Eagles rookie running back Will Shipley celebrates during Sunday’s Super Bowl, which Philadelphia won by defeating the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22 in New Orleans. Shipley, who attended Weddington High School before playing collegiately at Clemson, was a fourth-round pick of the Eagles in last year’s NFL Draft. See more on the Super Bowl on B4.
Hegseth renames base Fort Bragg
Washington, D.C.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth signed an order Monday restoring the name of a storied special operations forces base back to Fort Bragg. The North Carolina base was renamed Fort Liberty in 2023 as part of a national effort under the Biden administration to remove names that honored Confederate leaders. The base’s original namesake, Gen. Braxton Bragg, was a Confederate general from Warrenton who was known for owning slaves and losing key Civil War battles, contributing to the Confederacy’s downfall. But the Pentagon spokesman said Hegseth was renaming the base to honor Pfc. Roland L. Bragg, who he said was a World War II hero who earned the Silver Star and Purple Heart for his exceptional courage during the Battle of the Bulge. The choice of the World War II private first class got around a law prohibiting the military from naming a base after a Confederate leader.
Blowing Rock-born author Robbins dead at 92
New York
Tom Robbins, the literary prankster-philosopher who charmed, enlightened and addled millions of readers with such adventures as “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues” and “Jitterbug Perfume,” has died. He was 92. The New York Times and NPR reported Robbins’ death Sunday.
The Blowing Rock native published eight novels and a memoir and looked fondly upon his world of deadpan absurdity and zig-zag plots.
Trump order calls for ‘grand celebration’
The America 250 North Carolina grant deadline was extended to Feb. 28
By A.P. Dillon North State Journal
By Gary D. Robertson The Associated Press
RALEIGH — President Donald Trump issued an executive order last month outlining actions in preparation for the 250th celebration of America’s independence on July 4, 2026.
“I appreciate what the General Assembly has done so far, but it’s time for us to step up and get them the money they need right now to rebuild.”
Gov. Josh Stein
“It is the policy of the United States, and a purpose of this order, to provide a grand celebration worthy of the momentous occasion of the 250th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026. It
See CELEBRATE, page A3
RALEIGH — A state Superior Court judge on Friday upheld decisions by election officials to reject protests by challenger Jefferson Griffin in his very close race state Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs. In three one-page orders, Superior Court Judge William Pittman affirmed the December rulings of the State Board of Elections. Riggs, a Democrat, maintains a 734vote lead over Republican rival Griffin, who wants tens of thousands of contested ballots removed from the race tallies after more than 5.5 million ballots were cast and two recounts were held. Pittman entered the orders only a few hours after lis-
Also announced were $30M in additional public-private partnership grants for businesses
By A.P. Dillon North State Journal
RALEIGH — North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein has asked lawmakers for more than $1.07 billion to cover immediate needs for western North Carolina’s recovery from Hurricane Helene.
“The people of western North Carolina have suffered tremendously since Helene swept through,” Stein said in a press release. “I appreciate what the General Assembly has done so far, but it’s time for us to step up and get them the money they need right now to rebuild. We can’t forget western North Carolina
— and I will do everything in my power to ensure that the state shows up for them.”
Stein’s proposal is for specific urgent needs through July 1. The funds would come from the Stabilization and Inflation Reserve ($846.7 million) and the Helene Disaster Recovery Fund ($225 million).
Stein said in his proposal he will make additional Helene-related requests for the next fiscal year. He made his funding proposal announcement during a Feb. 3 press conference at MANNA Food Bank, a
tening to arguments by lawyers for Riggs, Griffin and the State Board of Elections. The hearing marked another step in a legal jumble regarding the race’s outcome, which is one of only a few unresolved nationwide from the Nov. 5 elections. Griffin, a state Court of Appeals judge, filed after the election written protests that now challenge about 66,000 ballots cast in the race. The state board dismissed those protests in December.
Griffin’s attorneys argue the board didn’t follow state laws or the state constitution when three categories of voters were included in the race tallies. They want the board’s decision reversed and the ballots excluded — a move that they have said Griffin anticipates
RACE, page A2 See FUNDS, page A8
Paul uses the term “persuaded” to express assurance. When he said he was persuaded of something regarding God, he meant he was fully convinced of its truth. It was a settled reality to him — no longer a matter of question. In Romans 8:38-39, Paul speaks of one such conviction:
“For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation — will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord!”
Some people worry about being separated from God’s love. They fear it might turn to hatred against them. They live in anxiety, questioning whether their conduct merits His approval and dreading His wrath. Their life is one of fear and bondage.
Paul had no such fears. He knew God is full of love, pity, and compassion. Even when we were sinners, Christ died for us. The Father so loved us that He gave His only begotten Son. If He loved us as rebels, how much more as His children? Instead of fearing separation from God’s love, Paul exclaims, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” (v. 35).
Paul understood the strength of earthly love. He knew a mother’s love — how she clings to her child no matter where he wanders. He knew other forms of human love and their tenacity. But the love of God in Christ surpasses them all. So, he asks, who shall separate us from the love of Christ?
Then he lists possible threats, only to reaffirm that none can succeed.
He says, “Neither death nor life.” If death takes us, it only ushers us into the more immediate presence of Christ’s love. If we continue in life, that love will sustain us through every trial. Neither time nor change can make Christ’s divine love grow cold.
“Nor angels.” The angels in heaven, though they surround God, will not take up so much of His attention that He forgets us. And evil angels — those who hate both God and us —
PUBLIC DOMAIN
cannot separate us from His love. Even Satan himself lacks the power to sever that bond.
Satan has no knife sharp enough to cut that love, no strength to tear Christ’s love from our hearts. The cords of divine love cannot be burned or broken. Every Christian is safe in God’s keeping.
“Nor things present.” Do you believe that? Do you trust that whatever is pressing upon you at this moment cannot separate you from God’s love? Life is full of discouragements, perplexities, and troubles. Many things would pull us away. Yet none of them can make God turn His back on us.
“Nor things to come.” Do you fear the future? Do you look ahead with dread, wondering how you will endure? Those coming trials cannot separate you from God’s love. His love will hold you through them all, becoming your strength, safeguard, and hope. Cast away your fears! Let the confidence of Paul fill your soul until you, too, can say with assurance, “I am persuaded!”
“Nor height, nor depth.” It does not matter how high God is above us in majesty
and greatness — His love still reaches us. Nor does it matter how low we sink in discouragement or helplessness. His love bridges the gulf.
O soul, trust in that love. It will never fail you. It will hold you fast through the gales of life. Tribulation, distress, persecution, famine, nakedness, perils — none of these shall separate you from Him!
Paul concludes: “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us!” (v. 37). Christ’s love will carry us as on eagles’ wings. It will smooth rough paths, strengthen the fainting heart, and preserve us in temptation. Even when we fall short, when we fail in ways we regret, that love will not cast us off. It will hold us securely to the end.
Let us trust in that love, be confident in it, and rest in full assurance of faith, knowing that:
When the storm-winds rage, and the rain falls fast, And the clouds hang low above, I shall be secure until the storm is past, For I trust my Savior’s love!
He knows the way, and He holds my hand, And He will not let it go; He will lead me home to that better land, Just because He loves me so!
I will trust His love, for it e’er will last; It is rich and warm and free; Through the years of life it will hold me fast, And my help and comfort be.
To my waiting heart all its treasures rare, As a sparkling stream shall flow; In the joy of God I shall ever share, Just because He loves me so!
The hymn above, “Because He Loves Me,” was written by Charles Naylor and included in the 1918 hymnal “Songs of Grace and Glory.” Charles Wesley Naylor is considered one of the most prolific and inspiring songwriters of the Church of God. He was bedridden for much of his adult life but wrote eight books, a newspaper column and more than 150 songs. Many of his writings are in the public domain.
The $400 million for the Queen City will go toward transportation, housing and more
By A.P. Dillon North State Journal
RALEIGH — The Local Government Commission approved significant bond packages for North Carolina’s biggest city and second-largest county.
Charlotte secured approval for $400 million in general obligation bonds to address transportation, housing and neighborhood improvements.
The package includes $238 million for transportation projects such as street resurfacing and congestion mitigation, $100 million for affordable housing initiatives and $61.7 million for neighborhood improvements, including sidewalks and bike paths.
North Carolina State Treasurer Brad Briner, who chairs the Local Government Commission (LGC), announced in a press release that some of the bond proceeds will fund a program called Vision Zero, which aims to reduce traffic deaths.
The Charlotte bonds will be funded through an estimated property tax increase of .25 cents per $100 assessed value.
The commission approved $142 million in general obligation bonds in Wake County for library system improvements. The funds will support renovations of existing facilities, including the Richard B. Harrison and Green Road libraries and financed new construction projects, including a Rolesville library and a digital equity center. The library improvements will require a minimal tax increase of 0.00025 cents per $100 assessed value.
RACE from page A1
will win him the election. Lawyers for Riggs and the state board wanted the board decision upheld.
Pittman’s largely identical orders lacked many details.
“The Court concludes as a matter of law that the Board’s decision was not in violation of constitutional provisions, was not in excess of statutory authority or jurisdiction of the agency, was made upon lawful procedure, and was not affected by other error of law,” Pittman wrote in one order.
Griffin’s protests have ultimately led to litigation in both state and federal court systems.
The focus pivoted to state court earlier this week when a panel of the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said Griffin’s pleas should be heard in state
court because the legal parties’ lawyers “advance diametrically opposed interpretations” of North Carolina law that are the subject of Griffin’s challenges.
Riggs said late Friday that Pittman’s decisions “are a victory for North Carolina voters and the rule of law.” Griffin campaign spokesperson Paul Shumaker said there would be an appeal.
An appeal is likely to reach the state Supreme Court. With Riggs recusing herself from case deliberations, five of the six remaining justices are registered Republicans. Tuesday’s 4th Circuit opinion, however, said that Riggs can return to federal court to plead her case on federal elections and voting rights laws should state court action favor Griffin.
Riggs’ supporters, including top Democrats and voters tar-
Additional LGC approvals included:
• Chapel Hill (Orange County): $44 million for affordable housing, fire stations, streets and parks (no tax increase)
• Union County: $39.4 million for school construction and renovation (0.8 cents tax increase per $100 valuation)
geted by Griffin’s protests, have said Griffin’s effort to overturn the result by disenfranchising eligible voters is an outrageous attack on free elections.
“North Carolina law and North Carolina courts have the power to protect democracy and the rights of the voters of this state,” Riggs’ attorney Ray Bennett told Pittman earlier Friday. “North Carolina law also flatly rejects what Judge Griffin is trying to do here.”
Most of the disputed ballots — about 60,000 — were cast by voters whose registration records lacked either a driver’s license number or the last four digits of a Social Security number. A state law directed election officials to collect them in 2004. Griffin’s attorneys contend the registrations are incomplete and blame the state board for registration forms that for years
• Iredell County: $39 million for new Weathers Creek High School construction (no tax increase)
• Knightdale (Wake County): $14.5 million for public safety facilities consolidation
• Lexington (Davidson County): $3.9 million for Historic Dunbar
didn’t specifically require one of these numbers.
Lawyers for Riggs and the board argued there are many legitimate reasons why the numbers are missing and that the voters are still registered legitimately. An affidavit from a board lawyer filed in court this week said that roughly half of those registrants being challenged actually did provide a number.
Other votes being challenged were cast by hundreds of overseas voters who have never lived in the U.S. and by thousands of military or overseas voters who did not provide copies of photo identification with their ballots.
“The legislature never intended to exempt overseas voters from providing photo ID, and it makes sense for the legislature to have imposed photo ID on everyone voting in the state,”
From left to right, State Auditor Dave Boliek, State Treasurer Brad Briner, State and Local Government Finance Division Deputy Treasurer Debbie Tomasko and Secretary of State Elaine Marshall attend the monthly Local Government Commission meeting Feb. 4 in Raleigh.
School redevelopment
• Pamlico County: $3.7 million for middle/high school consolidation
• Black Mountain (Buncombe County): $500,000 for lead service line inspections
• Kannapolis (Cabarrus/ Rowan counties): $1 million for lead service line inspections
Griffin attorney Troy Shelton said.
Attorneys for the board and Riggs say state and federal laws don’t require these military and overseas voters to provide ID copies. They also agreed that Griffin’s protests failed on procedural grounds: The board’s Democratic majority ruled in part that Griffin failed to provide proper legal notice to voters about their challenged ballots.
Griffin and Riggs both attended Friday’s hearing. A news conference assembled by civil rights groups on the courthouse steps after the hearing included several voters on Griffin’s protest lists.
“No one should be turning a blind eye to this because at any moment it could be your vote, your candidate, your values that are on the line,” Guilford County voter Rachel Arnold said.
The longtime political strategist thinks Thom Tillis’ fate could hang on President Donald Trump’s success and midterm trends
By A.P. Dillon North State Journal
RALEIGH — Earlier this year, longtime political consultant Carter Wrenn sat down for an exclusive interview with North State Journal to discuss his book, “Trail of the Serpent.” During that interview, Wrenn discussed the 2026 North Carolina Senate race in which Republican Sen. Thom Tillis will be seeking reelection.
In an interview on Spectrum News’ Tim Boynum’s “Tying It All Together” podcast, political consultant Paul Shoemaker estimated the Tillis seat race might top $1 billion. Tillis’ 2020 race cost approximately $300 million.
Wrenn said he thought a billion sounded “a little bit through the roof for statewide races,” but he wouldn’t be surprised to see it rise to around $600 million because it will be a “huge fight” to control the Senate in 2026, especially since a lot of outside money will likely be flowing into the race.
“I think that Tillis, his biggest problem is probably the area his fate hinges on (Donald) Trump,” Wrenn said. “If Trump has a good two years and it’s not your classic sort of off-year election where people vote against the guy in the White House, then Tillis has just got a reasonable shot.”
“On the other hand, if it’s an election like 2010, where two years after (Barack) Obama was president, the undecided voters were voting against the Democrats because of Obama, I think if that happens to Tillis because Trump’s unpopular, he’s got a real problem there.”
Shoemaker had also predicted former Gov. Roy Cooper would be the Democrat to challenge Tillis for his seat. In his farewell address, Cooper said he “wasn’t done.”
Cooper has yet to make any definitive claim to running in 2026. However, a report by the conservative outlet National Review says the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee is trying to recruit him. According to the report, sources close to Cooper say he is “definitely going
CELEBRATE from page A1 is also the purpose of this order to take other actions to honor the history of our great Nation,” the order reads.
The order creates the White House Task Force on Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday, which will be chaired by Trump, with Vice President JD Vance serving as vice chair.
The task force also includes 14 high-ranking officials, including various Cabinet secretaries and department heads, and will be responsible for planning and coordinating celebrations and events.
The task force will be housed
to consider the race but just has not made any decisions yet, and it’ll be a little bit before he does.”
“I don’t know about Roy,” Wrenn said, adding that if he were Tillis, he’d be praying it isn’t, citing the fact that Cooper has never lost an election and that “he’s sort of the last of the old Jim Hunt breed of Democrats from a small town in a rural area.”
“And he’s got a unique kind of strength as a candidate. People like him,” Wrenn said of Cooper. “I mean, there’s not two politicians in North Carolina who have a positive favorable rating. Roy does. I don’t know if he’ll run; I just don’t know well enough to say. But if he does, it will be a really tough race.”
Former Congressman Wiley Nickel, who represented North Carolina’s 13th District, is the only Democrat who has already filed for the race. Nickel filed his paperwork with the Federal
under the Department of Defense and will coordinate with various agencies to organize the celebration. All agencies are required to submit reports about their planning and activities related to the anniversary celebration by March 1. Additionally, Trump’s order reinstates two previous executive orders related to the National Garden of American Heroes and calls for expanding the number of historically significant Americans honored in the garden to 250. It also reinstates an executive order protecting American monuments from vandalism, specifically citing recent incidents of
“Are we going to get an off-year election where people don’t want to vote for a Republican because they don’t like Trump?”
Carter Wrenn,
Elections Committee in December 2023 after leaving Congress.
On the Republican side, Triad area businessman Andy Nilsson filed to run Jan. 14. Nilsson is known for co-founding the “Never Trump’’ group called “National Republicans” along with former North Carolina Supreme Court Associate Justice Bob Orr in 2019. Speculation that former Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson might get into the race was dispelled when Robinson announced at the end of January
pro-Hamas-related vandalism and assaults on federal officers in Washington, D.C., in 2024.
In North Carolina, the America 250 North Carolina county grant deadline has been extended to Feb. 28. The grants are designed to support America 250 N.C. programming, research and events.
Questions about the extended deadline or about what work is eligible to receive grants should be directed to Dan Brosz at Dan.Brosz@dncr.nc.gov.
The next quarterly America 250 N.C. stakeholder meeting will take place on Feb. 18 at 10 a.m. via Zoom at tinyurl. com/nsj-250zoom. The pub -
that he was dropping his defamation lawsuit against CNN and wouldn’t seek elected office in the future.
“I will not run next year, nor do I have plans to seek elected office in the future,” Robinson said in a statement.
Wrenn said the fate of the Senate seat may be tied to the direction of the off-year election cycle, recalling the Democratic sweep in 1982, two years after Ronald Reagan was elected. The trend of electing the opposite party of a sitting president was repeated under President Bill Clinton in 1994 and in 2010 under Obama, and it occurred to some extent in both 2018 and 2022.
“But that’s, to me, the big first big question I’d have about the ’26 election,” Wrenn said. “Are we going to get an off-year election where people don’t want to vote for a Republican because they don’t like Trump?”
Wrenn said the economy was
lic can attend using meeting ID 161 460 0520 and passcode A250NC.
Anyone interested in becoming a stakeholder or participating in meetings should contact Leigh Humen at america250nc@dncr.nc.gov.
Moores Creek National Battlefield will be hosting “Living History” events Feb. 22-23 that include musket and cannon demonstrations, battlefield tours and other exhibits. For more information, visit nps. gov/mocr.
Throughout February, PBS North Carolina will be broadcasting an episode of “Travels with Darley” called “Revolution-
also an election driver, but foreign policy was a bigger factor.
“You know, the economy is always an issue. … Foreign policy … you know, when that comes along, people see a foreign threat that scares them,” said Wrenn. “That’s pretty powerful in politics; it’s why Reagan won.”
Wrenn also said the Republican Party needs “good, articulate candidates” and linked 2024 down-ballot losses, such as Dan Bishop’s failed bid for North Carolina attorney general against fellow Congressman Jeff Jackson, to Robinson’s campaign issues.
“I think Bishop lost because of Robinson,” said Wrenn. “I think Robinson hurt him.”
“He’s somebody, as a Republican, he scares me down the road,” Wrenn said of Jackson, adding, “I don’t know who we’ve got on the Republican side that could actually get in there and mount a threat to Tillis.”
ary Road Trip.” The program will “explore Revolutionary War history, Civil War stories, Civil Rights history, and regional cuisines” across North Carolina.
The program will air on the Explorer Channel, the North Carolina channel and PBC North Carolina:
• Explorer Channel: Feb. 8, 7 a.m.; Feb. 11, 9 p.m.; Feb. 12, 8 a.m.; Feb. 24, 6 a.m.
• North Carolina Channel: Feb. 11, 10:30 p.m.; Feb. 12, 3 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
• PBS North Carolina: Feb. 15, 3 p.m.
Electricity powers our lives - from the ordinary to the extraordinary. In North Carolina, our network of 26 local electric cooperatives provide energy to 2.8 million people across the state. But we’re providing so much more than affordable, reliable power. We’re helping to strengthen the people and communities that make our state great - today and for generations to come.
Learn more at NCElectricCooperatives.com
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL
The choice is easy. And it is about to get easier as prosperity and safety return to the main streets of America.
IF YOU WERE an 18-to-21-year-old voter today, which political party would you join?
One major party embraces cryptocurrency; the other does not. (Crypto scares me to death, but young people love it)
One party embraces AI; the other does not. Artificial intelligence may save the Republic by ferreting out all of the waste and duplicative spending, which everyone knows exists in government but has not been able to prove yet ― until DOGE came along.
One party supports entrepreneurship, innovation and making money; the other suppresses all of it.
Is there a more aspirational goal than to land a man on Mars nowadays?
One party says we should go for it; the other whines about who is financing it. Young people see one political party intent on increasing opportunity through lower taxes, far less government control and freedom of speech.
They also see one party that supports the rule of law and the proper separation of powers of our three branches of government.
On the other hand, they see a dark, depressive, angry political party that embraces violence in the streets, willful rejection of established law, open borders and biological men taking over women’s sports. They say because of its past, America is a terrible place to live ― which makes one wonder why they still live here.
The Dark and Depressing Party (DDP) hides everything from public view.
Starting with Barack Obama’s college transcripts (is that really a matter of “national security”?) and ending with a five-year coverup of Joe Biden’s mental health (has his White House physician lost his medical license yet?),
the DDP acts like the Soviet Politburo and lies about everything.
Which party do you think has the most appeal to young people today ― the optimistic, forward-looking Republican Party or the cynical, negative and snarling Democratic Party of the socialist left?
The choice is easy. And it is about to get easier as prosperity and safety return to the main streets of America.
In the summer of 1978. I made such a decision ― and never looked back.
I got my first paycheck in my first “real” job after college ― and was shocked to see 30% of it was just gone.
“What is this ‘FICA’ tax thing all about anyway?” I asked everyone I knew. “Federal withholding ― what’s that? State withholding? FUTA? Health insurance premium deduction?”
I went to a local Democratic precinct meeting, which just happened to be at the house of a prominent Durham City Council member who lived right across the street. I was so infuriated by the dictatorial nature of this haughty precinct boss I changed my registration to Republican the very next morning. I started to pay much closer attention to politics. I saw Democrats blowing themselves up with 12% inflation, sky-high gas prices and 21% interest rates.
And then, in 1979, radical Muslim ayatollahs held 52 Americans hostage in Tehran for 444 days ― and President Jimmy Carter did nothing to save them.
On the other side, I saw former Republican California Gov. Ronald Reagan talking cheerily about how great America was and how we needed more freedom, prosperity and strength on the world stage, not less. His message of
hope, inspiration and excellence was compelling and attractive ― and I decided I wanted to be a part of the Reagan Revolution right then and there. The same thing is happening right now. Young people are put off by all of the identity politics and suppression of speech they have seen Democrats use for the past decade, and they are sick of it. Black and Hispanic voters saw their disposable incomes decline dramatically under the Biden administration, so they voted in dramatic numbers for Donald Trump in 2024, many voting Republican for the first time ever.
Once the borders are sealed and criminals are deported or put in jail, and the economy explodes after the DOGE savings are implemented and interest rates crash due to lack of new federal debt to finance, these voting groups may coalesce into a new Republican majority for the next 50 years much like how the GOP dominated after the Civil War.
Elderly grouches such as Chuck Schumer and Nancy Pelosi, who lead the Democratic Party, are just too angry and backward-looking to be appealing to most people today. If they had one lick of self-awareness, they would heed the words of snarky, sarcastic and grouchy Groucho Marx when he said: “I would never join a club who would have me as a member!”
If I were a young man today, I would never join them. Would you?
EDITORIAL | STACEY
Why the left’s chief complaints about Elon Musk won’t fly
“We are living a nightmare created by Donald Trump and Elon Musk.”
Eiizabeth Warren
AS THE DEPARTMENT of Government Efficiency (DOGE) methodically assesses federal departments one by one, Democrats have been having absolute meltdowns, claiming Twitter/X owner Elon Musk, who heads the advisory committee, is in effect trying to stage a “coup.”
“So at some point, we’ve got to wake up beyond party lines for all Americans to see what’s going on here in this rapidly expanding and accelerating coup,” Rep. Jamie Raskin (DMd.) claimed during a recent interview with MSNBC’s Joy Reid.
On the Senate side, we’ve heard from, among others, Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), who stated without evidence last week, “It is clear that unqualified and unaccountable people have seized control of the flow of taxpayer funds and a trove of extremely sensitive data. They are seizing the tools you need for a coup.”
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) used another key buzzword when she talked about what Musk and his group were allegedly doing.
“When unelected billionaires start ransacking our government offices, this is not business as usual,” she proclaimed during a Senate Democrat press conference on Capitol Hill.
“Nope, nothing is normal. We are living a nightmare created by Donald Trump and Elon Musk. We need to wake up. We need to use every tool we have to fight back,” she said.
The problem with these complaints is that
anytime a new administration takes office, especially if there has been a party switch, you typically see sweeping changes made at the department level by unelected people (cabinet heads, etc.) who are doing so in keeping with the agenda set forth by the new president.
The concept of DOGE came out of a discussion between Trump and Musk in the summer of 2024, and when Trump announced in September that he would create such a department if elected — with the goal of rooting out waste, fraud and abuse — that he’d be open to putting Musk at the head of it.
Musk frequently appeared at campaign events with Trump, and DOGE was something they both routinely brought up in interviews and speeches. And after Trump won the election, he reiterated his commitment to it and followed through with an executive order after his inauguration.
“This Executive Order establishes the Department of Government Efficiency to implement the President’s DOGE Agenda, by modernizing Federal technology and software to maximize governmental efficiency and productivity,” it reads.
So no, the “coup” and “unelected” accusations have no basis in merit. But when you think about it, it sure is rich that Democrats are making these claims for reasons I’ll explain below.
For the four years he was in office, Democrats (and their media allies) tried to cover for then-
President Joe Biden on the issue of his cognitive health by telling us he was sharp as a tack and could run circles around people younger than him.
In reality, as we’ve learned over the last eight months or so, things were so bad that his handlers ran a tight ship in trying to limit his interactions with people, not just with the press but also with members of Congress and world leaders.
“Apparently, it’s a ‘shadow government’ when a president openly tasks Elon Musk with rooting out waste in the federal government, but not when America spends four years with a president in extreme cognitive decline who has everyone around him making the decisions for him,” Greg Price, a member of the Trump 2024 campaign’s rapid response team, wrote in response to the outrage being whipped up by angry Democrats. As the old saying goes, truer words were never spoken.
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.
Four decades later, mediocrity would be an improvement.
JUST HOW MUCH LONGER will American parents, their kids, business leaders and the political class tolerate the dreadful performance of our public schools?
It’s arguably the greatest threat to our nation’s economic health and our national security.
The latest Nation’s Report Card test scores are dismal and heartbreaking.
The crash that started with inexcusable COVID-19-era school closures has continued over a cliff in almost every state.
The top 25% of eighth graders have seen math scores rebound a little bit from 2022, but they’re still below 2019. The other 75% of kids’ scores have remained the same or dropped.
The reading scores were even worse.
Johnny can’t read.
What’s especially troubling is that scores for the lowest-performing students from disadvantaged families have fallen the most. Anyone concerned about income inequality should be protesting from the rafters.
But Washington responded with a giant yawn. The teacher unions predictably called for more money. Per-pupil funding is up by more than 50% after adjusting for inflation in most states since 1980, yet test scores are flat or falling.
Former President Joe Biden added $175 billion in federal education spending, and look what we got for the money.
Nothing.
President Donald Trump should call for a national education emergency. Forty years ago, the federal report card on education warned that our schools were facing a “crisis of mediocrity.”
Four decades later, mediocrity would be an improvement.
Trump has already taken important steps.
He held an education summit last week that I and many of the nation’s governors attended. He has issued an executive order on school choice that would allow parents whose kids attend failing schools to have federal funds to attend higher-performing private and Catholic schools.
There are signs of real progress in some states. Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee just signed into law the most ambitious school choice program in the nation. Texas — with its 5 million schoolchildren — is likely to follow suit in the months ahead.
Louisiana Gov. Jeff Landry is also committed to choice, and his state was one of the few that actually recorded improved test scores. Louisiana has done a wholesale makeover of its learning with a program called “evidence-based curriculum.”
Do what works. What a concept.
It used to be that the education crisis in America was mostly restricted to the inner cities with low-income residents, crime, drugs and mostly uneducated female-headed households. But now even many middle-class suburban areas are falling behind as well. The infection of failure is spreading, and more money is only buying worse results.
Meanwhile, other nations like China and India are focusing their schools on science, technology, engineering and math, and graduating many more math and science majors into the workforce than we are.
It’s being called our 21st-century Sputnik moment, and we’d better win the education race if we’re going to stay the global superpower.
Stephen Moore is a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation. His new book, coauthored with Arthur Laffer, is “The Trump Economic Miracle.”
Democrats decided that American interests had to take a backseat to “blue” interests.
THIS WEEK, a massive firefight broke out between Democrats and Team Trump over the White House takeover of the U.S. Agency for International Development.
The USAID managed approximately $40 billion in fiscal year 2023; its original mandate, established under the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, was to spread American influence across the globe through aid to various governmental and nongovernmental organizations. Over time, however, USAID morphed into a piggy bank for a wide variety of international organizations with agendas ranging from green energy policy to the spread of left-wing gender and racial politics.
President Donald Trump tasked Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) with taking charge of the agency for the purpose of assessing possible cuts. When Musk’s team, including a variety of talented young men, entered the offices, they were barred from access to material by the heads of USAID; Trump fired those officials. Within days, Secretary of State Marco Rubio was made acting director of USAID, with the authority to implement recommended changes from DOGE.
And all hell broke loose.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) accused Musk of leading “an unelected shadow government ... conducting a hostile takeover of the federal government.”
According to Schumer, cuts to AID would undermine “countering terrorist activity” as well as “humanitarian efforts” around the world. “If America retreats from the rest of the world,” Schumer said, “China will fill in the void.”
That may well have been true with decent leadership. But instead, Democrats decided that American interests had to take a backseat to “blue” interests. That’s why USAID embedded “LGBTQI+ Inclusive Development Policy” in its agenda for foreign countries — despite the obvious incompatibility with such radical ideology with America’s interests abroad.
It’s why in 2013, for example, USAID announced that it would funnel $11 million to radical groups to support gay and lesbian
BE IN TOUCH
LAST WEEK President Donald J. Trump hit three home runs.
First, he signed an executive order abolishing the left’s efforts to let men play in women’s sports.
American people favor cutting foreign aid by 56% to 40%, according to a ReutersIpsos poll.
The signing ceremony was the Trump team’s best yet. He was surrounded by women and girls who support women’s athletics. It was a total success. Most Americans perfectly understood and agreed with what he was doing. Even The Washington Post has reported that more than two-thirds of Americans favor keeping men out of women’s and girls’ sports.
Trump then held a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. There, he outlined a stunning, bold, innovative approach to solving problems in Gaza. Trump suggested that America take over Gaza and essentially redevelop the area. It surprised everyone. The Israeli prime minister said it was worth exploring and could represent a dramatically better future for the people of the region.
Finally, Trump took decisive action to take control of the U.S. Agency for International Development. It turns out the agency has been a left-wing piggy bank for imposing radical values on the world.
As White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt pointed out, among other things, USAID has funded “$1.5 million to advance DEI in Serbia’s workplaces, $70,000 for a production of a DEI musical in Ireland, $47,000 for a transgender opera in Colombia, (and) $32,000 for a transgender comic book in Peru.”
Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) said, according to the New York Post, that “USAID is one of the worst offenders of waste in Washington.” Ernst pointed to millions spent by USAID on pottery classes in Morocco, research at the infamous Wuhan lab (the likely origin of the COVID-19 virus) and an effort to create a “Sesame Street” in Iraq.
advocacy in Ecuador, Honduras, Guatemala and other developing countries.
This is indicative of a broader Democratic approach to governance: When Democrats are in charge, they use the levers of government not only to enrich their political friends at home and abroad but to embed those streams of funding into the system for times when they aren’t in charge. Democrats have spent a century building permanent funding mechanisms of this sort:
The hundreds of billions of dollars spent each year via the Department of Education, for example, are largely directed to blueaffiliated “educational” institutions and groups.
But what happens when the new head of the executive branch isn’t content with allowing that blue funding pipeline to continue? What happens when he looks into the spending and finds that taxpayer dollars are being directed toward political ends that are antithetical to his own purposes?
That’s what Democrats are experiencing right now: The massive power base they built and maintained for their own ends is now being run by people they despise. And those people are gutting many of the systems they built.
That’s why panic is setting in: Because while most executive action is by nature transient and reversible, unleashing a wrecking ball against the carefully wrought administrative state isn’t. Trump and Musk are doing something unprecedented on the right: They are keeping their promise to drain the swamp. They are moving fast, and they are breaking things. And the caterwauling from Democrats who supposedly care about America’s interests abroad is actually indicative of something far deeper: a grinding fear that their permanent, bureaucratic structures of power are under existential assault.
Ben Shapiro’s new collection, “Facts and Furious: The Facts About America and Why They Make Leftists Furious,” is available now. Shapiro is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.
According to the newspaper, an inspector general report indicated one USAID contractor called Chemonics leeched roughly $270 million out of the program’s 2019 budget and funneled some of that to terrorists. Dozens of people associated with the program were eventually arrested and indicted for selling USAID-funded products to the black market.
Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) also linked USAID funding to several George Soroslinked groups. He said the agency sent a great deal of money to Gaza — with the knowledge it would eventually be co-opted by Hamas and other terrorist groups.
In fact, there are a host of documented examples in which millions in USAID food assistance meant for refugees in Syria and Ethiopia were sold on the black market to al-Qaeda-linked terrorist groups and war parties in Africa. Despite multiple warnings by various inspectors general at the agency that the aid could not be monitored in violent areas, the food and supplies kept flowing to terrorists.
Of course, the left was outraged by Trump’s effort to dismantle its unaccountable slush fund. Democrats made enormous logical leaps to rally in favor of foreign aid — no matter how stupid, corrupt or self-defeating. Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.) said, “It’s time to fight. And let’s be clear — let us be clear about how we can fight. The Republicans won the White House, they won the House of Representatives, they won the United States Senate. They have majorities across Congress, but we are not powerless. We have agency, and we all must join together and fight in these ways.”
The Democrats’ problem is that the facts — and the American people — overwhelmingly favor a complete overhaul of the USAID bureaucracy. Its spending has been completely outrageous. Even for its legitimate spending, the American people favor cutting foreign aid by 56% to 40%, according to a Reuters-Ipsos poll this month.
The Democrats are going to have a hard time defending these abuses of the American taxpayer.
Trump had an incredibly strong week. Newt Gingrich was a Republican speaker of the House.
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.
Contact a writer or columnist: connect@northstatejournal.com
The governor filed the lawsuit last Friday
By Gary D. Robertson
The Associated Press
RALEIGH —Gov. Josh Stein says more recent laws enacted by state Republicans that erode some gubernatorial appointment powers are “partisan power grabs that thwart North Carolina voters’ decisions at the ballot box.”
The Democratic governor sued House Speaker Destin Hall and Senate leader Phil Berger in Wake County court last Friday, aiming to strike down provisions within wide-ranging legislation that removed his power to fill court vacancies and name members of a commission that regulates companies that offer electricity, natural gas and other services.
The Republican-controlled General Assembly enacted the omnibus legislation in December over then-Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto.
In a news release provided by his office Monday, Stein said that his comfortable gubernatorial election victory in November signals the public wants him to retain powers.
“I filed this lawsuit to ensure
“I filed this lawsuit to ensure that their vote is respected, to restore balance to our state’s branches of government, and to put our Constitution ahead of power grabs.”
Gov. Josh Stein
that their vote is respected, to restore balance to our state’s branches of government, and to put our Constitution ahead of power grabs,” he said. In addition, the lawsuit seeks to throw out state Building Code Council appointment changes that were approved through a veto override last September.
Cooper and Stein had filed two similar lawsuits in December challenging other provisions in the omnibus legislation that took away powers to appoint State Board of Elections members and name a state Highway Patrol commander. Cooper, also a Democrat, filed several lawsuits against GOP leaders over challenges to his
powers during his eight years as governor, with mixed results.
In the latest lawsuit, Stein seeks to have declared unconstitutional the law that places conditions on whom he can appoint to fill vacancies on the seven-member state Supreme Court and 15-member intermediate-level Court of Appeals.
The state constitution says the governor fills judicial vacancies, and based on the language the state’s founders “intended the Governor to hold exclusive, unfettered authority to fill appellate judicial vacancies,” the lawsuit said.
The new law directs the governor to fill an appellate court vacancy from a list of three people offered by the political party with which the departing judge or justice was affiliated. A sitting governor has otherwise filled vacancies with someone from a different party than the departing judge.
The current seven-member Utilities Commission already will soon decrease to five members. Without the December law, the retooled commission would be composed of three members appointed by the governor and two by the General Assembly. The December law, however, would give, starting this summer, one of the gover-
nor’s three appointments to the state treasurer, who is currently Republican Brad Briner.
The law, which also takes away the governor’s authority to pick the commission chairman, violates the constitutional separation of powers doctrine and fails to ensure a governor has enough control over a panel to ensure that “the laws be faithfully executed,” the lawsuit said.
Stein uses similar arguments to challenge changes to the Building Code Council. While the governor would appoint seven of the 13 members, Stein’s lawyers contend he’ll still lack sufficient control over the board because code changes and other actions can’t be approved unless nine members agree.
Spokespersons for Hall and Berger didn’t immediately respond Monday to an email seeking comment on the lawsuit. With similar laws, Republicans have argued that the legislature has historically been the most powerful of the three branches and that executive branch power doesn’t rest with the governor alone.
Action continues for other pending power-shifting lawsuits filed by Cooper, Stein or both. A judge agreed Monday that the lawsuits challenging the Highway Patrol commander and State Board of Elections changes will be heard by panels of three trial judges. The state Court of Appeals will hear arguments next week in a Cooper lawsuit challenging the composition of seven state boards and commissions in a 2023 law.
FUNDS from page A1
nonprofit organization in Mills River that works with 200 food bank partners.
General Assembly leadership has yet to comment on the proposal, and the legislature has thus far passed three rounds of funding totaling more than $1.1 billion.
On Feb. 4, NC State Treasurer Brad Briner announced his agency would begin approving cashflow loans to local governments impacted by Helene. Briner said the loans are part of the $100 million included in the appropriation made by the legislature through the Disaster Recovery Act of 2024.
In his proposal to the General Assembly, Stein noted President Donald Trump’s recent trip to the state and wrote that even though he believes the federal government will be a “strong partner” in recovery, it will take months for the impacted counties to receive that money.
“We cannot remain reactive to temporary solutions and federal program management to drive our response,” Stein wrote. “Rather we must proactively face the challenges confronting the west.”
The governor’s proposal breaks the spending down into five categories:
1. Strengthening the Economy ($295 million)
• $100 million for business recovery grants (up to
$75,000 per business)
• $100 million for local government revenue replacement
• $50 million for partnership grants targeting businesses without taxable sales
• $30 million for small town infrastructure revitalization
• $15 million for tourism promotion
2. Safe and Warm Places to Live ($263 million)
• $150 million for home reconstruction and repair
• $25 million each for rental/ mortgage assistance and homeowner/renter unmet needs
• $10 million for housing stabilization services
• $5 million for affordable housing development
• $3 million for disaster legal services
3. Repairing Infrastructure
($310.6 million)
• $135 million for state facilities repair
• $75 million for private road and bridge repairs
• $25 million each for local parks and flood abatement
• $20 million for state agency operations
• Smaller allocations for debris removal, power backup and septic repairs
4. Supporting Farmers
($146.9 million)
• $100 million for waterway and land rehabilitation
• $16.1 million for fire season preparation
• $15 million for farmer recovery grants
• $12.5 million for farm/forest preservation
• $3.4 million for wildfire risk reduction
5. Families and Children
($56.2 million)
• $34.2 million for K-12 summer learning programs
• $20 million for food bank grants
• $2 million for emergency student aid
Stein’s proposal is in addition to an announcement of $30 million in grants for businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene. The grants are being provided with help from a public-private partnership with Dogwood Health Trust and will be administered by Appalachian Community Capital.
2 people charged in fatal stabbing of Fort Campbell soldier Clarskville, Tenn.
Two people have been charged in the death of a Fort Campbell soldier who was stabbed nearly 70 times last year, police said Saturday. Sofia Rodas, 35, has been charged with first-degree murder and tampering with evidence in the death of U.S. Army Private First Class Katia Dueñas Aguilar, 23, the Clarksville Police Department said in a news release. Reynaldo Salinas Cruz, Aguilar’s husband, has been charged with tampering with evidence in her death. Both Salinas Cruz, 40, and Rodas had been held on unrelated federal charges.
Israel PM Netanyahu pressured to extend Gaza ceasefire
Mughraqa, Gaza Strip New details and growing shock over emaciated hostages renewed pressure Sunday on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to extend a fragile Gaza ceasefire beyond the first phase, even as U.S. President Donald Trump repeated his pledge that the U.S. would take control of the Palestinian enclave. Talks on the second phase, meant to see more hostages released and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, were due to start Feb. 3. But Israel and Hamas appear to have made little progress, even as Israeli forces withdrew Sunday from a Gaza corridor in the latest commitment to the truce.
Grant amounts vary based on business size, with companies earning $1 million or less eligible for up to $25,000, while those with revenue between $1 million and $2.5 million can receive up to $50,000.
Grant funds can be used for various recovery expenses, including physical damage repair and replacement, environmental cleanup, business-related rent or mortgage payments, and employee retention and hiring.
• Eligible businesses must meet the following criteria:
• For-profit status with active registration with the N.C. secretary of state
• Location in one of 30 designated western N.C. counties or the Qualla Boundary
• Operational status as of Sept. 27, 2023
• Annual gross revenue of $2.5 million or less in 2023
• Documented hurricane damage not covered by insurance or other funding
• Current operation or plans to reopen
Additional eligibility criteria and the means to apply can be accessed through the Appalachian Community Capital portal at tinyurl.com/nsj-appcc. All applications need to be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Feb. 21.
Rescuers search for dozens after landslide in southwest China Beijing Chinese rescuers searched for at least 29 people after a landslide on Saturday in southwestern Sichuan province buried 10 houses and forced hundreds of residents to evacuate. The Ministry of Emergency Management deployed hundreds of rescuers following the landslide in a village in Junlian county. Two people were pulled out alive with injuries, and about 200 others were relocated, state broadcaster CCTV said. A manufacturing facility was also buried. The disaster was caused by recent heavy rainfall and geological conditions, authorities said in a news conference on Sunday.
Romanian President Iohannis announces resignation
Bucahrest, Romania
Romanian President Klaus Iohannis announced his resignation Monday following mounting pressure from populist opposition groups, two months after a top court annulled a presidential election in the European Union country. Iohannis, 65, said he will leave office Feb. 12. He held the presidential role since 2014 and served the maximum of two five-year terms. But his presidency was extended in December after the Constitutional Court canceled the presidential race two days before a Dec. 8 runoff. That came after the far-right populist Calin Georgescu unexpectedly won the first round, after which allegations emerged of Russian interference and electoral violations.
China lied about the origin of the tried to tell the world there were only worldwide panic, economic collapse and being thrown out of work.
shelter-in-place or stay-at-home majority of Americans “new normal.” end of this month.
taxpayer at least $2.4 trillion in added Federal Reserve backup liquidity to the the U.S. dollar were not the reserve to fund any of these emergency fear of rampant in ation and currency
fallen into place. I understand the seriousness of the virus and the need to take precautions, but I’m uneasy with how people who simply ask questions about the data, and when things can start getting back to normal are treated in some circles with contempt.
WALTER E. WILLIAMS
ONE THING IS CERTAIN; after this COVID-19 virus dissipates around the globe and in the United States, China will pay for this catastrophe one way or another.
WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home orders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.”
Cooper stated during don’t know yet” if the be asked as to the vague ones like “we people of this state who undetermined thousands of cases asked and then had questions about get asked, there is people to treat those can start getting back or are people who sick. levels become a bad society were supposed course, is my family. I’m worried I will. After the 2009 pandemic, all of this brings up prefer not to repeat. most everyone has
aberrant ways and decisions through Diplomacy has obviously not worked world of 21st century health, hygiene communist regimes never take the blame remorse, because that is not what They take advantage of every weakness pushing until they win or the event happens such as the Chernobyl believe that event, not the Star Wars to the dissolution of the Soviet Union Chernobyl. already talking about the possibility in debt we owe them as one way to get they have caused the US. Don’t hold your “Jubilee” to happen but ask your elected accountable in tangible nancial ways for expected to operate as responsible citizens of nation.
Perhaps COVID-19 is China’s Chernobyl.
They’re treated as though we as a society simply must accept without question what the government tells us about when it’s safe to begin the process of returning back to normalcy.
No. The government works for us, and we have the right to ask those questions. And the longer stay-at-home orders are in place all over the country, and the stricter some of them get in states, such as Michigan, the more people, sitting at home feeling isolated and/or anxious about when they can get back to providing for their families, will demand answers.
AMERICA’S COLLEGES are rife with corruption. The nancial squeeze resulting from COVID-19 o ers opportunities for a bit of remediation. Let’s rst examine what might be the root of academic corruption, suggested by the title of a recent study, “Academic Grievance Studies and the Corruption of Scholarship.” The study was done by Areo, an opinion and analysis digital magazine. By the way, Areo is short for Areopagitica, a speech delivered by John Milton in defense of free speech.
In order to put the crisis caused by China in perspective, zero worldwide pandemics can trace their source to the United States over our 231-year history. At least four in the 20th century alone can be directly traced to China: 1957 “Asian u,” 1968 “Hong Kong u,” 1977 “Russian u” and the 2002 SARS outbreak. There is evidence that the massive 1918 “Spanish u” pandemic also had its origins in China.
Leaders at the local and state levels should be as forthcoming as they can be with those answers — and again, not vague answers, but answer with details that give their statements believability.
We should all continue to do what we can to keep our families, ourselves, and our communities safe. But we should also still continue to ask questions about the data, because while reasonable stay-at-home measures are understandable, they should also have an expiration date.
Not one little bit.
Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A. Lindsay and Peter Boghossian say that something has gone drastically wrong in academia, especially within certain elds within the humanities. They call these elds “grievance studies,” where scholarship is not so much based upon nding truth but upon attending to social grievances. Grievance scholars bully students, administrators and other departments into adhering to their worldview. The worldview they promote is neither scienti c nor rigorous. Grievance studies consist of disciplines such as sociology, anthropology, gender studies, queer studies, sexuality and critical race studies.
The cavalier manner virus, covered up its spread
Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June.
Since when did questioning government at all levels become a bad thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed to do, last I checked.
This is all new to Americans, and it is not normal. Not in any way, shape, or form. So while we should remain vigilant and stay safe, at the same time we shouldn’t get comfortable with this so-called “new normal.”
Honeywell, one of the last remaining U.S. industrial conglomerates, will split into three independent companies, following in the footsteps of manufacturing giants like General Electric and Alcoa.
The company said that it will separate from its automation and aerospace technologies businesses. Including plans announced earlier to spin off its advanced materials business, Honeywell will consist of three smaller entities in hopes that they will each be more agile.
the seriousness of the virus and the need uneasy with how people who simply ask when things can start getting back to circles with contempt.
In 2017 and 2018, authors Pluckrose, Lindsay and Boghossian started submitting bogus academic papers to academic journals in cultural, queer, race, gender, fat and sexuality studies to determine if they would pass peer review and be accepted for publication. Acceptance of dubious research that journal editors found sympathetic to their intersectional or postmodern leftist vision of the world would prove the problem of low academic standards.
“The formation of three independent, industry-leading companies builds on the powerful foundation we have created, positioning each to pursue tailored growth strategies, and unlock significant value for shareholders and customers,” Honeywell Chairman and CEO Vimal Kapur said in a statement.
as a society simply must accept without tells us about when it’s safe to begin the normalcy. us, and we have the right to ask those stay-at-home orders are in place all over the them get in states, such as Michigan, feeling isolated and/or anxious about providing for their families, will demand levels should be as forthcoming as they and again, not vague answers, but answer statements believability. what we can to keep our families, safe. But we should also still continue because while reasonable stay-at-home they should also have an expiration date. and it is not normal. Not in any way, should remain vigilant and stay safe, at comfortable with this so-called “new
Honeywell said in December it was considering spinning off its aerospace division. The public announcement arrived about one month after Elliott Investment Management revealed a stake of more than $5 billion in the aerospace, automation and materials company. Elliott had been pushing for the Charlotte company to separate its automation and aerospace businesses.
The board of Honeywell International Inc. had been exploring strategic options for the company since earlier in 2024.
written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah RedState and Legal Insurrection.
Stacey Matthews has also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah and is a regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection.
Several of the fake research papers were accepted for publication. The Fat Studies journal published a hoax paper that argued the term bodybuilding was exclusionary and should be replaced with “fat bodybuilding, as a fat-inclusive politicized performance.” One reviewer said, “I thoroughly enjoyed reading this article and believe it has an important contribution to make to the eld and this journal.”
The company, which makes everything from eye solution to barcode readers, has been seeking ways to make itself nimbler. Over the past year and a half, just after Kapur took over as CEO, Honeywell has announced plans for the advanced materials business spinoff, entered into an agreement to sell its personal protective equipment business and made several acquisitions.
The separation of the automation and aerospace technologies businesses is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026. The spinoff of the advanced materials business is anticipated to be completed by the end of this year or early next year.
Like Honeywell, other U.S. conglomerates have been pressured by shareholders to simplify their structures, allowing each segment of the company to move more freely and adapt to changes in their respective markets.
The law drops the rate by half a percentage point to 3.5%
By Bruce Schreiner The Associated Press
“Our Struggle Is My Struggle: Solidarity Feminism as an Intersectional Reply to Neoliberal and Choice Feminism,” was accepted for publication by A lia, a feminist journal for social workers. The paper consisted in part of a rewritten passage from Mein Kampf. Two other hoax papers were published, including “Rape Culture and Queer Performativity at Urban Dog Parks.” This paper’s subject was dog-on-dog rape. But the dog rape paper eventually forced Boghossian, Pluckrose and Lindsay to prematurely out themselves. A Wall Street Journal writer had gured out what they were doing.
Some papers accepted for publication in academic journals advocated training men like dogs and punishing white male college students for historical slavery by asking them to sit in silence on the oor in chains during class and to be expected to learn from the discomfort. Other papers celebrated morbid obesity as a healthy life choice and advocated treating privately conducted masturbation as a form of sexual violence against women. Typically, academic journal editors send submitted papers out to referees for review. In recommending acceptance for publication, many reviewers gave these papers glowing praise.
Iconic CEOs like Jack Welch of General Electric spent years building corporate American behemoths with the belief that with scale came power. Yet those massive companies were forced to compete with upstarts with a narrow focus and a more clearly defined set of goals.
In 2015, metals maker Alcoa said that it was splitting into two independent companies, separating its bauxite, aluminum and casting operations from its engineering, transportation and global rolled products businesses.
GE announced in 2021 that it was dividing itself into three public companies focused on aviation, health care and energy. At the time, the move was viewed as a potential signal of the end of conglomerates as a whole.
DEMOCRATIC Gov. Andy Beshear signed a bill into law last Thursday that will reduce Kentucky’s individual income tax, expressing confidence that economic growth will offset the loss in revenue.
