North State Journal Vol. 7, Issue 52

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 52 |

WWW.NSJONLINE.COM

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2023

Hurricanes dazzle at 2023 NHL Stadium Series, B2

STAN GILLILAND | FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Fireworks go off as Carter-Finley Stadium is lit red during the national anthem before the NHL Stadium Series game between the Carolina Hurricanes and Washington Capitals on Saturday in Raleigh.

GOP pushes ahead with Medicaid expansion at NCGA

Republicans push to expedite Graham statue Washington, D.C. U.S. Sens. Ted Budd and Thom Tillis have introduced a resolution to expedite the installation of a statue of the Reverend William Franklin ‘‘Billy’’ Graham, Jr. into the U.S. Capitol’s Statuary Hall Collection.

Three steps remain in the process of placing the statue in the Capitol, and this resolution would force the Joint Committee on the Library of Congress (JCL) to complete those steps without further delay. Those steps include approval of the full-sized clay model and pedestal design of a statue within 30 days, approval of the completed statue within 30 days and determining a permanent display location within 30 days of approving the completed statue.

Eight of the state’s 14 representatives in the U.S. House also support the resolution.

NSJ STAFF

NCDHHS: opioid overdose deaths up 22% Raleigh The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services released its 2021 statistics showing opioid overdose deaths were up 22% from the previous year.

NCDHHS says the rise in overdose deaths in recent years is driven by illegal manufactured fentanyl, with 77% of the deaths likely involving the substance.

“North Carolina’s communities and families are meeting the tragedy of overdose deaths and the opioid crisis head on, every day,” said NCDHHS Secretary Kody H. Kinsley. “With the right treatment and support, recovery is possible, and individuals can go on to live full and productive lives. Our goal is to break the costly cycle of addiction and the smartest investment we can make to do that is expanding Medicaid.”

The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated the crisis, the department added. Overdose deaths have increased 72% since 2019, with a 40% jump in 2020 during the first year of the pandemic.

NSJ STAFF

entering office in 2017, Cooper has repeatedly made Medicaid expansion a significant part of his agenRALEIGH — NC House Re- da, at times berating the General publicans approved an updated Assembly to act.

One of Gov. Cooper’s first moves Medicaid expansion bill last week that would see North Carolina be- in office was to notify the U.S. Department of Health and come the 40th state to Human Services (HHS) back adding as many as that North Carolina 600,000 to the governwould expand Medicment-backed entitle- “This aid bureaucratically; ment program. the Republican-led legThe finalized pack- Republican islature then swifty actage and rules are still far legislature ed to prevent him from from complete, howevdoing so. er, as the NC Senate Re- has fought In 2019, the state oppublican leadership will Medicaid erated without a signed look to add additional expansion budget due to a staleregulatory changes, mate over the program, including overhauling every step along with education the state’s “Certificate of of the way… spending and other isNeed” restrictions. sues.

The NC House Re- They’ve done When NC Senate publicans’ bill, HB 76, a complete Republican leaders anwas approved by a vote of 96-23 including about face over nounced their flip to supporting expansion unanimous support of the last few in 2022, Cooper told NC House Democrats. months.”

Politico, “All these years, “I’m asking for you to we’ve been expanding support Medicaid exour coalition of people pansion because it is a Gov. Roy Cooper who have begun to realsmart and necessary inize that this is an absovestment in our state,” said state Rep. Donny Lambeth lute necessity and that North Car(R-Forsyth). “Think about the peo- olina is being foolish and deadly in ple you represent who will actually refusing to expand Medicaid. This Republican legislature has fought benefit from this.”

The move to how, not if, to ex- Medicaid expansion every step of pand Medicaid marks a substantial the way … They’ve done a complete victory for two-term Democratic about face over the last few months.

Gov. Roy Cooper.

An advocate of expansion since See MEDICAID, page A2

By Matt Mercer North State Journal

State treasurer Folwell blasts nonprofit hospital executive pay in report Top execs raked in over $1.75 billion between 2010 and 2021

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — During a Feb. 15 press conference, State Treasurer Dale Folwell unveiled a report detailing the high pay of executives of nonprofit hospitals operating in the state.

“You’ve heard me say before that what we’re dealing with in the health care industry is like an onion,” said Folwell. “The more we peel it, the more we cry. And the situation is getting far worse.”

“What you’re going to see from this report - if you can even imag-

ine the situation getting worse we are seeing a massive transfer of wealth from workers to hospital executives,” Folwell said. He added the healthcare executives were incented to raise profits but apparently not raise care quality or lower costs.

The report, titled “Nonprofit Hospital Executive Pay,” gives an overview of how the pay for top officials in charge of nonprofit health facilities doubled their paychecks in less than five years.

According to the report North Carolina hospitals paid $1.75 billion to their top executives from 2010 to 2021. Around 20% of that pay went to top executives, translating to a collective $308.8 milSee FOLWELL, page A2

Report: Post-pandemic teacher turnover rate remains mostly unchanged

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — The latest State of the Teaching Profession report presented to the State Board of Education shows the teacher attrition rate in the state mostly remained steady during the 2021-22 school year.

The report showed the teacher attrition rate, also referred to as the teacher turnover rate, came in at 7.78% for the 12-month period of March 2021 to March 2022.

That’s a drop of .4% over the previous pre-pandemic year’s reported 8.2% rate.

“It’s a positive sign that last

year’s attrition rate for the state was about on par with what it was before the pandemic,” State Superintendent Catherine Truitt said in a press release. “It indicates that things are stabilizing following a tremendous period of uncertainty in the 2020-21 school year.”

According to the report, before the pandemic the teacher turnover rate had declined from 9% in 2015-16 down to 7.5% in 2018-19 and 2019-20.

The report notes 3,103 teachers left for various personal reasons, 393 were terminated by districts, 1,369 were listed as leaving “beyond the control” of the local districts, around 2,400 left for “other

reasons” and 507 left to teach in another state.

Visiting International Faculty (VIF) and Teach for America (TFA) teachers had the highest attrition rates across all teacher categories. Of the total 510 VIF teachers, overall attrition was 88.7% and 85.5% left before their contract was up. Of TFA’s 257 teachers, the overall attrition rate was just over 25% with nearly 23% leaving before the end of their contract.

Of the 93,832 public school teachers employed last year, around 7,298 were no longer emSee TEACHERS, page A8

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20177 52016 $0.50

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North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

A2 WEDNESDAY

THE WORD: PERSPECTIVE WITH DIVINE INSPIRATION

2.22.23 #372

“Be joyful always!”

1 Thessalonians 5:16

“In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy!”

2 Corinthians 7:4

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FOLWELL from page A1 lion over 12 years.

Examples given by Folwell and his staff included Atrium CEO Gene Woods collecting $9.8 million, a 473% pay increase, in just a six-year period leading up to 2021.

Similarly, Mission Health CEO Ronald Paulus saw his compensation rise 726% in less than a decade.

Hospital executive compensation during the pandemic stayed on the rise despite taking $1.5 billion in COVID relief funds. The report says that of the 175 executives across the eight healthcare systems, only 35 took a pay deduction that was not triggered by a departure during 2020.

Other 2020 pandemic-related findings included an average CEO compensation of $3.4 million with the top 40 hospital executives collecting a total of $77.2 million in 2020. The report equates the over $77 million as “enough to pay the average salaries of 1,412 teachers.”

Thankfulness or unthankfulness is largely a matter of the attitude of our heart.

Two men look at the same scene. One sees the defects and the imperfections and the other sees the beauty and the brightness.

If you cannot find things to be thankful for today, and every day — the fault is in yourself, and you ought to pray for a changed heart — a heart to see God’s goodness and to praise Him. A joyful heart transfigures all the world around us. It finds something to be thankful for in the barest circumstances, even in the dark night of the soul. Let us train ourselves to see the beauty and the goodness in God’s world, and in our own circumstances — and then we shall stop grumbling, and be content and thankful in all situations.

What men and women find in the life—depends on what they are themselves. We hear some people talk of the coldness of the world. They find no love anywhere, no gratitude, no appreciation, no sympathy, no tenderness. Others, living in like circumstances and conditions—find only brightness, beauty, gladness, and tenderness wherever they go. The same skies are dull and dreary to one—and glorious with their deep, wonderful blue to another.

The same fields are dreary and desolate to one eye—and filled with splendid beauty to another.

Each person’s heart—casts its own hue and tinge upon all other lives.

Two people listen to the same voice: and while one hears what seems to him to be terrifying thunder, the other hears the entrancing strains of angels’ songs.

The report describes medical debt incurred by patients during the pandemic and says that some nonprofit hospitals in the state “billed more than $149 million to poor patients who should have received charity care,” and that the state’s largest nonprofit hospitals “encouraged thousands of North Carolinians to sign up for “medical credit cards” that can charge up to 18% interest,” the report states.

Folwell pointed out that the report is incomplete because it does not include outside compensation paid to CEOs and top executives.

An example given by the treasurer is UNC Health’s CEO William Roper who was paid $5.5 million as a result of sitting on boards of outside organizations that did business with the state.

Another factor impeding the report’s estimation of executive compensation is a lack of ability to view hospital tax filings. Folwell said loopholes in the current law governing those filings meant that over

PUBLIC DOMAIN

“The Starry Night” (1889) is a painting by Vincent van Gogh which is now in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art, New York.

“Two men looked out from their prison bars — One saw the mud, the other saw the stars!”

This same difference is seen in the way life’s experiences appear to different people. To one pessimistic class, everything seems discouraging.

They see only the troubles, the difficulties, the hindrances, the disheartenments. They talk always in sad tone of their burdens, tasks, duties, disappointments, and trials. There is no blue sky in their picture, and no stars shine down upon them.

Then there are others who always look upon life optimistically. They are never discouraged. They are not disturbed by the perplexing things which they meet. They expect to have struggles; since with only easy life—there can be no progress, no victories, no struggling upward, and they grow only the braver and more resolute in battle. They meet obstacles and hindrances; but they are not disheartened by them, and turn them into stepping stones for upward striving. They suffer defeats and

three in ten of the nonprofit hospitals were able to keep their filings out of the public view.

Suggested transparency remedies asking lawmakers to “require publicly owned hospitals to abide by the same transparency standards as other nonprofit hospitals that publish tax filings.” In the same vein, the report suggests “policy makers should reconsider allowing hospitals to conceal the structure of their top executives’ compensation in contracts.”

Folwell also said that the report did not include some of the latest data his office had just received via public records requests submitted to UNC Health.

In his closing, Folwell recalled his earlier remarks about the NC Chamber’s president asking him to stop calling the healthcare system a “cartel.”

“I want to tell everybody at the same time, I will stop using the word cartel when they stop acting like one,” Folwell said.

reverses; but they are not dismayed, only learning from their failures how to keep from being defeated again. Everywhere they go they hear music, and everywhere they find something beautiful and good.

All will admit that the man with the optimistic spirit—gets far more out of life, and makes far more of life, than his pessimistic neighbor. It is a great deal better to see blue sky and stars—than only dull, dreary clouds. It is a more noble thing to hear angel music — than thunders in the voices that break on our ears.

Happiness or unhappiness is, therefore, not so much a matter of external conditions—as of heart attitude. We gather in life—what our habit of heart has fitted us for gathering.

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

Various experts joined Folwell for the press event, which was streamed on his department’s Facebook page.

