opened starry award show — and won big

Top 10 movies by domestic box office

“You, the fans, make it so much fun.”

the “ultimate showgirl,” the late Dolly Parton. “I think we were all very lucky to share this planet with Dolly Parton for a time,” Swift said.

Swift also debuted the music video for her new song, “Patient Zero,” during the award show. She directed the visual, which stars Colin Farrell and Dakota Johnson. Johnson and Swift portray mirror images of each other. “Patient Zero” is also her first single since marrying Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce at Madison Square Garden in July. The two-hour show was broadcast live on CBS from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

According to Rentrak, ticket sales were up 58.5% from the same weekend last year. The domestic box office has amassed $7.8 billion thus far, putting it 19% ahead of last year.

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Taylor Swift accepts the MTV VMA Artist Director Honors award during the MTV Video Music Awards on Sunday at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles. award for artist of the year, Madonna began with, “First of all, I would like to thank my fingers because I can always count on them.” Returning a third time to accept for best dance, she said simply, “I came alive on the dance floor. ... We’re all equal on the dance floor.” If her aim was to bring the dance floor to the award show stage, Madonna did exactly that in her opening number — and then some when Charli xcx emerged from a club bathroom to perform their reworked version of “Danceteria.” Around them? A trove of dancers and various famous friends, including actor Debi Mazar, Sombr and Julia Garner. The show, which was delayed 20 minutes by a tight NFL game, wasted no time getting heart rates up. Snoop Dogg, a 13-time VMA

nominee and three-time winner, emerged as host shortly thereafter. “Now that is an icon,” Snoop Dogg said of Madonna before pivoting to a joke: “She ain’t a virgin no more.” Teyana Taylor then presented the first award for best pop to Lisa for “Dream,” featuring Kentaro Sakaguchi. “Thank you, MTV, for this amazing award,” Lisa said while holding back tears. “All those late-night dreams brought me here today.” Performances include tribute to Parton There was always going to be a big musical tribute to Parton. Kacey Musgraves paid homage to the late, great country music icon with a cover of Parton’s “I Will Always Love You.”

Parton, whose soaring vibrato vocals, poignant songwriting and sparkling costumes defined her rise from a log cabin in the Tennessee mountains to the height of stardom and acclaim, died in Nashville of cancer in August. She was 80. Bruno Mars slowed things down with “Dance With Me.” Shaboozey launched into his saloon single “Cowgirl” before being joined by Gunna for some hybrid country-rap with their crossover track, “High Noon.” Orville Peck introduced a tribute to George Michael, who died 10 years ago on Christmas Day. He was 53. Nirvana took home 2026 Video Vanguard Award If this year’s VMAs felt too pop-heavy for some viewers, that changed when the coveted Video Vanguard Award was awarded to Nirvana. The award was presented to surviving members Krist Novoselic, Dave Grohl and Pat Smear. Frontman Kurt Cobain died in 1994. “Kurt was one of one,” Novoselic said in their acceptance speech, adding that the band never imagined its sound and aesthetic would resonate with so many people. He said the music continues to endure because people are still hungry for “something real, something uncompromising” and a message that “it’s just OK to come as you are.”

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North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

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 County, North Carolina, or the customary

25-124211 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CABARRUS COUNTY 26SP000033-120 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY RAY C. NICHOLSON AND PAMELA NICHOLSON DATED SEPTEMBER 11, 2006 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 7024 AT PAGE 24 AND MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED JULY 28, 2015 IN BOOK 11515, PAGE 252 IN THE CABARRUS COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 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 door in Concord, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00

CUMBERLAND AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000501-250 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Sarah Garrett and Vanu Garrett (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Sarah Garrett and Vanu Garrett) to Alex G. Wish & Jerry Berry, Trustee(s), dated August 28, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 11810, at Page 528 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

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 in the County of

26SP000383-250 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 Julian Gavin Chavez to Thorp and Clarke, PA, Trustee(s), which was dated April 7, 2021 and recorded on April 8, 2021 in Book 11084 at Page 293, 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 14, 2026 at 01:30 PM, and

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

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

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

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

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 Cabarrus County courthouse at 11:00AM on October 13, 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 Ray C. Nicholson and Pamela Nicholson, dated September 11, 2006 to secure the original principal amount of $269,600.00, and recorded in Book 7024 at Page 24 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: 2112 Elendil Lane, Charlotte, NC 28269 Tax Parcel ID: 45890959250000

Present Record Owners: Pamela Nicholson and Ray C. Nicholson The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Pamela Nicholson and Ray C. Nicholson. 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 24, 2026. ________________ Sarah E. Banks N.C. State Bar No. #44023 William P. Harris N.C. State Bar No. #48633 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 8520 Cliff Cameron Dr., Suite 330 Charlotte, NC 28269 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com Posted: By:

PM on 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

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.

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 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.

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 Julian Gavin Chavez.

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

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.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as

County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 12, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Parcel # 0439-08-0053 BEING all of Lot Number 18, Block A, “Plesant Acres Subdivision” as recorded in Book of Plats 27, Page 39, Cumberland County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 650 Pleasant Loop, Fayetteville, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be purchased by a third party, 31 CFR 1031.320 requires certain qualifying residential

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,

will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: Being all of Lot 336 in a subdivision known as Ponderosa, Section Eleven, plat of which is duly recorded in Book of Plats 33, page 59, Cumberland County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 538 Tablerock Dr, Fayetteville, NC 28303. 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

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

25-124211

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: 31764 - 165976

BY:

/S/ AnnMarie Taylor___ AnnMarie Taylor

Attorney Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. Hutchens Law Firm

for

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.: 26-02542-FC01

A14

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

PEN & PAPER PURSUITS

sudoku

SOLUTIONS FROM LAST WEEK

Duke basketball preview, B4

SUE OGROCKI / AP PHOTO

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Jalen Coker (18) misses a catch attempt in the loss to the Cleveland Browns.

the Thursday

Survivor pool: Carolina Panthers’ injury totals continue to climb

NBA

Bryce Young and the entire starting secondary are the latest casualties

SIDELINE REPORT

Curry, Warriors agree to 2-year contract extension worth $116M San Francisco Stephen Curry agreed to a two-year contract extension worth $116 million that would take him through the 2028-29 season. Curry was eligible to command up to $136 million, so he is giving his team a discount as he backs up his longstanding commitment to finish his career with the Warriors. He is a two-time MVP and the NBA career leader in 3-pointers.

MLS

Gómez, Cohen help Fire finish season sweep of Charlotte with 1-0 victory Charlotte Johan Gómez scored his first career goal to back a clean sheet from Josh Cohen, and the Chicago Fire finished a season sweep of Charlotte FC with a 1-0 victory. Chicago pulled within a point of fourth-place Charlotte (12-8-7) in the Eastern Conference. The top four earn homefield advantage in the first round of the playoffs. Charlotte had gone 5-0-3 since losing 2-1 to the Fire in August.

MLB

Pope Leo XIV declines to credit himself for White Sox playoff return Paris Pope Leo XIV is a lifelong Chicago White Sox fan but also knows better than to wade too deep into sporting rivalries. The pontiff trod very carefully when asked whether he had a hand in the team’s improbable return to the playoffs. He smiled and said, “No comment.” But he also left no doubt that he was thrilled, by adding: “Great things happen in Chicago.”

By Shawn Krest North State Journal THINGS HAVE gone from bad to worse to “Oh come on” for the Carolina Panthers. The old adage says the injury rate in the NFL is 100%. They just don’t usually all come at the same time like this. The Panthers’ body count began rising before anyone had broken a sweat in training camp. Edge rusher Nic Scourton, who tied for the team lead in sacks last season, tore his ACL on one of the first snaps of the very first practice. Before the first week was in the books, receiver Chris Brazzell, a third-round draft pick this year, had also been lost for the season. The team was already play-

ing without starting tackles Ikem Ekwonu and Taylor Moton, who are both yet to take a snap in practice or game action this season. As the team gets into the regular season, the rash of injuries is accelerating. Linebacker Devin Lloyd was the defensive star of the Week 2 win over Atlanta, and receiver Jalen Coker was the offensive hero. Both were on the injury list for Week 3. Lloyd missed the game with a calf problem. Coker played but fellow receiver Xavier Legette sat out with a knee injury, and safety Nick Scott was out with a rib injury. The team also added two more contributors to the injured reserve before leaving for Cleveland—running back Jonathon Brooks and linebacker Claudin Cherelus. Then came the game against the Browns, which saw the Panthers lose a game that should

KIRK IRWIN / AP PHOTO

Several Carolina Panthers defenders pursue Cleveland Browns quarterback Deshaun Watson (4) as he throws the ball during last Sunday’s game. have been in the win column. The offense, which has looked dominant in the early going, sputtered, but the Panthers still had a fourth quarter lead

Hurricanes begin title defense Carolina returns from its Stanley Cup season with its roster nearly fully intact By Cory Lavalette North State Journal RALEIGH — The Hurricanes’ defense of their Stanley Cup title began Tuesday, and no Cup champion in the salary-cap era has brought back as much of its roster. “You’re always detailed, but you don’t have to go over the ins and outs of things,” Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour said Monday of having a lineup full of players familiar with his coaching. “Or when you’re just kind of (giving) reminders, guys (say), ‘Oh yeah, we’ve done this over and over.’ So there is some of that, and I think just having that comfort of guys that you know you can trust is good.” The players also now know for certain that the Hurricanes’ style of play — criticized by pundits for years as too taxing in the regular season to hold up

STAN GILLILAND / NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour looks on from the bench during Game 2 of the Stanley Cup final June 4 in Raleigh. Carolina has a nearly identical roster to the one that claimed the franchise’s second championship last season. in the playoffs — can work for more than 100 games. But for all the knowns Carolina has as it embarks on the 2026-27 season, there are still some uncertainties. The biggest is the fate of defenseman Alexander Nikishin. Nikishin is not with the team as he and the Hurricanes

remain at a stalemate over a new deal. Reports say the Russian is aiming for both a bigger role and to be the highest-paid Hurricanes defenseman (K’Andre Miller is currently first at an average salary of $7.5 million annually). Nikishin, who has little leverage as a restricted free agent

and appeared to ice the game with a late interception. A roughing the passer penalty on See PANTHERS, page B3

without arbitration rights, recently changed agents from Quartexx’s Benjamin Kreyzerman to Paul Theofanous of TMI LLC. There is a glimmer of sunlight in that swap since Theofanous has more clients on the Hurricanes than any other team — including Pyotr Kochetkov, who just signed a two-year extension with Carolina last week. Despite not being in a position to strong-arm the team to bend to his contract demands or force a trade, Nikishin does have an understandable position: He was one of the top rookie defensemen in the NHL last season, and the market for blue liners exploded this offseason thanks to big deals for Vancouver’s Zeev Buium and Anaheim’s Pavel Mintyukov. Also playing a role is Nikishin’s age: He will be 25 on Friday, and his window to cash in on his career is much smaller than those of most players entering their second full NHL season. Hurricanes GM Eric Tulsky took the high road Monday when meeting with the media. “We’re trying to find a resolution,” Tulsky said. “He has largely kept things out of the See HURRICANES, page B4

B2 THURSDAY

10.1.26

TRENDING

Phil Spence: The former member of NC State’s 1974 national champions as a sophomore died at age 72. Spence played at Broughton High School and averaged 6.0 points for the Wolfpack’s title team. He went on to coach at Cary and East Wake High School and then NC Central, where he was the 2003 CIAA coach of the year. Kon Knueppel: The Hornets guard and former Duke standout will miss the entire preseason and possibly Charlotte’s regular-season opener with a left hamstring injury. Knueppel will be reevaluated during the first week of the season. Knueppel led the NBA in 3-pointers last season and shattered the record for 3s by a rookie. He averaged 18.5 points, 5.3 rebounds and 3.4 assists in 81 games. Darrell Waltrip: The Hall of Fame NASCAR driver and longtime broadcaster has stepped away from public life due to a progressive brain disease. Waltrip, 79, has been diagnosed with frontotemporal degeneration, possibly complicated by chronic traumatic encephalopathy, likely from injuries during his racing career. He won 84 races and three Cup championships before moving to broadcasting. He was inducted into the NASCAR Hall of Fame in 2012.

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

Beyond the box score POTENT QUOTABLES

NASCAR

Kyle Larson passed Chase Briscoe with seven laps left, securing the Cup Series victory at Kansas Speedway. Larson led a track record 235 laps. After losing the lead to Briscoe with 30 laps remaining, Larson regained it. Larson also won the first two stages, giving him a 26-point lead over Denny Hamlin in the Chase. Larson has finished in the top five of each of the first four playoff races.

CHARLIE RIEDEL / AP PHOTO

“Coaches are way more important than players. They just do more.” Wisconsin Green Bay coach Doug Gottlieb on coaching salaries.

COLIN E. BRALEY / AP PHOTO

NFL

CHRIS SEWARD / AP PHOTO

“By the way, we won that game.” NC State head coach Dave Doeren ending his press conference after postgame questions focused on how close the win over App State was. PRIME NUMBER

NCAA FOOTBALL

MIKE STEWART / AP PHOTO

Panthers’ backup running back Jonathon Brooks, right, will undergo groin surgery and miss six to eight weeks. The Panthers placed Brooks on injured reserve. The injury happened in the fourth quarter of Carolina’s win over the Falcons. Brooks has struggled with knee injuries in the past, limiting his playing time.

GERRY BROOME / AP PHOTO

Chris Spatola, a college basketball analyst and son-in-law of retired Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski, died at 47. No cause of death was announced. Spatola, right, played at Army and served in Iraq. He worked on Krzyzewski’s Duke staff from 2007-12. He later shifted into broadcasting.

NBA

262 Football lightning-related deaths in the United States between 1970 and 2023. The large number of weather delays at football games in the first few weeks of the season has brought attention to the NCAA’s safety-related delay policy.

ALBERT PENA / AP PHOTO

The Chicago Bulls acquired guard Buddy Hield and cash from the Charlotte Hornets for guard Rob Dillingham, pictured. The 33-year-old Hield is on the move for the second time in five days. Hield played for Golden State and Atlanta last season, averaging 7.6 points in 51 games. Dillingham, a Hickory native, was the No. 8 pick in the 2024 draft.

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

App State’s rally falls short, NC State survives The Wolfpack blew a big lead but found a way to win late in the fourth quarter By Ryan Henkel North State Journal RALEIGH — Appalachian State put a scare into NC State Saturday night before ultimately coming up short, falling 41-31 in Raleigh. Despite the different levels of expected talent between the two programs, it always seems to matter little when it comes to these intrastate rivalries, and the game was a prime example of that. “We knew App was going to be a tough game,” said NC State coach Dave Doeren. “And I knew they wouldn’t quit.” In what has become typical for NC State, the Wolfpack made the game a lot closer than first thought, blowing 21-0 and 28-7 leads, but a large part of that was due to the Mountaineers’ never-say-die attitude. “I think our guys believe, and I think they have a lot of fight in them,” said App State coach Dowell Loggains. “They believe in their coaches, and their coaches believe in them. I’m super proud of the team. They got

NELL REDMOND / AP PHOTO

Appalachian State coach Dowell Loggains, pictured during a game last season, put a scare into NC State last week in Raleigh. put in a tough spot, and they battled and fought.” In the first quarter, NC State put up two quick scores and outgained Appalachian State overall 155-30, but from the second quarter onward, the Mountaineers actually had the better offensive output, outgaining the Wolfpack 349-304 and outscoring them 31-27. That was with the Mountaineers having two potential fumbles reversed, one for an early whistle after forward progress

was halted by an NC State runner and another from a fumbled ball touching an out-of-bounds Wolfpack player. “It’s a judgment call,” Loggains said. “In real time, it felt like it was a fumble, but the officials saw it differently.” However, it was that slow start that proved to be the difference. “You want to go on the road and play an ACC opponent, and you want to beat them. You can’t make errors and there

can’t be self-inflicted things,” Loggains said. “Our kids fought hard, and I’m really proud of their resiliency, but you’re not going to beat a team like that with self-inflicted things.” A big issue for the Mountaineers was their run game was virtually nonexistent, managing 62 yards of total offense on the ground. However, senior quarterback Malachi Singleton proved to be a major difference maker, throwing for 317 yards and two touchdowns in the loss. One could argue he outplayed Wolfpack starter CJ Bailey, who finished the day with 253 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. “They had a great game plan to start out, and we knew it was gonna be a little rowdy and they were gonna come out first, so I feel like the whole team just had to settle down and play the game,” Singleton said. On the other side, NC State was able to secure the win thanks in large part to their running game. The Wolfpack had 206 total rushing yards and three touchdowns, with 148 of the yards and two of the touchdowns — including the eventual game-winning score late in the fourth quarter — coming from junior back Jayden “Duke” Scott. “Duke obviously stood out, which means the O-line and the tight ends and the receivers did a great job blocking for him,” Doeren said. “But he’s a workhorse and has a second gear. He’s also low to the ground, pa-

“We knew App was going to be a tough game. I knew they wouldn’t quit.” Dave Doeren, NC State coach tient and explosive. It’s a great luxury to have a player like him.” And in the end, the Wolfpack was able to find the finish they lacked last week in Nashville against Vanderbilt, ending the game with two straight scores after the Mountaineers had tied it 31-31 in the fourth quarter. “I felt good about those (final) drives,” Doeren said. “It’s easy for people on the outside to panic, but I have a lot of trust in these players and I knew that they would come through.” NC State moves to 7-0 in the all-time series between the two programs. However, it’s important to note that every game so far has been in Raleigh, and the two teams are slated to meet next year in Boone. The Wolfpack are back to even on the year (2-2) and will next host Louisville at Carter-Finley Stadium on Saturday afternoon. For the Mountaineers, they’re heading into their bye week 3-1 on the season and will next face Old Dominion at home Oct. 10. “We’re gonna go coach this tape really hard and take it for what it is and try to get some stuff cleaned up,” Loggains said.

Wake Forest holds off No. 16 Louisville for road upset A late blocked field goal sealed the win over the Cardinals

By Jesse Deal North State Journal WINSTON-SALEM — Wake Forest’s football team is entering October with a ranked road win behind it, while coach Jake Dickert sees plenty for the Demon Deacons to correct. Saturday’s 30-27 victory at No. 16 Louisville gave Wake Forest (3-1, 1-1 ACC) its first league win of the season, one week after a 33-20 loss to Miami. “It was so far from perfect. Matter of fact, it was ugly, but it was so beautiful because our guys found a way to win the game,” Dickert said. “I’m really proud of our whole program. We have a lot to clean up, but we’re going to celebrate this one.” With their three-point loss to the Deacons, the Cardinals (2-2, 1-1 ACC) dropped out of the AP Top 25 on Sunday. Wake, which was an 11.5-point underdog going into the game, overcame 10 penalties, a fourth-quarter fumble and Louisville’s comeback from 10 points down. The Cardinals had two late chances to tie it. Carson Hilbert, Louisville’s kicker, missed a field goal attempt from 42 yards with 2:29 remaining. After the Deacs went three-and-out, Louisville crossed midfield again, but a holding penalty left the team facing a 57-yard try. Louisville then turned to Nick Keller, who had made two field goals from that distance in 2025, before Wake defensive lineman Gabe Kirschke blocked his kick in the closing seconds. Dickert credited his defense for its response after Louisville

PANTHERS from page B1 Bobby Okereke kept the eventual game-winning drive alive for Cleveland, however. It’s easy to say that it was a game the Panthers will look back on late in the season and have regrets. However, the sheer number of players that went down for Carolina in that game may render the point moot, as a skeleton crew of remaining healthy players could be just playing out the schedule by that point. Coker, nursing a bad ankle, injured his quad and didn’t return. Guard Damien Lewis hurt his elbow and went to the side-

TIMOTHY D. EASLEY / AP PHOTO

Wake Forest quarterback Gio Lopez scans the field as Louisville defensive lineman Tommy Ziesmer closes on him during their game Saturday in Louisville, Kentucky. scored 21 points before halftime. The Cardinals managed two field goals after the break, and their rushing attack, which entered averaging 229 yards per game, finished with just 75 yards. “That was an unbelievable performance by our players and our coaches,” Dickert said. “The adjustments that we made at halftime, especially on the defensive side of the ball, were great. That is a talented quarterback and a talented team, so for our guys to come out in a really tough environment and get the win is incredible.” Last year, Wake Forest defeated No. 12 Virginia on the road. With Saturday’s victory,

the program has beaten ranked opponents away from home in consecutive seasons for the first time since 1975 and 1976. Wake receiver Carlos Hernandez supplied the game’s biggest plays over the weekend. He caught nine passes for 194 yards, tied for the fifth-highest

line. Most significantly, quarterback Bryce Young, tied for the league lead in touchdown passes, suffered some type of lower body injury. “He was sore a bit. I think he took a cleat,” coach Dave Canales said the day after the game, declining to say who stepped on his quarterback or where the contact was made. Regardless of the location, it clearly bothered Young, who didn’t have a rushing attempt in the game, the first time in his pro or college career that he’s started and not had at least one carry. He had three relief appearances — one in the NFL during

the brief time he lost the starting job to Andy Dalton and two as an Alabama freshman, all at the end of blowouts — where he didn’t run the ball. It also appeared to affect his throwing. “Yeah, there were a couple of balls that he would normally hit,” Canales said. “So I’m wondering if he was kind of working through something, trying to find his base, to get those balls off.” “It was nothing, just football,” Young said. “We’re all out there, dealing with stuff. Tough one, just didn’t get it done, but none of that stuff had

“That was an unbelievable performance by our players and our coaches.” Jake Dickert, Wake Forest coach

single-game total in team history, and scored on a 77-yard pass from quarterback Gio Lopez that gave the Deacons a 17-14 lead in the second quarter. Earlier, Lopez found Hernandez for 48 yards on third-and-15, setting up running back Ty Clark III’s first touchdown run. Hernandez soon gained another 31 yards on a pass from Lopez, and Clark scored again from 6 yards out. Wake Forest led 24-14 before a 61-yard Louisville touchdown pass cut the margin to three at halftime. Hernandez said his production reflects the team’s trust in him after being benched by the

“We’re all out there, dealing with stuff.” Bryce Young anything to do with (the loss).” On the other side of the ball, the picture was just as bleak. Already down a pass rusher, two linebackers and a safety, neither of the Panthers’ starting cornerbacks finished the game. Mike Jackson left before halftime with a groin injury, but the potentially disastrous development was two-time Pro Bowler Jay-

same coaching staff last season. His 516 receiving yards through four games currently ranks second in the ACC. “I’ve grown a lot, especially with the confidence, and then just kind of working on the whole craft,” said Hernandez, who was three yards shy of his career high, set against Delaware last season. “It feels great knowing that I’ve got a coaching staff that believes in me no matter what ups and downs I’ve had.” Lopez finished 12 of 19 for 225 yards and a touchdown. Wake Forest also found room to run after Miami held the Deacs to 22 yards on 16 carries. They totaled 177 yards on 42 attempts against Louisville, as Clark gained 91 yards on 21 carries with two touchdowns, and freshman Deuce Lawrence added 64 yards on 10 attempts. “The way the offensive line played as well today, you can’t ask for much more as a running back when they open up holes like that,” Clark said. The result nearly slipped away at the start of the fourth quarter. Hernandez fumbled at the Wake Forest 29 with the score tied at 27. However, Louisville’s subsequent drive stalled out and the Deacons then drove 48 yards for the winning score. A Louisville offsides penalty gave Wake a first down on fourth-and-4, and Connor Calvert kicked a 32-yard field goal with 6:20 left, his third of the afternoon. Riding the high of its win over a ranked opponent, Dickert’s team will return home to Winston-Salem to face Stanford at noon Saturday. The Cardinal are coming off a 34-27 win at home over Georgia Tech where quarterback Davis Warren passed for a career-high 396 yards and three touchdowns.

cee Horn, who suffered what Canales called a “significant quad injury.” There were rumors that Horn tore the muscle, which would come close to ending his season, but Canales refused to comment when asked. Horn posted a message to fans online, apologizing and saying, “Injuries have held me back from reaching my full potential for too long.” He also promised he’d be back, saying, “I’m not done,” all of which seems to indicate that it won’t be a quick return to action. “You can’t replace Jaycee Horn,” Canales said.