That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed to do, last I checked.
The measure, which will lower the tax rate from 4% to 3.5% starting next year, sailed through the Republican-led Legislature in the first five days of its session. Beshear followed through on his pledge to sign off on the cut, which is meant to offer relief to Kentuckians dealing with stubbornly high consumer prices.
“This move will put more money in your pocket while things cost too much,” Beshear
Political scientist Zach Goldberg ran certain grievance studies concepts through the Lexis/Nexis database, to see how often they appeared in our press over the years. He found huge increases in the usages of “white privilege,” “unconscious bias,” “critical race theory” and “whiteness.”
Since when did questioning government at all levels become a bad thing?
Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month.
THIS WEEK, according to members and state and local governments, Americans the curve in the novel coronavirus outbreak. muted — after all, trends can easily reverse have abided by recommendations and orders. to stay at home; they’ve practiced social they’ve donned masks.
Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during a recent coronavirus press brie ng that “we just don’t know yet” if state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May.
There is 100% agreement, outside of China, that COVID-19 originated in Wuhan Province probably from the completely unregulated and unsanitary wet markets. Some believe it came out of a biowarfare lab run by the communist Chinese army.
Until China adopts rigorous veri able policing and regulation of their food safety and health protocols, American business has no other choice than to build redundant manufacturing plants elsewhere purely for national security and safety reasons as well as supply and delivery reliability concerns.
“THIS IS in it” (Psalm I know that working from be glad” as and dad, the have to be pandemic.
The D.C. midair collision was the first deadly commercial crash in the U.S. since 2009
By Josh Funk The Associated Press
All of this is being taught to college students, many of whom become primary and secondary school teachers who then indoctrinate our young people.
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
We need transparency and honesty from our scienti c experts — we need to know what they know, what they don’t and when they hope to know what they don’t.
The result: a reduction in expected hospitalization
If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked as to the justi cation for it. And the answers should not be vague ones like must do this out of an abundance of caution.”
I doubt whether the coronaviruscaused nancial crunch will give college and university administrators, who are a crossbreed between a parrot and jelly sh, the guts and backbone to restore academic respectability. Far too often, they get much of their political support from campus grievance people who are members of the faculty and diversity and multicultural administrative o ces.
The best hope lies with boards of trustees, though many serve as yes-men for the university president. I think that a good start would be to nd 1950s or 1960s catalogs. Look at the course o erings at a time when college graduates knew how to read, write and compute, and make them today’s curricula. Another helpful tool would be to give careful consideration to eliminating all classes/majors/minors containing the word “studies,” such as women, Asian, black or queer studies. I’d bet that by restoring the traditional academic mission to colleges, they would put a serious dent into the COVID-19 budget shortfall.
THE SPATE of recent aviation disasters and close calls have people worried about the safety of flying. The midair collision that killed 67 near Washington, the fiery plane crash in Philadelphia and now a missing plane in Alaska are only the most high-profile disasters. There was also a Japan Airlines plane that clipped a parked Delta plane while it was taxiing at the Seattle airport earlier this week, and a United Airlines plane caught fire during takeoff at the Houston airport Sunday after an engine problem sparked a fire on the wing. That’s not even to mention the security concerns that arose after stowaways were found dead inside the wheel wells of two planes and aboard two other flights. And don’t forget about the time that a passenger opened an emergency exit door on a plane while it was taxiing for takeoff in Boston. So, of course, people are
Walter E. Williams is a professor of economics at George Mason University.
The most direct way to make China “pay” for this disaster is to o er U.S. tax credits to companies who will source at least half of their production back in the United States. There is approximately $120 billion worth of American direct investment in plants and equipment in China. Chinese direct investment in the U.S. is about $65 billion by comparison.
It will need to be explained in detail to the people of this state are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined amount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of are reliable.
According to the University of Washington Metrics and Evaluation model most oft Trump administration, the expected need peak outbreak was revised down by over ventilators by nearly 13,000 and the number August by nearly 12,000.
Here’s the problem: We still don’t know questions that will allow the economy to
3,341 related deaths has millions of Americans needlessly The crisis has cost the debt plus trillions more markets and nancial outlets. currency, we would not measures without immediate depreciation. China has to pay for their economic and nancial to bring China into the and fair trade. Totalitarian or express sincere regret totalitarian governments they nd in adversaries adversaries push back. That is, unless an exogenous meltdown in 1986. Some program of Reagan, led in 1989.
To date, I’ve gone along with what the state has asked and then mandated that we do, but along the way I’ve also had questions about the data. State Republican leaders have, too.
Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treat those simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting to normal as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who otherwise don’t care if they get themselves or others sick.
An investment tax credit of 30% on half of U.S. investment in China today, or $60 billion, applied to repatriated American manufacturing investment to the U.S. would cost the U.S. Treasury $18 billion in tax revenue spread over a few years. $18 billion in lost revenue is decimal dust compared to the $6 trillion+ Marshall Plan we are now undertaking to save our own economy, not of defeated enemies as in the past.
Lenten and Easter seasons provide a message of hope that we will once again enjoy sporting events, concerts, family gatherings, church services and many more after our own temporary sacri ces are over.
First, what is the true coronavirus fatality important because it determines whether be open or closed, whether we ought to pursue more liberalized society that presumes wide ought to lock down further.
For me, making. As Corinthians a iction, so a iction, with God.” If you are re ect on this God’s example this di cult con dent we In this same neighbors In Concord, money to buy health care
Since when did questioning government at all levels become a thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed to do, last I checked.
My rst concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After su ering from the H1N1 virus (swine u) during the 2009 pandemic, I’ve been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings way too many memories of a painful experience I’d prefer not to
We’ve seen case fatality rates — the number the number of identi ed COVID-19 cases and the denominator are likely wrong. We people have actually died of coronavirus. number has been overestimated, given that of death, particularly among elderly patients, sources suggest the number is dramatically many people are dying at home.
Perhaps COVID-19 is Senators in Washington of China forgiving $1.2 China to “pay” for the damage breath waiting for a Chinese representatives to hold this disaster. It is about time they are the world like any other
Even more importantly, we have no clue actually have coronavirus. Some scientists of identi ed cases could be an order of magnitude number of people who have had coronavirus
But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone
China has been cheating, stealing, pirating and pillaging American business now for the past 30 years. They have made no secret that they intend to replace the U.S. as the premier superpower in the world and replace the dollar as the reserve currency with their renminbi.
WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home orders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.”
said at his weekly news conference at the Statehouse.
“THIS IS THE DAY the lord has made, in it” (Psalm 118:24).
Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June.
Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during a recent coronavirus press brie ng that “we just don’t know yet” if the state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May.
The income tax cut was a top Republican priority and is the latest of its kind since the GOP gained full control of the Legislature in 2017.
Supporters say the lower rate will promote long-term economic growth and population gains in the Bluegrass State by enabling people to keep more of the money they earn.
I know that during this challenging time working from home or losing a job, it may be glad” as the Bible tells us to do. However, and dad, the Easter holiday has reminded have to be thankful and hopeful for, even pandemic.
If he does decide to extend it, questions should be asked as to the justi cation for it. And the answers should not be vague ones like “we must do this out of an abundance of caution.”
publican lawmakers say those successes resulted from business-friendly policies they passed.
It will need to be explained in detail to the people of this state who are being told to remain jobless and at home for an undetermined amount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of cases are reliable.
Beshear noted last Thursday that an analysis estimated that the half-percentage point cut would reduce the state’s general fund revenues by $718 million annually once it is fully implemented. The general fund pays for most state services, including education, health care and public safety.
“I feel really good about where we’re at, where we’re going and the plan we have in place to make sure we even make the system safer and more efficient than it is today.”
Sean Duffy, Transportation secretary
For me, my faith is an important part making. As I celebrated Easter with my Corinthians 1:4, which reminds us our Lord a iction, so that we may be able to comfort a iction, with the comfort which we ourselves God.”
To date, I’ve gone along with what the state has asked and then mandated that we do, but along the way I’ve also had questions about the data. State Republican leaders have, too.
General fund tax receipts in December were up 4.5% from the same period a year ago, the state budget director’s office reported last month. Receipts increased 1.7% for the first six months of the fiscal year that ends June 30.
fallen into place. I understand to take precautions, but questions about the data, normal are treated in some They’re treated as though question what the government process of returning back No. The government questions. And the longer country, and the stricter the more people, sitting when they can get back answers.
If you are celebrating the Easter season, re ect on this message and be comforted, God’s example and comfort all those in this di cult time. Through faith and by con dent we will emerge out of this pandemic
Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there is sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treat those simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting back to normal as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who otherwise don’t care if they get themselves or others sick.
economic downturn. Beshear sounded confident the state can absorb the revenue loss.
Lenten and Easter seasons provide a message of hope that we will once again enjoy sporting events, concerts, family gatherings, church services and many more after our own temporary sacri ces are over.
“I believe that with the growth we’re seeing in certain areas of revenue, that we’re going to be able to manage that,” he said.
Democratic lawmakers were divided on the bill, with critics of the cut saying the lost revenue would jeopardize essential services in times of an
In this same spirit, I continue to be inspired neighbors helping neighbors.
Since when did questioning government at all levels become a bad thing? That is what free citizens living in a free society were supposed to do, last I checked.
My rst concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. I’m worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will. After su ering from the H1N1 virus (swine u) during the 2009 pandemic, I’ve been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings up way too many memories of a painful experience I’d prefer not to repeat.
Beshear pointed to the influx of private-sector investment and jobs added in Kentucky in recent years. Re -
The push for tax cuts in Kentucky comes as President Donald Trump has proposed tax cuts for individuals and businesses while governors and lawmakers in some states are seeking to cut more. The movement for more tax cuts comes after most states already have slashed income, sales or property taxes in recent years, and it’s pressing ahead even though state revenue growth has been slowing or stagnating.
Leaders at the local and can be with those answers with details that give their We should all continue ourselves, and our communities to ask questions about the measures are understandable, This is all new to Americans, shape, or form. So while the same time we shouldn’t normal.”
In Concord, a high school senior named money to buy a 3-D printer and plastic health care workers out of his own home.
Not one little bit.
Stacey Matthews has also and is a regular contributor
Since the passage of a tax
But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has
wondering whether their flight is safe.
What happened in the worst incidents?
The Jan. 29 collision between an American Airlines passenger jet and an Army helicopter killed everyone aboard both aircraft. It was the deadliest plane crash in the U.S. since Nov. 12, 2001, when a jet slammed into a New York City neighborhood just after take -
off, killing all 260 people on board and five on the ground. There hadn’t been a deadly crash of any kind involving a U.S. airliner since February 2009. Crashes are more common involving smaller planes like the single-engine Cessna that crashed in Alaska on Thursday. Ten people, including the pilot, were killed.
A medical transportation plane crashed in Philadelphia on Jan. 31, killing the six
people onboard and another person on the ground. That Learjet generated a massive fireball when it smashed into the ground in a neighborhood not long after taking off from a small airport nearby.
How worried should I be?
Fatal crashes attract ex-
traordinary attention partly because they are rare. The track record of U.S. airlines is remarkably safe, as demonstrated by the long stretch between deadly crashes.
But deadly crashes have happened more recently elsewhere around the world, including one in South Korea that killed all 179 people aboard in December. There were also two fatal crashes involving Boeing’s troubled 737 Max jetliner in 2018 and 2019. And last January, a door plug blew off a 737 Max while it was in flight, raising more questions about the plane.
Federal officials have been raising concerns about an overtaxed and understaffed air traffic control system for years, especially after a series of close calls between planes at U.S. airports. Among the reasons they have cited for
Some economists are worried about threats of a trade war
By Paul Wiseman
The Associated Press
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. employers added just 143,000 jobs last month, but the unemployment rate fell to 4%.
The first monthly jobs report of Donald Trump’s second presidency points to a solid but unspectacular labor market. January job creation dipped from the 261,000 added in November and 307,000 in December. Economists had expected about 170,000 new jobs in January.
The outlook is uncertain as Trump prepares to shake up economic policymaking by cutting federal jobs, imposing big taxes on foreign goods and deporting millions of undocumented workers.
For now, most Americans still enjoy unusual job security. But for those looking for work, the job hunt has been getting harder compared with the red-hot hiring days of 2021 to 2023. Average hourly wages rose by 0.5% from December and 4.1% from January 2024, a bit hotter than forecasters had expected. That may be disappointing for the inflation fighters at the Federal Reserve. Still, some inflationary pressure from wage gains is being offset by U.S. productivity growth, which allows companies to pay more and earn fatter profits without raising prices.
“There is no cause for concern about the strength of the economy in today’s employment report,’’ Carl Weinberg and Mary Chen of High Frequency Economics wrote while citing the strong upward revisions from late 2024.
But they added that hiring in recent months suggests the Fed will be in no hurry to cut interest rates after doing so three times in 2024.
January hiring was narrow. Health care (44,000 new jobs), retail (34,000) and government (32,000) together accounted for 77% of new jobs last month. Mines shed 8,000 jobs.
South Carolina bans manufacturers from selling vehicles directly to consumers
By Jeffrey Collins The Associated Press
BLYTHEWOOD, S.C — Volkswagen-backed Scout Motors is making a massive bet in the electric SUV market with a carefully cultivated experience that will allow some customers to buy the company’s vehicle in minutes on an app and then use it to handle everything after, from repairs to updates.
But without some help from lawmakers, that will be impossible in South Carolina, where the company is pouring billions into its new auto plant and a Scout Motors experience like BMW’s test track in Greer.
In a world where almost everything can be bought online, automobiles remain an exception. Supporters of the dealership model say the experience allows buyers to compare prices across several businesses.
Unlike a pair of pants, where color, style and size are about the only concerns, buying a car involves financing, state registration, taxes, regulations — and often a test drive.
South Carolina is one of about two dozen states that ban manufacturers from selling vehicles directly to consum-
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staffing shortages are uncompetitive pay, long shifts, intensive training and mandatory retirements.
President Donald Trump added to those concerns last Thursday when he blamed the midair collision on the “obsolete” air traffic control system that airports rely on and promised to replace it. But even with all that, Trans-
ers and instead require all new autos be purchased through a dealer. Scout would like to see that practice changed nationwide for all EV makers and figured it could start in its new backyard.
South Carolina also bans manufacturers from owning their own service centers, which means anyone who wants to own a Scout SUV must travel to another state to have it repaired or serviced.
The dealership structure requires local business owners to back what they sell and assure buyers get quality service on their vehicles. Auto dealers often have close ties to their communities, and cities could lose one of their biggest businesses and heftiest taxpayers.
“If for some reason the car is a lemon or the job isn’t getting done, they are the folks who live there, who pay their taxes and send their kids to school,” said Republican state Sen. Larry Grooms, who runs the South Carolina Senate Transportation Committee where any bill changing the rules would likely end up.
Scout is determined to get the law changed to help them and other EV makers like Tesla and Rivian. They have gone on a media blitz that includes stories in local outlets. They are also trying to secure support in a Republican-dominated state
portation Secretary Sean Duffy went on Fox News earlier this week and tried to assure viewers that air travel is “way safer than traveling in a car and train. This is the safest mode of transportation.” And the statistics back that up. The National Safety Council estimates that Americans have a 1-in-93 chance of dying in a motor vehicle crash, while deaths on airplanes are too
The Labor Department said the Los Angeles wildfires and a cold snap in the Northeast and Midwest had “no discernable” impact on the January jobs numbers.
The future is cloudier.
A federal judge last Thursday temporarily blocked President Donald Trump’s plan to push out federal workers using financial incentives. A federal hiring freeze that Trump imposed Jan. 20 is a “negative for employment growth,’’ Bradley Saunders, an economist at Capital Economics, wrote.
Economists are also worried about Trump’s threats of a trade war against other coun-
tries. He’s already imposed a 10% tax on imports from China and is threatening tariffs on Canada, Mexico and the European Union, along with a possible universal levy on all imports.
Tariffs paid by U.S. importers, but typically passed along to customers, could heat up inflation — which has fallen from the four-decade high it reached in mid-2022 but is seemingly stuck above the Fed’s 2% target.
The job market has already lost momentum. American payrolls increased by 2 million last year, down from 2.6 million in 2023, 4.6 million in 2022 and a record 7.2 million in 2021 as the economy re -
covered from COVID-19 lockdowns. Employers are posting fewer jobs, and monthly job openings have tumbled from a record 12.2 million in March 2022 to 7.6 million in December — still a decent number by historical standards.
Aujanique Star, 20, of Fife, Washington, is a prenursing student who has been trying to switch from her caregiving job to a position in retail for nearly a year. But after submitting as many as 20 applications, she just keeps facing rejections.
“It makes me feel more frustrated that I have all this work experience and all this loyalty towards my jobs. ... What am I missing?” she said.
As the labor market cools, American workers are losing confidence in their ability to find better pay or working conditions by changing jobs. The number of people quitting has fallen from a record 4.5 million near the height of the hiring boom in April 2022 to December’s 3.2 million, which is below pre-pandemic levels.
In regular annual revisions, the Labor Department reported that job creation from April 2023 through March 2024 wasn’t as good as originally reported: 589,000 fewer jobs were created over those 12 months. Preliminary estimates, released in August, had suggested the downward revisions would be bigger — 818,000 jobs.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt last Friday said the economy during Joe Biden’s presidency “was far worse than anyone thought.”
Trump is banking on tax cuts and regulatory curbs to bolster the economy. But his freezes on federal funding could halt infrastructure projects and manufacturing. His tariffs could hurt the retail sector, and his spending cuts could limit hiring in the health care and government sectors.
with an argument that consumers should be free to buy whatever they wish directly, without a middleman.
Scout also is armed with a 2000 Attorney General’s Office opinion on the bill which weeks later would become law and serve as the most recent major overhaul to South Carolina’s laws on new car buying.
“If a manufacturer cannot sell his own product but must constitutionally pass that product through a ‘middleman,’ then our understanding of the free-market system is way off base. The Internet is a worldwide web for trade, not a local instrument for protectionism,” wrote then-Republican state Attorney General Charlie Condon in the opinion, which is not binding and an educated guess on what a judge might do if someone sued over the law.
Scout officials say using a
rare to calculate the odds. Figures from the U.S. Department of Transportation tell a similar story. What is being done?
The National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration are investigating these recent crashes and close calls to determine what caused them and look for ways to prevent similar incidents.
dealership-only business model would make the vehicles aimed at the under-$60,000 market too expensive and complicate what the company wants to be a seamless experience.
Gov. Henry McMaster touts the Scout plant in Blythewood as one of his biggest economic development scores. The Republican has been to both the February 2024 groundbreaking of the massive facility and this month’s ceremony to mark work starting on a new $150 million interstate interchange the state is paying for to help get workers, parts and new SUVs in and out.
McMaster recently said he wants to protect dealers, but he wants to let Scout sell directly, too.
“Over the last few years with the internet and Amazon and all the other customers are looking for their freedom and that ability to order things di-
There have already been troubling revelations about the midair collision, but it will take more than a year to get the full report on what happened.
The NTSB always recommends steps that could be taken to prevent crashes from happening again, but the agency has a long list of hundreds of previous recommendations that have been ignored by other government agencies and the industries it investigates.
Scout Motors shows off one of its older gasolinepowered models at a ceremony to celebrate the start of construction of its new electric SUV in Blythewood, South Carolina.
rect without a middleman,” McMaster said.
Scout is trying to find a niche in a growing but uncertain U.S. electric vehicle market. President Donald Trump’s election could threaten the industry. The original Scout Motors made gasoline-powered vehicles for about 20 years when it was owned by International Harvester. The new Scout Motors is trying to tap into a mix of nostalgia and technology. Key to Scout’s success will be its app, Scout Vice President of Growth Cody Thacker said. He envisions a Scout buyer scrolling through types and colors, performance and comfort options and hundreds of other choices. Financing, titling and paperwork would all be handled in minutes instead of the hours it takes at dealerships. That custom SUV could then be delivered to the buyer’s door.
But Duffy said the public is right to say that crashes like the recent ones are unacceptable. That is why he plans to make sure “safety is paramount” as he leads the agency that regulates all modes of transportation.
“I feel really good about where we’re at, where we’re going and the plans we have in place to make sure we even make the system safer and more efficient than it is today,” Duffy said in the Fox interview.
By Seth Borenstein and Alexa St. John The Associated Press
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Saving the planet is so 2024. Clean energy leaders across the globe are now tailoring their messages to emphasize the greener side of green: wealth-building. It’s an idea that sells far better in the new world of nationalism and tycoon leaders.
Messaging from the U.S. renewable energy industry and the United Nations on climate change has typically focused on the urgent need to cut greenhouse gas emissions for the sake of environmental and human health. To bolster the argument, they cite record-shattering heat around the world, the frequent climate disasters costing billions of dollars and the human toll of it all.
But a sharper emphasis on profit potential has become evident as President Donald Trump stormed into office with a flurry of rollbacks to clean energy initiatives and an emphatic declaration of plans to “unleash” oil, gas and mining. In a lobbying blitz in Washington, D.C., last week, solar, wind, hydropower and other clean-energy interests touted their role in a “robust American energy and manufacturing economy” and sported lapel pins that said “American energy dominance” — a favorite Trump phrase.
Meanwhile, in a major policy speech last Thursday in Brazil, the U.N.’s top climate official played up the $2 trillion flow-
ing into clean-energy projects and recalled a friend telling him that appealing to people’s “better angels” only goes so far.
That friend, according to U.N. Climate Executive Secretary Simon Stiell, added: “In the great horserace of life ... ‘always back self-interest ... what’s in it for me.’ “
It’s not that clean energy backers haven’t made the case before. But a different landscape, especially in the U.S., stands to make it more potent.
“It’s a very winning message for outreach to conservatives because it’s really true,” said former U.S. Rep. Bob Inglis, a South Carolina Republican who founded the conservative climate group RepublicEN. org. “If we play our cards right and lead the world to this, we can create a lot of wealth, create a lot of jobs here in America.”
Inglis pointed to Elon Musk’s empire-building on electric cars, solar panels and batteries.
“When right-of-center peo-
ple hear, ‘You know, you can make a profit at this,’ then it makes sense. Otherwise, it’s like, why are people giving stuff away?” Inglis said.
Jobs have long been a big selling point for solar and wind energy and electric cars, but there’s a push to not think of self-interest as a dirty word and instead to harness it, United Nations officials said. When Stiell mentioned the $2 trillion in his speech for clean energy, he called it “unstoppable because of the colossal scale of economic opportunity it presents.”
Princeton University climate scientist Michael Oppenheimer, who is also a professor of international affairs, said climate change is such a difficult problem: “If some people feel the need to cater to narrower self-interests which can be bundled into a solution to the problem, why not?”
In letters and at more than 100 congressional meet-
ings this week, industry leaders from the Solar Energy Industries Association, Oceantic Network and other organizations appealed to keep crucial tax incentives in place so their projects can be globally competitive.
The appeal targets lawmakers who might dismiss climate change but be open to an economic rationale, said Jessie Stolark, executive director of the Carbon Capture Coalition.
“In the past administration, obviously, we emphasized the common interest around climate mitigation,” Stolark said.
“The messaging with this current administration and with the Republicans is shifting more to that energy piece, the economic piece, the jobs piece.
“I think you want to meet an audience where they are, what’s important to them, what’s going to drive the conversation forward.”
Liz Beardsley, senior policy counsel at the U.S. Green Building Council that was part of the sweeping lobbying effort, said the economy has always been a core component of its messages, and that “doing good is also good for business.”
To Lisa Sachs, director of the Columbia Center on Sustainable Investment, messaging that climate efforts were strictly for the planet was actually disingenuous.
“The honesty and coherence of the business and financial sectors in making the economic case for the transition is refreshing, at least, after years of doublespeak, greenwashing and confusion,” Sachs said.
“It’s not a perfect strategy from a climate or social perspective, as the private sector cannot on its own fully decarbonize the economy. ... But under this administration, it’s probably our best bet for progress.”
“Banging on about the catastrophic climate crisis is obviously doing no good at all,” said climate historian Joanna Depledge.
There are concerns the Chinese government could use it for surveillance and misinformation
By Matt Brown The Associated Press
WASHINGTON, D.C. —
A bipartisan duo in the U.S. House is proposing legislation to ban the Chinese artificial intelligence app DeepSeek from federal devices, similar to the policy already in place for the popular social media platform TikTok.
Reps. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.) and Darin LaHood (R-Ill.) last Thursday introduced the “No DeepSeek on Government Devices Act,” which would ban federal employees from using the Chinese AI app on government-owned electronics. They cited the Chinese government’s ability to use the app for surveillance and misinformation as reasons to keep it away from federal networks.
“The Chinese Communist Party has made it abundantly clear that it will exploit any tool at its disposal to undermine our national security, spew harmful disinformation, and collect data on Americans,” Gottheimer said in a statement.
“We simply can’t risk the CCP infiltrating the devices of our government officials and jeopardizing our national security.”
The proposal comes after the Chinese software company in December published an AI model that performed at a
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overhaul in 2022, the individual income tax in Kentucky has gradually been reduced by increments of a half-percentage point, conditioned on meeting benchmarks to ensure revenues are sufficient to meet state spending needs.
competitive level with models developed by American firms like OpenAI, Meta, Alphabet and others. DeepSeek purported to develop the model at a fraction of the cost of its American counterparts. A January research paper about DeepSeek’s capabilities raised alarm bells and prompted debates among policymakers and leading Silicon Valley financiers and technologists.
DeepSeek has computer code that could send some user login information to a Chinese state-owned telecommunications company that has been barred from operating in the United States, according to the security research firm Feroot.
Gottheimer cited security concerns as the main reason for introducing the bill.
“It was enough of an alarm that I thought we should immediately ban it on all government devices and make it clear to the public of the risks. I think that’s a critical first step,” Gottheimer told The Associated Press. “Americans should know the impact on their personal privacy and data, especially because we know that Americans are sharing proprietary information on AI chatbots, highly sensitive information, documents, contracts, and the like.”
Gottheimer added that he believed all members of Congress should be briefed on DeepSeek’s surveillance capabilities and that Congress should further investigate its capabilities.
The churn over AI is coming at a moment of heightened competition between the U.S. and China in a range of
As part of that overhaul, the state sales tax was extended to apply to more services. Critics say lower-income families were hurt the most by applying the sales tax to more services.
During a state Senate debate on the income tax cut this week, several Republicans said the latest reduction was anoth-
“We simply can’t risk the CCP infiltrating the devices of our government officials and jeopardizing our national security.”
Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.)
areas, including technological innovation. The U.S. has levied tariffs on Chinese goods, restricted Chinese tech firms like Huawei from being used in government systems and banned the export of state-ofthe-art microchips thought to be needed to develop the highest end AI models.
Last year, Congress and then-President Joe Biden approved a divestment of the popular social media platform TikTok from its Chinese parent company or face a ban across the U.S.; that policy is now on hold. President Donald Trump, who originally proposed a ban on the app in his first term, signed an executive order last month extending a window for a long-term solution before the legally required ban takes effect.
In 2023, Biden banned TikTok from federal-issued devices.
“The technology race with the Chinese Communist Party is not one the United States can afford to lose,” LaHood said in a statement. “This commonsense, bipartisan piece of legislation will ban the app from federal workers’ phones while closing backdoor operations the
er step toward what they hope is the ultimate result — eliminating the individual income tax altogether. Beshear’s record on tax cuts is more complicated. He signed an earlier half-point cut in the personal income tax in 2023. He vetoed the tax overhaul in 2022, objecting to pro -
Quiksilver, Billabong, Volcom operator files for bankruptcy
New York
Liberated Brands, which has operated stores for surfer and skater-inspired labels like Quiksilver, Billabong and Volcom, filed for bankruptcy and plans to shutter its locations across the U.S. The company says it’s winding down its North American business after struggling with a series of macroeconomic shocks, supply chain troubles and falling profits due to “fast fashion” rivals. The company has confirmed that more than 100 stores will close after a liquidation process is complete, but brands like Quiksilver, Billabong and Volcom aren’t going away.
Amazon to settle for nearly $4M in driver tips lawsuit
Amazon has agreed to pay nearly $4 million to settle charges that the e-commerce company subsidized its labor costs by taking tips its delivery drivers received from customers. The settlement was announced Friday by the District of Columbia’s attorney general. Amazon paid almost $62 million in 2021 to resolve similar allegations from the Federal Trade Commission. The affected drivers in both cases were people who delivered Amazon packages with their own cars. D.C.’s lawsuit said the company represented to consumers that all tips added during check-out for Amazon Flex orders would go to drivers but used large portions of the money to offset drivers’ earnings.
Wisconsin couple sues Walgreens, Optum Rx La Crosse, Wis.
company seeks to exploit for access. It is critical that Congress safeguard Americans’ data and continue to ensure American leadership in AI.”
The bill would single out DeepSeek and any AI application developed by its parent company, the hedge fund High-Flyer, as subject to the ban. The legislation includes exceptions for national security and research purposes that would allow federal employers to study DeepSeek.
Some lawmakers wish to go further. A bill proposed last week by Sen. Josh Hawley (RMo.) would bar the import or export of any AI technology from China writ large, citing national security concerns.
Several countries have moved to ban DeepSeek’s AI chatbot, either entirely or on government devices, citing security concerns.
Last month, Italy’s data protection authority blocked access to the application in a move it said would protect users’ data and announced an investigation into the companies behind the chatbot. Taiwan announced this week that it banned government departments from using Deepseek’s AI. South Korea’s industry ministry has also temporarily blocked employee access to the app. This week Australia announced that it banned DeepSeek from government systems and devices.
In Texas, Gov. Greg Abbott issued an order banning both DeepSeek and RedNote — a Chinese TikTok alternative — from the state’s government-issued devices.
visions that extended the state sales tax to more services. But Republican legislators easily overrode the veto. As an alternative, the governor supported an unsuccessful effort to temporarily cut the state sales tax rate to take some of the sting out of rising inflation that fueled higher consumer prices.
A Wisconsin couple is suing Walgreens and a pharmacy benefits company, alleging their son died because he couldn’t afford a sudden $500 jump in the cost of his asthma medication. Shanon and William Schmidtknecht filed the federal lawsuit on Jan. 21, a year after the death of their 22-year-old son, Cole. They allege that Optum Rx stopped covering his $66 asthma medication without informing him. When he stopped at a Walgreens pharmacy in Appleton to refill his prescription, he was told new medication would cost him $539. He couldn’t afford it and suffered a fatal asthma attack days later. Optum Rx said last April that Cole did fill a prescription that day for a different asthma medication.
Waffle House adds 50 cent egg surcharge
New York
The Waffle House restaurant chain is temporarily putting a 50-cent-per-egg surcharge in place because of the biggest bird flu outbreak in a decade. The restaurant, typically a reliable spot for a cheap breakfast, said that the resulting egg shortage has led to a dramatic increase in its costs. Bird flu is forcing farmers to slaughter millions of chickens a month, pushing U.S. egg prices to more than double their cost in the summer of 2023.
NCDOT CASH REPORT FOR THE WEEK ENDING FEB. 7
Beginning Cash $2,632,606,394 Receipts (income) $199,236,800 Disbursements $118,794,213 Cash Balance $2,713,042,082
Martin and Taylor acoustics hang like paintings in Casino
By Dan Reeves North State Journal
SOUTHERN PINES — Local boy excels in the arts, masters multiple instruments and takes his talents to New York City. Bands like the Strokes, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Interpol and LCD Soundsystem are exploding on the scene, reshaping independent music forever. There, he gains notoriety as a formidable musical artist, collaborating with the aforementioned bands, forms indie outfit The Blondes Inc. and tours with Richard Lloyd, formerly of seminal New York band Television.
He eventually returns to the Sandhills, carrying with him the erudite coolness and experience of a graduate from decades as a New York musician. He opens a humble establishment and teaches lessons in the bedroom community of Southern Pines. His dreams of finding beautiful guitars for players of all skill levels to fall in love with come true as Casino Guitars takes off. He and his partners, all studied guitar enthusiasts, launch a YouTube channel that gains nearly 70,000 subscribers and pulls hundreds of thousands of viewers tuning in from all over the world.
Locals and visitors pop in for a lesson, demo any of Casino’s growing collection of fine electric and acoustic guitars or talk music with the jovial staff of local experts. His wife of 16 years is co-owner and handles accounting for the store. She’s also the mayor of Southern Pines, dutifully handling the rigors of public office. One minute, its zoning boards and building codes, the next its tracking an invoice for a 1952 Fender Telecaster.
It may sound like a screenwriter’s pitch to TV networks to make the next “Parks and Recreation” or “The Office,” but the story of Casino Guitars and Baxter Clement, the young musician who grew up in Southern Pines, is true — and twice as interesting.
The entity he created and nourishes with his family of partners, the stunning inventory of instruments Casino stocks, and its reputation as a welcoming, community-focused establishment is unlike anything in the Southeast or maybe the country.
Authentic as the people who work and shop there, the space was dubbed “Casino Guitars” in 2015 to honor the structure’s history.
“The name, Casino Guitars, is derived from the original building, which housed a casino when it was built in the 1920s,” Clement said. “We restored the building in 2015 to reflect its historic origins, using 100-year-old repurposed wood and exposing the original old ceiling and support beams.”
Any passersby would notice the wood carved Gibson, Fender and Martin & Co. signs outside the shop on Broad Street in Southern Pines and not think
too much of it. Yet behind the glass doors await walls and hallways adorned with a veritable banquet of exceptional musical instruments. Stratocasters, Gretsches, Les Pauls, Paul Reed Smiths — some custom designed for the pro level player or out of the box for the hobbyist — the variety is eye popping.
That’s just the front room. Further back, a hallway where Martin and Taylor acoustics hang like paintings leads into a gallery of vintage guitars. Still, intimidating it is not. Upon entry, the authenticity and genuine nature of Casino’s team breed a welcoming environment seldom seen in the days when the gui-
“We wanted to figure out a way to do this and make mom and pop the greater universe but offer the finest instruments that are made today.”
tar-buying experience has gone the way of Walmart.
Mom and pop stores are a rarity, and most consumers are left to contend with the Guitar Centers of the world, negotiating a 10,000-square-foot maze of manufacturer-priced guitars, dodging pushy, know-it-all salespeople only to take a wrong turn into the hangar-sized drum room.
“We love guitar hunting and shopping, but we hate a lot of guitar shopping experiences,” Clement said. “We wanted to figure out a way to do this and make mom and pop the greater universe but offer the finest instruments that are made today.”
During the pandemic, luck and misfortune intersected when former Gov. Roy Cooper declared essential businesses could stay open while others were to remain shut — and Casino considered itself essential, like a bookstore.
“I was thinking we’re essential and close enough to education, so we can do it,” Taylor Clement, Baxter’s wife and Casino’s co-owner, said. Foot traffic slowed, but ideas began to percolate. Baxter, Taylor and the team had previously tried their hand shooting videos for their YouTube channel.
“We tried before Derrick was around, and they were awful,” Taylor laughed.
Content creator and owner of the Neon Rooster in nearby Aberdeen, Derrick Numbers now heads marketing and Casino TV. His expertise in video production and experience in the recording industry was instrumental in the shop’s skyward trajectory on YouTube.
“It was an evolution. It started as just demoing the guitars so people could hear and see this incredible kind of custom pieces.” Numbers said. “COVID was really where the channel grew and our biggest growth spurt. Everybody’s channel was growing at the time, but it was good to catch that wave.”
Isolation and decreased foot traffic onset by pandemic fears and regulations only brought the team closer and collectively more creative. Casino became one of 20 Fender “showcase” dealers in the country, which gave the shop access to Fender’s exclusive pieces. As the YouTube channel garnered attention for its down-toearth nature, humor, knowledge and brutal honesty the Casino team brought to the masses, its customer base grew.
The store began to offer fully customized and designed guitars to a customer’s liking. If your fancy is a 1961 Gibson Les Paul, retrofitted to look like Pete Townsend smashed it over a stack of Marshall amps, consider it done. A1960 Fender Stratocaster strung upside down for a left-handed genius named Jimi Hendrix after being doused in lighter fluid and set ablaze? Say no more. The team at Casino Guitars in Southern Pines is there to walk you through every step of your journey, no matter your location. If all you require is a few lessons, new stings, repairs or simply want to stop by, pull a beautiful guitar off the wall and strum away, come on in.
“It was kind of always like a dream in the back of the mind,” Baxter said. “But it was sort of an unrealistic and stupid dream.” Stupid and unrealistic that dream may have been, it came true.
NCAA ATHLETICS
UNC trustees’ oversight of athletics issues limited for concerns of overreach
Chapel Hill
The president of the UNC System has temporarily suspended the University of North Carolina trustees’ authority over athletics for acting beyond their designated duties. System president Peter Hans wrote to UNC trustees chairman John Preyer with the decision, saying unilateral action by trustee members risk “blurring the lines of actual and apparent authority.” Preyer had criticized football coach Mack Brown’s firing and trustee involvement in Bill Belichick’s hiring.
NBA Simmons waived by Nets after team, former No. 1 pick agree to buyout
New York Ben Simmons has been waived by the Brooklyn Nets after the team agreed to a buyout with the No. 1 pick in the 2016 draft. The Nets acquired the three-time All-Star in a trade for James Harden at the 2022 trade deadline. He was limited during his time by injuries. Simmons is reportedly hoping to sign with the Clippers.
NFL Moss makes emotional return to ESPN set following cancer treatment
New Orleans Hall of Famer Randy Moss made an emotional return to ESPN’s NFL coverage two months after he took a leave from his job to get treated for cancer. Moss was back on ESPN’s “Sunday NFL Countdown” before the Super Bowl. He was greeted with video messages from Tom Brady, Bill Belichick, Justin Jefferson, Kevin Garnett and several other big names welcoming him back. Moss was moved to tears.
The Heels are on the wrong side of NCAA bubble and running out of chances to turn it around
By Shawn Krest North State Journal
THE NCAA FIRST expanded its men’s basketball tournament to allow multiple teams from each conference starting in 1975. For the next 27 years, the University of North Carolina was in the field for every single one.
As of 2022, when we were 47 years into the experiment, UNC had gotten a bid 44 times, missing a total of three tournaments (four, if you count 2020, when the entire event was canceled, as a miss).
Dean Smith never missed
one. Neither did Bill Guthridge. Roy Williams missed one. With Monday’s lopsided loss at Clemson, Carolina’s fifth in the last seven games, the Tar Heels are in real danger of missing their second tournament in three years. The Heels are 14-11 and are rapidly running out of chances to impress the selection committee. The Clemson game ended a string of six games that included four Quad 1 games — the holy grail when it comes to building a tourney resume. UNC lost all four. For the season, the Tar Heels are 1-9 in Quad 1 games, and many of them have not been competitive. They lost by 15 at home to Alabama, by 13 at Louisville, by eight at Pitt and by 17
See NCAA , page B3
Durham’s black sports leaders make history every day
By Asheebo Rojas North State Journal
AS TIME MOVES, history is made. During Black History Month, let’s not forget that. Many people take a pause in time to commemorate and reflect on the endless collection of stories detailing black Americans’ existence in the past. Black history is synonymous with American history, therefore there’s a unique lens into the black American experience that’s worth exploring in just about every walk of this country. Right here in North Carolina, Durham has it on full display. The physical and oral reminders of the Hayti District, Black Wall Street, the Histor-
ic Durham Athletic Park and Durham’s Negro League baseball teams, the story of the “secret” first interracial basketball game in the South, and the continued existence of institu-
tions like North Carolina Central University and Hillside High School are hard to miss. But those aren’t the only lenses where one could find black history. Oftentimes, finding
those reminders doesn’t have to be intentional — it can be done in leisure and everyday life.
For instance, it can be found by simply attending a local sporting event. Because in Durham, black Americans are continuing to write their story in the shaping of the city’s sports culture.
From Mayor Leo Williams down to the city’s high school athletic directors, Durham’s network of black leaders has their hands in the making of a unique sports town, one that attracts visitors from around the country and the world.
WalletHub recently ranked Durham in the top 10 Best Sports Cities for 2025 for midsize markets across the United States. The ranking was based on fans’ perspectives, scoring 400 cities across more than 50 metrics related to football,
THURSDAY 2.13.25
Jared Allen:
The four-time All-Pro pass rusher was one of four players selected for the Pro Football Hall of Fame s class of 2025, joining Eric Allen Antonio Gates and Sterling Sharpe Allen had 136 career sacks, twice leading the league and reaching double digits in seven straight
game was a Super Bowl loss for the Carolina Panthers against Denver in 2015
Blake Gideon:
Georgia Tech hired the Texas assistant as defensive coordinator Gideon who was defensive backs coach for Western Carolina in 2016 and 2017, spent the past four seasons coaching safeties with the Longhorns and was associate head coach for defense last year The Longhorns led the country with 22 interceptions last year and ranked among the leaders in takeaways total defense and scoring defense
Yoán Moncada:
The Los Angeles Angels are signing the third baseman to a $5 million, one-year contract for 2025 Moncada spent the past eight seasons with the Chicago White Sox and spent parts of the 2017 2019 and 2022-24 seasons with the minor league Charlotte Knights Moncada missed nearly all of last season after straining an adductor muscle in April
POTENT QUOTABLES
“I like it big time How he’s been representing How ’ s he swagg y.”
Rob Gronkowski (left) on the change in Bill Belichick (right) since he left the NFL for college
“Luke Kuechly didn’t get in? Luke Kuechly? Luke Kuechly wa s a dog ”
Deion Sanders on the Pro Football Hall of Fame voting which left Kuechly (pictured) just class of 2025
PRIME NUMBER 4
Number of Carolina Hurr icanes on rosters for the 4 Nations Facestar ts play this week: Seth Jar v is (Canada), Sebastian A ho and Mik ko R antanen (Finland) and Jaccob Slav in (U S ) Only Sweden doesn’t feature a Cane on the roster
NCA A BASKETBALL
He’s back, baby! ESPN ’ s Dick Vitale received a standing ovation at Clemson’s from his four th bout w ith cancer Vitale, 85, hasn’t called a game for ESPN in t wo vocal cord cancer Vitale announced in December he’s cancer-free
R ick Har t is stepping dow n af ter 13 years as athletic director at Southern Methodist, follow ing the school’s successf ul debut year in the ACC Har t, a U NC alumnus and son of former ECU A D Dave Har t, said it was time for a new challenge for him and a new voice to lead the Mustangs
Jake LaRav ia (3) was traded from Memphis to Sacramento in a busy NBA trade deadline Joining the Wake Forest product on the move last week were Duke’s Brandon Ingram (to Toronto), Mar v in Bagley (Memphis) and Tre Jones (Chicago) and NC State’s Cody (Phoenix) and Caleb Mar tin (Dallas)
Marek Houston (7) is one of t wo Wake Forest players named to the preseason watch list for the G olden Spikes Award, g iven to the countr y ’ s top amateur player He’s joined by teammate Ethan Conrad. Other players from N C schools on the list are Duke’s A J Gracia and Kyle Johnson, U NC ’ s Jason DeCaro and Luke Stevenson, and U NC W ’ s Tanner Thach
With the NFL Draft just months away, players are doing what they can to stand out
By Ryan Henkel North State Journal
FOOTBALL SEASON has fully come to a close now with the Philadelphia Eagles 40-22 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs Sunday night in Super Bowl 59.
While college football came to a close a few weeks earlier than that (Ohio State defeated Notre Dame 34-23 in the CFB National Championship) it wasn’t until more recently that the last college all-star games wrapped up.
The Senior Bowl, East-West Shrine Bowl and Hula Bowl all offer chances for hundreds of draft hopefuls to showcase their talents in front of scouts from every NFL team before the April draft, and a few North Carolina players took that opportunity.
The 2025 Senior Bowl, which was held Feb. 1 at the University of South Alabama, featured two offensive linemen from Tobacco Road.
UNC offensive lineman Willie Lampkin played on the American team, and NC State offensive lineman Anthony Belton played on the National team.
Belton, who is listed at 6-foot- 4 and 345 pounds, didn’t have the best senior season with the Wolfpack, but those in attendance at practice week for the Senior Bowl believe he did a lot to help himself there, especially being that he took reps at both tackle and guard.
Lampkin, similarly, made a big impression at practice week amongst spectators despite being the smallest offensive linemen (5-foot-10, 270 pounds). The five-year starter was actually the top Power Four guard in terms of overall PFF grade this past season too.
The 100th iteration of the East-West Shrine Bowl, which was held Jan. 30 in Arlington,
Texas, had three North Carolina-based players in attendance.
NC State starting offensive lineman Tim McKay, who was a starter for the West, was also one of 12 players to earn All-Practice Team honors at the event. Also in attendance was UNC defensive back Alijah Huzzie, who was a noticeable presence throughout the practice week, showcasing his defensive talents as well as his versatility being a return specialist. And although he wasn’t able to participate due to a torn ACL he suffered in September, East Carolina defensive back Shavon Revel still attended the event. Many mock drafts have the standout projected as a potential first-round pick.
Hula Bowl
While both the Senior and East-West Bowls are supported by and in partnership with
the NFL, the Hula Bowl has still managed to find a niche and has thus risen as the third-best college all-star bowl. The event doesn’t feature the biggest names in the draft, but it still invited 130 draftees who hoped to boost their stock, and of those, 10 were from North Carolina colleges.
NC State had two players in attendance: defensive tackle Davin Vann and defensive back Aydan White. Vann was the leader for the Wolfpack defense, and although that unit overall took a big step backward last season, Vann still performed with 6.5 sacks and six forced fumbles, all career highs.
White was also the leading defensive back for the Wolfpack and had a pick-six and 59 total tackles last season.
UNC also had two players in attendance with defensive lineman Jahvaree Ritzie and linebacker Power Echols.
The third-year center now returns to Charlotte
By Jesse Deal North State Journal
CHARLOTTE — Jeff Peterson might have entered this past weekend feeling optimistic about the bold moves his team made at the tail end of the NBA’s trade deadline on Thursday, but the joy didn’t last too long.
On Saturday night, the Charlotte Hornets’ executive vice president of basketball operations was faced with the shocking news that his work had been undone: The Los Angeles Lakers disclosed in a surprise announcement that they had rescinded their trade for third-year Hornets center Mark Williams due to multiple issues with a failed physical, per reports.
The trade would have sent rookie Dalton Knecht, forward Cam Reddish, a first-round swap in 2030 and an unprotected first-round pick in 2031 to the Hornets in exchange for Williams.
It was a landmark deal for both teams erased in a split second due to what the Lakers officially say is a “failure to satisfy a condition of the trade” on the Hornets’ part pertaining to Williams’ health. If the 23-year-old’s failed physical happened prior to the expiration of the trade deadline, the original deal could’ve been amended — but it is too late now. Williams is now a Hornet again, returning to the Queen City just days after posting purple and gold hearts on his social media account.
The former Duke star and 15th overall pick in the 2022 draft was fully prepared to head out west to join LeBron James and Luka Doncic on one of the NBA’s most legendary franchises, but he is is tasked with the awkward situation of reacclimating to a floundering Charlotte team (13-38) that had made peace with a future without him.
“We are excited to welcome Mark back to our Hornets organization,” the Hornets said in a team statement. “After the other team aggressively pursued Mark, we made the difficult decision to move him. We have always held great respect for Mark’s talent, work ethic, and character. We are thrilled to see him rejoin our roster as a dynamic presence at the starting center position. His return strengthens our team, and we look forward to the impact he
“We are excited to welcome Mark back to our Hornets organization.”
Charlotte Hornets team statement
will make on and off the court.”
This season, Williams has averaged 15.6 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.2 blocks despite shooting a career-worst 58.6% from the field. He has shown flashes of greatness — scoring a career-high 38 points in a loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Jan. 22, 2024 — but has also demonstrated concerning defensive effort when battling in the paint against opposing centers. His availability has been a near-constant concern, and he has played in 23 games this season due to a foot injury. Last
at Duke in a game that had a 30-point margin late in the second half. Clemson led by 16 at the half and never looked back, building a lead of more than 20.
The only remaining game projected to be a Quad 1 for the Heels is the regular season finale — a rematch with Duke at the Dean Dome.
Despite the struggles against top opponents, the Heels are still on the NCAA bubble. None of the major bracket projections have UNC in the field with just over a month to go until Selection Sunday, but they are just missing the cut. CBSSports, On3 and ESPN all had the Tar Heels among the first four out going into the Clemson game.
“It’s not a sense of urgency,” said UNC coach Hubert Davis after a one-point win over Pitt on Saturday helped keep the Heels under consideration. “It’s a sense of emergency.”
Ritzie had a big breakout season with UNC as he recorded a career-high 40 tackles, 6.5 sacks and an interception.
Echols on the other hand had a bit of a down year for the Tar Heels with only 76 total tackles and 0.5 sacks.
There were two Wake Forest players: Edge Jasheen Davis and linebacker Branson Combs.
Davis saw his numbers dip with only 33 tackles and 5.5 sacks this season, but Combs, the former receiver, racked up 94 tackles, two sacks and an interception.
Also accepting the invitation to Orlando were Duke wide receiver Jordan Moore (861 yards, eight touchdowns) and ECU receiver Winston Wright Jr. (556 yards, eight touchdowns) and a pair of Elon standouts in quarterback Matthew Downing (2,049 yards, 16 touchdowns, four interceptions) and receiver Chandler Brayboy (979 yards, eight touchdowns).
seasdon, he was limited to 19 games due to a back issue that derailed his sophomore season.
Since being drafted in 2022, Williams has missed almost two-thirds of the Hornets’ games with a combination of back, ankle, knee and foot injuries. While it became the immediate talking point at the time of the voided trade, Williams’ back was not the reason for the failed physical, according to reporting from ESPN’s Shams Charania.
There are other ramifications of the 7-footer returning to Charlotte after stepping one foot out the door.
Assuming they would need a new center, the Hornets had already agreed to a trade with Phoenix that would send forward Cody Martin, guard Vasilije Micic and a 2026 second-round pick to the Suns in exchange for big man Jusuf Nurkic and a 2026 first-round pick.
Nurkic was tentatively set to be Charlotte’s second-string center following the recent emergence of Moussa Diabate, who was signed to a three-year contract extension Sunday after averaging 4.7 points and 7.1 rebounds this season for the Hornets.
Now Williams is back in the fold, returning to a roster where his health will determine whether he immediately receives the same minutes he had prior to the botched trade attempt.
“We’ve had some good conversations,” Charlotte coach Charles Lee said of Williams on Monday afternoon. “We are all excited to have Mark back with the group. I think that we’re still just working through some things, but the hope is for him to rejoin us as soon as possible.”
Later that night, ESPN reported that the Hornets have been in contact with the NBA “as they explore options to dispute the Los Angeles Lakers’ failed physical assessment of Mark Williams.”