Those joining the treasurer included Dr. Vivian Ho, James A. Baker III Institute Chair in Health Economics at Rice University; Dr. Hossein Zare, professor and assistant scientist at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health; and Dr. Ge Bai, professor of health policy and management at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and professor of accounting at the Carey Business School.

Support for the report also came from Ardis Watkins, executive director of the State Employees Association of North Carolina.

Ho called the report “a wake-up call to anyone who sits on the board of a nonprofit hospital.”

Zare remarked that while nonprofit hospitals are required to justify community benefits spending at the tax level, it was hard to tell what

these entities were really doing.

“Lack of transparency on definitions and spending creates a wide variation across nonprofit hospitals in the amount of tax benefit and charity care/community benefits,” Zare said. “A new standard is needed.”

A set of peer-reviewed reports commissioned by Folwell showed nonprofit hospitals received over $1.8 billion in tax breaks in 2020, but the majority of hospitals didn’t justify their exemptions through an equivalent level of charity care.

A statement from the North Carolina Hospital Association called the report a “distraction” from what they called a secretive selection process for the new third-party administrator for the State Health Plan and called questioning executives’ commitment to improve the health of patients and communities egregious.

The full report can be accessed on the N.C. State Health Plan website: https://www.shpnc.org/what-the-

FILE PHOTO

Left, State Treasurer Dale Folwell released a report concerning hospital executive pay on Feb. 15, 2023. Right, A doctor talks to a patient in this undated file photo.

MEDICAID from page A1 They know it’s the right thing to do.”

Much of the Republican plan centers on what they believe is an “out” if the federal government stops paying 90% of costs or if the nonfederal share costs cannot be met with the dedicated funding sources outlined in the bill.

Those sources are increases in revenue from the gross premiums tax due to NC Health Works coverage, increases in intergovernmental transfers due to NC Health Works coverage, hospital health advancement assessments enacted as part of the bill, and “savings to the state attributable to NC Health Works coverage that correspond to general fund budget reductions to other state programs.

The North Carolina Hospital Association, which has strongly backed Medicaid expansion for years, released a statement in support of the NC House Republican bill.

“Passing Medicaid expansion and HASP is a bipartisan issue.

Members of all political parties want communities that are healthy and hospital doors that are open.

We look forward to continuing to work with members of the General Assembly to make this a good bill that will help hundreds of thousands of our neighbors and that we can all point to with pride,” said Steve Lawler, president and chief executive officer of the North Carolina Healthcare Association.

HASP, the Healthcare Access and Stabilization Program, will

pump billions into the state’s hospitals from Medicaid reimbursements. The tradeoff for the state’s hospitals is to pay an assessment as part of North Carolina’s 10% share of expenses.

Some Republicans supporting the bill also point to a “sweetener” in Medicaid expansion as a reason to pass the bill. The American Rescue Plan Act offers an additional 5 percentage points on the state’s federal Medicaid match to be applied to the existing Medicaid population for 2 years. North Carolina would qualify for the higher federal match, which would result in $900 million per year in additional federal Medicaid receipts for 2 years.

Yet despite assurances that hospitals, particularly in rural areas will benefit from Medicaid expan-

sion, the Foundation for Government Accountability says expansion has actually contributed to the closing of more hospitals.

According to a research study, FGA found that, “While expansion proponents are fixated on one side of the ledger — uncompensated care costs — they often ignore the effect of shifting untold numbers of able-bodied adults from private insurance (whether through their employer or the individual market) onto Medicaid, which has lower provider reimbursement rates.”

“Since Medicaid pays roughly 60% of what private insurance reimburses, expansion states ultimately lose money on every patient they crowd out of their existing private coverage and shift onto Medicaid,” the study’s executive summary

adds.

The American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC), a nonpartisan organization made up of policy experts and state legislators around the country, is also sceptical of Medicaid expansion.

In a Jan. 30, 2023 update, ALEC research stated that expansion has led to $100 billion in waste, fraud, and improper spending.

“Additionally, the data is mixed on whether expanding Medicaid translates to better health outcomes. A recent National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) study casts doubt on the claim many proponents make about Medicaid expansion saving lives,” the report states. “Regardless, many Americans have reported longer wait times, provider shortages and de-

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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N. Carolina House, Senate pass gun rights bills

By Matt Mercer North State Journal RALEIGH — Both sides of the General Assembly approved separate gun rights bills in a flurry of activity on Jones Street last week.

In the NC House, a bill that would allow licensed conceal carry holders to carry in educational facilities used in places of religious worship passed by a 77-43 vote with six Democrats joining Republicans in support.

The bill, HB 49, carves out specific exceptions to the prohibition of weapons on educational property.

That includes ensuring the property is not owned by a local board of education or county commission, is not property of a public or private institution of higher education, does not post a notice prohibiting carrying a concealed handgun on the premises, and is only carried on the property outside of school operating hours.

In the NC Senate, a couple of stand alone bills were rolled into SB 41, the Guarantee 2nd Amendment Freedom and Protections Act. The bill adds concealed carry for certain law enforcement facility employees, repeals the state’s Pistol Purchase Permit system, and creates a statewide firearm safe storage awareness initiative.

The Senate’s bill passed on a party-line vote.

Following the legislative action for the week, gun rights groups applauded the moves in the state legislature.

Grass Roots North Carolina, the top state gun rights organization, said, “Grass Roots North Carolina would like to thank Senate Republicans – particularly Senators Danny Britt, Warren Daniel, and Ralph Hise – for a highly organized effort in not only passing legislation long sought by North Carolina gun rights supporters.

In particular, we thank them for rejecting unconstitutional ‘red flag’ gun confiscation schemes by which people’s guns can be confiscated, with little or no evidence or wrongdoing.”

GRNC added, “If enacted, the bill will remove yet another of the

AP PHOTO

North Carolina state Sen. Danny Britt, a Robeson County Republican, promotes his legislation easing gun access requirements at the Legislative Building in Raleigh, N.C., on Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2023. ostensibly ‘gun free’ zones that attract mass killers. That measure, plus removing obstructions placed by certain sheriffs on the ability of lawful North Carolinians to buy handguns for self-protection, will vastly improve safety in our state.”

The National Rifle Association also supported the bills, saying in a statement thanking legislators for fighting to protect the rights of North Carolina’s law-abiding citizens and advancing Second Amendment freedom.

The pistol permit purchase system places North Carolina in a

minority of states – just 10 nationwide have some form of a permit licensing system for buyers. Dating back to over 100 years ago, each county sheriff is required to conduct a criminal background check to determine if the applicant is “of good moral character” and then issuing the permit.

Supporters of the bill point out that the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) conducts the same background checks. The NICS system is operated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

The third aspect of the bill, the firearm safe storage awareness initiative, would bring three state agencies: the Department of Public Safety (DPS), Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS), and Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) to launch a two-year statewide initiative to educate the public about proper firearm storage and to distribute gun locks. Following the implementation a report to the Joint Oversight Committee on Health and Human Services detailing progress is to be made by Sept. 1, 2024.

“If enacted, the bill will remove yet another of the ostensibly ‘gun free’ zones that attract mass killers.”

Grass Roots North Carolina statement

State Board of Education approves creation of 42 remote academies

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal

AP PHOTO, FILE

Stickers await voters after they cast their votes on Election Day at Glenwood Center in Greensboro.

Audit: Hertford elections director violated purchase policies

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — A new investigative audit conducted by the N.C. State Auditor’s office has fund the Hertford County elections director violated purchase policies. The audit was promoted by two allegations submitted to the agency’s tipline.

The audit found that the Hertford County director of elections violated policy by purchasing $19,995 in services from a company, RA Enterprises, LLC, owned by the former Chairman of the Hertford County Board of Commissioners. The purchases involved sanitization and cleaning during the pandemic.

The timeline of purchase issues spans from July to October 2020.

At that time, the elections director

“According to the audit, the elections director failed to obtain “approved purchase orders for services from the former Chairman’s company despite the county’s prohibition.”

State Auditor report for the county was Shelia Privott.

She is still listed in that capacity on the county’s website.

According to the audit, the elections director failed to obtain “approved purchase orders for services from the former Chairman’s

company despite the county’s prohibition against purchasing from a company in which a county employee has a financial interest.”

She also failed to obtain quotes from other vendors for services under $5,000 as well as failing to solicit competitive bids for services over $5,000.

The audit recommends disciplinary action for the elections director and for the Hertford County Board of Commissioners to develop disclosure processes for companies where a commission member may have an ownership interest.

Hertford County Commissioners response to the audit said they have “reviewed and acknowledged” the audit’s findings and have “immediately and proactively implemented internal fiscal control measures” to fix the issues raised in the audit.

RALEIGH — The creation of 42 remote or virtual academies across the state was approved by members of the State Board of Education (SBE) at its Feb. 2 meeting.

The academies will be scattered in districts across the state and will open in 2023-24. The remote learning schools will be run by local public school districts. The academies will be subject to the accountability rules that apply to conventional brick-and-mortar schools, per the SBE. Legislation (SL 2022-59) passed last year instructed the SBE to begin implementing the academies.

As defined by the SBE and legislation, remote academies are public schools where instruction is mainly online and may use a combination of synchronous and asynchronous instruction.

“The need for widespread remote instruction was an immediate response to the COVID-19 pandemic during the 2020-21 school year, but some families and students have expressed a preference to continue learning remotely even as previously closed schools reopened,” an SBE press release states.

A full list of the remote academies and their locations can be found under SBE meetings located on the N.C. Department of Public Instruction’s website.

“The need for widespread remote instruction was an immediate response to the COVID-19 pandemic, but some families and students have expressed a preference to continue learning remotely.”

State Board of Education statement

FILE IMAGE

North Carolina’s education districts are seen in the image above.

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Murphy to Manteo

Jones & Blount Bill would increase penalties for sex crimes against students

A sweet life In 1971, just ten years after the formation of the North Carolina Sweetpotato Commission, North Carolina earned the rank of No.1 sweetpotato producing state in the U.S. and has remained there since. Its hot, moist climate and rich, fertile soil are ideal for cultivating sweetpotatoes, averaging at nearly 60% of the U.S. supply. According to the USDA, North Carolina harvested just over 104,700 acres of sweetpotatoes in 2021. The graphic shows the top sweetpotato producing North Carolina counties, with Sampson, Johnston, Wilson and Nash accounting for about half of the state’s supply.

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — A bill filed in the North Carolina House seeks to increase penalties for certain sex crimes committed against students by educators but also includes penalties for officials who fail to report misconduct to the state board of education.

House Bill 142, titled “Protect Our Students Act,” was filed on Feb. 16

by Reps. John Torbett (R-Gaston), Kristin Baker (R-Cabarrus), Jake Johnson (R-Polk), and Keith Kidwell (R-Beaufort).

Under the proposed bill, the crime of sexual activity with a student will change from a Class I to a Class G felony. A Class I felony has a sentence of three to 12 months whereas a Class G felony can be an eight to 31 months prison sentence.

The crime of taking indecent liberties with a student also has the same increased penalty going from a Class I to a Class G felony.

NC counties that produce sweetpotatoes

WEST

Mars Hill University to start substance use support program

Dog gets adopted after 7 years at shelter Jackson County Mitch, a treeing walker coonhound, was found as a stray dog seven years ago and taken to Cashiers-Highlands Humane Society. Now 12 years old, Mitch became the shelter’s longest-tenured resident, but, after seven years, Mitch finally found a home.

He was adopted by Teresa Shular and her husband, who were brought to tears when they saw a video about Mitch online.