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

WHAT IT WAS, WAS FOOTBALL Only three unbeatens remain in North Carolina By Shawn Krest North State Journal NORTH CAROLINA college teams snapped a two-week winning streak by going 13-14 last week and remaining just under .500 on the season. Two teams recorded their first wins on the year — NC A&T and Methodist — leaving three winless teams, who make up the bottom of our rankings: Elizabeth City State, Charlotte and Winston-Salem State. App State fell from the ranks of the unbeaten, leaving three perfect records in the state: Duke, Mars Hill and Brevard. THE RANKINGS North Carolina’s record: 13-14 last week (68-70 overall) 1.

Duke, 4-0 (unchanged): won 62-7 over William & Mary (idle)

Mars Hill, 4-0 (unchanged): won 10-6 at Carson-Newman (Tusculum)

Brevard, 3-0 (up 13): won at Guilford 59-0 (Belhaven)

Elon, 4-1 (unchanged): won 43-17 over Maine (at New Hampshire)

Wake Forest, 3-1 (up 7): won 30-27 at Louisville (Stanford)

App State, 3-1 (down 3): lost 41-31 at NC State (Old Dominion)

Campbell, 4-1 (unchanged): won 44-20 at Hampton (at NC Central)

UNC, 2-1 (down 3): Idle (Notre Dame)

NC Wesleyan, 2-1 (down 3): Idle (Lagrange)

10. UNC Pembroke, 4-1 (down 2): won 24-6 over Monroe (North Greenville) 11. Johnson C. Smith, 3-1 (down 1): idle (at Bluefield State) 12. Shaw, 3-1 (up 2): won 28-27 over Livingstone (at Bowie State) 13. Catawba, 2-3 (down 4): lost 27-22 at Tusculum (Wingate) 14. Lenoir-Rhyne, 2-3 (down 3): lost 42-22 at Anderson (Carson-Newman) 15. Fayetteville State, 2-3 (down 2): lost 14-0 at home to Virginia Union (at Livingstone) 16. Western Carolina, 2-3 (down 1): lost 58-31 at ETSU (Tennessee Tech) 17. East Carolina, 2-2 (up 3): won 42-9 over NC Central (idle) 18. Chowan, 2-2 (up 1): Idle (at West Alabama) 19. Livingstone, 2-3 (up 2): lost 28-27 at Shaw (Fayetteville State) 20. Greensboro, 1-2 (up 2): Idle (Southern Virginia) 21. Wingate, 2-3 (up 2): won 41-27 over UVA Wise (at Catawba) 22. NC Central, 2-3 (down 5): lost 42-9 at East Carolina (Campbell) 23. Guilford, 1-2 (down 5): lost at home to Brevard 59-0 (Roanoke) 24. NC State, 2-2 (unchanged): won 41-31 over App State (Louisville) 25. Gardner-Webb, 1-4 (up 1): lost 36-35 at Marshall (at Charleston Southern) 26. Methodist, 1-2 (up 3): won 27-22 at Newport News Apprentice (Huntingdon) 27. NC A&T, 1-4 (up 4):

won 22-18 over Rhode Island (at Bryant) 28. Davidson, 2-3 (down 1): lost at home 51-32 to Drake (at San Diego) 29. Barton, 1-4 (down 1): lost at home to West Alabama 17-7 (Ferrum) 30. Elizabeth City State, 0-4 (down 5): lost at home to Bowie State 34-23 (at Virginia Union) 31. Charlotte, 0-4 (down 1): lost at home to Louisiana 34-7 (Memphis) 32. Winston-Salem State, 0-5 (unchanged): lost 49-19 at Virginia State (idle)

HOMECOMING RECORD 1-0 Duke got the homecoming season started last week with a win over Stanford. Six more teams hold homecoming this week: NC Wesleyan hosts Lagrange, Greensboro hosts Southern Virginia. Mars Hill hosts Tusculum. Guilford hosts Roanoke. Livingstone hosts Fayetteville State. Charlotte hosts Memphis. STATE TITLE STANDINGS NC State escaped App State. Shaw won a barn burner over Livingstone. Brevard hammered Guilford. ECU hammered NC Central. There are only three in-state matchups this week: Campbell is at NC Central. Catawba hosts Wingate. Fayetteville State heads to Livingstone. • 3-0 Mars Hill • 2-0 JC Smith, Campbell • 1-0 Elon, Greensboro, Gardner-Webb, Chowan, NC State, Brevard • 2-1 Fayetteville State, App State, Shaw • 2-2 NC Central • 1-1 UNC Pembroke, Livingstone, ECU • 0-0 UNC, Duke, Wake Forest, NC Wesleyan • 1-2 Guilford

Depth charge: Duke loads up on veterans, rookies The Blue Devils have freshmen and returnees at all five spots on the floor By Shawn Krest North State Journal EVERYONE HAS a different idea of how to make a champion. The best basketball teams are grown. In an era of college sports where players drift from school to school, nothing beats experience playing together. If a team can bring back four of its top six rotation players, guys who combined for 99 starts with the team last season, that’s a recipe for success. Or perhaps the best teams are assembled through the transfer portal. Maybe the way to a title is by bringing in the No. 11 transfer class in the country — three veterans who all scored in double figures last season, two of them the year before that as well. Bring in a group with a combined 147 career starts, and you’re on the right track. Then again, maybe the best teams are recruited. Bring in the No. 2 class in the nation — a group that includes three five-stars and two fours, a pair of McDonald’s All-Americans, a top-four recruit in this year’s class and, before he reclassified to arrive early, one in next year’s class as well. Duke coach Jon Scheyer doesn’t see the need to decide which approach is best. So he did all three to assemble the 2026-27 Blue Devils. “Well, roster construction, I think that’s really important,” Scheyer said. “Just look where we’ve had some unique situations — we’re going to an Elite Eight game down a couple guys, right? And that’s happened to us a few times. So I think from my mindset, you want to protect yourself from injury. Like how can you, no matter what, if you lose a couple key guys, (recover). I do think that’s in the back of my mind. And then also,

“Depth means nothing if you don’t sacrifice. Depth doesn’t mean anything if you’re not connected.” Jon Scheyer, Duke coach you want the balance of experience and talent. That’s you try to achieve that balance the best you can. I think we’ve done that with this group.” This year’s Duke team may not have a frontrunner for consensus national player of the year, an award that Blue Devils Cooper Flagg and Cam Boozer won the last two seasons, but it might be the deepest Duke team we’ve seen in a generation. Duke has a veteran and a freshman at each of the five positions on the floor, with a few extra bodies to spare. In the backcourt, the Blue Devils return Cayden Boozer and Caleb Foster. Boozer will be playing without his twin brother for the first time ever. “I think we needed space,” he joked when asked about playing without Cameron, who was selected third overall in the NBA Draft, ending a stretch as teammates that included high school, AAU and a year at Duke. Meanwhile, Foster will become a four-year player at Duke, just the third in the program in the last seven years. To that returning duo, Scheyer added John Blackwell, who played three years at Wisconsin, averaging 19.1 points last year and earning All-Big Ten honors, as well as Deron Rippey, a five-star freshman who was the top point guard in the class of 2026. At wing, Duke returns Dame Sarr, the runner-up in ACC Defensive Player of the Year voting last season. He’s joined by Sebastian Wilkins, a four-star recruit last year who redshirted with the Blue Devils last season,

as well as Bryson Howard, son of former Wake Forest standout Josh Howard, a four-star recruit in this year’s class. In the post, Patrick Ngongba returns after an All-ACC honorable mention season as a sophomore. He’s joined by Drew Scharnowski, a veteran from Belmont who Scheyer described as “the ultimate connector” and able to play all five positions on defense, shades of Malik Brown, who won the ACC’s top defender award ahead of Sarr as a senior last season. Also in the frontcourt are the two gems of Duke’s recruiting class — Cameron Williams and Joaquim Boumtje Boumtje. Williams was the No. 4 recruit in the entire class, while JBB reclassified to enter Duke early. Duke coaches tried to lower expectations on the 17-year-old big man, with assistant Emanuel Dildy saying Boumtje Boumtje “looked amazing some days and struggled in others.” The guys practicing against him weren’t having it. “I don’t know if he’s struggling,” Sarr said. “Every time I see him out there, he looks pretty good to me. He’s unbelievable.” “Yeah, I’m with Dame on this one,” said Ngongba. “He looks like he belongs out there. The physicality of the game doesn’t look like it’s impacting him at all.” It appears that Scheyer has constructed an injury-proof roster, loaded with talent and experience. “I think it’s easy to look at our depth,” Scheyer said. “Depth means nothing if you don’t sacrifice. Depth doesn’t mean anything if you’re not connected. And so, before getting into any basketball, we focus with our group about how to connect and how to sacrifice, and that’s probably the hardest thing to do in sport in today’s day and age.” If it works out, it’s quite possible that the best method for building a team is … all of them.

• 0-1 Wingate, Davidson, Western Carolina, Elizabeth City State, Catawba, Methodist, Lenoir-Rhyne, Charlotte • 0-2 NC A&T, Barton • 0-3 Winston-Salem State

ALL-STATE PERFORMANCES FOR WEEK 3 Quarterback: Emory Williams, ECU, 25-36 for 341 yards, 3 TDs Running backs: Duke Scott, NC State, 25 rushes for 148 yards, 2 TDs; Jason Willis, Wingate, 177 yards on 13 carries, 4 TDs, Receiver: Charlie Guinade, Mars Hill, 12 catches, 167 yards, TD; Carlos Hernandez, Wake Forest, 9 catches, 194 yards, TD Defensive line: JayVarion Peters-Johnson, Livingstone, 6 tackles, 6 solo, 2 TFLs, 1 sack; Jy’Mire Wright, Mars Hill, 15 tackles, 4 solo, 1.5 TFLs Linebacker: AJ Benton, Campbell, 5 tackles, 3 solo, 2.5 TFLs, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovered, 1 QB hit; Quadir McEachin, Shaw, 13 tackles, 10 solo, 1 TFL, 1 sack Defensive back: Britton Pascoe, UNC Pembroke, 7 tackles, 4 solo, 1 TFL, 1 fumble recovery, returned 52 yards for a touchdown; DJ Stevenson, Brevard, 4 tackles, 3 solo, 1 interception and 88-yard return for a touchdown Special teams: Jamari Broady, Catawba, blocked punt and blocked field goal (both returned by Catawba for touchdowns)

His 194 yards in an upset win at Louisville helped Wake Forest’s Carlos Hernandez return to our All-State team this week. MATT KELLEY / AP PHOTO

JASON JACKSON FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Duke freshmen Bryson Howard, right, and Cameron Williams take part in a preseason practice.

HURRICANES from page B1 media, and I want to be respectful and make sure that when players talk to me, they know that it’s just between us.” It still seems like a shortsighted play by Nikishin seeing that the roles he seemingly covets — more even-strength minutes and perhaps the chance to quarterback a No. 1 power play unit — could both be available to him next season with the contracts of Jalen Chatfield and Shayne Gostisbehere set to expire. Nikishin’s absence did open the door for competition on the blue line, and 2023 fifth-round pick Charles Alexis Legault has, at least to start the season, won the job next to Gostisbehere on the third pairing. “He takes pride in his defensive game, and he takes pride in what he does every day,” Gostisbehere said of Legault, also praising the 6-foot-4, 220-pounder’s size and physicality. Legault, who played 12 games

“I think just having that comfort of guys that you know you can trust is good.” Rod Brind’Amour, Hurricanes coach with the Hurricanes last season, said he is excited for the opportunity. “There’s still a lot of work to do, so I’m going to keep on working on that,” he said Monday. Legault will be the only rookie on the opening night roster after Carolina reassigned both Bradly Nadeau and Felix Unger Sorum to the AHL’s Chicago Wolves — the end of a training camp that Brind’Amour said led to “tough, tough decisions.” “I would anticipate we’ll see some of these young guys shortly,” Brind’Amour said. Part of the reason neither Nadeau nor Unger Sorum are starting the season in Ra-

leigh is the team’s roster crunch. With Jesperi Kotkaniemi and Mike Reilly both on the roster, Carolina has 22 players with one spot available. Instead of a young forward, the opening went to No. 3 goalie Cayden Primeau. The Hurricanes would prefer not to keep three goalies, but surely the team’s experience last season losing Primeau on waivers at the start of the year — it wasn’t all bad; they had picked up Brandon Bussi as insurance — has Tulsky looking for an opportunity to sneak Primeau through waivers. With teams like Buffalo scrambling for goalie depth due to injuries to start the year, Primeau is probably being eyed around the league due to his performance in the AHL last season and his 58 games of NHL experience. “We see him as an important part of our organizational depth at that position,” Tulsky said of Primeau, “and so, at least right now, we’re gonna run with three goalies and see where we go.”

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001484-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Hannelore Albert, 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 1st day of January 2027 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 1st day of October 2026. Eric M. Ditmore, Administrator of the Hannelore Albert Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 10/01, 10/08, 10/15, 10/22

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

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001523-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Cindy Lee Blanton, 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 1st day of January 2027 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 1st day of October 2026. Michael Chad Blanton, Administrator 2467 Lull Water Drive Fayetteville, NC 28306 Publish: 10/01, 10/08, 10/15, 10/22

NOTICE 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 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE, SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NUMBER: 26E001533-250 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: Yvonne Emily Dalton, Deceased. The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Yvonne Emily Dalton, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before January 1, 2027, 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. Sharon R. Smith Executor for the Estate of Yvonne Emily Dalton 921 Rochester Dr. Fayetteville, NC 28305 910-751-9730

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 TO CREDITORS:

NOTICE

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

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001513-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of JoVonne Nicolette Mason, 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 1st day of January 2027 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 1st day of October 2026. Sofia Pearson, Administrator of the JoVonne Nicolette Mason Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 10/01, 10/08, 10/15, 10/22

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001521-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Rudy Alan Studer, Sr., deceased late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 1st day of January 2027 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 1st day of October 2026. Eric M. Ditmore, Administrator of the Rudy Alan Studer, Sr. Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 10/01, 10/08, 10/15, 10/22

NOTICE

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001514-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Brenda Susan Hager, 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 1st day of January 2027 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 1st day of October 2026. Eric M. Ditmore, Administrator of the Brenda Susan Hager Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 10/01, 10/08, 10/15, 10/22

Notice to Creditors Having Qualified as Executor of the Estate of Micheal Hurst, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 2nd day of January 2027, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment. This the 25th day of September, 2026. Executor for the Estate Audrey Hurst 6851 Mahogany Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28314

NOTICE 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: 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 NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001508-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Alexander Lucas, 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 1st day of January 2027 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 1st day of October 2026. Payton Lucas, Executor of the Alexander Lucas Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 10/01, 10/08, 10/15, 10/22

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001512-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Joseph Nathaniel Mason, 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 1st day of January 2027 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 1st day of October 2026. Sofia Pearson, Administrator of the Joseph Nathaniel Mason Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 10/01, 10/08, 10/15, 10/22

NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Administrator’s Notice 26E001511-250 The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Thelma B. Mason, 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 1st day of January 2027 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 1st day of October 2026. Sofia Pearson, Administrator of the Thelma B. Mason Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28305 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 10/01, 10/08, 10/15, 10/22

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.

NOTICE ESTATE FILE 26e001527-250 IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: Judy Merilyn Mayle Administrator’s NOTICE The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator of the estate of Judy Merilyn Mayle deceased, late of Cumberland County, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the day, January 1 of 2027. (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 said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This day October 1 of, 2026. Christy Houser 4435 Wellington Dr Fayetteville NC 28314 Executor of the estate of Judy Mayle, deceased

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 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

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

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 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 Having qualified as administrator of the estate of Sylvia Mayanna White, deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the decedent to present them to the undersigned on or before January 1, 2027, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Claims are presented to the administrator at the following mailing address: Gloria White Gist 3724 Persimmon Rd Hope Mills, NC 28348 All persons indebted to said estate please make immediate payment. This the September 30, 2026. Gloria White Gist Administrator

NOTICE State of North Carolina In The General Court of Justice County of Cumberland Superior Court Division Estate File #: 26E001550-250 Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice The undersigned, having qualified as the Administrator of the Estate of David Reginald Williams, 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 1st day of January, 2027, (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 1st day of October, 2026. Shelia D. Williams, Administrator 1760 Geiberger Drive Fayetteville, NC 28303 Of the Estate of David Reginald Williams , Deceased

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND 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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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

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

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Edward Jackson 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 January 4, 2027, 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.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

WAKE

RANDOLPH

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 NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION Executor’s Notice 26E000993-250

NOTICE TO CREDITORS 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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Carrie Ann Kiger., deceased late of Cumberland County, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned on or before the 1st day of January 2027 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 1st day of October 2026. Charles Robert Kiger, Executor of the Carrie Ann Kiger Estate Haymount Law Attorneys for the Estate 1008 Hay Street Fayetteville, NC 28301 Telephone: (910) 672-4600 Publish: 10/01/26, 10/08/2026, 10/15/2026, 10/22/2026

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF Sharon Ramona Sims / Sharon R. Maxson Sims CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 26E001392-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against Sharon Ramona Sims / Sharon R. Maxson Sims, of Cumberland County are notified to present their claims to the Executor, David C. Sims, 6809 Woodmark Dr., Fayetteville, NC 28314 on or before the 2nd day of January, 2027 (which date is three months after the day of the first publication of this notice), or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. Debtors of the Decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the Administrator named above. This the 28th day of September, 2026. David C. Sims Executor of the Estate of Sharon Romona Sims / Sharon R. Maxson Sims Davis W. Puryear Hutchens Law Firm Attorneys for the Estate 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Run dates: October 1, October 8, October 15 and October 22, 2026.

NEW HANOVER NOTICE

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Opal Bowman Garner aka Ruby Opal Garner, 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 January 4, 2027, 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 1st day of October, 2026 Collette Garner Hoover Executor of the Estate of Opal Bowman Garner aka Ruby Opal Garner Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 10/01/26 10/08/26 10/15/26 10/22/26

NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Clarence Ray Evans aka Clarence Ray Evans, Jr., late of Randolph County, North Carolina, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of the decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at the office of Ivey & Eggleston, Attorneys at Law, 111 Worth Street, Asheboro, North Carolina 27203, on or before January 4, 2027, 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 1st day of October 2026 Patricia Evans McBride Executor of the Estate of Clarence Ray Evans aka Clarence Ray Evans, Jr. Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 10/01/26 10/08/26 10/15/26 10/22/26

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 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

Notice to Creditors The undersigned does hereby notify any persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of Alan Anderson Bunting, late of 2581 Winding Woods Lane , Asheboro NC, 27205 to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 1st day of January 2027 , or this notice will be pled in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations related to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned . This the 1st day of October 2026. Beth B. Coleman 4371 Willow Grove Trail Asheboro NC 27205

This 1st day of October, 2026 Deborah Coble Holcomb aka Deborah Faye Coble aka Deborah Coble Winfrey aka Deborah Coble Garner Executor of the Estate of Edward Jackson Coble Marion “Beth” McQuaid, Attorney IVEY & EGGLESTON, ATTORNEYS AT LAW 111 Worth Street Asheboro, NC 27203 (336) 625-3043 PUBL/DATES: 10/01/26 10/08/26 10/15/26 10/22/26

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)

Notice to Creditors 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 PUBL/DATES: 09/24/26 10/01/26 10/08/26 10/15/26

Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of ERIC TERRELL THOMPSON, SR., late of Wake County, North Carolina (26E002952-910), 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 4th of January 2027 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 1st day of October 2026. Tammy Renee Thompson Executor of the Estate of Eric Terrell Thompson, Sr. c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 10/1, 10/8, 10/15, 10/22/2026)

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

CUMBERLAND 26SP000550-250 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 She’Erria S. Graham a/k/a Sheerria S. Graham to Jackie Biggs, Trustee(s), which was dated October 22, 2018 and recorded on October 22, 2018 in Book 10394 at Page 175, 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 14, 2026 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING all of Lot 435, in a subdivision known as Harris Place, Section Two, Phase Two, and the same being duly recorded in Plat Book 102, Page 34, cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 843 Schley Dr, 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

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 She’erria S. Graham, unmarried. An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is

sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the

confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 26-11600-FC01

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 25CV016677-250 Village Capital & Investment LLC, Plaintiff,

vs.

executed by Zachary Brashers and spouse, Madelynn Brashers, dated May 29, 2024 and recorded on May 30, 2024 in Book 11982 at Page 0260 of the Cumberland County, North Carolina Registry. The Property shall be sold together with improvements located thereon, towards satisfaction of the debt due by Zachary Brashers and Madelynn Brashers, and secured by the lien against such property in favor of Village Capital & Investment 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 14, 2026 at 01:30 PM the following described real property (including all improvements thereon) located in Cumberland County, North Carolina and described as follows:

agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

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.

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 CUMBERLAND COUNTY Register of Deeds’ office not more than ten (10) days prior to the date hereof are Zachary Brashers and spouse Madelynn Brashers.

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.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Jeremy B. Wilkins, Commissioner, pursuant to the Order/Judgment entered in the abovecaptioned case on August 5, 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 4274 Home Stretch Dr, Parkton, NC 28371 (“Property”). Said Property is secured by the Deed of Trust

Being all of Lot 261, in a subdivision known as “STEEPLECHASE, SECTION ONE”, and the same being duly recorded in Plat Book 114 Page 132, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. 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

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

26-124677

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

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.

Zachary Brashers; Madelynn Brashers; Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, Defendant(s). NOTICE OF JUDICIALFORECLOSURE SALE

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 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

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

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 SALE Under and by virtue of the power and

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000469-250 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

DAVIDSON 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

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

The sale will be reported to the court and

JEREMY B. WILKINS, Commissioner 5431 Oleander Drive, Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 (910) 392-4988 Phone NCSales@brockandscott.com File No.: 25-21350-JUD01

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

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 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:

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.

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.

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

to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Davidson County, North Carolina, to wit: 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 non-exclusive 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.

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 Stephen

James Thorbergson. An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole

remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 26-16319-FC01

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. 45-21.23.

File No.: 26-12660-FC01

25-121377

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 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.

DURHAM AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 23SP000371-310 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,

26SP000067-310 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DURHAM COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Robert Nesta Michael and Megan Nicole Willick to Fidelity National Title Insurance Co., A Nebraska Corporation, Trustee(s), which was dated April 23, 2019 and recorded on April 23, 2019 in Book 8639 at Page 686, Durham County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual

25SP000419-310 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, DURHAM COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Kay O. Respess and Vernon Respess Jr to Angela M. Burton, Trustee(s), which was dated July 9, 2014 and recorded on July 14, 2014 in Book 7529 at Page 162, Durham County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on October 15, 2026 at 11:30 AM, and will sell

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). 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. The Property shall be sold together with

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.