The Heels are not alone in the state. Most of North Carolina’s college programs will need a series of upsets in their respective conference tournaments in order to get a ticket to the Big Dance. The bracket projections have only one team that’s a sure thing. A second team is a consensus selection at the moment but far from safe. Here’s a look at the situation for the teams across the state.
Definitely in
Duke 20-3, No. 2 NET (the ranking metric the selection committee uses to compare tourney hopefuls). The Blue Devils are a consensus No. 1 seed, although they slipped from one of the highest rated ones to the fourth of four top seeds in some bracket projections.
In for now
Wake Forest 18-6, No. 59 NET. The Demon Deacons are one of the last four in and headed to the First Four in Dayton, according to ESPN and On3. CBS has the Deacs a little more securely in the field, giving them a 10 seed. If the Heels make the field, it will likely come at Wake’s expense.
Out for now:
UNC 14-11, No. 46 NET. The Heels are actually ranked higher than Wake in the NET, thanks to strength of schedule, but wins have been scarcer than they hoped, which explains their current predicament.
One-bid league teams in good position
High Point 21-5, No. 94
NET. The Panthers lead the Big South by a half game. The league is only getting one bid, and both On3 and CCBS think they earn it with a conference tourney title, projecting a No. 13 seed for High Point.
UNC Asheville 17-7, No. 168 NET. The Bulldogs are a half game back in the Big South and projected by ESPN to get past High Point in the conference tournament, getting a No. 15 seed. At best, one of the two will go.
Only get in with a conference tournament title (in order of NET)
UNC Wilmington, No. 103
NC State, No. 120
Davidson, No. 124
UNC Greensboro, No. 137
App State, No. 145
Elon, No. 164
Campbell, No. 171
East Carolina, No. 184
Queens, No. 204
Gardner-Webb, No. 237
Charlotte, No. 258
NC Central, No. 290
NC A&T, No. 337
Western Carolina, No. 349
UNCW is 20-5. Davidson, UNCG, App, Elon, Campbell, ECU and Queens all have winning records, but they’ll have to follow the 2023-24 NC State blueprint in order to make the field.
A lawsuit filed by Michael Jordan may overshadow the on-track action
By Jenna Fryer The Associated Press
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — NASCAR has no shortage of storylines headed into its 76th season, and the biggest one is the federal court showdown between the stock car series and NBA Hall of Famer Michael Jordan.
Jordan’s 23XI Cup Series team that he co-owns with three-time Daytona 500 winner Denny Hamlin didn’t like the terms of the take-it-or-leave-it charter offer last fall and, along with Front Row Motorsports, refused to sign as 13 others did.
The two teams will race this season — 23XI’s driver, Tyler Reddick, was the regular-season champion and a title contender — as the case proceeds.
23XI and Front Row head into the season-opening Daytona 500 this weekend coming off a flurry of courtroom victories, including one that recognizes and compensates their six combined cars as chartered entries. A trial is set for December after the season ends.
• This year marks the start of a new seven-year television package that welcomes Amazon and Warner Bros. Discovery to a multinetwork deal spanning the February through November season.
• NASCAR will take the Cup Series outside the United States
for a race that counts for the first time in the modern era. Its two previous points races outside the U.S. were in Canada, in 1952 and 1958, and all other events outside the country were exhibitions. The Cup Series will race in Mexico City in June, a chance to showcase stars such as Mexican driver Daniel Suarez. NASCAR will use the same track that Formula 1 uses, and the hope is to land younger fans.
“I actually think things are in an OK place,” said Chase Elliott, voted the most popular driver by fans seven times. The son of Hall of Fame driver Bill Elliott said he believes NASCAR’s current leadership group “has been open to more change over the past three or four years” than the past three decades.
NASCAR has been owned and operated by the Dayto-
na-based France family since its 1948 inception. “As long as we’re willing to say that some of the stuff hasn’t been good, then it’s fine,” Elliott said of competition issues the past few years. “I hope we can continue to go in a good direction.”
First speed bump will be at Daytona 500
Nine drivers will attempt to qualify for one of the four open spots in the Daytona 500. Among the nine are seven-time Cup Series champion and twotime race winner Jimmie Johnson, former Cup Series champion Martin Truex Jr., and four-time Indianapolis 500 winner Helio Castroneves in his Cup debut. NASCAR last month went public with a new rule that could expand the field to 41 to accom-
Philadelphia’s defense had a dominant performance in shutting down Kansas City
By Rob Maaddi
The Associated Press
NEW ORLEANS — A ferocious Philadelphia Eagles defense tormented and frustrated Patrick Mahomes while Jalen Hurts made all the plays the offense needed.
So much for the Kansas City Chiefs’ quest for a Super Bowl three-peat.
It wasn’t even close.
Cooper DeJean got a pick-six on his 22nd birthday, Josh Sweat pressured Mahomes all night and the Eagles routed the Chiefs 40-22 on Sunday to secure the franchise’s second Super Bowl championship.
Hurts threw for two touchdowns and ran for a score on a tush push to earn Super Bowl MVP honors, and Vic Fangio’s defense was so dominant that the Eagles didn’t need much from Saquon Barkley.
The game-changing running back finished with 57 yards, breaking Terrell Davis’ record for yards rushing in a season, playoffs included. Hurts threw for 221 yards.
“This is the ultimate team game. You can’t be great without the greatness of others.
LEADERS from page B1 baseball, basketball, soccer and hockey.
Along with Williams, who works alongside the city’s leaders in sports, it’s black sports leaders such as NCCU Athletic Director Skip Perkins, Durham Public Schools Athletic Director David Hackney, Duke Director of Athletics Nina King and Durham Sports Commission Executive Director Marcus Manning that help make that recognition for Durham possible.
“The history and culture of Durham are deeply rooted in resilience, progress and community,” King said. “The Duke women’s basketball team recently hosted its Black Excellence Game, celebrating and recognizing both black history in Durham and the many black leaders shaping our community.
Great performance by everybody — offense, defense, special teams,” coach Nick Sirianni said. “We didn’t really ever care what anyone thought about how we won, or their opinions. All we want to do is win.”
Hurts has been doubted since he started for Alabama in a national championship game and was benched for Tua Tagovailoa at halftime. Finishing second to Mahomes in MVP voting two years ago didn’t quite silence all the detractors. Now, he’s hoisted the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
“Things come right on time. The last time around, it wasn’t our time, it wasn’t my time and sometimes you have to accept that you have to wait your turn,” said Hurts, who nearly led the Eagles to victory against the Chiefs two years ago in Arizona.
Not in Kansas City’s worst nightmares could its fans have imagined such a lackluster performance. The Chiefs had won three of the previous five Super Bowls, losing 31-9 to Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers four years ago.
Mahomes was 8-0 against Fangio’s defenses before the longtime coordinator and former Broncos head coach outcoached Andy Reid, capping his first season with his hometown team. Reid fell to 3-3 in Super Bowls, including a loss with the Eagles.
I’m grateful to live and work in a community where black voices are honored and amplified.”
The DSC is a tax-exempt nonprofit organization founded in 2016 with the mission to “create economic and social impact by leading the community’s efforts to attract, support, and promote youth, amateur, collegiate and professional sporting and recreational events.”
Since stepping into his current role with the DSC during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Manning has helped the organization live up to that mission, winning bids to host the 2025-27 CIAA Football Championships (first time it’ll be played in Durham since 2015) and this year’s ACC Baseball Tournament, ACC Wrestling Championship and CIAA Track and Field Championship. “We had a great retreat in the
modate a world-class driver. It was earmarked for Castroneves, who, if he doesn’t earn one of the four open spots, will race as an extra car not eligible for payment or points.
Johnson and Truex could have been considered for the waiver if they asked at least 90 days in advance, language NASCAR said was in the charters signed by teams in September. Trackhouse Racing was the only team to request the waiver, if needed, for Castroneves.
“I just think it reeks of desperation,” said Hamlin, who as co-owner of 23XI Racing has signed some splashy one-off entrants, including former F1 drivers Juan Pablo Montoya and Kamui Kobayashi.
“I don’t know how nice you can really say it. It just feels like you are really trying to get any kind of headline you can to be relevant, and I don’t love it,” Hamlin said of the provisional. “You are the premier stock car series in the U.S., the premier racing sport in the U.S. — be the big boys and force people to come in here and get their credentials and do it the natural way.”
The rule will be tested this week at Daytona International Speedway, where two open spots will be awarded Wednesday based on speed and the other two awarded in Thursday’s two qualifying races.
What to watch for in 2025
• Team Penske has won three consecutive Cup Series championships with Ryan Blaney’s
win sandwiched between a pair of Joey Logano titles. Logano’s third overall title broke a tie with Kyle Busch as the only active drivers with multiple championships. Busch is trying to bounce back from last year, when his record run of 19 consecutive seasons with at least one win came to an end.
• Trackhouse, 23XI and Front Row have all expanded into three-car teams with the charters from Stewart-Haas Racing, which ceased operations as a four-car program at the end of last season. Gene Haas will field one car branded Haas Factory for driver Cole Custer.
• William Byron is the defending Daytona 500 winner, and Hendrick Motorsports teammate Kyle Larson is the hottest driver in motorsports right now with offseason wins in big sprint car races in Australia and Oklahoma.
• NASCAR will spend 2025 reviewing the playoff structure because fans are showing boredom with the current format and didn’t like Logano winning the title. There was also a controversial penultimate race in which NASCAR accused the manufacturers of manipulating the finish to set the championship quartet.
• NASCAR vowed to tighten the rule book and warned of penalties for anyone who tries to game the system to determine an outcome. The first test comes with the Daytona 500, a race in which the cars from Chevrolet, Ford and Toyota all work withing an overall strategy for each brand.
The Eagles sacked Mahomes six times, the most of his career, including 21/2 by Sweat and two by Milton Williams. And they did it without Fangio calling a single blitz.
“Defense wins championships,” Hurts said. “We saw how they played today. We saw the difference they made in the game. They gave us opportunities, gave us short fields. And we’re able to do what we do.”
Barkley, the 2024 AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year, only had 31 yards rushing in the first half when Philly built a 24-0 lead.
The Chiefs were aiming to become the third team in NFL history to win three straight championships and the first to three-peat in the Super Bowl era.
“That’s a great football team and we had to come out and play our best, and we did,” Sirianni said.
This time, a revamped Philly defense featuring eight new starters from the 2022 team made sure Mahomes had no chance to pull off his magic.
Sirianni was showered with Gatorade with nearly three minutes left in the game while backup quarterback Kenny Pickett took snaps in mop-up duty.
“Today was a rough day all around. Nothing went right. I didn’t coach well. Proud of our guys for fighting. We will learn
early part of 2021, and we really talked about, ‘Can we become a championship hub?’” Manning said. “We were fortunate enough through a collective effort with our city, Durham County, Durham Chamber, Discover Durham, Duke, NC Central, Durham Bulls and public schools, we all came together and really were strategic on bringing championships to the area.
“We’ve hosted the NAIA football national championship for four straight years. The CIAA Track and Field Championships. We’ve hosted multiple state high school championships as well.”
Manning and the DSC also look to continue to foster Durham’s connection with HBCU athletics, given the city’s rich black history and significance in HBCU culture. He credits Williams with being in-
celebrate
from this,” Reid said. “Too many turnovers, too many penalties. Against a good football team, can’t do that.”
Barkley helped push Hurts into the end zone from the 1 to give Philadelphia a 7-0 lead in the first quarter.
Up 10-0 after Jake Elliott’s 48-yard field goal, Sweat and Jalyx Hunt sacked Mahomes on consecutive plays. Mahomes then rolled out and made an errant throw that was picked by DeJean, who returned it 38 yards for a 17-0 lead.
“When you have a great line up front ... makes it easier on the back end, and when they take the run away, it allows us to get the pass rush going,” DeJean said. It was Mahomes’ first pick-six
volved in the “recruitment and retention” efforts and helping make sure CIAA events are held in the city.
“You think about the geographical footprint here in Durham, and we have HBCUs that come here,” Manning said. “The CIAA fits within our footprint. NC Central used to be a member of the CIAA. Shaw University plays their football games at Durham County Memorial Stadium, so we feel like it’s a perfect fit to have the CIAA and other HBCUs come to Durham.”
Even within the DSC there’s a network of black individuals with valuable experience in sports and leadership that make a huge impact as well. Board Chair Ingrid Wicker McCree and Vice Chair Angelique Stallings come to mind for Manning for what they’ve done both with-
in 21 career playoff games and ended a streak of 297 straight passes without an interception.
“We didn’t start how we wanted to. The turnovers hurt. I take all the blame for that,” Mahomes said.
All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun picked Mahomes again late in the second quarter, and Hurts connected with A.J. Brown on a 12-yard touchdown pass for a 24-0 lead.
Hurts threw a perfect 46 -yard touchdown to DeVonta Smith to make it 34-0 late in the third.
Mahomes fired a 24-yard touchdown to Xavier Worthy to avoid the shutout, but the 2-point conversion failed. He threw two late, mostly meaningless TD passes, one to DeAndre Hopkins and another to Worthy.
in and outside of the organization. Stallings is also the vice president of community investment for the Durham Chamber.
“Dr. Ingrid Wicker McCree was a former athletic director at NC Central, and she really created a pathway and foundation for sustained success at NC Central,” Manning said. “To have her be the chair of our board for the sports commission, we cannot thank her enough for her services.”
As teams from around the country come to Durham to compete in large events and local teams continue to provide a vibrant culture across different levels of athletics, let’s remember that there are black voices behind the scenes adding to the city’s sports history — a history that’s not only told in the second month of the year but speaks as long as time goes.
The Grammy-winning rapper took on the establishment and took another swipe at Drake
By Maria Sherman
The Associated Press
“SALUTATIONS!” the actor
Samuel L. Jackson, dressed as Uncle Sam introduced Kendrick Lamar at New Orleans’ Caesars Superdome for the 2025 Super Bowl halftime show — a powerful, commanding creative choice by the first solo hip-hop artist to ever headline the coveted slot.
As if there were any doubts of the Pulitzer Prize-winning rapper’s ability to put on a show.
As dozens of dancers emerged from a Buick GNX clown car style, he launched into an as-yet-untitled new song that
EXECUTOR’S NOTICE
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 25E000135-250 State of North Carolina Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS
had been teased with an online snippet when his “GNX” album was released, then moved into “Squabble Up.” For just under 13 minutes during the halftime show sponsored by Apple Music and Roc Nation, Lamar commanded the field.
Dancers dressed in red, white and blue joined Lamar. But even in their patriotic colors, they were labeled “too loud, too reckless, too ghetto” by Jackson’s Uncle Sam, who reminded Lamar to “play the game.” Then, he launched into “Humble.,” “DNA.,” “Euphoria” and “man at the garden.”
“Scorekeeper, deduct one life,” Jackson interrupted again. Lamar launched into “peakboo,” and then teased a performance of “Not Like Us.”
“I wanna play their favorite song, but you know they love to sue,” Lamar told the women
The undersigned, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Kenneth Ware Porter, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 321 North Front Street, Wilmington, North Carolina 28401, on or before May 14, 2025, 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 13th day of February, 2025. Steve Randall Porter Executor of the Estate of Kenneth Ware Porter, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305
2/13/2025, 2/20/2025, 2/27/2025 and 03/06/2025
EXECUTOR’S NOTICE
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 24E000984-250 State of North Carolina Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS
The undersigned, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Janet D. Adams, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, does hereby notify all persons, firms or corporations having claims against said estate to present them to the undersigned at 2138 Baywater Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina 28304, on or before April 23, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This the 23rd day of January, 2025. Edward Mitchell Adams Executor of the Estate of Janet D. Adams, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305 1/23/2025, 1/30/2025, 2/06/2025 and 2/13/2025 NOTICE
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 24CV010653-250 NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY THE CITY OF FAYETTEVILLE, Plaintiff, v. APEX CONTRACTING GROUP, LLC F/K/A MOHAMMAD CONSTRUCTION, LLC, WINGS OF EAGLE FUND 1, LLC, NEW LIFE FIDELITY, INC, MOHAMMAD MOHAMMAD, and RONALD BATISTE, Defendants.
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION
TO: Mohammad Mohammad, 2612 Hope Mills Road, Fayetteville, NC 28306 Mohammad Mohammad, 7100 Lake Myra Road, Raleigh, NC 27591 Mohammad Mohammad, 1022 Sandlin Pl., Apt. D., Raleigh, NC 27606 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 a Complaint for breach of contracts in connection with Mazarick Park Tennis Center Sitework, Mazarick Park Tennis Court Construction, Mable C. Smith Community
NOTICE
“Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date, and I’ll be there to remind the world why. They got the right one.”
Kendrick Lamar
dancers behind him, referencing rival artist Drake. It is hard to underscore the ubiquity of “Not Like Us” — with its billion streams on Spotify, the massive hit is a regional anthem for Los Angeles, a rallying cry for community and against culture vultures, a diss track that won Lamar the highly publicized feud with Drake and the track that won song and record of the year at the Grammys last weekend.
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION
ESTATE FILE #25E000156-250
ADMINISTRATOR’S/EXECUTOR’S NOTICE
The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator for the Estate of Cary Earl Dudley, 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 13th day of May, 2025, (which is three months from the day of the first publication of this notice) or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All Debtors of the decedent are requested to make immediate payment to the undersigned.
This 13th day of February, 2025. Gary Earl Dudley, Administrator 347 Grape Arbor Drive Fayetteville, NC 28312 Of the Estate of Cary Earl Dudley, deceased
NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA In The General Court of Justice County of Cumberland Superior Court Division Estate File # 23E000229-250
Administrator’s/ Executor’s Notice
The undersigned, having qualified as Administrator_____________________ of the Estate of Octavia Tara George__________________ , 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 10th day of May__________, 2025, (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 31st day of January_______, 2025. Kehaulani George Administrator/Executor
3324 Silverspoon Rd Address Whiteville NC, 28472 City, State, Zip Of the Estate of Octavia Tara George, Deceased
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE NO. 25E000130-250
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Jerry Eugene Sykes, 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 May 13, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said Estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. Dated this 13th day of February, 2025.
Judy Jackson Sykes, Executor of the Estate of Jerry Eugene Sykes
NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY & CORLEY, P.A. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE
SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION
ESTATE FILE NO. 25E000050-250
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Thomas C. Herring, Jr., 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 May 6, 2025, 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 6th day of February, 2025.
Susan J. Jordan, Executor of the Estate of Estate of Thomas C. Herring, Jr.
NICOLE A. CORLEY
MURRAY & CORLEY, P.A.
N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR
Leading up to the Super Bowl, whether or not Lamar would perform the song was a legitimate question held by fans and critics alike. Lamar levels strong accusations against Drake in its lyrics; Drake has sued Universal Music Group for defamation as a result of the song’s popularity. Does a Super Bowl performance further complicate things?
Little was known about Lamar’s halftime performance ahead of time. Lamar promised to keep his passion for storytelling at the forefront of his plans, and SZA was a previously announced guest performer. They are frequent collaborators; she most recently appeared on “GNX” and was featured on a couple of songs, including “Gloria” and “Luther,” which also features sampled vocals from Luther Vandross and Cheryl Lynn through
NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA
In The General Court of Justice County of Cumberland
Superior Court Division Estate File#: 23001231-250
Administrator’s/Executor’s Notice The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Terry Yi McCray, deceased, late of Cumberland County, hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said estate is present their claim to the undersigned on or before the 1st day of May, 2025, (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 30 day of January 2025.
Cortney McCray Administrator/Executor
316 W. Willow Creek Dr. Address
Saratoga Springs, UT 84045 City, State, Zip
Of the Estate of Terry Yi McCray, Deceased
NOTICE
In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Estate File # 25E000090-250 State of North Carolina County of Cumberland
Administrator’s / Executor’s Notice
The undersigned, having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Edna McLaurin aka Edna L. McLaurin, 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 30th day of April, 2025, (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 the 30th day of January, 2025.
David Merel McLaurin-Executor of the Estate of Edna McLaurin aka Edna L. McLaurin 2077 Wilbur Street Eastover, NC 28312
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION
File No: 25-E-000074-250
NOTICE TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS ON ESTATE OF: Robert Lewis Morgan ALL persons, firms and corporations having claims Against Robert Lewis Morgan, deceased are notified to exhibit them to Joyce M. Aker, Administrator c/o Kenneth M. Johnson, P.A., 701 E. Market Street, Greensboro, NC 27401, for decedent’s Estate, on or before the 13th day of May 2025 or be barred from their recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the above-named Administrator. This 13th day of February 2025.
Joyce M. Aker, Administrator c/o Kenneth M. Johnson Attorney at Law PO Box 21247 Greensboro, NC 27420 (336) 272-8273 Published: February 13, 20th, 27th & March 6th
NOTICE OF EXECUTOR TO CREDITORS AND DEBTORS
Tonya Strickland, having qualified as Executor for the Estate of David Ray Nimocks, Jr., 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, at the address indicated below, on or before May 14, 2025 or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said estate should please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 13th day of February, 2025.
Tonya Strickland Executor of the David Ray Nimocks, Jr. Estate Schell Bray PLLC P.O. Box 21847 Greensboro, NC 27420
Michael H. Godwin SCHELL BRAY PLLC 230 North Elm Street, Suite 1000 Greensboro, NC 27401 For Publication: February 13, 20, 27 and March 6, 2025.
“If This World Were Mine.”
SZA appeared on stage for “Luther” and “All the Stars.”
“That’s what America wants — nice and calm,” Jackson said. He brought out the producer Mustard and tennis superstar Serena Williams was spotted crip walking along to the diss track. Is there any better publicity than the biggest stage in U.S. sports? Consider this just another step in Lamar’s continued victory lap.
“Rap music is still the most impactful genre to date,” Lamar said in a statement in September, when he was first announced as the 2025 halftime performer. “And I’ll be there to remind the world why. They got the right one.”
Make no mistake about it — that’s exactly what he did Sunday evening.
NOTICE In The General Court of Justice Superior Court Division Before the Clerk Estate File #25E-000025-250 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA CUMBERLAND COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR NOTICE The undersigned having qualified as
on or before May 14, 2025, 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 13th day of February 2025. Gail Smallwood Nazarchyk Executor of the Estate of Joyce A. Smallwood aka Joyce Tew Smallwood, Deceased c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC J. Duane Gilliam, Jr., Attorney PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305 2/13/2025, 2/20/2025, 2/27/2025 and 03/06/2025
NOTICE TO CREDITORS ESTATE OF JOHN F. PENROSE, SR. CUMBERLAND County Estate File No. 23E000501-250 All persons, firms and corporations having claims against John F. Penrose, Sr., deceased, of Cumberland County, North Carolina, are notified to present their claims to Davis W. Puryear, Administrator, at 4317 Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC 28311, on or before the 7th day of May, 2025 (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 29th day of January, 2025. Davis W. Puryear Administrator of the Estate of John F. Penrose,
56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR NOTICE
STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA Cumberland County IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 24E1235 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Wilfredo Rivera Hernandez, deceased, late of Cumberland County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Wilfredo Rivera Hernandez to present them to the undersigned on or before the 23rd of April, 2025 or same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment.
This the 23rd day of January 2025. Norva L. Rivera 4034 Dickens Ave., Hope Mills NC 28348 Administrator of the Estate of Wilfredo Rivera Hernandez, deceased June 29, 2024
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS THE UNDERSIGNED, Norman F. Lavigne, Sr., having qualified on the 8th day of January 2025, as Executor of the Estate of Heather Jo Lavigne (2025-E-34), deceased, does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said Estate that they must present them to the undersigned at DAVID E. ANDERSON, PLLC, 9111 Market Street, Suite A, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28411, on or before the 5th day of May, 2025, or the claims will be forever barred thereafter, and this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make prompt payment to the undersigned at the above address.
This 30th day of January 2025. Norman F. Lavigne, Sr. Executor ESTATE OF HEATHER JO LAVIGNE
David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411
Publish: January 30, 2025 February 6, 2025 February 13, 2025 February 20, 2025
NOTICE
All persons, firms, and corporations having claims against JEAN HUNNICUTT ELLIS, deceased of New Hanover County, N.C. are notified to exhibit the same to the undersigned on or before May 5, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. Debtors of the decedent are asked to make immediate payment to the undersigned. This 24th day of January, 2025.
Janice Ellis Jenkins, Executor PO Box 1087 Holly Springs, NC 27540
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 24 SP 534 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by David G. Chisholm and Donna W. Chisholm (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): David G. Chisholm and Donna W. Chisholm) to Mark Sgromolo, Trustee(s), dated July 25, 2005, and recorded in Book No. 1629, at Page 1154 in Davidson County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Davidson County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY 20 SP 665 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Leroy Oreggio Hinton, in the original amount of $125,000.00, payable to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., solely as nominee for SunTrust Mortgage, Inc., dated August 29, 2005 and recorded on September 7, 2005 in Book 7001, Page 257, Cumberland County Registry. Default having been made in the payment of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust
24SP001946-250
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY
Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale
contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Glenn R Autry to John C Warren, Trustee(s), which was dated January 25, 2007 and recorded on January 30, 2007 in Book 7487 at Page 828, 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 February 26, 2025 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: TRACT ONE - PIN 0404-39-5629
Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Lexington, Davidson County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:30 AM on March 24, 2025 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Lexington in the County of Davidson, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that Certain Property situated in the County of Davidson and State of North Carolina. Being more fully described in a Deed Dated 08/22/1988 and recorded 08/22/1988, among the Land Records of the County and State set forth above, in Deed Volume 691 and Page 664. Tax Map or Parcel ID No: 1132300000038. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 1971 City Lake Road, Lexington, 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
by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Cumberland County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Cumberland County, North Carolina, at 2:00PM on February 25, 2025, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: Being all of Lot 1, Block “B” in subdivision known as revision of subdivision L.G. Carter, Jr., and the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 66, at Page 73, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 865 Bladen Circle Fayetteville NC 28312. Tax ID: 0466-58-2643Third party purchasers must pay the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105-228.30, in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof,
BEING all of Lot No. 80 in a subdivision known as STONEY POINT, SECTION TWO, PART THREE, according to a plat of same duly recorded in Book of Plats 45, Page 25, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.
In addition to any easements as shown on the recorded plat, a five (5’) foot drainage and services easement located long the side lot lines and a ten (10’) foot drainage and services easement located along the rear lot line is hereby reserved.
TRACT TWO - PIN 0404-39-4656
BEGINNING at an existing iron pipe in the southern margin of Stoney Point Loop (60 foot R/W), the northeast corner of Lot No. 79 Stoney Point Section 2, Part 3, as recorded in Plat Book 45, Page 25, Cumberland County Registry; and runs thence with the dividing line between Lot 79 and 80 South 15 degrees 31 minutes East 169.12 feet to an existing iron pipe, the southeast corner of Lot No. 79, thence with the southern line of Lot No. 79 South 81
with
156.50
NOTICE
NORTH CAROLINA NEW HANOVER COUNTY NOTICE TO CREDITORS
THE UNDERSIGNED, David B. Reitblatt, having qualified on the 6th day of December 2024, as Executor of the Estate of Zita G. Reitblatt (2024-E1680), deceased, does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against said Estate that they must present them to the undersigned at DAVID E. ANDERSON, PLLC, 9111 Market Street, Suite A, Wilmington, North Carolina, 28411, on or before the 5th day of May, 2025, or the claims will be forever barred thereafter, and this notice will be pleaded in bar of recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to said Estate will please make prompt payment to the undersigned at the above address.
This 30th day of January 2025.
David B. Reitblatt Executor ESTATE OF ZITA G. REITBLATT
David Anderson Attorney at Law 9111 Market St, Ste A Wilmington, NC 28411
Publish: January 30, 2025 February 6, 2025 February 13, 2025 February 20, 2025
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having qualified as executor on the estate of Jane Boudin Strother, deceased, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned at 777 Honeysuckle Rd, Asheboro, NC 27203 on or before the 7th day of May, 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment. This 22nd day of January, 2025.
Litha Charles Carpenter Executor of the Estate of Jane Boudin Strother
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
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 a pipe in the southern margin of Stoney Point Loop; thence with said southern margin on a curve that curves to the East on a radius of 369.04 feet an arc distance of 55.00 feet to the beginning. Being the Eastern one-half of Lot No. 79 Stoney Point Section 2, Part 3, Plat Book 45, Page 25, Cumberland County Registry. The tracts above described are subject to Restrictive Covenants as recorded in Book 2556, Page 847, Cumberland County Registry. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior conveyances of record. Said property is commonly known as 6263 Stoney Point Loop, Fayetteville, NC 283068330. 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
to a
North
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Kathryn Garner Craven, late of Randolph 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 P.O. Box 5994, Greensboro, North Carolina 27435, on or before the 6th day of May 2025, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 6th day of February 2025. Richard Ernest Brady Executor of the Estate of Kathryn Garner Craven. J. Taylor Moody Attorney at Law Spangler Estate Planning P.O. Box 5994 Greensboro, NC 27435
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
To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owners of the property is Leroy Hinton. 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,
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 Glenn R. Autry. 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,
Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Caldwell Owen Jackson, Jr and Tracie Robinson, Mortgagor(s), in the original amount of $343,660.00, to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., (“MERS”) as beneficiary, as nominee for Cornerstone Home Lending, Inc., Mortgagee, dated March 8th, 2022 and recorded on March 9th, 2022 in Book 11413, Page 0284, as instrument number 09877, Cumberland County Registry. Default having been made in the payment of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Cumberland County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Cumberland County, North Carolina, at 1:30 PM on February 19th, 2025, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: BEING all of Lot 12 as shown on a plat entitled “THE SENTINELS, LOTS 1-12, 4955 AND 94-104” duly recorded in Plat Book 145, Page 149 Cumberland County Registry. Together with improvements located
NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION
OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND
DIVISION 24CVS005695-250
LaCourse;
Spouse of Lynda Ruth LaCourse; Take notice that a pleading seeking
you has been filed in the aboveentitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: The Court determine the Deed of Trust recorded on June 23, 2015, in Book 09672 at Page 0714 in the Cumberland County Registry was drafted and recorded in a manner sufficient to give a reasonable title searcher notice of the interest of the Plaintiff’s lien on the property located at 2381 Dunwoody Drive, Fayetteville, North
Carolina 28306. The Court declare the Deed of Trust recorded on June 23, 2015, in Book 09672 at Page 0714 in the Cumberland County Registry is a valid First Lien on the Property as drawn; That the Plaintiff’s lien on the Property be foreclosed by judicial sale pursuant to the provisions of N.C.G.S. § 1-339.1, et seq., by the Plaintiff’s Counsel or by a Commissioner especially appointed by the Court to serve without bond, with proceeds of the sale applied as follows: To the cost of this action; To the compensation allowed by the Court for a person holding the sale pursuant to the N.C.G.S. § 1-339.11; To the amount due to the Plaintiff under the Note and Deed of Trust, including reasonable fees and costs provided therein;
and The surplus, if any, to be paid to the Office of the Clerk of Superior Court of Cumberland County pending a determination of those persons entitled thereto. That the Property located at 2381 Dunwoody Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28306 shall be sold at a public sale to the highest bidder. That Jeremy B. Wilkins is hereby appointed as Commissioner to conduct the sale pursuant to N.C.G.S. §1-339.11. In the alternative, that the Court declares the current record owners hold the Property described herein subject to a constructive trust and equitable lien to the benefit of the Plaintiff, consistent in all regards with the terms and conditions of the Deed of Trust. That the Court’s Order, shall be duly recorded in the Cumberland County Register of Deeds and indexed according
of
encumbrances
Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing
Grove Church Rd, Linwood, NC 27299. 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
parties
“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 Dustin Roger Warren. 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
of termination [NCGS §
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
2021, and recorded in Book No. 018851, at Page 01999 Wake County Registry, and recorded in Book 1879, at Page 852 in Granville County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and
Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned
NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE
23SP001405-910
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 February 24, 2025 and will sell to the 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: Tax Id Number(s): 0189399 Land situated in the Township of New Light in the County of Wake in the State of NC Land situated in the Township of New Light in the County of Granville in the State of NC BEING all of Lot 89, Willow Creek Subdivision, Phase IV, as shown on plat which is recorded in Book of Maps 1991, Page 856, Wake County Register of Deeds Office and Plat Book 11, Page 160, in the Granville Register of Deeds Office. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 9245 Mangum Dairy Road, Wake Forest, North Carolina. Commonly known as: 9245 Mangum Dairy Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587-9455 The property address and Tax Parcel Identification Number listed are provided solely for informational purposes.
Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Zachary V. Anderton and Rebecca W. Anderton (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Zachary V. Anderton and Rebecca W. Anderton) to William R. Echols, Trustee(s), dated March 11, 2016, and recorded in Book No. 016320, at Page 01962 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 in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on February 17, 2025 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: PROPERTY ADDRESS: 8109 Greywinds Drive, Raleigh, NC 27615 TAX ID: PIN #: 0174552 Lying and being in the City of Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina containing acres, more or less, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 214, Emerald Chase Subdivision, as recorded in Book of Maps 1987, Page, 1598, Wake County Registry, as re-recorded in Book of Maps 1988 Page 1761, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 8109 Greywinds Drive, Raleigh, 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
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 February 17, 2025 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 129, Pearl Ridge Subdivision, Phase 2, as shown on the plat recorded Book of Maps 2001, Pages 1728 and 1729, Wake County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 5505 Armada Drive, Raleigh, North Carolina. Parcel ID Number: 1732001741 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
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
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.
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
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
“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
A momentary hint of summer
North Carolina residents would be forgiven for being confused about the weather trends lately, but boaters on Jordan Lake made the most of a sunny, warm day last Tuesday. It didn’t last long, with rain and colder temps back on the menu this week.
U.S. inflation worsened in January with grocery, gas prices rising
Washington, D.C.
U.S. inflation accelerated last month as the cost of groceries, gas and used cars rose, a trend that will likely underscore the Federal Reserve’s resolve to delay any further interest rate cuts. The consumer price index increased 3% in January from a year ago, Wednesday’s report from the Labor Department showed, up from 2.9% the previous month. It has increased from a 31/2-year low of 2.4% in September. The figures underscore the stickiness of inflation.
UnitedHealthcare fined
$3.4M by N.C. for claims violations
Raleigh Insurance Commissioner
Mike Causey fined UnitedHealthcare
$3.4 million following a fouryear investigation into the company’s claims handling practices involving balance billing. The investigation found instances where UnitedHealthcare failed to follow its procedures to protect members from excess charges by out-of-network providers, particularly for emergency room and anesthesia services. While accepting the settlement, UnitedHealthcare denied violating any regulations. The company must provide a corrective action plan and submit to future compliance examinations.
$2.00
One appointment will be decided at a future date
By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal
ALBEMARLE — At the Stanly County Board of Commissioners meeting on Feb. 3, county commissioners were presented with two pending appointments delegated to board approval.
Elizabeth Underwood, Stanly County’s Economic Development Commission director, approached the commissioners requesting the appointment of a private sector representative for the county on the Centralina Workforce Development Board (WDB).
In a letter written to the county by Centralina WDB Executive Director David Hollars, Carmen Davenport — a development partner for human re-
sources at Norwood’s Michelin USA — was formally recommended for the position.
“The previous board member, Darryl Smith, has vacated his position,” Underwood said. “His term was supposed to end on June 30, 2026, and I’m here to request that Carmen Davenport be his replacement and appointed as a private sector representative on the board until June 30, 2026.”
Commissioner Scott Efird made the motion for Davenport’s appointment, which was seconded by Commissioner Billy Mills and confirmed with a unanimous 7-0 vote.
Stanly County has three members on the 20-member Centralina WDB nominated by the county commissioners and appointed by the Centralina Job Training Consortium to serve two-year terms.
Stanly Community College representative Candice Moffitt
“If you know somebody who’s interested in serving in this capacity, then let us know and we’ll get it before you again.”
Stanly County Manager Andy Lucas on the Gaston Community Action Board of Directors membership vacancy
and Charlotte Pipe and Foundry representative Brett Barbee will serve as the county’s other two members until their current terms expire June 30. Following Davenport’s appointment to the Centralina WDB, Stanly County Manager Andy Lucas notified the county commissioners that an email had been sent to the county office seeking a public represen-
tative for the Gaston Community Action board of directors. The board specifically requested a public official from Stanly County who can serve a three-year term expiring on Feb. 2, 2028. Kim Scott and Clair Watkins are currently the only representatives on the board for the county.
Gaston Community Action is a private nonprofit corporation first chartered by North Carolina in 1964 to operate an anti-poverty program for families and individuals in Gaston, Cleveland, Lincoln and Stanly counties.
The Gaston Community Action board of directors meets in Gastonia on the first Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. with a virtual option offered as well for attendees.
Lucas provided some additional context for the position,
See MEETING, page A2
An Outer Banks wildlife crossing will save people; can it save the last wild red wolves too?
A federal pilot program will build a 2.5-mile underpass for animals
By Allen G. Breed and Christina Larson
The Associated Press
ALLIGATOR RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
— Hunters were once the greatest human threat to the country’s only unique wolf species. Today, it’s motorists. That fact was brought home last June when red wolf breeding male No. 2444 was struck and killed on U.S. 64 near Manns Harbor,. His death likely meant five pups he’d been providing for died, too.
“We were hoping the mother would return and resume care, but she never did,” Joe Madison, head of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s red wolf recovery program, said during a recent visit to the site. For decades, conservationists have pushed for changes to U.S. 64, a busy two-lane highway to the popular Outer Banks that runs straight through the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge — one of just two places in the world where red wolves run free. They may finally be getting their wish.
In late December, the Federal Highway Administration
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North State Journal
(USPS 20451) (ISSN 2471-1365)
Neal Robbins, Publisher
Jim Sills, VP of Local Newspapers
Cory Lavalette, Senior Editor
Jordan Golson, Local News Editor
Shawn Krest, Sports Editor
Dan Reeves, Features Editor
Jesse Deal, Reporter
P.J. Ward-Brown, Photographer
BUSINESS
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MEETING from page A1
adding that the nonprofit pulls down community service block grant funding from the federal government to perform tasks such as weatherization of low-income homes, handicap ramps and window installations.
“They’re missing somebody who is a public official from Stanly County,” Lucas said. “A lot of times, the federal government pushes these boards to have a mix of representation, so then they ask us to find somebody to be on them.
“If you know somebody who’s interested in serving in this capacity, then let us know and we’ll get it before you again. I don’t know if we’ve gotten any applications, so maybe you all can think of somebody and then we can take action on this at some point in the future.”
The Stanly County Board of Commissioners is set to hold its next regular meeting on Feb. 17 at 6 p.m. inside the Gene McIntyre Meeting Room at Stanly County Commons.
The district is hosting a community information public meeting this week
By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal
ALBEMARLE — The Stanly County Board of Education is discussing the idea of a proposed redistricting for three elementary schools in the western part of the county.
Due to overcrowding at Locust Elementary School and Stanfield Elementary School, the current line of discussion has led to the prospect of moving 160 students to Endy Elementary School; Locust is currently 73 students over its capacity of 500, while Stanfield is 35 students over its capacity of 460. The recommendation is based on a study produced specifically for Stanly County Schools by Numerix, an American capital markets front-to -r isk technology provider and consulting firm. In a redistricting situation, Locust and Stanfield students who live closer to the Endy
area would be forced to change schools regardless of the time spent at their current locations.
At the school board’s regular meeting on Feb. 4, one day after the board held a special-called meeting to talk over redistricting plans, a public comment session was held where parents and students provided their own input on the topic.
“My son is a fourth grader at Locust Elementary,” said parent Ashley Eudy. “My family has put our heart, soul and money into the Locust community because Locust is who we are. … Moving my son to Endy is going to disrupt our life in a way that you could probably not understand because it doesn’t affect you directly. Trying to move approximately 160 kids is a big deal to the families of those 160 kids.”
Parents also mentioned their apprehension to redistricting due to increased bus ride times, other transportation issues and the overall socialization effects that a school change could have on their children.
“My house is right on the
line, so just move that line on down and come up with a better way than moving kids who are trying to live in a place where they want to be — not somebody new coming in and saying, ‘OK, well let’s make room and move those guys over there,’” said parent Phillip Blackwelder, who referenced the proposed redistricting maps.
Stanly County Schools announced Feb. 6 that there will be a community information public meeting at the West Stanly Middle School gymnasium on Feb. 13 at 6 p.m. where the school district will show a presentation of visuals, maps and data outlining the need for redistricting, guiding factors and proposed changes.
“To address increasing student enrollment and relieve overcrowding in our schools, Stanly County Schools is considering realignment adjustments for the upcoming school year for the Endy Elementary School feeder area,” Stanly County Schools said in a statement. “This will affect the attendance zones for Endy, Locust, and Stanfield. We un-
derstand this is an important topic for our community, and we want to ensure that families have access to clear, accurate information about the process.”
While there will not be a public comment session during the event, the public is encouraged to provide input regarding the proposed plan by filling out the online form at stanlycountyschools.org.
In a social media post, School Board Member Meghan Almond criticized the meeting’s lack of a public comment session.
“The decision of no public comments on Feb. 13 was not my decision,” she wrote. “I’m not sure how this decision was made! It’s absurd! As an elected official it is your job to listen to the people that hired you. Even when there is a confrontation. To silence the people who hire you is a disservice to what is expected.”
The Stanly County Board of Commissioners is set to meet again on March 4 at 6:15 p.m. in the Gene McIntyre Meeting Room at Stanly County Commons.
When does a heartbeat start? SC Supreme Court again takes up abortion issue
The current law remains in place as an effective six-week ban
By Jeffrey Collins The Associated Press
COLUMBIA, S.C. — With a heartbeat abortion ban solidly in place in South Carolina, lawyers for the state and Planned Parenthood returned to the state’s highest court Wednesday to argue how restrictive the ban should be.
The law is being enforced in South Carolina as a ban on almost all abortions around six weeks after conception, setting that mark as the time cardiac activity starts.
But Planned Parenthood and other abortion rights groups are arguing the 2023 law includes alternative definitions about the timing of a fetal heart forming and a “heartbeat” starting, and the true ban should start around nine or 10 weeks.
Both sides were set to argue for just over an hour at the South Carolina Supreme Court in Columbia. The justices likely will take several months to decide the case. In the meantime, the abortion ban around six weeks likely will remain in place after a lower court upheld it.
The exterior of the South
January 2023.
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The 2023 law says abortions cannot be performed after an ultrasound can detect “cardiac activity, or the steady and repetitive rhythmic contraction of the fetal heart, within the gestational sac.”
South Carolina and several other states place that at six weeks into development. But what follows the “or” in the sentence could require that a heart has formed, and medical experts say that doesn’t happen until around nine weeks.
The legal fight has been brewing since the state Supreme Court reversed itself after overturning a similar ban in 2021. The Republican-dom-
inated General Assembly then made small changes, and a justice who voted in the majority in the 3-2 decision to overturn the ban reached retirement age and was replaced.
In the decision upholding the new ban, the state Supreme Court itself noted the different definitions, saying resolving them would be a question “for another day.”
Since then, more inconsistencies in the law’s language have been brought up. The law refers≈to a fetal heartbeat, but most experts consider a fertilized egg to be an embryo for about 10 weeks after conception before transitioning into a fetus.
Lawyers for the state said the parsing of the language ignores the intent of the Legislature.
Both supporters and opponents of the bill called it nearly exclusively a six-week ban during debate in the House and Senate. Since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in 2022 and ended a nationwide right to abortion, most Republican-controlled states have started enforcing new bans or restrictions while most Democrat-dominated ones have sought to protect abortion access. Currently, 13 states are enforcing bans on abortion at all stages of pregnancy, with limited exceptions, and South Carolina and three others have bans that kick in at or about six weeks into pregnancy — often before women realize they’re pregnant. The latest lawsuit was filed
by South Carolina resident Taylor Shelton, who said she had sought medical attention for pain from her intrauterine device and was stunned to find out, just two days after missing her regularly tracked period, that she was pregnant. She ended up in North Carolina, driving for hours to several appointments to undergo an abortion because doctors in South Carolina were unsure how to define a heartbeat. Shelton couldn’t be completely sure she was within six weeks.
Some Republicans in South Carolina are also pushing for an outright abortion ban, but while legislation was introduced this January when the General Assembly started its two-year session, no hearings have been held.
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
The order prioritizes regulatory clarity, ensures fair access to banking services and repeals restrictive Biden-era policies.
LESS THAN A month into the second Trump administration, we are already seeing action on bold promises to bring clarity, regulatory reform and innovation to the crypto space — cutting burdensome regulations, reversing controversial Biden-era rulemakings and embracing digital assets at the national level. These commitments have resonated with a rapidly growing community eager for change.
On Feb. 4, Congress established a bicameral working group to develop a framework for stablecoin legislation and digital asset market structure.
Even before the inauguration, President Donald Trump made a decisive move by appointing Bo Hines as executive director of the Presidential Council of Advisers for Digital Assets, reinforcing his administration’s intent to position the United States as the global leader in digital financial innovation.
I’ve had the opportunity to engage with Hines extensively, and many North Carolinians know his name — not just from his congressional campaigns but also from his days as an NC State wide receiver. However, his greatest impact may come in the next six months, where Hines has been tasked to shepherd an emerging industry in dire need of clarity. His appointment, made official by Trump’s executive order “Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology” on Jan. 23, marks a sweeping shift in U.S. digital asset policy. The order prioritizes regulatory clarity, ensures fair access to banking services, supports lawful, dollar-backed stablecoins and repeals restrictive Biden-era policies.
While many may recall Hines’ time on the football field, it’s a fitting coincidence that he played in the Bitcoin St. Petersburg Bowl in 2014, a nod to Bitcoin’s early influence.
Now, 11 years later, Hines will work closely with White House AI and Crypto Czar and Silicon Valley tycoon David Sacks to develop a federal regulatory framework proposal for digital assets and deliver recommendations to Congress. And
Speaking of neighbors, I love mine.
“HAPPINESS IS PRETTY SIMPLE; someone to love, something to do and something to look forward to” ― Rita Mae Brown Brown also said, “One of the keys to happiness is having a bad memory,” but that is a subject for another day. It is Valentine’s Day, so let’s throw some love. I love the traffic circle. I know, I know, but it is one of the distinguishing characteristics of our beautiful community. The circle makes you stop, be present, be alert, be patient with your fellow travelers and polite to the drivers on your right and left. Commuters understand that they are passing through a special place. It is beautiful in every season, thanks to the attention of the ground crews, displaying a pride of place that welcomes us home.
The Food Lion, stepsister to the up-scale purveyors in the Sandhills, is great. No Starbucks, no dining, no farro or caviar, that’s OK. The service is amazing. Every stocker and cashier has a smile and a greeting for each customer, and they are patient with those who must count their pennies to purchase a meal. I love that.
I look forward to reading our local and state newspapers. Each week, we can take the pulse of our community between the lines. We can feel the beat of our economy in the ads and advertising invested in the Sandhills. Engaging in local politics is a healthy exercise that can warm our hearts and cool our jets. Our legacy and grassroots media sources support our local businesses, boost our sports teams and write our obituaries, tacking us to our neighbor’s activities.
Speaking of neighbors, I love mine. Some I rarely see, but I know where to find them. Knock out the power grid, threaten a snowstorm and watch the neighbors swing into action. Do you have a generator? Is your freezer working? Need some firewood? Would you like some soup? This seems to be the universal condition with good people in good places. We mind our own business most days, but watch what happens when your dog is missing or a fire truck comes down your street. Fire truck! Send some love to Fire Marshall Bryan Phillips, Sheriff Ronnie Fields and the teams they supervise on our behalf. They serve our community with great dedication and
these efforts must move swiftly. Per the executive order, the team will review existing regulations, recommend necessary modifications within 60 days and deliver a comprehensive policy report to the president within 180 days. A key initiative includes evaluating the creation of a strategic national digital assets stockpile — a move to strengthen the nation’s leadership in crypto.
Notably, Trump’s executive order also prohibits the federal government from issuing or promoting Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), ensuring that financial sovereignty and economic liberty remain at the forefront.
North Carolina took a leading role in this effort last year, passing the widely bipartisan H.B. 690, overriding Gov. Roy Cooper’s stunning veto and becoming a national model for resisting government- controlled digital currencies.
Hines’ appointment further underscores North Carolina’s dominance in digital asset policy, following the appointment of Paul Atkins as SEC chair, a fellow North Carolinian, and leaders like Patrick McHenry, Ted Budd, Tim Moore and Addison McDowell, who have emerged as national champions for crypto innovation in recent years.
With regulators like Hines and Atkins at the helm, the Trump administration is proving that its commitment to regulatory reform isn’t just rhetoric. This administration will deliver on its promises — not through excessive enforcement, but through clear rules, financial sovereignty and pro-innovation policies that ensure the United States leads in blockchain technology for generations to come. North Carolina has long been at the forefront of digital asset policy, and with Hines helping to shape federal regulation, the state’s leadership in fostering blockchain innovation will only grow stronger.
Dan Spuller is head of industry affairs for the Washington, D.C.-based Blockchain Association.
professional ability. Thank you. Thanks also to Mickey Foster, CEO of First Health of the Carolinas, and the Foundation of First Health. Their generosity and vision have gifted us with the Reed Heart Center, Clara McLean House, the Cancer Center and Building the Dream. Many of us believe we are living the dream.
I love our schools. Education has taken some hard knocks in recent years. School boards are the front line, taking heat from every direction. But Moore County has managed to build beautiful institutions that are sensitive to the neighborhoods they serve.
They are inspiring.
Our students and teachers continue to be challenged by external forces and internal reviews, but our students manage to thrive. Sandhills Community College sets a very high bar for excellence and relevance in this and surrounding counties. Sandy Stewart has quickly found his footing at the helm of our public institutions and partners well with our many private academies. The Cooperative Innovative High School on the SCC campus signifies devotion to expanding the opportunities for skilled workers and vocational development.
It’s a brave new world.
I look forward to attending The Village Chapel, the first interdenominational church in the United States. All are welcome. The Chapel is one of the many silent partners in our community that make us such a special place. If you rise early, you can partake in communion at 8 a.m. every Sunday and still make your tee time. Families show up for a rowdy service which includes an interactive children’s sermon at 9:30 a.m. For the more reverent, there is a full-on formal service at 11 a.m.
A big hug for the pastor who preaches three sermons on Sunday and keeps it real. Blessings to all the churches and organizations that keep the lights on at the Ark, The Food Bank, The Coalition and the other hundred agencies that make Moore County more.
“Someone to love, something to do, something to look forward to
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Connie Lovell lives in Pinehurst.
WILDLIFE from page A1
awarded the first grants under a new $125 million Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program. Unless the grants are somehow undone by President Donald Trump, part of the money will help state agencies and nonprofit groups rebuild a 2.5-mile section of the highway with fencing and a series of culverts, or small underpasses, to allow red wolves — as well as black bears, white-tailed deer and other animals — to pass safely underneath traffic.