WLOS

Madison County North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services awarded more than $3.2 million to nine colleges and universities across the state to increase access to recovery services and supports on campuses for students with substance use disorders.

Among the recipients is Mars Hill University, which received $75,770 to create a new comprehensive collegiate recovery program to provide access to drug- and alcohol-free places and locations for students to live, study and socialize, provide peer mentorship and receive other recovery supports NCDHHS.GOV

Sun Outdoors to invest $75 million in area Transylvania County Sun Outdoors, a hospitality company, will be investing in Western North Carolina. The company plans to create 128 full-time jobs in Transylvania County and spend $75 million through 2025. The jobs will have average salaries of $45,531, about $3000 more than the average for the county. The county board of commissioners voted to give the company up to $2.3 million in economic incentives to move to the area.

WLOS

A5

EAST

PIEDMONT

Bus driver wins six-figure lottery prize

N.C. Central honored by elected officials for HBCU title Durham County State politicians honored the N.C. Central University football team for its Celebration Bowl victory. Players, coaches and university administrators were invited onto the state House floor last week, and a proclamation was read aloud praising the team’s accomplishments. The Durham school defeated Jackson State 41-34 on Dec. 17 at the bowl in Atlanta for what is regarded as the championship of teams from historically Black colleges and universities.

Gov. Roy Cooper later Wednesday hosted an event at the Executive Mansion for the bowl champions. State senators also had an informal meet-and-greet with the team and school leaders.

Former deputy faces civil trial over shooting

AP

Macon County Former Macon County deputy Anthony Momphard was accused of shooting and killing Michael Scott Knibbs, 47, five years ago. Momphard was cleared of all criminal wrongdoing at the time and has since moved out of state. However, he now faces a civil trial after the Knibbs family sued him for wrongful death. If he is found guilty, the family would receive a minimum of $75,000.

WLOS

Layoffs won’t affect electric car plant Chatham County VinFast, a Vietnamese electric car manufacturer, still plans to go forward with a $4 billion plant in Chatham County. The company has cleared 2,000 acres and plans to manufacture vehicles and batteries at the plant, which it hopes will be open by next year. The company confirmed that the plans haven’t been impacted by recent layoffs at the company, which include 60 U.S. based workers at other locations.

Warren County Paula Harris, 59, of Warrenton, bought a $5 scratch-off lottery ticket and earned a life-changing prize. Harris scratched off a winner, taking home the $150,000 jackpot from the Cashword Mutliplier ticket she bought in Ayden. Harris, a bus driver for the school district, took home $108,876 after taxes and said she plans to use the money to pay off her mortgage.

WRAL

$400,000 grant will replace diesel equipment with electric Craven County SMM Southeast LLC received $406,000 from the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality. The grants are intended to replace diesel-powered vehicles and equipment with cleaner-running options. SMM will use the money to replace one diesel material handler with an electric material handler and funds associated infrastructure. This project eliminates the greenhouse gas emissions and 4.45 tons of lifetime NOx emissions associated with an internal combustion engine.

DEQ.NC.GOV

Diesel garbage trucks to get replaced by cleaner vehicles

Less addictive morphine being developed by local drug company Pitt County The North Carolina Biotechnology Center awarded $2.3 million to universities, bioscience companies and nonprofit organizations to support life sciences research, technology commercialization and entrepreneurship throughout North Carolina. Amalgent Therapeutics of Greenville received $250,000 to perform animal studies and prepare for a preInvestigational New Drug (IND) meeting with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its fixed-dose oral tablet combination of two FDA-approved drugs, morphine and pramipexole, that enables reduction of morphine to a less addictive dose.

WRAL

Lee County Waste Management of Carolinas received a $90,000 grant from the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality as part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Diesel Emissions Reduction Act program. The company will use the money to replace three diesel refuse trucks with three low-NOx compressed natural gas refuse trucks. This project reduces 4.69 tons of lifetime NOx emissions associated with diesel combustion engines.

NC.GOV

Fourth grader brings gun to school Harnett County A fourth-grade student at Erwin Elementary School brought a gun to school last week.

Other students informed school officials and a school resource officer that the student had a gun, and the officials found the gun in the student’s backpack. Students also reported that the child pointed the gun at people in a school bathroom. The gun was located and recovered quickly, so the school was never placed under lockdown. There was an extra police presence in the building throughout the day, however.

WTVD

WRAL

Motor line gets $140,000 to upgrade equipment Bladen County The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) has awarded $1.369 million in grants for projects that will reduce air pollution from diesel-powered equipment.

Bladen County’s Hirschbach Motor Lines received $140,800 to replace one diesel yard spotter with one electric yard spotter.

This project eliminates the greenhouse gas emissions and 0.64 tons of lifetime NOx emissions associated with internal combustion engines.

NC.GOV

Sweetpotato is ONE word Let's get back to our roots.

WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE TOGETHER. Sign the petition to make sweetpotato one word.

HELP US TEACH THE WORLD!

The bill also makes it a Class I felony if a school official fails to report a teacher engaged in misconduct to the State Board of Education: “Any superintendent, assistant superintendent, associate superintendent, personnel administrator, or principal who knows or has reason to believe that an employee licensed under Article 17E of this Chapter has engaged in misconduct resulting in dismissal, disciplinary action, or resignation shall report the misconduct to the State Board of Education within five days of dismissal, determination of disciplinary action, or acceptance of resignation.

Failure to report misconduct pursuant to this section is a Class I felony.”

The final section of the bill requires the N.C. Department of Public Instruction’s Center for Safer Schools to create an age-appropriate informational video on child abuse, sex abuse, and neglect for students in grades six through 12. The video provision would apply at the beginning of the 2024-25 school year.

Bill aimed at speeding hurricane recovery construction projects filed in House

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — A bill aimed at getting citizens displaced by hurricanes back in their homes more quickly was filed in the House on Feb. 14.

House Bill 119, titled “NCORR/ Increase Informal Bid Threshold,” was filed by Reps. Mark Pless (R-Haywood), Sarah Stevens (R-Surry), House Majority Leader John Bell (R-Wayne), and Brendan Jones (R-Columbus).

The bill increases the informal bid threshold for disaster recovery construction and repair projects by amending current law to require NCORR to use the statute’s informal bid process when awarding contracts of $250,000 or more but less than $500,000. Purchase of modular or manufactured homes is included in the construction definitions.

The informal bid process allows an agency to select the lowest responsive bidder when considering the quality, performance, and time specified in the bid.

This is the only bill filed so far this session attempting to address the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency’s (NCORR)

slow progress of getting citizens back into a home following Hurricanes Matthew and Florence.

Last fall, a joint special committee on hurricane response held two hearings on NCORR’s slow recovery efforts and the management of $778 million in federal disaster relief received for both hurricanes Matthew (2016) and Florence (2018).

At the December 2022 hearing, NCORR’s Director Laura Hogshead told the committee that Rebuild NC, the office responsible for getting citizens back in their homes, had completed 889 out of a total 4,313 homes needed. In September, she reported 789 homes out of a total 4,197 were completed.

As of Feb 1. Richard J. Trumper was named Senior Advisor for Disaster Recovery by the N.C. Department of Public Safety. He was serving as executive director of Disaster Recovery with the Office of State Budget and Management at the time of the announcement.

Trumper is slated to work with NCORR and N.C. Emergency Management (NCEM) to get disaster victims “back in their homes faster,” according to a statement from the Department of Public Safety.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

north STATEment Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor

VISUAL VOICES

EDITORIAL | FRANK HILL

The comedic Biden White House

This situation absolutely requires a really futile and stupid gesture be done on somebody’s part.

CAPITOL HILL STAFFERS and campaign managers are busy people.

Talking in short-hand by referring to one line in a crazy movie or comedy skit saves time and effort for all involved. Mental images convey far more content than words ever can in less than five seconds.

The Biden Administration is proving to be an on-going, daily treasure trove of incidents that can be compared to any number of sophomoric movies or cartoons. Unfortunately for the rest of the country, they seem to be the only ones who don’t get it yet. Which makes it even more humorous and yet, sad and poignant at the same time.

Whenever the president tries to assure us as a nation that all is well with the border, inflation, gas prices and debt, the only thing that comes to mind is Kevin Bacon as Omega pledge “Chip Diller” in his ROTC uniform calmly saying “Remain Calm! All is Well!” at the end of “Animal House”.

He was thereupon trampled by a maddened crowd who knew “all was not well” in the fair town of Faber.

“Inflation is coming down. ... Food inflation is coming down…“(g)as prices are down $1.50 a gallon since their peak” Biden asserted in his State of the Union speech. He didn’t explain it was his policies that caused inflation and gas prices to skyrocket in the first place. Ty Webb used the same delusional thinking while explaining life to his caddy, Danny Noonan in “Caddyshack”: “There’s a force in the universe that makes things happen, Danny. And all you have to do is get in touch with it, stop thinking, let things happen, and be the ball”.

President Biden can’t “be the ball” and just make inflation disappear overnight just by saying so. He is not in touch with that force in the universe.

White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre emphatically stated “President Biden is the best communicator we have in the White House!”

On cue on my mind’s digital recorder, I saw and heard Dean Wormer of Faber College intone in a deeply exasperated manner: “Mr. Biden. Two C’s, two D’s, and an F. That’s a 1.2 grade average. Congratulations. You’re at the top of the pledge class”.

VP Kamala Harris says Biden is “probably one of the boldest and strongest American presidents we have had”. Sure, if he is being compared to fictional movie presidents such as Merkin Muffley, spectacularly played

by Peter Sellers in “Dr. Strangelove”. “Gentlemen, you can’t fight in here.

This is the War Room!” Was only one of his memorable buffoonish lines.

But not when Biden is compared to any real US presidents in our entire 243-year history. It is hard to think of a least-bold or strong president to be honest — if you know of one, please let us know.

VP Harris declared, after Biden let a Chinese spy balloon surveil the entire country for a week, “Let’s be clear: first of all, as it relates to the Chinese balloon, we shot it down because it needed to be shot down”.

Biden spokesman John Kirby followed up with: “I can tell you the president doesn’t regret the way we handled the first balloon.”

Both could have told the truth about White House policy if they just had repeated what Otter said to his Delta brothers after being thrown offcampus: “I think that this situation absolutely required a really futile and stupid gesture be done on somebody’s part”.

“And we were just the guys to do it!” every member of Biden’s sycophantic team could have said in unison.

Setting aside the physical and mental health of President Biden for the moment, experienced businessmen and women who listen to any of Biden’s public policy pronouncements must shake their heads and think, if not say out loud, the same thing Principal Max Anderson said to Adam Sandler as “Billy Madison” after his closing argument in a debate: “Mr. Madison, what you’ve just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul”.

Comedy reflects truth but does so under the umbrella of free speech which protects against slander and libel. It would be so much better to have a president and administration which did not conjure up such humorous images.

But we don’t. 2024 can’t get here soon enough.

EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS

Here’s why Nikki Haley’s presidential candidacy is driving Democrats crazy

“Take it from me, the first minority female governor in history, America is not a racist country.”

Nikki Haley, Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations

NIKKI HALEY, who was former President Donald Trump’s ambassador to the United Nations for nearly two years, announced her 2024 presidential candidacy last week, making her the second major Republican contender to do so behind Trump, who declared his in November shortly after the 2022 midterm elections.

Predictably, Haley is already facing questions from the media and her critics on the left about the time she served in Trump’s administration and statements she made about it after she left. What has been even more predictable are the unhinged reactions to the former South Carolina governor’s candidacy from the supposedly “woke” contingent of the Democratic party.