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

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.

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.: 25-34183-FC01

THIS PROPERTY HAS STREET ADDRESS 4014 LUDGATE DRIVE. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 4014 Ludgate Drive, Durham, NC 27713. A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the

remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/ or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are All Lawful Heirs of Kay H. Respess. 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.: 23-13194-FC02

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: 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. 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 DURHAM COUNTY Register of Deeds’ office not more than ten (10) days prior to the date hereof are Edward O. Wando. 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.: 24-15437-JUD01

THOMPSON AND JADE E. THOMPSON 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 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.

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 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:

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 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.

and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on October 15, 2026 at 11:30 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Durham County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING all of Lot 1 of the Property of Lewis W. Fletcher and wife, Patricia H. Fletcher, as per plat and survey thereof on file in the office of the Register of Deeds of Durham County in Plat Book 129, Page 214, to which plat reference is hereby made for a more particular description of same. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 4207 Fiesta Road, Durham, NC 27703. A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED.

to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Durham County, North Carolina, to wit: LYING AT THE NORTHERNMOST INTERSECTION OF LUDGATE DRIVE AND RUSH COURT CONTAINING 11,033 SQUARE FEET, MORE OR LESS, AND BEING ALL OF LOT 66 OF FORESTWOOD II, PHASE III, SECTION TWO, AS PER PLAT AND SURVEY THEREOF NOW ON FILE IN PLAT BOOK 133 AT PAGE 7 IN THE OFFICE OF THE REGISTER OF DEEDS OF DURHAM COUNTY TO WHICH PLAT REFERENCE IS HEREBY MADE FOR A MORE PARTICULAR DESCRIPTION OF SAME.

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,

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

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

TAKE NOTICE SINGLETARY; SHEADALE SINGLETARY, and Spouse of, if any; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; CITY OF DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA; and SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. Substitute Trustee; Defendants. NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION 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 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. FOUNDATION LEGAL GROUP, LLP By its Partner, HUTCHENS LAW FIRM LLP By: __/s/ Bryce by_________ Claire Collins Dickerhoff

N.C. State Bar No. 44306 Bryce Ashby N.C. State Bar No. 61688 Post Office Box 2505 Fayetteville, NC 28302 Telephone: (910) 864-6888 Facsimile: (910) 864-6848 Claire.dickerhoff@hutchenslawfirm.com Bryce.ashby@hutchenslawfirm.com Attorneys for Plaintiff 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

County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:15 PM on October 14, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Winston Salem in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING KNOWN AND DESIGNATED as Lot No. 87, as shown on the map of Camden Forest Subdivision, Section III, as recorded in Plat Book 42, Pages 61 and 62 in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County, North Carolina, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1629 Asherton Drive, Winston Salem, 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.

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. 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

NORTH CAROLINA FORSYTH COUNTY

v. DARLENE A. NELUMS; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; and SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE Defendants. NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION TO: 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: Judicial Foreclosure of a Deed of Trust encumbering real property located at: 898 Shalimar Drive

Winston Salem, NC 27107 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. This the 24th day of August 2026. 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

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000056-330

Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:00 PM on October 14, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Kernersville in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The land referred to herein below is situated in the County of Forsyth, State of North Carolina, and is described as follows: Being known and designated as Lot Number 22 as shown on the map of Linville Manor, as recorded in Plat Book 25, Page 79 in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County, North Carolina, reference to which is hereby made for a particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 405 Ja Mar Drive, Kernersville, North Carolina. Parcel ID: 6855-76-7938.000 Commonly known as: 405 Ja Mar Drive, Kernersville, NC 27284 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. 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: 1286184 - 147088

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 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

following described property situated in Iredell County, North Carolina, to wit: BEGINNING at an iron pin located North 3 deg 46 min East 101.60 feel from a nail located in the intersection of McNeely Avenue (now Selma Drive) and Burke Lane, and running thence from said beginning point with the margin of Selma Lane North 87 deg 18 min 33 sec West 119.70 feet to an iron pin; thence North 02 deg 38 min East 94.67 feet to an iron pin: thence South 88 deg 17 min 26 sec Bast 121.65 feet to an iron pin in the western margin of Selma Drive; thence with the western margin of said roadway South 03 deg 46 min West 96.77 feet to the point and place of BEGINNING, containing 0.265 acre, more or less, according to that certain survey dated December 27, 1968, prepared by R.B. Keslter, Jr. and being designated as Lot No. 2 Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 49 Selma Drive, Mooresville, NC 28115. A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be

required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. Substitute Trustee does not have possession of the property and cannot grant access, prior to or after the sale, for purposes of inspection and/ or appraisal. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are All Lawful Heirs of Thomas Wade Cross. 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

DURHAM NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA DURHAM COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION FILE NO. 26CV008180-310 FAY SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff, v. UNKNOWN HEIRS OF JEANETTE

FORSYTH NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000413-330 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Kisha L. Adams (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Kisha L. Adams) to CB Services Corp., Trustee(s), dated August 3, 2011, and recorded in Book No. RE3013, at Page 3253 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston Salem, Forsyth

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

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

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Buddy W. Warden and April M. Warden (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): April M. Warden and Buddy W. Warden) to Old Republic National Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated December 19, 2017, and recorded in Book No. RE 3384, at Page 1 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on March 1, 2021, in Book No. RE 3590, at Page 2433 A Loan Modification recorded on May 22, 2023, in Book No. RE 3754, at Page 4346 , default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute

IREDELL 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

26SP000149-480 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, IREDELL COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Thomas W Cross and Traci Cross to Alan G. Carpenter, P.A., Trustee(s), which was dated September 29, 2005 and recorded on October 3, 2005 in Book 1686 at Page 2260, Iredell County Registry, North Carolina. Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on October 15, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the

B10

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

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

JOHNSTON 26SP000335-500 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 Shaniece Makliah Decastro a/k/a S. Makliah Decastro, a single woman to Hankin & Pack, PLLC, Trustee(s), which was dated September 29, 2022 and recorded on September 30, 2022 in Book 6352 at Page 163, Johnston County Registry, North Carolina.

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.

courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on October 13, 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.

BEING all of Lot 41 as shown on a plat entitled “The Crossings at Flowers Plantation, Phase 3, as shown on recorded Map Book 93, Pages 254-256, Johnston County Register of Deeds. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 72 Little Leaf Lane, Clayton, NC 27527.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000071-500

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.

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

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24SP000607-500 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Kaleb H. Coward and Brittany Coward (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Kaleb H. Coward and Brittany Coward) to Investor Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated April 18, 2024, and recorded in Book No. 6652, at Page 726 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 13, 2026 and will sell to the

NEW HANOVER AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP001697-640 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Charles D. Marshall, A. Denise Marshall, J.C. McDonald (Deceased) and Mae Roy McDonald (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): A. Denise Marshall) to M. Patricia Oliver, Trustee(s), dated December 28, 2007, and recorded in Book No. 5264, at Page 2834 in New Hanover County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on March 30, 2011, in Book No. 5554, at Page 1373 A Loan Modification recorded on October 6, 2014, in Book No. 5843, at Page 1345 , default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds New Hanover

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.

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

County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Wilmington, New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 13, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Castle Hayne in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 7, Block B, of Wood Haven Subdivision as the same is shown on a map of said Subdivision recorded in Map Book 6 at Page 101 of the New Hanover County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 5325 Sunray Road, Castle Hayne, 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

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

highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Benson in the County of Johnston, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 12, Percy Place Subdivision, Phase Two, as shown on a map recorded in Plat Book 95, Pages 403-406, Johnston County Registry, to which plat reference is hereby made for a full and complete description of said lot. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 314 Paint Horse Drive, Benson, 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.

File No.: 26-13607-FC01

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

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TAKE NOTICE

NEW HANOVER NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 26SP000252-640 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by DANNY R. STEVENS AKA DANNY STEVENS dated August 4, 2021 in the amount of $58,000.00 and recorded in Book RB 6480, Page 37 of the New Hanover County Public Registry by ANTHONY MASELLI OR GENEVIEVE JOHNSON, EITHER OF WHOM MAY ACT, Substitute Trustee, default having been made in the terms of agreement set forth by the loan agreement secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, ANTHONY MASELLI OR GENEVIEVE JOHNSON, EITHER OF WHOM MAY ACT, having been substituted as Successor Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Official Records of New Hanover County, North Carolina, in Book 6842, Page 88, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000411-640 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Al Padrino, Inc., a North Carolina Corporation (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Al Padrino, Inc., a North Carolina Corporation) to Bailey & Busby, PLLC, Trustee(s), dated March 11, 2025, and recorded in Book No. RB 6761, at Page 407 in New Hanover County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds New Hanover County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Wilmington, New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 13, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Wilmington in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEGINNING at a point in the western right

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000262-640 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Storehouse Holdings, LLC, a North Carolina Limited Liability Company (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Storehouse Holdings, LLC, a North Carolina Limited Liability Company) to Aaron Daniel Lindquist, Trustee(s), dated August 16, 2023, and recorded in Book No. RB 6658, at Page 2503 in New Hanover County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds New Hanover County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Wilmington, New Hanover County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on October 13, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in

ONSLOW NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000396-660 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Jeremy W. White (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Jeremy W. White) to Investor Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated December 21, 2023, and recorded in Book No. 6078, at Page 588 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000240-660 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Christopher Howell and Faith Lashie Johnson (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Christopher Howell and Faith Lashie Johnson) to J. Douglas McCarthy, Trustee(s), dated April 1, 2024, and recorded in Book No. 6124, at Page 507 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on October 14, 2026 and will sell to the

October 13, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): R03518-012-008-000 ADDRESS: 1010 GORDON WOODS RD WILMINGTON, NC 28411 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): UNKNOWN HEIRS OF DANNY R. STEVENS THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK RB 6480, PAGE 37, AS FOLLOWS: ALL THAT CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY SITUATED IN THE COUNTY OF NEW HANOVER, STATE OF NC, DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: ALL THAT CERTAIN LOT OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATED IN NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA AND MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF LOT 273, SECTION 4, GORDON WOODS, AS SHOWN ON MAP OF SAME RECORDED IN MAP BOOK 34 AT PAGE 168 OF THE NEW HANOVER COUNTY REGISTRY, REFERENCE TO WHICH IS HEREBY MADE FOR A MORE PARTICULAR DESCRIPTION. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole

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

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

of way line of the Winter Park-Wrightsboro Road (30 feet from the centerline thereof) at a point perpendicular to a tack in the centerline of said road, said tack being North 06 degrees 12 minutes East 2,149.43 feet from the intersection of said centerline with the centerline of Market Street Road; running thence from said beginning point along the western line of said road North 06-12 East 100 feet to a point; thence perpendicular to said road North 83-48 West 200 feet to a point; thence parallel with said road South 06-12 West 100 feet to a point; thence perpendicular to said road South 83-48 East 200 feet to the point of BEGINNING, containing about one-half (0.5) acres; having New Hanover Parcel ID # R04910-003-016-000 and being the same lands described in deed recorded in Book 435, Page 331 in said Registry and as shown on map of Fairlawn Subdivision Section 1, recorded in Map Book 6, Page 6 in said Registry, as the lot marked “SOLD” which adjoins Fairlawn Drive on the south and Kerr Avenue on the West. See also Deed recorded in Book 2511 at Page 458 in the New Hanover County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 513 North Kerr Avenue, Wilmington, North Carolina. LESS AND EXCEPT that portion of the above described property shown in the Judgment in favor of the North Carolina Department of Transportation in Book 5853 at Page 1551 of

the New Hanover County Registry.

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

Wilmington in the County of New Hanover, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point in the Northern line of Maple Avenue 420 feet Westwardly from its intersection with the Western line of Sixth Street and runs thence Westwardly along said Northern line of Maple Avenue 99.5 feet to the Eastern line of Idlewild; thence Northwardly along the dividing line between Idlewild and Edgewood, 296.54 feet to a point, which is 250 feet as measured at right angles from Cedar Avenue, thence Eastwardly and parallel with Cedar Avenue 124.48 feet to a point; thence Southwardly and parallel with Sixth Street 295.56 feet to the point of Beginning, being all of Lot 31 and the Southern part of Lot 37, according to the map of Edgewood, duly recorded in Book 69 at Page 113 of the New Hanover County Registry Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 4201 Maple Avenue, Wilmington, North Carolina. Being the same tract conveyed to the party of the first part by Deed duly recorded in Book 351 at Page 585 of the records of New Hanover County aforesaid. 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.

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

door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on October 14, 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: Being all of Lot 19, Block B, as shown on a Map entitled “W. H. Humphrey Farm (Tract No. 2)” prepared by Robert J. Strickland, Registered Surveyor, on February 10, 1965, and recorded in Map Book 12, Page 5, Onslow County Registry, reference to which map is hereby made for a more complete and accurate description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 232 Beulaville Highway, Richlands, North Carolina. Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23. Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1). Should the property be

highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 18, Block E, according to that certain plat entitled, “Property of Northwoods Building Company, A Part of Northwoods, Jacksonville, North Carolina” dated January 1954, prepared by H. Edgerton, and recorded in Map Book 4, Page 22, Onslow County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 522 Henderson Drive, Jacksonville, 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

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.

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.

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North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

ONSLOW NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000206-660 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Bryce Mason Smith and Megan Elizabeth Smith (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Bryce Mason Smith and Megan Elizabeth Smith) to Real Advantage Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated May 6, 2024, and recorded in Book No. 6146, at Page 960 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 25SP001699-660 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Anthony Forrester (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Anthony J. Forrester) to Fidelity National Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), dated January 31, 2022, and recorded in Book No. 5675, at Page 579 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on February 25, 2025, in Book No. 6308, at Page 64 , 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

ROBESON 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

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: That lot of land in the City of Lumberton,

UNION NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, UNION COUNTY 26 SP 000316-890 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Edward L. Bobbitt, Jr. and Tonya Lee Bobbitt, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $436,700.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. (“MERS”), as nominee for First Community Mortgage, Inc., Mortgagee, dated December 9th, 2022 and recorded on December 14th, 2022 in Book 8624, Page 651, Union County Registry. Default having been made in the payment of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Union County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Union County, North

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 county courthouse for conducting the sale

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.

door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on October 14, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 5, Half Moon Creek Subdivision as recorded in Map Book 24, Page 91, Onslow County Registry, which map is by referenced incorporated herein. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1378 Ramsey Road, Jacksonville, 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

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.

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: 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

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. 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

Carolina, at 2:00 PM on October 15th, 2026, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: BEGINNING at a point on the northern margin of Sunnybrook Drive (60 feet wide), on a common corner (southeastern) with Lot 51 (Plat Book 5, Page 222); thence from the BEGINNING point North 1330-35 East 400.02 feet to a point on the southern margin of Hillsdale Drive (60 feet wide) evidenced by a rebar; thence with the southern margin of Hillsdale Drive South 7620-33 East 92.51 feet to a point evidenced by a rebar; thence South 31-43-32 West (crossing through a manhole) 63.78 feet to a point evidenced by a rebar; thence South 76-07-59 East 27.91 feet to a point evidenced by a rebar; thence South 13-3826 West 139.25 feet to a point evidenced by a rebar; thence South 76-14-06 East 64.69 feet to a point evidenced by a rebar; thence South 13-38-48 West 200.18 feet to a point on the northern margin of Sunnybrook Drive evidenced by a rebar; thence with the northern margin of Sunnybrook Drive North 75-58-45 West 64.66 feet to a point evidenced by a bent pipe; thence continuing with the northern margin of the Drive North 76-25-16 West 99.72 feet to the point and place of BEGINNING, containing 1.192 acres, and being Lot 50 and portions of Lot 49 of Hillsdale, Section II and Lot 28 of Hillsdale, Section I, Map Book 5, Page 171

and Map Book 5, Page 222, Union County Registry, as shown upon an unrecorded map dated December 5, 2006 by Carroll L. Rushing, NC-PLS-L-1513. Said property commonly known as 604 Sunnybrook Drive, Monroe, NC 28110; PIN #09-219-043 and #09-219-023 Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 604 Sunnybrook Drive, Monroe, NC 28110 Tax ID: 09-219-043 and 09-219-023 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. Cash will not be accepted. 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 Edward L. Bobbitt, Jr. and Tonya Lee Bobbitt. 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.

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: 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 DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to

pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination. Pursuant to NCGS §45-21.25A, this sale may be subject to remote bids placed by bidders not physically present at the place of sale, which may be accepted by the person conducting the sale, or their agent”. If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a

bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 25-35542-FC01

AM on October 14, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in Onslow County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 115, Magnolia Park, Section X-A, as will appear of record in Map Book 36, at Page 91, Slide J-838, Onslow County Registry, reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 409 Spring Drive, Jacksonville, North Carolina. Subject to any and all Restrictions and Easements of record. Being the same property conveyed to Bryce Mason Smith and spouse, Megan Elizabeth Smith, by Thomas M. Phillips, Jr. and spouse Kelsey Phillips, in deed dated 3/29/2023 recorded 5/4/2023 in Book 5958 Page 598 in the County of Onslow and State of North Carolina. More commonly known as: 409 Spring Drive, Jacksonville, NC 28540 Parcel Id: 457382000/058437

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 26-001402-01

B13

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

UNION 26SP000013-890 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 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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 26SP000357-890 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a Deed of Trust executed by GARY USHER dated November 26, 2019 in the amount of $146,231.00 and recorded in Book 7537 at Page 792 in the Union 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 Union County, North Carolina, in Book 9388, Page 408, 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 Union County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on October 14, 2026 at 10:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Union, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as

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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP001097-910 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Augusto B. Infante (Deceased) and Elizabeth A. Infante (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Augusto B. Infante and Elizabeth A. Infante) to Debra W. Still, Trustee(s), dated May 20, 2010, and recorded in Book No. 013946, at Page 00957 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 10:00 AM on October 14, 2026 and will sell to the

25SP002742-910 AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, WAKE COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Verean D. Chineke to Landquest Title Corporation, Trustee(s), which was dated June 30, 2005 and recorded on July 1, 2005 in Book 11450 at Page 94, Wake County Registry, North Carolina.

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

filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy. If the transaction is subject to the FinCEN Residential Real Estate Reporting Rule (“RRE”) issued pursuant to the Bank Secrecy Act, information necessary to comply with the RRE Rule must be obtained and provided to the Reporting Person, as defined in the RRE Rule, prior to closing. Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 File No.: 25-26746-FC01

follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 03114008G ADDRESS: 5304 STATE LINE ROAD MARSHVILLE, NC 28103 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): GARY USHER THE LAND DESCRIBED HEREIN IS SITUATED IN THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, COUNTY OF UNION, AND IS DESCRIBED IN DEED BOOK 7163, PAGE 281, AS FOLLOWS: BEING ALL OF TRACT 3, CONTAINING 2.41 ACRES AS SHOWN ON REVISED PLAT OF BOUNDARY SURVEY & MINOR SUBDIVISION FOR FRANKLIN & ALISON HOWEY DATED MARCH 24, 2017 AND REVISED MARCH 27, 2018 TO SHOW CHANGES TO LOT #3 AND LOT #4 (DIVISION LINES AND ACREAGE), SAID REVISED PLAT BEING RECORDED IN PLAT CABINET O, FILE 64, (A REVISION OF PLAT CABINET N, FILE 645) UNION COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, TO WHICH REFERENCE IS HEREBY MADE AND INCORPORATED HEREIN BY THIS REFERENCE FOR A MORE PARTICULAR METES AND BOUNDS DESCRIPTION. 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

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.

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

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.

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 Verean D Chineke.

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.

highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Wake Forest in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Lying and being in the Town of Wake Forest, Wake Forest Township, WAKE County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 2308, Heritage North Subdivision at Heritage Wake Forest, Phase 1, Section 6, as shown on a map recorded in Book of Maps 2007, at Page 621, Wake County Registry, to which map reference is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 405 Dimock Way, Wake Forest, 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

following described property situated in Wake County, North Carolina, to wit: Being all of Lot 2274, Phase Three, Spyglass Hills at Hedingham on the Neuse, as shown on map recorded in Book of Maps 1998, Page 1131, Wake County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 2172 Ventana Lane, Raleigh, NC 27604.

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 14, 2026 at 10:00 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.

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24SP001009-910

North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on October 12, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Raleigh in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 18, Block B, Greenwood Farms Subdivision, Section Two, Part Three, as shown by map of Greenwood Farms Subdivision, Section Two, Part Three, by Lovett and Bunn, Inc. Engineers, dated June 8, 1967, and recorded in Book of Maps 1967, Page 116, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 3612 Wheaton Place, Raleigh, North Carolina.

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Harry D. Wood (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Harry D. Wood) to LandQuest Title Corporation, Trustee(s), dated September 3, 2008, and recorded in Book No. 013236, at Page 01870 in Wake County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on November 22, 2010, in Book No. 014166, at Page 00553 , 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,

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale,

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.: 25-28312-FC01

B14

North State Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

WAKE NOTICE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF WAKE IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 25SP001764-910 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY GABRIEL E. LOPEZ AND CAITLIN LOPEZ DATED JULY 22, 2020 RECORDED IN BOOK NO. 017978, AT PAGE 01161 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE

26-126128 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 26SP001382-910 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MARQUITA M. RICE DATED OCTOBER 30, 2024 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 19751 AT PAGE 1129 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will

25-122071 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION WAKE COUNTY 25SP001499-910 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY TEDDY JOHN BARNES AND DOROTHY ANNE BARNES DATED JANUARY 8, 2022 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 18879 AT PAGE 883 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 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

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

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 to be immediately due and payable;

Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

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. 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

expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake County courthouse at 11:00AM on October 15, 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 Marquita M. Rice, dated October 30, 2024 to secure the original principal amount of $393,000.00, and recorded in Book 19751 at Page 1129 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: 502 Village Branch Lane, Wake Forest, NC 27587 Tax Parcel ID: 0507166 Present Record Owners: Marquita M. Rice

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Marquita M. Rice. 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 21, 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:

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 15, 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 Teddy John Barnes and Dorothy Anne Barnes, dated January 8, 2022 to secure the original principal amount of $434,084.00, and recorded in Book 18879 at Page 883 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: 1309 Wakefield Farm Road, Zebulon, NC 27597 Tax Parcel ID: 0272452 Present Record Owners:

Teddy John Barnes and Dorothy Anne Barnes The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Teddy John Barnes and Dorothy Anne Barnes. 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

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 21, 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:

designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 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.

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:

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

advance. The extension fee shall be in the form of a certified or cashier’s check made payable to the Secretary of HUD. If the high bidder closes the sale prior to the expiration of any extension period, the unused portion of the extension fee shall be applied toward the amount due.

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.

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.

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 therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake County courthouse at 10:00 AM on October 14, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Gabriel E. Lopez; Caitlin Lopez, dated July 22, 2020 to secure the original principal amount of $490,000.00, and recorded in Book No. 017978, at Page 01161 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.

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

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

Address of property: 4853 Winterwood Drive, Raleigh, NC 27613 Tax Parcel ID: 0169164 The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Gabriel E. Lopez and Caitlin Lopez.

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.