“When you build wildlife bridges or underpasses, you reduce human-wildlife conflict,” said Duke University ecologist Stuart Pimm, who studies wildlife migrations but is not directly involved in the project. “There is increasing awareness that reducing traffic collisions is smart for wildlife, smart for people too.”
Other agency grants will support new bridges and underpasses for mule deer in Idaho, pronghorn antelope in New Mexico, and cougars and bears in Oregon, among other projects.
But what’s notable about the U.S. 64 project is that the goal is twofold: reducing dangerous collisions and roadkill — and saving a critically endangered species. There are thought to be fewer than 20 red wolves left in the wild; besides Alligator River, the other remaining habitat is in the nearby Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.
Madison calculates that No. 2444 represented 7% of the known wild red wolf population. “So, every time you get a mortality, that’s a significant hit,” he said.
Reducing roadkill — and saving a species?
Wildlife crossings have proliferated across the U.S. in the past 20 years with broad nonpartisan support. Most often, the objective is safety. One congressional report estimated that dangerous highway collisions with large animals kill hundreds of people and cost more than $8 billion each year.
Researchers have learned a lot about what works for different species.
“Pronghorn don’t want to go through tunnels or close spaces, so they avoid underpasses and need bridges,” said Arthur Middleton, an ecologist who studies animal migration at the University of California, Berkeley. “Whereas deer will go under or over.”
Gray wolves and coyotes — and, presumably, red wolves — will also use underpasses, or culverts, of 6 or 8 feet in diameter. Fencing is critical to funnel the animals to the structures.
Along U.S. 30 in Wyoming, seven small underpasses and fencing cut mule deer collisions by 81%. In Canada, a series of overpasses and underpasses along the Trans-Canada Highway in Banff National Park reduced collisions with hooved animals by 94%.
But whether wildlife crossings can help prevent extinctions is a harder question to answer.
“Conservation was always a part of the story, but now we’re seeing crossings increasingly pop up that have conservation as a primary rationale,” said Ben Goldfarb, author of the book “Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of Our Planet.”
Some of the most ambitious crossings for conservation have just been built — and it will take time to assess the results.
Outside Los Angeles, a wildlife crossing over 10 lanes of U.S. 101 is expected to open in 2026. The primary aim is to help connect the habitat of mountain lions, which need to cross the freeway to find suitable mates. Inbreeding among mountain lions in the LA region has already led to genetic mutations and decreased fertility.
In Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro state, construction of a wildlife bridge spanning BR 101 was finished in 2020, then native seedlings were planted in a soil bed. Once those trees mature, researchers will study if
the target species — an endangered monkey called a golden lion tamarin — uses the bridge regularly. Experts say the trees are necessary for creatures like monkeys or sloths to move across the bridge. Species that scamper on the ground, including foxes, anteaters and armadillos, are already crossing.
Hope at the end of the tunnel underpass for red wolves?
While it’s not certain that a wildlife crossing can save the last red wolves, scientists say that doing nothing will almost certainly hasten their demise.
Canis rufus, often called “America’s wolf,” once roamed from central Texas to southern Iowa and as far east as Long Island, New York. After being declared extinct in the wild, red wolves were reintroduced in North Carolina in 1987.
For about 20 years, the population grew steadily to reach around 120 animals. Then their numbers crashed — with vehicle collisions a primary culprit. One study found that vehicle strikes had killed about 5% of the red wolf population each
year between their reintroduction and 2022.
Marcel P. Huijser, a study co-author and a research ecologist at Montana State University’s Western Transportation Institute, warned that the cost of doing nothing, “including losing a wild species, can be far higher than the cost of implementing effective mitigation.”
In North Carolina, Fish and Wildlife biologists have tried other measures to prevent crashes — like flashing road signs and reflective collars — without much success.
Following No. 2444’s death, conservation groups like the Wildlands Network and the Center for Biological Diversity pushed for another solution.
In September, the North Carolina Department of Transportation submitted a grant application for the Red Wolf Essential Survival Crossings Under Evacuation Route — or RESCUER — project.
Plans for the U.S. 64 wildlife crossing call for a series of underpass structures — several of them big enough for wolves and other large mammals to pass through — and the accompanying fencing. The exact num-
ber and size of the underpasses has yet to be determined, said Travis W. Wilson, eastern habitat conservation coordinator for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
The estimated total cost for the project is about $31.5 million, including $4 million in private donations raised by conservation groups and an anonymous donor’s matching grant.
“This is one of the most important wildlife connectivity projects in the country,” said Beth Pratt, founder of the nonprofit The Wildlife Crossing Fund, which raised funds for the project. “Critically endangered red wolves will disappear if we do nothing.”
The Associated Press’s Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. AP’s climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
The Falcons have a 7-1 record since Jan. 15
By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal
MISENHEIMER — With seven wins in its past eight games, the Pfeiffer men’s basketball team has risen from the middle of the pack all the way to second place in the USA South Athletic Conference standings.
The Falcons have proven their ability to take a leap forward this season after a pair of disappointing 10-win seasons.
Eighth-year coach Pete Schoch’s team has a 12-7 overall record but has put together an impressive 8-2 record against conference opponents, landing Pfeiffer just a half-game behind Southern Virginia (18-4, 9-2 USA South) with four conference matchups left on the schedule.
On Saturday night, the Falcons took down the Knights in a 100-72 victory at home at
NFL
Longtime NFL player, coach Jauron dies at 74
Misenheimer’s Merner Gym. Pfeiffer jumped to a 53-33 halftime lead and finished with a 28-point win after outscoring the Knights by eight in the second half. Five Falcons finished in double figures (Daymon Beckwith, Alex Cunningham, Doug Smith, Jaylen Hamilton, Donte Forrester-Jhagroo) as the team notched its highest point total since racking up 104 points on Dec. 14.
Two days later, Beckwith was named the USA South Men’s Basketball Player of the Week after the senior guard averaged 19 points, five rebounds, 4.5 assists, 2.5 steals, and a 63% shooting percentage from the field against two conference opponents.
In Pfeiffer’s 81-75 win over Brevard (11-9, 6-5 USA South) on Feb. 4, Beckwith scored a career-best 23 points along with four rebounds, four steals, and two assists.
The Jacksonville native’s 16.7 points per game currently ranks third in the conference, while
Chicago Longtime NFL player and coach Dick Jauron, who led the Chicago Bears to the playoffs and was voted AP coach of the year in 2001, died at 74. The Bears confirmed his death, which came one day before the Super Bowl. Jauron briefly served as an Eagles assistant to current Chiefs coach Andy Reid. Jauron was a two-sport standout at Yale before spending eight years as a defensive back in the NFL. Along with taking the Bears to the playoffs, he spent four seasons as the coach of the Bills. He retired from coaching in 2012.
former North Stanly star Doug Smith leads the USA South in rebounding (8.9) and is second in blocks (1.6).
The Falcons squared off with Methodist (6-14, 2-7 USA South) on Wednesday night in Fayetteville, and will next head to Greensboro this weekend to face the Pride (3-18, 2-8 USA South) before rounding out the regular season at home with Williams Peace (3-17, 1-8 USA South) on Feb. 18 and Mary Baldwin (12-9, 6-4 USA South) on Feb. 22.
The USA South Tournament is scheduled to begin on Feb. 25, with the championship game set for March 1; the Falcons defeated NC Wesleyan in the first round before losing to Greensboro in the semifinals in last season’s tournament.
Following its eight USA South victories this season, Pfeiffer now has a 50-46 conference record since reclassifying from NCAA Division II to Division III and beginning play in the USA South during the 2018-19 season.
Woods to play at Torrey Pines, first PGA event since July
San Diego Tiger Woods committed to playing the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines, returning to one of his favorite venues for his first PGA Tour start since the British Open last July. Woods will be playing 18 holes in competition for the first time since he had a microdiscectomy in September to alleviate pain down his legs, his sixth surgery on his lower back. He will also be playing just over a week after the loss of his mother, Kultida Woods, who died last Tuesday at age 80.
Charlie Shaver is a junior pitcher on the North Stanly baseball team and also plays quarterback for the Comets’ football team.
Baseball season is just about to get started, but Shaver is already having an eventful 2025. He picked up the Rising Star of the Year award at the annual Hot Stove Dinner, and last week, he committed to play college baseball at Old Dominion.
Los Angeles and the New York Mets were the big offseason spenders
By Ronald Blum
The Associated Press
SPRING TRAINING workouts started Sunday with the Dodgers trying to become the first repeat champion since the New York Yankees won three in a row from 1998 to 2000.
Coming off their second title in five seasons, the Dodgers added Roki Sasaki, the prized 23-year-old right-hander from Japan, and left-hander Blake Snell to a pitching staff expecting two-way star Shohei Ohtani to return to the mound in April or May after recovering from elbow surgery.
“Kudos to them. They’re doing everything right,” said Toronto pitcher Max Scherzer, who pitched for the Dodgers briefly in 2021. “They have a well-oiled machine.”
Los Angeles opens the season in Tokyo against the Chicago Cubs with a two-game series starting March 18. The Cubs are the first team to start practice, on Sunday in Mesa, Arizona, and all clubs will be on the field by Thursday.
Hooray for Hollywood
Los Angeles committed $452 million to eight players during the offseason. The Dodgers kept utilityman Tommy Edman with a $74 million, five-year contract, outfielder Teoscar Hernández with a $66 million, three-year deal and right-hander Blake Treinen for $22 million over two years. In addition to Sasaki ($6.5 million signing bonus) and Snell ($182 million for five years), the Dodgers added reliever Tanner Scott ($72 million for four years), outfielder Michael Conforto` ($17 million for one season) and second baseman Hyeseong Kim ($12.5 million for three years).
Tyler Glasnow is projected for the rotation after finishing last season on the injured list. Three-time Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw is expected to re-sign and return after he recovers from knee and toe operations.
“The Dodgers are a really wellrun, successful organization,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said. “Everything that they do and have done is consistent with our rules. ... I recognize, however, and my emails certainly reflect that there are fans in other markets who are concerned about their team’s
ability to compete. And we always have to be concerned when our fans are concerned about something. But pinning it on the Dodgers, I’m not in that camp.”
Mets also paying top dollar
In search of the team’s first World Series title since 1986, New York Mets owner Steve Cohen gave a record $765 million, 15-year contract to outfielder Juan Soto, luring him from the rival Yankees, part of a $925 million splurge on eight free agents.
“If you want something that’s amazing, it’s going to be uncom-
fortable. It’s never going to be comfortable,” Cohen said. “And so I always stretch a little bit because I know that’s what it takes to get it done.”
Following an NL Championship Series loss to the Dodgers, the Mets also added righthanders Frankie Montas, Clay Holmes and Griffin Canning along with left-hander A.J. Minter, and re-signed first baseman Peter Alonso, left-hander Sean Manaea, right-hander Ryne Stanek and outfielder Jesse Winker. They acquired outfielder Jose Siri in a trade with Tampa Bay.
Searching for ruby slippers Tampa Bay and the Athletics will be preparing for vagabond seasons in minor league ballparks. After 57 years in Oakland, the A’s will play at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento for at least three seasons before moving to a planned ballpark in Las Vegas. The Rays will play at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, the spring training home of the Yankees, for 2025 because of damage at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg caused by Hurricane Milton.
owner Joe
Edwards had been leading late when a questionable caution was thrown and Edwards was wrecked on the restart.
By Jenna Fryer
The Associated Press
CHARLOTTE
— One of the toughest drivers in NASCAR history joined one the most enigmatic drivers of the modern era as the newest inductees into the Hall of Fame in a star-studded ceremony.
Ricky Rudd, known as the “Ironman” for his 788 consecutive starts over a 32-year career, was feted for his grit. Following a crash the week before the Daytona 500, Rudd’s eyes were so swollen he used duct tape to keep them open so he
could race. In reality, it was injuries to his ribs that bothered him most.
“He had a job to do, and nothing was going to stop him,” said seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and fellow Hall of Famer Richard Petty. Rudd also didn’t stand down to anyone, and his ability to defend himself prevented many confrontations that might have happened during NASCAR’s rougher days.
“He’s a guy who demands respect and deserves to be in the Hall of Fame,” said fellow Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace. Also inducted was Carl Edwards, a popular driver who abruptly quit the sport after his second controversial loss of a Cup Series title.
Edwards, always extremely popular, was tough to get a true read on during his career as many of his fellow competitors found him to be fake. Hall of Famer Tony Stewart, who beat Edwards on a tiebreaker for the 2011 championship, used to call Edwards “Eddie Haskell” for his penchant of being polite and friendly in front of cameras and fans, but not so nice to his fellow competitors. He lamented in his speech “the facade of reputation” and admitted he was “kind of being a douchebag,” in not being friends with his fellow competitors. Edwards said, “If I had been a little more mature, a little bit less self-centered, had a little more perspective ... we could have been more
than enemies on the racetrack.”
When Edwards lost a second title in 2016 and abruptly quit the sport — and literally vanished from the NASCAR community — he thought he’d never again be part of it.
“I left eight years ago, and I thought I was truly turning my back on this whole sport. I thought I was making a choice between this sport and my family,” Edwards said. “And you know, every prize has its price, and for me, the prize of my family was worth that price. What you’ve done here, though, is you’ve let me win both ways.”
“He had a real focus in his professional career, he is a real credit to our sport and he was a superstar,” said Hall of Fame
“I remember him sitting down and saying ‘Hey, Joe, I think it’s time for me to step away from racing,’” recalled Gibbs. “And I go, ‘What? Here’s a guy who is in his prime, and for him to say that, I think it was one of the more shocking things that happened to me in sports.” Also inducted was the late Ralph Moody, who was elected on the pioneer ballot. Dr. Dean Sicking, who is credited with creating the life-saving SAFER barrier following Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s 2001 death, was the Landmark Award winner for contribution to the sport, and retired motorsports writer Mike Harris of The Associated Press was honored as recipient of the 2025 Squier-Hall Award for NASCAR Media Excellence.
Thieves linked to South American gangs are behind the sophisticated heists
By John Seewer and Dave Collins The Associated Press
FOR MONTHS, daring bands of thieves linked to South American gangs have been making off with piles of jewelry and cash from the homes of the biggest superstars in sports, targeting the likes of the NFL’s Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce.
Sophisticated pillagers have deployed drones and signal jamming devices, sometimes posing as delivery drivers or maintenance workers, to gain access to gated neighborhoods and thwart
home security systems, according to warnings issued by the NFL and NBA.
But in recent weeks, investigators across the U.S. have made a handful of arrests connected to at least one of the high-profile heists and discovered stolen sports memorabilia, jewelry and art stuffed into storage units in New Jersey.
A group of Chilean men stopped in January while driving in Ohio were charged with stealing nearly $300,000 worth of designer luggage, watches and jewelry from Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow’s house.
Photos showed one suspect wearing a sparkly necklace with Burrow’s jersey number that he had worn during interviews.
“These individuals seem to be the alleged tip of the iceberg,”
said Kenneth Parker, the U.S. Attorney in southern Ohio, who believes the men are working with South American theft rings that for years have been ransacking opulent homes from coast to coast.
Some luxury watches and jewelry stolen from homes across the country — not just those belonging to athletes — ended up being sold at a pawnshop in Manhattan’s Diamond District and stashed away in nearby storage units.
Investigators say international crime rings have looted high-end houses for years, but now they’re going after some of the biggest names in the NFL, NBA and NHL.
Thieves broke into the homes of Kansas City Chiefs teammates Mahomes and Kelce within days
of each other in October around the time they played New Orleans and Kelce’s superstar girlfriend Taylor Swift watched the game from the stands. Jewelry valued at about $30,000 was stolen from NBA All-Star Luka Doncic’s home in Dallas in December. Pittsburgh Penguins star Evgeni Malkin reported a home invasion in January that happened while his team was playing at home.
Law enforcement officials warned sports leagues last fall that thieves had been striking on game days when they knew the players would not be home, often smashing through rear windows.
Some of the groups scoped out their targets by posing as home delivery drivers or joggers in secluded neighborhoods.
Burrow’s home in Ohio, which
sits on a gated street tucked along a wooded area, was broken into while he was in Dallas for a “Monday Night Football” game in December. The men charged in the invasion were found weeks later traveling with a Husky glass-breaking tool that one of them bought at Home Depot.
Players have been advised to not only beef up their home security but also avoid posting their whereabouts on social media.
The theft rings are focused on cash and items that can be resold on the black market, such as jewelry, watches and luxury bags, according to an NBA warning based on information from the FBI.
The two men indicted this week in New York City were accused of buying stolen watches, jewelry and other expensive items from a variety of burglary crews and reselling them at their pawnshop in Manhattan since 2020.
Court documents said the pair were tied to five separate burglary crews.
April 17, 1936 ~ January 14, 2023
Sept. 9, 1937 – Feb. 8, 2025
Barbara Jean Taylor Drye, 86, of Oakboro, passed away Saturday, January 14, 2023 at her home.
Nester “Pete” William Biles, 87, of Albemarle passed away on Saturday, February 8. 2025 in Atrium Health Stanly. His funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, in the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel with Pastor Ron Loflin officiating. Burial will follow in Stanly Gardens of Memory. The family will receive friends on Tuesday evening from 6 to 8 p.m. at Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle.
January 24, 1939 ~ January 15, 2023
March 10, 1933 – Feb. 6, 2025
Dwight Britten Farmer Sr., 83, of Norwood died Sunday morning, January 15, 2023 at Forrest Oakes.
Dwight was born January 24, 1939 in Stanly County to the late Walter Virgil and Martha Adkins Farmer. He was a 1957 graduate of Norwood High School and was a United States Army Veteran.
Walter Thomas Thompson, 91, of Albemarle passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2025, in Forrest Oakes. His graveside service will be 11 a.m. on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, in Stanly Gardens of Memory with Rev. Adam Hatley officiating.
Born September 9, 1937, in Stanly County, NC he was the son of Lewis Daniel Norstrand and Nellie Biles Norstrand. He was retired as a mechanic with Henry’s Truck and Equipment Sales. He loved his dogs, especially Lexie and Bean.
Barbara was born April 17, 1936 in North Carolina to the late Robert Lee Taylor and the late Eva Belle Watts Taylor. She was also preceded in death by husband of 61 years, Keith Furr Drye, and brothers, Robert Lee Taylor, Jr. and George Kenneth Taylor. Survivors include children, Debbie (Mike) Williams of Albemarle, Teresa (Tom) Curry of Oakboro, Douglas (Tammy) Drye of Oakboro; grandchildren, Melissa (Don) Parrish of Albemarle, Samantha (Destiny) Smith of Oakboro, Bradley Smith of Oakboro, Jonathan Stover of Peachland, and Jessie Stover of Lylesville; sisterin-law, Beatrice Goodman; many nieces and nephews; and her beloved cats, Bo and Garfield.
Barbara was a member of Oakboro Baptist Church for over 60 years. She worked over 30 years at Stanly Knitting Mills. After just two years of retirement, she began managing the Oakboro Senior Center and did that for 18 years until this past week. Barbara was known for her good cooking and always taking care of others. She also loved going on day long shopping trips - she could out walk and out shop people half her age. She kept her mind and body active through gardening, word searches, and various other hobbies.
Mr. Biles is survived by six children Carol Biles of Albemarle, Will Biles (Paul) of Denver Colorado, Jo Lynn Clark of Oakboro, Burl Biles (Sybil) of Albemarle, Jonathan Biles of Albemarle, Jessica Biles of Albemarle, step-son Ken Huneycutt (Amy) of Faith, companion Tammy Measimer,11 grandchildren, Kellie Biles, Michelle Biles, Shea Clark, Kamren Clark (Janie Eller), Daniel Biles, Deanna Bushey (Anthony), Isaiah Blaylock, Danielle Blaylock, Angalia Blaylock, Caleb Biles, Krystal Greene and one great-granddaughter Alison Lester.
He was a member of Cedar Grove United Methodist Church where he had served as church treasurer and choir member. He began his career with the Stanly County Sheriff’s Department moving to the Norwood Police Department and retiring as Chief of Police with the Town of Norwood after many years of service.
Dwight was an avid gardener, bird watcher and Carolina fan.
Born March 10, 1933, in Stanly County, NC he was the son of the late Cletus A. Thompson and Mary Lucy Huneycutt Thompson. He was a 20-year retiree from the US Airforce serving in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. He also worked with the City of Albemarle Water and Wastewater Departments. He was a member of West Albemarle Baptist Church.
Mr. Thompson was preceded in death by his wife, Ruby Corbett Thompson. He is survived by a number of nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by brothers, Carl Thompson and Ralph Junior Thompson and a sister Joyce Ann Hughes. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to West Albemarle Baptist Church, 336 Church Street, Albemarle, NC 28001.
He is survived by his wife Hilda Whitley Farmer; one son D. Britten Farmer Jr. (Mary) of McLeansville, NC; one daughter Sharon Farmer Lowe (David) of Norwood; one sister Geraldine Dennis of Troy; two grandchildren, Dwight Britten “Dee” Farmer III and Whitley Rose Hui Lowe.
He was preceded in death by his son Alex, brothers, Tommy and Jimmy, sisters, Nancy, Cornelia Annabell, Glennie Mae, and Betty. Memorials may be made to Cedar Grove United Methodist Church, Cemetery or Choir Fund c/o Pam Smith 36071 Rocky River Springs Road, Norwood, NC 28128.
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Randolph Record at obits@stanlyjournal.com
Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in SCJ at obits@stanlyjournal.com
June 23, 1967 ~ January 10, 2023
James Arthur Roseboro, 55, of Albemarle, passed away Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at Anson Health and Rehab.
Aug. 22, 1929 – Feb. 4, 2025
Mr. Roseboro was born on June 23, 1967 to the late Robert and Delena Shipp Roseboro. He graduated from South Stanly High School and was employed by Triangle Brick. He enjoyed watching football and basketball, especially the Carolina TarHeels and Miami.
In addition to his parents he is preceded in death by his brothers and sisters: Barbara Lee Roseboro, Dorothy Brown, Verna Roseboro, Henrietta Ingram, and Harold Roseboro.
He is survived by his sisters: Helen (James) Roseboro Edwards of Albemarle, Mary Roseboro of Washington DC, and Marion Morrison of Albemarle; brothers: Thomas D. Roseboro of Charlotte, Robert Roseboro (Patricia) of Norwood, and Van Horne; a special friend of over 40 years, Michelle McLendon of the home; special nieces: Nybrea Montague, Knya Little, and Laquanza Crump; special nephews: Robert Jr., Desmond Roseboro, and Marcus Lilly; and God daughter, Daphne Johnson; and special friends, Vetrella Johnson and Ben McLendon.
January 7, 1973 ~ January 8, 2023
Darrick Vashon Baldwin, age 50, entered eternal rest, Sunday, January 8, 2023, Albemarle, North Carolina. Born January 7, 1973, in Stanly County, North Carolina, Darrick was the son of Eddie James Baldwin Sr. and the late Phyllis Blue Baldwin. Darrick enjoyed life, always kept things lively and enjoyed making others smile. His presence is no longer in our midst, but his memory will forever live in our hearts.
He was educated in the Stanly County public schools and attended Albemarle Senior High School, Albemarle.
Nancy Helen Blackwelder Myers, 95, of Albemarle passed away on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at Trinity Place of Albemarle. Her Celebration of Life will be at 1 p.m. on Friday, February 7, 2025, at Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care Chapel in Albemarle, officiated by her grandsons Pastor Shon Barrier and Dr. Reverend Joshua Peeler. Burial will follow at Stanly Gardens of Memory. The family will receive friends from 12 pm to 12:45 p.m. prior to the hour of service. Nancy was born in Iredell County on August 22, 1929, to the late Jason and Marybelle Blackwelder. She is lovingly survived by her daughter Carol Myers Offi (Bruce) of Trinity, and her son Ralph W. Myers Jr. (Jan) of Richfield. Those also left to cherish her memory are grandchildren, Shon Barrier (Pam) of High Point, Ryan Barrier (Kristina) of Matthews, Joshua Peeler (Anna) of Albany, LA, Michael Peeler of Charlotte, and Seth Myers, great-grandchildren, Kayla Barrier, Kassidy Barrier, Karley Barrier, River Bain, Will Barrier, Zach Barrier, Madison Barrier, Hayley Myers, McKenzie Myers Whitley (Blake) and Judah Peeler. Nancy was preceded in death by her husband Ralph W. Myers in 2011. They were married for 61 years. She was also preceded in death by her daughter Trudy E. Myers-Peeler, grandsons, Joseph Peeler and Jason Myers, siblings, Doris Parish, Dorothy Lord, and Harold Blackwelder. Nancy retired from Knisters Textiles after 32 years of service. She was a member of First Assembly Church, where she volunteered in the Children’s Ministry, and the Hospitality Ministry where she served as a greater. Nancy also loved her friends at Stony Hill United Methodist Church which she had attended in earlier years. Nancy loved sewing, quilting, gardening, she loved convertibles, watching basketball, going to the beach, and spending time with her family. She will be missed by all who knew her! The family would like to express their sincere gratitude to the staff at Trinity Place of Albemarle and Tillery Compassionate Care for the care they provided to Nancy during her declining health. The family requests memorials be sent to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital (www.stjude.org/donate/donateto-st-jude).
He was a great conversationalist and loved meeting people. Darrick never met a stranger and always showed love and compassion for his fellowman. He also loved his dog, Rocky.
He is survived by his father, Eddie J. Baldwin Sr.; sisters: Crystal (Eric) Jackson, LaFondra (Stoney) Medley, and Morgan Baldwin; brothers: Eddie Baldwin Jr., Anton Baldwin, and Lamont Baldwin; a host of other relatives and friends. A limb has fallen from our family tree. We will not grieve Darrick’s death; we will celebrate his life. We give thanksgiving for the many shared memories.
John B. Kluttz
March 23, 1935 - January 9, 2023
Nov. 14, 1939 – Feb. 3, 2025
John grew up in the Millingport community where he drove a school bus and worked at the local gas station during his High School years. He graduated from Millingport High in 1954 and entered into service with the US Airforce immediately afterward. Upon return from the service, he and his high school sweetheart Julie were married in 1956. He graduated from Nashville Auto Diesel College later in 1959 and began his career as a diesel mechanic at Mitchell Distributing Company, moving his growing family to Charlotte where they lived until their retirement.
When John purchased his first Model A Ford at the age of 17, he said that he took the car to the community mechanic when he had a small problem.The mechanic told him that if he was going to keep the car, he needed to learn to work on it. This is when John’s passion for Model A Fords began and how he spent his happiest days with his best friends from around the globe for the rest of his life!
At age 50, after years as a Detroit Diesel Mechanic he and Julie decided to take the plunge and open a full Model A Restoration Shop. They thrived at their shop in Cornelius, NC until their retirement in 1998 when they moved back to Cabarrus County. John once again set up shop in his back yard garage where he attracted a loyal group of friends who visited almost daily. While on the farm in Gold Hill, John also began a lifelong love with Alis Chalmers tractors after he restored his Dad’s tractor and began amassing his collection of tractors as well.
John restored many cars of his own and had the crowning achievement of winning the most prestigious award from MARC, The Henry for a restoration that garnered top points. He was also presented with the Ken Brady Service Awardthe highest award given to members at the national level.
This is what John’s Model A Community had to say upon learning of his death: He was an active member of Wesley Chapel Methodist Church where he loved serving as greeter on Sunday mornings. He also belonged to the United Methodist Men.
Marney James Lowder, 85, of Sunset Beach, formerly of Albemarle, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 3, 2025, with his wife by his side. His funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Mission Baptist Church, officiated by Pastor Jeremy Hyde. Burial will follow at Fairview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Thursday at the church from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. prior to the service. Marney was born in Stanly County on November 14, 1939, to the late Roscoe and Maifield Lowder. He is lovingly survived by his wife, Priscilla Burris Lowder of 63 years, dating 8 years before. They had 71 years together. Those also left to cherish his memory are sons, Eric Lowder and his wife Brenda of Ocean Isle and Brad Lowder and his wife Alicia of Locust, grandchildren Brandon Byrd (Jessica), Shane Byrd (Sonya), Erika Galloway (Daniel), Kimrey Lowder, and Laci Lowder, eight great-grandchildren, two greatgreat-grandchildren and two brothers, Ronald G. Lowder and Tim W. Lowder (Pat). Marney was also preceded in death by a sister Gail Lowder Pickler. Marney grew up in Albemarle and attended Albemarle High School, class of 1958. He attended Ringling School of Arts in Sarasota, FL. Upon completion, he enlisted in the Air Force and used his artistic ability during the Vietnam War, drawing field missions. After leaving the Air Force, he was a package designer in Charlotte for many years. He later taught graphic art in Char-Meck, Stanly, and Cabarrus County schools. Marney was a member of both the Mecklenburg and Stanly County Art Guild, serving as President of the Stanly Co Art Guild. After retirement, he continued his artistic talents by weaving baskets and caning chairs at the Stanly Senior Center. Marney was a devout Christian. He was a member of Mission Baptist Church, where he taught Sunday School, and was a member of the Baptist Men. Marney loved his family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed fixing their bicycles and toys. Marney’s true passion was fishing, which led him to the beach. He loved the sport and enjoyed teaching his children how to fish. Marney was most notable for his storytelling and artistic skill, often telling stories about his time in the Air Force and in Art School. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him!
John is survived by his wife Julie Ussery Kluttz, for 66 years of the home. He is also survived by a son John David Kluttz (Kim) of Oakboro, NC; two daughters, Sally Simerson of Denver, CO and Betsy Tusa (John) of Lafayette, CO; three grandchildren, Bonnie Kluttz Sammons (Ben) of Richfield, NC John Alexander McKinnon (Sarah) of Asheville, NC and Seth William McKinnon (Amanda) of Germany; five great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Meredith, Grant, Victoria and Ronan. John is also preceded in death by his parents, J.S. Kluttz and Mary Wyatt Clayton Kluttz; a large and loving group of brothers and sisters, Jack Methias Kluttz, Annie Lou Kluttz Honeycutt, Jake Nelson Kluttz, Julius Kluttz, Mary Patricia Phillips and a grandson, Kevin Fowler Kluttz.
Oct. 18, 1958 – Feb. 3, 2025
October 11, 1944 - January 10, 2023
Nelda Russell Scarboro, 66, of Albemarle passed away Monday, February 3, 2025, at Atrium Health Stanly. Her funeral service will be at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 7, 2025, at the Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care Chapel-Albemarle officiated by Rev. Bob Gruver and Rev. Nate Drye. Burial will follow at Fairview Memorial Park. The family will receive friends on Friday from 9:30 until 10:45 prior to the hour of service.
Nelda was born in Stanly County on October 18, 1958, to the late Aaron and Viola Russell. She is lovingly survived by her husband, Danny Scarboro. Those also left to cherish her memory are her son, Eric Scarboro (Molly) of Moorehead City, daughter Michelle S. Dick of Albemarle, grandchildren, Christopher Dick, Matthew Dick, Eli Dick, Catherine Dick, Carson Scarboro, Peyton Scarboro, Moira Scarboro, Nathan Springle and brother Edmund Russell (Peggy).
Doris Elaine Jones Coleman, 78, went home into God’s presence on January 10 after a sudden illness and a valiant week-long fight in ICU. Doris was born on October 11, 1944, in the mountains of Marion, NC while her father was away fighting in the US Navy during World War II. Raymond Jones was so proud to return after the war and meet his little girl! Doris grew up in Durham, NC and graduated from Durham High School. She furthered her studies at Watts Hospital School of Nursing in Durham and graduated as a Registered Nurse in 1966.
Nelda was a member of First Assembly Church and very involved while her health permitted. She loved her family, especially her grandchildren. Nelda will be dearly missed by all who knew her.
Doris married Rev. Dr. Ted Coleman in 1966 and had two daughters Amy and Laura. Doris raised Amy and Laura in North Augusta, SC. Doris was an incredible neonatal intensive care nurse for most of her career, and this was her passion. The Augusta Chronicle did a feature on her in 1985. She was a clinical nurse manager in Augusta, Georgia at University Hospital NICU and worked there for 20 years. During this time, Doris mentored young nurses and assisted in saving the lives of so many babies. She also worked for Pediatrician Dr. William A. Wilkes in Augusta for several years prior to her NICU career. Doris retired from the mother/baby area at Atrium Stanly in 2007 after over 40 years of nursing.
Doris was a gentle and sweet spirit and loved her Lord. She never met a stranger, and she always left you feeling uplifted after talking with her. She would often claim that she had “adopted” friends into her immediate family, and honestly, she never made a distinction between the two. Positivity radiated from her like sunlight. She was selfless, funny, smart, and sentimental. During her lifetime she was an active member of First Baptist Church of Durham, First Baptist Church of Augusta, Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Augusta, and Palestine United Methodist Church in Albemarle. She especially loved helping at church with older adults, youth, and children.
She was especially talented at sewing from a young age and made gifts for friends, Christmas ornaments, Halloween Costumes, doll clothes, pageant dresses, prom dresses, coats, tote bags, scarves, outfits for Amy and Laura, and Christening gowns for each of her grandchildren.
Doris was preceded in death by her father Arthur Raymond Jones, her mother Mary Ellen Cameron Jones, and her sister Maryanne Jones Brantley. Survivors include her two precious daughters: Amy Cameron Coleman (partner Dr. Edward Neal Chernault) of Albemarle, NC, and Laura Lindahl Coleman Oliverio (husband David) of Cincinnati, Ohio; seven grandchildren: Cameron David Oliverio, Stephanie Jae Dejak, Luca Beatty Oliverio, Coleman John Dejak, Carson Joseph Oliverio, Ryan Nicholas Dejak, and Jadon Richard Oliverio; and numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved ones.
A masked man gave the author life-threatening injuries in 2022
By Carolyn Thompson and Hillel Italie
The Associated Press
MAYVILLE, N.Y. — Salman
Rushdie described in graphic detail Tuesday the frenzied moments in 2022 when a masked man rushed at him on a stage in western New York and repeatedly slashed him with a knife, leaving him with life-threatening injuries.
The 77-year-old author addressed jurors on the second day of testimony at the trial of Hadi Matar, 27, who has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and assault in the attack. It was the first time since the attack that Rushdie found himself in the same room with the man accused of trying the kill him.
“I only saw him at the last minute,” Rushdie said. “I was aware of someone wearing black clothes, or dark clothes and a black face mask. I was very struck by his eyes, which were dark and seemed very ferocious.”
His wife, Rachel Eliza Griffiths, cried from her seat in the courtroom’s second row.
Rushdie was blinded in one eye in the attack and spent months recovering, a process he detailed in a memoir released last year. A speaker who was to appear with Rushdie also was wounded.
Jurors heard opening statements Monday, followed by testimony from staffers at the Chautauqua Institution, the nonprofit art and education center where the attack happened about 75 miles south of Buffalo.
Matar has been in custody since he was subdued by spectators after the attack.
The trial is expected to last up to two weeks.
which some Muslims consider blasphemous.
Schmidt has said discussing Matar’s motive will be unnecessary in the state trial, given the attack was seen by a live audience that was expecting to hear Rushdie present a lecture on keeping writers safe.
“This is not a case of mistaken identity,” Schmidt said during opening statements Monday. “Mr. Matar is the person who attacked Mr. Rushdie without provocation.”
A public defender representing Matar told jurors that the case is not as straightforward as prosecutors have made it out to be.
“The elements of the crime are more than ‘something really bad happened’ — they’re more defined,” Lynn Schaffer said.
“But I saw a large quantity of blood pouring onto my clothes,” he said. “He was hitting me repeatedly. Hitting and slashing.”
Rushdie said he was struck more times in his chest and torso and stabbed in his chest as he struggled to get away.
Rushdie said he first thought his knife-wielding attacker was striking him with a fist.
While lying on the stage, he recalled “a sense of great pain and shock, and aware of the fact that there was an enormous quantity of blood that I was lying in.”
“It occurred to me that I was dying. That was my predominant thought,” he said.
“I was very badly injured. I couldn’t stand up any more. I fell down,” he said.
Jurors are unlikely to hear about a fatwa issued by the late Iranian leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini calling for Rushdie’s death, according to District Attorney Jason Schmidt.
Rushdie, the author of “Midnight’s Children” and “Victory City,” spent years in hiding after Khomeini announced the fatwa in 1989 following publication of the novel “The Satanic Verses,”
The case has been followed closely by true crime fans
By Michael Casey
The Associated Press
BOSTON — Massachusetts’ top court ruled Tuesday that Karen Read can be retried on all the same charges in the death of her Boston police officer boyfriend, the latest twist in the long-running case that transfixed true crime fans nationwide.
Prosecutors have sought to retry Read this year on charges of second-degree murder, manslaughter and leaving the scene of a crime. They accused her of ramming into John O’Keefe with her SUV and leaving him to die in a snowstorm in January 2022. Read’s attorneys argue she was framed to protect other law enforcement officers involved in O’Keefe’s death.
A judge declared a mistrial in June after finding jurors couldn’t reach an agreement, without polling the jurors to confirm their conclusions.
Read’s attorney Martin Weinberg argued that five jurors later said they were deadlocked only
on the manslaughter count, and had unanimously agreed in the jury room that she wasn’t guilty on the charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. But they hadn’t told the judge.
The ruling from the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court clears the way for a new trial on all three charges.
“The jury clearly stated during deliberations that they had not reached a unanimous verdict on any of the charges and could not do so. Only after being discharged did some individual jurors communicate a different supposed outcome, contradicting their prior notes,” the judges wrote. “Such posttrial disclosures cannot retroactively alter the trial’s outcome —either to acquit or to convict.”
The judges also found “no abuse of discretion” in Judge Beverly Cannone’s decision to declare a mistrial.
“After extensive, multiday deliberations, the jury submitted several increasingly emphatic notes about their inability to reach a unanimous verdict,” they wrote, adding that the record before the judge “suggested complete deadlock.”
Read’s lawyer said they’re
considering their legal options.
“While we have great respect for the Commonwealth’s highest court, Double Jeopardy is a federal constitutional right,” Weinberg said in a statement.
“We are strongly considering whether to seek federal habeas relief from what we continue to contend are violations of Ms. Read’s federally guaranteed constitutional rights.” Weinberg had urged the court to allow an a evidentiary
Karen Read and her defense team and the prosecution filed motions in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham, Massachusetts, in November.
“Something bad did happen, something very bad did happen, but the district attorney has to prove much more than that.”
In a separate indictment, federal authorities allege Matar was driven to act by a terrorist organization’s 2006 endorsement of the fatwa. A later trial on federal terrorism charges will be scheduled in U.S. District Court in Buffalo.
The judges questioned Weinberg over the the merits for holding an inquiry. Associate Justice Frank Gaziano noted that such inquiries are usually reserved for “extraneous information” such as “racisms in the jury room.” Chief Justice Kimberly Budd wondered about the limits of allowing an inquiry, which she suggested could open the door for other defendants to argue a juror came to them to say “that’s not really what happened.”
Cannone ruled in August that Read could be retried on all three charges.
“Where there was no verdict announced in open court here, retrial of the defendant does not violate the principle of double jeopardy,” Cannone said.
hearing where jurors could be asked whether they had reached final not guilty verdicts on any of the charges.
Prosecutors maintained there’s no basis for dismissing the charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. They argued that her lawyers should have sensed a mistrial was “inevitable or unavoidable” and that they had every opportunity to be heard in the trial courtroom.
Prosecutors said Read, a former adjunct professor at Bentley College, and O’Keefe, a 16 -year member of the Boston police, had been drinking heavily before she dropped him off at a party at the home of Brian Albert, a fellow Boston officer. They said she hit him with her SUV before driving away. An autopsy found O’Keefe had died of hypothermia and blunt force trauma.
The defense portrayed Read as the victim, saying O’Keefe was actually killed inside Albert’s home and then dragged outside. They argued that investigators focused on Read because she was a “convenient outsider” who saved them from having to consider law enforcement officers as suspects.
North Carolina residents would be forgiven for being confused about the weather trends lately, but boaters on Jordan Lake made the most of a sunny, warm day last Tuesday. It didn’t last long, with rain and colder temps back on the menu this week.
U.S. inflation worsened in January with grocery, gas prices rising Washington, D.C.
U.S. inflation accelerated last month as the cost of groceries, gas and used cars rose, a trend that will likely underscore the Federal Reserve’s resolve to delay any further interest rate cuts. The consumer price index increased 3% in January from a year ago, Wednesday’s report from the Labor Department showed, up from 2.9% the previous month. It has increased from a 31/2year low of 2.4% in September. The figures underscore the stickiness of inflation.
UnitedHealthcare fined
$3.4M by N.C. for claims violations
Raleigh Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey fined UnitedHealthcare
A portion of the Sturmer Park property will be sold for $3 million
By Ryan Henkel Twin City Herald
WINSTON-SALEM — The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners approved the sale of surplus county property at its Jan. 30 regular business meeting.
The board approved the sale of 3.5 acres of county-owned property located at 5580 Sturmer Park Cir. for a total sale price of $3 million to VNC -Land Company.
“I was overwhelmed by the price that has been offered, almost $1 million per acre, and I don’t think we’d ever get another offer that would exceed that,” said Vice Chair Gloria Whisen-
hunt. “So I’m very much in favor of selling this because the proceeds go toward debt, and anytime we can reduce debt, we’re doing the taxpayers a very good job.”
According to the letter of intent from the purchase, the buyer intends to utilize the property for a gas station and convenience store with a restaurant and car wash.
Despite the board having directed county staff to sell approximately 6 acres of the 9-acre property, there was, however, some push back by a few commissioners on the sale.
“The proceeds go toward debt and anytime we can reduce debt, we’re doing the taxpayers a very good job.”
Gloria Whisenhunt, vice chair
use as part of the county farm with historical markers,” Besse said. “It could be a candidate that we nominate for a historical marker, and that would again help preserve some of the history of the area.”
As an attempt to compromise, the board approved the posting for upset bids on the sale of 3.5 acres of property but also approved having a study done on the remaining 5.5 acres to see its feasibility as a park.
Commissioner Richard Linville also stated that the property was a part of the former county farm which spanned 500 acres back when it was in use and that this section was “all of what is left.”
“We could reference the history of the area and its former
“This is another example of a park-like area that could become a county park perhaps in association with the county animal shelter and other related facilities that are adjacent,” said Commissioner Dan Besse. “It would be ideal for uses such as walking dogs, to consider adoption of the animals, and that would be a very low cost park opportunity.”
In addition, the board also approved the sale of surplus county property located at 0 Kevin Drive for $19,100 and the removal of a structure located at 6011 Woodmont Court, which had been deemed unfit for human habitation.
The Forsyth County Board of Commissioners will next meet Feb. 13.
An Outer Banks wildlife crossing will save people; can it save the last wild red wolves too?
$3.4 million following a fouryear investigation into the company’s claims handling practices involving balance billing. The investigation found instances where UnitedHealthcare failed to follow its procedures to protect members from excess charges by out-of-network providers, particularly for emergency room and anesthesia services. While accepting the settlement, UnitedHealthcare denied violating any regulations. The company must provide a corrective action plan and submit to future compliance examinations. The fine will benefit North Carolina public schools. $2.00
A federal pilot program will build a 2.5-mile underpass for animals
By Allen G. Breed and Christina Larson The Associated Press
ALLIGATOR RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
— Hunters were once the greatest human threat to the country’s only unique wolf species. Today, it’s motorists. That fact was brought home last June when red wolf breeding male No. 2444 was struck and killed on U.S. 64 near Manns Harbor,. His death likely meant five pups he’d been providing for died, too.
“We were hoping the mother would return and resume care, but she never did,” Joe Madison, head of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s red wolf recovery program, said during a recent visit to the site.
For decades, conservationists have pushed for changes to U.S. 64, a busy two-lane highway to the popular Outer Banks that runs straight through the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge — one of just two places in the world where red wolves run free. They may finally be getting their wish.
In late December, the Federal Highway Administration
WILDLIFE, page A4
2.13.25 #335
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It was hoped to open in January, but then more roadway collapsed
The Associated Press
WAYNESVILLE — A sec-
tion of Interstate 40 in western North Carolina that collapsed during Hurricane Helene’s historic flooding will reopen to traffic by March 1, Gov. Josh Stein announced Monday while visiting the roadway’s shuttered portion and meeting with U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
The primary road connection between North Carolina and eastern Tennessee was severed in late September as flooding in the Pigeon River gorge washed away over 1 mile of I-40’s eastbound lanes. An effort to reopen a 20-mile stretch to the Tennessee line in early January got held up when more asphalt from eastbound lanes fell in mid-December. The department attributed the December slide to wet weather and freeze-thaw conditions.
Along a portion of the displaced four-lane road, Stein announced a rescheduled date for one lane going in each direction to reopen to traffic at a reduced speed, news outlets reported.
“I am pleased to announce that we will reopen two lanes of I-40 by March 1,” Stein said in a news release that highlighted the efforts of road workers and the state Department of Transportation. “Reopening these lanes will help reconnect North Carolina and Tennessee and allow us to wel-
come back visitors to bolster the economy.”
Contractors have worked to stabilize what’s left of the road by driving long steel rods into bedrock below the road, filling them with grout and spraying concrete on the cliff face to hold them in place.
Hurricane Helene and its resulting destruction damaged or impacted 5,000 miles of state-maintained roads and
damaged 7,000 private roads, bridges and culverts. The state is anticipated for now to receive about $3.2 billion from the Federal Highway Administration in emergency relief, according to a recent presentation for General Assembly members from state storm recovery officials. Stein visited the area to meet with Duffy, who also toured the damaged roadway with U.S. Sens. Thom Tillis and Ted Budd and Reps. Chuck Edwards and Tim Moore, all Republicans. In his release, Stein said he expressed to Duffy his appreciation for the U.S. Transportation Department’s efforts and “emphasized that there are billions of dollars of work still to do to get people safely back on the roads. ... It is clear to me that he intends to help.”
The ruling dates back to a 2009 death penalty trial in Johnston County
The Associated Press
SMITHFIELD — Racial bias tainted the decision to strike black people from the jury pool and to impose the death penalty in the 2009 trial of a black man in North Carolina, a judge ruled on Friday, part of what he called “glaring” patterns of bias in a prosecutorial district outside the capital.
Hasson Bacote was among a group of 15 death row inmates whose sentences were commuted to life without parole last year by Gov. Roy Cooper in one of his final acts in office. That means the ruling won’t make a legal difference for Bacote.
However it could help several other death row inmates in similar circumstances, said Gretchen M. Engel, executive director of the Center for Death Penalty Litigation.
In addition to the problems that prejudiced Bacote’s trial, Superior Court Judge Wayland Sermons Jr. found that racial bias tainted jury selection and sentencing in other Johnston County cases. Sermons found “glaring” bias in the fact that black defendants in capital cases were sentenced to death 100% of the time while similar white defendants received a death sentence only 45% of the time.
None of those black inmates in Johnston County have been executed, and North Carolina has not carried out an execution since 2006.
The judge said race was a
“significant factor” in the decisions to seek the death penalty in the first place and in jury selection, when looking at other cases tried by Assistant District Attorney Gregory Butler as well as other death penalty cases in the same prosecutorial district, which at the time included Harnett and Lee counties.
In Bacote’s case, Butler struck 75% of prospective black jurors and only 23% of prospective non-black jurors. In Butler’s other cases, risk of removal from the jury pool by peremptory challenges was more than 10 times higher for black candidates than for non-black candidates, Sermons wrote.
Butler testified that he never struck a juror for a “racial reason.” Sermons found that unconvincing. In Bacote’s case, for example, Butler explained
his removal of five black jurors by citing their opposition to the death penalty. However, “Butler did not strike white jurors who expressed similar reservations, in some cases with nearly identical language,” Sermons wrote.
The U.S. Supreme Court made clear in 1986 eliminating potential jurors merely because of their race violates the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment, which requires that people in similar circumstances be treated the same. However, jury selection bias claims are often difficult to prove.
The North Carolina Department of Justice, whose lawyers represented the state in Bacote’s case, have already “notified the court that we intend to appeal,” said Nazneen Ahmed, a spokesperson for Attorney Gen-
eral Jeff Jackson, who leads the department.
Bacote challenged his death sentence under North Carolina’s 2009 Racial Justice Act, which allowed prisoners to receive life without parole if they could show that racial bias was the reason for their death sentence. The law was repealed in 2013, but the state Supreme Court has ruled that it still applies to any prisoner who had a Racial Justice Act case pending at the time of the repeal. During a two-week hearing last fall, Sermons listened to evidence that included statistical studies of how the death penalty is implemented in North Carolina and Johnston County in particular. In his Friday ruling, the judge said the weight of the evidence did not prove that racial disparities prejudiced death penalty cases statewide.
liked to say. “They knew my weakness!”
The Blowing Rock native was named “Most Mischievous Boy” by his high school
By Hillel Italie
The Associated Press
NEW YORK — Tom Robbins, the novelist and prankster-philosopher who charmed and addled millions of readers with such screwball adventures as “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues” and “Jitterbug Perfume,” has died. He was 92. Robbins’ death was confirmed by his friend, the pub -
lishing executive Craig Popelars, who said the author died Sunday morning. Pronouncing himself blessed with “crazy wisdom,” Robbins published eight novels and the memoir “Tibetan Peach Pie” and looked fondly upon his world of deadpan absurdity, authorial commentary and zig zag story lines. No one had a wilder imagination, whether giving us a wayward heroine with elongated thumbs in “Cowgirls” or landing the corpse of Jesus in a makeshift zoo in “Another Roadside Attraction.” And no one told odder jokes on himself: Robbins once described his
light, scratchy drawl as sounding “as if it’s been strained through Davy Crockett’s underwear.”
He could fathom almost anything except growing up. People magazine would label Robbins “the perennial flower child and wild blooming Peter Pan of American letters,” who “dips history’s pigtails in weird ink and splatters his graffiti over the face of modern fiction.”
A native of Blowing Rock, North Carolina who moved to Virginia and was named “Most Mischievous Boy” by his high school, Robbins could match any narrative in his books with
one about his life. There was the time he had to see a proctologist and showed up wearing a duck mask. (The doctor and Robbins became friends). He liked to recall the food server in Texas who unbuttoned her top and revealed a faded autograph, his autograph. Or that odd moment in the 1990s when the FBI sought clues to the Unabomber’s identity by reading Robbins’ novel “Still Life with Woodpecker.” Robbins would allege that two federal agents, both attractive women, were sent to interview him.
“The FBI is not stupid!” he
He also managed to meet a few celebrities, thanks in part to the film adaptation of “Even Cowgirls,” which starred Uma Thurman and Keanu Reeves, and to appearances in such movies as “Breakfast of Champions” and “Mrs. Parker and the Vicious Circle.” He wrote of being Debra Winger’s date to the 1991 Academy Awards ceremony and nearly killing himself at an Oscars after-party when — hoping to impress Al Pacino — he swallowed a glass of cologne. He had happier memories of checking into a hotel and being recognized by a young, pretty clerk, who raved about his work and ignored the man standing next to him, Neil Young.