During her announcement, Haley talked about how Democrats including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris frequently either talk about or insinuate that America is a “racist country.”

“The American people know better. My immigrant parents know better,” Haley stated. “And take it from me, the first minority female governor in history, America is not a racist country.”

This did not sit well with the racial arsonists on the left, who proceeded to revive a longstanding and false argument that Haley is, in so many words, “running away from her Indian heritage” for political gain by using her middle name.

Haley’s full name as it is listed on her birth certificate is Nimarata Nikki Randhawa, and she says she has gone by the “Nikki” since she was a child.

She got married in 1996 to Michael Haley, and took his last name.

CNN legal and national security analyst Asha Rangappa, a lecturer at Yale and a former FBI agent, had previously taken issue in 2020 with Haley declaring that America was not a racist country, and in a sincedeleted tweet from that time, Rangappa wrote, “Right. Is that why you went from going by Nimrata [sic] to ‘Nikki’?”

When she was confronted about the tweet last week, Rangappa proceeded to double down on her insinuation that Haley was trying to pass herself off as “white,” including when she married Michael Haley.

“I didn’t change my last name when I got married to a white guy,” Rangappa tweeted in a back and forth with Twitter users who accused her of being a hypocrite because she, too, does not go by her first name (Renuka) professionally.

New York Times writer/CNN commentator Wajahat Ali also got in on the act, announcing on Twitter that he had “just submitted a piece on Nikki Nimrata [sic] Haley shamefully using her Indian heritage to launder white supremacy and GOP talking points. It was cathartic for the soul.”

“So why did she change her name then?” Atlantic writer Jemele Hill ignorantly wondered, as did CBS News anchor Tanya Rivero, who asked the same question.

These racially-charged attacks on Haley were aided and abetted by the “Politico” news outlet, which ran a piece on the day she declared her intentions to run for president with the headline “Nikki Haley’s complicated racial dance.”

One thing that for years has kept Democrat movers and shakers and their media allies up at night is the fear that one day they’d finally lose their iron-like grip on the minority voters who for decades now have been central to many of their election victories.

Haley’s candidacy represents a threat to that grip, which began to loosen under Trump, and that is why in their view she must not just be defeated but also discredited and shown to be a “traitor” to women and minorities.

Throughout her six years as governor, Haley proved to be a formidable Republican leader, so her detractors on the left and in the press should not be so quick to underestimate her because, as she’s shown since she made her announcement, the attacks could very well come back to bite them.

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.

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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COLUMN | CHARLES BLAHOUS

COLUMN | MICHAEL BARONE

Getting past the debt blame game

Disinformation Inc vs. the Founding Fathers

Autopilot Medicare cost growth is the single greatest contributor to the mounting fiscal imbalance.

THE BARBS EXCHANGED at the State of the Union address remind us of the ease with which each party feels it can blame the other for the worsening of federal indebtedness year after year, Congress after Congress, and presidential administration after administration.

These routinized charges are not only counterproductive, they are inaccurate. My comprehensive study of the issue shows that the U.S. has soaring debt not primarily because of actions taken by any current officeholder, but because of a stream of legislation enacted between 1965 and 1972.

The study was motivated by dissatisfaction with the uninformative way these questions are typically discussed in a political context. Partisans, ideologues and interest groups have become adept at framing these questions in ways designed to cast blame on their political opposition. All one needs to do is to only count deficit-increasing actions taken upon the other party’s accession to power, excluding from the picture any previous policy decisions.

Presto! The other party is found at fault for the mounting debt.

The only fair and thorough way to analyze the issue is to examine the entirety of the federal budget, quantifying each policy’s contribution to the problem irrespective of when it was enacted. Doing this reveals that nearly three-fifths of the worsening federal fiscal gap is the product of legislation enacted during the aforementioned time period.

Specifically, it was spawned by the enactments of Medicare and Medicaid in 1965, along with subsequent expansions of both programs as well as to Social Security in 1971-1972. Astoundingly, all policy decisions combined over the last 50 years have not contributed as much to the widening fiscal gap as the decisions made in those few eventful years.

Autopilot Medicare cost growth is the single greatest contributor to the mounting fiscal imbalance, as documented by recurring reports from the Congressional Budget Office. While there have been isolated expansions of the program over the years as well as countervailing efforts to contain its cost growth, the largest component of Medicare’s excess growth was unleashed in its original enacting legislation in 1965.

Medicaid growth is another significant contributor to the mounting problem, but its history is different. Its excess cost growth is due in part to its 1965 origination and to expansions in 1971-1972, but even more so to subsequent expansions, most recently in the 2010 Affordable Care Act. Social Security would be in financial balance

were it not for a dramatic expansion and enactment of automatic growth provisions in 1972. Lawmakers have yet to determine how to finance these ongoing increases, which today pose an intensifying threat to the program’s solvency.

While my study was conducted as an informational antidote to partisan finger-pointing, it may be worth noting that those bearing largest responsibility for the current problem include one long-ago Democratic president, Lyndon B. Johnson, and one Republican, Richard Nixon (both working with a Congress then under unified Democratic control).

While the perennial problem is driven by legislative decisions made more than five decades ago, deficits in particular years can be greatly affected by legislation during or leading up to those years. For example, the year my study was published (2021) exhibited historically elevated deficit spending. The vast majority of this spending was enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic, in the last year of the Trump administration and the first year of the Biden administration. Huge though this spending was, it was mostly temporary and did not cause the long-term problem.

Officeholders prefer not to acknowledge these realities because of the bipartisan popularity of the programs driving the worsening fiscal problem.

It’s easier to allege, falsely, that the only threats to these programs are their enemies in the opposing party. Politicians emphasize partisan distinctions and proclaim their superior budgetary virtue by distracting voters with other federal budget policy disagreements, such as those over taxes and annual appropriations. Unfortunately, these sideshow policy battles simply don’t affect the fiscal situation nearly enough to correct it, no matter how they are resolved.

Abraham Lincoln once said, “If we could first know where we are, and whither we are tending, we could better judge what to do, and how to do it.” Where we are is clear; what to do is less so.

Policymakers will naturally differ over how best to correct for miscalculations made long ago, but neither party can fix the situation by itself. Our debt problems will only worsen until legislators of both parties work together to moderate the operation of longstanding provisions of law that no current officeholder authored.

Charles Blahous is the J. Fish and Lillian F. Smith Chair at the Mercatus Center and a Visiting Fellow with the Hoover Institution.

Opinion first published in Meadville Tribune February 15, 2023

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

It’s now or never for school choice everywhere Our public schools are wasting millions of minds week after week while they spend billions upon billions of dollars on Lord knows what.

THIS STORY could bring tears to your eyes. In Baltimore, Maryland, there are 23 schools in which not one single student tested “proficient in math.”

Can we all agree these are schools that aren’t proficient in teaching math — or just about any course, for that matter?

A Fox News investigation calculated that Baltimore spends an average of $21,000 per student. How could the teachers unions possibly spend that much money and accomplish almost no learning?

With a dreadful record like this, it would be natural to think Baltimore must have the worst schools in the nation. Maybe not.

It turns out things may be worse in Illinois.

According to data from the Illinois State Board of Education reviewed by Wirepoints, an investigative journalism center, there were 30 schools last year, 22 of which are in the Chicago area, that failed to lift even one student to gradelevel reading.

Wait, it gets worse. The state has more than 50 schools in which not a single student had achieved grade-level math.

Wouldn’t the proper response be to shut down these schools that are robbing children of an education?

Not in Illinois. In fact, the state educators rated the performance of several of these abysmal schools — are you ready for this? — “commendable.”

This takes grade inflation to a whole new level of absurdity.

Of course, the decision by teachers unions and education administrators to shut down the schools for a year or more didn’t help. But the test results in many of these schools weren’t much better before the pandemic. And don’t blame a shortage of money. Many of these Chicago schools are spending up to $30,000 per child.

What we have here is a case of widespread educational child abuse.

All over the country, our public schools are delivering failing results. Last year, test scores nationally reached a several-decade low. The schools that had by far superior test scores to the public schools in almost every state were Catholic schools.

Now, think about this for a moment. If we really

cared about the future of our children, wouldn’t we just contract out the nation’s thousands of rotten school systems to the Catholic dioceses around the country? Or throw in Jewish schools, charter schools, Montessori schools, home schools — or whatever works?

In most highly populated inner-cities where public schools are especially deficient, the mostly minority children can receive a better education in Catholic schools — at roughly half the cost of the public schools.

If there is a silver lining here, it is that there are some states that have rapidly expanded their school choice programs, allowing the education dollars to follow the students wherever their families choose to send them. Arizona, Florida, Iowa and West Virginia have already done so, with Texas, Tennessee and Utah considering bold moves toward universal school choice for families that can’t afford private alternatives.

Some 40 years ago, a famous national study on the condition of America’s schools warned of a “crisis of mediocrity” in education. Today, things have deteriorated so much that mediocrity would be an improvement and is considered “commendable.”

University of Chicago economists have estimated that the loss of education just from the COVID-19 shutdowns will cost the nation trillions of dollars of lost income and productivity from the diminished earning potential of our children throughout their whole lives.

A mind is a terrible thing to waste. And our public schools are wasting millions of minds week after week while they spend billions upon billions of dollars on Lord knows what. It’s time for bold new approaches. There are thousands of private and religious schools that have proven they know how to teach children, and instead of achieving 0% reading and math proficiency, they reach nearly 100%. Education reform is simple: Put our children, our nation’s greatest assets, in these schools.

Stephen Moore is a senior fellow at the Heritage Foundation and an economist with FreedomWorks.

His latest book is “Govzilla: How the Relentless Growth of Government is Devouring our Economy.”

BE IN TOUCH

Letters addressed to the editor may be sent to letters@nsjonline.com or 1201 Edwards Mill Rd., Suite 300, Raleigh, NC 27607. Letters must be signed; include the writer’s phone number, city and state; and be no longer than 300 words. Letters may be edited for style, length or clarity when necessary. Ideas for op-eds should be sent to opinion@nsjonline.com.

HOW MANY PEOPLE believe, really believe, in freedom of speech? Or, as Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes wrote, not just “free thought for those who agree with us but freedom for the thought that we hate”?

The answer is not as many as I supposed before reading my Washington Examiner colleague Gabe Kaminsky’s series of articles exposing “Disinformation Inc.” Kaminsky’s first article, appearing Feb. 9, described how “well-funded ‘disinformation’ tracking groups are part of a stealth operation blacklisting and trying to defund conservative media, likely costing the news companies large sums in advertising dollars.”

Of course these firms pose as neutral nonpartisan groups whose only goal is to prevent inaccurate information from infecting the political dialogue. But one person’s disinformation is another person’s accurate advocacy.

And as with many media “fact-checkers” (my former Washington Examiner colleague Mark Hemingway wrote a classic takedown of the genre), so with Disinformation Inc., it turns out that all errors and falsehoods in journalism come from one end of the political spectrum. Hint: It’s not the political Left.

One key outfit is the Global Disinformation Index, based in Britain, and two affiliated U.S.-based nonprofit groups. GDI produces a “dynamic exclusion list” rating media outlets on “disinformation risk.” It says it wants to suppress content that “is morally reprehensible or patently inoffensive” and “without redeeming social value.”

Its exclusion list reportedly includes the Washington Examiner, and its 10 “riskiest” outfits are all, to one extent or another, on the political Right. Disclosure: Those which have printed my writings over the years include the American Spectator, the American Conservative, RealClearPolitics and the New York Post.