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

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

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 3rd day of September, 2026. Ingle Case Number: 36890-63379

26-126128

25-122071

agreement are tendered to the Foreclosure Commissioner, in the form of a certified or cashier’s check payable to the Secretary of HUD, before public auction of the property is completed. The amount that must be paid if the mortgage is to be reinstated prior to the scheduled sale 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

VOLUME 149 ISSUE 32 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

CHATHAMNEWSRECORD.COM

THE CHATHAM COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Cruisin’ for a cause Seventy-five riders joined the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office on Saturday for its “Cruisin’ for Champions” group ride, raising more than $15,000 for Special Olympics North Carolina. The group met at White Oak Beach on Jordan Lake before cruising Chatham County’s backroads.

the

BRIEF this week

“The Clothesline Project” set to launch awareness month Pittsboro In observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Chatham Community Library, in partnership with Second Bloom of Chatham, will hold “The Clothesline Project,” a visual display designed to raise awareness about intimate partner violence and uplift the experiences of survivors. It will take place from noon to 3 p.m. Saturday at the library. The event is free and open to the public. “The Clothesline Project” brings attention to intimate partner violence and statistics that often go ignored. Since its inaugural display of 31 shirts in 1990, the project has spread across the country. Second Bloom of Chatham’s local collection of hundreds of T-shirts representing “The Clothesline Project” will be displayed.

Wren Memorial Library to hold blood drive Siler City Wren Memorial Library in Siler City will be the site of an American Red Cross blood drive Monday from 1:30-6 p.m. Those who give blood with the Red Cross through Oct. 18 will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. Anyone interested in next week’s event can visit chathamlibraries.org or contact Wren Memorial Library at 919-742-2016 for information.

Chatham County still looking for avenues to oppose gas pipeline Enbridge has stated it is prepared to sue By Ryan Henkel Chatham News & Record PITTSBORO — The Chatham County Board of Commissioners has officially stated its position related to the

tial and commercial demands. The resolution points to the county’s efforts and goals to protect the health and safety of its community and local environment, its desire to preserve its farm lands and rural culture, as well as its belief that the Enbridge pipeline will be harmful to the county. “The principles of justice,

fairness, law, prudence, and the health, safety and welfare of the residents of the county all demand that the county thoroughly investigate the Enbridge pipeline and, where allowed by law and supported by the facts, oppose the construction of the pipeline,” said Board See PIPELINE, page A3

Town pushes initiative as leaves fall The regular loose-leaf collection remains available beginning later this month in Pittsboro Chatham News & Record staff PITTSBORO — Town of Pittsboro officials are encouraging residents to let leaves from fallen trees re-

main in natural areas this fall. “Leave Your Leaves” is a voluntary initiative in partnership with the New Hope Bird Alliance. The program promotes healthier landscapes while supporting pollinators, increasing biodiversity, improving soil health, protecting water quality, and reducing pollution, according to a release from the town.

“Our goal is to help residents understand that fallen leaves are more than yard waste; they’re a natural resource,” said Daniel Snipes, public works director. “Leaving leaves where appropriate can reduce the amount of material placed at the curb while providing important environmental benefits for soil, water quality, and local wildlife.” As leaves decompose, they re-

Senate passes bipartisan college sports bill that would rein in payments, transfers “This is a matter of law, federal law, and only Congress can fix it.” Ted Cruz, Senate Commerce Committee chairman

$2.00

latest Enbridge Gas project. At the board’s Sept. 21 meeting, the commissioners passed a resolution in opposition of the proposed Enbridge pipeline, which is planned to have approximately 28 miles of pipe running through Chatham County from Siler City to Moncure in order to increase connectivity and meet growing residen-

The overwhelming bipartisan vote came after years of negotiations following a major 2025 court settlement By Mary Clare Jalonick, Joey Cappelletti and Eddie Pells The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Senate passed a sweeping bipartisan bill Monday that would regulate college sports, an attempt to end “chaos” in an industry that has been upended by skyrocketing athlete payments

and near-unrestricted transfers between schools. The overwhelming 77-22 vote to pass the legislation is the strongest effort yet by Congress to set national regulations governing payments to college athletes for their name, image and likeness and how often they can transfer. It would give the NCAA new authority over those rules and limited antitrust protections to enforce them. The bill is the product of years of Senate negotiations that intensified after a 2025 lawsuit settlement uprooted the college sports landscape by allowing See BILL, page A7

turn nutrients to the soil, help retain moisture, and provide natural habitat for pollinators and other wildlife. There are several ways to participate: • Leave leaves in wooded, landscaped and other natural areas. • Use leaves as mulch in See LEAVES, page A2

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

THURSDAY

10.1.26 #162

2 giant pandas arrive in Atlanta under US-China government agreement Zoo Atlanta becomes only the third U.S. zoo to house giant pandas

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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 Stan Gilliland Photographer BUSINESS David Guy Advertising Manager Chatham News & Record (USPS #101160) is published weekly, 52 weeks a year, by North State Media LLC 303 West Raleigh Street Siler City, NC 27344 POSTMASTER:

By Huizhong Wu The Associated Press BANGKOK — Two giant pandas arrived in Atlanta on Sunday morning as part of an agreement between the Chinese and American governments. Ping Ping and Fu Shuang departed Chengdu in southwestern China early Sunday aboard a dedicated “FedEx Panda Express” Boeing 777 aircraft, officials said. A new agreement between Zoo Atlanta and the China Wildlife Conservation Association makes Atlanta one of three zoos in the U.S. to house giant pandas, along with the San Diego Zoo in California and the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, D.C. “This is a thrilling day for Zoo Atlanta and a historic moment for the City of Atlanta, the state of Georgia, and beyond,” Zoo Atlanta President and CEO Raymond B. King said in a statement. “We are elated to welcome Ping Ping and Fu

“This is a thrilling day for Zoo Atlanta and a historic moment for the City of Atlanta, the state of Georgia, and beyond.” Raymond B. King, Zoo Atlanta president and CEO

Shuang and could not be more excited about sharing that joy with our Members, guests, city, and community in the coming weeks.” Zoo visitors will have to wait awhile to see Ping Ping and Fu Shuang, officials said. The bears will be quarantined for about a month in a biosecure area of the wildlife park’s new giant panda complex. Park officials haven’t confirmed a specific opening date. The pandas’ arrival was announced last Thursday by Chinese President Xi Jinping during a three-day summit with U.S. President Donald Trump. The loan of the pandas was one of the few concrete outcomes

to come out of the state visit, which saw expressions of goodwill between the leaders, but no fixes to any of the long-standing differences between the two countries. Atlanta said farewell to its last pandas in 2024, leaving the zoo without the bears. The new agreement was announced back in April but without any dates. Ping Ping and Fu Shuang will be on loan to Zoo Atlanta for 10 years as part of the agreement. Both pandas were born in 2020 and were kept at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding. Ping Ping, the male, has dark black circles around his eyes, while Fu Shuang, the female, has a forehead that protrudes a bit, according to the Xinhua News Agency. China has long used the pandas as part of its diplomacy globally, deploying the bears in loan programs as expressions of goodwill and letting loan agreements lapse when tensions arise. Xi had said the loan program was an example of “friendship between the Chinese and Americans.”

Send address changes to: Chatham News & Record PO Box 290 Siler City, NC 27344

The “FedEx Panda Express” Boeing 777 aircraft arrives at HartsfieldJackson International Airport in Atlanta on Sunday.

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

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. Gate tickets are $205 for four days or $60-$76 for single days; 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 thePast: Bounce! Party Band 7-9 p.m. The free outdoor concert series continues. 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

Oct. 3-4 Huckleberry Trail Farm Fall Festival Sat. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sun. 1-6 p.m.

CRIME LOG Sept. 21 • Faith Christian Lynch, 24, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine and simple possession of a controlled substance, and other charges. • Juan Diego Pereztzintzun, 25, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and misdemeanor larceny. Sept. 22 • Donald Scott Urey, 62, was arrested for harassing phone call. • James Wesley Norton, 58, was arrested for attempted uttering, attempting to obtain property by false pretenses and forgery of an instrument, and other charges. Sept. 23 • Jose Antonio Gonzalez, 21, was arrested for fict alt title reg card tag, permit operation vehicle no ins and expired or no inspection, and other charges. Sept. 24 • Christina Elizabeth Thomas, 46, was arrested for second-degree trespass. • David Royal Blankenship, 38, was arrested for driving while impaired. • Michael Brian Lewis, 31, was arrested for felony possession of stolen property, felony conspiracy and breaking and entering, and other charges. • Rashard Carmicheal McLaughlin, 39, was arrested for driving while impaired, possession of opn cnt alc psg area and expired or no inspection, and other charges. Sept. 25 • Jacob Aaron Laney, 22, was arrested for felony possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and maintn vehicle dwell place controlled substance, and other charges. • Joey Richard Bass, 25, was arrested for felony conspiracy, felony larceny and identity theft, and other charges. • Michael Deshun Thomas, 27, was arrested for felony possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and fail wear seat belt front seat. Sept. 26 • James Jonathan Green, 21, was arrested for obtaining property by false pretenses and larceny of a motor vehicle. • Joshua Luke Brady, 38, was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine and possession of a controlled substance on prison or jail premises, and other charges. Sept. 27 • Fernando Gomez-Ruiz, 26, was arrested for driving while impaired and driving left of center.

FEDEX VIA AP

LEAVES from page A1 garden beds and around trees. • Mow leaves into lawns to naturally recycle nutrients. • Compost leaves for future use in gardens and landscaping. • Keep leaves out of streets

and storm drains to help protect local waterways. The “Leave Your Leaves” initiative is part of the town’s Climate Action Plan. It contributes to the plan’s greenspace and land use, extreme weather and solid waste categories, according to the town.

Residents can further participate by taking the “Leave Your Leaves” pledge at town hall during regular business hours. Participants can take a “Leave Your Leaves” yard sign. Still, seasonal loose-leaf collection remains available beginning Oct. 12.

A weekend fall festival with a corn maze, hayrides, a pumpkin patch and old-timey games. Adults are $14; ages 3-11, seniors and military are $12. Huckleberry Trail Farm 143 Pleasant Hill Church Road Siler City

Oktoberfest at The Plant Sat. 2 p.m. through Sun. 6 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

Oct. 10 Goldston Main Street Cruise In 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. A free second-Saturday car show — classics, hot rods and race cars — with nearby shops and restaurants open. Downtown Goldston 434 Bellevue Street Goldston

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

Word of Faith religious group leader gets probation in assault case in North Carolina The church said the allegations made to the AP were false and made by “certain former members” out to target the church and that it does not condone abuse. The case was turned over to a special prosecutor after Fenner’s lawyer accused District Attorney Ted Bell of siding with Word of Faith in his handling of the case.

Prosecutors said she led members in choking and beating him to expel “homosexual demons” By Jeffrey Collins The Associated Press A LEADER of a secretive North Carolina religious group was sentenced Monday to two years of probation in a plea deal that dropped a felony kidnapping charge, more than nine years after her trial ended without a verdict. Prosecutors said Word of Faith Fellowship leader Brooke Covington led a group of church members in 2013 who choked and beat a young man for two hours while they prayed to expel “homosexual demons.” Covington, 68, pleaded to two misdemeanor charges of false imprisonment and simple assault Monday by entering an Alford plea, according to court records. It’s technically a guilty plea in which defendants maintain they are innocent while acknowledging prosecutors have enough evidence to convict them at trial. The judge sentenced Covington to 45 days in jail on the false imprisonment charge and 30 days for simple assault, but suspended them so she won’t have to serve the time if she completes her probation. Covington also was ordered to complete 30 hours of community service benefiting children or young adults. Covington’s original case ended in a mistrial after the jury foreman brought his own research into deliberations. Since then, the COVID-19 outbreak, a move to remove the original prosecutor that ended with the suspension of the law license of the attorney making the request, deaths or retirements of lawyers on both sides and handing the case to a new prosecutor in a new jurisdiction all delayed a new trial. Both the new prosecutor and Covington’s lawyer didn’t respond to messages seeking details about Monday’s hearing. Teen says church leaders held him down, beat him Matthew Fenner joined Word of Faith as a teenager in

KATHY KMONICEK / AP PHOTO

Brooke Covington, a member of the Word of Faith Fellowship church in Spindale, leaves a hearing at Rutherford County Courthouse in Rutherfordton on May 19, 2017. 2010 with his mother. He was at a service on the church’s compound in Spindale when members including Covington started what the church called a “blasting” session on him, according to Fenner. Covington said the session was no different than others, and she had witnesses prepared to testify they didn’t see an assault against Fenner. Word of Faith is a nondenominational Protestant church that was founded in 1979 by Sam and Jane Whaley in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains between Charlotte and Asheville. Members consider Jane Whaley a prophet. In 2017, The Associated Press published a series of stories about Word of Faith that detailed former church members’ allegations of abuse. The AP spoke to dozens of former congregants around the world, listened to hours of secretly recorded conversations with church leaders, and reviewed hundreds of pages of law enforcement, court and child welfare documents. Church denies abuse, says it is targeted by former members Whaley has denied that she or other church leaders ever abused Word of Faith members and said that any discipline would be protected by the Constitution’s freedom of religion tenet.

Allegations against prosecutor lead to suspension of law license Attorney Andrew LaBreche said Bell didn’t investigate new evidence or witnesses and made a deal to drop the felony kidnapping charge against Covington. Bell provided text messages and other evidence he refused to talk to Word of Faith members when they tried to steer conversations toward the assault cases. Superior Court Judge William Stetzer not only denied LaBreche’s request to remove the prosecutor, but in his order said LaBreche’s “repeated acts of dishonesty and the significant harm to the legal profession” led the judge to suspend his law license for three years. He also awarded Bell legal fees. LaBreche is appealing the ruling, and his suspension has been delayed until his case can be heard. Associated Press covered Word of Faith extensively Word of Faith had about 700 members in North Carolina a decade ago, but a sworn statement from a former church leader said membership had now dwindled to about 300 to 400 people. The AP reported that the church controlled almost every aspect of their members’ lives, including who they married, what subjects they studied in school and whether they could go to college. Members were regularly slapped, choked and thrown to the floor during high-decibel group prayer. The AP investigation also found that the church and its hundreds of followers controlled local law enforcement and social services, preventing fair investigations.

Church News SILER CITY PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 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!

PIPELINE from page A1 Chair Amanda Robertson. Initially, the board planned to adopt an amendment to its zoning ordinance in order to implement a special use permit requirement for the development of natural gas pipelines, which would bar any action without commissioner approval, however, legal counsel has advised the board against such action. “Enbridge says the county does not have the authority to adopt a special use permit requirement and reserves its rights to challenge the amendment,” said county attorney Emily Meeker. “Enbridge is willing to sue the county and will seek its attorney fees if the county does not prevail.” According to Meeker, those legal fees would be estimated to be well over $1 million. “Because of existing state law, I believe the county is unlikely to prevail in a lawsuit brought by Enbridge,” Meeker said. As a result, the board voted to table the item until its Oct. 19 meeting in order to allow the planning board to make adjustments to the proposed text amendments to remove the requirement of a spe-

cial use permit for natural gas pipelines. “I’m not comfortable with us taking on legal action that we believe already to be doomed,” said board member Karen Howard. “It should go without saying that neither this board nor the community of Chatham are in the habit of capitulating to bullies, and I hope that we will act accordingly. This is a time where we’re going to need the entire community gathered in support and working toward the same goal.” As a special use permit hearing would have required unbiased judgment from the commissioners, any outspoken opinions would have complicated their positions should that have been the approach they decided to move forward with. “I think a lot of our residents were expecting us to be vocal from the very beginning,” said Vice Chair Franklin Gomez Flores. “We explored avenues to address the situation to alleviate concerns, and I hope you all understand why we’ve had to be a little quiet in this situation, but we are exploring what will be the best approach to address this.” The Chatham County Board of Commissioners will next meet Oct. 19.

THE MOST WICKED TIMES! Bible Study: Hebrews 12:12-29 Church of Living Water; Pastor: James Mitchell. God’s Word is going out to thousands—two newspapers and hundreds from our phones. Praise God! But if you would rather not receive the Word, just block the number. I’m thankful to be able to get God’s Word out. I’m praying for all your needs because I love all souls! We are living in the most wicked times we’ve ever seen. God’s born-again, God’s called preachers; we must get the truth out! Beware, my Black, Latino, Hispanic, White brothers and sisters. Satan has taken over the Democrat Socialist Party. If they get back in power this November, it ZLOO EH KDUG IRU 3UHVLGHQW 7UXPS WR ¿QLVK ¿[LQJ WKH PHVV WKDW 2EDPD Biden, Harris, and the Democrats created in America. They want to abolish the Senate, the Electoral College, defund the Department of War, abolish the police and prison system, abolish ICE and Border 3DWURO H[WHQG IXOO YRWLQJ ULJKWV WR QRQ FLWL]HQV DQG JUDQW DPQHVW\ WR all immigrants. If these Socialist/Communist/Islamic politicians ever JDLQ FRQWURO WKH 86$ ZLOO IDOO 9LFH 3UHVLGHQW 9DQFH DQG 'U 2] DUH uncovering unbelievable fraud, waste, and abuse. Stand up for our ,&( RI¿FHUV ZKR DUH EHLQJ KDUDVVHG IRU UHPRYLQJ LOOHJDO DOLHQV DQG criminals. The Democrats have become the party protecting criminals. I pray blinded minds will be opened to see the consequences if these evil people get into power, in Jesus’ name! Heavenly Father, open blinded minds to the lying, fake news media, in Jesus’ name! Brothers and sisters, keep all sin under the blood of God’s mercy and grace. Don’t fall away, for great is your reward!

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

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

COLUMN | ANDREW TAYLOR-TROUTMAN

Francis of Assisi: the man and the myth He founded a monastic order devoted to peace, charity and compassion in a time of opulence and power in the Roman Catholic Church.

CHRISTIAN OR OTHERWISE, religious or not, you’ve probably recognized Francis of Assisi as a garden statue, usually depicted with a bird or two on his shoulders and perhaps a fawn nuzzling his monk robes. Legends abound around this man. They say Francis could talk to the birds and animals of the wood. They say he would awake in the morning and spin until he became dizzy and fell down. He would then set off in whatever direction he faced upon getting to his feet and trust that God would provide his food. They say he would pick up a stick and “play” his arm as if it were a violin. He would begin to dance and then real music, as beautiful as had ever been heard, would magically fill the air. I don’t know if any of these stories are factually true, of course. But I believe sacred music pulses in all of us and that everything that lives is holy. What’s more, from what we know of the historical life of the real man, I admire Francis’ dedication to his faith. Raised in a wealthy family, he became a soldier and joined the Crusades to the Holy Land. Yet God showed him a vision that broke his heart about the suffering caused by warfare. Francis quit the military, sold everything he owned, donated the funds to the poor and began a life as a wandering

teacher, much like the Christ, to whom he professed his allegiance. He founded a monastic order devoted to peace, charity and compassion in a time of opulence and power in the Roman Catholic Church. In particular, Francis believed in reconciliation across cultures and religions. His example and beliefs are still needed in our world. I worship at Chapel in the Pines Presbyterian Church, which does not observe a liturgical calendar of the saints. But we make an exception for Francis. This Sunday, Oct. 4, marks his feast day, and we will have a blessing of the animals in our parking lot. You are invited to attend with your pet. We will have snacks for all creatures, great and small. My favorite legend is that Francis was teaching the woodland creatures about the sacraments of the church. One of the squirrels rushed off to her hollow and returned bearing acorns and feathers. Francis smiled. “Yes, dear, you understand. Everything imparts God’s grace.” 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

Reflections on a chunk of time We knew he had heart disease, had survived several bypass surgeries but probably eventually he would cross the Great Divide because of it. We just didn’t think it would be that day.

Thirty years ago, the weather was cool that Oct. 2. Autumn had arrived with its calling card. The winds were brisk. Leaves were changing colors and falling to the ground. There were little sticks and twigs on the yard, courtesy of the breezes. My father had finished his breakfast, slipped on his windbreaker and went outside to watch some workers trim trees in his yard. My mother, not only his bride of 61 years but also his caregiver and nurse since his numerous health problems had arisen, called out the kitchen window to him to come inside and “wait till it warms up before you go out.” He complied with her request (which he most often did), came into the living room and settled into his favorite chair in the corner. Shortly afterward, the telephone rang, and after a couple of rings, she called to him from a back room, “Are you going to get that?” In those days before cellphones, he kept the cordless one with him when he was in the house. When he didn’t answer, she went into the living room and found him in his chair. We knew he had heart disease, had survived several bypass surgeries but probably eventually he would cross the Great Divide because of it. We just didn’t think it would be that day. It took a while for my family to find me. Shirley was in her classroom at Chatham Central trying to run me down on the phone. Our son was in the 11th grade. Our daughter was in her freshman year in college. That Thursday morning, I dawdled at my house after getting the paper out the day before and then had eased down to Rufus’ Restaurant for a biscuit before slowly meandering through southwest Chatham on my way to his house just east of the courthouse. When I got there, it was late morning and the driveway and yard were full of cars. “They’ve got lots of company,” I thought, not really giving any of that a second thought. Even when I went into the house and found it full of neighbors, my brain still was in neutral. And when the mother of a longtime

friend got off the phone in the hall after talking with my mama at the hospital, she looked at me and said, “I’m sorry to tell you he’s gone.” Honest to goodness, for a few seconds I thought, “Gone where?” Then I figured it out. The next few days were a blur. We did what we had to do. A brother and his family f lew in from New Hampshire; the other came from a nearby town. There were f lowers and family and friends and food, all the stuff that goes with a traditional Southern funeral. Then after the crowds left, it was on to a new normal. I have thought about him a lot lately, 34 years since he passed on. And I wondered and marveled. I wondered what he would be like today, other than be 115 if he were still here, and what he would think about all that’s going on in the world. I wondered how he would like not only his grown grandchildren but also the great-grandchildren that had been produced. I think I know the answer to that thought. And I marveled … about where did 34 years go? Wherever they went, they went in a hurry. I think I’ve learned some things since then. I’ve learned life is a great gift from the Master Giver and what we do with it is our gift to Him. I’ve learned life is fragile, that we should take care of it and enjoy it and share it with other folks. I’ve learned influence lasts a long time; I catch myself saying some of the things he said to my brothers and me as now I pass them along to my grown children and to the eight grands they’ve produced. And I’ve learned I still miss him. And if you still have yours, be good and kind to him. And if your growing up years with your father might have left something to be desired and you still have him, be the one to break the ice, if you can and will, and repair any bridges that might keep things apart. One day, you might wish you could and you won’t be able to. Did I mention that I still miss him? Bob Wachs is a native of Chatham County and emeritus editor at Chatham News & Record. He serves as pastor of Bear Creek Baptist Church.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

COLUMN | JAN HUTTON

COLUMN

No such thing as a static life (is there?)

What had I offered that stayed with this man for so many years? I’d love to remember.