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
Nothing is more revealing than the waste that has been uncovered by Elon Musk and his DOGE team.
THE COUNTRY VOTED for government accountability and for swift action. Man, are we getting it. The Trump administration has wasted no time in delivering on the promises made.
Nothing is more revealing than the waste that has been uncovered by Elon Musk and his DOGE team. Most every American has known that our tax dollars are terribly wasted, and it is so refreshing to finally have it proven.
The first victim is the USAID, the United States Agency for International Development. USAID was created in 1961, and its mission was to carry out foreign social and economic development projects. It was to “provide assistance to strategically important countries and countries in conflict; lead U.S. efforts to alleviate poverty, disease, and humanitarian need; and assist U.S. commercial interests by supporting developing countries’ economic growth and building countries’ capacity to participate in world trade,” according to the Congressional Research Service.
Here is a short list of some of the things funded by USAID:
• $50 million to fund condoms in Gaza
• $70,000 for the production of a DEI musical in Ireland
• $47,000 on a transgender opera in Colombia
• $32,000 for a transgender comic in Peru
• $37 million to the World Health Organization
• $16 million in funding for institutional contractors in gender development offices
• $4 million in funding for the Center for Climate-Positive Development
• $600,000 to fund technical assistance for family planning in Latin America
• $1.5 million to “advance diversity equity and inclusion in Serbia’s workplaces and business communities”
• $2.5 million for electric vehicles in Vietnam
• $2 million for sex changes and “LGBT activism” in Guatemala
• $6 million to fund tourism in Egypt
• Hundreds of thousands of dollars for a nonprofit linked to designated terrorist organizations — even after an inspector general launched an investigation
• Millions to EcoHealth Alliance — which was involved in research at the Wuhan lab
• “Hundreds of thousands of meals that went to al Qaeda-affiliated fighters in Syria”
COLUMN | DAN SPULLER
• Funding to print “personalized” contraceptives birth control devices in developing countries
• Hundreds of millions of dollars to fund “irrigation canals, farming equipment, and even fertilizer used to support the unprecedented poppy cultivation and heroin production in Afghanistan,” benefiting the Taliban
This list could go on and on. I can’t wait to see what’s next. I understand the next victim on the chopping block will be the Department of Education. I have no doubt: We will find the same sort of waste in every department that is looked at.
Do any of these items listed appear to be in the best interest of America or a proper use of taxpayer money? I don’t think so.
Then we learned that USAID sent $59 million just last week to New York luxury hotels to house illegal immigrants. This was apparently after this investigation was underway. Perhaps a last-ditch effort to get money out the door before the brakes were applied. Musk has called for a clawback on the funds and that these monies be returned.
Washington spending has been out of control for generations. This administration is giving me hope that our country may be able to survive if these changes are allowed to go through.
We have accumulated massive debt that will fall upon our children and grandchildren. We have been borrowing trillions of dollars from countries that don’t even like us to send to other countries to fund these ridiculous projects.
Ronald Reagan once said that a program or agency created in Washington never goes away. Well, Ronnie, this administration is showing how it’s done. It must be just blown out by the roots, or it grows right back.
Democrats apparently learned nothing from this past election. They are screaming and yelling and think the sky is falling if USAID is held accountable. What are they thinking? It appears they think this spending is perfectly acceptable.
For too many years, those in Washington just kept cutting holes in the taxpayers’ pockets. They have now almost taken away the pants. The gravy train has been sopped up and now the bills are coming due. Once again, it is morning in America.
Joyce Krawiec represented Forsyth County and the 31st District in the North Carolina Senate from 2014 to 2024. She lives in Kernersville.
The order prioritizes regulatory clarity, ensures fair access to banking services and repeals restrictive Biden-era policies.
LESS THAN A MONTH into the second Trump administration, we are already seeing action on bold promises to bring clarity, regulatory reform and innovation to the crypto space — cutting burdensome regulations, reversing controversial Biden-era rulemakings and embracing digital assets at the national level. These commitments have resonated with a rapidly growing community eager for change.
On Feb. 4, Congress established a bicameral working group to develop a framework for stablecoin legislation and digital asset market structure.
Even before the inauguration, President Donald Trump made a decisive move by appointing Bo Hines as executive director of the Presidential Council of Advisers for Digital Assets, reinforcing his administration’s intent to position the United States as the global leader in digital financial innovation.
I’ve had the opportunity to engage with Hines extensively, and many North Carolinians know his name — not just from his congressional campaigns but also from his days as an NC State wide receiver. However, his greatest impact may come in the next six months, where Hines has been tasked to shepherd an emerging industry in dire need of clarity. His appointment, made official by Trump’s executive order “Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology” on Jan. 23, marks a sweeping shift in U.S. digital asset policy. The order prioritizes regulatory clarity, ensures fair access to banking services, supports lawful, dollar-backed stablecoins and repeals restrictive Biden-era policies.
While many may recall Hines’ time on the football field, it’s a fitting coincidence that he played in the Bitcoin St. Petersburg Bowl in 2014, a nod to Bitcoin’s early influence.
Now, 11 years later, Hines will work closely with White House AI and Crypto Czar and Silicon Valley tycoon David Sacks to develop a federal regulatory framework proposal for digital assets and deliver
recommendations to Congress. And these efforts must move swiftly. Per the executive order, the team will review existing regulations, recommend necessary modifications within 60 days and deliver a comprehensive policy report to the president within 180 days. A key initiative includes evaluating the creation of a strategic national digital assets stockpile — a move to strengthen the nation’s leadership in crypto.
Notably, Trump’s executive order also prohibits the federal government from issuing or promoting Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), ensuring that financial sovereignty and economic liberty remain at the forefront. North Carolina took a leading role in this effort last year, passing the widely bipartisan H.B. 690, overriding Gov. Roy Cooper’s stunning veto and becoming a national model for resisting government-controlled digital currencies.
Hines’ appointment further underscores North Carolina’s dominance in digital asset policy, following the appointment of Paul Atkins as SEC chair, a fellow North Carolinian, and leaders like Patrick McHenry, Ted Budd, Tim Moore and Addison McDowell, who have emerged as national champions for crypto innovation in recent years.
With regulators like Hines and Atkins at the helm, the Trump administration is proving that its commitment to regulatory reform isn’t just rhetoric. This administration will deliver on its promises — not through excessive enforcement, but through clear rules, financial sovereignty and pro-innovation policies that ensure the United States leads in blockchain technology for generations to come. North Carolina has long been at the forefront of digital asset policy, and with Hines helping to shape federal regulation, the state’s leadership in fostering blockchain innovation will only grow stronger.
Dan Spuller is head of industry affairs for the Washington, D.C.-based Blockchain Association.
WILDLIFE from page A1
awarded the first grants under a new $125 million Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program. Unless the grants are somehow undone by President Donald Trump, part of the money will help state agencies and nonprofit groups rebuild a 2.5-mile section of the highway with fencing and a series of culverts, or small underpasses, to allow red wolves — as well as black bears, white-tailed deer and other animals — to pass safely underneath traffic.
“When you build wildlife bridges or underpasses, you reduce human-wildlife conflict,” said Duke University ecologist Stuart Pimm, who studies wildlife migrations but is not directly involved in the project.
“There is increasing awareness that reducing traffic collisions is smart for wildlife, smart for people too.”
Other agency grants will support new bridges and underpasses for mule deer in Idaho, pronghorn antelope in New Mexico, and cougars and bears in Oregon, among other projects.
But what’s notable about the U.S. 64 project is that the goal is twofold: reducing dangerous collisions and roadkill — and saving a critically endangered species. There are thought to be fewer than 20 red wolves left in the wild; besides Alligator River, the other remaining habitat is in the nearby Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.
Madison calculates that No. 2444 represented 7% of the known wild red wolf population. “So, every time you get a mortality, that’s a significant hit,” he said.
Reducing roadkill — and saving a species?
Wildlife crossings have proliferated across the U.S. in the past 20 years with broad nonpartisan support. Most often, the objective is safety. One congressional report estimated that dangerous highway collisions with large animals kill hundreds of people and cost more than $8 billion each year.
Researchers have learned a lot about what works for different species.
“Pronghorn don’t want to go through tunnels or close spaces, so they avoid underpasses and need bridges,” said Arthur Middleton, an ecologist who studies animal migration at the University of California, Berkeley. “Whereas deer will go under or over.”
Gray wolves and coyotes — and, presumably, red wolves — will also use underpasses, or culverts, of 6 or 8 feet in diameter. Fencing is critical to funnel the animals to the structures.
Along U.S. 30 in Wyoming, seven small underpasses and fencing cut mule deer collisions by 81%. In Canada, a series of overpasses and underpasses along the Trans-Canada Highway in Banff National Park reduced collisions with hooved animals by 94%.
But whether wildlife crossings can help prevent extinctions is a harder question to answer.
“Conservation was always a part of the story, but now we’re seeing crossings increasingly pop up that have conservation as a primary rationale,” said Ben Goldfarb, author of the book “Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of Our Planet.”
Some of the most ambitious crossings for conservation have just been built — and it will take time to assess the results.
Outside Los Angeles, a wildlife crossing over 10 lanes of U.S. 101 is expected to open in 2026. The primary aim is to help connect the habitat of mountain lions, which need to cross the freeway to find suitable mates. Inbreeding among mountain lions in the LA region has already led to genetic mutations and decreased fertility.
In Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro state, construction of a wildlife bridge spanning BR 101 was finished in 2020, then native seedlings were planted in a soil bed. Once those trees mature, researchers will study if
the target species — an endangered monkey called a golden lion tamarin — uses the bridge regularly. Experts say the trees are necessary for creatures like monkeys or sloths to move across the bridge. Species that scamper on the ground, including foxes, anteaters and armadillos, are already crossing.
Hope at the end of the tunnel underpass for red wolves?
While it’s not certain that a wildlife crossing can save the last red wolves, scientists say that doing nothing will almost certainly hasten their demise.
Canis rufus, often called “America’s wolf,” once roamed from central Texas to southern Iowa and as far east as Long Island, New York. After being declared extinct in the wild, red wolves were reintroduced in North Carolina in 1987.
For about 20 years, the population grew steadily to reach around 120 animals. Then their numbers crashed — with vehicle collisions a primary culprit. One study found that vehicle strikes had killed about 5% of the red wolf population each
year between their reintroduction and 2022.
Marcel P. Huijser, a study co-author and a research ecologist at Montana State University’s Western Transportation Institute, warned that the cost of doing nothing, “including losing a wild species, can be far higher than the cost of implementing effective mitigation.”
In North Carolina, Fish and Wildlife biologists have tried other measures to prevent crashes — like flashing road signs and reflective collars — without much success.
Following No. 2444’s death, conservation groups like the Wildlands Network and the Center for Biological Diversity pushed for another solution.
In September, the North Carolina Department of Transportation submitted a grant application for the Red Wolf Essential Survival Crossings Under Evacuation Route — or RESCUER — project.
Plans for the U.S. 64 wildlife crossing call for a series of underpass structures — several of them big enough for wolves and other large mammals to pass through — and the accompanying fencing. The exact num-
ber and size of the underpasses has yet to be determined, said Travis W. Wilson, eastern habitat conservation coordinator for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
The estimated total cost for the project is about $31.5 million, including $4 million in private donations raised by conservation groups and an anonymous donor’s matching grant.
“This is one of the most important wildlife connectivity projects in the country,” said Beth Pratt, founder of the nonprofit The Wildlife Crossing Fund, which raised funds for the project. “Critically endangered red wolves will disappear if we do nothing.”
The Associated Press’s Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. AP’s climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Thieves linked to South American gangs are behind the sophisticated heists
By John Seewer and Dave Collins The Associated Press
FOR MONTHS, daring bands of thieves linked to South American gangs have been making off with piles of jewelry and cash from the homes of the biggest superstars in sports, targeting the likes of the NFL’s Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce.
Sophisticated pillagers have deployed drones and signal jamming devices, sometimes posing as delivery drivers or maintenance workers, to gain access to gated neighborhoods and thwart home security systems, according to warnings issued by the NFL and NBA.
But in recent weeks, investigators across the U.S. have made a handful of arrests connected to at least one of the high-profile heists and discovered stolen sports memorabilia, jewelry and art stuffed into storage units in New Jersey.
A group of Chilean men stopped in January while driving in Ohio were charged with stealing nearly $300,000 worth of designer luggage, watches and jewelry from Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow’s house. Photos showed one suspect wearing a sparkly necklace with Burrow’s jersey number that he had worn during interviews.
“These individuals seem to be the alleged tip of the iceberg,” said Kenneth Parker, the U.S. Attorney in southern Ohio, who believes the men
Ricky Rudd poses for a photo after learning he was selected for the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2025.
All-Star Luka Doncic’s home in Dallas in December. Pittsburgh Penguins star Evgeni Malkin reported a home invasion in January that happened while his team was playing at home.
Law enforcement officials warned sports leagues last fall that thieves had been striking on game days when they knew the players would not be home, often smashing through rear windows.
Some of the groups scoped out their targets by posing as home delivery drivers or joggers in secluded neighborhoods.
are working with South American theft rings that for years have been ransacking opulent homes from coast to coast.
Some luxury watches and jewelry stolen from homes across the country — not just those belonging to athletes — ended up being sold at a pawnshop in Manhattan’s Diamond District and stashed away in nearby storage units.
Investigators say international crime rings have looted high- end houses for years, but now they’re going after some of the biggest names in the NFL, NBA and NHL.
Thieves broke into the homes of Kansas City Chiefs teammates Mahomes and Kelce within days of each other in October around the time they played New Orleans and Kelce’s superstar girlfriend Taylor Swift watched the game from the stands.
Jewelry valued at about $30,000 was stolen from NBA
Burrow’s home in Ohio, which sits on a gated street tucked along a wooded area, was broken into while he was in Dallas for a “Monday Night Football” game in December. The men charged in the invasion were found weeks later traveling with a Husky glass-breaking tool that one of them bought at Home Depot.
Players have been advised to not only beef up their home security but also avoid posting their whereabouts on social media.
The theft rings are focused on cash and items that can be resold on the black market, such as jewelry, watches and luxury bags, according to an NBA warning based on information from the FBI.
The two men indicted this week in New York City were accused of buying stolen watches, jewelry and other expensive items from a variety of burglary crews and reselling them at their pawnshop in Manhattan since 2020.
Court documents said the pair were tied to five separate burglary crews.
Katherine Perdue is a senior on the West Forsyth swimming team.
Perdue advanced to the NCHSAA 4A state swim championships in the 100 butterfly and 100 backstroke events, setting a school record in the butterfly on the way by turning in a time of 56.74. She was one-hundredth of a second off of that record time in the preliminaries, which qualified her for the final, where she placed 12th. She also turned in an 11th-place finish in the backstroke and was part of the 400 free relay team that placed 21st.
“Ironman” and “Cousin Carl” headline the class of 2025
By Jenna Fryer The Associated Press
CHARLOTTE — One of the toughest drivers in NASCAR history joined one the most enigmatic drivers of the modern era as the newest inductees into the Hall of Fame in a star-studded ceremony. Ricky Rudd, known as the “Ironman” for his 788 consecutive starts over a 32-year career, was feted for his grit. Following a crash the week before the Daytona 500, Rudd’s eyes were so swollen he used duct tape to keep them open so he
could race. In reality, it was injuries to his ribs that bothered him most.
“He had a job to do, and nothing was going to stop him,” said seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and fellow Hall of Famer Richard Petty. Rudd also didn’t stand down to anyone, and his ability to defend himself prevented many confrontations that might have happened during NASCAR’s rougher days.
“He’s a guy who demands respect and deserves to be in the Hall of Fame,” said fellow Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace. Also inducted was Carl Edwards, a popular driver who abruptly quit the sport after his second controversial loss of a Cup Series title.
Edwards, always extremely popular, was tough to get a true read on during his career as many of his fellow competitors found him to be fake. Hall of Famer Tony Stewart, who beat Edwards on a tiebreaker for the 2011 championship, used to call Edwards “Eddie Haskell” for his penchant of being polite and friendly in front of cameras and fans, but not so nice to his fellow competitors. He lamented in his speech “the facade of reputation” and admitted he was “kind of being a douchebag,” in not being friends with his fellow competitors. Edwards said, “If I had been a little more mature, a little bit less self-centered, had a little more perspective ... we could have been more
than enemies on the racetrack.”
When Edwards lost a second title in 2016 and abruptly quit the sport — and literally vanished from the NASCAR community — he thought he’d never again be part of it.
“I left eight years ago, and I thought I was truly turning my back on this whole sport. I thought I was making a choice between this sport and my family,” Edwards said. “And you know, every prize has its price, and for me, the prize of my family was worth that price. What you’ve done here, though, is you’ve let me win both ways.”
“He had a real focus in his professional career, he is a real credit to our sport and he was a superstar,” said Hall of Fame
team owner Joe Gibbs, who Edwards drove for when he quit after the 2016 season finale. Edwards had been leading late when a questionable caution was thrown and Edwards was wrecked on the restart.
“I remember him sitting down and saying ‘Hey, Joe, I think it’s time for me to step away from racing,’” recalled Gibbs. “And I go, ‘What? Here’s a guy who is in his prime, and for him to say that, I think it was one of the more shocking things that happened to me in sports.”
Also inducted was the late Ralph Moody, who was elected on the pioneer ballot. Dr. Dean Sicking, who is credited with creating the life-saving SAFER barrier following Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s 2001 death, was the Landmark Award winner for contribution to the sport, and retired motorsports writer Mike Harris of The Associated Press was honored as recipient of the 2025 Squier-Hall Award for NASCAR Media Excellence.
NFL
Longtime NFL player, coach
Jauron dies at 74
Chicago Longtime NFL player and coach Dick Jauron, who led the Chicago Bears to the playoffs and was voted AP coach of the year in 2001, died at 74. The Bears confirmed his death, which came one day before the Super Bowl. Jauron briefly served as an Eagles assistant to current Chiefs coach Andy Reid. Jauron was a twosport standout at Yale before spending eight years as a defensive back in the NFL.
Along with taking the Bears to the playoffs, he spent four seasons as the coach of the Bills. He retired from coaching in 2012.
PGA
Woods to play at Torrey Pines, first PGA event since July
San Diego Tiger Woods committed to playing the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines, returning to one of his favorite venues for his first PGA Tour start since the British Open last July. Woods will be playing 18 holes in competition for the first time since he had a microdiscectomy in September to alleviate pain down his legs, his sixth surgery on his lower back. He will also be playing just over a week after the loss of his mother, Kultida Woods, who died last Tuesday at age 80.
MLB Ohtani’s ex-interpreter sentenced to nearly 5 years in sports betting case
Santa Ana, Calif. The former interpreter for Japanese baseball star Shohei Ohtani has been sentenced to four years and nine months in prison. Ippei Mizuhara pleaded guilty last year to bank and tax fraud. He was accused of stealing nearly $17 million from the Los Angeles Dodgers player’s bank account to cover his gambling bets and debts.
Prosecutors said Mizuhara never bet on baseball, and Ohtani was an unknowing victim of the scheme. The case stemmed from a broader probe of illegal sports bookmaking organizations in Southern California.
Sanders brings in Hall of Famer Faulk to coach running backs at Colorado
Denver Deion Sanders added another Pro Football Hall of Famer to his staff at Colorado by bringing in Marshall Faulk to oversee the running backs. Faulk becomes the third member of the Buffaloes’ coaching ranks to boast a gold jacket, joining Warren Sapp and, of course, Sanders. Sapp is the senior quality control analyst for the defense. Faulk will try to revamp a Colorado running game that’s been one of the worst in the nation the last two seasons. Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes are coming off a 9-4 season in which they earned a spot in the Alamo Bowl.
Los Angeles and the New York Mets were the big offseason spenders
By Ronald Blum The Associated Press
SPRING TRAINING workouts started Sunday with the Dodgers trying to become the first repeat champion since the New York Yankees won three in a row from 1998 to 2000.
Coming off their second title in five seasons, the Dodgers added Roki Sasaki, the prized 23-year-old right-hander from Japan, and left-hander Blake Snell to a pitching staff expecting two-way star Shohei Ohtani to return to the mound in April or May after recovering from elbow surgery.
“Kudos to them. They’re doing everything right,” said Toronto pitcher Max Scherzer, who pitched for the Dodgers briefly in 2021. “They have a well-oiled machine.”
Los Angeles opens the season in Tokyo against the Chicago Cubs with a two-game series starting March 18. The
Cubs are the first team to start practice, on Sunday in Mesa, Arizona, and all clubs will be on the field by Thursday.
Hooray for Hollywood
Los Angeles committed $452 million to eight players during the offseason. The Dodgers kept utilityman Tommy Edman with a $74 million, five-year contract, outfielder Teoscar Hernández with a $66 million, three-year deal and right-hander Blake Treinen for $22 million over two years.
In addition to Sasaki ($6.5 million signing bonus) and Snell ($182 million for five years), the Dodgers added reliever Tanner Scott ($72 million for four years), outfielder Michael Conforto` ($17 million for one season) and second baseman Hyeseong Kim ($12.5 million for three years).
Tyler Glasnow is projected for the rotation after finishing last season on the injured list. Three-time Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw is expected to re-sign and return after he recovers
from knee and toe operations.
“The Dodgers are a really well-run, successful organization,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said. “Everything that they do and have done is consistent with our rules. ... I recognize, however, and my emails certainly reflect that there are fans in other markets who are concerned about their team’s ability to compete. And we always have to be concerned when our fans are concerned about something. But pinning it on the Dodgers, I’m not in that camp.”
Mets also paying top dollar
In search of the team’s first World Series title since 1986, New York Mets owner Steve Cohen gave a record $765 million, 15-year contract to outfielder Juan Soto, luring him from the rival Yankees, part of a $925 million splurge on eight free agents.
“If you want something that’s amazing, it’s going to be uncomfortable. It’s never going to be comfortable,” Cohen said. “And so I always stretch a little
bit because I know that’s what it takes to get it done.”
Following an NL Championship Series loss to the Dodgers, the Mets also added righthanders Frankie Montas, Clay Holmes and Griffin Canning along with left-hander A.J. Minter, and re-signed first baseman Peter Alonso, lefthander Sean Manaea, righthander Ryne Stanek and outfielder Jesse Winker. They acquired outfielder Jose Siri in a trade with Tampa Bay. Searching for ruby slippers
Tampa Bay and the Athletics will be preparing for vagabond seasons in minor league ballparks. After 57 years in Oakland, the A’s will play at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento for at least three seasons before moving to a planned ballpark in Las Vegas. The Rays will play at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, the spring training home of the Yankees, for 2025 because of damage at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg caused by Hurricane Milton.
NCAA committee to consider coaches’ proposal to combat ‘unethical behavior’ of fake injuries
Players would have to sit out longer if the rule is passed
By Eric Olson The Associated Press
A PROPOSED rule change intended to discourage players from faking injuries that prompt unwarranted timeouts will be considered when the NCAA Football Rules Committee meets this month.
Feigning injuries, sometimes at the coach’s instruction, has become a tactic defenses use to slow down tempo offenses or as a way for an offense to avoid a delay of game penalty or get an extra timeout.
The American Football Coaches Association submitted a proposal that would require a player who goes down on the field and receives medical attention to sit out the rest of that possession. Currently, the player must go out for one play before reentering.
“The American Football Coaches Association is acutely concerned about this,” AFCA executive director Craig Bohl said. “It goes against the grain of the betterment of our game and the ethics. We crafted this, we floated this, and it’s been received well. I’m sure there’ll be some pushback. Our point is give us something better if you don’t like it.”
BUTCH DILL / AP PHOTO
NCAA supervisor of officials Steve Shaw speaks during the Southeastern Conference Media Days in 2019, when he was the conference’s officiating supervisor.
The proposal has carveouts. A coach can use a charged timeout to get the player back on the field during the current possession. A player injured by a hit that results in a penalty would be exempt. Also, the one player on offense and one on defense with a green dot on his helmet, indicating he’s allowed to receive radio communication from the sideline, can reenter after one play.
Injuries perceived to be feigned became such a hot topic in the Southeastern Conference last season that commissioner Greg Sankey put out a November memo admonishing teams.
“As plainly as it can be stated: Stop any and all activity related to faking injuries to
create time-outs,” he wrote. The NCAA Football Rules Committee will meet the last week of February in Indianapolis, and the issue will be front and center. If the AFCA’s proposal passes and is approved in the spring by the Playing Rules Oversight Panel, it would go into effect next season.
NCAA supervisor of officials Steve Shaw said Division I conference officiating coordinators gave their support during their annual meeting in Irving, Texas, last week. Shaw showed the coordinators a video montage of players feigning injuries, sometimes laughably so. Shaw said anyone who doesn’t think fake injuries are a problem would change their
opinion after watching the video.
“Eventually, you’re like, ‘This is awful. This is pitiful,’ “said Shaw, who doesn’t have plans to make the video public.
One of the clips shows a player with what appears to be a cramp.
“The trainer walks him out, and the guy has this huge grin on his face,” Shaw said. “The trainer makes him lay down and he does the typical stretching his leg out. The trainer is grinning at him, and (the player) pops right back up and he’s up in the coaches’ grouping to go back into the game.”
Bohl said the biggest offenders are rotational players, like defensive linemen and running backs.
“They look over to the sideline and the coach is pointing down, and they fall down and another guy goes in,” Bohl said. “By having that player have to sit out a whole possession, a coach, the ones skirting the rules are going to look and say, ‘Do I really want to disadvantage my team by losing a rotational player?’”
Bohl said the AFCA proposal might not be perfect, but it should decrease the number of egregious instances of players faking injuries.
“The AFCA cannot stand by and look at the unethical behavior of what we’re doing in this aspect of our game,” he said.
‘Yellowjackets’ season three features Oscar winner Hilary Swank
The Associated Press
RENÉE ZELLWEGER returning to one of her most indelible roles in “Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy” and Questlove offering the definitive documentary on funk crossover star Sly Stone are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you.
Also, among the streaming offerings worth your time: husband-and-wife duo The War and Treaty return with the album “Plus One,” ice skaters of color and their coaches are the focus of a new docuseries called “Harlem Ice” and the first two episodes drop of season three of Showtime’s horror series “Yellowjackets.”
MOVIES TO STREAM
Zellweger returns to one of her most indelible roles in “Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy.” If you’ve lost track, the film, streaming Thursday on Peacock, is the fourth “Bridget Jones” movie and first since 2016’s “Bridget Jones’ Baby.” In “Mad About a Boy,” based on Helen Fielding’s 2013 novel, Jones, a widow now in her 50s, is drawn toward two romantic possibilities: a teacher played by Chiwetel Ejiofor and a 29-year-old played by Leo Woodall.
Questlove, the Roots drummer and ubiquitous performer, has turned into a must-watch documentarian. In “Sly Lives! (aka the Burden of Black Genius),” Questlove follows his Oscar-winning “Summer of Soul” and the recent “Ladies & Gentlemen... 50 Years of SNL Music” with the definitive documentary on Sly Stone, the funk crossover bandleader of Sly and the Family Stone. The film, stuffed with archival footage and contemporary interviews, and spanning the meteoric rise and tragic fall of Stone, streams Thursday on Hulu.
Scott Derrickson’s “The Gorge” stars Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy as a pair of operatives assigned to guard towers on opposing sides of a gorge, within which a mysterious evil lurks. The film, which debuts Friday, Feb. 14 on Apple TV+, co-stars Sigourney Weaver.
MUSIC TO STREAM
It wasn’t that long ago that Alessia Cara’s full-hearted pop was unavoidable; it earned her the coveted best new artist Grammy in 2018 and “Scars to Your Beautiful” endures as
a 2010s classic. But much has changed in that time, and the Canadian singer-songwriter has lived a lot of life since. Her forthcoming fourth studio album, “Love & Hyperbole,” out on Valentine’s Day, is an expression of that growth. “Dead Man” traces the end of a relationship; “(Isn’t It) Obvious” features a guitar solo from John Mayer. Giants of country music with the pipes to back it up, husband-and-wife duo The War and Treaty return with a new album, “Plus One.” Like the bulk of their discography, this is a collection meant to inspire love and connection in its listeners (of course amplified by the Valentine’s Day release date) with soulful, twang-y songs about family and faith. In 1992, Eric Clapton recorded an hour-long performance at Bray Studios in Windsor, England, titled “Eric Clapton Unplugged,” one of the best-selling live albums of all time. (And of course it is — no one is immune to the charms of an acoustic “Tears in Heaven.”) Paramount+ subscribers can now experience the magic once more — now in the form of an extend-
ed, remixed and remastered 90-minute edition titled “Eric Clapton Unplugged… Over 30 Years Later.” It features new interview footage captured before the performance.
SHOWS TO STREAM
“Muslim Matchmaker” is a new Hulu docuseries that follows two matchmakers dedicated to helping Muslim American singles find love while also keeping in line with their religious values. Viewers will see these professional cupids navigate their clients’ expectations in a world of dating apps and ghosting. The series is created by the same person who brought “Indian Matchmaking” to Netflix. It may still be cold outside, but it’s summertime on Bravo with season 9 of “Summer House.” The reality series stars a group of Manhattanites who share a house on the weekends in the Hamptons. Whereas last season followed the tumultuous engagement of cast members Lindsay Hubbard and Carl Radke, the new episodes were filmed about a year later — af-
ter their breakup. The two may have moved on, but it doesn’t take a Magic 8 Ball to assume they’ll still have issues. We’ll also see Hubbard pregnant with her first child. “Summer House” is streaming on Bravo and streams on Peacock.
Ice skaters of color and their coaches are the focus of a new docuseries called “Harlem Ice.” Viewers will follow the young skaters experience triumphs and challenges as they train and compete in a sport that is traditionally white. “Good Morning America” host Robin Roberts is an executive producer alongside Ron Howard and Brian Grazer. All five episodes are on Disney+. The first two episodes of season three of Showtime’s horror series “Yellowjackets” drop Friday on Paramount+. When a plane carrying a girls’ high school soccer team crashes in the middle of nowhere, its survivors are in a fight to survive. It’s inspired by William Golding’s 1954 classic, “Lord of the Flies.” “Yellowjackets” unfolds in two timelines: one at the time of the crash and one two decades later when the girls are adult women. Its stars in-
clude Melanie Lynskey, Christina Ricci and Lauren Ambrose. Oscar winner Hilary Swank joins season three in a recurring role.
VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY
The world today seems utterly chaotic, so what better time to experiment with starting the whole thing over from scratch? That’s always been the appeal of Firaxis Games’ long-running Civilization series, and Sid Meier’s Civilization VII adds some intriguing new twists to the formula. First, each session is divided into three eras — Antiquity, Exploration and Modern — and each era ends with an empire-shattering crisis. You can bounce around between different cultures — say, starting in ancient China and winding up in the U.S.A. And you have a fresh batch of leaders, from Confucius to Machiavelli to Harriet Tubman, to lean on for advice and inspiration. As usual, you get to decide whether to be peaceful and diplomatic or run around blowing your neighbors to smithereens. The world is yours on PlayStation 5/4, Xbox X/S/One, Switch or PC.
A masked man gave the author life-threatening injuries in 2022
By Carolyn Thompson and Hillel Italie
The Associated Press
MAYVILLE, N.Y. — Salman
Rushdie described in graphic detail Tuesday the frenzied moments in 2022 when a masked man rushed at him on a stage in western New York and repeatedly slashed him with a knife, leaving him with life-threatening injuries.
The 77-year-old author addressed jurors on the second day of testimony at the trial of Hadi Matar, 27, who has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and assault in the attack. It was the first time since the attack that Rushdie found himself in the same room with the man accused of trying the kill him.
“I only saw him at the last minute,” Rushdie said. “I was aware of someone wearing black clothes, or dark clothes and a black face mask. I was very struck by his eyes, which were dark and seemed very ferocious.”
His wife, Rachel Eliza Griffiths, cried from her seat in the courtroom’s second row.
Rushdie was blinded in one eye in the attack and spent months recovering, a process he detailed in a memoir released last year. A speaker who was to appear with Rushdie also was wounded.
Jurors heard opening statements Monday, followed by testimony from staffers at the Chautauqua Institution, the nonprofit art and education center where the attack happened about 75 miles south of Buffalo.
Matar has been in custody since he was subdued by spectators after the attack.
The trial is expected to last up to two weeks.
which some Muslims consider blasphemous.
Schmidt has said discussing Matar’s motive will be unnecessary in the state trial, given the attack was seen by a live audience that was expecting to hear Rushdie present a lecture on keeping writers safe.
“This is not a case of mistaken identity,” Schmidt said during opening statements Monday. “Mr. Matar is the person who attacked Mr. Rushdie without provocation.”
A public defender representing Matar told jurors that the case is not as straightforward as prosecutors have made it out to be.
“The elements of the crime are more than ‘something really bad happened’ — they’re more defined,” Lynn Schaffer said.
“But I saw a large quantity of blood pouring onto my clothes,” he said. “He was hitting me repeatedly. Hitting and slashing.”
Rushdie said he was struck more times in his chest and torso and stabbed in his chest as he struggled to get away.
Rushdie said he first thought his knife-wielding attacker was striking him with a fist.
While lying on the stage, he recalled “a sense of great pain and shock, and aware of the fact that there was an enormous quantity of blood that I was lying in.”
“It occurred to me that I was dying. That was my predominant thought,” he said.
“I was very badly injured. I couldn’t stand up any more. I fell down,” he said.
Jurors are unlikely to hear about a fatwa issued by the late Iranian leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini calling for Rushdie’s death, according to District Attorney Jason Schmidt.
Rushdie, the author of “Midnight’s Children” and “Victory City,” spent years in hiding after Khomeini announced the fatwa in 1989 following publication of the novel “The Satanic Verses,”
The case has been followed closely by true crime fans
By Michael Casey
The Associated Press
BOSTON — Massachusetts’ top court ruled Tuesday that Karen Read can be retried on all the same charges in the death of her Boston police officer boyfriend, the latest twist in the long-running case that transfixed true crime fans nationwide.
Prosecutors have sought to retry Read this year on charges of second-degree murder, manslaughter and leaving the scene of a crime. They accused her of ramming into John O’Keefe with her SUV and leaving him to die in a snowstorm in January 2022. Read’s attorneys argue she was framed to protect other law enforcement officers involved in O’Keefe’s death.
A judge declared a mistrial in June after finding jurors couldn’t reach an agreement, without polling the jurors to confirm their conclusions.
Read’s attorney Martin Weinberg argued that five jurors later said they were deadlocked only
on the manslaughter count, and had unanimously agreed in the jury room that she wasn’t guilty on the charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. But they hadn’t told the judge.
The ruling from the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court clears the way for a new trial on all three charges.
“The jury clearly stated during deliberations that they had not reached a unanimous verdict on any of the charges and could not do so. Only after being discharged did some individual jurors communicate a different supposed outcome, contradicting their prior notes,” the judges wrote. “Such posttrial disclosures cannot retroactively alter the trial’s outcome —either to acquit or to convict.”
The judges also found “no abuse of discretion” in Judge Beverly Cannone’s decision to declare a mistrial.
“After extensive, multiday deliberations, the jury submitted several increasingly emphatic notes about their inability to reach a unanimous verdict,” they wrote, adding that the record before the judge “suggested complete deadlock.”
Read’s lawyer said they’re
considering their legal options.
“While we have great respect for the Commonwealth’s highest court, Double Jeopardy is a federal constitutional right,” Weinberg said in a statement.
“We are strongly considering whether to seek federal habeas relief from what we continue to contend are violations of Ms. Read’s federally guaranteed constitutional rights.”
Weinberg had urged the court to allow an a evidentiary
Karen Read and her defense team and the prosecution filed motions in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham, Massachusetts, in November.
“Something bad did happen, something very bad did happen, but the district attorney has to prove much more than that.”
In a separate indictment, federal authorities allege Matar was driven to act by a terrorist organization’s 2006 endorsement of the fatwa. A later trial on federal terrorism charges will be scheduled in U.S. District Court in Buffalo.
The judges questioned Weinberg over the the merits for holding an inquiry. Associate Justice Frank Gaziano noted that such inquiries are usually reserved for “extraneous information” such as “racisms in the jury room.” Chief Justice Kimberly Budd wondered about the limits of allowing an inquiry, which she suggested could open the door for other defendants to argue a juror came to them to say “that’s not really what happened.”
Cannone ruled in August that Read could be retried on all three charges.
“Where there was no verdict announced in open court here, retrial of the defendant does not violate the principle of double jeopardy,” Cannone said.
hearing where jurors could be asked whether they had reached final not guilty verdicts on any of the charges.
Prosecutors maintained there’s no basis for dismissing the charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. They argued that her lawyers should have sensed a mistrial was “inevitable or unavoidable” and that they had every opportunity to be heard in the trial courtroom.
Prosecutors said Read, a former adjunct professor at Bentley College, and O’Keefe, a 16 -year member of the Boston police, had been drinking heavily before she dropped him off at a party at the home of Brian Albert, a fellow Boston officer. They said she hit him with her SUV before driving away. An autopsy found O’Keefe had died of hypothermia and blunt force trauma.
The defense portrayed Read as the victim, saying O’Keefe was actually killed inside Albert’s home and then dragged outside. They argued that investigators focused on Read because she was a “convenient outsider” who saved them from having to consider law enforcement officers as suspects.
North Carolina residents would be forgiven for being confused about the weather trends lately, but boaters on Jordan Lake made the most of a sunny, warm day last Tuesday. It didn’t last long, with rain and colder temps back on the menu this week.
U.S. inflation worsened in January with grocery, gas prices rising
Washington, D.C.
U.S. inflation accelerated last month as the cost of groceries, gas and used cars rose, a trend that will likely underscore the Federal Reserve’s resolve to delay any further interest rate cuts. The consumer price index increased 3% in January from a year ago, Wednesday’s report from the Labor Department showed, up from 2.9% the previous month. It has increased from a 31/2-year low of 2.4% in September. The figures underscore the stickiness of inflation.
UnitedHealthcare fined
$3.4M by N.C. for claims violations
Raleigh Insurance Commissioner
Mike Causey fined UnitedHealthcare
$3.4 million following a fouryear investigation into the company’s claims handling practices involving balance billing. The investigation found instances where UnitedHealthcare failed to follow its procedures to protect members from excess charges by out-of-network providers, particularly for emergency room and anesthesia services. While accepting the settlement, UnitedHealthcare denied violating any regulations. The company must provide a corrective action plan and submit to future compliance examinations. The fine will benefit North Carolina public schools.
$2.00
A new pedestrian bridge will be constructed
By Ryan Henkel Randolph Record
ASHEBORO — Randolph County is aiming to attract a new manufacturing business with the approval of a new economic incentive package.
At its Feb. 3 meeting, the Randolph County Board of Commissioners approved an approximately $92,000 economic development incentive package for a concrete manufacturing company to establish a facility in the county.
While the name of the company wasn’t revealed, the project is titled Blue Crab.
“Their goal is to construct a precast concrete manufacturing facility to serve the Southeast region as the company expands their customer base,” said Crystal Gettys, Randolph County EDC’s business recruitment director. “It’s
a 100-year-old company that is family owned and actually the president is the fifth generation of the family.”
If the company were to relocate to Randolph County, it would have a capital investment of approximately $9 million and would create 60 new jobs across five years with an average wage above $63,000, which exceeds average county wage of $49,335.
The incentive package will be paid out during a five-year period based on whether the company has met the criteria of job commitment and investments.
Gettys said the project also qualifies for potentially more than $350,000 in state grants and any local matches from those are included in the $92,000 incentive package.
The board also approved a $165,000 contract with Signage Industries for the construction of the agricultural center’s road sign and a $987,000 contract with East-
“I’d hate to not utilize that money.”
David Allen, board member
ern Structures for the Bush Creek Pedestrian Bridge.
“This is located on Andrew Hunter Road at the edge of Franklinville’s existing trail and trailhead,” county engineer Paxton Arthurs said. “It will basically go from that existing trail west on the old railbed all the way out to Sapona Manufacturing.”
The bridge, which is located north of Deep River, will be 150 feet across and will connect an additional 1.5 miles of trail.
Initially, the county estimated the cost for the bridge to be $555,000, but staff found out that estimate was well below reality.
“We discussed this and thought it was probably low,”
Arthurs said. “The Sandy Creek Bridge came in just under that, so the thought we were gonna build twice as long a bridge for not much more just didn’t sound right. So we were expecting it to go up, just not expecting it to go up as much as it did.”
However, the county has $860,000 in grant funding that is set aside specifically for this project that will help offset the cost.
“I’d hate not to use that,” board member David Allen said. “Plus, there’s been a lot of work done on this already. This is not just something that happened overnight. I’d hate to not utilize that money. The trail, the cost of building the trail, upgrading whatever is there, is not going to be a million dollars or something like that. The bridge is the big thing. We can then mix and match and put together enough to utilize that trail.”
The Board of Commissioners next meet March 10.
An Outer Banks wildlife crossing will save people; can it save the last wild red wolves too?
A federal pilot program will build a 2.5-mile underpass for animals
By Allen G. Breed and Christina Larson The Associated Press
ALLIGATOR RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
— Hunters were once the greatest human threat to the country’s only unique wolf species. Today, it’s motorists. That fact was brought home last June when red wolf breeding male No. 2444 was struck and killed on U.S. 64 near Manns Harbor,. His death likely meant five pups he’d been providing for died, too.
“We were hoping the mother would return and resume care, but she never did,” Joe Madison, head of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s red wolf recovery program, said during a recent visit to the site.
For decades, conservationists have pushed for changes to U.S. 64, a busy two-lane highway to the popular Outer Banks that runs straight through the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge — one of just two places in the world where red wolves run free. They may finally be getting their wish.
In late December, the Federal Highway Administration
David Smith has spent more than 25 years as an elected official in city government
By Bob Sutton Randolph Record
ASHEBORO — Mayor David Smith of Asheboro will provide his impressions of the city’s direction during a program for the community next week as his fourth term in office winds down this year.
Smith will provide a presentation, “Asheboro Transformed: Building a Better Future in a Time of Change,” on
Wednesday on the Randolph Community College campus.
“It’s incredibly valuable to spend time looking back on the projects and innovations that the City of Asheboro has undertaken during my time working with seven different city councils,” Smith said. “It’s not to boast about what we’ve been able to accomplish, but instead, it’s about celebrating what we as a community have completed by working together.”
Smith has announced that he won’t run to keep his seat. Prior to what will be 16 years as mayor, Smith was on the city council for 12 years.
Next week’s program is open
to the public, with breakfast at 8 a.m. followed by the program at 8:30. Shah Ardalan, president of RCC, also will make comments at the JB & Claire Davis Corporate Training Center on campus.
Smith is expected to offer a behind-the-scenes perspective on what has shaped the city. He also intends to provide an overview of anticipated changes for Asheboro.
“I strongly believe that, as my time on the board comes to an end, that the City of Asheboro is ready to tackle any challenge and take advantage of every opportunity in front of us,” Smith said.
The event is designed to draw people to downtown for an afternoon
By Bob Sutton Randolph Record
ASHEBORO — A new event organized to bring customers to downtown Asheboro is scheduled for later this month.
“Sip & Shop” is described as an opportunity for residents and visitors to taste specialty wines while exploring businesses. It will be held from noon to 4 p.m. on Feb. 22. Attendees can sample wines at participating businesses, stretching from
Feb. 4
• John Fredrick Welborn, 60, of Randleman, was arrested by Randleman PD (RPD) for communicating threats, assault on a female, and resisting arrest.
Feb. 5
• Brandon Tyler Flinchum, 20, of Asheboro, was arrested by Randolph County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) for domestic criminal trespassing and possession of drug paraphernalia.
• Justin Dwayne Greene, 27, of Randleman, was arrested by Asheboro PD (APD) for trafficking opioids and possession of drug paraphernalia.
Feb. 6
• Brittany Alee Hoskins, 28, of Asheboro, was arrested by RCSO for larceny after breaking and entering, obtaining property by false pretense, breaking and entering, misdemeanor larceny, and possession of stolen goods.
Worth Street to Church Street.
“I think it’s a fun event,” said Addie Corder of Downtown Asheboro Inc. “It’s a chance to explore downtown.”
Tickets are required, with a cost of $23 in advance and $33 on the day of the event. Ticket holders must be at least 21 years old and will be required to present a state-issued photo identification at check-in.
Downtown Asheboro Inc. is the organizer. Check-in will be at Sunset Theatre.
Each ticket includes tasting passes to sample up to 25 wines (with each taste at 1 ounce). Wine must be consumed inside the business where it’s served.
and simple possession of Schedule VI controlled substance.
• Mickey Tylar Smith, 32, of High Point, was arrested by RCSO for felony larceny and possession of stolen goods.
Feb. 7
• Jeremy Lee Jones, 34, of Thomasville, was arrested by RCSO for possession of methamphetamine, possession of Schedule II controlled substance, maintaining a vehicle/ dwelling for controlled substances, and possession of drug paraphernalia.
• Michael Hugh Wood, 54, of Durham, was arrested by APD for possession with intent to sell cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, felony possession of cocaine, and maintaining a vehicle/ dwelling for controlled substances.
Feb. 8
Corder said 200 participants would be a good turnout, and she expects ticket sales to amp up a few days prior to the event.
“You’re hoping that it will be a chance to make connections for the businesses,” she said.
A map of participating businesses and a swag bag are included. Specialty tea and coffee tastings will be available at some locations, along with snack stops. A free trolley shuttle, which has sponsors, with various stops will be provided. The idea for “Sip & Shop” came from similar events in Lexington, Salisbury and Statesville, Corder said.
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in Randolph County:
Galentine’s Day Movie: “Legally Blonde”
Admission: $5 per person. Includes a small drink and popcorn. The Zoo City Social District is allowed in for this event — grab your favorite drink from any bar downtown and bring it to the movie with you.
Sunset Theatre 234 Sunset Ave.
Asheboro
Valentine’s Day: Dinner and a Movie
6-9:30 p.m.
At 6 p.m. enjoy a three-course meal at OG’s Sports Grill, down the street from Sunset Theatre. The meal includes an appetizer, entree, dessert, tea/soda and gratuity! After dinner, come to the Sunset Theatre for the 7:30 p.m. showing of Serendipity where a small drink and small popcorn is also included. Tickets: $60 per couple or $30 for individuals.
Teen Zone
Feb. 10
• Joseph Wiley Beal, 44, of Goldston, was arrested by APD for possession with intent to sell methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.
• Sonya Shea Boone, 49, of Seagrove, was arrested by RCSO for serving an active sentence. John Dallas Idol, 40, of Greensboro, was arrested by Archdale PD for possession of methamphetamine, driving while license revoked, and fictitious registration. Noemi
• Moncerrat Rivas-Nava, 41, of Randleman, was arrested by APD for resisting arrest, expired registration, and felony aiding and abetting.
• Jesse Lee Thompson, 29, of Asheboro, was arrested by APD for possession with intent to manufacture/sell/ deliver methamphetamine, maintaining a vehicle/ dwelling for controlled substances, and possession of drug paraphernalia. We stand corrected To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@nsjonline. com with “Correction request” in the subject line.
• Taijuan Jadell Matthews, 21, of Asheboro, was arrested by APD for breaking and entering a motor vehicle, assault on a female, domestic violence, impeding traffic, property damage, interfering with emergency communication, possession
• Kevin Michael Dempsey, 39, of Randleman, was arrested by APD for indecent liberties with a child.
• Christopher Ryan Rush, 34, of High Point, was arrested by RCSO for driving while license revoked and possession of drug paraphernalia.
• Ashley Brooke Roberson, 32, of Asheboro, was arrested by APD for possession with intent to sell methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession of Schedule V controlled substance.
4– 5 p.m.
Every Monday at 4 p.m., teens take over the TeenZone at the Asheboro Public Library. Asheboro Public Library TeenZone hosts programs for ages 12-plus, including arts and crafts, book clubs, tutoring nights and more. Free programs, no registration required. For more information, call 336-318-6804.
Asheboro Public Library 201 Worth St. Asheboro
Small Fruit Gardening with the Randolph County Cooperative Extension
3:30-5:30 p.m.
Every two weeks on Tuesday until Feb 18, Small Fruit Gardening with Cody Craddock from the Randolph County Cooperative Extension. Feb. 18 from 3:30-5:30 p.m. Learn more about the pruning and training of these small fruits. Please call 336-498-3141 to register.
Randleman Public Library 142 W. Academy St. Randleman
Community Blood Drive: Sponsored by Randolph County and the American Red Cross
11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
All blood types are needed. Call 336-318-6 340 to schedule an appointment; appointments are encouraged to ensure efficient processing. All participants are asked to bring a valid ID and to hydrate before arriving.
Randolph County Office Building 725 McDowell Road Asheboro
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
President Trump’s action is a major step forward to ensure a level playing field for female athletes.
IT WAS A packed week back in Washington.
Since Donald Trump took the oath of office on Jan. 20, you’ve seen the president work at a feverish pace to deliver on the promises made to you and start fixing the problems that were created during four years of a failed Biden-Harris agenda. Trump has been working not only in the executive branch but also working with me and my Republican colleagues in the House and Senate. Together, we’re sending a clear message: The return to commonsense policies is here.
Just last week, on National Girls and Women in Sports Day, Trump signed the “No Men in Women’s Sports” Executive Order, fulfilling his promise to keep biological men out of women and girls’ sports. For years, the Far Left has pushed a woke agenda and gender ideology onto women and girls’ sports, and it’s gone too far. Hardworking female athletes who have trained their whole lives to achieve their dreams have been forced to compete against biological men, often losing out on medals, scholarship funds and spots on teams.
This is unfair, wrong and dangerous.
Trump’s action is a major step forward to ensure a level playing field and equal opportunities for female athletes across our country. It also reaffirms Republicans’ commitment to advancing legislation that restores fairness, safety and integrity in women’s sports, like the Protection of Women and Girls in
Sports Act, which the House passed in January. Under Trump’s leadership, I will continue working alongside my Republican colleagues to codify these protections permanently and ensure biological men do not steal one more trophy from our female athletes.
One of the many promises made to you was to advance policies that will make America safe again, and our House Republican majority is delivering.
For years, deadly fentanyl has been smuggled across our borders and into our communities in record amounts, killing innocent Americans as a result. Too many lives are on the line, and the House took critical steps to protect them last week by passing the HALT Fentanyl Act with bipartisan support. I was proud to join my colleagues in introducing and voting for this legislation, which will give law enforcement the tools needed to prosecute traffickers and keep this lethal drug off our streets.
It is a new era of strong, America First leadership. As your voice in Congress, I will continue to advance commonsense policies that will protect you, your family and our communities. There is a lot of work to do and little time to do it, but rest assured I am committed to delivering for you.
Richard Hudson represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District in Washington, D.C.
The order prioritizes regulatory clarity, ensures fair access to banking services and repeals restrictive Biden-era policies.