GDI’s CEO Clare Melford said that topics on which the group identified “disinformation” include COVID vaccination, masking rules, abortion and alleged voter fraud. These are all issues on which there is robust disagreement on both facts and moral values.

Unsurprisingly, GDI gives “least risky” ratings to sources including The New York Times, The Washington Post (for which I worked for seven years), the Associated Press, BuzzFeed and HuffPost. This despite the fact that, as Kaminsky points out, BuzzFeed was the first to publish the fraudulent Steele dossier, charging former President Donald Trump with collusion with Russia, and HuffPost charged that the accurate October 2020 New York Post story on Hunter Biden’s laptop was “Russian disinformation,” even though Biden has subsequently confirmed that the laptop was his.

The conclusions that conservative outlets peddle disinformation and left-leaning outlets are reliable have been cast in doubt by two of the biggest stories of calendar year 2023.

The Columbia Journalism Review’s exhaustive four-part series by former New York Times investigative reporter Jeff Gerth has shown how GDI’s “least risky” media sources generally, and The New York Times in particular, provided misleading and inaccurate coverage of the false charges that Trump colluded with Russia.

And the independent and left-leaning reporter Matt Taibbi and the liberal activist Michael Shellenberger, in investigating Twitter files at the invitation of new owner Elon Musk, showed how now-fired and extremely liberal Twitter executives were more skeptical of the Russian collusion hoax and the charges that the New York Post’s Biden laptop story was “Russian disinformation” than the media that shunned the story.

In other words, there’s a strong argument that the media sources on the honor roll of Disinformation Inc. did more to mislead the public during the Trump presidency and after than the media sources on its S-list.

And the misleaders did so with U.S. government help. As Kaminsky reported, GDI received $100,000 from the State Department’s Global Engagement Center and $250,000 from the congressionally funded National Endowment for Democracy, which had previously done yeoman’s work promoting democracy abroad.

Should the U.S. government be financing suppression of speech?

More encouragingly, there’s some snapback. Two days after Kaminsky’s first article, Microsoft announced that Xandr, an ad firm it owns, was suspending its relationship with GDI. Perhaps Redmond, if not Silicon Valley, is wary of suppressing speech it doesn’t agree with.

Undoubtedly, the principals of the Disinformation Inc. complex Kaminsky has exposed are motivated by Trump’s many misstatements and distortions, and many probably consider him some sort of Hitler.

But Trump’s presidency, however you view it, was not a Nazi regime. And his opponents have twisted and concealed the truth about as often, and arguably more effectively, than he has.

Stamping out robust political debate is an ugly business, the kind of thing that can happen when you suppress the speech of those you disagree with and thoughts you hate. The Founding Fathers had a better idea.

Michael Barone is a senior political analyst for the Washington Examiner, resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and longtime co-author of The Almanac of American Politics.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

NATION & WORLD Drama of McCarthy’s election may open House to more cameras

vened for the State of the Union.

The quirk that increased visibility that week in January was that, technically, at the time there was no speaker. Outgoing Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., consented to three C-SPAN cameras, O’Connell said.

“We want to make it as accessible as possible, and I think cameras do that,” said Democratic Rep. Mark Pocan of Wisconsin, who has 25 co-sponsors for a resolution supporting C-SPAN’s bid.

Beyond the McCarthy drama, cameras offered other insights such as when polar political opposites Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., and Paul Gosar, R-Ariz., had a conversation.

All of Pocan’s co-sponsors are Democrats, which give them little sway with McCarthy, R-Calif.

But there’s been some GOP support for the concept, including from Gaetz.

Rep. Chip Roy, R-Texas, was quoted by CNN as saying, “What the American people were able to see unfold on the floor was a good thing for our democracy and our

republic.”

Given how the speaker’s vote played out in public, it wouldn’t surprise Pocan if McCarthy had little interest in more closely watched proceedings. But that hasn’t necessarily been the case.

McCarthy’s office didn’t necessarily mind how things looked during the vote and is open to greater access on certain occasions.

“We are exploring a number of options to open up the People’s House to ensure a more transparent and accessible Congress for the American people,” said Mark Bednar, a McCarthy spokesman.

The Senate has similar rules, but has gotten less attention because of the McCarthy vote.

Without fanfare, the government-controlled cameras have been offering some different views in recent weeks, observers said. There are eight cameras installed, up from six four years ago.

What’s uncertain is whether C-SPAN will get what it prefers: its own cameras, installed in the

gallery overlooking the House floor, controlled robotically by journalists and available by pool to all news organizations.

McCarthy’s office is likely to move with caution, said Brendan Buck, who worked for then-Speakers John Boehner, R-Ohio, and Paul Ryan, R-Wis., and is now a partner at the communications firm Seven Letter.

“Once you give something, it’s hard to take it back,” he said.

“They have to make sure they are comfortable giving the access, knowing that it may be forever.”

Buck said he believed that some rank-and-file members of Congress would be more resistant than leadership. With Washington increasingly segregated by party, the House floor is one of the few places members have to get to know colleagues they might not normally spend time with, he said.

“They don’t want every conversation they have to have eyes and ears on it,” Buck said. That may not be a good reason to restrict cameras, but it may actually serve democracy, he said.

More cameras might also promote performing rather than legislating, a point Pocan conceded.

“But, honestly, people who are going to cause disruption are going to do it regardless,” he said.

Every time that a new speaker has been elected in the 22 years that O’Connell has been at C-SPAN, the company’s top executive dutifully writes to request access to the chamber by journalists with video cameras, he said.

Yet the speaker’s vote, where C-SPAN’s video was used widely by other television networks and on social media, led Swain to try again.

If changes are made, they would be tied directly to the night McCarthy was elected.

“It was a perfect crystallization of the argument for allowing independent media in the chamber on a more regular basis,” O’Connell said.

period, resulting in an average district-level departure rate of about 11%. Yet some districts were reported to have combined attrition rates (including transfers to other districts) above 25%,” NCPDI’s press release says.

“It doesn’t reflect an exodus of teachers from the profession,” Truitt said of the staffing issues created by a combination of attrition and mobility. “But when you take into account that districts must replace the teachers moving to other districts, that often presents a real challenge, especially when districts must find replacement teachers with the right credentials, right experience and the right background.”

Truitt says the proposed Pathways to Excellence initiative that seeks to revamp state licensure and compensates teachers will help with attrition rates, in particular with first-year teachers,

through higher pay and more opportunity.

“It’s imperative that we provide more support for our beginning teachers,” Truitt said. “We have known that the licensure system in place right now does not consistently provide the level of support to those first-, secondand third-year teachers and this data is the latest proof of that.

The licensure and compensation reform plan that we’re proposing would help remedy this by building in systems of support for beginning teachers early in their careers and would continue systematically throughout.”

Retirements during 2021-22 also declined over the previous school year. 1,114 teachers retired with full benefits last year compared to 1,522 in 2020-21.

The report’s vacancy data for the 2022-23 school year was revised after release. The vacancy report covers positions filled by

individuals not eligible for permanent employment, including long-term substitutes, retired teachers or provisionally licensed teachers.

As of the first day of the 202223 school year, there were roughly 5,540 vacancies compared to 3,792 the previous year. On the 40th day of the 2022-23 year, there were around 5,091 vacancies compared to 3,243 day 40 numbers during the previous school year.

According to NCDPI, longer term staffing needs of schools could be impacted by declining enrollments in the state’s fouryear and alternative education preparation programs.

Enrollments in education prep programs in 2022 dropped from a combined 8,498 candidates in 2021 to 4,941 in 2022. Four-year programs saw at 50% drop off with first-year enrollments declining from 5,545 to 2,478.

The Associated Press THE DIFFERENCE between a government-controlled camera that followed a climactic moment in Rep. Kevin McCarthy’s election as House speaker and one operated by a C-SPAN journalist was like a fuzzy black-and-white picture contrasted with sparkling, clear color.

In one, McCarthy strides up an aisle in the House chamber and disappears from view. A few people in the front turn to see where he’s going. After a minute, and some audible gasps, everyone stands to watch what the camera doesn’t show.

C-SPAN captured the entire scene, including the exasperated McCarthy’s tense, finger-pointing conversation with Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., and a GOP colleague held back from lunging at Gaetz.

Some in Congress and C-SPAN are seizing on that moment to ask that the House floor be more fully open to cameras in the interest of transparency.

There’s been tangible movement in that direction.

McCarthy, as House speaker, has the final word. His office has signaled that changes are being considered. Already, government cameras have broadened their views.

“I’m guardedly optimistic that the speaker would consider independent media coverage, if not permanently, at least on request,” said Ben O’Connell, C-SPAN director of editorial operations.

“We had a lot of positive feedback from both sides of the aisle.”

There’s been little change in how the public has seen House sessions since cameras were first brought in almost 44 years ago, according to Susan Swain, C-SPAN’s co-CEO. For the most part, the podium and lawmakers who come to the front to speak are shown, but little else. There are exceptions when other cameras are allowed, such as when a joint session of Congress is con-

TEACHERS from page A1 ployed in March 2022. That number is lower than the 7,735 teachers that left state employment in the 12 months prior.

The Northampton School district continued to have the highest turnover rate for the third year in a row with 18.92%.

During the 2020-21 school year, the district’s turnover rate was 26.1%. Northampton also had the highest turnover rate in 2010-20 with 28.1%.

The report cites 3,208 teachers remained in the state by teaching in another district; an increase of 316 over the 2020-21 school year. Teachers transferring from one district to another is called “mobility” and was what attributed to some districts reporting high rates of attrition.

“On average, 3.31% of the state’s teachers changed districts during the same 12-month

AP PHOTO

Rep. Richard Hudson, R-N.C., left, pulls Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., back as they talk with Rep. Matt Gaetz, R-Fla., and others during the 14th round of voting for speaker as the House meets for the fourth day to try and elect a speaker and convene the 118th Congress in Washington, Friday, Jan. 6, 2023. At right is Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C.

Virginia, Maryland, vie for new FBI headquarters Springfield, Va. Virginia lawmakers are making their final push to build a new FBI headquarters in their state, while Maryland officials try to persuade the federal government to put it in Maryland.

The Washington Post reports that the jockeying is happening as the General Services Administration gets closer to a decision in the decadeplus-long effort.

In a letter to the GSA and FBI, Gov. Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, and most of the Virginia congressional delegation made a detailed case in hopes of swaying the federal government to prefer a site in Springfield, Virginia, instead of locations in Landover and Greenbelt in Maryland.

Virginia lawmakers also sought to compete more aggressively with Maryland on one component that Maryland has sought to elevate: that building the FBI in their community advances racial equity.

FBI spokeswoman Sofia Kettler said in a statement that proximity to Quantico was included because the FBI Academy “is a core part of FBI day-to-day operations, today and in the future.”

The Maryland and Virginia consultations with the GSA are expected to begin the week of Feb. 27 or March 6.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Sturgeon’s exit leaves Scottish independence path unclear London With the resignation of First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, the decades-long campaign by Scottish nationalists to secede from the United Kingdom is losing its star politician and strongest communicator, at a time when efforts to hold a new vote on independence are at an impasse.

The Times of London said Sturgeon’s departure was a “huge boost to unionism,” and a “generational setback” to the independence cause. Financial Times columnist Robert Shrimsley said simply: “Nicola Sturgeon ran out of road.”

Sturgeon took the U.K. by surprise when she announced her resignation last week after eight years in office, saying she knew “in my head and in my heart” it was time to leave.