LONG STORY SHORT, I served as a hospice social worker, 32 years ago, in Los Angeles. The now-grown grandson of one of my hospice patients tracked me down to North Carolina 10 years ago. (Thank heavens for eternal email addresses!) He wanted to offer belated thanks (courtesy of his then-teenage self) for the sense of peace I shared with a very stressed young man during his grandmother‘s last days. Twenty-two years ago! Holy moly. (Still not sure what that phrase means) I had no memory of this now-middle-aged man, his late grandmother, his family situation or even my interventions. None. Just gone. What had I offered that stayed with this man for so many years? I’d love to remember. For the future. A touchstone. Sure. A real-live recipe for finding peace. Done deal! What I remembered, however, is this reality:

“The definitions of peace, the very idea of peace has to be invented, and invented again.” — Maxine Hong Kingston I’m wholeheartedly grateful for being contacted by this man. On the other hand, there ain’t no recipes for living a life. (I so wish.) As a habitué of our human species’ ups, downs, beauty, hypocrisy, loving and creativity, I’ll keep cranking along, and yes, inventively. Y’all gonna join me? How about some inspiration for those ongoing unknowns in our lives that continue to push us toward our next step into wholeness? “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” — Mary Oliver Jan Hutton, a resident of Chatham County and retired hospice social worker, lives life with heart and humor.

COLUMN | LARRY ELDER

Trump bans media from the White House — this is why he’s angry

His bitterness is more than justified.

WHY DID PRESIDENT Donald Trump ban CNN, MS NOW and Politico from the White House? The better question is: What took so long? But Trump made his point. The man is angry at the blatantly biased and Trump-despising legacy media. He blames them for his poor poll numbers. His bitterness is more than justified. The economy is far better than reported. The Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow model currently estimates third-quarter growth at an annualized rate of approximately 5.1%, up from an earlier estimate of 4.4%. And even at today’s elevated gasoline prices, the cost of gas as a percentage of income remains far smaller than during earlier price shocks. Inflation is lower than the Biden average. The official poverty rate is the lowest on record. The stock market has been up, and 401(k)s are fatter. A recent survey of CEOs finds confidence in the economy higher than it’s been in years — with 73% expecting hiring to remain the same or to be increased. Crime is down. The deportation of criminal illegal aliens, argues the Trump administration, is likely a contributing factor. The administration says its military campaign has pushed Iran further away from developing a nuclear weapon. Military recruitment is up. DEI is in retreat. NATO allies are finally upping defense spending as a percentage of their GDP, after former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama unsuccessfully urged it to do so. There’s a lot of good news. This stands in stark contrast with the breathless drum-beating coverage of the Russia-Trump collusion hoax, the first and biggest media-clamped weight on Trump’s ankle. And when the hoax unraveled — and the bad actors were exposed — the media was far less interested. Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton’s campaign and the Democratic National Committee funded the opposition research that produced the discredited Steele dossier. Obama was later briefed on intelligence alleging that Clinton had approved a plan to tie Trump to Russia and divert attention from her email controversy. The Washington Post, not exactly pro-Trump, in 2017, wrote: “The Hillary Clinton campaign and the Democratic National Committee helped fund research that resulted in a now-famous dossier containing allegations about Trump’s connections to Russia and possible coordination between his campaign and the Kremlin, people familiar with the matter said.” The collusion probe began before the

dossier, but the dossier later gave the investigation a lot of fuel, particularly for the Carter Page FISA surveillance applications. According to documents released by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, preelection intelligence reports emphasized Russia’s efforts to disrupt the election and undermine confidence in the democratic process without concluding that Moscow’s objective was to elect Trump. After Trump’s unexpected victory, however, Obama ordered a new assessment. This time it concluded Putin had developed a preference for Trump and wanted him to win. The Media Research Center said 92% of the evaluative coverage of Trump 2.0 during his first 100 days by ABC’s “World News Tonight,” the “CBS Evening News” and “NBC Nightly News” was negative. And much of this was after Trump closed the southern border, when for years the Biden administration claimed it was closed. During the Biden administration when more than 2.75 million people had entered the country illegally during the 12 months ending September 2022, a December 2022 Harvard CAPS-Harris Poll of registered voters asked, “How many border crossings by illegal immigrants do you think are occurring each year?” Fifty-five percent estimated 500,000 or fewer, and the largest group of voters believed annual illegal border crossings numbered between 100,000 and 250,000. Ill-informed? It never ends. Nicolle Wallace, an MS NOW host, last week played an excerpt of Vice President JD Vance imploring voters to keep the Republican congressional majorities. Wallace, laughing, then said, “What I love is, like, give us two more years of rounding and — rounding up and shooting Americans in the streets, stealing all of your money and destroying the economy. Nobody wants that.” It boggles the mind how much time the media spend on the inconsequential — such as Trump attaching his name to the Kennedy Center — compared with how little they spend examining how close Iran came to producing enough weapons-grade uranium for a nuclear bomb. Words fail. Trump fumes. Understandably so. His ban may not survive a court challenge. But the record of overwhelmingly negative media coverage remains open for all to see. Larry Elder is a bestselling author and nationally syndicated radio talk show host. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com).

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DAVID HARSANYI

What El-Sayed won’t say about Iran tells Michigan everything DURING A RECENT town hall, a University of Michigan student named Iman Dashti confronted the Democratic Party’s Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed regarding his habitual whitewashing and rationalization of Islamic terrorism. Dashti, who says his family is a victim of the Iranian regime’s theocratic persecution, pressed the candidate numerous times to denounce one of the world’s most odious tyrannies. Did El-Sayed regret not speaking out against the tyrannical clerics of Iran? Would he now renounce those who held vigils supporting the mass murderer Ayatollah Ali Khamenei? Would he “unequivocally” condemn the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps — a group that’s not only tortured, imprisoned and killed tens of thousands of Iranian civilians in the past year but is responsible for the murder of hundreds of Americans? The answer was no, no and no. El-Sayed wouldn’t. Rather, the candidate offered a platitudinous word salad on how the United States should avoid becoming “the world’s policeman” and how we can still stand “in solidarity with freedom and democracy movements.” Dashti didn’t ask El-Sayed about regime change in Iran. He asked the candidate to offer a condemnation of some of the most odious characters in the world. El-Sayed simply couldn’t do it. And it is important to ask why. There’s nothing inherently wrong with arguing that the U.S. shouldn’t be the world’s policeman. But we already know that El-Sayed has no qualms demanding that Americans act like the police. Otherwise, why would he demand the Trump administration arrest the elected prime minister of our ally Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, at the behest of an international “court” helmed by activists from France, Benin and Slovenia? And El-Sayed’s refusal to speak on the death of Ayatollah Khamenei, killed in a joint American-Israeli air strike, had absolutely nothing to do with an aversion to the U.S. meddling abroad. We know this from leaked audio in which the candidate instructed his staff not to comment on the death of the medieval Islamic Twelver radical who led his nation in chants of “Death to America” because “there are a lot of people in Dearborn who are sad today.” Judging from the preponderance of evidence, El-Sayed was almost surely sad himself. El-Sayed says he opposes foreign entanglements. But while he not only wants to cut off U.S. aid to Israel but also stop any sales of military equipment, even defensive ones, he supports military aid to Ukraine. The Senate candidate maintains the difference is that, unlike the Jewish state, Ukraine was attacked by Russia, who had broken “international law.” Which means that El-Sayed doesn’t consider the murder of more than 1,200 Israeli men, women and children against “international law.” Nor does he consider the launching of more than 350 ballistic missiles at Israel by Iran — nearly two years before Operation Epic Fury was initiated — a belligerent act of war. It makes sense. The first instinct of El-Sayed, who once protested an appearance by reformed terrorists who had converted to Christianity, when a would-be Hezbollah terrorist attempted to slaughter a school filled with 4- and 5-year-old Jewish children was “hurt people hurt people.” It is no surprise that this Senate candidate would invite Hasan Piker, the man who hasn’t run across an Islamic terrorist group or murderous communist he didn’t feel compelled to defend, to campaign with him. These days, El-Sayed keeps referring to Piker as a “Twitch streamer in California” to gaslight journalists who ask him about the relationship. But if Piker was an irrelevant out-of-state social media personality, why did El-Sayed feel compelled to campaign on numerous occasions? Occam’s razor tells us that El-Sayed feels a connection, even holds similar views, to a man who believes the U.S. deserved 9/11. El-Sayed also believes, at best, that Western nations are as evil or worse than jihadists. That moral equivalence was on display in a now-deleted 2021 tweet commemorating 9/11. “Today, I mourn the 3K lives, 6K injuries, & infrastructural devastation in NYC perpetuated ignorantly in the name of my faith,” El-Sayed tweeted before adding, “Tomorrow, I’ll mourn ~1M lives, millions of injuries, & infrastructural devastation in 3 countries, perpetuated ignorantly in the name of my country.” It is clear from that comment that El-Sayed believes we are far worse than the Islamist extremists of the Middle East. In a healthier era, any one of these relationships would have sunk a candidacy. At this point, Michigan voters are well aware of El-Sayed’s radicalism, and yet he looks poised to become our first Islamist senator. David Harsanyi is a senior writer at the Washington Examiner. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

Democrats keep coming to South Carolina to stump for midterm candidates. It’s all about 2028 Midterm stops provide the cover to test 2028 viability with key South Carolina voters By Meg Kinnard The Associated Press COLUMBIA, S.C. — On paper, South Carolina might be an odd place for Democrats to converge to campaign for midterm candidates. Republicans dominate state politics, and there’s slim chance of that changing this year. But South Carolina is also the first state in Democrats’ next presidential nominating process, so White House hopefuls are looking for any excuse they can find to pop over. In the next few weeks, five Democrats who are believed to be mulling 2028 campaigns — California Rep. Ro Khanna, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and longtime Democratic politico Rahm Emanuel — will be stumping here. That’s on top of recent visits from former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, California Gov. Gavin Newsom, Arizona Sen. Ruben Gallego, New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore. The travel itineraries show that even though there are five weeks until the midterms, the

AP PHOTO

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, from left, Rahm Emanuel, Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker are all seemingly eyeing a presidential run. next presidential cycle is already underway. Khanna returns to South Carolina for several days starting Thursday. Around the same time, Beshear will stump with candidates in Orangeburg and Charleston, and he’ll discuss his new book with Rep. Jim Clyburn, a longtime Democratic kingmaker. There’s overlap with Kelly, who starts a two-day swing on Friday and plans to campaign for candidates such as Senate nominee Annie Andrews. A week later, Pritzker is set to headline a fundraising dinner for the local NAACP. And just days before early voting kicks off Oct. 13, Emanuel — the former congressman,

White House chief of staff to President Barack Obama, Chicago mayor and U.S. ambassador to Japan — has a packed South Carolina schedule. He’s talking to students on several college campuses and appearing with candidates including gubernatorial nominee Jermaine Johnson. Emanuel’s advisers said he will also meet with dozens of pastors, as well as participate in a community conversation with some parishioners affected by the deadly 2015 shooting at Mother Emanuel AME in Charleston. South Carolina has always been early in the primary calendar for both parties, but Democrats recently solidified

their place at the front of the line. Bre Maxwell, a Democratic National Committee member from the state, said visiting allows candidates to see how their pitch lands with key voters. “They’re doing it under the guise of, ‘Hey, I’m gonna come to South Carolina, help support this candidate,’ while also having one-off meetings with people to build for what they possibly may do in ’28,” Maxwell said. “‘How much support do I have, how many people like me, how many people don’t like me?’” One person who isn’t due to visit soon is former Vice President Kamala Harris. She hasn’t been to South Carolina since April, when she participated in a party fundraiser alongside a

SpaceX’s Starship launches into orbit, delivers payload for first time The successful deployment of advanced satellites advances the path to lunar certification

By Marcia Dunn The Associated Press SPACEX LAUNCHED its enormous Starship into orbit for the first time Monday and successfully delivered the most advanced Starlinks yet, but cut the flight short to ensure safety. The spacecraft reentered over the Pacific and splashed down north of Hawaii three hours after blasting off from Texas. The company had been aiming for a 10-hour flight, spanning six full laps around Earth, to prove its readiness for NASA’s Artemis moon program. Starship tipped over and erupted in flames upon splashdown, a dramatic (and intentional) end to the mission. Founder Elon Musk’s Starship almost didn’t make it to orbit when one of its engines shut

down too soon. But with everything else working well and the bad engine no longer needed, flight controllers decided after several tense minutes to proceed as planned. “Starship is orbital,” Mission Control announced to cheers. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman congratulated SpaceX on reaching orbit and “managing every step in a safe, responsible and especially inspirational way.” Rocket carries 26 of Musk’s most advanced Starlink satellites Musk’s showpiece rocket — the biggest and most powerful ever built — carried 26 of the latest Starlink satellites to join the 11,000 older models already providing internet service. They popped out of the spacecraft one by one, drawing more cheers from the SpaceX crowds looking on from the launch site at Starbase, Texas. The decision to end the flight early came soon afterward. No reason was provided.

“That’s why we’re being extremely cautious here.” Elon Musk, SpaceX founder It was Starship’s 14th full-scale launch from Texas’ southern tip in three years. The earlier test flights ventured no farther than the Indian Ocean halfway around the world, often crashing in flames and briefly skimming space. This time, SpaceX was intent on circling the globe from an altitude of 170 miles — not just once but six times over almost 10 hours, ending with a Pacific splashdown near Chile. While Starship achieved the proper orbit zipping along at 17,500 mph, flight controllers opted to play it safe and bring it back several hours sooner, after just a couple laps. The first-stage booster was never meant to return to the Starbase launch site either, instead dropping into the Gulf of Mexico within minutes of the

morning liftoff. SpaceX wants to ensure that everything works before flying Starship back to Starbase. If the spacecraft breaks apart over land and rains debris onto people, “our popularity would diminish very rapidly,” Musk said at a business summit earlier this month. “That’s why we’re being extremely cautious here.” Depending on the findings from Monday’s orbital debut, the next Starship could return to the launch pad with giant mechanical arms grabbing the hovering spacecraft. If the catch works — Musk gives it even or slightly better odds — then SpaceX will refly the spacecraft by year’s end or early next year. The 407-foot rocket was designed from the start to be fully reusable — a key to lowering launch costs. SpaceX managed to salvage the last Starship from the Indian Ocean in July. Engineers modified the newly launched Starship’s heat shield based on hands-on inspections from the recovered spacecraft, which is being tugged back to Starbase.

tour for her book recounting the whirlwind 2024 presidential campaign. But Harris’ deep relations in the state mean she doesn’t need to come as early or as often as others, who are still gaining name recognition. Republicans’ nominating process will still start with the Iowa caucuses, but South Carolina will hold the party’s first southern primary. With President Donald Trump constitutionally prohibited from running for a third term, other Republicans are starting to test the waters. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz came to stump with Attorney General Alan Wilson before he won the party’s nomination for governor.

SpaceX wants Starship certified for orbital flight SpaceX is pressing hard to certify Starship for orbital flight, a vital step toward moon and Mars travel. NASA’s Artemis III mission is coming up as soon as next summer, a triple-launch docking exercise in orbit around Earth between an Orion capsule full of astronauts and competing lunar landers. Jeff Bezos’ Blue Moon will blast off first, then Orion — which will close in for a linkup — then Musk’s Starship for a docking with Orion once Blue Moon is unleashed. The next mission — Artemis IV slated for no sooner than 2028 — would have astronauts landing on the moon in either Blue Moon or Starship, whichever is ready first. Subsequent moonshots will alternate between the two billionaires’ landers. Musk originally developed Starship for Mars, intending to launch scores of them with the red planet’s first settlers. For now, he plans to focus on the moon and use Starship to haul satellites into orbit by the truckload, phasing out the company’s frailer Falcon 9 rocket within several years. A second Starship launch site is nearing completion at Florida’s Kennedy Space Center and a third is planned for Louisiana.

COURTESY SPACEX

Starship takes off for its first orbital flight from Starbase, Texas on Monday morning.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

Trump administration lowers fuel economy requirements The rule prioritizes affordability for consumers By Alexa St. John and Anne D’Innocenzio The Associated Press DETROIT — The Trump administration on Monday released new fuel economy standards that relax regulatory requirements for automakers to control pollution from gasoline-powered cars and light trucks. The new rules were released shortly after President Donald Trump rejected an Iranian proposal to open the Strait of Hormuz, sending oil prices soaring. The change furthers Trump’s promise to revoke policies that encouraged or created incentives for the production of electric vehicles and, ultimately, will expose Americans to more planet-warming pollution from vehicles. Mileage standards, known as Corporate Average Fuel Economy, or CAFE, requirements, have been implemented since the 1970s energy crisis and set out how far new vehicles need to travel on a gallon of gasoline. Over time, automakers have gradually improved their vehicles’ average efficiency. The Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimated that the finalized standards would correspond to a combined industry fleetwide average of roughly 34.9 miles per gallon for passenger cars and light trucks in the 2031 model year. That’s up from 30.1 miles per gallon for model year 2024 but down from a projected 50.4 miles per gallon in 2031 under rules put in place by the Biden administration. “Thanks to President Trump’s leadership, we have finally ended the illegal mandate that forced automakers to produce more expensive electric vehicles that American families didn’t want,” Secretary of

EVAN VUCCI / AP PHOTO

President Donald Trump speaks during an event on fuel economy standards in the Oval Office of the White House in December 2025. Transportation Sean Duffy said in a statement touting vehicle affordability. NHTSA had projected last December that the new standards would hover at roughly 34.5 miles per gallon. The news comes amid ongoing tensions as the war in Iran persists, with Trump refusing a deal with Iran to open the Strait as recently as Saturday, impacting the world’s oil supply. Environmental groups concerned over rollback News of the revised standards immediately drew rebukes from environmentalists. The DOT said Monday that the rule would cut yearly oil consumption in 2050 by about 1.3 billion barrels as compared to yearly oil consumption in 2024. But when the 2024 standards went into effect, NHTSA estimated they would save 14 billion gallons of gasoline from being burned by 2050. The agency also said that while new fuel-efficient vehicles cost more up front, savings on gasoline over the lifetime of the car or truck would more than make up for that. Environmental groups esti-

Since taking office, Trump has also pulled back auto tailpipe emissions rules, repealed fines for automakers that do not meet federal mileage standards and terminated consumer credits of up to $7,500 for EV purchases. The president has repeatedly pledged to end what he calls an EV “mandate,” referring to former President Joe Biden’s target that half of all new vehicle sales be electric by 2030. No federal policy has mandated auto companies to sell EVs. According to data from Cox Automotive, EVs accounted for 5.7% of total new-vehicle sales in August, down from 7.4% for all of 2025. Katherine García, director of the Sierra Club’s Clean Transportation for All campaign, vowed the environmental group would fight the rule. “Less fuel-efficient cars mean more gas burned, spending more at the pump, and dirtier air in our communities,” Garcia wrote in a statement. State of auto industry

“Less fuel-efficient cars mean more gas burned, spending more at the pump, and dirtier air in our communities.” Katherine García, Sierra Club mate now, without stricter standards, cars could produce 22,111 more tons of carbon dioxide per year than under the Biden-era rules in 2035. The rule also translates to an extra 90 tons a year of deadly soot particles and 4,870 additional tons a year of smog components such as nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds emitted into the air in coming years, experts say. Transportation already accounts for much of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions that warm the planet; 28% as of the last estimate in 2022. It “ignores the feasibility of clean technology and the millions of fuel-efficient cars already on the road,” Dan Becker, director of the Center for Biological Diversity’s Safe Climate Transport Campaign, said of the rule.

Automakers and industry groups have said the new rules will increase Americans’ access to the full range of gasoline vehicles they need and can afford. “NHTSA made the right call to better align fuel economy standards with the law and current market conditions,” John Bozzella, president and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation, which represents the domestic auto industry, said in a statement. He said the previous standards “effectively required a switchover to electric vehicles that was out of step with market realities and customer demand. Today’s final rule is an appropriate course correction.” “What the industry needs is long-term regulatory stability that includes balanced, durable and achievable fuel economy standards that continue to reduce emissions and improve fuel economy,” Bozzella added. “This is the formula for preserving consumer vehicle choice and keeping the U.S. auto industry globally competitive.” A spokesperson for Ford Motor Company, maker of the top-selling pickup truck, the F-150, said: “We appreciate Secretary Duffy and the Adminis-

BILL from page A1 colleges to pay their players. The legislation, which would still have to pass the House, would codify the settlement into law but also establish new guardrails around the system in an attempt to rein in the runaway costs for colleges. “It would be nice if college sports could somehow magically fix itself, but this is a matter of law, federal law, and only Congress can fix it,” said Senate Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas), who negotiated the bill with the top Democrat on the panel, Washington Sen. Maria Cantwell. President Donald Trump praised the bill in a social media post after the late-night passage. “This is a really big deal,” he said. “It will not only save college sports, it will save the colleges themselves.” The bill’s backers — more than 70 senators from both parties — say it aims to curtail constant litigation and uncertainty across college sports for athletes, schools and fans. It would also give hundreds of thousands of athletes new health and labor protections. But critics say the bill doesn’t do enough to protect athletes or curtail the enormous sums of money flowing to coaches, colleges and conferences. “This is a bill that essentially ensconces a system of exploitation, and it doesn’t fix the broader problems,” said Connecticut Sen. Chris Murphy, a Democrat who has worked with labor and civil rights groups to rally opposition to the bill. The bill’s future is still unclear. It could face an uphill battle in the House, which failed repeatedly over the last year to get a different version to the floor and is in recess until after the November elections. Lawmakers will have to start over in the next Congress if the bill doesn’t pass both chambers by the end of the year.

Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), left, speaks as Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) listens during a news conference on Capitol Hill on Sept. 14 in Washington, D.C.

MARIAM ZUHAIB / AP PHOTO

Bill addresses skyrocketing spending, unlimited transfers College sports have been reeling in the wake of the 2025 court settlement allowing colleges to directly pay players for their name, image and likeness. The fallout has reshaped the industry and led to football roster payrolls that can exceed $40 million. The bill would codify the court settlement, including a revenue cap that allows schools to share up to $21.5 million in revenue with their players. The legislation would more than double that amount for some schools, allowing up to an additional $27.5 million in payments through a retention fund — a change that helped win the support of the two largest conferences, the Big Ten and Southeastern Conference. To help schools raise more revenue, the bill would give schools and conferences the option of pooling their TV media rights. The legislation also aims to stabilize the NCAA transfer portal that has led to players constantly switching teams. It would restrict player transfers

to one “free” move over five years without sitting out a year, with some exceptions, and also would restrict players to five years of total eligibility. The proposed eligibility limit comes amid backlash to schools that have increasingly pushed boundaries, including LSU’s now-canceled plans to place players on the roster who had participated in NFL training camps. “That was probably like a big lamp for some people who saw it and said, ‘Oh my God, this is so out of control,’” Cantwell said in a recent interview with The Associated Press. The bill also would restrict coaches from leaving their schools during the season, force schools that want to switch conferences to spend three years as an independent and prevent conferences from growing larger than 20 programs — an effort to prevent so-called “superleagues” from taking over sports. A last-minute amendment proposed by Florida Sen. Ashley Moody raised that cap from 19 in the original legislation. The vote was delayed several hours Monday as senators negotiated Moody’s amendment

and others that were eventually adopted, including a provision to make it easier for athletes to sue over sexual assault and a requirement to disclose foreign financing. The Senate rejected an amendment by Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) that would have put limits on ticket prices for fans and two by Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) that would have capped coaches’ salaries at $5 million a year and increased compensation for athletes who have catastrophic injuries. Critics say it wouldn’t do enough to help athletes The legislation includes new protections for athletes, including caps on agent fees and guarantees for health insurance and scholarships. It would also require schools to maintain a minimum number of sports and roster spots — an effort to ensure that women’s and Olympic sports are not cut in favor of football, basketball and other sports that generate more revenue. Still, some Democrats say it wouldn’t do enough to limit the big money in college sports.

tration’s work to align regulations with market realities. As we evaluate the final rule’s full impact on our business, we’ll continue working with the Administration to build a strong American auto industry.” A General Motors spokesperson said in a statement the company supports the goals of the rule “and its intention to better align fuel economy standards with market realities.” Stellantis also welcomed the changes. “These standards will allow us to offer our customers the freedom to choose from a range of vehicles and powertrains that meet their needs, from brands they love and trust,” a Stellantis spokesperson said in a statement. Trump wrote on his Truth Social media account Saturday that the less stringent mileage requirements would “take the waste out of building cars in America” and save families “thousands on a new, beautiful and safe car,” while boosting auto production in the U.S. The DOT reiterated Monday that the changes will cut the average cost of a new vehicle by $1,300, and save Americans $138 billion over the next five years. Americans, however, are spending more on gas as Washington’s war with Iran disrupts the global flow of fuel; gasoline prices averaged $4.47 on Monday, according to the AAA motor club, up from $3.13 a year ago. The rising cost of oil weighed on U.S. stocks to start the week. “Trump is tanking sensible mile per gallon standards at the worst possible time for consumers, who are getting hit with sky-high prices at the pump,” the Center for Biological Diversity’s Becker said. “Consumers will pay the price for these reckless rollbacks while Trump’s Big Oil and Big Auto buddies reap the short-term profits.” Experts have also said that less stringent rules do not necessarily translate to more consumer purchases of new vehicles that may have more safety features. The average new car in America sold for $50,089 in August, crossing over the $50,000 line for the first time since last December, according to Kelley Blue Book data.