LESS THAN A month into the second Trump administration, we are already seeing action on bold promises to bring clarity, regulatory reform and innovation to the crypto space — cutting burdensome regulations, reversing controversial Biden-era rulemakings and embracing digital assets at the national level. These commitments have resonated with a rapidly growing community eager for change.
On Feb. 4, Congress established a bicameral working group to develop a framework for stablecoin legislation and digital asset market structure.
Even before the inauguration, President Donald Trump made a decisive move by appointing Bo Hines as executive director of the Presidential Council of Advisers for Digital Assets, reinforcing his administration’s intent to position the United States as the global leader in digital financial innovation.
I’ve had the opportunity to engage with Hines extensively, and many North Carolinians know his name — not just from his congressional campaigns but also from his days as an NC State wide receiver. However, his greatest impact may come in the next six months, where Hines has been tasked to shepherd an emerging industry in dire need of clarity. His appointment, made official by Trump’s executive order “Strengthening American Leadership in Digital Financial Technology” on Jan. 23, marks a sweeping shift in U.S. digital asset policy. The order prioritizes regulatory clarity, ensures fair access to banking services, supports lawful, dollar-backed stablecoins and repeals restrictive Biden-era policies.
While many may recall Hines' time on the football field, it’s a fitting coincidence that he played in the Bitcoin St. Petersburg Bowl in 2014, a nod to Bitcoin’s early influence.
Now, 11 years later, Hines will work closely with White House AI and Crypto Czar and Silicon Valley tycoon David Sacks to develop a federal regulatory framework proposal for digital assets and deliver recommendations to Congress. And these efforts must move swiftly.
Per the executive order, the team will review existing regulations, recommend necessary modifications within 60 days and deliver a comprehensive policy report to the president within 180 days. A key initiative includes evaluating the creation of a strategic national digital assets stockpile — a move to strengthen the nation’s leadership in crypto.
Notably, Trump’s executive order also prohibits the federal government from issuing or promoting Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), ensuring that financial sovereignty and economic liberty remain at the forefront. North Carolina took a leading role in this effort last year, passing the widely bipartisan H.B. 690, overriding Gov. Roy Cooper’s stunning veto and becoming a national model for resisting government-controlled digital currencies.
Hines’ appointment further underscores North Carolina’s dominance in digital asset policy, following the appointment of Paul Atkins as SEC chair, a fellow North Carolinian, and leaders like Patrick McHenry, Ted Budd, Tim Moore and Addison McDowell, who have emerged as national champions for crypto innovation in recent years.
With regulators like Hines and Atkins at the helm, the Trump administration is proving that its commitment to regulatory reform isn’t just rhetoric. This administration will deliver on its promises — not through excessive enforcement, but through clear rules, financial sovereignty and pro-innovation policies that ensure the United States leads in blockchain technology for generations to come. North Carolina has long been at the forefront of digital asset policy, and with Hines helping to shape federal regulation, the state’s leadership in fostering blockchain innovation will only grow stronger.
Dan Spuller is head of industry affairs for the Washington, D.C.-based Blockchain Association.
WILDLIFE from page A1
awarded the first grants under a new $125 million Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program. Unless the grants are somehow undone by President Donald Trump, part of the money will help state agencies and nonprofit groups rebuild a 2.5-mile section of the highway with fencing and a series of culverts, or small underpasses, to allow red wolves — as well as black bears, white-tailed deer and other animals — to pass safely underneath traffic.
“When you build wildlife bridges or underpasses, you reduce human-wildlife conflict,” said Duke University ecologist Stuart Pimm, who studies wildlife migrations but is not directly involved in the project.
“There is increasing awareness that reducing traffic collisions is smart for wildlife, smart for people too.”
Other agency grants will support new bridges and underpasses for mule deer in Idaho, pronghorn antelope in New Mexico, and cougars and bears in Oregon, among other projects.
But what’s notable about the U.S. 64 project is that the goal is twofold: reducing dangerous collisions and roadkill — and saving a critically endangered species. There are thought to be fewer than 20 red wolves left in the wild; besides Alligator River, the other remaining habitat is in the nearby Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.
Madison calculates that No. 2444 represented 7% of the known wild red wolf population. “So, every time you get a mortality, that’s a significant hit,” he said.
Reducing roadkill — and saving a species?
Wildlife crossings have proliferated across the U.S. in the past 20 years with broad nonpartisan support. Most often, the objective is safety. One congressional report estimated that dangerous highway collisions with large animals kill hundreds of people and cost more than $8 billion each year.
Researchers have learned a lot about what works for different species.
“Pronghorn don’t want to go through tunnels or close spaces, so they avoid underpasses and need bridges,” said Arthur Middleton, an ecologist who studies animal migration at the University of California, Berkeley. “Whereas deer will go under or over.”
Gray wolves and coyotes — and, presumably, red wolves — will also use underpasses, or culverts, of 6 or 8 feet in diameter. Fencing is critical to funnel the animals to the structures.
Along U.S. 30 in Wyoming, seven small underpasses and fencing cut mule deer collisions by 81%. In Canada, a series of overpasses and underpasses along the Trans-Canada Highway in Banff National Park reduced collisions
with hooved animals by 94%.
But whether wildlife crossings can help prevent extinctions is a harder question to answer.
“Conservation was always a part of the story, but now we’re seeing crossings increasingly pop up that have conservation as a primary rationale,” said Ben Goldfarb, author of the book “Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of Our Planet.”
Some of the most ambitious crossings for conservation have just been built — and it will take time to assess the results.
Outside Los Angeles, a wildlife crossing over 10 lanes of U.S. 101 is expected to open in 2026. The primary aim is to help connect the habitat of mountain lions, which need to cross the freeway to find suitable mates. Inbreeding among mountain lions in the LA region has already led to genetic mutations and decreased fertility.
In Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro state, construction of a wildlife bridge spanning BR 101 was finished in 2020, then native seedlings were planted in a soil bed. Once those trees ma-
ture, researchers will study if the target species — an endangered monkey called a golden lion tamarin — uses the bridge regularly. Experts say the trees are necessary for creatures like monkeys or sloths to move across the bridge. Species that scamper on the ground, including foxes, anteaters and armadillos, are already crossing. Hope at the end of the tunnel underpass for red wolves?
While it’s not certain that a wildlife crossing can save the last red wolves, scientists say that doing nothing will almost certainly hasten their demise.
Canis rufus, often called “America’s wolf,” once roamed from central Texas to southern Iowa and as far east as Long Island, New York. After being declared extinct in the wild, red wolves were reintroduced in North Carolina in 1987.
For about 20 years, the population grew steadily to reach around 120 animals. Then their numbers crashed — with vehicle collisions a primary culprit. One study found that vehicle strikes had killed about 5%
of the red wolf population each year between their reintroduction and 2022.
Marcel P. Huijser, a study co-author and a research ecologist at Montana State University’s Western Transportation Institute, warned that the cost of doing nothing, “including losing a wild species, can be far higher than the cost of implementing effective mitigation.”
In North Carolina, Fish and Wildlife biologists have tried other measures to prevent crashes — like flashing road signs and reflective collars — without much success.
Following No. 2444’s death, conservation groups like the Wildlands Network and the Center for Biological Diversity pushed for another solution.
In September, the North Carolina Department of Transportation submitted a grant application for the Red Wolf Essential Survival Crossings Under Evacuation Route — or RESCUER — project.
Plans for the U.S. 64 wildlife crossing call for a series of underpass structures — several of them big enough for wolves and other large mammals to pass through — and the accompa-
nying fencing. The exact number and size of the underpasses has yet to be determined, said Travis W. Wilson, eastern habitat conservation coordinator for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
The estimated total cost for the project is about $31.5 million, including $4 million in private donations raised by conservation groups and an anonymous donor’s matching grant.
“This is one of the most important wildlife connectivity projects in the country,” said Beth Pratt, founder of the nonprofit The Wildlife Crossing Fund, which raised funds for the project. “Critically endangered red wolves will disappear if we do nothing.”
The Associated Press’s Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. AP’s climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations.
The AP is solely responsible for all content.
Jan. 12, 1949 – Feb. 7, 2025
Wade Lemuel Johnson, age 80 of Asheboro, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loved ones on Friday, February 07, 2025, at the Randolph Hospice House.
Wade was born on January 12, 1945, in Lincoln County, NC to Charlie Johnson and Lucy Moody Johnson. He grew up a majority of his life in Burke County, NC. Wade worked in retail for numerous years and later with Lowe’s Home Improvement.
He was a member at Berean Memorial Baptist Church for 33 years and served as their church treasurer. Wade also enjoyed listening to gospel music and being around his church family.
In addition to his parents, Wade is preceded in death by his brother, Troy Johnson; sister, Iris Allen; niece, Diana; and is now reunited with his extremely faithful canine companion, Cody.
Wade is survived by his wife of 39 years, Brenda Johnson of the home; step-son, Jerry Myers (Tabitha) of Statesville; and five loving nieces.
A Celebration of Life service will be held on Sunday, February 23, 2025 at 11:00 am with Rev. Joe Farlow and assistant pastor Earl Smith officiating.
Following Wade’s service, a pot luck meal will be served for everyone attending the service in the fellowship hall at Berean Memorial Baptist Church, 4991 Branson Davis Rd., Sophia, NC 27350.
The family would like to extend a very special thank you to their friends and neighbors at Williams Creek, to the caring staff at Alpine Health and Rehabilitation for the loving care they provided, and to the caring supportive staff, especially nurse Amber, at the Randolph Hospice House. Memorials may be made in Wade’s honor to the Randolph County Animal Shelter, 1370 County Land Rd., Randleman, NC 27317 or to Hospice of Randolph County, 416 Vision Dr., Asheboro, NC 27203.
Dec. 19, 1967 – Feb. 4, 2025
On the 4th of February 2025 a treasured soul departed from our world.
David A Rumbley was a son, a father, an uncle, a brother, a grandfather, as well as an Illustrious friend to innumerable people who had the pleasure of knowing him. Though his life was lost unexpectedly, these are among the numerous individuals that will forever cherish and hold dear the memory of his time here with us, and the unforgettable charm of his boundless personality. Despite his struggles, he always found it in himself to bestow his cheerful humor and lighthearted disposition to those around him extemporaneously. David was the sort of selfless person who would unhesitatingly offer his assistance to anyone who needed him, doing what he could even if it was simply to provide moral support or a kind shoulder to cry on. It is with heavy hearts that we bid him farewell for he will surely be intensely missed by all who knew him. Though he is no longer with us in the flesh he shall never be forgotten. May he rest in eternal peace and find heaven awaiting him without pretense.
Feb. 24, 1944 – Feb. 6, 2025
Patricia Ann Redden Ferguson, age 80, of Asheboro passed away on February 6, 2025, at Clapp’s Convalescent Nursing Home.
Mrs. Ferguson was born on February 24, 1944, in Washington Court House, Ohio to Samuel and Marietta Goldsberry Redden. Patricia was a hard worker and was employed in the furniture industry for over 30 years and the meat packing industry for 18 years. Patricia loved the Lord and was baptized on April 2, 1954. She has been a faithful Christian ever since. She was a 25-year member of Hilltop Baptist Church and, when she was able, attended church every Sunday. In addition to her parents, Patricia was preceded in death by her husband, William Hayden Ferguson Sr., daughter, Sheila Baublitz, and siblings, Terry, Sharon, Phyllis, and David. Patricia loved to spend time with her family, especially her grandchildren. She took a weeklong vacation with her children every year. She loved gardening her flowers and loved animals.
She is survived by her sons, William Ferguson (Annette), Scott Ferguson, and Troy Ferguson (Elyse); 10 grandchildren; 5 greatgrandchildren; sisters, Brenda Mickle and Bonnie Callahan; brother, Sam Redden; and several nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 8, 2025, from 6-8 p.m. at Pugh Funeral Home, 437 Sunset Avenue in Asheboro. Funeral services will be held on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Hilltop Baptist Church, 826 Crestview Church Road in Asheboro with Pastor Cliff VanVliet officiating. Entombment will follow in Randolph Memorial Park.
May 8, 1948 – Feb. 4, 2025
Rachel Jane Armondi, age 76, of Asheboro, NC passed away peacefully on February 2nd, 2025 at Randolph Hospice House in Asheboro, NC. Rachel was born on May 8th, 1948 in Caldwell County to the late Coy R. Smith and Selma F. Laws. She was a graduate of Hudson High School. Rachel was a devoted wife of 45 years, and a loving Mother and Grandmother. She worked at Alderman Company in High Point, NC for 24 years before retiring in 2015 where she made many friends by welcoming them in with a warm smile and a friendly greeting. In her earlier years she loved to garden, dance and go fishing with her husband and family. A woman of many affectionate names such as Mama, Granny, Maw-Maw, and Honey-Face. Rachel was the kind of woman who would leave a lasting impression on anyone she met. A woman who radiated warmth, love, and comfort to anyone around her. Rachel was a God-loving woman who was
March 19, 1950 – Feb. 4, 2025
Martha Garcia, 74, died peacefully in her home on February 4, 2025, surrounded by four generations of her loving family. She was predeceased by her husband of 40 years, Rafael ‘Lito’ Garcia.
Martha was born in Santiago de Maria, Usulutan, El Salvador on March 19, 1950 to Sofia Cortez and Raul Ernesto Aguirre. Santiago de Maria was and is a magical town of coffee and volcanoes. In her youth, Martha loved to play basketball, run, dance, and have fun. She then attended business school.
In her early twenties, Martha moved to Brooklyn, New York where she had her first daughter, Linda. Martha moved to New Jersey where she married Rafael Garcia, and had her youngest daughter, Liza. For many years she worked for Ralph Lauren and Polo. Finally, she and Lito moved to the beautiful green town of Asheboro.
Martha was friendly, kind, forgiving, and never shy to speak her mind. She loved children, both hers and those she worked with. She was the most responsible mother and grandmother. Her greatest recent joy was her first greatgrandson, Hendrix Boone.
Martha is survived by her 95-year-young mother Sophia Soto, who Martha cared for with so much love, her sisters Yolanda Rosales and Reina Arias, her brother Jorge Cortez, her daughters Linda Alayo, Liza Garcia, and Lisette Companioni, her grandchildren Marlon Boone Jr., Jonathan and Jolissa Belle, Randall and Sophia Staten, Kathy and Angel Garcia, her great-grandson Hendrix, and countless cousins, aunts, uncles and cherished friends.
A funeral mass will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church with Father Philip Kollithanath officiating. The family will receive friends following the mass at Pugh Funeral Home in Asheboro.
unapologetically herself in a way that inspired others to be brave enough to live with their hearts on their sleeves and to always tell those who meant the most to them how much they are loved, every single day. Rachel showed the world what it meant to love unconditionally and passed on a legacy of leaving the world a kinder and more loving place despite what cards you may have been dealt, that will live on through her husband, children and grandchildren.
Rachel is survived by her loving Husband, Alan L. Armondi of the home; Sons Jerry R Smith of Winston-Salem and Jason L. Smith (Amy) of Asheboro; Daughter Melissa A. Armondi (Bruce) of Randleman; Grandsons Jordan Smith, Austin Smith, and Michael Diaz; Sisters Mickey Shipley and Gladys Watson and brother Bill Smith (Linda); several nieces and nephews, and many more friends and family members that have a special place for her in their hearts.
Her presence will be deeply missed by all, but she will never be forgotten, and the love and lessons that she imparted during her time on this Earth will continue to live on in the hearts of those that ever had the pleasure of knowing our “Rachel Jane”.
The family will receive friends from 1 - 3 p.m. on Friday, February 7, 2025, at Pugh Funeral Home in Randleman. Service will follow immediately after where words of prayer and remembrance will be held.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Randolph Hospice House, 416 Vision Dr., Asheboro, N.C, 27203
May 10, 1935 – Feb. 4, 2025
It is with both heavy hearts and profound gratitude for a well-lived life that we announce the passing of Willie Mae Bonds (Sam) Price. Born in Winnsboro, South Carolina, to KC and Louise Bonds, Sam grew up cherishing the values of family, community, and hard work.
Personal Life
Sam was a devoted wife to Lester William (Bill) Price (deceased) and a proud mother to Lester William Price II (wife – Gail), Aaron K. (Ron) Price (wife – Kelli), James Christopher (Trick) Price (wife – Jamie), and her beloved daughter Debbie Bradshaw (deceased).
Sam is also survived by her devoted brother, Don Bonds (wife Judy), Son-inLaw, Raymond Bradshaw, and her 12 grandchildren – Brent, Amy (husband – Rustin), Katie (husband – Gabe), Aaron (wife – Sam), Megan (husband –Landon), Christopher, Erin, Mia, Sydney, Cooper, Ethan (wife –Mickaela), and Teran; and 10 great grandchildren – Noah, Loftin, Brady, Emmaline, Owen, Ryan, Iris, Beckett, Hank, and Ruth.
She was preceded in death by her Husband Bill; Daughter, Debbie Bradshaw; Grandson, Joshua Bradshaw; and Brothers Richard, Perry, Berry, and Weldon Bonds. Beyond her family, Sam found joy in fishing, puzzles, and sports—especially women’s softball and basketball, which were a constant source of enjoyment.
Life and Career After moving to Asheboro with her husband, Sam worked several years of dedicated service at the BB Walker Shoe Company. Upon retiring from Walker Shoe, Sam continued to enrich her community by living at, and managing, Lake Lucas for the City of Asheboro. Her work was always a reflection of her commitment and passion for serving others.
Memorial Service
A memorial service to honor and celebrate Sam’s remarkable life will be held on Saturday, February 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM at First E&R United Church of Christ, located at 221 Cliff Road, Asheboro, NC 27203. Family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by Sam are warmly invited to attend.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to First E&R United Church or Hospice of Randolph County. We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has shown love and support to our family during this time, and especially to Mia Devilbiss and Teran Bradshaw for their compassionate care of Sam in recent years.
Sam’s legacy of kindness, community service, and love will continue to inspire all who knew her. We are forever grateful for the time we had with her and the love she so generously shared.
Nov. 28, 1965 – Feb. 4, 2025
Born in Brooklyn, New York, Catherine was preceded in death by her parents Charles John and Stacia Madeline Colombi.
She was a loving and caring wife to her husband for 34 years, mother, and home school teacher. She attended the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, majoring in photography. She turned her talents to serving others after graduating from the Mary Immaculate School of Radiologic Technology in Newport News, Virginia. She worked in the healthcare field for close to 25 years at hospitals in Virginia, Rhode Island, and North Carolina using her God-given talent to save lives. As a registered Radiologic Technologist, she obtained advanced certification in interventional cardiology. She is survived by her husband Michael; son Matthew “Max” Borchers; brother Norman Perez and wife, Deb; niece, Shayna and nephews, Michael and CJ; brother, John Colombi and wife, Fran; niece, Samantha and nephews, John and Chuck. She loved photography and took amazing photos that she freely shared with others. She enjoyed cooking and making her family’s favorite dishes (for Mike - Chicken Pot Pie). She loved spending time at the beach as it reminded her of times growing up on Long Island and playing on the South Shore beaches. At work, her passion was caring for people in the medical field and she was proud to do her part with the cardiac catheterization team saving lives. The latter part of her life was dedicated to home schooling her son whom she adored. She loved making her home warm and welcome and in the summer spending time floating in the pool listening to her favorite music. She will be dearly missed but forever cherished.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Randolph Hospice House or AuthoraCare Collective. Visitation will be on February 22, 2025 from 10 to 10:45 a.m. followed by a funeral service at 11 a.m. at Cross Road Baptist Church in Asheboro, North Carolina. Immediately following a graveside service will be held at New Hope Memorial Gardens.
Oct. 26, 1934 – Feb. 4, 2025
Margaret Cox Nance, age 90, of Asheboro, passed away on February 4, 2025, at Randolph Hospice House. Arrangements are incomplete at this time.
Pugh Funeral Home in Asheboro is serving the Nance family.
A masked man gave the author life-threatening injuries in 2022
By Carolyn Thompson and Hillel Italie
The Associated Press
MAYVILLE, N.Y. — Salman
Rushdie described in graphic detail Tuesday the frenzied moments in 2022 when a masked man rushed at him on a stage in western New York and repeatedly slashed him with a knife, leaving him with life-threatening injuries.
The 77-year-old author addressed jurors on the second day of testimony at the trial of Hadi Matar, 27, who has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and assault in the attack. It was the first time since the attack that Rushdie found himself in the same room with the man accused of trying the kill him.
“I only saw him at the last minute,” Rushdie said. “I was aware of someone wearing black clothes, or dark clothes and a black face mask. I was very struck by his eyes, which were dark and seemed very ferocious.”
His wife, Rachel Eliza Griffiths, cried from her seat in the courtroom’s second row.
Rushdie was blinded in one eye in the attack and spent months recovering, a process he detailed in a memoir released last year. A speaker who was to appear with Rushdie also was wounded.
Jurors heard opening statements Monday, followed by testimony from staffers at the Chautauqua Institution, the nonprofit art and education center where the attack happened about 75 miles south of Buffalo.
Matar has been in custody since he was subdued by spectators after the attack.
The trial is expected to last up to two weeks.
which some Muslims consider blasphemous.
Schmidt has said discussing Matar’s motive will be unnecessary in the state trial, given the attack was seen by a live audience that was expecting to hear Rushdie present a lecture on keeping writers safe.
“This is not a case of mistaken identity,” Schmidt said during opening statements Monday. “Mr. Matar is the person who attacked Mr. Rushdie without provocation.”
A public defender representing Matar told jurors that the case is not as straightforward as prosecutors have made it out to be.
“The elements of the crime are more than ‘something really bad happened’ — they’re more defined,” Lynn Schaffer said.
“But I saw a large quantity of blood pouring onto my clothes,” he said. “He was hitting me repeatedly. Hitting and slashing.”
Rushdie said he was struck more times in his chest and torso and stabbed in his chest as he struggled to get away.
Rushdie said he first thought his knife-wielding attacker was striking him with a fist.
“I was very badly injured. I
couldn’t stand up any more. I fell down,” he said.
While lying on the stage, he recalled “a sense of great pain and shock, and aware of the fact that there was an enormous quantity of blood that I was lying in.”
“It occurred to me that I was dying. That was my predominant thought,” he said.
Jurors are unlikely to hear about a fatwa issued by the late Iranian leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini calling for Rushdie’s death, according to District Attorney Jason Schmidt.
Rushdie, the author of “Midnight’s Children” and “Victory City,” spent years in hiding after Khomeini announced the fatwa in 1989 following publication of the novel “The Satanic Verses,”
The case has been followed closely by true crime fans
By Michael Casey
The Associated Press
BOSTON — Massachusetts’ top court ruled Tuesday that Karen Read can be retried on all the same charges in the death of her Boston police officer boyfriend, the latest twist in the long-running case that transfixed true crime fans nationwide.
Prosecutors have sought to retry Read this year on charges of second-degree murder, manslaughter and leaving the scene of a crime. They accused her of ramming into John O’Keefe with her SUV and leaving him to die in a snowstorm in January 2022. Read’s attorneys argue she was framed to protect other law enforcement officers involved in O’Keefe’s death.
A judge declared a mistrial in June after finding jurors couldn’t reach an agreement, without polling the jurors to confirm their conclusions.
Read’s attorney Martin Weinberg argued that five jurors later said they were deadlocked only on the manslaughter count, and had unanimously agreed in the jury room that she wasn’t guilty
on the charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. But they hadn’t told the judge.
The ruling from the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court clears the way for a new trial on all three charges.
“The jury clearly stated during deliberations that they had not reached a unanimous verdict on any of the charges and could not do so. Only after being discharged did some individual jurors communicate a different supposed outcome, contradicting their prior notes,” the judges wrote. “Such posttrial disclosures cannot retroactively alter the trial’s outcome —either to acquit or to convict.”
The judges also found “no abuse of discretion” in Judge Beverly Cannone’s decision to declare a mistrial.
“After extensive, multiday deliberations, the jury submitted several increasingly emphatic notes about their inability to reach a unanimous verdict,” they wrote, adding that the record before the judge “suggested complete deadlock.”
Read’s lawyer said they’re considering their legal options.
“While we have great respect for the Commonwealth’s highest court, Double Jeopardy is a federal constitutional right,”
Ms. Read’s federally guaranteed constitutional rights.”
Weinberg had urged the court to allow an a evidentiary hearing where jurors could be asked whether they had reached final not guilty verdicts on any of the charges.
Weinberg said in a statement.
“We are strongly considering whether to seek federal habeas relief from what we continue to contend are violations of
Prosecutors maintained there’s no basis for dismissing the charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. They argued that her lawyers should have sensed a mistrial was “inevitable or unavoidable” and that they had every oppor-
“Something bad did happen, something very bad did happen, but the district attorney has to prove much more than that.”
In a separate indictment, federal authorities allege Matar was driven to act by a terrorist organization’s 2006 endorsement of the fatwa. A later trial on federal terrorism charges will be scheduled in U.S. District Court in Buffalo.
tunity to be heard in the trial courtroom.
The judges questioned Weinberg over the the merits for holding an inquiry. Associate Justice Frank Gaziano noted that such inquiries are usually reserved for “extraneous information” such as “racisms in the jury room.” Chief Justice Kimberly Budd wondered about the limits of allowing an inquiry, which she suggested could open the door for other defendants to argue a juror came to them to say “that’s not really what happened.”
Cannone ruled in August that Read could be retried on all three charges.
“Where there was no verdict announced in open court here, retrial of the defendant does not violate the principle of double jeopardy,” Cannone said.
Prosecutors said Read, a former adjunct professor at Bentley College, and O’Keefe, a 16 -year member of the Boston police, had been drinking heavily before she dropped him off at a party at the home of Brian Albert, a fellow Boston officer. They said she hit him with her SUV before driving away. An autopsy found O’Keefe had died of hypothermia and blunt force trauma.
The defense portrayed Read as the victim, saying O’Keefe was actually killed inside Albert’s home and then dragged outside. They argued that investigators focused on Read because she was a “convenient outsider” who saved them from having to consider law enforcement officers as suspects.
Uwharrie Charter Academy has won the Class 1A dual team championship for three consecutive seasons
By Bob Sutton Randolph Record
ASHEBORO — It’s not so much pressure on Uwharrie Charter Academy’s wrestling team to keep the trend going as it’s the pressure applied by the Eagles that keeps them atop the state in Class 1A.
The Eagles showed that again in securing their third consecutive dual team state championship Saturday afternoon, defeating Mount Airy 48-15.
“I think the pressure just motivates everyone to keep going,” junior Brennan Worrell said.
The Eagles grabbed an early lead and then finished the task with victories in the final five bouts.
It was a different roster from a year ago as half of the 14 starters from the 2023-24 lineup had graduated. There was no shortage of others ready to contribute.
First-year coach Hayden Waddell said the Eagles were on a mission.
“I’ve been on them all year to trust their training,” Waddell said. “Our guys seemed laser-focused. They’re winning and pinning.”
That’s an ideal combination, and certainly proved beneficial for UCA (39-1) in the championship showdown at the coliseum fieldhouse in Greensboro.
“There can be a little bit of pressure, but it’s all mental,” said senior Caden Bond, who
Freeman finds comfort again on wrestling mats
The Providence Grove senior missed an entire season and is aiming for a strong finish to his prep career
By Bob Sutton Randolph Record
CLIMAX — Providence Grove senior Mitchell Freeman doesn’t put much stock in keeping track of his wrestling winloss record, though it’s so good that he’s seeded third for the Class 2A Mideast Regional.
He just wanted a chance to be a factor in the postseason after an injury that cost him an entire season.
Freeman is back for his final chance, still sensing he’s trying to make up ground.
“The hardest part is feeling behind,” he said. “I felt like I was ahead of the pack after that sophomore season, and then I was way behind. Everyone had almost two years of wrestling,
and I would be sitting there twiddling my thumbs.”
A fourth-place regional finish in 2023 put him in the state tournament as a sophomore. So among the things he was determined to display the past few months: “I’m not washed up.”
Freeman, a defensive end for the football team, suffered a knee injury late in the 2023 football season. He didn’t learn of the severity of the ailment until several weeks had passed, and he ended up undergoing surgery in late December for a torn anterior cruciate ligament. He showed up on crutches to watch wrestling meets. Given the timing of the surgery, he wasn’t available for this past football season. He wasn’t cleared until there were a few games left, and by then he was ready to turn his attention to reviving his wrestling career.
“I went to all the games and stood on the sidelines, but it wasn’t the same,” he said. An even bigger weight on his
“I’ve been on them all year to trust their training.”
Hayden Waddell, UCA coach
was voted the Most Valuable Wrestler of the final.
A setback to Pisgah, which became the Class 3A runner-up, weeks ago got the Eagles’ attention.
“We lost to Pisgah early on in the season,” said junior Lorenzo Alston, a two-time individual state champion. “Before that, we were humble, but we were cocky at the same time. We thought that we couldn’t be beaten, and then when Pisgah beat us, that kind of brought us back to reality. Ever since then, everybody is putting their head
BOB SUTTON / RANDOLPH RECORD
Mitchell Freeman
mind was whether he would be the same when he locked up with wrestling opponents. He said there was heightened uncertainty because he had gone so long without a bout.
“Before the season, it was the first time I wrestled in (almost) two years,” he said. “It was really nerve-wracking. I didn’t know if I could get back to that level where I was. Now I’ve got to do twice as much to get to that level.”
He said support has come from coaches, teammates and family. In particular, there’s older brother Brooks Freeman, now a student at North Carolina State. Brooks Freeman offers encouragement, wrestling pointers
down and working. That’s what I love to see.
“Kudos to Coach Hayden for putting us back in that mindset. Coach put is in the mindset that if we lose let that be a lesson to us, just develop from there.”
Waddell, who took over from his father and longtime coach Chris Waddell, said the defeat became a good learning tool.
“We were exposed and we had to get some things fixed,” Hayden Waddell said. “I had to tighten the ship.”
The new coach sought more effort and heightened self-belief. The Eagles delivered in both areas.
The clash with Mount Airy began at 144 pounds, with Eagles winning the first five bouts. Brandon Jordan (144) and Caden Thorne (150) secured decisions, Aiden Foster (157) won with a first-period pin, Alston
(165) received a forfeit and Bond (175) recorded an 11-5 decision against John Martin.
“We’re trying to outcondition and outpace everyone,” Worrell said.
With several UCA wrestlers past participants in dual finals, Alston said those experiences were beneficial.
“It’s a little bit of pressure,” he said. “But some of us on the team have been there before.”
The rest of UCA’s points came from decisions by Michael Shropshire (215), Paxton Kearns (113) and Andrew White (120) and pins from Caleb Saldana (126), Worrell (132) and Rick Riccardella (138).
UCA, making its sixth straight appearance in the final, is 4-2 in championship dual meets.
See TITLE, page B3
Indoor track adds to busy time for basketball players
Randleman senior Chase Farlow is trying to add another title to his collection
By Bob Sutton Randolph Record
RANDLEMAN — Randleman’s Chase
Farlow, a key member of the Piedmont Athletic Conference champion boys’ basketball team, will be going for a state championship in indoor track and field this week.
Farlow is competing in indoor track and field for this first time this winter. He’s the reigning Class 2A state champion in the high jump in outdoor track and field.
He’s entered in the high jump for Friday’s Class 1A/2A state meet at JDL Fast Track in Winston-Salem.
The high jumping at this time of the year feels like out-of-season activity for Farlow, who has committed to NC State’s track and field team.
“I don’t really get any practice,” he said. “I just kind of go and jump.”
Farlow, a senior who also played football for the Tigers, cleared a mark of 6 feet, 9 inches in an indoor meet to help him
“I don’t really get any practice. I just kind of go and jump.”
Chase Farlow, Randleman senior
Becker, a Uwharrie Charter Academy junior, had the top finishes among entrants from schools in Randolph County in the swimming and diving state championships.
Becker was the runner-up in two events in the Class 1A/2A competition Saturday at Triangle Aquatic Center in Cary.
Becker’s times in the 50-yard freestyle (23.83) and 100 freestyle (51.03) were both less than 0.50 seconds out of first place.
Also, Randleman’s Kendall Fortson (sixth, girls’ 100 butterfly, 1:03.11) had a strong finish, and she reached the consolation final in the 50 freestyle. Other notable finishers were from Wheatmore with Jullian Wolfe (ninth, girls’ 100 freestyle, 56.52) and Sydney Hall (13th, girls’ 100 butterfly, 1:04.39), Colten Osborne (boys’ 500 freestyle, 5:25.23) and the girls’ 400 freestyle relay of Wolfe, Hall, Sophie Williamson and Paislee Hollifield in 13th in 4:06.32.
In Class 3A last Friday, Asheboro’s Stefan Reedy (14th, boys’ 50 freestyle, 23.23) and Maci Columbia (15th, girls’ 100 backstroke, 1:06.37) were the school’s top entrants.
TRACK from page B1
qualify for states. That was an inch shy of his personal best.
Randleman’s Gracie Beane, also a basketball player for the school, said she’ll be entered in the indoor state meet. She placed third in Class 2A in
last May’s outdoor state meet. Randleman’s regular-season schedule in basketball ends Thursday night at Trinity. “It has been a busy time, for sure,” Farlow said. The Class 3A and Class 4A indoor state meets are set for Saturday.
Southwestern Randolph reached the last week of the regular season with an undefeated record
Randolph Record staff
SOUTHWESTERN Ran-
dolph’s girls’ basketball team has put together a special season that keeps on growing.
The Cougars (22-0) entered this week with only Tuesday night’s home clash against Uwharrie Charter Academy remaining in the regular season. They’ll be the top seed next week in the Piedmont Athletic Conference Tournament.
Their 66-26 victory against visiting Eastern Randolph last
week came with Maddie Strider’s 13 points and Kenzie Martin’s 12 points and 10 rebounds.
Strider’s 11 points were tops when Southwestern Randolph prevailed with a 44-39 victory against host Wheatmore. Katelyn Whitehart had 13 points for Wheatmore.
• UCA defeated Randleman for the first time ever in girls’ basketball as Nevaeh Staples compiled 16 points in a 48-41 home victory.
“We as a coaching staff always believed we could complete at that level,” UCA coach Austin Davis said. “The team realized that they can play at that level.”
Bella Byman had 12 points for Randleman, which won the first
10 matchups with the Eagles. UCA secured a chance to finish in second place by defeating host Eastern Randoph 49-23 on Friday night. Staples and Naimah Al-Arif each had eight points for UCA. That result to cap the week gave UCA 19 victories, matching a program record.
• It was quite a week for Providence Grove, beginning with a 60-26 trouncing of visiting Trinity.
Later, Providence Grove completed a regular-season sweep of Randleman with Laurel Bernhart tallying 28 points in a 46-37 road victory. The Patriots also had a 43-27 nonconference victory against visiting Southern Alamance.
Randleman has continued to excel, while Eastern Randolph has been rolling as well
Randolph Record staff
RANDLEMAN — Randleman’s boys’ basketball team rose to the top among a crowd of contenders in the Piedmont Athletic Conference.
The Tigers clinched the regular-season title last week with a pair of victories. Randleman won last week’s showdown at Uwharrie Charter Academy by 7766 with Tyshaun Goldston’s 23 points and Chase Farlow’s 18 points leading the way. That avenged the Tigers’ only loss of the season.
Jaylan Brown had 18 points and Braedan Lamb provided 16 points for UCA.
Then on Friday night, Randleman’s Connor Cassidy had 22 points and Farlow notched 20 points as the host Tigers withstood 25 points
apiece from Providence Grove’s Andrew Thomas and Will Dabbs for a 79-61 victory.
So Randleman, regardless of results this week, will hold the top seed for next week’s PAC Tournament.
• Timothy Brower scored 21 points and Julian Brooks notched 15 points as second-place Eastern Randolph pulled away to defeat visiting UCA 83-63 in Monday night’s make-up game. Brower, a senior guard, eclipsed 1,500 career points. Lamb’s 3-pointer gave UCA a 45-43 third-quarter lead before the Wildcats cranked out a 13-0 spurt capped by 3-pointers from Antwan Gatling and Camden Jones. Tyler Gee and Jones both finished with 12 points. Aaron Smith’s 20 points and Lamb’s 14 points paced the Eagles.
The longtime basketball coach retired last year following more than three decades in the position
By Bob Sutton Randolph Record
FORMER TRINITY boys’ basketball coach Tim Kelly has been selected for induction into the North Carolina High School Athletic Association’s Hall of Fame for the Class of 2025. Kelly, who directed Trinity to a state championship in 2004, retired last summer. The school’s gym is named in his honor. He began coaching in 1981 and started coaching basketball at Trinity in 1989, winning 11 conference titles, four sectional championships and
two regional championships. He also coached football and cross-country for different stretches. Kelly coached in the North Carolina East-West All Star Game in 2005.
Others selected for the Class of 2025 are Brad Allen,
• Providence Grove upended visiting Trinity 75-33 with Dabbs providing 26 points. In a nonleague game, Providence Grove topped visiting Southern Alamance 61-59 in overtime with Thomas scoring 24 points and Dabbs racking up 17 points. It marked a sweep of two meetings for Providence Grove.
• Wheatmore drubbed visiting Southwestern Randolph 56-34 behind 20 points from Parker Kines.
• Asheboro had a four-game winning streak snapped with Friday night’s 67-62 loss at Ledford in the Mid-Piedmont Conference. Asheboro guard Elijah Woodle (illness) missed the game.
Earlier last week, the Blue Comets used Osiris Rodriguez’s 21 points in a 66-54 victory against host North Davidson. Asheboro’s nonconference make-up game at Northwest Guilford was called off Monday.
Eastern Randolph drilled host Southwestern Randolph 72-50 last week. The Wildcats also topped visiting Jordan-Matthews 68-55 in a nonleague game with Brower scoring 24 and Brooks posting 15.
a longtime high school official from Lumberton who worked his way to the NFL; Tommy Cole, a longtime basketball and boys’ golf coach at Burlington Williams (and won a boys’ basketball state title directing Graham as well); Jerry Hunter, a deceased softball and girls’ basketball coach and athletics director at East Duplin; Richard Prince, a former coach and official for track and field and cross-country in Monroe; Steve Spivey, a longtime tennis coach at Raleigh-area schools; Doyle Whitfield, a former baseball coach and athletics director at Southern Wayne; and Russell Woodward, an ex-track and field coach at Greensboro Grimsley and former athletics director and administrator at Greensboro Smith, Northwest Guilford and Ragsdale. Members of the induction class will be invited to a reception April 23 at NCHSAA offices in Chapel Hill. Formal induction will take place Aug. 16 at Embassy Suites in Cary.
Dresden demolished, seven gunned down in “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre,” “Cinderella” premiered
The Associated Press
FEB. 13
1945: Allied forces in World War II began a three - day bombing raid on Dresden, Germany, killing as many as 25,000 people and triggering a firestorm that swept through the city center.
1935: A jury found Bruno Richard Hauptmann guilty of first-degree murder in the kidnap-slaying of Charles A. Lindbergh Jr.
1996: The rock musical “Rent,” by Jonathan Larson, premiered off-Broadway.
2016: U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia died at age 79.
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1779: English explorer James Cook was killed on the island of Hawai’i during a melee following Cook’s attempt to kidnap Hawaiian monarch Kalaniʻōpuʻu.
1929: The “St. Valentine’s Day Massacre” took place in a Chicago garage as seven rivals of Al Capone’s gang were gunned down.
1984: Six-year-old Stormie Jones became the world’s first heart-liver transplant recipient.
FEB. 15
1898: The battleship USS Maine mysteriously exploded in Havana Harbor, killing more than 260 crew members and bringing the United States closer to war with Spain.
1879: President Rutherford
B. Hayes signed a law allowing female attorneys to argue cases before the U.S. Supreme Court. 1933: President-elect Franklin D. Roosevelt escaped an assassination attempt in Miami that mortally wounded Chicago Mayor Anton J. Cermak. 1950: Walt Disney’s animated film “Cinderella” premiered in Boston.
FEB. 16
1959: Fidel Castro became premier of Cuba a month and a half after the overthrow of Fulgencio Batista.
1862: The Civil War Battle of Fort Donelson in Tennessee ended as some 12,000 Confederate soldiers surrendered. Union Gen. Ulysses S. Grant’s victory earned him the moniker “Unconditional Surrender Grant.”
1923: The burial chamber of King Tutankhamen’s recently unearthed tomb was unsealed in Egypt by English archaeologist Howard Carter.
FEB. 17
1801: The U.S. House of
Representatives broke an electoral tie between Thomas Jefferson and Aaron Burr, electing Jefferson president; Burr became vice president.
1815: The United States and Britain exchanged the instruments of ratification for the Treaty of Ghent, ending the War of 1812.
1863: The International Red Cross was founded in Geneva.
1864: During the Civil War, the Union ship USS Housatonic was rammed and sunk in Charleston Harbor, South Carolina, by the Confederate hand-cranked submarine HL Hunley in the first naval attack of its kind; the Hunley also sank.
FEB. 18
1564: Michelangelo died in Rome.
1885: Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” was published in the U.S. for the first time (after being published in Britain and Canada).
1983: Thirteen people were shot to death at a gambling club in Seattle’s Chinatown in what became known as the Wah Mee Massacre. (Two men were convicted of the killings and were sentenced to life in prison; a third was found guilty of robbery and assault.)
2001: Veteran FBI agent Robert Philip Hanssen was charged with spying for Russia.
FEB. 19
1473: Astronomer Nicolaus Copernicus was born in Torun, Poland.
1807: Former Vice President Aaron Burr, accused of treason, was arrested in the Mississippi Territory, in present-day Alabama.
1945: Operation Detachment began during World War II as some 30,000 U.S. Marines began landing on Iwo Jima.
Cruising through regionals
Last Wednesday night at home, UCA upended South Davidson 58-23 in the East Region semifinals without dropping a bout in contested matches and then sticking North East Carolina Prep by 54-24 in the regional final. Rosewood forfeited the semifinal to North East Carolina Prep.
“We won rings the last two years, and we plan to go back and do it again,” Jordan said afterward.
Against South Davidson, UCA winners by pins were White, Worrell, Jordan, Thorne and Alston, while Torin Brigman (138) claimed a decision.
Then vs. North East Carolina Prep, White, Worrell, Jordan, Thorne, Alston, Foster, Bond (175) and Rylan Alva-
rez (190) notched pins. Those were all first-period falls except for second-period endings for White and Thorne.
The regional final lasted 37 minutes.
In the West Region, Mount Airy defeated Bradford Prep 52-30 and Robbinsville 38-27 on Wednesday to qualify for the state final.
Trinity’s reign ends
Trinity didn’t repeat as Class 2A state champion.
The Bulldogs fell 36-33 to third-seeded Rutherfordton-Spindale Central in a bid for a second straight West Region championship last Wednesday.
In the regional semifinals, top-seeded Trinity defeated fourth-seeded Eden Morehead 44-25, while R-S Central topped second-seed and regional host Newton-Conover 36-31.
Against Eden Morehead, Trinity won the first six bouts, beginning with a pin from heavyweight Joseph Trahan. Omega Edge (120), Kayden Hess (132) and Zane Schloemer (157) also won by pins, while Aiden Burkholder (106) and Jaden Allred cruised with technical falls, Lawson Coltrane (165) won by major decision and Stephen Cross (113) and Edgar Vasquez (26) prevailed by decisions.
In the regional final, the Bulldogs received first-period pins from Burkholder, Edge and Coltrane and a second-period pin from Allred. Cross, Baron Justice (150) and Trahan won by decisions. All 14 bouts were contested, with five of R-S Central’s seven victories by pins.
R-S Central went on to defeat Seaforth 34-32 on Saturday for the state title.
WRESTLING from page B1 and motivation. He was a thirdplace state finisher in 2022 for Providence Grove.
“He has really been supporting me,” Mitchell Freeman said. “I usually do better when he’s at matches. … His senior year, he placed at states. I’d like to be able to do better than him and hold it over his head.”
The younger of Freeman brothers began this season with matches in the 165-pound weight class and then moved to 157.
The results largely have been
encouraging, ringing up a 21-2 record prior to Christmas. He has won invitationals at Cedar Ridge and Jordan-Matthews and plenty of other bouts.
Freeman, who might play tennis this spring for the Patriots, said he hopes to go to college to study engineering. Before that, there’s more time on the mats. Providence Grove goes to Eden Morehead for regionals Friday and Saturday.
“I’m pretty happy with the season,” he said. “No matter what happens at regionals or states, I’ve kind of proven to myself that I could come back.”
Colin MacKnight is commemorating the 275th anniversary of the famed composer’s death
By Andrew DeMillo
The Associated Press
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. It was hushed inside a 140-year-old cathedral on the outskirts of Little Rock’s downtown as about five dozen people sat in the pews during a recent lunch break in January.
The nave filled with the sounds of the Gothic church’s pipe organ, and a screen showed a man performing the works of Johann Sebastian Bach. Those gathered weren’t there for church but for the third concert in a series Colin MacKnight is performing over the next year to commemorate the 275th anniversary of Bach’s death.
MacKnight, Trinity Episcopal Cathedral’s music director, is performing all of Bach’s organ works throughout 2025 — one lunch break at a time. The ambitious plan entails performing 18 hours of music in half-hour increments nearly every Wednesday.
“I’ve wanted to (do this) for a really long time because it’s, I think, the most thorough way of immersing myself in the brilliance of Johann Sebastian Bach,” MacKnight said one morning as he rehearsed in the empty cathedral the day before a concert.
“I’ve wanted to (do this) for a really long time because it’s, I think, the most thorough way of immersing myself in the brilliance of Johann Sebastian Bach.”
Colin MacKnight
MacKnight, who is from Bethesda, Maryland, has been music director at Trinity for three years. He said the first time he remembers hearing Bach was at a relative’s funeral when he was about 12 years old.
“Something about hearing it that time just really mesmerized me, and that was the beginning of my love of Bach,” he said.
The 31-year-old’s hands move easily between the four keyboards of the organ console, flanked by knobs controlling different sounds that are assembled into various combinations.
“If you don’t know what you’re looking at, it’s a little overwhelming, like an airplane console,” he said.
MacKnight’s concerts — which are free and open to the public — are also mini-lessons for those who come, with a glossary of terms like concerto and fugue included in
the program. In between pieces, MacKnight gives audience members some background on Bach and his organ works.
“These pieces are in the unfortunate category of being much, much harder than they sound,” he says.
The free concerts so far have drawn a mix of church members, classical music aficionados and newcomers who say they want a quiet break from the daily bustle.
“I like the complexity of the music and the power of the organ, which stirs me internally,” said Barry Coplin, a member of the church who has attended two of MacKnight’s concerts.
Ben Wiley is a classical music fan who was attending his third of MacKnight’s shows and said he appreciates being able to hear Bach’s works in half-hour increments.
“It’s a good way to be able to get it done in short bursts, to be able to absorb it better and come back to get the next batch,” he said.
The Rev. Thomas Alexander, a priest at Trinity, said the concerts allow the public to enjoy MacKnight’s talents, come together and learn more about Bach in a way they normally wouldn’t be able to.
“It’s like reading someone’s complete collection of novels. You get to really get to know someone in a comprehensive way,” Alexander said.
‘Hold Strong’ sets love story amid greatest maritime horror of World War II
Sam and Sarah are fictional, but the events they find themselves in are not
By Rob Merrill The Associated Press
THIS YEAR, the world will mark the 80th anniversary of VJ Day, when Japan formally surrendered to the Allies and ended the horrors of World War II. Eight decades later, “Hold Strong,” a work of historical fiction by Robert Dugoni, written in partnership with academic researchers Jeff Langholz and Chris Crabtree, proves those horrors are still fertile storytelling ground.
“Hold Strong” is the story of Sam Carlson and Sarah Haber, young sweethearts in Eagle Grove, Minnesota, when the story begins. He joins the Army at the tail end of the Great Depression and quickly rises in rank to become a leader of men. Taken prisoner by the Japanese in 1942, he survives a series of atrocities, from the Bataan Death March in the Philippines to captivity in a Japanese “hell ship,” the Arisan Maru. She’s “the smartest girl in class,” who is recruited while studying mathematics at Mankato State Teachers Col-
“Hold Strong” by Robert Dugoni was written in partnership with academic researchers Jeff Langholz and Chris Crabtree.
lege to become a code breaker, eventually joining the WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) and playing a critical role in helping turn the tide of war. Sam and Sarah are fictional, but the events they find themselves in are not. Langholz and Crabtree provide more than 100 pages in the Afterword and Notes sections citing sources and detailing the facts
“It’s thrilling stuff, made all the more so by its grounding in history.”
that ground the story. Readers can ignore them or take a deep dive. Do the 424 pages before that stand up on their own without the historical context? They do. “Hold Strong” is cinematic in its scope and written in a way that could easily be adapted, telling Sam’s story, then going back in time and recounting what Sarah was up to while Sam was overseas. It’s well paced, with developed characters beyond just sweethearts Sam and Sarah. There’s Father Tom, whose unshakable faith keeps Sam alive during his darkest moments, and Grace Moretti, who befriends Sarah in the Navy and tells her to use her mind “to get what you want.”
The book really takes off in the final 150 or so pages, becoming something straight out of a Tom Clancy novel, with submarines and secret codes and war-altering decisions made at a heavy cost. It’s thrilling stuff, made all the more so by its grounding in history.
Yoko Ono is 92, Maceo Parker turns 82, Michael Jordan hits 62, Dr. Dre is 60, Vanna White turns 69
The Associated Press THESE CELEBRITIES have birthdays this week:
FEB. 13
Basketball Hall of Fame coach Mike Krzyzewski is 78. Musician Peter Gabriel is 75. Musician Peter Hook is 69. Singer-writer Henry Rollins is 64.
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Businessman-politician Michael Bloomberg is 83. Saxophonist Maceo Parker is 82. Journalist Carl Bernstein is 81. Magician Teller (Penn and Teller) is 77.
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Jazz musician Henry Threadgill is 81. Composer John Adams is 78. Cartoonist Art Spiegelman is 77. Actor Jane Seymour is 74. “The Simpsons” creator Matt Groening is 71.
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Actor LeVar Burton is 68. Actor-rapper Ice-T is 67. International Tennis Hall of Famer John McEnroe is 66. Rock musician Andy Taylor is 64. Actor Mahershala Ali is 51.
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Actor Rene Russo is 71. Actor Richard Karn is 70. Actor Lou Diamond Phillips is 63. Basketball Hall of Famer Michael Jor-
‘Yellowjackets’ season three features Oscar winner Hilary Swank
The Associated Press
RENÉE ZELLWEGER returning to one of her most indelible roles in “Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy” and Questlove offering the definitive documentary on funk crossover star Sly Stone are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you.
Also, among the streaming offerings worth your time: husband-and-wife duo The War and Treaty return with the album “Plus One,” ice skaters of color and their coaches are the focus of a new docuseries called “Harlem Ice” and the first two episodes drop of season three of Showtime’s horror series “Yellowjackets.”