She will remain first minister for several more weeks while the Scottish National Party picks a new leader, a job for which there is no clear favorite. Potential successors include Angus Robertson, a Sturgeon ally who serves as Scotland’s constitution secretary, Finance Secretary Kate Forbes and Health Secretary Humza Yousaf.

Voting for the new party leader will open March 12 and close March 27.

Scottish voters opted by 55% to 45% to remain in the U.K. in a 2014 referendum that was billed as a oncein-a-generation decision.

Recent polls suggest Scots are about evenly split on the issue of independence. John Kampfner of think tank Chatham House said that with Sturgeon gone it’s possible “some of the air has gone out of the bubble” of the independence movement.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Raleigh proves worthy of Stadium Series, B2

CHRIS O’MEARA | AP PHOTO

Ricky Stenhouse Jr. celebrates after winning Sunday’s Daytona 500.

Stenhouse Jr. latest surprise Daytona 500 winner

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

The JTG Daugherty Racing driver won his third career Cup race and first since 2017

AAC releases ’23 football slate with 6 new schools Irving, Texas The American Athletic Conference released its 2023 football schedule that includes the league’s six incoming teams, including the Charlotte 49ers.

Each of the 14 AAC teams will play eight conference games in a single‑division format. The top two teams in the standings will play in the conference championship game on Dec. 2.

Florida Atlantic, North Texas, Rice, UAB and UTSA join Charlotte in officially becoming AAC members on July 1. The move from Conference USA will be completed at the same time that current AAC members Cincinnati, Houston and UCF depart for the Big 12. The 49ers will play their first AAC game at SMU on Sept. 30, host Navy in their first AAC home game on Oct. 14, and play at new in‑state conference for East Carolina on Oct. 21.

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NC State falls out of AP men’s poll Indianapolis A week after NC State saw its 96‑week run of being ranked in The Associated Press women’s basketball poll end, the men’s team also fell out of the Top 25.

The Wolfpack (21‑7, 11‑6 ACC), who lost at Syracuse last Tuesday before beating UNC on Sunday in Raleigh, received the most votes of any team that did not make it into the rankings, claiming 54 to No. 25 Texas A&M’s 125 in this week’s rankings. Duke (20‑8, 11‑6 ACC), which has won three straight, received three votes.

The Wolfpack women (18‑9, 8‑8 ACC), who beat rival UNC last week but then lost at Virginia Tech as the No. 23 team in the nation, received 30 votes in this week’s poll, one shy of being tied for 25th. The Tar Heels (19‑8, 10‑6 ACC) fell five spots to No. 19, while Duke (23‑4, 13‑3 ACC) stayed at No. 9.

JEFF LEWIS | AP PHOTO

The Panthers have hired Rams assistant head coach Thomas Brown to be their next offensive coordinator.

Reich, Panthers pick Brown as next OC The new Carolina coach has assembled a variety of experience levels and coaching schemes on offense

this guy,” McVay said of Brown back in 2020. “I’d be so happy for him if he continues to ascend but sad for the Rams. I think he can do whatever he wants. I think he’s definitely a coordinator. I think he’s got head coach potential in terms of his leadership and the

By Shawn Krest way he relates to guys. This guy’s North State Journal a great coach. I don’t think there’s FRANK REICH became the any sort of ceiling or limitations on first Carolina Panthers head coach what he’s able to accomplish at this with a background on the offensive level.”

Brown interviewed for other side of the ball. His vision for the offensive coordinator Panthers’ offense has and head coaching now started to take jobs the last two offshape as Reich has asseasons, and the Rams sembled the key parts “This guy’s a attempted to retain of the 2023 team’s ofgreat coach. him, although McVay fensive coaching staff. didn’t offer him the Reich’s assistants I don’t think team’s vacant coordiinclude a diverse mixture of experience there’s any sort nator job when he was considering leaving for levels and schemes, of ceiling or instead hirwhich should give limitations on Carolina, ing an external coordiCarolina a variety of what he’s able nator candidate, as has approaches on offense going forward. to accomplish” been his policy as head coach.

The biggest hire Brown served as was at offensive coorRams coach offensive coordinator dinator, where Reich at the college level for lured up-and-comSean McVay on Miami for three seaing assistant ThomThomas Brown sons and has coached as Brown away from running backs for five Sean McVay and the college teams, including Georgia, Rams.

Brown has three years of NFL Wisconsin and South Carolina.

Brown was a college and NFL experience, winning a Super Bowl with Los Angeles and coaching running back, and his extensive running backs and tight ends work with the ground game will while serving two years as McVay’s pair with Duce Staley, one of Reassistant head coach.

“I think that there’s no limit for See PANTHERS, page B4

Kyle Larson was collected in the race-ending crash after he jumped out of line too early in an attempt to win the race. His disappointment was alleviated by Stenhouse’s victory.

By Jenna Fryer “Happy that Ricky won. I’m suThe Associated Press per happy. That’s all I could think DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — about after I crashed, waiting to Ricky Stenhouse Jr. won the Day- hear that he won,” Larson said. tona 500 in double overtime and “He’s one of my best friends, so I under caution Sunday night in was like yelling into my helmet the longest running of “The Great when I helped push him to the lead there. I was hoping it was going to American Race.”

The two overtimes pushed the stay green so it would have been 65th running of the race to a record me or him win.

“I can’t wait to go get changed 212 laps — a dozen laps beyond the and go give him a big scheduled distance and hug because he is one of a whopping 530 miles. my great buddies.”

Stenhouse’s win in Reigning Cup chama Chevrolet for JTG “There’s pion Joey Logano finDaugherty Racing — a ished second in a Ford single-car team owned nothing like for Team Penske, which

by Tad and Jodi Geswinning the won the race last year chickter along with former NBA player Brad Daytona 500. with Austin Cindric.

“Second is the worst, Daugherty — was the That’s why man,” Logano said. third of his career. JTG it stings so “Congratulations to is the first single-car team to win the Daytomuch finishing Ricky. There’s nothing like winning the Dayna 500 since The Wood second.” tona 500. That’s why it Brothers Racing did it stings so much finishwith Trevor Bayne in 2011.

Joey Logano, who ing second.”

Christopher Bell Jodi Geschickter was runner-up to was third in a Toyota is the first female car owner to win the Day- Ricky Stenhouse Jr. for Joe Gibbs Racing and followed by Chris tona 500, while DaughBuescher in a Ford for erty, who left the track earlier Sunday with an eye irrita- RFK Racing and pole-sitter Alex tion, is the first black car owner to Bowman of Hendrick Motorsports in a Chevrolet. It marked the first win the race.

Stenhouse’s only other victories time the pole-sitter has finished came in 2017, at Talladega and the in the top five since Bill Elliott in 2001. summer race at Daytona.

Action sports star Travis PasNow the 35-year-old from Olive Branch, Mississippi, has a re- trana finished 11th in his Daytopeat win at Daytona in NASCAR’s na 500 debut, and Kevin Harvick biggest race of the season. And it was 12th in his final Daytona 500. came in his first race reunited with Harvick is retiring at the end of the crew chief Mike Kelly, who guided year.

Kyle Busch dropped to 0 for 18 Stenhouse to a pair of Xfinity Series championships earlier in his in the Daytona 500 but contended for his new Richard Childress Raccareer.

“I think this whole offseason ing team. He was the leader ahead Mike just preached how much we of teammate Austin Dillon with all believed in each other. They left three laps remaining in regulame a note in the car that said they tion when a spin by Daniel Suarez believe in me and to go get the job brought out the caution and sent done,” Stenhouse said. “Man, this the race to overtime.

“Back in 1998, that would be the is unbelievable. This was the site of my last win back in 2017. We’ve win, boys,” Busch radioed his team worked really hard. We had a cou- in deliberate reference to how the ple shots last year to get a win and late Dale Earnhardt won his only Daytona 500. There was no overfell short.

“It was a tough season, but man, we got it done, Daytona 500.”

See RACING, page B4

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

B2

Hurricanes, Raleigh hit mark with St “We talked before the game that we had a chance to create an awesome memory, and we did.”

Sebastian Aho, Hurricanes center

Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour walks on the Carter-Finley Stadium field during Saturday night’s Stadium Series game.

The region again showed why it’s one of hockey’s most vibrant markets

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal RALEIGH — It’s been a while since the Carolina Hurricanes have been able to show off at a big event.

At Saturday’s Stadium Series game at NC State’s Carter-Finley Stadium, the team — in its 25th season in North Carolina since relocating from Hartford — reminded the hockey world that it puts on as good of a show as any team in the NHL. The result — a 4-1 win over the visiting Washington Capitals — was simply the cherry on top of an event that was postponed due to the pandemic but proved to be a triumphant victory for the Hurricanes, the Triangle and hockey in the Sun Belt.

“We talked before the game that we had a chance to create an awesome memory,” center Sebastian Aho said, “and we did. For us players, the whole organization, the fan base, the whole city — it’s awesome.”

There were concerns in the lead-up to the game about weather, traffic, ice conditions and the later-than-expected opening of the parking lots. But when the players lined up for the opening faceoff, the grills and smokers in the lots were out, the stands were full of 56,961 fans, and the temperature — in the low 40s — proved perfect for an outdoor game.

If the ice was an issue, it didn’t appear to be a problem for Martin Necas, who first showcased his speed and then dazzled the crowd with a backward-skating, between-the-legs effort that didn’t result in a goal but drew both a penalty and the awe of the crowd.

“I felt like it was almost better than some rinks where we play usually,” Necas said. “It didn’t really feel like we were playing outside. It was better than the standard, I would say.”

And even if the ice — which was much improved compared to Friday evening’s rain-delayed practice — wasn’t quite that good in everyone’s eyes, the players found ways to look past that.

“You score a goal,” said Aho of Necas, “it makes the ice a little better.”

Necas’ goal came on a one-timer from the left circle just before the midway point of the game, a shot that was eerily similar to the ones Alex Ovechkin — the Capitals captain who missed the game following the death of his father — has scored several times against the Hurricanes. Necas followed that with an assist on a 2-on-1 with Teuvo Teravainen, and the rout was on.

“They played at a different gear,” Capitals coach Peter Laviolette said, “and then they won most of the battles.”

Despite the chilly temperature, the crowd won its fight with the cold weather and provided an electric atmosphere.

Frederik Andersen, meanwhile, was cool as could be.

The Hurricanes goaltender allowed one goal on 25 shots, avenging his 2018 Stadium Series loss to the Capitals in Annapolis, Maryland.

He said in the weeks before the Stadium Series game that his favorite of the three outdoor games he had experienced was at Dodger Stadium in 2014 with Anaheim. That day, Andersen watched from the bench as his goalie partner Jonas Hiller shut out the Kings.

After Saturday, he has a new favorite.

“I think this one’s tough to beat,” he said. “Just the anticipation around here, the fan base — they deserved this for a long time. They showed up tonight and just performed as well as we did on the ice, so it’s cool to be able to reward them with a win.”

Necas in particular found yet another level again in his breakout season, finishing with three points and further solidifying the faith Brind’Amour has in the 24-year-old.

“We all knew it was there, and now he’s really starting to show it,” Brind’Amour said. “It was great for him to show it on a big stage.”

And it wasn’t just Saturday. The week showcased the countless ways the Triangle has embraced hockey. From the downtown fan festival on Friday and tailgating on Saturday to the once-in-a-lifetime chance for local youth hockey players to skate on the outdoor rink in the days after the main event, the past week was chock full of proof that Raleigh is, indeed, a hockey town.