The legislation “places a cap on the students’ cut of the revenues, but there are no caps on coaches’ salaries or on the size of donations to athletic programs,” Murphy said last week. Groups like the NAACP, Congressional Black Caucus and AFL-CIO have also opposed the bill, in part, because it leaves unresolved whether athletes should be considered employees with the ability to collectively bargain. All four black Democrats in the Senate — Booker, Raphael Warnock of Georgia, Lisa Blunt Rochester of Delaware and Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland — have opposed the bill. Booker, who played football at Stanford in the late 1980s on a scholarship, noted the “outsized role” that black athletes play in college sports. He said it wasn’t until college athletes were able to begin to win cases in court that the power started to shift, “and now the NCAA is coming here to the United States Senate, asking for sweeping powers” to exempt antitrust laws. “We know who this bill is protecting,” Booker said. House passage uncertain Despite strong bipartisan support in the Senate, the bill faces a murky path in the House. House lawmakers won’t return to Washington, D.C., until mid-November, after the elections. And it’s unclear what will be on Republican leaders’ agenda in the chaotic last few weeks of the session. Pressure from Trump could help push the bill to passage. But some House Republicans have insisted on language explicitly stating that athletes are not employees, which the Senate bill does not have — a key concession to Cantwell to win enough Democratic support. After the bill’s passage, Cruz said it is his hope “that we see in the House the same thing we saw in the Senate: a big bipartisan vote.”

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

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On Monday, October 12, 2026, at 6:00 pm, the Pittsboro Board of Commissioners will hold the following legislative public hearing in person at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center at 1192 Hwy 64 Business West, Pittsboro: PB-25-606 – Chatham Habitat for Humanity is requesting to subdivide approximately 25.91 acres located on two (2) parcels (PIDs: 7769 & 91558) into 72 single-family residential attached units (all townhomes) through a Major Subdivision Preliminary Plat. The site is located along I.E. Taylor Rd and Roberts St, north of Roberson Creek and south of East St. The hearings will be held in person. The public can also watch the hearings live on the Town’s YouTube channel at https:// www.youtube.com/@townofpittsboronc/ streams. Members of the public must attend in person if they wish to speak at the hearing. Contact the Town Clerk, Carrie Bailey, by 4 pm on October 12, 2026, with written comments or to sign up to speak at the legislative hearing. You can contact Carrie Bailey at cbailey@pittsboronc.gov, (919) 542-4621 ext. 1104, or PO Box 759, Pittsboro, NC 27312.

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 abovenamed 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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NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000525-180 The undersigned MARK BAXTER, having qualified on the 15TH Day of SEPTEMBER 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of BARBARA LUDWIG, deceased, of Chatham County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms Here’s the information you requested on Dental insurance and corporations having claims against FIRST-CLASS MAIL 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. MARK BAXTER, EXECUTOR 812 KEITH ROAD WAKE FOREST, NC 27587 Run dates: S24,O1,8,15P O

Product not available in all states. Includes the Participating Providers and Preventive Benefits Rider. Acceptance guaranteed for one insurance policy/certificate of this type. Contact us for complete details about this insurance solicitation. This specific offer is not available in CO, NY; call 1-888-7994433 or respond for similar offer. Certificate C250A (ID: C250E; PA: C250Q); Insurance Policy P150 (GA: P150GA; NY: P150NY; OK: P150OK; TN: P150TN). Rider kinds B438/B439. 6154-0120

NOTICE TO CREDITORS 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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000062-180 The undersigned JULIA S. JOHNSON, having qualified on the 26TH Day of MARCH 2026 as ADMINISTRATOR of the Estate of RUBY SEYMOUR, 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 1ST Day OF JANUARY 2027, 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 1ST DAY OF OCTOBER 2026. JULIA S. JOHNSON, ADMINISTRATOR 115 WATER TOWER RD. MONCURE, NC 27559 Run dates: O1,8,15,22P

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#26E000531-180 The undersigned JOHN R. HEATH, having qualified on the 22ND Day of SEPTEMBER 2026 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of JOHN F. HEATH, 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 1ST Day OF JANUARY 2027, 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 1ST DAY OF OCTOBER 2026. JOHN R. HEATH, EXECUTOR 114 JACK BENNETT ROAD CHAPEL HILL, NC 27517 Run dates: O1,8,15,22P

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

TAKE NOTICE

Notice to Creditors

PUBLIC NOTICE

All Persons, firms and corporations having claims against Helen B. Brooks, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before January 1, 2027, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the deceased are asked to make immediate payment. This first day of October, 2026. Helen L. Dark, Executor Estate of Helen B. Brooks P. O. Box 512 Pittsboro, N. C. 27312

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

CREDITOR’S NOTICE 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.

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 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 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 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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS 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

NOTICE TO CREDITORS 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 26E000516-180 The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Mary Hondros Pappas, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, notifies all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned at her address, P. O. Box 1515, Pittsboro, North Carolina, 27312, on or before the 1st day of January, 2027, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment. This 25th day of September, 2026. Cathleen Pappas Whitted P. O. Box 1515 Pittsboro, North Carolina 27312 October 1, 8, 15, 22

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.

NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE TO CREDITORS CHATHAM COUNTY

CHATHAM NORTH CAROLINA

HAVING QUALIFIED as Administrator of the Estate of Ruben Josue Perez Corona a/k/a Jose DeJesus Robles Cruz of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said deceased to present them to the undersigned on or before the 31st day of December, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. This the 23rd day of September, 2026. Pompeya Corona Gonzalez, Administrator Of the Estate of Ruben Josue Perez Corona a/k/a Jose DeJesus Robles Cruz 1680 Devils Tramping Ground Road Bear Creek, North Carolina 27207 MOODY, WILLIAMS, ATWATER & LEE ATTORNEYS AT LAW BOX 629 SILER CITY, NORTH CAROLINA 27344 (919) 663-2850 4tp

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.

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 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 to the highest bidder for cash the following

The statewide general election will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

Polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Election Day.

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 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

NOTICE

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA CHATHAM COUNTY FILE#19E000259-180 The undersigned ANGELA SPINKS DUBLIN, having qualified on the 3RD Day of MAY 2024 as EXECUTOR of the Estate of LOUISE BREWER SPINKS, 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 1ST Day OF JANUARY 2027, 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 1ST DAY OF OCTOBER 2026.

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

ANGELA SPINKS DUBLIN, EXECUTOR 551 MARGARET PL GARNER, NC 27529 Run dates: O1,8,15,22P

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.

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

Advertisement for Bids Town of Pittsboro Town Lake Park Sidewalk The Town of Pittsboro in conjunction with NCDOT is requesting bids for the Town Lake Park Sidewalk project. For more information including all bid documents and pre-bid meeting details, please visit the website at https://www.pittsboronc. gov/Bids.aspx. Sealed bids must be received by the Town of Pittsboro, 287 East Street, Pittsboro, NC 27312 by 11:00am on Tuesday October 13th, 2026.

Notice to Creditors Having qualified as Personal Representative (or Executor/Administrator) of the Estate of Patricia Eileen Clark, late of Chatham County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before 01/01/2027 - typically 90 days from first publication date, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate are asked to make immediate payment to the undersigned.

NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF ZELOTA MARKHAM McDONALD CHATHAM COUNTY CLERK OF COURT FILE No.: 26E000545-180 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against ZELOTA MARKHAM McDONALD, deceased, of Chatham County, N.C., are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before January 4, 2027 or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment. This 1st day of October, 2026. Douglas Edward Markham P.O. Box 130923 Houston, TX 77219 Publication dates: October 1, 2026, October 8, 2026, October 15, 2026 & October 22, 2026

This the 1st day of October, 2026. James Clark, Personal Representative 2133 Farrington Rd Apex, NC 27523

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. 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

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Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

Maritime experts travel to Nantucket to investigate shipwreck remains exposed by nor’easter The newly exposed wreckage lay directly beneath the beach

“Given where it was and where it emerged, it means that everyone who was driving onto the beach this summer was just directly over this. I just think it is so funny and so cool.”

By Leah Willingham The Associated Press BOSTON — A maritime expert planned to visit a Nantucket beach Monday to inspect weathered wooden beams exposed by the weekend’s powerful nor’easter, possibly the remnants of a 19th-century shipwreck buried beneath the island’s southern shore. The Egan Maritime Institute said its exhibits and collections manager would survey the site and send a report to state underwater archaeologists, who then will work with the institute to determine which vessel the wreckage came from. The splintered timbers, fastened together by rusted iron, emerged near an area where remains believed to be from the Warren Sawyer, a wooden schooner lost in 1884, have been found before. Officials from Egan, a nonprofit that operates the Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum, cautioned Monday that the newly exposed wreckage has not been identified with certainty. The slow-moving nor’easter battered the Northeast coastline over the weekend with heavy rain, strong winds and dangerous surf, flooding low-lying communities from New Jersey to New England and knocking out power to more than 100,000 customers at times Sunday. The storm also raised concerns about coastal erosion as waves crashed into beaches and seawalls. The Warren Sawyer ran aground on Dec. 22, 1884, while carrying 1,115 bales of cotton

Jason Graziadei, Nantucket Current editor

JASON GRAZIADEI / NANTUCKET CURRENT VIA AP

Shipwreck remains exposed by a powerful nor’easter washed up on the southern shore of Nantucket, Massachusetts, last week. Maritime experts were working to determine the identity of the vessel. and 28 tons of scrap iron from New Orleans to Boston, according to the Massachusetts Board of Underwater Archaeological Resources. Its captain and seven-member crew were ultimately rescued. The schooner remained intact on the island’s Miacomet Beach for two weeks, allowing islanders to save 700 bales of cotton using skids and teams of oxen. Then, on Jan. 6, 1885, another storm tore the ship apart, scattering pieces of its hull, remaining cargo and cordage across

more than half a mile of beach. More than a century later, remains believed to be from the ship have continued to emerge from the sand. Jason Graziadei, who has lived on the island for two decades and is editor of the online news site the Nantucket Current, said he went out to the beach Saturday amid heavy winds with his 8-year-old son after he got a tip about possible wreckage on the island’s south shore. He and his son found the

wooden beams on a drive-on beach by the town’s wastewater facility that everyone calls the “Sewer Beds.” He said they had to park their car and walk down to the beach because erosion from the storm had formed a steep drop-off. The location made the discovery even more remarkable to him: It was directly beneath a route beachgoers had been driving all summer. “Given where it was and where it emerged, it means that everyone who was driving onto

the beach this summer was just directly over this,” Graziadei said. “I just think it is so funny and so cool.” Graziadei said his son was excited by the discovery and began asking what had happened to the people aboard the ship and why it had run aground. The two could walk right up to the exposed wreckage. “It’s amazing to think from, you know, over 100 years old that it’s still there,” Graziadei said. State archaeologists inspected a roughly 42-foot section of hull exposed on Miacomet Beach in late 2022 and concluded it was likely part of the Warren Sawyer. A roughly 15-foot-square section of the lower stern appeared nearby in February 2023, but shifting sands buried it again before state archaeologists could return to document it. Nantucket is one of the areas known as the “graveyards of the Atlantic,” with more than 750 wrecks estimated in the surrounding waters. The institute urged visitors not to disturb the newly exposed wreckage. Massachusetts law prohibits removing, damaging or displacing underwater archaeological resources.

CHATHAM SPORTS PREP FOOTBALL

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

CJ Crutchfield of Jordan-Matthews picks up yards in last week’s victory against East Chapel Hill.

Jets hold off East Chapel Hill The Chatham Central team produced another impressive result by winning a conference game Chatham News & Record staff CHAPEL HILL — Lennox Mordecai ran for two touchdowns and threw for another in

Jordan-Matthews’ 28-21 football victory at East Chapel Hill last Friday night. Jaden Fisher caught a touchdown pass and JC Crutch-

field had a 52-yard run for a touchdown. The Jets (3-3) kept East Chapel Hill (1-3) scoreless in the fourth quarter. Leo George, who ran for a touchdown, threw for two touchdowns for East Chapel Hill, but he was intercepted twice. Grady

LeGuillon and Josh Freeman each had a touchdown grab. The Wildcats have lost three in a row. Chatham Central 35, North Stokes 0: At Danbury, Brooks Albright threw two touchdown passes and scored on a run as the visiting Bears rolled in the Greater Triad Conference against a winless opponent. Gavin Williams scored on a reception and returned an interception for a touchdown. Carson Jackson rushed for

84 yards and a touchdown. Nolan Mitchell caught a touchdown pass. Albright was 9 for 18 for 152 yards in the air. Tyler Congrove intercepted two passes for the Bears. GIRLS’ FLAG FOOTBALL Noelle Whitaker scored Northwood’s touchdown on a pass play in a 7-6 victory against Union Pines.

Teams ready for diet of league play There has been momentum brewing for teams going into conference games By Bob Sutton Chatham News & Record UNDEFEATED Chatham Central has the week off in high school football, but three other teams from Chatham County will be moving into the conference portions of their seasons. So the next five weeks will be crucial for these teams. Here’s a look at the breakdown going into Friday night’s games: BIG SEVEN CONFERENCE For Seaforth (4-1), this means taking a three-game winning streak into a league encounter at Orange (2-3), which is coming off last week’s 43-22 home victory against Northern Durham. Seaforth won 29-22 at home against Orange last year in the first meeting between the teams. The Panthers led that game 22-21 with less than 1:40 to play before an Orange fumble set up Seaforth for the winning touchdown on the next play. The Hawks ended up as co-champions in the conference with Oxford Webb. Orange went on to finish third. FOUR RIVERS CONFERENCE Northwood (2-3) goes to de-

fending champion Eastern Randolph (3-3) for its league opener. The Chargers have won two of their last three games, with the exception a 22-15 loss to visiting Seaforth. Northwood coach Dalton Brown said his team has been in some pre-conference challenges. “We’re solid and our kids know we scheduled (those) so we’d be ready when we got to the conference,” Brown said. Eastern Randolph defeated Northwood 38-0 last year. Brown said Eastern Randolph’s tradition is unmistakable, but this is a chance “to see how much we’ve grown in a year.” This is the second year for the Four Rivers Conference. However, Eastern Randolph has been strong in conference competition this decade. The Wildcats have won 24 consecutive games in conference play. Northwood’s slate includes a 35-7 loss at Asheboro. Three weeks later, Eastern Randolph fell 14-3 at Asheboro. The combined record of the teams that Eastern Randolph has lost to this year is 13-2. Except for one game, Eastern Randolph has been playing without senior linebacker James Combs, the 2025 Defensive Player of the Year in the conference, because of an injury. Northwood linebacker Joshua Johnson had been the team’s leading tackler until he suffered a shoulder injury against Bart-

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Seaforth’s Mason Pooley makes a reception for a big gain earlier this season vs. Chapel Hill. lett Yancey in the team’s third game. “We should be getting him back,” Brown said. “It goes to speak that we’re building some good depth.” • Jordan-Matthews (3-3) opens its conference slate by taking on visiting North Moore (0-6). The Jets beat North Moore 12-7 last year, ending a fourgame losing streak in the series. That 2025 outcome was the lone conference victory for Jordan-Matthews last season. North Moore is averaging six points per game. The Mustangs were shutout victims the past

two weeks against Seaforth and Thomasville. In Jordan-Matthews’ 28-21 victory last week at East Chapel Hill, it was the most points for the Jets since the season opener. GREATER TRIAD CONFERENCE Chatham Central has four games remaining in its regular season, with the next three at home. That stretch begins Oct. 9 vs. College Prep and Leadership. The Bears are 2-0 in the conference after going 0-6 a year ago in the league.

FRIDAY’S GAMES • Seaforth at Orange • Northwood at Eastern Randolph • North Moore at Jordan-Matthews • Chatham Central – off week

Other than the Bears, the only teams in the conference with winning overall records are South Stokes, which is also 2-0 in the league, and South Davidson. South Davidson has lost to Bishop McGuinness in conference play.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Noelle Whitaker

PREP ROUNDUP

Woods Charter cranks out more volleyball wins The Northwood soccer team geared up for league play with a couple of victories Chatham News & Record staff WOODS CHARTER’S winning streak reached 11 matches as the Wolves improved to 9-0 in the Central Tar Heel 1-A Conference last week. Woods Charter defeated visiting Ascend Leadership before winning at home against Clover Garden and Chatham Charter. The 25-21, 22-25, 25-11, 25-19 result against Chatham Charter ended a string of nine consecutive sweeps for the Wolves. • Chatham Charter swept visiting The Hawbridge School by 25-16, 25-23, 25-10 and host Southern Wake by 25-11, 25-16, 25-5. • Chatham Central produced a four-match winning streak by

sweeping South Davidson and College Prep and Leadership in the Greater Triad Conference road matches. Addison Goldston recorded 19 kills and Chloe Brewer had 17 service points vs. South Davidson. Goldston racked up 19 service points and 18 kills against College Prep and Leadership. • Seaforth dominated host Durham School of the Arts 25-6, 25-12, 25-9 in the Big Seven Conference with Ally Forbes serving for 31 points and Sarah Beth Smith registering 16 kills. The Hawks then lost to visiting Green Level by 25-18, 19-25, 25-21, 26-24 the next night despite Smith’s 25 kills. • Northwood won a Four Rivers Conference match against visiting Eastern Randolph by 26-24, 19-25, 25-23, 16-25, 15-10 with Emory Fox providing 15 kills and Paola Ramirez posting 12 service points. • Winless Jordan-Matthews fell in Four Rivers Conference

road outings to Eastern Randolph and North Moore. BOYS’ SOCCER Northwood won 5-4 at Cummings and 5-0 against visiting Southern Alamance to complete the preconference portion of its schedule with an 8-4-2 record. Jordan-Matthews did get in a game last week in advance of starting Four Rivers Conference play this week. • Seaforth won 2-1 at Durham School of the Arts with a pair of second-half goals in the Big Seven Conference. • Woods Charter defeated visiting River Mill 4-0 in a Central Tar Heel 1-A Conference game to remain undefeated in league play. The Wolves dropped a 1-0 decision at Research Triangle. • Chatham Charter fell to visiting Clover Garden 5-2 and to host Central Carolina Academy 6-2 in Central Tar Heel 1A Conference games. Woods Charter’s Elisabeth Stanford, center, goes up at the net as teammate Cecilia Brignati looks on during a match against Ascend Leadership last week.

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Northwood, girls’ flag football Noelle Whitaker is a junior on Northwood’s girls’ flag football team. She also plays point guard on the Chargers’ girls’ basketball team. Northwood is 6-1 on the year and riding a four-game winning streak. Last week, the Chargers got a 7-6 comeback win over Union Pines. In the fourth quarter, trailing 6-0, Whitaker caught the game-winning touchdown pass for Northwood’s only points of the game—one of her five catches for 35 yards on the day. For the season, Whitaker leads Northwood in receiving yards and is on the state leaderboard. She also is tied for the team lead in touchdowns as well as interceptions on defense.

GENE GALIN FOR CHATHAM NEWS & RECORD

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

MLB considers Grand Teton National Park for baseball game site Environmental groups have raised concerns about construction on protected land By Ronald Blum The Associated Press MAJOR LEAGUE Baseball has reached out to the federal government about the possibility of one day staging a game in western Wyoming’s Grand Teton National Park, an idea quickly met with resistance from environmental groups and others. MLB and the players’ association have played a handful of regular-season games away from the 30 big league ballparks in recent years, including in the Iowa corn fields made famous by the movie “Field of Dreams.” An MLB official familiar with the discussions confirmed Monday that the league approached the Trump administration

about possibly hosting a game in a national park. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the league hadn’t authorized comment on the matter and said it was among several ideas MLB has explored. A White House official said MLB asked the administration whether hosting a game at a national park would be possible but emphasized it was not a presidential directive and was not driven by the administration. The National Park Service has not granted any permits, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because there was no authorization to speak on the record. MLB’s special event games have included games at Dyersville, Iowa, in 2021, 2022 and 2026, with another scheduled next August between Boston and Kansas City. In addition, regular-season

“It’s abhorrent.” State Sen. Mike Gierau (D-Wyo.) games were played at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama, in 2024 and at Bristol Motor Speedway in Bristol, Tennessee, in 2025, and games have been held since 2017 in conjunction with the Little League World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. MLB also has played international games in London; Mexico City and Monterrey, Mexico; Seoul, South Korea; Sydney; and Tokyo; plus some in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Grand Teton includes a commercial airport — the busiest in Wyoming — and a vast expanse of Jackson Hole bottomlands with spectacular views of the

AMBER BAESLER / AP PHOTO

The Teton mountains reflect on Oxbow Bend in Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. Teton Range. There is no shortage of flat terrain where a temporary ballpark could be built. The possibility of building a baseball field on national park land quickly raised a host of questions. “It’s abhorrent,” Mike Gierau, a Democratic state senator and baseball lover who represents Jackson and nearby Grand Teton, wrote in a text message. “Baseball is the American game. The national parks are America’s greatest idea. But a national park is to be protected for its undeveloped and scenic values.” Environmental groups also

came out against the idea, first reported by The Washington Post. “Americans want to see protections for our national parks and public lands strengthened. Bulldozing these lands for a baseball stadium does the opposite, destroying the magnificent landscapes that millions of people come to experience,” Chris Kassar, the Sierra Club’s Wyoming director, said in a statement. A message left with Grand Teton officials seeking more information wasn’t immediately returned.