MOVIES TO STREAM
Zellweger returns to one of her most indelible roles in “Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy.” If you’ve lost track, the film, streaming Thursday on Peacock, is the fourth “Bridget Jones” movie and first since 2016’s “Bridget Jones’ Baby.” In “Mad About a Boy,” based on Helen Fielding’s 2013 novel, Jones, a widow now in her 50s, is drawn toward two romantic possibilities: a teacher played by Chiwetel Ejiofor and a 29-year-old played by Leo Woodall.
Questlove, the Roots drummer and ubiquitous performer, has turned into a must-watch documentarian. In “Sly Lives! (aka the Burden of Black Genius),” Questlove follows his Oscar-winning “Summer of Soul” and the recent “Ladies & Gentlemen... 50 Years of SNL Music” with the definitive documentary on Sly Stone, the funk crossover bandleader of Sly and the Family Stone. The film, stuffed with archival footage and contemporary interviews, and spanning the meteoric rise and tragic fall of Stone, streams Thursday on Hulu.
Scott Derrickson’s “The Gorge” stars Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy as a pair of operatives assigned to guard towers on opposing sides of a gorge, within which a mysterious evil lurks. The film, which debuts Friday, Feb. 14 on Apple TV+, co-stars Sigourney Weaver.
MUSIC TO STREAM
It wasn’t that long ago that Alessia Cara’s full-hearted pop was unavoidable; it earned her the coveted best new artist Grammy in 2018 and “Scars to Your Beautiful” endures as
a 2010s classic. But much has changed in that time, and the Canadian singer-songwriter has lived a lot of life since. Her forthcoming fourth studio album, “Love & Hyperbole,” out on Valentine’s Day, is an expression of that growth. “Dead Man” traces the end of a relationship; “(Isn’t It) Obvious” features a guitar solo from John Mayer. Giants of country music with the pipes to back it up, husband-and-wife duo The War and Treaty return with a new album, “Plus One.” Like the bulk of their discography, this is a collection meant to inspire love and connection in its listeners (of course amplified by the Valentine’s Day release date) with soulful, twang-y songs about family and faith. In 1992, Eric Clapton recorded an hour-long performance at Bray Studios in Windsor, England, titled “Eric Clapton Unplugged,” one of the best-selling live albums of all time. (And of course it is — no one is immune to the charms of an acoustic “Tears in Heaven.”) Paramount+ subscribers can now experience the magic once more — now in the form of an extend-
ed, remixed and remastered 90-minute edition titled “Eric Clapton Unplugged… Over 30 Years Later.” It features new interview footage captured before the performance.
SHOWS
“Muslim Matchmaker” is a new Hulu docuseries that follows two matchmakers dedicated to helping Muslim American singles find love while also keeping in line with their religious values. Viewers will see these professional cupids navigate their clients’ expectations in a world of dating apps and ghosting. The series is created by the same person who brought “Indian Matchmaking” to Netflix. It may still be cold outside, but it’s summertime on Bravo with season 9 of “Summer House.” The reality series stars a group of Manhattanites who share a house on the weekends in the Hamptons. Whereas last season followed the tumultuous engagement of cast members Lindsay Hubbard and Carl Radke, the new episodes were filmed about a year later — af-
ter their breakup. The two may have moved on, but it doesn’t take a Magic 8 Ball to assume they’ll still have issues. We’ll also see Hubbard pregnant with her first child. “Summer House” is streaming on Bravo and streams on Peacock. Ice skaters of color and their coaches are the focus of a new docuseries called “Harlem Ice.” Viewers will follow the young skaters experience triumphs and challenges as they train and compete in a sport that is traditionally white. “Good Morning America” host Robin Roberts is an executive producer alongside Ron Howard and Brian Grazer. All five episodes are on Disney+. The first two episodes of season three of Showtime’s horror series “Yellowjackets” drop Friday on Paramount+. When a plane carrying a girls’ high school soccer team crashes in the middle of nowhere, its survivors are in a fight to survive. It’s inspired by William Golding’s 1954 classic, “Lord of the Flies.” “Yellowjackets” unfolds in two timelines: one at the time of the crash and one two decades later when the girls are adult women. Its stars in-
clude Melanie Lynskey, Christina Ricci and Lauren Ambrose. Oscar winner Hilary Swank joins season three in a recurring role.
VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY
The world today seems utterly chaotic, so what better time to experiment with starting the whole thing over from scratch? That’s always been the appeal of Firaxis Games’ long-running Civilization series, and Sid Meier’s Civilization VII adds some intriguing new twists to the formula. First, each session is divided into three eras — Antiquity, Exploration and Modern — and each era ends with an empire-shattering crisis. You can bounce around between different cultures — say, starting in ancient China and winding up in the U.S.A. And you have a fresh batch of leaders, from Confucius to Machiavelli to Harriet Tubman, to lean on for advice and inspiration. As usual, you get to decide whether to be peaceful and diplomatic or run around blowing your neighbors to smithereens. The world is yours on PlayStation 5/4, Xbox X/S/One, Switch or PC.
North Carolina residents would be forgiven for being confused about the weather trends lately, but boaters on Jordan Lake made the most of a sunny, warm day last Tuesday. It didn’t last long, with rain and colder temps back on the menu this week.
U.S. inflation worsened in January with grocery, gas prices rising
Washington, D.C.
U.S. inflation accelerated last month as the cost of groceries, gas and used cars rose, a trend that will likely underscore the Federal Reserve’s resolve to delay any further interest rate cuts. The consumer price index increased 3% in January from a year ago, Wednesday’s report from the Labor Department showed, up from 2.9% the previous month. It has increased from a 31/2-year low of 2.4% in September. The figures underscore the stickiness of inflation.
UnitedHealthcare fined
$3.4M by N.C. for claims violations
Raleigh Insurance Commissioner
Mike Causey fined UnitedHealthcare
$3.4 million following a fouryear investigation into the company’s claims handling practices involving balance billing. The investigation found instances where UnitedHealthcare failed to follow its procedures to protect members from excess charges by out-of-network providers, particularly for emergency room and anesthesia services. While accepting the settlement, UnitedHealthcare denied violating any regulations. The company must provide a corrective action plan and submit to future compliance examinations. The fine will benefit North Carolina public schools.
District aims to offer boys volleyball for the spring
By Ryan Henkel North State Journal
RAEFORD — On top of a new building, Hoke County High School is also going to have a brand new logo and mascot.
At its Feb. 11 meeting, the Hoke County Schools Board of Education was presented with the potential new mascot and branding for Hoke County High School designed by Loaded For Bear.
The Fighting Bucks logo features a front-facing buck in red-and-black coloring with a bold typography.
“By adopting a single, official mascot, Hoke County High School will strengthen its brand, promote school spirit and ensure a distinct and exclusive representation of the institute’s values and community,” said assistant superintendent Chad Hunt.
The change was necessary due to the prior mascot/logo
having been an already copyrighted image.
“We were using a mascot that was copyrighted basically,” Hunt said. “So once that information was shared with me, I made sure to share it with the superintendent, and we also conferred with our legal representation about what steps to take so that we could use a mascot that would be Hoke County High School’s mascot, logo and identity that we would have copyright image and typography control over legally.”
“This is wonderful,” said board member Ruben Castellon. “I’m super impressed, and it’s even better than the old logo. I would say, and excuse my language, but it looks bad ‘blank,’ and you can fill in the blank.”
The board was also presented with the district’s idea to start offering boys’ volleyball at the high school level.
“We’ve been looking to add a new sport to our list, and what this is intended to do is provide opportunities for students that are not already doing some-
thing,” said Athletic Director Antonio Covington. “We’re always trying to find a niche for students to give them something to do, some way to engage in what we do.”
Boys’ volleyball will be offered in the spring — the district hopes to have it up and running by March — and because of that, there is no conflict with basketball or girls volleyball.
“We have a lot of interest in it,” Covington said. “Having walked through some P.E. classes and just questioning kids and once they found out, it just really blew up. Students are very interested in playing boys volleyball.”
According to Covington, boys’ volleyball is not yet a sanctioned sport by the North Carolina High School Athletic Association, but it is approximately a dozen or so schools away from becoming one.
Covington also stated that there is a grant available to offset the first-year costs associated with starting up a boys’ volleyball team.
The Hoke County Schools Board of Education will next meet March 11.
An Outer Banks wildlife crossing will save people; can it save the last wild red wolves too?
A federal pilot program will build a 2.5-mile underpass for animals
By Allen G. Breed and Christina Larson
The Associated Press
ALLIGATOR RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
— Hunters were once the greatest human threat to the country’s only unique wolf species. Today, it’s motorists. That fact was brought home last June when red wolf breeding male No. 2444 was struck and killed on U.S. 64 near Manns Harbor,. His death likely meant five pups he’d been providing for died, too.
“We were hoping the mother would return and resume care, but she never did,” Joe Madison, head of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s red wolf recovery program, said during a recent visit to the site. For decades, conservationists have pushed for changes to U.S. 64, a busy two-lane highway to the popular Outer Banks that runs straight through the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge — one of just two places in the world where red wolves run free. They may finally be getting their wish.
In late December, the Federal Highway Administration
The Rev. Marvin Seals becomes the congregation’s 26th leader
North State Journal staff
FIRST BAPTIST Church Raeford installed the Rev. Marvin Seals, of Laurinburg, as its 26th pastor during a service Jan. 12.
Seals, who succeeds longtime pastor the Rev. Tom Lee following his retirement in July 2023, is a graduate of Scotland High School and holds a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and religion from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke. He earned his master’s degree in divinity with biblical counseling from Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary.
The Rev. Toby Neal, the Pee Dee Baptist Associational Mission Strategist and friend of Seals, delivered the installation message. The Rev. Alan Taylor, associational mission strategist for the Robeson Baptist Association, witnessed the signing of the church covenant.
During the service, Mary Neil King presented a brief his-
tory of the church, which began in 1899 as Moore’s Chapel, predating both the City of Raeford’s 1903 founding and Hoke County’s establishment in 1911. The church was originally located about two miles down Highway 211 South at its intersection with Old Maxton Road in what was then Robeson County. Joyce Bounds, who chaired the Pastor Search Committee, noted that despite conducting a nationwide search lasting nearly 17 months, they found their next pastor just 12 miles away. Seals is married to Kerri Seals, and they have two sons, William and Jacob.
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
President Trump’s action is a major step forward to ensure a level playing field for female athletes.
IT WAS A packed week back in Washington.
Since Donald Trump took the oath of office on Jan. 20, you’ve seen the president work at a feverish pace to deliver on the promises made to you and start fixing the problems that were created during four years of a failed BidenHarris agenda. Trump has been working not only in the executive branch but also working with me and my Republican colleagues in the House and Senate. Together, we’re sending a clear message: The return to commonsense policies is here.
Just last week, on National Girls and Women in Sports Day, Trump signed the “No Men in Women’s Sports” Executive Order, fulfilling his promise to keep biological men out of women and girls’ sports. For years, the Far Left has pushed a woke agenda and gender ideology onto women and girls’ sports, and it’s gone too far. Hardworking female athletes who have trained their whole lives to achieve their dreams have
COLUMN | DAN SPULLER
been forced to compete against biological men, often losing out on medals, scholarship funds and spots on teams.
This is unfair, wrong and dangerous.
Trump’s action is a major step forward to ensure a level playing field and equal opportunities for female athletes across our country. It also reaffirms Republicans’ commitment to advancing legislation that restores fairness, safety and integrity in women’s sports, like the Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which the House passed in January. Under Trump’s leadership, I will continue working alongside my Republican colleagues to codify these protections permanently and ensure biological men do not steal one more trophy from our female athletes.
One of the many promises made to you was to advance policies that will make America safe again, and our House Republican majority is delivering.
The order prioritizes regulatory clarity, ensures fair access to banking services and repeals restrictive Biden-era policies.
LESS THAN A month into the second Trump administration, we are already seeing action on bold promises to bring clarity, regulatory reform and innovation to the crypto space — cutting burdensome regulations, reversing controversial Biden-era rulemakings and embracing digital assets at the national level. These commitments have resonated with a rapidly growing community eager for change.
On Feb. 4, Congress established a bicameral working group to develop a framework for stablecoin legislation and digital asset market structure.
Even before the inauguration, President Donald Trump made a decisive move by appointing Bo Hines as executive director of the Presidential Council of Advisers for Digital Assets, reinforcing his administration’s intent to position the United States as the global leader in digital financial innovation.
I’ve had the opportunity to engage with Hines extensively, and many North Carolinians know his name — not just from his congressional campaigns but also from his days as an NC State wide receiver. However, his greatest impact may come in the next six months, where Hines has been tasked to shepherd an emerging industry in dire need of clarity. His appointment, made official by Trump’s executive order “Strengthening American Leadership
COLUMN | DR. ANTHONY SANTANGELO, D.C.
in Digital Financial Technology” on Jan. 23, marks a sweeping shift in U.S. digital asset policy. The order prioritizes regulatory clarity, ensures fair access to banking services, supports lawful, dollar-backed stablecoins and repeals restrictive Biden-era policies.
While many may recall Hines’ time on the football field, it’s a fitting coincidence that he played in the Bitcoin St. Petersburg Bowl in 2014, a nod to Bitcoin’s early influence.
Now, 11 years later, Hines will work closely with White House AI and Crypto Czar and Silicon Valley tycoon David Sacks to develop a federal regulatory framework proposal for digital assets and deliver recommendations to Congress. And these efforts must move swiftly. Per the executive order, the team will review existing regulations, recommend necessary modifications within 60 days and deliver a comprehensive policy report to the president within 180 days. A key initiative includes evaluating the creation of a strategic national digital assets stockpile — a move to strengthen the nation’s leadership in crypto.
Notably, Trump’s executive order also prohibits the federal government from issuing or promoting Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs), ensuring that financial sovereignty and economic liberty remain at the forefront. North Carolina took a leading role in this effort
The roots of chiropractic date back to its discovery on Sept. 18, 1895.
I HAVE BEEN A CHIROPRACTOR working with patients since 1996. I completed my undergraduate degree at Purdue University and my doctorate degree at Life College of Chiropractic in Marietta, Georgia.
I’ve been serving Hoke County since 1998 at Family Chiropractic Center in Raeford. My experience includes more than 178,000 patient visits and analyzing over 60,000 X-rays and MRIs combined. I am honored to have a team of three chiropractic assistants with over 75 years of combined experience serving patients for better health in our community. I have been on the FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital Campus Board of Advisors since 2013 and have served the Raeford Kiwanis Club for 25 years. The roots of chiropractic date back to its discovery on Sept. 18, 1895. Chiropractic was
discovered by Daniele D. Palmer in Davenport, Iowa. Its premise was that correction of misaligned spinal vertebra would reduce nerve interference, increase joint mobility, untorque the disc and restore normal muscle tone, and help restore proper nerve function. With proper nerve flow, the body would then begin to heal better. In the state of North Carolina, one must have a four-year degree in sciences and four years of postgraduate studies in chiropractic from an accredited college. Some of the courses of study are biochemistry, spinal anatomy, osteology, gross dissection, orthopedic diagnosis, X-ray interpretation, neuroanatomy, microbiology, endocrinology, nutrition, radiology, immunology, obstetrics, gynecology, geriatrics and pediatrics. The chiropractic student has about two years of
For years, deadly fentanyl has been smuggled across our borders and into our communities in record amounts, killing innocent Americans as a result. Too many lives are on the line, and the House took critical steps to protect them last week by passing the HALT Fentanyl Act with bipartisan support. I was proud to join my colleagues in introducing and voting for this legislation, which will give law enforcement the tools needed to prosecute traffickers and keep this lethal drug off our streets. It is a new era of strong, America First leadership. As your voice in Congress, I will continue to advance commonsense policies that will protect you, your family and our communities. There is a lot of work to do and little time to do it, but rest assured I am committed to delivering for you.
Richard Hudson represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District in Washington, D.C.
last year, passing the widely bipartisan H.B. 690, overriding Gov. Roy Cooper’s stunning veto and becoming a national model for resisting government-controlled digital currencies.
Hines’ appointment further underscores North Carolina’s dominance in digital asset policy, following the appointment of Paul Atkins as SEC chair, a fellow North Carolinian, and leaders like Patrick McHenry, Ted Budd, Tim Moore and Addison McDowell, who have emerged as national champions for crypto innovation in recent years.
With regulators like Hines and Atkins at the helm, the Trump administration is proving that its commitment to regulatory reform isn’t just rhetoric. This administration will deliver on its promises — not through excessive enforcement, but through clear rules, financial sovereignty and pro-innovation policies that ensure the United States leads in blockchain technology for generations to come. North Carolina has long been at the forefront of digital asset policy, and with Hines helping to shape federal regulation, the state’s leadership in fostering blockchain innovation will only grow stronger.
Dan Spuller is head of industry affairs for the Washington, D.C.-based Blockchain Association.
clinical internship with a public outpatient chiropractic clinic prior to graduation. Four parts of the national board exams must be passed, as well as a state clinical board exam. These are required for licensure. Once licensed, the chiropractor is required to take a minimum of 18 credit hours of continuing education each year for renewal. There are over 70,000 chiropractors in the United States today. Chiropractic has been a choice for over 130 years to help relieve headaches, neck pain, back pain, sciatica, disc problems and symptoms resulting from sports injuries, slip and falls, and car crashes. It is a noninvasive, gentle, safe way to better health.
I’m looking forward to covering multiple avenues of better health in this monthly column in the Hoke County Edition of North State Journal.
WILDLIFE from page A1
awarded the first grants under a new $125 million Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program. Unless the grants are somehow undone by President Donald Trump, part of the money will help state agencies and nonprofit groups rebuild a 2.5-mile section of the highway with fencing and a series of culverts, or small underpasses, to allow red wolves — as well as black bears, white-tailed deer and other animals — to pass safely underneath traffic.
“When you build wildlife bridges or underpasses, you reduce human-wildlife conflict,” said Duke University ecologist Stuart Pimm, who studies wildlife migrations but is not directly involved in the project. “There is increasing awareness that reducing traffic collisions is smart for wildlife, smart for people too.”
Other agency grants will support new bridges and underpasses for mule deer in Idaho, pronghorn antelope in New Mexico, and cougars and bears in Oregon, among other projects.
But what’s notable about the U.S. 64 project is that the goal is twofold: reducing dangerous collisions and roadkill — and saving a critically endangered species. There are thought to be fewer than 20 red wolves left in the wild; besides Alligator River, the other remaining habitat is in the nearby Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.
Madison calculates that No. 2444 represented 7% of the known wild red wolf population. “So, every time you get a mortality, that’s a significant hit,” he said.
Reducing roadkill — and saving a species?
Wildlife crossings have proliferated across the U.S. in the past 20 years with broad nonpartisan support. Most often, the objective is safety. One congressional report estimated that dangerous highway collisions with large animals kill hundreds of people and cost more than $8 billion each year.
Researchers have learned a lot about what works for different species.
“Pronghorn don’t want to go through tunnels or close spaces, so they avoid underpasses and need bridges,” said Arthur Middleton, an ecologist who studies animal migration at the University of California, Berkeley. “Whereas deer will go under or over.” Gray wolves and coyotes — and, presumably, red wolves — will also use underpasses, or culverts, of 6 or 8 feet in diameter. Fencing is critical to funnel the animals to the structures.
Along U.S. 30 in Wyoming, seven small underpasses and fencing cut mule deer collisions by 81%. In Canada, a series of overpasses and underpasses along the Trans-Canada Highway in Banff National Park reduced collisions with hooved animals by 94%.
But whether wildlife crossings can help prevent extinctions is a harder question to answer.
“Conservation was always a part of the story, but now we’re
seeing crossings increasingly pop up that have conservation as a primary rationale,” said Ben Goldfarb, author of the book “Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of Our Planet.”
Some of the most ambitious crossings for conservation have just been built — and it will take time to assess the results.
Outside Los Angeles, a wildlife crossing over 10 lanes of U.S. 101 is expected to open in 2026.
The primary aim is to help connect the habitat of mountain lions, which need to cross the freeway to find suitable mates. Inbreeding among mountain lions in the LA region has already led to genetic mutations and decreased fertility.
In Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro state, construction of a wildlife bridge spanning BR 101 was finished in 2020, then native seedlings were planted in a soil bed.
Once those trees mature, researchers will study if the target species — an endangered monkey called a golden lion tamarin — uses the bridge regularly. Experts say the trees are necessary for creatures like monkeys or
sloths to move across the bridge. Species that scamper on the ground, including foxes, anteaters and armadillos, are already crossing.
Hope at the end of the tunnel underpass for red wolves?
While it’s not certain that a wildlife crossing can save the last red wolves, scientists say that doing nothing will almost certainly hasten their demise.
Canis rufus, often called “America’s wolf,” once roamed from central Texas to southern Iowa and as far east as Long Island, New York. After being declared extinct in the wild, red wolves were reintroduced in North Carolina in 1987.
For about 20 years, the population grew steadily to reach around 120 animals. Then their numbers crashed — with vehicle collisions a primary culprit. One study found that vehicle strikes had killed about 5% of the red wolf population each year between their reintroduction and 2022.
Marcel P. Huijser, a study
co-author and a research ecologist at Montana State University’s Western Transportation Institute, warned that the cost of doing nothing, “including losing a wild species, can be far higher than the cost of implementing effective mitigation.”
In North Carolina, Fish and Wildlife biologists have tried other measures to prevent crashes — like flashing road signs and reflective collars — without much success.
Following No. 2444’s death, conservation groups like the Wildlands Network and the Center for Biological Diversity pushed for another solution.
In September, the North Carolina Department of Transportation submitted a grant application for the Red Wolf Essential Survival Crossings Under Evacuation Route — or RESCUER — project.
Plans for the U.S. 64 wildlife crossing call for a series of underpass structures — several of them big enough for wolves and other large mammals to pass through — and the accompanying fencing. The exact number and size of the underpasses
has yet to be determined, said Travis W. Wilson, eastern habitat conservation coordinator for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
The estimated total cost for the project is about $31.5 million, including $4 million in private donations raised by conservation groups and an anonymous donor’s matching grant.
“This is one of the most important wildlife connectivity projects in the country,” said Beth Pratt, founder of the nonprofit The Wildlife Crossing Fund, which raised funds for the project. “Critically endangered red wolves will disappear if we do nothing.”
The Associated Press’s Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. AP’s climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
North State Journal staff
HOKE WRESTLING fell short of a state dual team title and now prepares for the individual state tournament. Last week also saw several Bucks athletes announce their college plans on national signing day.
Wrestling
The Hoke County wrestling team fell in the state quarterfinals of the NCHSAA class 4A Dual Team Championships. The Bucks lost a tight match with No. 3 Laney, 35-33. Hoke’s wrestlers will now compete in the state individual championships which start this weekend.
Hoke wrestling earned plenty of honors, however. Coach Brandon Locklear was named Sandhills Conference coach of the year for both boys’ wrestling and
girls’ wrestling. The girls finished first in the conference, winning both the regular season and conference tournament championships. The boys finished second in the conference. On the boys’ side, Wayne Claiborne, Arthur Jones, Joseph Gaynor, Isaiah Johnson, Eli Harrelson, Timothy Holton and Tafari Parker were all named to the All-Conference team. For the girls, Azya Monroe, Sara Warren, Harley Hardin, Jianna Gomez, Miracle Lester, Kierra Rush, Jada Lebron, Zada English, Noelia Hipolito and Jayda Locklear earned All-Conference honors.
Signing day
Hoke County held signing day ceremonies for five student athletes who will continue their careers at the next level. Bucks
athletes signing their letters of intent last week included:
Brianna Harrell, who will play softball at North Carolina Wesleyan University, led Hoke in batting average and slugging last season.
Kalea Parker, who will play softball for Methodist University. Parker led the Bucks in RBIs and was second in hits and doubles.
Brandon Saunders, who signed with Averett University to play football, was a three-year starter at quarterback and finished second in the Sandhills Conference in passing yards and total yards as a senior.
Abigail Watts, who is headed to Claflin University to play volleyball, led the Bucks in aces and was among the leaders in kills, digs and hitting percentage.
Vallerie Nunez, who will play soccer at William Peace University, was a team captain last season.
Hoke County student athletes (L to R) Brianna Harrell, Kalea Parker, Brandon Saunders and Abigail Watts, Vallerie Nunez pose for a National Signing Day photo.
Hoke County, girls’ basketball
Shelby Burris is a senior on the Hoke County girls’ basketball team.
The Lady Bucks snapped a seven-game losing streak with a 58-53 road win at Southern Lee. The win allowed Hoke to match its best win total for a season since 2018. Burris led the way on the boards in the victory, pulling down 20 rebounds, including eight offensive rebounds. She also added two points, two assists, three steals and a blocked shot.
For the year, Burris is second on the team in rebounding and shooting percentage, third in steals and blocks and has been to the line more than any other Lady Buck.
Players would have to sit out longer if the rule is passed
By Eric Olson
The Associated Press
A PROPOSED rule change intended to discourage players from faking injuries that prompt unwarranted timeouts will be considered when the NCAA Football Rules Committee meets this month.
Feigning injuries, sometimes at the coach’s instruction, has become a tactic defenses use to slow down tempo offenses or as a way for an offense to avoid a delay of game penalty or get an extra timeout.
The American Football Coaches Association submitted
a proposal that would require a player who goes down on the field and receives medical attention to sit out the rest of that possession. Currently, the player must go out for one play before reentering.
“The American Football Coaches Association is acutely concerned about this,” AFCA executive director Craig Bohl said. “It goes against the grain of the betterment of our game and the ethics. We crafted this, we floated this, and it’s been received well. I’m sure there’ll be some pushback. Our point is give us something better if you don’t like it.”
The proposal has carveouts. A coach can use a charged timeout to get the player back on the field during the current possession. A player injured by a hit that re-
sults in a penalty would be exempt. Also, the one player on offense and one on defense with a green dot on his helmet, indicating he’s allowed to receive radio communication from the sideline, can reenter after one play.
Injuries perceived to be feigned became such a hot topic in the Southeastern Conference last season that commissioner Greg Sankey put out a November memo admonishing teams.
“As plainly as it can be stated: Stop any and all activity related to faking injuries to create timeouts,” he wrote.
The NCAA Football Rules Committee will meet the last week of February in Indianapolis, and the issue will be front and center. If the AFCA’s proposal passes and is approved in the spring by the Playing Rules
Oversight Panel, it would go into effect next season.
NCAA supervisor of officials Steve Shaw said Division I conference officiating coordinators gave their support during their annual meeting in Irving, Texas, last week. Shaw showed the coordinators a video montage of players feigning injuries, sometimes laughably so.
Shaw said anyone who doesn’t think fake injuries are a problem would change their opinion after watching the video.
“Eventually, you’re like, ‘This is awful. This is pitiful,’ “said Shaw, who doesn’t have plans to make the video public.
One of the clips shows a player with what appears to be a cramp.
“The trainer walks him out, and the guy has this huge grin
on his face,” Shaw said. “The trainer makes him lay down and he does the typical stretching his leg out. The trainer is grinning at him, and (the player) pops right back up and he’s up in the coaches’ grouping to go back into the game.”
Bohl said the biggest offenders are rotational players, like defensive linemen and running backs.
“They look over to the sideline and the coach is pointing down, and they fall down and another guy goes in,” Bohl said. “By having that player have to sit out a whole possession, a coach, the ones skirting the rules are going to look and say, ‘Do I really want to disadvantage my team by losing a rotational player?’”
Bohl said the AFCA proposal might not be perfect, but it should decrease the number of egregious instances of players faking injuries.
“The AFCA cannot stand by and look at the unethical behavior of what we’re doing in this aspect of our game,” he said.
“Ironman” and “Cousin Carl” headline the class of 2025
By Jenna Fryer The Associated Press
CHARLOTTE — One of the toughest drivers in NASCAR history joined one the most enigmatic drivers of the modern era as the newest inductees into the Hall of Fame in a star-studded ceremony.
Ricky Rudd, known as the “Ironman” for his 788 consecutive starts over a 32-year career, was feted for his grit. Following a crash the week before the Daytona 500, Rudd’s eyes were so swollen he used duct tape to keep them open so he
NFL Longtime NFL player, coach Jauron dies at 74
Chicago Longtime NFL player and coach Dick Jauron, who led the Chicago Bears to the playoffs and was voted AP coach of the year in 2001, died at 74. The Bears confirmed his death, which came one day before the Super Bowl. Jauron briefly served as an Eagles assistant to current Chiefs coach Andy Reid. Jauron was a two-sport standout at Yale before spending eight years as a defensive back in the NFL. Along with taking the Bears to the playoffs, he spent four seasons as the coach of the Bills. He retired from coaching in 2012.
Woods to play at Torrey Pines, first PGA event since July
San Diego Tiger Woods committed to playing the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines, returning to one of his favorite venues for his first PGA Tour start since the British Open last July. Woods will be playing 18 holes in competition for the first time since he had a microdiscectomy in September to alleviate pain down his legs, his sixth surgery on his lower back. He will also be playing just over a week after the loss of his mother, Kultida Woods, who died last Tuesday at age 80.
could race. In reality, it was injuries to his ribs that bothered him most.
“He had a job to do, and nothing was going to stop him,” said seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and fellow Hall of Famer Richard Petty. Rudd also didn’t stand down to anyone, and his ability to defend himself prevented many confrontations that might have happened during NASCAR’s rougher days.
“He’s a guy who demands respect and deserves to be in the Hall of Fame,” said fellow Hall of Famer Rusty Wallace. Also inducted was Carl Edwards, a popular driver who abruptly quit the sport after his second controversial loss of a Cup Series title.
Ohtani’s ex-interpreter sentenced to nearly 5 years in sports betting case
Santa Ana, Calif. The former interpreter for Japanese baseball star Shohei Ohtani has been sentenced to four years and nine months in prison. Ippei Mizuhara pleaded guilty last year to bank and tax fraud. He was accused of stealing nearly $17 million from the Los Angeles Dodgers player’s bank account to cover his gambling bets and debts. Prosecutors said Mizuhara never bet on baseball, and Ohtani was an unknowing victim of the scheme. The case stemmed from a broader probe of illegal sports bookmaking organizations in Southern California.
Sanders brings in Hall of Famer Faulk to coach running backs at Colorado
Denver Deion Sanders added another Pro Football Hall of Famer to his staff at Colorado by bringing in Marshall Faulk to oversee the running backs. Faulk becomes the third member of the Buffaloes’ coaching ranks to boast a gold jacket, joining Warren Sapp and, of course, Sanders. Sapp is the senior quality control analyst for the defense. Faulk will try to revamp a Colorado running game that’s been one of the worst in the nation the last two seasons. Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes are coming off a 9-4 season in which they earned a spot in the Alamo Bowl.
Edwards, always extremely popular, was tough to get a true read on during his career as many of his fellow competitors found him to be fake. Hall of Famer Tony Stewart, who beat Edwards on a tiebreaker for the 2011 championship, used to call Edwards “Eddie Haskell” for his penchant of being polite and friendly in front of cameras and fans, but not so nice to his fellow competitors. He lamented in his speech “the facade of reputation” and admitted he was “kind of being a douchebag,” in not being friends with his fellow competitors. Edwards said, “If I had been a little more mature, a little bit less self-centered, had a little more perspective ... we could have been more
than enemies on the racetrack.”
When Edwards lost a second title in 2016 and abruptly quit the sport — and literally vanished from the NASCAR community — he thought he’d never again be part of it.
“I left eight years ago, and I thought I was truly turning my back on this whole sport. I thought I was making a choice between this sport and my family,” Edwards said. “And you know, every prize has its price, and for me, the prize of my family was worth that price. What you’ve done here, though, is you’ve let me win both ways.”
“He had a real focus in his professional career, he is a real credit to our sport and he was a superstar,” said Hall of Fame
team owner Joe Gibbs, who Edwards drove for when he quit after the 2016 season finale. Edwards had been leading late when a questionable caution was thrown and Edwards was wrecked on the restart.
“I remember him sitting down and saying ‘Hey, Joe, I think it’s time for me to step away from racing,’” recalled Gibbs. “And I go, ‘What? Here’s a guy who is in his prime, and for him to say that, I think it was one of the more shocking things that happened to me in sports.” Also inducted was the late Ralph Moody, who was elected on the pioneer ballot. Dr. Dean Sicking, who is credited with creating the life-saving SAFER barrier following Dale Earnhardt Sr.’s 2001 death, was the Landmark Award winner for contribution to the sport, and retired motorsports writer Mike Harris of The Associated Press was honored as recipient of the 2025 Squier-Hall Award for NASCAR Media Excellence.
Feb. 12, 1934 – Feb. 5, 2025
Elizabeth Wilder “Tommie” Niven of Seven Lakes passed away peacefully at First Health Hospice and Palliative Care in West End on Wednesday, Feb. 5. She was 90.
Born Feb. 12, 1934, in Aberdeen, she was the daughter of the late Thomas Frank Wilder and Pearl Evans Wilder. She was retired as a typesetter at The News Journal in Raeford and an active member of West End United Methodist Church where she volunteered with the Bread of Life food program for shut-ins.
She was also preceded in death by her husband, William Thomas Niven; a son, Robin Keith Niven; a granddaughter, Heather Kathleen Niven; and her sister, Mary Wilder Biggerstaff.
She is survived by her son, William Thomas “Deuce” Niven, II and his wife, Amy of Tabor City; her daughter, Lori Wilder Niven of Myrtle Beach; grandchildren Elizabeth Godwin (Robbie), Anne Spivey, Thomas Niven, David Niven, and Gavin Niven; six greatgrandchildren; one great-greatgrandchild; and a special nephew, Mark Biggerstaff (Christine) of Davidsonville.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 15, at West End United Methodist Church, 4015 NC-73, West End, with a graveside service at 1 p.m. at Raeford Cemetery just off of Central Avenue (US 401 Business), Raeford.
Family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the time of service in the West End United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.
In lieu of flowers family asks that donations be considered to First Health Hospice, 150 Applecross Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374, firsthealth.org/ foundation-of-firsthealth/ make-a-donation; or Moore County Humane Society, PO Box 203, Southern Pines, NC 28388, moorehumane.org/givetoday.
May 10, 1935 – Feb. 4, 2025
Ms. Evelyn Marie Morris went to her Heavenly Home on Tuesday, February 04, 2025, at the age of 89. She was born on May 10, 1935, in Moore County, NC and was known as “Marie”.
She was preceded in death by her husband, William Bryant; brothers Tony and David Byrd; sisters Ezelle Garrison, Irene Scott, and Nancy Gawrecki. Marie retired after 30 years as a supervisor at Burlington Industries in Raeford. She loved gardening, fishing, and baseball. She loved spending time with her children and grandchildren. She was a very nurturing and caring Mother. She was a devoted Mother and grandmother.
She is survived by her Son, Keith Bryant (Sherry Bryant); Daughter, Kayla Shelvey; sister, Sue Whitley of West End, NC; grandchildren, Nicholas Bryant (Kimber Bryant); Sara Newman (Roger), and William Bryant; and three great-grandchildren.
A service will be held on Friday, February 07, 2025, at 2 p.m. in the Crumpler Funeral Home chapel, 131 Harris Avenue, Raeford NC, 28376 with Pastor Terry Dooley officiating.
Dec. 6, 1937 – Feb. 4, 2025
Mr. Robert Kenneth Currie, of Raeford, NC passed away on Tuesday, February 04, 2025, at the age of 87.
He was born in Hoke County, NC on December 06, 1937, to the late Bud and Francis Currie.
Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his brothers, Eddie, Bill, and Wayne; his only sister, Francis Hawkins; his grandson, Russell Jackson; his greatgranddaughter, Hannah Howard.
Robert was the owner and founder of Currie Forestry LLC of Raeford NC. He enjoyed spending time in the log woods with his sons and grandsons.
He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Ruth Currie; his children, Tim Currie, Annette Jackson, Gerald Currie and his wife, Wanda; his grandchildren, Neal and his wife, Nicole, Paige and her husband, Josh, Brandon, Shane, Sarah and her husband, Tony, and Allison and her husband, Billy; his greatgrandchildren, Skye, Aiden, Braden, Owen, Noah, Raelyn, Blake, Will, Brodie, and Luke; his brothers, Ralph, Tommy, and David; his company CEO, Kim; and his coworkers, Nancy and Callie.
A visitation will be held from 2-3 p.m. on Sunday, February 09, 2025, at Crumpler Funeral Home of Raeford.
A memorial service will follow at 3 p.m. with Pastor Andrew Sutton officiating.
Dec. 24, 1939 – Feb. 3, 2025
With his family by his side, John William Glisson, 85, of Raeford, North Carolina, slid into his divine race car and sped off to heaven on February 3, 2025. Born on December 24, 1939, John was a special Christmas gift to his proud parents, Kathleen McNeill Glisson and William Bright Glisson (both deceased), who adored him and raised him to be a reliable, strong, intelligent, caring, and adventurous person. His second passion in life—after his beloved wife of nearly 59 years, Alice Davis Glisson—was high-speed, door-to-door stock car racing on both short tracks and superspeedways.
After graduating from Hoke County High School, John joined the Army and was stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, and later in Korea. Following his honorable discharge, he worked at Burlington Industries, Knit-Away, and Kelly Springfield/Goodyear Tire. In retirement, he filled his days with vegetable gardening, riding his electric scooter around the yard until he either got stuck in the field or the battery died, and collecting and burning the endless pinecones shed by the 40-year-old trees surrounding his home.
Johnny met the love of his life, Alice, on April Fool’s Day 1966 at Steve’s Drive-In in Fayetteville. He bet one of his good friends a case of beer that he would “marry that girl.” Six weeks later, on May 14, they snuck away to Dillon, South Carolina, and were secretly married. But as we all know, you can’t keep secrets in a small town. When Alice arrived home before curfew that night, her parents were suspicious. A few days later, her father asked if she had “married that boy” and, answering his own question, said “you better tell your mama.” During their many happy years together, John and Alice traveled to exciting destinations, but one of their favorites was the Cayman Islands, where John developed a passion for scuba diving.
John and Alice couldn’t wait to start a family, and their children meant the world to them. Their daughter, Linda Glisson Clarkson (William Mitchell) of Norwalk, CT, and their son, John William Glisson II (Tabatha) of Princeton, NC, were helpful and sweet kids— until they became teenagers and tested his patience as often as they could.
John passed on his love of stock car racing to his daughter, Linda, who once joined him at a NASCAR driving school in Bristol, TN. They competed to see who was the faster driver on that high-banked, half-mile oval— you can guess who won. Instead of stock cars, his son John preferred motorcycles, which his father proudly taught him to ride and maintain. They also spent many afternoons target shooting at bullseyes, cans, and other creative targets John found around the house. John ensured his son was comfortable using all kinds of tools so he could confidently tackle DIY projects.
When she was still a toddler, John would push his granddaughter, Morgan Alexandra Glisson of Wilmington, NC, all around the yard in her shiny, red #8 race car—perhaps explaining her love of fast, sleek cars.
John had a soft spot for all critters and furry friends. He loved feeding the squirrels and birds, especially the cardinals and hummingbirds. Once, he even found a brown recluse spider living in the outside top corner of a window and named his new “pet” Fred. Fred stayed there for about a year until Alice decided it was time for him to find a new home. When his most recent feline companion appeared on the porch, John and the cat bonded instantly. He named her Allie, but when she was taken to the vet to be spayed, John learned that “she” was, in fact, a “he.” In true John Glisson fashion, when Alice suggested they needed a new name, John immediately replied, “HerBe, ’cause her be a boy.” John will always be remembered for his quick wit, wise and insightful advice, love of all animals, and his unwavering devotion to his family.
A graveside service for John was held on Thursday, February 6, 2025, at Antioch Presbyterian Church, 6583 Red Springs Rd., Red Springs, North Carolina. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made to First Health Hospice Foundation - 150 Applecross Rd. Pinehurst, NC 28374 or a favorite charity of your choice.
The Blowing Rock native was named “Most Mischievous Boy” by his high school
By Hillel Italie
Associated Press
NEW YORK — Tom Robbins, the novelist and prankster-philosopher who charmed and addled millions of readers with such screwball adventures as “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues” and “Jitterbug Perfume,” has died. He was 92. Robbins’ death was confirmed by his friend, the publishing executive Craig Popelars, who said the author died Sunday morning. Pronouncing himself blessed with “crazy wisdom,” Robbins published eight novels and the memoir “Tibetan Peach Pie” and looked fondly upon his world of deadpan absurdity, authorial commentary and zig zag story lines. No one had a wilder imagination, whether giving us a wayward heroine with elongated thumbs in “Cowgirls” or landing the corpse of Jesus in a makeshift zoo in “Another Roadside Attraction.” And no one told odder jokes on himself: Robbins once described his light, scratchy drawl as sounding “as if it’s been strained through Davy Crockett’s underwear.”
He could fathom almost anything except growing up. People magazine would label Robbins “the perennial flower child and wild blooming Peter Pan of American letters,” who “dips history’s pigtails in weird ink and splatters his graffiti over the face of modern fiction.”
A native of Blowing Rock, North Carolina who moved to Virginia and was named “Most Mischievous Boy” by his high school, Robbins could match any narrative in his books with one about his life. There was the time he had to see a proctologist and showed up wearing a duck mask. (The doctor and Robbins became friends). He liked to recall the food server in Texas who unbuttoned her top and revealed a faded autograph, his autograph.
Or that odd moment in the 1990s when the FBI sought clues to the Unabomber’s identity by reading Robbins’ novel “Still Life with Woodpecker.” Robbins would allege that two federal agents, both attractive women, were sent to interview him.
“The FBI is not stupid!” he liked to say. “They knew my weakness!”
He also managed to meet a few celebrities, thanks in part to the film adaptation of “Even Cowgirls,” which starred Uma Thurman and Keanu Reeves, and to appearances in such
movies as “Breakfast of Champions” and “Mrs. Parker and the Vicious Circle.” He wrote of being Debra Winger’s date to the 1991 Academy Awards ceremony and nearly killing himself at an Oscars after-party when — hoping to impress Al Pacino — he swallowed a glass of cologne. He had happier memories of checking into a hotel and being recognized by a young, pretty clerk, who raved about his work and ignored the man standing next to him, Neil Young.
In Robbins’ novels, the quest was all and he helped capture the wide open spirit of the 1960s in part because he knew the life so well. He dropped acid, hitchhiked coast to coast, traveled from Tanzania to the Himalayas and carried on with friends and strangers in ways he had no right to survive. He didn’t rely on topical references to mark time, but on understanding the era from the inside.
“Faulkner had his inbred Southern gothic freak show, Hemingway his European battlefields and cafes, Melville his New England with its tall ships,” he wrote in his memoir, published in 2014. “I had, it finally dawned on me, a cultural phenomenon such as the world had not quite seen before, has not seen since; a psychic upheaval, a paradigm shift, a widespread if ultimately unsustainable egalitarian leap in consciousness.
And it was all very up close and personal.”
His path to fiction writing had its own rambling, hallucinatory quality. He was a dropout from Washington and Lee University (Tom Wolfe was a classmate) who joined the Air Force because he didn’t know what else to do. He moved to the Pacific Northwest in the early ’60s and somehow was assigned to review an opera for the Seattle Times, becoming the first classical music critic to liken Rossini to Robert Mitchum. Robbins would soon find himself in a farcical meeting with conductor Milton Katims, making conversation by pretending he was working on his own libretto, “The Gypsy of Issaquah,” named for a Seattle suburb.
“You must admit it had an operatic ring,” Robbins insisted. By the late 1960s, publishers were hearing about his antics and thought he might have a book in him. A Doubleday editor met with Robbins and agreed to pay $2,500 for what became “Another Roadside Attraction.”
Published in 1971, Robbins’ debut novel sold little in hardcover despite praise from Graham Greene and Lawrence Ferlinghetti among others, but became a hit in paperback. “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues” came out in 1976 and eventually sold more than 1 million copies.
“Read solemnly, with expectations of conventional coherence, ‘Even Cowgirls Get the Blues’ will disappoint,” Thomas LeClair wrote in The New York Times. “Entered like a garage sale, poked through and picked over, ‘Cowgirls’ is entertaining and, like the rippled mirror over there by the lawn mower, often instructive. Tom Robbins is one of our best practitioners of high foolishness.” Domestic stability was another prolonged adventure; one ex-girlfriend complained “The trouble with you, Tom, is that you have too much fun.” He was married and divorced twice, and had three children, before settling down with his third wife, Alexa d’Avalon, who appeared in the film version of “Even Cowgirls Get the Blues.” Robbins’ other books included “Half Asleep in Frogs Pajamas,” “Fierce Invalids Home from Home Climates,” “Villa Incognito.” His honors included the Bumbershoot Golden Umbrella Award for Lifetime Achievement and being named by Writer’s Digest as among the 100 best authors of the 20th century. But he cherished no praise more than a letter received from an unnamed woman.
“Your books make me laugh, they make think, they make me horny,” his fan informed him, “and they make me aware of all the wonder in the world.”
A masked man gave the author life-threatening injuries in 2022
By Carolyn Thompson and Hillel Italie
The Associated Press
MAYVILLE, N.Y. — Salman
Rushdie described in graphic detail Tuesday the frenzied moments in 2022 when a masked man rushed at him on a stage in western New York and repeatedly slashed him with a knife, leaving him with life-threatening injuries.
The 77-year-old author addressed jurors on the second day of testimony at the trial of Hadi Matar, 27, who has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and assault in the attack. It was the first time since the attack that Rushdie found himself in the same room with the man accused of trying the kill him.
“I only saw him at the last minute,” Rushdie said. “I was aware of someone wearing black clothes, or dark clothes and a black face mask. I was very struck by his eyes, which were dark and seemed very ferocious.”
His wife, Rachel Eliza Griffiths, cried from her seat in the courtroom’s second row.
Rushdie was blinded in one eye in the attack and spent months recovering, a process he detailed in a memoir released last year. A speaker who was to appear with Rushdie also was wounded.
Jurors heard opening statements Monday, followed by testimony from staffers at the Chautauqua Institution, the nonprofit art and education center where the attack happened about 75 miles south of Buffalo.
Matar has been in custody since he was subdued by spectators after the attack.
The trial is expected to last up to two weeks.
which some Muslims consider blasphemous.
Schmidt has said discussing Matar’s motive will be unnecessary in the state trial, given the attack was seen by a live audience that was expecting to hear Rushdie present a lecture on keeping writers safe.
“This is not a case of mistaken identity,” Schmidt said during opening statements Monday. “Mr. Matar is the person who attacked Mr. Rushdie without provocation.”
A public defender representing Matar told jurors that the case is not as straightforward as prosecutors have made it out to be.
“The elements of the crime are more than ‘something really bad happened’ — they’re more defined,” Lynn Schaffer said.
“But I saw a large quantity of blood pouring onto my clothes,” he said. “He was hitting me repeatedly. Hitting and slashing.”
Rushdie said he was struck more times in his chest and torso and stabbed in his chest as he struggled to get away.
Rushdie said he first thought his knife-wielding attacker was striking him with a fist.
While lying on the stage, he recalled “a sense of great pain and shock, and aware of the fact that there was an enormous quantity of blood that I was lying in.”
“It occurred to me that I was dying. That was my predominant thought,” he said.
“I was very badly injured. I couldn’t stand up any more. I fell down,” he said.
Jurors are unlikely to hear about a fatwa issued by the late Iranian leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini calling for Rushdie’s death, according to District Attorney Jason Schmidt.
Rushdie, the author of “Midnight’s Children” and “Victory City,” spent years in hiding after Khomeini announced the fatwa in 1989 following publication of the novel “The Satanic Verses,”
The case has been followed closely by true crime fans
By Michael Casey
The Associated Press
BOSTON — Massachusetts’ top court ruled Tuesday that Karen Read can be retried on all the same charges in the death of her Boston police officer boyfriend, the latest twist in the long-running case that transfixed true crime fans nationwide.
Prosecutors have sought to retry Read this year on charges of second-degree murder, manslaughter and leaving the scene of a crime. They accused her of ramming into John O’Keefe with her SUV and leaving him to die in a snowstorm in January 2022. Read’s attorneys argue she was framed to protect other law enforcement officers involved in O’Keefe’s death.
A judge declared a mistrial in June after finding jurors couldn’t reach an agreement, without polling the jurors to confirm their conclusions.
Read’s attorney Martin Weinberg argued that five jurors later said they were deadlocked
only on the manslaughter count, and had unanimously agreed in the jury room that she wasn’t guilty on the charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. But they hadn’t told the judge.
The ruling from the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court clears the way for a new trial on all three charges.
“The jury clearly stated during deliberations that they had not reached a unanimous verdict on any of the charges and could not do so. Only after being discharged did some individual jurors communicate a different supposed outcome, contradicting their prior notes,” the judges wrote. “Such posttrial disclosures cannot retroactively alter the trial’s outcome —either to acquit or to convict.”
The judges also found “no abuse of discretion” in Judge Beverly Cannone’s decision to declare a mistrial.
“After extensive, multiday deliberations, the jury submitted several increasingly emphatic notes about their inability to reach a unanimous verdict,” they wrote, adding that the record before the judge “suggested complete deadlock.”
Read’s lawyer said they’re considering their legal options.
“While we have great respect for the Commonwealth’s highest court, Double Jeopardy is a federal constitutional right,” Weinberg said in a statement. “We are strongly considering whether to seek federal habeas relief from what we continue to contend are violations of Ms. Read’s federally guaranteed constitutional rights.” Weinberg had urged the
Karen Read and her defense team and the prosecution filed motions in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham, Massachusetts, in November.
“Something bad did happen, something very bad did happen, but the district attorney has to prove much more than that.”
In a separate indictment, federal authorities allege Matar was driven to act by a terrorist organization’s 2006 endorsement of the fatwa. A later trial on federal terrorism charges will be scheduled in U.S. District Court in Buffalo.
The judges questioned Weinberg over the the merits for holding an inquiry. Associate Justice Frank Gaziano noted that such inquiries are usually reserved for “extraneous information” such as “racisms in the jury room.” Chief Justice Kimberly Budd wondered about the limits of allowing an inquiry, which she suggested could open the door for other defendants to argue a juror came to them to say “that’s not really what happened.” Cannone ruled in August that Read could be retried on all three charges.
“Where there was no verdict announced in open court here, retrial of the defendant does not violate the principle of double jeopardy,” Cannone said.
court to allow an a evidentiary hearing where jurors could be asked whether they had reached final not guilty verdicts on any of the charges. Prosecutors maintained there’s no basis for dismissing the charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. They argued that her lawyers should have sensed a mistrial was “inevitable or unavoidable” and that they had every opportunity to be heard in the trial courtroom.
Prosecutors said Read, a former adjunct professor at Bentley College, and O’Keefe, a 16 -ye ar member of the Boston police, had been drinking heavily before she dropped him off at a party at the home of Brian Albert, a fellow Boston officer. They said she hit him with her SUV before driving away. An autopsy found O’Keefe had died of hypothermia and blunt force trauma.