NC State Chancellor Randy Woodson agreed, and he seemed ready to do it all over again.

“It’s great for Raleigh, great for North Carolina, great for NC State. … We told (the NHL) we’d like to do it every three to five years,” he said.

His comments came in the minutes before the NC State Icepack took the ice to face the rival Tar Heels in a battle of club hockey teams — one that drew an estimated 24,000 fans.

It was the final act that proved, yet again, Raleigh was more than up to the task.

“It was something that all of us won’t ever forget,” Necas said. “And, obviously, when you get the win, it feels much better. You know every second of it was a time you enjoy. You try to focus on the game, but you still feel the fans and the energy.

“It was my first outdoor game, and it was unbelievable.”

His coach agreed.

“Not having experienced one of those,” Brind’Amour said, “I don’t how it could be much better.”

Hurricanes alumnus Chad LaRose (59) hugs Brooks Brind’Amour after he scored a goal while former player Shane Willis (25) and Brooks’ father, Hurricanes coach Rod Brind’Amour, join in the celebration during Monday’s Alumni Game at Carter-Finley Stadium.

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

B3

tadium Series A view of Carter-Finley Stadium during the NHL Stadium Series game held Saturday between the Carolina Hurricanes a nd Washington Capitals.

The Hurricanes won 4-1.

ALL PHOTOS BY STAN GILLILAND | FOR NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Hurricanes forward Jordan Martinook protects the puck while defended

by Capitals defenseman Martin Fehervary during Saturday’s Stadium Series game.

Herman leads Icepack at Frozen Finley

By Cory Lavalette North State Journal RALEIGH — The NC State Icepack club hockey team not only go to have their moment on the outdoor rink at Carter-Finley Stadium, they made the most of it.

Freshman Zach Herman scored in the first minute of the game on a breakaway, on the power play in the second period, and capped off his hat trick with 3½ minutes remaining in the game to lead the Icepack to a 7-3 win over rival UNC in front of an estimated 24,000 fans in the Frozen Finley game on Monday.

“I had two, but then they pulled it within two,” Herman said of the Tar Heels cutting the lead to 4-2 early in the third period on UNC forward Dan O’Hear’s second goal of the game. “And so at that point, I’m sitting there and I’m like, ‘I don’t care if I have zero right now, can we just get out of this game on top?’ … But, obviously, it’s always in the back of your head. I didn’t think it went in at first. And then I turned around and, you know, people were screaming.”

It was another triumph in a week of wins for the Wolfpack, who knocked off the Tar Heels in wrestling and men’s and women’s basketball in the past week while also hosting the Hurricanes’ Stadium Series game against the Capitals on Saturday.

“I think this is just the cherry on top to a hockey weekend in Raleigh that I’m not sure anyone really ever could have imagined,” Icepack coach Tim Healy said.

Left, Legendary NC State basketball players Dereck Whittenburg, left, and David Thompson — who won NCAA titles with the Wolfpack in 1983 and 1974, respectively — introduce the Hurricanes before the Stadium Series game on Saturday. Above, Capitals forward Anthony Mantha and Hurricanes forward Jordan Martinook fight during the second period of Saturday’s Stadium Series game.

The NC State Icepack club hockey team celebrates after scoring during their 7-3 win over rival UNC during Monday night’s Frozen Finley outdoor game.

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

B4 WEDNESDAY

2.22.23 TRENDING

Red McCombs: The former owner of two NBA teams and an NFL franchise died Sunday at his home in San Antonio. He was 95. McCombs owned the NBA’s Spurs twice, the Nuggets and the NFL’s Vikings.

McCombs also owned various businesses that included auto dealerships, the oil and gas companies and real estate fims, cattle ranches and radio stations. McCombs also played a big role in Formula One’s return to the U.S. as one of the largest investors in the Circuit of the Americas in Austin.

Meyers Leonard: The 7‑foot center is getting another chance at the NBA nearly two years after he used an anti‑Semitic slur while playing a video game that was being livestreamed.

The Bucks have reportedly agreed on a 10‑day contract with Leonard, opening the door for him to play in an NBA game for the first time since January 2021. For his career, Leonard has averaged 5.6 points and 3.9 rebounds on 48% shooting and 39% from 3‑point range with Portland and Miami.

Lance Stroll: The Aston Martin driver has been ruled out of preseason Formula One testing this week after he was injured in a bicycle accident. The team says the Canadian driver was hurt while training in Spain but didn’t give any more details of how the incident happened or the nature Stroll’s injuries. The team expects a “quick recovery” and there will be an update on his health before the Bahrain Grand Prix starts the season next week.

PANTHERS from page B1 ich’s first coaching hires for the Panthers. Another former NFL running back and a running backs coach for more than a decade with the Eagles (where he worked on the same staff as Reich) and Lions, Staley interviewed for offensive coordinator positions and was rumored to be a candidate for that job with the Panthers after he was hired in an unspecified role early in Reich’s term.

Both coaches’ emphasis on the run game fits with Reich’s priority and the Panthers’ current roster.

The team leaned heavily on the run

Beyond the box score POTENT QUOTABLES

NBA

Celtics star Jayson Tatum put on a record‑setting show Sunday in Salt Lake City, scoring an All‑Star Game‑record 55 points, and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s squad ended LeBron James’ hold on All‑Star captain supremacy by beating Team LeBron 184‑175. Tatum had 27 of his points in the third quarter, another All‑Star Game record for any period. The former Duke standout was the first pick by Antetokounmpo in the starters’ portion of the All‑Star draft.

ADRIAN KRAUS | AP PHOTO

“It’s not a rivalry, right?

So why would I care?”

NC State basketball coach Kevin Keatts on if the Wolfpack’s 77‑69 over UNC on Sunday was extra meaningful.

MATT KELLEY | AP PHOTO

“It’s been strange to me.”

Richard Petty on his team being stripped of the Petty name and rebranded Legacy Motor Club by fellow seven‑time Cup Series champion Jimmie Johnson.

ROB GRAY | AP PHOTO

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WNBA

CARLOS OSORIO | AP PHOTO

ELAINE THOMPSON | AP PHOTO

The Michigan‑Michigan State rivalry paused Saturday night before the game between the schools’ men’s basketball teams as the Wolverines honored the victims of the shooting that killed three MSU students and injured five more.

The U‑M band playing the Spartans’ alma mater while Crisler Arena was dimly lit with green and white lights.

Brittney Griner is headed back to the Phoenix Mercury. Griner, who was a free agent, re‑signed with the Mercury on a one‑year contract. The 32‑year‑old, who spent 10 months in Russian jail on drug charges, last played for Phoenix in 2021, averaging 20.5 points and 9.5 rebounds in helping the team reach the WNBA Finals.

NHL

PRIME NUMBER

226 The team record for games played with the Panthers held by long snapper J.J. Jansen, who re‑signed with the team on Monday and will return for a 15th season with the franchise.

game last season and, with Carolina unlikely to be able to move up to select a game-breaking quarterback in this year’s draft, it’s likely the Panthers will need to rely on running the ball behind a game-manager quarterback.

Despite that, the Rams and Eagles offenses, where Brown and Staley cut their NFL coaching teeth, were known for being creative and aggressive with the passing game, so Panthers fans shouldn’t expect a “cloud of dust” offense this season.

Given Brown’s relative lack of NFL coaching experience, Reich also brought in some veteran coach-

MATT SLOCUM | AP PHOTO

ing talent to help with the game planning. Longtime NFL and college head coach Jim Caldwell, who interviewed for the Panthers’ head coaching job this offseason as well, was brought in to serve as a special assistant and report directly to Reich.

Caldwell is a veteran of more than 110 NFL games as head coach, and he served as offensive coordinator for the Ravens. He’s also been quarterbacks coach for four different NFL teams, winning a Super Bowl with Tony Dungy’s Colts and John Harbaugh’s Ravens.

Caldwell’s hiring means that

three of the nine men who interviewed for the Panthers’ head coaching job are now on the staff, with Reich and Caldwell joining Ejiro Evero, who was hired as Reich’s defensive coordinator. Evero and Brown also worked together on McVay’s Rams staff, giving both coordinators roots in the same coaching tree.

Reich rounded out his offensive staff by hiring Josh McCown as quarterbacks coach. McCown spent nearly two decades as an NFL quarterback, mainly playing a backup role with a dozen different teams, including the Panthers in 2008 and

RACING from page B1

Tyler Reddick, front, Kyle Larson (5) and Erik Jones slide on the grass after colliding in Turn 4 during Sunday’s Daytona 500.

PHELAN M. EBENHACK | AP PHOTO

Blackhawks captain Jonathan Toews, who hasn’t played since Jan. 28, said he is dealing with symptoms of long COVID‑19 and chronic immune response syndrome after he was placed on injured reserve last week.

Toews, 34, missed the 2020‑21 season with what he described as chronic immune response syndrome. After spending his entire career with Chicago, Toews is eligible for free agency after this season.

time then and Earnhardt won under caution.

Busch wound up 19th after the race-ending crash in the second overtime.

“I think this is the first time I led lap 200, so I wish it was 1998 rules.

But, no, it’s just par for the course, just used to it and come down here every year to just find out when and where I’m going to crash and what lap I come out of the care center,” Busch said. “Who won? I don’t even know who lucked into it.”

Busch was told Stenhouse was

2009. He also played for the Eagles in 2019 and 2020, when Staley was on the staff.

Caldwell and McCown’s background in the passing game will help add perspective to the two former running backs — Staley and Brown — also contributing to the Panthers’ offensive scheming.

The team will now turn its attention to the roster as the NFL free agency and draft prep process hit high gear over the coming weeks.

But Reich has taken a big step forward in bringing the team into contention with a deep, diverse coaching staff.

the victor.

“There you have it,” he replied.

Seven-time NASCAR champion Jimmie Johnson made his return to the series and ran inside the top 15 for most of the race. He was collected in one of the crashes in overtime and finished 31st. Johnson has returned from two years racing in the IndyCar Series as part owner of Legacy Motor Club and he plans to enter a handful of races.

Brad Keselowski led a race-high 42 laps but finished 22nd. He declined to speak to reporters after dropping to 0 for 14 in a race he desperately wants to win.

The 3 big questions nob

A7

normal

WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home hina lied about the origin of the ONE THING IS CERTAIN; after thisthanks COVID-19 virus cavalierofmanner in which C orders to local ordissipates state governments,The a majority Americans THIS WEEK, virus, according to members ofTHE theand fede ed to tell the world there were only “THIS IS DA around the globe and in the United States, China will pay for this covered up its spread tr are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.” and state and local governments, Americans have ldwide panic, economic collapse and in it” (Psalm 118:24). catastrophe one way or another.

3,341 related deaths has led to wo Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. ce or stay-at-home fallen into place. I understand the seriousness of the virus thetoneed the curve in the novel coronavirus outbreak.

The e eing thrown out of work.

I know that during Inand order put the crisis causedVirginia’s

by Chinastay-at-home in perspective, zero millions of Americans needlessly orders go into June. ty of Americans to take precautions, but I’m uneasy with how people who simply ask muted — after all, trends can easily reverse — but ayer at least $2.4 trillion in added working from home worldwide pandemics can trace their source to theCarolina, United States over Gov.The has cost the U.S. taxp Here in North Democratic Roycrisis Cooper stated during normal.” questions about the data, and when things can start getting back to have abided by recommendations and orders.