Bulls rookie Wilson says he’s going to try to lead, not blend in The UNC product is confident as the Bulls look to him to turn the team’s fortunes By Matt Carlson The Associated Press CHICAGO — A second prominent Caleb could make a splash this season on the sports scene in Chicago. Rookie Bulls forward Caleb Wilson is facing lofty expectations as the young centerpiece of the rebuilding NBA team, something now-injured quarterback Caleb Williams has been accomplishing with the NFL’s Bears. And like Williams, whose prolific passing and nimble footwork led the Bears to an unexpected 11-6 record and division title last season, the 20-year-old Wilson seems to have arrived with a bit of a confident edge. “Well, in my opinion, there’s no leadership while blending in,

so I’m definitely not going to try to blend in,” Wilson, the No. 4 overall pick in the NBA Draft, said at the Bulls’ media day. “I am going to go in there and try to lead by example. “I feel like as a rookie, people respect actions more than respect voice or words. So I’ll let my actions lead.” The Bulls are trying to climb from a 31-51 record in 2025-26 when they missed the playoffs for the fourth straight season. Chicago allowed 121.5 points per game, ranking 28th overall in the NBA. The 6-foot-10 Wilson was considered possibly the most athletic player in the draft. Known for his finishing ability, the forward averaged 19.8 points and 9.4 rebounds in 24 games with UNC last season before it was cut short by left hand and right thumb injuries. Wilson is good to go and has been impressing new first-year executive vice president of basketball operations Bryson Graham and new coach Tia-

Chicago Bulls forward Caleb Wilson poses for a photo during the team’s media day this week.

PAUL BEATY / AP PHOTO

go Splitter with his work ethic and willingness to learn as the team gets its formal training underway. “The expectations are probably pretty high because Caleb is pretty outspoken,” Graham said. “But internally we know that it’s a season of growth and development. We have to be OK with giving him grace throughout this year because he’s going to have some ups and downs. “It’s exciting because Caleb has all the potential in the world, and we just, kind of like,

have to water that seed correctly. You know, in that time, it will sprout into something really beautiful.” Wilson has been working on strength and conditioning to navigate NBA play. He and Splitter have yet to talk about a specific role, with both saying that will evolve. Wilson says he thinks Splitter, a 41-yearold from Brazil who played seven seasons in the NBA, will “allow him to go out there and play” and be direct if he needs to make changes. Wilson said he’s fluid about

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what he wants to accomplish as a rookie. “I’m more of a process guy than an outcome guy,” he said. “That’s how I’ve been … just as of late because, you know, you can’t control the outcome of things if you don’t focus on the process.” Point guard Josh Giddey also has been impressed by Wilson. “It’s obviously a different kind of level when you play against real NBA talent in the regular season,” Giddey said. “But one thing he doesn’t lack is confidence.”

B4 SIDELINE REPORT ESPORTS

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

James gone, but Lakers GM Pelinka, coach Redick excited about future

11-year-old Japanese player Kurihara wins esports gold medal at Asian Games

Los Angeles will have a new look after a busy offseason

Nagoya, Japan Yuki Kurihara of Japan has won a gold medal in esports at the Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan. The 11-year-old is believed to be the youngest ever gold-medal winner in the games, which date from 1951. He says eel is his favorite training food, and he found his niche in his sport when he was in kindergarten. He defeated Kang Dongshin of South Korea 10-2 on Saturday in the final of the Puyo Puyo Champions puzzle game. He also defeated Tanarak Wongkitikun of Thailand in the semifinals 10-1.

By Greg Beacham The Associated Press

NCAA FOOTBALL

Simmons’ 5-sack day marred by celebration that mimicked urinating on field Knoxville, Tenn. Texas Longhorns edge rusher Colin Simmons tied the program record with five sacks in a 20-17 win over Tennessee. He also made another highlight that was going viral by halftime. He sacked Tennessee quarterback Faizon Brandon in the second quarter, then started celebrating in a way that drew an immediate flag. The official announced the unsportsmanlike penalty for “simulating” using the restroom. Simmons has 28 sacks in 33 career games at Texas.

MLB

Verlander leaves final start of 21-year career as daughter sprints to mound for hug Detroit Justin Verlander received an unexpected farewell during his MLB finale. His 7-year-old daughter, Genevieve, joined Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch on the mound during the sixth inning against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Wearing a Tigers jersey with her dad’s name, she hugged Verlander. The 43-year-old pitcher, a 10-time All-Star and three-time Cy Young Award winner, left the field holding his daughter’s hand to a standing ovation. Verlander allowed two runs and five hits in 51⁄3 innings. His career ends with 3,560 strikeouts.

WNBA

Wilson wins AP WNBA Player of the Year for 3rd straight year; Reese top defensive player New York A’ja Wilson won the WNBA Player of the Year honors for the third straight year, receiving 15 of the 17 first-place votes. She topped Olivia Miles of Minnesota as well as Caitlin Clark and Kelsey Mitchell of Indiana, who all had stellar seasons. It’s the fourth time that Wilson has won the award, the most all time since the awards were first given in 2016. Angel Reese won Defensive Player of the Year. Cheryl Reeve wins Coach of the Year for third time. Minnesota’s Olivia Miles was unanimous Rookie of the Year.

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. — LeBron James has left the building, and that’s not the only big change facing the Los Angeles Lakers in the upcoming season. James’ departure was still on general manager Rob Pelinka’s mind when he held his start-of-the-season news conference with coach JJ Redick. The general manager also exuded optimism about his first discussions with the Lakers’ latest new owners, praised the continued additions to his front office and got excited about the major changes to their roster, headlined by the addition of center Walker Kessler. Pelinka began the afternoon by thanking James profusely for their eight years together, but he declined to go into any detail about the dissolution of the Lakers’ partnership with the top scorer in NBA history and the focal point of their franchise. James signed with the Philadelphia 76ers on July 24. “We’re grateful for the LeBron era, and I think the communications with him this offseason were held diplomatically and professionally and honestly,” Pelinka said. “It was done amicably, professionally, gracefully, and we look at the whole thing with gratitude. It was a great era, and we’re grateful for it.” James’ eight seasons with the Lakers were the longest continuous stretch with a single team of his NBA career, and he won the franchise’s 17th championship in 2020 while returning it to consistent playoff success. When James left his son behind to move to Philadelphia, he pointedly did it on a two-year, $8 million deal — a

Los Angeles Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka, left, and head coach JJ Redick speak with reporters.

GREG BEACHAM / AP PHOTO

steep discount that the Lakers never got. But if Pelinka and the Lakers feel any disappointment about the circumstances of James’ departure, the GM has no intention of revealing it publicly. Instead, the Lakers are moving on with a firm focus on maximizing the talents of NBA scoring champion Luka Doncic and fellow high-scoring guard Austin Reaves. “Luka is the world’s greatest offensive player, and for us to have an opportunity to have that player in our building every night as a 26-year-old is special, and it requires us to do special things to build a team around it,” Pelinka said. “That’s what we started this summer, and we’re really, really happy with the way it’s looking so far.” The biggest move was the acquisition of Kessler, the 7-foot-2 center acquired from Utah for a host of first-round draft capital and then signed to a four-year, $130 million contract. Kessler fills Doncic’s longstanding desire for a center who can impact the game on both ends, both as a rim protector

and a rim-rocking lob finisher. “I think Walker is a perfect fit for Luka and AR, just in terms of his rim protection and really being an anchor for our defense,” Redick said. “That’s an area we’ve struggled with.” Redick is already working on the changes he’ll make with James’ departure and Kessler’s arrival. The Lakers have done copious defensive switching in recent years, but Redick understandably wants Kessler to spend his time protecting the rim. Redick also intends to go deeper into his bench on a consistent basis, because that bench has improved: “We’re going to play more guys this year. We’re just naturally deeper.” Those additions include Collin Sexton, Quentin Grimes, Kevon Looney, Sandro Mamukelashvili, Ziaire Williams, Matisse Thybulle and rookie Cameron Carr, who is already drawing rave reviews from the Lakers’ staff. When asked to speculate on the Lakers’ starting lineup, Redick was typically blunt and sarcastic: “I’m pretty confident in three of the spots.

The other two spots will not be white guys.” Doncic, Reaves and Kessler are white, as is 15-year NBA veteran Redick. Even after being sold for the second time in two years, the Lakers are continuing to bolster their infrastructure with changes begun during Dodgers owner Mark Walter’s brief stewardship. Pelinka said he has added more than 15 people to his front office, investing heavily in scouting and development with the goal of becoming the NBA’s best in those categories. Pelinka also expressed a desire for continuity in the Lakers’ roster after years of wholesale upheaval in their desperate attempts to assemble a championship-caliber team around James as he entered his third NBA decade. “One of the things we really wanted to lean into was a team that lined up in age with Luka and AR,” Pelinka said. “We want this team to grow together, and I think we were very intentional to get younger and deeper. I think if you look at our roster, that thesis was consistent throughout.”

After three straight 100-loss seasons, White Sox headed back to postseason Chicago clinched its 12th playoff berth in history By Dave Skretta The Associated Press KANSAS CITY, Mo. — After becoming the first team in major league history to follow consecutive 100-loss seasons with a playoff berth, nobody would have begrudged the White Sox for spilling over the dugout railing and celebrating wildly on the field in Kauffman Stadium. Instead, they matter-of-factly formed a handshake line, as if their 9-1 win over the Royals was any ol’ midsummer matinee. They were saving the party for the clubhouse. The White Sox clinched no worse than one of three AL wild-card spots with the rout in Kansas City, and in the plastic-draped visiting locker room, the bottles of Moët were stacking up quickly. Miguel Vargas was drenched, Munetaka Murakami was beaming and a team expected to finish last in the AL Central was relishing a most improbable postseason appearance. “This means a lot for us,” Vargas said. “We’ve been chasing this moment for a long time. It’s special for us. It’s special for the whole organization. This is a special group of guys, and this is the most fun we can have.” That might be a bit of hyperbole. The White Sox could be replicating — or, one-upping — the celebration this weekend. That’s because they still have their sights set on a division title. The White Sox be-

gan the day just a game back of Cleveland, which was finishing a three-game set in Boston later Thursday. Chicago was headed home for three games against last-place Colorado, while the Guardians were getting ready to fly to Kansas City, where they wrap up their regular season this weekend. Maybe that’s why the White Sox showed some restraint in celebrating their postseason berth right in front of the Royals. They could still use a little help from them. “They know what this is about,” White Sox manager Will Venable said. “This comes with the expectation that this was going to happen, which is really cool. They’re definitely letting loose right now, we’ll have a fun plane ride, but then back to business tomorrow.” It wasn’t just that the White Sox were two years removed from losing 121 games, setting a post-1900 record, or that no team had made the playoffs after consecutive 100-loss seasons — let alone three in a row. But even midway through April, they were making good — err, bad? — on most folks’ expectations, starting 6-13 and looking every bit the part of a perennial loser. But then their youngsters starting slugging, and the White Sox started piling up wins. Murakami, who signed a two-year, $34 million deal in December — after the White Sox paid a $6.575 million posting fee to the Yakult Swallows — has 33 homers and drove in his 74th run Thursday. Vargas has been receiving some MVP hype after hitting 33 hom-

CHARLIE RIEDEL / AP PHOTO

Chicago White Sox’s Kyle Teel celebrates in the dugout after scoring. ers of his own and driving in 92. And Colson Montgomery, who on Thursday tied Mark Reynolds’ season record of 223 strikeouts, has masked all those whiffs by hitting 31 homers and driving in 87 runs. “W’s are all that matters,” Montgomery said, Champagne and beer dripping from his goggles in the middle of the pandemonium. “You see this? This is all that matters. Whatever I can do to help the team, that’s all I care about.” Chicago’s trade of left-handed ace Garrett Crochet to the Red Sox in December 2024 also has paid long-term dividends. Three players whom the White Sox landed in the deal — Kyle Teel, Chase Meidroth and Braden Montgomery — were in the lineup Thursday, and all played a big role in helping the White Sox clinch the 12th postseason appearance. Teel homered, reached base five times and scored three

“W’s are all that matters. ... You see this? This is all that matters. Whatever I can do to help the team, that’s all I care about.” Colson Montgomery runs. Meidroth had a couple of hits, extending his on-base streak to 15 games. And batting last in the order, Montgomery had a hit and scored during a three-run second inning that broke open the game. It was 6-0 after two innings and 8-0 after four. And pretty soon, plastic tarps were going up in the visitors clubhouse, an almost unfathomable party just 90 minutes away. “This is what the White Sox is. We come together,” Murakami said, “and this is not the end. We’re going to start from here.”

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

Larson passes Briscoe with 7 laps left to win for fourth time at Kansas Speedway The defending champion has a 26-point lead in the Chase standings By Dave Skretta The Associated Press KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Kyle Larson has always found it easier to be the hunter than the hunted. He won’t have much choice in the matter now. The defending NASCAR Cup Series champion capped a dominant performance at Kansas Speedway on Sunday by passing Chase Briscoe with seven laps left and leading the rest of the way, leaving Larson to wheel his No. 5 Chevrolet into victory lane for a record-tying fourth time at the mile-and-a-half oval and with a padded lead in the Chase for the championship standings. Larson won each of the first two stages and broke his own record by leading 235 laps, allowing him to turn the slimmest of leads — a single point over Denny Hamlin at the start of the day — into a 26-point advantage heading to Las Vegas next weekend. “Such a good day,” Larson said. “I was going to be happy with second how the race went, but to get the lead, that’s a big deal.” Briscoe chased down Larson throughout the final stage, finally getting around him with 30 laps to go. But after briefly pulling away, the No. 19 Toyota began to get loose, and Briscoe brushed the wall. Larson closed in on the lead again, made a move on the low side and powered away, taking the checkered flag for the second time in three races. He also won at St. Louis, a victory that had ended a maddening 51-race winless drought. “I think it’s easier to be the hunter than the hunted,” Larson

Kyle Larson celebrates in Victory Lane after winning Sunday’s NASCAR Cup Series race in Kansas City. said. “With me out front, I’m just defending, trying to guess on what the fast lines are, and when he got in front of me he started getting really loose.” So loose that Briscoe drifted all the way back to fourth. Austin Cindric wound up second and Hamlin finished third. “It was better for me being in second. It would tighten me up and allow me to be a little better,” Briscoe said, “and as soon as I got the lead I got really free again. Frustrating for sure.” Cindric spent much of the day stalking Larson but was never able to get his No. 2 Ford around him. He might have been the fastest car on the track at the end too,

“I think it’s easier to be the hunter than the hunted. With me out front, I’m just defending.” Kyle Larson but Cindric was too far back to mount a challenge for the victory. “I wish I would have had at least a shot at it. I thought we could join the fun at least,” Cindric said, “but proud of the effort.” It was a similar story — and a bittersweet day — for Ham-

lin, whose strong third-place run nevertheless cost him in the points race. The revamped Chase format offers a big reward for wins, and Larson was the one doing a celebratory burnout at the end. “Just didn’t quite have it today,” Hamlin said. “We could be really good in the long run. In the short run, the 5 was really good. The 2 was good. And we just couldn’t quite hold those guys off or keep them close enough in the short run.” Persistent rain earlier in the weekend washed out practice and qualifying, leaving the starting lineup to be set by a combination of last week’s results at

COLIN E. BRALEY / AP PHOTO

Bristol and owner points. That left Larson in the enviable spot of starting alongside Joey Logano on the front row and the fortunate position of having had so much success at Kansas that missing out on practice really didn’t matter. Larson’s fourth win tied Hamlin’s record for the track, and he’s been first or second in seven of the past 11 races there. “I feel like if we can just click it, we’re the most comfortable on these (mile-and-a-half tracks),” Larson said. “Man, what a day. I thought we’d have a good shot. I didn’t think we’d have a max points-type day, so I’m just thrilled.”

Game delays for lightning may be annoying, but they save lives — sports meteorologist explains risk Delays have plagued the early college football season

1997

By Chris Vagasky The Conversation WHEN NEARBY lightning forces officials to delay a big college football game, the backlash from fans can be fierce, especially if the sky over the stadium is still mostly blue. Sports fans took to social media to complain loudly when nearby lightning forced several game delays on Sept. 19, including Florida State at Alabama, UNC at Clemson, BYU at Colorado State, and Charlotte at Appalachian State. The Alabama delays earned particular anger because there was no rain at Bryant-Denny Stadium at the time. I’m a meteorologist who studies lightning and lightning safety around sporting events, so I am familiar with the risks and why those lightning rules exist. My colleague and I documented 262 football-related lightning deaths and injuries in the United States between 1970 and 2023. That included 12 people who were injured by lightning that struck near Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida, after a Green Bay-Tampa Bay NFL game in 2014, and about 40 high school players and coaches who were injured when lightning struck in the middle of a group of players running sprints during football practice in Grapeland, Texas, in 2004. Lightning strikes can also be lethal. In 2024, one player was killed and eight others injured when lightning struck during a televised soccer match in Peru. In 1998, multiple players were injured when lightning struck during a soccer match in South Africa. To understand why the

Year the NCAA passed its current severe weather delay policy

were already underway, and the majority of the delays were over in less than 90 minutes. Delays frustrating but necessary

JACOB KUPFERMAN / AP PHOTO

The Clemson-UNC game had a significant delay earlier this month. NCAA has become a stickler for delaying games when lightning is nearby, let’s take a look at the science behind the safety protocols keeping fans and players safe when thunderstorms are nearby. Real threat on, off field Large stadiums are of particularly high concern when it comes to lightning because of their open-air stands and large crowd sizes. If lightning struck the bleachers during a game, electricity could travel through the metal seats, injuring or killing dozens of fans. A strike to the turf could send ground current across the field, injuring or killing the players, coaches and game officials. The likelihood of experienc-

ing a lightning delay might be even higher soon. A new NCAA proposal, if approved by the Division I Cabinet, would move the start of the college football season a week earlier starting in 2027. That would mean more games played during the peak of the late summer and early fall lightning season, increasing the lightning risk further. How NCAA lightning safety policies work In college sports, lightning safety policies have been in place for nearly 30 years. First published in 1997 and regularly updated in the NCAA Sports Medicine Handbook, these policies give clear guidance on when to suspend and resume play. The eight-mile radius: Because lightning can strike 8 or

more miles away from the parent thunderstorm — sometimes resulting in a bolt from the blue — safety policies require game delays when lightning is detected within that distance. Players clear the field, and fans are encouraged to go to a safe place, such as the stadium concourse. Remaining in the stands exposes them to lightning danger. The 30-minute clock: Electric charge in the clouds can linger after a storm has passed, so waiting 30 minutes after the last lightning flash is detected lets the threat subside. Each new lightning flash in the eight-mile radius resets the timer. A 2018 study reviewed 136 college football and NFL games that were delayed by lightning between 2010 and 2015. Half of the delays occurred when games

Because lightning can happen before or after a thunderstorm is overhead, rain is a poor indicator of lightning danger. Most lightning injuries and fatalities occur before the rain starts or after it ends, when people think they’re safe. Today, some teams use dedicated event meteorologists with accurate radar and lightning data to monitor conditions surrounding the stadium. Their expertise can minimize the amount of time that games are delayed. While it can be frustrating to wait out a lightning delay, keep in mind that a game can always resume, but lightning injuries can last forever. So if you’ve grumbled about a game delay and thought football-related lightning incidents in the United States were rare, “Not so fast, my friend,” as longtime ESPN college football analyst Lee Corso might say. Corso’s own rental car, unoccupied at the time, was memorably struck by lightning outside Lane Stadium in Blacksburg, Virginia, before the 2000 Georgia Tech-Virginia Tech game. The game ended up being canceled because of the storm. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license.

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

entertainment this week in history West, East Germany unite; space race begins, Hamas attacks Israel The Associated Press OCT. 1 1949: Mao Zedong, leader of the communist People’s Liberation Army, proclaimed the People’s Republic of China during a ceremony in Beijing. 1971: Walt Disney World opened near Orlando, Florida. 1975: Muhammad Ali defeated Joe Frazier in the “Thrilla in Manila,” the last of their three boxing bouts for the heavyweight championship. OCT. 2 1919: President Woodrow Wilson had a serious stroke at the White House that left him paralyzed on his left side. 1967: Thurgood Marshall joined the U.S. Supreme Court as its first African American justice; he would serve on the bench for 24 years until his retirement in 1991. 1970: One of two chartered twin-engine planes flying the Wichita State University football team to Utah crashed into a mountain near Silver Plume, Colorado, killing 31 of the 40 people on board. OCT. 3 1873: Modoc leader Kintpuash was hanged at Fort Klamath, Oregon, after being convicted of his role in the deaths of U.S. negotiators during the Modoc War, a conflict in which his people resisted relocation. Kintpuash was the only Native American leader charged and convicted of a war crime by the U.S.

AP FILE PHOTO

Rock singer Janis Joplin performs at the Newport Folk Festival in July 1968, in Costa Mesa, Cal. Joplin died on Oct. 4, 1970. 1990: West Germany and East Germany ended 45 years of postwar division, declaring the creation of a reunified country. 1993: Eighteen U.S. service members and hundreds of Somalis were killed in the Battle of Mogadishu — the deadliest battle for U.S. troops since the Vietnam War. The battle inspired the film “Black Hawk Down.” OCT. 4 1777: Gen. George Washington’s troops launched an assault on the British at Germantown, Pennsylvania, resulting in heavy American casualties and the retreat of Washington’s Continental Army. 1957: The Space Age began as the Soviet Union launched Sputnik 1, the first artificial satellite, into orbit. 1970: Rock singer Janis Joplin was found dead in her Hollywood hotel room at age 27. OCT. 5 1958: Racially desegregated Clinton High School in

Clinton, Tennessee, was nearly leveled by an early-morning bombing. 1989: A jury in Charlotte convicted evangelist Jim Bakker of using his television show to defraud followers. 2011: Steve Jobs, the Apple founder and former chief executive who helped transform everyday technology through products including the iPhone, iPad and Mac, died in Palo Alto, California, at age 56. OCT. 6 1927: The era of talking pictures arrived with the opening of “The Jazz Singer” starring Al Jolson, a feature film containing both silent and sound-synchronized sequences. 1973: War erupted in the Middle East as Egypt and Syria launched a surprise attack on Israeli forces in the Sinai Peninsula and the Golan Heights during the Yom Kippur holiday, starting a nearly three-week conflict that would become known as the Yom Kippur War. 1981: Egyptian President Anwar Sadat was shot to death by members of the Egyptian Islamic Jihad. OCT. 7 1765: The Stamp Act Congress convened in New York to draw up Colonial grievances against England. 1985: Palestinian gunmen hijacked the Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro in the Mediterranean Sea. The hijackers shot and killed a Jewish American tourist in a wheelchair and pushed him overboard. 2023: Hamas-led militants stormed into Israel from the Gaza Strip, killing nearly 1,200 people and taking more than 250 hostages.

AP PHOTO

Crowds holding posters of Mao Zedong fill a street in China to celebrate the Communist revolution after Mao proclaimed the People’s Republic of China on Oct. 1, 1949.

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Austrian yodelers take voices underground, turning parking garage into Alps The film “The Sound of Music” made the practice popular internationally

People yodel during a public event in an underground garage in Graz, Austria, on Sept. 23.