The defense portrayed Read as the victim, saying O’Keefe was actually killed inside Albert’s home and then dragged outside. They argued that investigators focused on Read because she was a “convenient outsider” who saved them from having to consider law enforcement officers as suspects.
momentary hint of summer
North Carolina residents would be forgiven for being confused about the weather trends lately, but boaters on Jordan Lake made the most of a sunny, warm day last Tuesday. It didn’t last long, with rain and colder temps back on the menu this week.
U.S. inflation worsened in January with grocery, gas prices rising Washington, D.C.
U.S. inflation accelerated last month as the cost of groceries, gas and used cars rose, a trend that will likely underscore the Federal Reserve’s resolve to delay any further interest rate cuts. The consumer price index increased 3% in January from a year ago, Wednesday’s report from the Labor Department showed, up from 2.9% the previous month. It has increased from a 31/2-year low of 2.4% in September. The figures underscore the stickiness of inflation.
UnitedHealthcare
fined $3.4M by N.C. for claims violations
Raleigh Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey fined UnitedHealthcare
$3.4 million following a fouryear investigation into the company’s claims handling practices involving balance billing. The investigation found instances where UnitedHealthcare failed to follow its procedures to protect members from excess charges by out-of-network providers, particularly for emergency room and anesthesia services. While accepting the settlement, UnitedHealthcare denied violating any regulations. The company must provide a corrective action plan and submit to future compliance examinations. The fine will benefit North Carolina public schools.
The current plan calls for a new school to be built on a new site with a core capacity of 600
By Ryan Henkel North State Journal
CARTHAGE — Follow-
ing its public hearing regarding plans for a new Carthage Elementary School, the Moore County Schools Board of Education has begun to get the process underway.
At the Feb. 10 meeting, the board approved the submission of an RFP for a real estate firm/agent services as it relates to the planned construction of the new Carthage Elementary School.
“The feedback that we received overwhelmingly supported the recommendation for a new Carthage Elementary School on a new site with a core capacity of 600, which led us to this recommendation today,”
said Assistant Superintendent Jenny Purvis.
According to the RFP, the board is looking specifically for applicants who have real estate experience not only in Moore County but also experience providing real estate services to public school districts of similar size to Moore County Schools.
“This is the first long-overdue step of getting our construction back on track,” said board member David Hensley.
The board also approved updates to the Moore County Schools High School Course Guide.
“We always do a high school course guide in order to help guide our students and families in making the best selection,” said Director of Curriculum and Instruction Donna Gephart. “This is a comprehensive academic guide which our counselors use to sit down with our students to ensure that they are taking courses that they are indeed interested in and allows
“This
is the first long-overdue step of getting our construction back on track.”
David Hensley,
board member
them with multiple opportunities to ensure that they are moving forward in their high school career.”
Updates included revisions to a few arts education courses, namely vocal music, orchestra and band, in order to subdivide it from four into five distinct levels per state requirements: novice, developing, intermediate, accomplished and advanced. According to Gephart, these changes are in names only.
There were also a few updates to the district’s CTE program, namely the removal of the Financial Planning course due to curriculum overlap with
the Economics and Personal Finance, which is a required social studies course; the addition of Family and Consumer Science – Hospitality and Tourism I and II at Pinecrest High School; and the inclusion of JROTC in the CTE framework in order to allow students in level III to have a credentialing experience if they so choose. Additional updates include changing the Bible as History from a social studies course to an English elective course and the addition of a leadership development course at Pinecrest and Union Pines for grades 10 -12.
The board also approved an extracurricular activities list as it pertains to the newly added arts education proficiency diploma endorsement.
To receive the endorsement, a student must have completed four arts courses, must have and maintain at least a “B” in each of those courses and must
An Outer Banks wildlife crossing will save people; can it save the last wild red wolves
A federal pilot program will build a 2.5-mile underpass for animals
By Allen G. Breed and Christina Larson The Associated Press
ALLIGATOR RIVER NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE — Hunters were once the greatest human threat to the country’s only unique wolf species. Today, it’s motorists. That fact was brought home last June when red wolf breeding male No. 2444 was struck and killed on U.S. 64 near Manns Harbor,. His death likely meant five pups he’d been providing for died, too.
too?
“We were hoping the mother would return and resume care, but she never did,” Joe Madison, head of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s red wolf recovery program, said during a recent visit to the site.
For decades, conservationists have pushed for changes to U.S. 64, a busy two-lane highway to the popular Outer Banks that runs straight through the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge — one of just two places in the world where red wolves run free. They may finally be getting their wish.
In late December, the Federal Highway Administration
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THURSDAY
Stretch of I-40 that collapsed during Helene to reopen by March 1
It was hoped to open in January, but then more roadway collapsed
The Associated Press
WAYNESVILLE — A section of Interstate 40 in western North Carolina that collapsed during Hurricane Helene’s historic flooding will reopen to traffic by March 1, Gov. Josh Stein announced Monday while visiting the roadway’s shuttered portion and meeting with U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
The primary road connection between North Carolina and eastern Tennessee was severed in late September as flooding in the Pigeon River gorge washed away over 1 mile of I-40’s eastbound lanes.
An effort to reopen a 20-mile stretch to the Tennessee line in early January got held up when more asphalt from eastbound lanes fell in mid-December. The department attributed the December slide to wet weather and freeze-thaw conditions.
Here’s a quick look at what’s coming up in and around Moore County:
Cosmic Bowling
6-11:55 p.m.
Enjoy a night of Family Fun at Sandhills Bowling Center. Cosmic Bowling is just $17 per person and includes two hours of bowling and free shoe rental.
Sandhills Bowling Center 1680 N.C. Highway 5 Aberdeen
We stand corrected
To report an error or a suspected error, please email: corrections@nsjonline.com with “Correction request” in the subject line.
CRIME LOG
Feb. 4
• Lakishia Denise Allison, 48, was arrested by MCSO for driving while license revoked.
Feb. 5
• Christopher Lee Bibey, 47, was arrested by Pinehurst PD for child support violation.
Feb. 6
• Donald Wayne English, 41, was arrested by MCSO for possession of firearm by felon.
• Anderson Lee McLaughlin, 72, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for possession of marijuana up to 1/2 oz.
Feb. 7
• Carla Shante Maddox, 47, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for forgery of endorsement.
Feb. 8
• Terrell Cornelius Hart, 30, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for possession of controlled substance on prison/jail premises.
• Nicole Marie Sink, 36, was arrested by MCSO for possession of stolen motor vehicle.
• Antonio Marqui Taylor, 39, was arrested by MCSO for possession of firearm by felon.
Feb. 9
• Calvin Jamale Roper, 34, was arrested by Southern Pines PD for misdemeanor domestic violence.
• Trent Allen Stimmerman, 32, was arrested by Aberdeen PD for assault on a female.
Feb. 10
• Terry Lee Hyde, 28, was arrested by MCSO for interfering with emergency communication.
Along a portion of the displaced four-lane road, Stein announced a rescheduled date for one lane going in each direction to reopen to traffic at a reduced speed, news outlets reported.
“I am pleased to announce that we will reopen two lanes of I-40 by March 1,” Stein said in a news release that highlighted the efforts of road workers and the state Department of Transportation. “Reopening these lanes will help reconnect North Carolina and Tennessee and allow us to welcome back visi-
“Reopening these lanes will help reconnect North Carolina and Tennessee and allow us to welcome back visitors to bolster the economy.”
NC Gov. Josh Stein
tors to bolster the economy.”
Contractors have worked to stabilize what’s left of the road by driving long steel rods into bedrock below the road, filling them with grout and spraying concrete on the cliff face to hold them in place.
Hurricane Helene and its resulting destruction damaged or impacted 5,000 miles of state-maintained roads and
Education Department rescinds Biden memo that threatened to upend college NIL payments
The policy would have made the payments subject to Title IX rules
The Associated Press
WASHINGTON, D.C. —
The U.S. Education Department is scrapping a policy from the Biden administration that threatened to upend colleges’ plans to pay athletes for their name, imagine and likeness by making those payments subject to federal Title IX rules.
President Donald Trump’s
education officials announced the change Wednesday, saying the policy from former President Joe Biden’s final days in office had no legal basis under Title IX, the 1972 law forbidding sex discrimination in education.
“The NIL guidance, rammed through by the Biden Administration in its final days, is overly burdensome, profoundly unfair and it goes well beyond what agency guidance is intended to achieve,” said Craig Trainor, acting assistant secretary for civil rights.
damaged 7,000 private roads, bridges and culverts. The state is anticipated for now to receive about $3.2 billion from the Federal Highway Administration in emergency relief, according to a recent presentation for General Assembly members from state storm recovery officials.
Stein visited the area to meet with Duffy, who also toured the damaged roadway with U.S. Sens. Thom Tillis and Ted Budd and Reps. Chuck Edwards and Tim Moore, all Republicans. In his release, Stein said he expressed to Duffy his appreciation for the U.S. Transportation Department’s efforts and “emphasized that there are billions of dollars of work still to do to get people safely back on the roads. ... It is clear to me that he intends to help.”
A Jan. 16 memo from the Biden administration told universities that NIL payments must be treated the same as athletic financial aid such as scholarships.
Many universities have publicly said the majority of their NIL payments would go to football and men’s basketball players under the terms of a House settlement that’s expected to be approved this spring. That threatened to run afoul of the Biden policy, which said NIL payments “must be made proportionately available to male and female athletes.”
Trump’s education officials said such a sweeping change would require “clear legal authority” that does not exist.
“Enacted over 50 years ago, Title IX says nothing about how revenue-generating athletics programs should allocate compensation among student athletes,” Trainor said.
Sunrise Theater: “Becoming Led Zeppelin” 7-9 p.m.
The film explores the origins of this iconic group and their meteoric rise in just one year against all the odds. Powered by awe-inspiring, psychedelic, never-before-seen footage, performances and music, Bernard MacMahon’s experiential cinematic odyssey explores Led Zeppelin’s creative, musical and personal origin story.
Sunrise Theater 250 NW Broad St. Southern Pines
Moore County Historical Association: Shaw House & Property Tours
1-4 p.m.
The Moore County Historical Association’s Shaw House grounds and properties are open for tours on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 1-4 p.m. The tours are free and open to all ages. Enjoy learning of the impressive history here in Moore County. Shaw House 110 Morganton Road Southern Pines
EDUCATION from page A1
complete 40 extracurricular hours of arts related activities done after school hours (students cannot receive a grade for these activities). According to Gephart, those hours can be spread over a student’s four-year high school career. Approved activities — which relate to either music, dance, theatre and/or visual arts — range from attending pertinent events and performances to club activities, auditions and clinics and personal performances/exhibits.
“I think it’s a rigorous expectation, and I really applaud the effort to get our students in the community and performing in the arts,” said board chair Robin Calcutt. “I’m just so blown away every year by the talent of our students, and I just think it’s a great idea.”
The Moore County Schools Board of Education will next meet March 10.
Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor
President Trump’s action is a major step forward to ensure a level playing field for female athletes.
IT WAS A packed week back in Washington.
Since Donald Trump took the oath of office on Jan. 20, you’ve seen the president work at a feverish pace to deliver on the promises made to you and start fixing the problems that were created during four years of a failed Biden-Harris agenda. Trump has been working not only in the executive branch but also working with me and my Republican colleagues in the House and Senate. Together, we’re sending a clear message: The return to commonsense policies is here.
Just last week, on National Girls and Women in Sports Day, Trump signed the “No Men in Women’s Sports” Executive Order, fulfilling his promise to keep biological men out of women and girls’ sports. For years, the Far Left has pushed a woke agenda and gender ideology onto women and girls’ sports, and it’s gone too far. Hardworking female athletes who have trained their whole lives to achieve their dreams have been forced to compete against biological men, often losing out on medals, scholarship funds and spots on teams.
This is unfair, wrong and dangerous.
Trump’s action is a major step forward to ensure a level playing field and equal opportunities for female athletes across our country. It also reaffirms Republicans’ commitment to advancing legislation that restores fairness, safety and integrity in women’s sports, like the
Speaking of neighbors, I love mine.
“HAPPINESS IS PRETTY SIMPLE; someone to love, something to do and something to look forward to” ― Rita Mae Brown Brown also said, “One of the keys to happiness is having a bad memory,” but that is a subject for another day. It is Valentine’s Day, so let’s throw some love.
I love the traffic circle. I know, I know, but it is one of the distinguishing characteristics of our beautiful community. The circle makes you stop, be present, be alert, be patient with your fellow travelers and polite to the drivers on your right and left. Commuters understand that they are passing through a special place. It is beautiful in every season, thanks to the attention of the ground crews, displaying a pride of place that welcomes us home.
The Food Lion, stepsister to the up-scale purveyors in the Sandhills, is great. No Starbucks, no dining, no farro or caviar, that’s OK. The service is amazing. Every stocker and cashier has a smile and a greeting for each customer, and they are patient with those who must count their pennies to purchase a meal. I love that.
I look forward to reading our local and state newspapers. Each week, we can take the pulse of our community between the lines. We can feel the beat of our economy in the ads and advertising invested in the Sandhills. Engaging in local politics is a healthy exercise that can warm our hearts and cool our jets. Our legacy and grassroots media sources support our local businesses, boost our sports teams and write our obituaries, tacking us to our neighbor’s activities.
Speaking of neighbors, I love mine. Some I rarely see, but I know where to find them. Knock out the power grid, threaten a snowstorm and watch the neighbors swing into action. Do you have a generator? Is your freezer working? Need some firewood? Would you like some soup? This seems to be the universal condition with good people in good places. We mind our own business most days, but watch what happens when your dog is missing or a fire truck comes down your street.
Fire truck! Send some love to Fire Marshall Bryan Phillips, Sheriff Ronnie Fields and the teams they supervise on our behalf. They serve our community with great dedication and professional ability. Thank you. Thanks also
Protection of Women and Girls in Sports Act, which the House passed in January. Under Trump’s leadership, I will continue working alongside my Republican colleagues to codify these protections permanently and ensure biological men do not steal one more trophy from our female athletes.
One of the many promises made to you was to advance policies that will make America safe again, and our House Republican majority is delivering.
For years, deadly fentanyl has been smuggled across our borders and into our communities in record amounts, killing innocent Americans as a result. Too many lives are on the line, and the House took critical steps to protect them last week by passing the HALT Fentanyl Act with bipartisan support. I was proud to join my colleagues in introducing and voting for this legislation, which will give law enforcement the tools needed to prosecute traffickers and keep this lethal drug off our streets.
It is a new era of strong, America First leadership. As your voice in Congress, I will continue to advance commonsense policies that will protect you, your family and our communities. There is a lot of work to do and little time to do it, but rest assured I am committed to delivering for you.
Richard Hudson represents North Carolina’s 9th Congressional District in Washington, D.C.
to Mickey Foster, CEO of First Health of the Carolinas, and the Foundation of First Health. Their generosity and vision have gifted us with the Reed Heart Center, Clara McLean House, the Cancer Center and Building the Dream. Many of us believe we are living the dream.
I love our schools. Education has taken some hard knocks in recent years. School boards are the front line, taking heat from every direction. But Moore County has managed to build beautiful institutions that are sensitive to the neighborhoods they serve.
They are inspiring.
Our students and teachers continue to be challenged by external forces and internal reviews, but our students manage to thrive. Sandhills Community College sets a very high bar for excellence and relevance in this and surrounding counties. Sandy Stewart has quickly found his footing at the helm of our public institutions and partners well with our many private academies. The Cooperative Innovative High School on the SCC campus signifies devotion to expanding the opportunities for skilled workers and vocational development.
It’s a brave new world.
I look forward to attending The Village Chapel, the first interdenominational church in the United States. All are welcome. The Chapel is one of the many silent partners in our community that make us such a special place. If you rise early, you can partake in communion at 8 a.m. every Sunday and still make your tee time. Families show up for a rowdy service which includes an interactive children’s sermon at 9:30 a.m. For the more reverent, there is a full-on formal service at 11 a.m.
A big hug for the pastor who preaches three sermons on Sunday and keeps it real. Blessings to all the churches and organizations that keep the lights on at the Ark, The Food Bank, The Coalition and the other hundred agencies that make Moore County more.
“Someone to love, something to do, something to look forward to …”
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Connie Lovell lives in Pinehurst.
awarded the first grants under a new $125 million Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program. Unless the grants are somehow undone by President Donald Trump, part of the money will help state agencies and nonprofit groups rebuild a 2.5-mile section of the highway with fencing and a series of culverts, or small underpasses, to allow red wolves — as well as black bears, white-tailed deer and other animals — to pass safely underneath traffic.
“When you build wildlife bridges or underpasses, you reduce human-wildlife conflict,” said Duke University ecologist Stuart Pimm, who studies wildlife migrations but is not directly involved in the project.
“There is increasing awareness that reducing traffic collisions is smart for wildlife, smart for people too.”
Other agency grants will support new bridges and underpasses for mule deer in Idaho, pronghorn antelope in New Mexico, and cougars and bears in Oregon, among other projects.
But what’s notable about the U.S. 64 project is that the goal is twofold: reducing dangerous collisions and roadkill — and saving a critically endangered species. There are thought to be fewer than 20 red wolves left in the wild; besides Alligator River, the other remaining habitat is in the nearby Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge.
Madison calculates that No. 2444 represented 7% of the known wild red wolf population. “So, every time you get a mortality, that’s a significant hit,” he said.
Reducing roadkill — and saving a species?
Wildlife crossings have proliferated across the U.S. in the past 20 years with broad nonpartisan support. Most often, the objective is safety. One congressional report estimated that dangerous highway collisions with large animals kill hundreds of people and cost more than $8 billion each year.
Researchers have learned a lot about what works for different species.
“Pronghorn don’t want to go through tunnels or close spaces, so they avoid underpasses and need bridges,” said Arthur Middleton, an ecologist who studies animal migration at the University of California, Berkeley. “Whereas deer will go under or over.”
Gray wolves and coyotes — and, presumably, red wolves — will also use underpasses, or culverts, of 6 or 8 feet in diameter. Fencing is critical to funnel the animals to the structures.
Along U.S. 30 in Wyoming, seven small underpasses and fencing cut mule deer collisions by 81%. In Canada, a series of overpasses and underpasses along the Trans-Canada Highway in Banff National Park reduced collisions with hooved animals by 94%.
But whether wildlife crossings can help prevent extinctions is a harder question to answer.
“Conservation was always a part of the story, but now we’re seeing crossings increasingly pop up that have conservation as a primary rationale,” said Ben Goldfarb, author of the book “Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of Our Planet.”
Some of the most ambitious crossings for conservation have just been built — and it will take time to assess the results.
Outside Los Angeles, a wildlife crossing over 10 lanes of U.S. 101 is expected to open in 2026. The primary aim is to help connect the habitat of mountain lions, which need to cross the freeway to find suitable mates. Inbreeding among mountain lions in the LA region has already led to genetic mutations and decreased fertility.
In Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro state, construction of a wildlife bridge spanning BR 101 was finished in 2020, then native seedlings were planted in a soil bed. Once those trees mature, researchers will study if
the target species — an endangered monkey called a golden lion tamarin — uses the bridge regularly. Experts say the trees are necessary for creatures like monkeys or sloths to move across the bridge. Species that scamper on the ground, including foxes, anteaters and armadillos, are already crossing.
Hope at the end of the tunnel underpass for red wolves?
While it’s not certain that a wildlife crossing can save the last red wolves, scientists say that doing nothing will almost certainly hasten their demise.
Canis rufus, often called “America’s wolf,” once roamed from central Texas to southern Iowa and as far east as Long Island, New York. After being declared extinct in the wild, red wolves were reintroduced in North Carolina in 1987.
For about 20 years, the population grew steadily to reach around 120 animals. Then their numbers crashed — with vehicle collisions a primary culprit. One study found that vehicle strikes had killed about
5% of the red wolf population each year between their reintroduction and 2022.
Marcel P. Huijser, a study co-author and a research ecologist at Montana State University’s Western Transportation Institute, warned that the cost of doing nothing, “including losing a wild species, can be far higher than the cost of implementing effective mitigation.”
In North Carolina, Fish and Wildlife biologists have tried other measures to prevent crashes — like flashing road signs and reflective collars — without much success.
Following No. 2444’s death, conservation groups like the Wildlands Network and the Center for Biological Diversity pushed for another solution.
In September, the North Carolina Department of Transportation submitted a grant application for the Red Wolf Essential Survival Crossings Under Evacuation Route — or RESCUER — project.
Plans for the U.S. 64 wildlife crossing call for a series of underpass structures — several of them big enough for wolves and other large mammals to pass through — and the accompa-
nying fencing. The exact number and size of the underpasses has yet to be determined, said Travis W. Wilson, eastern habitat conservation coordinator for the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission.
The estimated total cost for the project is about $31.5 million, including $4 million in private donations raised by conservation groups and an anonymous donor’s matching grant.
“This is one of the most important wildlife connectivity projects in the country,” said Beth Pratt, founder of the nonprofit The Wildlife Crossing Fund, which raised funds for the project. “Critically endangered red wolves will disappear if we do nothing.”
The Associated Press’s Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. AP’s climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
North State Journal Staff
WRESTLING AND swimming both held their state championships last week, and Moore County had plenty of representation in both. Here’s a look at North Carolina’s best from the county.
Wrestling
The Union Pines wrestling team won the NCHSAA 3A Dual Team Championships, bringing home the first dual team wrestling title in school history. The victory came in the Vikings’ fourth consecutive trip to the championship match.
Union Pines won the first seven matches of the day and rolled to a 47-17 win over Pisgah in Greensboro to bring home the banner.
Evan Thompson opened the scoring with an 8-5 win at 144 pounds. Jacob De La Torre then recorded a 7-6 victory at 150. Finnius McCafferty pinned his opponent at 157 in a time of
3:10. Tripp Sullivan won 16-1 at 165 and Dominic Blue recorded a 22-6 victory at 175. After Dantrell Williams pinned his 190-pound opponent at 3:03 and Brock Sullivan recorded a 4-2 win a 215, Union Pines led 31-0.
After Pisgah recorded a win to avoid a shutout, Liam Myles got a 14-10 victory at 106. The Vikings swept the final three matches to close out strong, with Keaton Crawford winning 15-0 at 126, Joseph Lloyd 16-0 at 132 and Jose Salinas 7-1 at 138.
Sullivan was named Most Outstanding Wrestler at the championships, and Williams won the sportsmanship award.
Swimming
The state swimming and diving championships also took place last week, and two area schools competed. In the NCHSAA class 3A championships at North Davidson, the Union Pines girls’ team
finished ninth, with 97 points. The boys were 23rd with 30.
The relay team of Ava Milkowich, Claire Weld, Rebecca Kangas and Nyah Tranel finished fifth in the 200 medley and sixth in the 400 free relay.
Milkowich also finished sixth in the 100 backstroke and seventh in the 100 butterfly. Weld was fifth in the 100 breast and 16th in the 100 free. Riley Elwell placed 14th in the 100 breast.
For the boys, Ian Hicks finished fifth in the 100 breast and 13th in the 200 IM. The team of Andrew Davis, Logan Glaubitz, Aiden Simmons and Hicks finished 11th in the 200 free relay.
In the class 4A competition, also at North Davidson, the Pinecrest boys finished 29th with 19 points, while the girls were 47th, with one point.
Grant Larsen finished fifth in the 50 free and 13th in the 100 free.
Lily Grieve earned the girls’ team’s point, finishing 16th in the 100 fly.
Brock Sullivan is a senior for the Union Pines wrestling team.
The Vikings won the state dual team championship for class 3A with a 47-17 win over Pisgah. Sullivan recorded a 4-2 win at 215 pounds to cap off seven straight Union Pines wins to open the match. For his effort, Sullivan, who won an individual state championship last year, was named Most Outstanding Wrestler.
Arrests in luxury home burglaries targeting NFL, NBA players ‘tip of the iceberg,’ officials say
Thieves linked to South American gangs are behind the sophisticated heists
By John Seewer and Dave Collins
The Associated Press
FOR MONTHS, daring bands of thieves linked to South American gangs have been making off with piles of jewelry and cash from the homes of the biggest superstars in sports, targeting the likes of the NFL’s Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce.
Sophisticated pillagers have deployed drones and signal jamming devices, sometimes posing as delivery drivers or maintenance workers, to gain access to gated neighborhoods and thwart home security systems, according to warnings issued by the NFL and NBA.
But in recent weeks, investigators across the U.S. have made a handful of arrests connected to at least one of the high-profile heists and discovered stolen sports memorabilia, jewelry and art stuffed into storage units in New Jersey.
A group of Chilean men stopped in January while driving in Ohio were charged with stealing nearly $300,000 worth of designer luggage, watches and jewelry from Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow’s house. Photos showed one suspect wearing a sparkly necklace with Burrow’s jersey number that he had worn during interviews.
“These individuals seem to be the alleged tip of the iceberg,” said Kenneth Parker, the U.S. Attorney in southern Ohio, who believes the men are working with South American theft
rings that for years have been ransacking opulent homes from coast to coast.
Some luxury watches and jewelry stolen from homes across the country — not just those belonging to athletes — ended up being sold at a pawnshop in Manhattan’s Diamond District and stashed away in nearby storage units.
Investigators say international crime rings have looted
high- end houses for years, but now they’re going after some of the biggest names in the NFL, NBA and NHL.
Thieves broke into the homes of Kansas City Chiefs teammates Mahomes and Kelce within days of each other in October around the time they played New Orleans and Kelce’s superstar girlfriend Taylor Swift watched the game from the stands.
Jewelry valued at about $30,000 was stolen from NBA All-Star Luka Doncic’s home in Dallas in December. Pittsburgh Penguins star Evgeni Malkin reported a home invasion in January that happened while his team was playing at home.
Law enforcement officials warned sports leagues last fall that thieves had been striking on game days when they knew the players would not be home,
$300K
Value of designer luggage, watches and jewelry stolen from Joe Burrow’s house while he was playing on “Monday Night Football”
often smashing through rear windows.
Some of the groups scoped out their targets by posing as home delivery drivers or joggers in secluded neighborhoods.
Burrow’s home in Ohio, which sits on a gated street tucked along a wooded area, was broken into while he was in Dallas for a “Monday Night Football” game in December. The men charged in the invasion were found weeks later traveling with a Husky glass-breaking tool that one of them bought at Home Depot.
Players have been advised to not only beef up their home security but also avoid posting their whereabouts on social media.
The theft rings are focused on cash and items that can be resold on the black market, such as jewelry, watches and luxury bags, according to an NBA warning based on information from the FBI.
The two men indicted this week in New York City were accused of buying stolen watches, jewelry and other expensive items from a variety of burglary crews and reselling them at their pawnshop in Manhattan since 2020.
Court documents said the pair were tied to five separate burglary crews.
NFL
Longtime NFL player, coach Jauron dies at 74
Chicago Longtime NFL player and coach Dick Jauron, who led the Chicago Bears to the playoffs and was voted AP coach of the year in 2001, died at 74. The Bears confirmed his death, which came one day before the Super Bowl. Jauron briefly served as an Eagles assistant to current Chiefs coach Andy Reid. Jauron was a twosport standout at Yale before spending eight years as a defensive back in the NFL.
Along with taking the Bears to the playoffs, he spent four seasons as the coach of the Bills. He retired from coaching in 2012.
PGA
Woods to play at Torrey Pines, first PGA event since July
San Diego Tiger Woods committed to playing the Genesis Invitational at Torrey Pines, returning to one of his favorite venues for his first PGA Tour start since the British Open last July. Woods will be playing 18 holes in competition for the first time since he had a microdiscectomy in September to alleviate pain down his legs, his sixth surgery on his lower back. He will also be playing just over a week after the loss of his mother, Kultida Woods, who died last Tuesday at age 80.
MLB Ohtani’s ex-interpreter sentenced to nearly 5 years in sports betting case
Santa Ana, Calif.
The former interpreter for Japanese baseball star Shohei Ohtani has been sentenced to four years and nine months in prison. Ippei Mizuhara pleaded guilty last year to bank and tax fraud. He was accused of stealing nearly $17 million from the Los Angeles Dodgers player’s bank account to cover his gambling bets and debts.
Prosecutors said Mizuhara never bet on baseball, and Ohtani was an unknowing victim of the scheme. The case stemmed from a broader probe of illegal sports bookmaking organizations in Southern California.
Sanders brings in Hall of Famer Faulk to coach running backs at Colorado
Denver Deion Sanders added another Pro Football Hall of Famer to his staff at Colorado by bringing in Marshall Faulk to oversee the running backs. Faulk becomes the third member of the Buffaloes’ coaching ranks to boast a gold jacket, joining Warren Sapp and, of course, Sanders. Sapp is the senior quality control analyst for the defense. Faulk will try to revamp a Colorado running game that’s been one of the worst in the nation the last two seasons. Deion Sanders and the Buffaloes are coming off a 9-4 season in which they earned a spot in the Alamo Bowl.
Los Angeles and the New York Mets were the big offseason spenders
By Ronald Blum The Associated Press
SPRING TRAINING workouts started Sunday with the Dodgers trying to become the first repeat champion since the New York Yankees won three in a row from 1998 to 2000.
Coming off their second title in five seasons, the Dodgers added Roki Sasaki, the prized 23-year-old right-hander from Japan, and left-hander Blake Snell to a pitching staff expecting two-way star Shohei Ohtani to return to the mound in April or May after recovering from elbow surgery.
“Kudos to them. They’re doing everything right,” said Toronto pitcher Max Scherzer, who pitched for the Dodgers briefly in 2021. “They have a well-oiled machine.”
Los Angeles opens the season in Tokyo against the Chicago Cubs with a two-game series starting March 18. The
Cubs are the first team to start practice, on Sunday in Mesa, Arizona, and all clubs will be on the field by Thursday.
Hooray for Hollywood
Los Angeles committed $452 million to eight players during the offseason. The Dodgers kept utilityman Tommy Edman with a $74 million, five-year contract, outfielder Teoscar Hernández with a $66 million, three-year deal and right-hander Blake Treinen for $22 million over two years.
In addition to Sasaki ($6.5 million signing bonus) and Snell ($182 million for five years), the Dodgers added reliever Tanner Scott ($72 million for four years), outfielder Michael Conforto` ($17 million for one season) and second baseman Hyeseong Kim ($12.5 million for three years).
Tyler Glasnow is projected for the rotation after finishing last season on the injured list. Three-time Cy Young Award winner Clayton Kershaw is expected to re-sign and return after he recovers
from knee and toe operations.
“The Dodgers are a really well-run, successful organization,” baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said. “Everything that they do and have done is consistent with our rules. ... I recognize, however, and my emails certainly reflect that there are fans in other markets who are concerned about their team’s ability to compete. And we always have to be concerned when our fans are concerned about something. But pinning it on the Dodgers, I’m not in that camp.”
Mets also paying top dollar
In search of the team’s first World Series title since 1986, New York Mets owner Steve Cohen gave a record $765 million, 15-year contract to outfielder Juan Soto, luring him from the rival Yankees, part of a $925 million splurge on eight free agents.
“If you want something that’s amazing, it’s going to be uncomfortable. It’s never going to be comfortable,” Cohen said. “And so I always stretch a little
bit because I know that’s what it takes to get it done.”
Following an NL Championship Series loss to the Dodgers, the Mets also added righthanders Frankie Montas, Clay Holmes and Griffin Canning along with left-hander A.J. Minter, and re-signed first baseman Peter Alonso, lefthander Sean Manaea, righthander Ryne Stanek and outfielder Jesse Winker. They acquired outfielder Jose Siri in a trade with Tampa Bay. Searching for ruby slippers
Tampa Bay and the Athletics will be preparing for vagabond seasons in minor league ballparks. After 57 years in Oakland, the A’s will play at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento for at least three seasons before moving to a planned ballpark in Las Vegas. The Rays will play at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, the spring training home of the Yankees, for 2025 because of damage at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg caused by Hurricane Milton.
NCAA committee to consider coaches’ proposal to combat ‘unethical behavior’ of fake injuries
Players would have to sit out longer if the rule is passed
By Eric Olson The Associated Press
A PROPOSED rule change intended to discourage players from faking injuries that prompt unwarranted timeouts will be considered when the NCAA Football Rules Committee meets this month.
Feigning injuries, sometimes at the coach’s instruction, has become a tactic defenses use to slow down tempo offenses or as a way for an offense to avoid a delay of game penalty or get an extra timeout.
The American Football Coaches Association submitted a proposal that would require a player who goes down on the field and receives medical attention to sit out the rest of that possession. Currently, the player must go out for one play before reentering.
“The American Football Coaches Association is acutely concerned about this,” AFCA executive director Craig Bohl said. “It goes against the grain of the betterment of our game and the ethics. We crafted this, we floated this, and it’s been received well. I’m sure there’ll be some pushback. Our point is give us something better if you don’t like it.”
BUTCH
NCAA supervisor of officials Steve Shaw speaks during the Southeastern Conference Media Days in 2019, when he was the conference’s officiating supervisor.
The proposal has carveouts. A coach can use a charged timeout to get the player back on the field during the current possession. A player injured by a hit that results in a penalty would be exempt. Also, the one player on offense and one on defense with a green dot on his helmet, indicating he’s allowed to receive radio communication from the sideline, can reenter after one play.
Injuries perceived to be feigned became such a hot topic in the Southeastern Conference last season that commissioner Greg Sankey put out a November memo admonishing teams.
“As plainly as it can be stated: Stop any and all activity related to faking injuries to
create time-outs,” he wrote. The NCAA Football Rules Committee will meet the last week of February in Indianapolis, and the issue will be front and center. If the AFCA’s proposal passes and is approved in the spring by the Playing Rules Oversight Panel, it would go into effect next season.
NCAA supervisor of officials Steve Shaw said Division I conference officiating coordinators gave their support during their annual meeting in Irving, Texas, last week. Shaw showed the coordinators a video montage of players feigning injuries, sometimes laughably so. Shaw said anyone who doesn’t think fake injuries are a problem would change their
opinion after watching the video.
“Eventually, you’re like, ‘This is awful. This is pitiful,’ “said Shaw, who doesn’t have plans to make the video public.
One of the clips shows a player with what appears to be a cramp.
“The trainer walks him out, and the guy has this huge grin on his face,” Shaw said. “The trainer makes him lay down and he does the typical stretching his leg out. The trainer is grinning at him, and (the player) pops right back up and he’s up in the coaches’ grouping to go back into the game.”
Bohl said the biggest offenders are rotational players, like defensive linemen and running backs.
“They look over to the sideline and the coach is pointing down, and they fall down and another guy goes in,” Bohl said.
“By having that player have to sit out a whole possession, a coach, the ones skirting the rules are going to look and say, ‘Do I really want to disadvantage my team by losing a rotational player?’”
Bohl said the AFCA proposal might not be perfect, but it should decrease the number of egregious instances of players faking injuries.
“The AFCA cannot stand by and look at the unethical behavior of what we’re doing in this aspect of our game,” he said.
July 10, 1931 – Feb. 3, 2025
LeRoy Joseph Dare, 93, of Southern Pines, NC passed away peacefully on Monday, February 3, 2025, at FirstHealth Hospice House in Pinehurst.
LeRoy was born July 10, 1931, in Schenectady, NY to the late Earl and Mildred Carle Dare.
LeRoy is survived by his daughter, Margaret Dare Troutman (Joel); son Michael L. Dare (Meg); six grandchildren Sara and Jacob Troutman, and Mitch (Jess), Montana, Jeremy and Claudia Dare; and a greatgrandchild Rafael.
LeRoy graduated from Burnt Hill High School, class of 1948. He served in the US Navy from October 1948 to October 1952 as a Fire Control Technician. He married Nancy Brown in November of 1952, and they enjoyed 70 years of marriage until her passing in 2023. LeRoy earned a bachelor’s degree from Wake Forest College in 1956 and later his master’s and PhD from UNC Chapel Hill. LeRoy was employed by Sandhills Community College from August 1969 - July 1990, first as an administrator and later as a professor of history. He was a long-time member of First Baptist Church - Southern Pines and served the church in various capacities. He and Nancy enjoyed visiting extended family across the United States and together had traveled to all 50 states, all Canadian Provinces, Europe and the U.K. A memorial service to honor his life will be held Saturday, March 15, 2024 at 11 a.m. at First Baptist Church - Southern Pines. In lieu of flowers, please make memorial contributions to First Baptist Church - Southern Pines, or FirstHealth Hospice and Palliative Care, 150 Applecross Road, Pinehurst, NC 28374.
March 30, 1931 – Feb. 7, 2025
Bruce Melvin Honeycutt Sr., stepped into the arms of his Lord Friday, February 7, 2025, surrounded by his family. Bruce was born on March 30, 1931, in Roseboro, North Carolina to George Purdie Honeycutt and Sallie Royal Honeycutt. He graduated from Roseboro High School and the former Pineland Junior College before enlisting in the Air Force, where he served as a sergeant in the Military Police.
After his service, Bruce returned to Roseboro and met the love of his life, Fay Matthews, in March 1963. Engaged in 6 weeks and married for 62 years, Fay and Bruce set the bar high for their children and grandchildren.
In 1964, Bruce and Fay moved to Warsaw, where he was employed with his brother-in-law at Kitchin Construction. While raising their three sons, Bruce coached Little League baseball and football and was a member of Warsaw Baptist Church.
The family moved to Aberdeen in 1978. Bruce was an active member of Aberdeen First Baptist Church and a great supporter of the Postmaster’s House, the oldest residence in downtown Aberdeen. He retired in 1996 after 20 years with North Carolina Department of Corrections.
Bruce enjoyed golf, and his favorite foursome was when he played with his sons. He and Fay travelled often and reveled in family trips to Ocean Island Beach, where Bruce would devein shrimp for hours for low country boils. Countless people across Eastern North Carolina were the lucky recipients of his culinary prowess with a pig cooker. Bruce perfected and closely-guarded his barbecue sauce recipe and only gifted it to his sons in recent years, though many people begged him for it over the years!
Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Lenwood Honeycutt and sister Minnie Kitchin. He is survived by his wife Fay Matthews Honeycutt of Southern Pines; his sons Bruce Melvin (Mel) Honeycutt, Jr (Carmen) of Raleigh, Craig Fletcher Honeycutt (Amber) of Elon, and Paul Andrew (Andy) Honeycutt (Donna) of Boone; grandchildren Reagan, Lanning (Emma Dye), Griffin (Lauren), Carson, Camille, Carter, and Drew; and greatgrandson James Craig Honeycutt.
Services will be Tuesday, February 11 at 3 p.m. at Boles Funeral Home, 425 W. Pennsylvania Avenue in Southern Pines. Visitation will take place one hour prior to the service. Interment will follow at Bethesda Cemetery in Aberdeen.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Friends of the Postmaster’s House Inc. c/o Laura Farrell, 1011 Devonshire Trail, Aberdeen, NC 28315
Fay’s wish is that everyone remembers Bruce (Pops) as a person loved by many people.
Aug. 26, 1940 – Feb. 3, 2025
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Nancy Simonette in her home surrounded by all those who loved her on the morning of Monday, February 3, 2025. Nancy spent the first her half of life in education being a 5th grade English/literature teacher in her home state of Ohio. After visiting and falling in love with the Moore County area she then called it her home for over 25 years. In her time here she continued her love for education and her love of faith by becoming a board member of Sandhills Classical Christian School helping see their vision come to life, becoming a prominent member of the Sandhills Rotary Club, and a sponsor to the Sandhills Children’s center. While taking a break from her philanthropic duties she enjoyed spending time with the Nancy club, garden club, and Delta Kappa Gamma. Nancy has always had a love for travel, visiting over 35 countries and 5 continents exploring and capturing all they had to offer. Nancy is survived by her two children as well as her numerous grandchildren and greatgrandchildren, all of which were the lights of her life. Nancy was a beacon of light to everyone she touched and she took the light and shared it with the world. She will be forever missed by all those that knew and loved her and we pray her influence will have a lasting effect on our community. In lieu of flowers, the family and Nancy have requested all donations go to Sandhills Classical Christian School to help keep hers and their dream alive. Memorial services to be held at Belle Meade Chapel on Friday, February 15, at 11 a.m. with a reception to follow.
Sept. 30, 1931 – Feb. 3, 2025
Evelyn Krause Moss, 93, transitioned to heaven on February 3, 2025, while under hospice care at home. A celebration of her life and ministry will be held Saturday, February 8, at 11 a.m. at Aberdeen First Baptist Church led by Dr. Daryl Cornett, with burial to follow at Bethesda Cemetery. The family will receive visitors 6-8 p.m. Friday evening in the church fellowship hall.
Born in the mountains of Union Mills NC, Evelyn and her older brother Jack grew up faithfully attending Round Hill Baptist Church with their parents, dairy farmer Roy Krause and Alma Krause, a seamstress for Doncaster. Evelyn showed early academic brilliance and musical talent graduating as Valedictorian at age 16 from Alexander High School. Even as a young girl her dedication to grow in her faith and desire to serve Jesus Christ in fulltime ministry was her singular focus, leading her to attend Gardner-Webb Baptist College in 1948. That first Sunday, she joined Boiling Springs Baptist Church, meeting fellow new member Zeb Moss and beginning their life-long love of 76 years and their marriage in 1952. After graduating from GardnerWebb, Evelyn earned her B.A. in Elementary Education at Meredith College while Zeb attended Wake Forest, and taught 4th Grade while Zeb attended Southeastern Baptist Seminary. During their time at Caroleen Baptist Church, their daughters were born and they felt the call to missions. Along with Tom and Mary Small, in 1959 they were appointed as the first Baptist missionaries to
April 19, 1933 – Feb. 7, 2025
Sandra Kay Pritchard Beebe, age 91, of Pinehurst, NC, passed away on February 7 at Quail Haven Retirement Village in Pinehurst. Sandra was born on April 19, 1933, in Grand Rapids, MI, to the late Kent Barton Pritchard and Grace Kathleen Geyer Pritchard. She married her high school sweetheart, Donald Beebe, and
the UK Protectorate of Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) by the Southern Baptist Foreign Mission Board (IMB). Evelyn became fluent in the local languages and used her legendary charm, hospitality, Bible knowledge and teaching skills to disciple young women, teach Sunday School, hold cooking and music classes, and assist with the creation of the Bible Way Correspondence school. She continued to learn additional languages and minister in unique, impactful ways after moving to Malawi, Kenya and finally Zimbabwe, leading Bible studies for the wives of Diplomats, discipling nurses and local students, and mastering desktop publishing and 1990s email protocols. After 39 years in Africa, Evelyn suffered sudden and complete hearing loss requiring cochlear implants. Despite her disability, she and Zeb remained immersed in ministry at Aberdeen First Baptist church and others, leading multiple short term mission trips to Unreached People’s Groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and homebased churches in Zimbabwe. On their last mission trip, Evelyn was arrested by members of Robert Mugabe’s notorious kill squads while witnessing at a home in Harare. She refused to be cowed but continued teaching until she was taken into custody, leading to the conversion of one of her captors and ultimately her safe release. Evelyn continued tirelessly serving into her 80’s, leading WMU at AFBC and coleading the Sandhills Baptist Association WMU and holding weekly prayer meetings. Even in her grief after Zeb’s death in October and her declining health, Evelyn never wavered in her whole-hearted devotion to prayer and spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ. She is survived by daughters Lynn Moss and Suzanne Moss Mullen, (Dr. Patrick Mullen), grandchildren Erin Bean and Daniel Mullen (Dr. Clare Mundy), and niece Jane Krause Hill (Jeff Hill). Memorial gifts are requested in her honor to Aberdeen First Baptist Church supporting International Missions through the Lottie Moon Offering by check or at tithe.ly/give_ new/www/#/tithely/give-onetime/4352564.
following two years in Germany raised a family in New Jersey. Following retirement from the Continental Insurance Company, she volunteered with many organizations in Pinehurst. She and Don celebrated 72 years of marriage on August 2, 2024. In addition to Donald, Sandy is survived by one son, Jon Beebe (Lynn); grandchildren, Melissa Beebe, Justin Beebe (Katelyn); Laurel Triplett (Andrew); and Darren Beebe (Rachael); greatgrandchildren Olivia and Harper Beebe; a cousin, Alice Pritchard; and a number of nieces and nephews.
Sandra was preceded in death by her parents and a son, Michael Beebe.
There will be a private memorial service at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in memory of Sandra to Liberty HomeCare & Hospice Services; 300 West Pennsylvania Ave., Southern Pines, NC 28387 or libertyhomecare.com.
A masked man gave the author life-threatening injuries in 2022
By Carolyn Thompson and Hillel Italie
The Associated Press
MAYVILLE, N.Y. — Salman
Rushdie described in graphic detail Tuesday the frenzied moments in 2022 when a masked man rushed at him on a stage in western New York and repeatedly slashed him with a knife, leaving him with life-threatening injuries.
The 77-year-old author addressed jurors on the second day of testimony at the trial of Hadi Matar, 27, who has pleaded not guilty to attempted murder and assault in the attack. It was the first time since the attack that Rushdie found himself in the same room with the man accused of trying the kill him.
“I only saw him at the last minute,” Rushdie said. “I was aware of someone wearing black clothes, or dark clothes and a black face mask. I was very struck by his eyes, which were dark and seemed very ferocious.”
His wife, Rachel Eliza Griffiths, cried from her seat in the courtroom’s second row.
Rushdie was blinded in one eye in the attack and spent months recovering, a process he detailed in a memoir released last year. A speaker who was to appear with Rushdie also was wounded.
Jurors heard opening statements Monday, followed by testimony from staffers at the Chautauqua Institution, the nonprofit art and education center where the attack happened about 75 miles south of Buffalo.
Matar has been in custody since he was subdued by spectators after the attack.
The trial is expected to last up to two weeks.
which some Muslims consider blasphemous.
Schmidt has said discussing Matar’s motive will be unnecessary in the state trial, given the attack was seen by a live audience that was expecting to hear Rushdie present a lecture on keeping writers safe.
“This is not a case of mistaken identity,” Schmidt said during opening statements Monday. “Mr. Matar is the person who attacked Mr. Rushdie without provocation.”
A public defender representing Matar told jurors that the case is not as straightforward as prosecutors have made it out to be.
“The elements of the crime are more than ‘something really bad happened’ — they’re more defined,” Lynn Schaffer said.
“But I saw a large quantity of blood pouring onto my clothes,” he said. “He was hitting me repeatedly. Hitting and slashing.”
Rushdie said he was struck more times in his chest and torso and stabbed in his chest as he struggled to get away.
Rushdie said he first thought his knife-wielding attacker was striking him with a fist.
While lying on the stage, he recalled “a sense of great pain and shock, and aware of the fact that there was an enormous quantity of blood that I was lying in.”
“It occurred to me that I was dying. That was my predominant thought,” he said.
“I was very badly injured. I couldn’t stand up any more. I fell down,” he said.
Jurors are unlikely to hear about a fatwa issued by the late Iranian leader Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini calling for Rushdie’s death, according to District Attorney Jason Schmidt.
Rushdie, the author of “Midnight’s Children” and “Victory City,” spent years in hiding after Khomeini announced the fatwa in 1989 following publication of the novel “The Satanic Verses,”
The case has been followed closely by true crime fans
By Michael Casey
The Associated Press
BOSTON — Massachusetts’ top court ruled Tuesday that Karen Read can be retried on all the same charges in the death of her Boston police officer boyfriend, the latest twist in the long-running case that transfixed true crime fans nationwide.
Prosecutors have sought to retry Read this year on charges of second-degree murder, manslaughter and leaving the scene of a crime. They accused her of ramming into John O’Keefe with her SUV and leaving him to die in a snowstorm in January 2022. Read’s attorneys argue she was framed to protect other law enforcement officers involved in O’Keefe’s death.
A judge declared a mistrial in June after finding jurors couldn’t reach an agreement, without polling the jurors to confirm their conclusions.
Read’s attorney Martin Weinberg argued that five jurors later said they were deadlocked only
on the manslaughter count, and had unanimously agreed in the jury room that she wasn’t guilty on the charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. But they hadn’t told the judge.
The ruling from the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court clears the way for a new trial on all three charges.
“The jury clearly stated during deliberations that they had not reached a unanimous verdict on any of the charges and could not do so. Only after being discharged did some individual jurors communicate a different supposed outcome, contradicting their prior notes,” the judges wrote. “Such posttrial disclosures cannot retroactively alter the trial’s outcome —either to acquit or to convict.”
The judges also found “no abuse of discretion” in Judge Beverly Cannone’s decision to declare a mistrial.
“After extensive, multiday deliberations, the jury submitted several increasingly emphatic notes about their inability to reach a unanimous verdict,” they wrote, adding that the record before the judge “suggested complete deadlock.”
Read’s lawyer said they’re
considering their legal options.
“While we have great respect for the Commonwealth’s highest court, Double Jeopardy is a federal constitutional right,” Weinberg said in a statement.
“We are strongly considering whether to seek federal habeas relief from what we continue to contend are violations of Ms. Read’s federally guaranteed constitutional rights.”
Weinberg had urged the court to allow an a evidentiary
Karen Read and her defense team and the prosecution filed motions in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham, Massachusetts, in November.
“Something bad did happen, something very bad did happen, but the district attorney has to prove much more than that.”
In a separate indictment, federal authorities allege Matar was driven to act by a terrorist organization’s 2006 endorsement of the fatwa. A later trial on federal terrorism charges will be scheduled in U.S. District Court in Buffalo.
The judges questioned Weinberg over the the merits for holding an inquiry. Associate Justice Frank Gaziano noted that such inquiries are usually reserved for “extraneous information” such as “racisms in the jury room.” Chief Justice Kimberly Budd wondered about the limits of allowing an inquiry, which she suggested could open the door for other defendants to argue a juror came to them to say “that’s not really what happened.”
Cannone ruled in August that Read could be retried on all three charges.
“Where there was no verdict announced in open court here, retrial of the defendant does not violate the principle of double jeopardy,” Cannone said.
hearing where jurors could be asked whether they had reached final not guilty verdicts on any of the charges.
Prosecutors maintained there’s no basis for dismissing the charges of second-degree murder and leaving the scene. They argued that her lawyers should have sensed a mistrial was “inevitable or unavoidable” and that they had every opportunity to be heard in the trial courtroom.
Prosecutors said Read, a former adjunct professor at Bentley College, and O’Keefe, a 16 -year member of the Boston police, had been drinking heavily before she dropped him off at a party at the home of Brian Albert, a fellow Boston officer. They said she hit him with her SUV before driving away. An autopsy found O’Keefe had died of hypothermia and blunt force trauma.
The defense portrayed Read as the victim, saying O’Keefe was actually killed inside Albert’s home and then dragged outside. They argued that investigators focused on Read because she was a “convenient outsider” who saved them from having to consider law enforcement officers as suspects.