By Philipp Jenne The Associated Press

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GRAZ, Austria — No mountains to practice on? No problem. Yodeling fans in Austria have moved their practice sessions to an underground parking garage, since it produces echoes like those they can get in the landscapes of the Alps. “It’s not too dissimilar to the high mountains,” said yodeling teacher Anna Maria Gutschi as she led a group of 30 through an empty parking garage earlier this week. “You have wide hallways; you have walls that reflect a lot.” Gutschi works for the Styrian Volksliedwerk, a cultural organization promoting traditional folk music in the southeastern Austrian city of Graz — which is not in the high mountains, but sits in a flat basin surrounded by hills and low mountain ranges at the edge of the Alps. The group has been holding a series of courses on yodel-

DENES ERDOS / AP PHOTO

ing in unusual places to keep the tradition alive in modern times. Whether it is an underground car park, a canal or a gas station — as long as the acoustics work, up to 30 people are allowed to join each time for a unique experience. “It’s a form of communication from mountain to mountain — just like that, without the need for a phone,” Gutschi said, describing the art of yodeling as she let her voice wander up and down the scales. “And it’s not as boring as writing an SMS. Sounds much better, too.” “The energy is rising, it’s rising and rising,” Gutschi said as she explained the unique me-

lodic tradition to her students. “Ever higher and then it wants out on top and there it goes.” For over an hour, the yodelers walked through the city’s largest underground parking garage, practicing their yodeling skills until they had reached the deepest part of the garage — and the best conditions for a great sound. While some participants were already experienced yodelers, newcomers to the craft also were welcome to join this subterranean class. Jamey Sohn, from South Korea, who is studying sustainable development in Graz, decided to take the class to immerse herself in Austrian culture.

“When I actually came here, it was a lot more — well, I wouldn’t say easy per se, but it’s a lot more approachable than I first expected,” Sohn said. Yodeling emerged centuries ago as a way of communicating in the Alps over long distances — not just between people, but also between man and animal. Cattle would recognize their owner from his voice and return to the stable from far away. Over time this primeval form of singing has evolved into its own musical genre first made popular internationally by the U.S. musical film “The Sound of Music.” For Thomas Button, a teacher who is originally from New York state, yodeling is “like a form of meditation. Singing meditation.” “It’s hard to describe how much power you get from yodeling together, the energy from within,” said local yodeling fan Rudolf Schmidhofer. “The togetherness, the polyphonic kind of yodeling where you must listen to each other.” “I’m still a student when it comes to this, but I like it very much,” he added.

U2 goes back to school for 50th anniversary show 32 students joined the band for the hit “One” By Peter Morrison and Brian Melley The Associated Press LONDON — Irish band U2 returned to school last Friday to put on a surprise class in rock ’n’ roll where they formed a half century ago. The band ripped through a seven-song set including an encore of “With or Without You” for hundreds of students in the schoolyard of Mount Temple Comprehensive School in Dublin and a crowd of others who got word of the gig or — like a construction crew several floors up a nearby building — were lucky to be within earshot and have a bird’s eye view. “We escaped the lab — how’s the experiment going for you?” Bono said as he pointed to the science classrooms. The band got its start at the school 50 years ago when a 14-year-old Larry Mullen posted a note on a message board reading: “Drummer seeks musicians to form band.” Originally known as Feedback, the group consisted of singer Paul Hewson, now Bono, guitarist David Evans, known as The Edge, and Adam Clayton on bass. The rest, as they say, is history, though it would be a couple

of years before they settled on the name U2 and not until 1980 that their first album, “Boy,” dropped. The 30-minute gig was not quite as secret as it may have seemed. A camera crew was rolling; international news media were gathered. It was part of a promotional push for their new album, “Carnaval De Luz,” which features a duet between Bono and Dolly Parton, who died of cancer last month. They later performed from a balcony to a crowd of fans on popular Grafton Street in central Dublin. Students, some sticking their heads out of classroom windows, screamed and cheered. They captured the moment on their phones and sang along to the familiar tunes. As he counted down the signature start of “Vertigo,” with “uno, dos, tres, catorce” (one, two, three, 14), he quipped: “If you’re taking Spanish lessons, don’t take them from me.” In a tribute to teachers, he became philosophical about his time at the school, saying it was where the band began the “humblest and hardest lesson” of learning how much they needed to be taught. “Part of that started here and the sense was that maybe all we needed was around us, just under our feet — if we could see it in our mates, our wider commu-

solutions

PETER MORRISON / AP PHOTO

U2 perform an impromptu concert from a balcony in central Dublin last Friday. nity that was going to help us get through the next 50 years,” he said. “So, we want to thank them — and the wider community around this rock ‘n’ roll high school.

We want to thank them — and the wider community around this rock ‘n’ roll high school.” Bono

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

famous birthdays this week Julie Andrews turns 91, Don McLean is 81, Keb’ Mo’ celebrates 75, Alicia Silverstone hits 50 The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week. OCT. 1 Actor-singer Julie Andrews is 91. Film director Jean-Jacques Annaud is 83. Baseball Hall of Famer Rod Carew is 81. Actor Randy Quaid is 76. Actor Esai Morales is 64. Retired MLB All-Star Mark McGwire is 63. Actor Zach Galifianakis is 57.

EDUARDO VERDUGO / AP PHOTO

Photographer Annie Leibovitz turns 77 on Friday.

OCT. 2 Singer-songwriter Don McLean (“American Pie”) is 81. Fashion designer Donna Karan is 78. Actor Avery Brooks is 78. Photographer Annie Leibovitz is 77. Singer-actor Sting is 75. Actor Lorraine Bracco is 72. Singer-songwriter Gillian Welch is 59. Actor-talk show host Kelly Ripa is 56. OCT. 3

EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION VIA AP

Fashion designer Donna Karan turns 78 on Friday.

Composer Steve Reich is 90. Rock ’n’ roll star Chubby Checker is 85. Musician Lindsey Buckingham (Fleetwood Mac) is 77. Blues musician Keb’ Mo’ is 75. Baseball Hall of Famer Dave Winfield is 75. Rock drummer Tommy Lee is 64. Singer-TV personality Gwen Stefani is 57. OCT. 4 Baseball Hall of Fame manager Tony La Russa is 82. Actor Susan Sarandon is 80. Actor Armand Assante is 77. Actor Christoph Waltz is 70. Singer Jon Secada is 65. Actor Liev Schreiber is 59. Actor Abraham Benrubi is 57. Actor Alicia Silverstone is 50. OCT. 5 College Football Hall of Fame coach Barry Switzer is 89. Rock musician Steve Miller is 83. Rock singer Brian Johnson (AC/DC) is 79. Actor Karen Allen is 75. Singer-songwriter Bob Geldof is 75. Astrophysicist-author Neil deGrasse Tyson is 68. OCT. 6 Actor Britt Ekland is 84. Irish politician Gerry Adams is 78. Pro

EVAN AGOSTINI / INVISION VIA AP

Astrophysicist and author Neil deGrasse Tyson turns 68 on Monday. Football Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy is 71. Bowler Walter Ray Williams Jr. is 67. Actor Elisabeth Shue is 63. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) is 61. OCT. 7 Author Thomas Keneally is 91. Singer John Mellencamp is 75. Rock musician Tico Torres (Bon Jovi) is 73. Cellist Yo-Yo Ma is 71. TV personality Simon Cowell is 67. Rock singer-musician Thom Yorke (Radiohead) is 58. Singer Taylor Hicks is 50.

B10

Chatham News & Record for Thursday, October 1, 2026

the stream

CHRIS PIZZELLO / AP PHOTO

Wynonna Judd performs “Why Not Me” during the 60th annual Academy of Country Music Awards 2025 in Frisco, Texas.

Quavo album, ‘East of Eden’ series, ‘Minecraft Dungeons II’ Catherine Zeta-Jones stars in “Kill Jackie” on AMC+ The Associated Press THE LIMITED series adaptation of “East of Eden” and an album from Quavo are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you. Also, among the streaming offerings worth your time this week, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: “Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma,” Wynonna Judd’s first album in a decade and “Minecraft Dungeons II.” MOVIES TO STREAM “Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma” (streaming Friday on Mubi) is Jane Schoenbrun’s anticipated follow-up to 2024’s “I Saw the TV Glow.” A standout at the Cannes Film Festival, the film stars Hannah Einbinder (“Hacks”) as a filmmaker eager to revive a slasher franchise with its original star (Gillian Anderson). In her review, AP Film Writer Lindsey Bahr called it “a thoughtfully constructed fever dream that wears its high and low brow references on its sleeve — a bold and worthy vision that continues Schoenbrun’s exploration of transitioning using the cinematic and pop cultural tools at their disposal and reinventing them in their image.” Amir Bar-Lev’s “The Last First: Winter K2” (Apple TV, out Friday) chronicles the first team of mountaineers who attempted to make a winter ascent of K2 in 2001. The expedition of the world’s second-highest peak is undertaken at a time when temperatures just at the base camp can reach 50 below. MUSIC TO STREAM Summer has come and gone, but festival season is not quite over. Austin City Limits Festival will take place over two consecutive weekends in the Texas capital starting Friday. Fans outside the Lone Star State and far beyond can livestream the first weekend, Oct. 2-4, via Disney+ and Hulu. Choose Texas, y’all! Country star Judd returns with her first new album in a decade. “The Hard Truth” promises to deliver on just that. She cowrote most of the album,

IAN WEST / PA VIA AP

Florence Pugh arrives for a special screening of “East of Eden,” in London last Friday.

cades hiding in plain sight as an art dealer. Her cover blows up when she learns a crew of assassins have been hired to kill her. The eight-episode thriller, debuting Friday, is adapted from Aidan Truhen’s novel “The Price You Pay,” and comes from the creative team behind “Killing Eve.” In “Tip Toe,” Alan Cumming and David Morrissey play neighbors of 15 years whose easy rapport morphs into open hostility as rising bigotry seeps into their lives. It premieres Friday on Starz. Russell T. Davies (“Queer as Folk”) wrote all five episodes of the drama, which won rave reviews when it aired in the UK earlier this year. Just in time for spooky season, Tubi unwraps a horror anthology called “Bite Size Terror.” The series spotlights emerging writers and directors across body horror, dark comedy and the supernatural. Episodes include “Kachina” — about the deadly repercussions of an influencer hired to redecorate a home who disturbs a family’s sacred doll while on the job — and “The Deep End,” about a babysitter who realizes something’s wrong with a child after an underwater trick in the pool. All episodes drop Friday, making it perfect for Halloween-season binging. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY

“I’ve spent a lifetime singing about heartbreak, healing, faith, and survival, but I’ve never made a record like this one.” Wynonna Judd which was produced by her husband, Cactus Moser. “I’ve spent a lifetime singing about heartbreak, healing, faith, and survival, but I’ve never made a record like this one,” Judd wrote in her album announcement in July. “These songs tell the truth about where I’ve been, what I’ve lost, what I’ve overcome, and who I’ve become.” That they do. Grammy-nominated rapper Quavo will release a new album, “QRÖMELIFE,” also on Friday. Executive produced by Pharrell Williams (who has been quite busy these days following 2025’s Clipse record and forthcoming titles from John Legend and Pusha T), the MC is ready to introduce his latest chapter. And while it might sound counterintuitive, start with the ferocious “Backwards,” his collaboration with T.I. It’ll have you wanting to book a flight to Atlanta.

JEFF MOORE / PA VIA AP

Catherine Zeta-Jones attends the “Kill Jackie” premiere in central London last Thursday. SERIES TO STREAM Florence Pugh headlines Netflix’s seven-episode adaptation of John Steinbeck’s 1952 novel “East of Eden,” playing the charming, morally slippery Cathy Ames. It’s written and executive produced by Zoe Kazan, granddaughter of Elia Kazan, who directed the famed 1955 film version that starred James Dean. This time, Christopher Abbott and Mike Faist play brothers Adam

and Charles Trask whose relationship is fractured when Ames enters their lives. Kazan says her version is a fuller telling of the story compared to her grandfather’s take, including a deeper dive into Pugh’s character. It premieres Thursday. Catherine Zeta-Jones stars in and executive produces the AMC+ series “Kill Jackie,” about a former international drug smuggler named Jackie Price, who spent two de-

The world of Minecraft has expanded well beyond computers, with books, Lego sets, all sorts of merchandise and even a hit movie. But developer Mojang is still in the video game business, and its latest spinoff is “Minecraft Dungeons II.” It takes the familiar blocky characters — and maybe a chicken or two — and drops them into an uncharted new dimension called the Sift. You can play solo or join forces with up to three friends to battle the mobs threatening to invade the Overworld. The quest begins on Xbox X/S, PlayStation 5, Switch and PC. As “Ace Combat 8: Wings of Theve” begins, things are looking rough in Strangereal, Bandai Namco’s alternate-universe Earth. The Federation of Central Usea has been invaded by the Republic of Sotoa, but despite the rout, the FCU still has a few fighter jets at its disposal. It’s up to you and your wingmen to reclaim the skies over your homeland. The Ace Combat series has been delivering high-flying dogfighting action for 30 years now, and the latest chapter promises state-of-the-art graphics and exotic new weapons. Liftoff is Friday on Xbox X/S, PlayStation 5 and PC.

VOLUME 11 ISSUE 32 | THURSDAY, OCTOBER 1, 2026

DUPLINJOURNAL.COM

Duplin Journal THE DUPLIN COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

the

BRIEF

Harrells’ students, staff come together for prayer Harrells Christian Academy students embrace as they pray together last Thursday during the school’s annual See You at the Pole student-led prayer. Turn to A6 for more photos.

this week

Familiar face on bench moving up Robert Gilmore, currently a District Court judge in Judicial District 5, has been appointed to the Superior Court in the district, which serves Duplin, Jones, Onslow and Sampson counties. Gilmore fills the vacancy created by the retirement of Superior Court Judge Henry Stevens.

Applications open for 2027-28 Kenan Fellows Applications are now open for the 2027-28 cohort of the Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership. The program connects teachers with local industries, higher education institutions and nonprofit organizations, giving educators opportunities to gain experience they can bring back to their classrooms, schools and districts. Teachers interested in applying can find application information through the Kenan Fellows Program for Teacher Leadership.

Free plant giveaway planned in Wallace A free plant giveaway will return to Wallace on Oct. 17 through a partnership between Duplin Christian Outreach Ministries and Johnson Nursery Corporation. Plants will be available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Crisis Center, 514 S. Norwood St. Although the plants are free, attendees are invited to make contributions to DCOM, an interdenominational organization that provides financial, nutritional and spiritual assistance to Duplin County residents experiencing unexpected crises.

Duplin County early voting begins Oct. 15 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.

COURTESY HARRELLS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

State auditor probes Duplin County’s financial controls Records show investigators requested information about accounts payable, purchasing cards, procurement and restricted funds By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — Records obtained by Duplin Journal confirm that the North Carolina Office of the State Auditor is conducting an ongoing inqui-

ry into Duplin County’s financial management, procurement practices, restricted funds and disposal of county property. The inquiry includes a rapid-response review of the county’s water district refunding bonds and a broader examina-

James Sprunt president resigns Shannon L. Hair resigned about six months after taking the presidency and six weeks after being placed on administrative leave By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal KENANSVILLE — James Sprunt Community College is continuing under acting President Jeff Taylor after Shannon L. Hair resigned from the presidency about six months after

taking the position and roughly six weeks after being placed on administrative leave by the college’s Board of Trustees. Board of Trustees Chair Anita R. Powers announced Hair’s resignation to the college community last week, saying Hair voluntarily resigned “pursuant

to an agreement with the College.” The announcement did not provide additional details about the agreement. When Hair was placed on administrative leave, Powers said personnel privacy laws prevented the board from providing a reason for the action. Taylor, who previously served as JSCC’s associate vice president of MIS, will continue serving as acting president during the transition. Powers said he

Wrong-way crash claims woman’s life on I-40 Highway Patrol says a Honda collided with two tractor-trailers near Exit 380 By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal

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tion of purchasing cards, procurement policies, grant accounts, restricted funds and the 2024 sale of a county dental mobile unit. The records indicate the State Auditor’s Office received reports through its anonymous tipline before beginning its review. On Jan. 15, the State Auditor’s Rapid Response team initiated contact with Finance

MAGNOLIA — A 26-year-old woman died last week after a wrong-way crash involving two tractor-trailers on Interstate 40 between Rose Hill and Magnolia. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol said Hipolita A. Martinez-Velez, driving a Honda Civic, was traveling east in the westbound lanes of I-40 shortly after 11 p.m. Sept. 23. The crash occurred near Exit 380. Troopers said two commercial trucks were traveling west, with one in the left lane and another in the right. As

the Honda approached, the driver of the left-lane truck attempted to move toward the shoulder, but the Honda struck the truck head-on. The driver of the second tractor-trailer swerved to avoid the collision and left the roadway. The Honda then struck the side of that truck before coming to rest in the middle of the interstate. According to authorities, Martinez-Velez suffered fatal injuries and died at the scene. The drivers of both tractor-trailers were evaluated by EMS and were not injured. Westbound I-40 remained closed between Magnolia and Rose Hill for several hours as emergency crews investigated the collision and cleared the roadway. The crash remains under investigation by the North Carolina State Highway Patrol.

Director Chelsey Lanier regarding the Duplin County Water Districts LOB Refunding a Series 2022 debt issue with an $11.5 million ceiling. The State Auditor’s Office requested financial information showing bond expenditures, the remaining fund balance and current project status. On May 28, investigative analyst Alexandra Laffan requested records from Interim County Manager Lisa Hughes covering a broader range of county operations. The requests have included bank accounts, restricted funds, purchasing cards, grant accounts, procurement policies, See AUDITOR, page A3

will provide “steady leadership and continuity” for the college, saying his focus is keeping the college centered on its students and community. “My priority as acting president is to keep James Sprunt Community College focused on serving our students and community,” Taylor said in a statement to Duplin Journal. “Our faculty and staff continue to help students reach their goals, and I want them to know they have my unwavering support during this transition. I’m working with college leadership to See RESIGNS, page A3

Duplin Journal for Thursday, October 1, 2026

THURSDAY

10.1.26 #145

Airport board OKs meter work, DUPLIN advances apron rehabilitation happening The fuel farm is expected to be completed by the end of the year, while apron work is scheduled to begin in mid-February

By Rebecca Whitman Cooke For Duplin Journal

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KENANSVILLE — Construction projects, rising utility costs and fuel pricing were among the key issues discussed during the September Duplin County Airport Commission Board meeting as officials worked to move forward with improvements at Duplin County Airport. Hunter Boniface, project engineer, provided an update on the fuel farm, reporting that physical construction remains slow while submittals continue to progress. Boniface said the concrete mix design has been officially approved after multiple revisions. The concrete supplier is using a standard airfield P501 mix. The approval process was delayed because earlier submittals lacked required documentation, used fine aggregate, or sand, that fell outside Federal Aviation Administration modulus specifications and carried a Virginia engineering stamp rather than a North Carolina stamp. “We’ve got a concrete mix we can approve this week, and we have requested a revised schedule from the contractor,” Boniface said. “We are waiting on designs for the pad where the new fuel tanks will go and for the shelter.” Boniface also answered questions about the concrete mix and the reasons for the lengthy approval process. “The important part is all the testing attached to it being recent and what is required,” Boniface said. Submittals are still pending for the foundation design for the tank pad and the fuel can-

“The important part is all the testing attached to it being recent and what is required.” Hunter Boniface opy/shelter design. The project is now expected to be completed by the end of the year rather than the original Oct. 31 target. An update on the apron rehabilitation project was discussed, with Airport Director Joshua Raynor distributing the formal construction contract with S.T. Wooten for board approval. The contract mirrors the original bid documents and includes standard “Buy American” steel certification requirements. The board unanimously voted to recommend approval of the contract to the county commissioners. Raynor will present the contract at the county commissioners’ preagenda meeting Thursday ahead of their Oct. 8 meeting. Pending approval, construction is expected to begin in mid-February 2027. The board continued discussing proposed changes to hangar rental rates and when to implement them. Raynor explained that rising utility costs, particularly electricity used by dehumidification and HVAC units, have created unbudgeted expenses. He also noted that the renovated hangars have increased in value. Raynor proposed establishing baseline hangar rate adjustments followed by predictable annual or biennial increases tied to the Consumer Price Index. Board members supported the approach as a way to manage rising costs while avoiding larger, unexpected rate increases in the future. The board also discussed separating electric meters so tenants can be responsible for their own utility costs. Current-

Camo for a Cause raises more than $90K for Riley’s Army Businesses, families and volunteers gathered at Tara Creek for an evening supporting children battling cancer By Ena Sellers Duplin Journal FAISON — A Southern evening of fellowship, food and generosity brought businesses, families and community members together Saturday at Tara Creek for Camo for a Cause. “We are honored to share that the second annual Camo For A Cause raised more than $90,000 to support families across North Carolina battling childhood cancer,” Amy Turner of Tara Creek told Duplin Journal.

Turner said the event drew 240 guests and more than 25 dedicated volunteers. “This evening was truly special,” said Turner. The event builds on the vision of Dona and Denny Lanier, who were inspired by the memories of their sons, Hill and Wright, both of whom died from cancer. The Laniers created Camo for a Cause to honor their sons’ desire to help other families facing childhood cancer. “Our community showed up with such generous hearts, and every person who attended, volunteered, donated, or supported the event helped make a difference for Riley’s Army and the families they serve,” Denny and Dona Lanier wrote in a statement to Duplin Journal. “We’ve experienced firsthand how pow-

erful it is when a community surrounds a family in need.” The evening featured a low country boil, music, silent and live auctions, and fellowship among supporters. Proceeds benefit Riley’s Army Triangle, a nonprofit organization that provides support to children battling cancer and their families. “We take pride in the partnerships that have been created within our community that make events like these possible,” said Lee Graham of Tara Creek. “The support, donations, the volunteer hours given will make a difference for so many in North Carolina.” Among those helping organize the event was the team at Wrill Southern Outdoors. The event also drew support from local businesses, including

ly, the main terminal building, lift station and two large corporate/community hangars are connected to a single electric meter. Raynor was instructed to meet with Tri-County Electric to assess options for separating the electrical service and having tenants pay utility providers directly. The board authorized Raynor to spend up to $5,000 to complete the meter separation if the work falls within that amount, allowing the project to move forward without waiting for the next monthly meeting. Raynor presented the operating budget for July 1 through Sept. 22 and reported that revenues and expenses were tracking on schedule. Salary expenses were under budget due to temporary staffing vacancies, while fuel purchases were higher. Year-to-date fuel purchases totaled $220,000 against an annual budget of $688,000. The board discussed whether changes to fuel rates might be necessary to cover rising costs while remaining competitive with other airports within a 50-mile radius. No rate changes were made. The airport is selling fuel for $7.08 per gallon under its flat markup structure. The board also discussed the merits of flat versus percentage-based fuel markups and the importance of protecting corporate customers, who account for about 80% of Jet-A sales. Raynor and the board agreed to conduct a comprehensive fuel study to evaluate the airport’s fuel pricing and margin structure. For September, the airport recorded 554 aircraft operations, sold 1,777 gallons of avgas and sold 11,555 gallons of jet fuel. Before adjourning, the board discussed daylight saving time and how permanent daylight saving time could affect airport operations, particularly winter morning opening hours and flight schedules.

members of the House of Raeford FLOCK. “It was a wonderful night of fellowship and generosity, all for a purpose much greater than ourselves: to help lighten the load for families walking an unimaginably difficult road,” House of Raeford FLOCK wrote in a statement. “It was wonderful to see so many from our House of Raeford team come out to support the cause, with several lending a hand throughout the evening as well.” For those involved, the event is a way to turn personal loss into support for families facing childhood cancer. “Saturday night reminded us that we’re never alone — and we’re ‘WRILLY’ thankful to be part of a community that continues to show up for others,” the Laniers wrote. Jacey Phanaulf, Riley’s Army Triangle director, thanked everyone who contributed to the event, saying their generosity is “making a meaningful difference for families when they need it most.”