The Reserve backup liquidity to the be glad” the Bible our 231-year history. At least fourainrecent the 20th century alone be that “we debt plus trillions more Federa coronavirus press can briefing just don’t know yet”asifin the of this month. are treated in some circles with contempt. to flu,” stay 1977 at home; they’ve practiced socialthe distancing hed U.S. dollar were notnormal the reserve and dad, Easter directly traced to China: 1957 “Asian flu,” 1968 “Hong Kong markets and financial outlets.

If th will extend into May. Since when did state’s stay-at-home orders They’re treated as though we as a society simply must accept flu” without they’ve donned masks. und any of these emergency have to be thankful “Russian and the 2002 SARS outbreak.

There is evidence that the currency, we would not be able toa Perhaps If he it, questions should be asked as to the Wedoes needdecide to extend WALTER E. WILLIAMS questioning per stated during question what the government tells us about when it’s massive safe to begin the The result: a reduction inwithout expected hospitalizati Lenten and of rampant inflation and currency pandemic.

1918 “Spanish flu” pandemic also had its origins in China. measures immediate fear justification for it. And the answers should not be vague ones like “we COVID-19 know yet” if the process of returning back to normalcy.

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As I celebra and honesty originated in at Wuhan Province probably from the completely China has to pay for their aberr provide a all levels It will need to be explained in detail to the people of this state who sked as to the And the longer stay-at-home orders are in place all over and the unsanitary wet markets. administration, theand expected need for hosp plomacy has obviouslyquestions. not worked Corinthians 1:4, whi Chernobyl. unregulated believe it Trump came of at a home economic financial means.

D fromSome our to are being told remain joblessout and message offor an undetermined become a ue ones like “we country, and the stricter some of them get in states, such as Michigan, peak outbreak was revised down by over 120,000, orld of 21st century health, hygiene affliction, so that we biowarfare lab run by the communist Chinese army. to bring China into the civilized scientific amount of timeexperts why models predicting hundreds of cases w hope that we13,000 willof thousands bad thing? thethe more people, sitting at home feeling isolated and/or anxious about ventilators by nearly and the number of ov unist regimes never take blame affliction, withcomm the co Until China adopts rigorous verifiable policing and regulation of and fair trade.

Totalitarian are reliable.

— we need to once again enjoy of this state who when they can get back to providing for their families, will demand August by nearly 12,000. rse, because that is not what God.” That is what their food safety and health protocols, American business has no other or express sincere regret and rem To know date, what I’ve gone what the state has asked and then they along with ndetermined answers.

Here’s the problem: We still don’t know the answ sporting events, take advantage of every weakness If you are celebrat choice than tofree build redundant manufacturing totalitarian do. They citizens mandated thatplants we do,elsewhere but alongpurely the way I’ve also had governments questions about housands of cases Leaders at the local and state levels should be as forthcoming as they know, what they questions that will allow the economy to reopen. pushing until they win or the reflect on this concerts, family for national security safety reasons as well supply andleaders delivery they find in adversaries andmessa keep the data.

StateasRepublican have, too. living inand a free can be with those answers — and again, not vague answers, but concerns. answer First, what is the true coronavirus fatality and rate?c God’s example don’t and when reliability adversaries push back. gatherings, Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there is AMERICA’S COLLEGES are rife with society edhappens and then with details that give their statements believability. important because That it determines whether certain nt such asThe the Chernobyl this difficult Th The most direct waywere to make China “pay”hope for this is to offer is, unless an exogenous they to disaster corruption. financial squeeze resulting sometimes a disturbing tendency among people to treat thosetime. ev church some services questions about We should all continue to do what we can to keep our families, be open or closed, whether we ought to pursue — S elieve that event, not the Staropportunities Wars confident we will em supposed from COVID-19 offers for a U.S. tax credits to companies whosimply willknow source at least half of their meltdown in 1986.

Some experts what theythe data and asking questioning when we can start getting back and many more Sponsored by ourselves, and our communities safe.

But we should also still continue more liberalized society that presumes wide sprea Sponsored by the dissolution of the Soviet In thisled same spiritt bit of remediation.

Let’sUnion first examine what production back in the States.

There is though approximately programor of are Reagan, directly to do, lastUnited I to normal they are$120 conspiracy theorists people who don’t.as afterdown our own asked, there to of ask questions about the data, because while reasonable stay-at-home ought to lock further. neighbors helping ne mightisbe the root academic corruption, billion worth checked. of American direct investment in plants and equipment in 1989. otherwise don’t care if they get themselves or others sick. title of a recent study, to treatsuggested those by the measures are understandable, they should also have an date. direct investment in the U.S. is about $65We’ve seen rates — Concord, the number of Cd temporary hernobyl.

In a high inexpiration China. Chinese billion by case fatality Perhaps COVID-19 China’s Since when did questioning government at all levels become aisbad “Academic Grievance Studies and the North State Journal for Wednesday, April 15, 2020 start getting back This is all new to Americans, and it is not normal.

Not in any way, the number of identified COVID-19 cases — but bp ady talking about the possibility to buy aare 3-D sacrifices are society comparison.

Senators inmoney Washington alr thing? That is what free citizens living in a free were supposed Corruption of Scholarship.”

The study was we should remain vigilant and are people who shape, or form.

So while stay safe, at and the denominator are likely wrong.

We don’t kn debt we owe them as one way to get health$1.2 caretrillion workers An investment tax credit of 30% U.S. investment in China ino over. of China forgiving toon do,half lastof I checked. done by Areo, an opinion and analysis same time we shouldn’t get comfortable with this so-called “newbillion, applied to repatriated American manufacturing people have actually died of coronavirus.

Some the sou yick. have caused the US. the Don’t hold your today, or $60 China to “pay” for the damage EV charging digital magazine.

By station the way, Areo is short My first concern as we go along in all this, of course, is my family. I’m see” become badbut ask normal.” number beenbreath overestimated, given that classifi to happen your elected foraAreopagitica, a speech delivered by investment to the U.S. would costworried the U.S.about Treasury billion in has waiting Ifor a Chinese them$18 catching the virus, and I’m worried will.

After “Jubi manufacturer y were supposed Not one little bit. of death, particularly among elderly patients, untableJohn in tangible financial Milton in defense ways of freefor speech. tax revenue spread over a few years. $18 billion lost revenue hold Chinacan acc suffering fromin the H1N1 virusis(swine flu) representatives during the 2009topandemic, Authors Helen Pluckrose, James A. sources suggest the number is dramatically under decimal dust compared to the $6 I’ve trillion+ Marshall Plan we are now this disaster. picks Durham for been trying to take extra precautions, because all of this brings up Lindsay and Peter Boghossian say has that also written under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah e, is my family.

Stacey Matthews manyas people are dying home. d to operate as I’m responsible citizens of undertaking to save our own economy, notmany of defeated enemies in the It is at about timenot they expect way too memories of a painful experience I’d prefer to are repeat. something has gone drastically wrong first US plant ed I will.

After and is a regular contributor to RedState and Legal Insurrection.

Even more importantly, we have no clue how ma ation. past. the world like any other modern n But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has in academia, especially within certain 2009 pandemic, actually have coronavirus. Some scientists suggest China has been cheating, stealing, pirating and pillaging American fields within the DURHAM —humanities.

KempowerThey call of this brings up “grievance of identified business now for the past 30 years. They have made no secret that theycases could be an order of magnitude these fields studies,” where Inc., a manufacturer of Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill,coronavirus senior opinion efer notscholarship to repeat. is not so much number of people who have had and n based upon intend to replace the U.S. as the premier superpower in the world and charging stations for electric st everyone has finding truth but upon attending to replace the dollar as the reserve currency with their renminbi. vehicles, will create more

business & economy

Fixingn.c. college corruption FAST

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social grievances. Grievance scholars thanstudents, 300 jobsadministrators as it locates and other bully a new manufacturing departments into adhering to their worldview.

The worldview they promote is Jason facility in Durham County. neither scientificis nor rigorous. Grievance EDITORIAL | STACEY MATTHEWS The company planning studies consist disciplines to invest $41 of million into such as PHOTO VIA AP sociology, anthropology, gender studies, the project, demonstrating COLUMN | REP. RICHARD HUDSON queer studies, sexuality and critical race Reynaldo Gonzalez cries while remembering his daughter Nohemi Gonzalez, who was killed

by Islamic State gunmen in Paris, at her again the growing studies. funeral at the Calvary Chapel in Downey, Calif., Dec. 4, 2015. A lawsuit against YouTube from the family of Nohemi Gonzalez is at the momentum North In 2017 and of 2018, authors Pluckrose, center of a closely watched Supreme Court case being argued Tuesday, Feb. 21, 2023.

Carolina’s clean energy Lindsay and Boghossian started submitting economy.bogus academic papers to academic in cultural, her home in Roswell, New Mexico.

“Northjournals Carolina’s global queer, race, gender, as fat aand sexuality studies Her daughter was a 23-year-old reputation clean energy to determine if they would pass peer senior at California State Universimanufacturing powerhouse “THIS IS DAY the lord has made, let usthe re seriousness of and the be virus and the review accepted for need publication.

WITH MOST STATES under either shelter-in-place or stay-at-home ty,THE Long Beach, who was spending fallen into place.

I understand continues todubious grow,” said Acceptance of research in it” (Psalm 118:24). y with how people who simply ask that a semester in Paris studying indusorders thanks to local or state governments, a majority of Americans to take precautions, but I’m uneas Governor Cooper.

“Electric editors found sympathetic to their trial during design.

Her communicathis last challenging time of soc n thingsjournal can start getting back to are having to adjust to what is being called the “new normal.”I know that questions about the data, and whe vehicle charging stations intersectional or postmodern leftist vision tion with her mother munworking from home or losing awas job,ait may becircle diffi with contempt.

Some of these orders extend at least through the end of this month. normal are treated in some ofare theaworld would prove the problem of key component exchange money via be glad” asdane the Bible tells about us to do.

However, as aasC a societylow simply must accept without Virginia’s stay-at-home orders go into June. treated though we academic standards.

Facebook,They’re two days beforeas the atof our transportation and dad, the Easter holiday hasthe reminded me oftelj s us about Several when it’s safefake to begin thepapers The high court is taking Here in North Carolina, Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper stated during question what government of the research tacks, Gonzalez said. ter, Facebook and Google, which infrastructure and we hopeful for, notheven m alcy. were accepted for publication. The Fatits first hard look at online aowns recent coronavirus press briefing that “we just don’t knowhave yet”to if be thethankful of returning back in to the norm The process legaland arguments have YouTube. welcome these high-wage Lenten and “Congress never could pandemic. s, and we have journal the right to ask those Studies published a hoax paper ing to do with what happened in state’s stay-at-home orders will extend into May. No. The government works for The tech industry is facing critlegal protections harmful Sincefor when did clean that argued the jobs term bodybuilding was me, Paris. my faith is an important part my dai home orders areenergy in place allthat over the Easter seasons Instead, they turn theofstay-aticism left for not doing If hefrom doesthe decide to extend it, questions should be asked to the questions.

And theon longer have anticipated whenas itFor content as well as censorship Kempower brings to our questioning andas should be replaced reading of a law that was enacted enough to remove harmful conmaking.

As I celebrated Easter with my family, hem get exclusionary in states, such Michigan, justification for it.

And the answers should not be vague ones like “we country, and the stricter some ofI tr provide a of political speech passed Section 230 that the “at the dawn of the dot-com era,” state.” with “fat bodybuilding, a fat-inclusive tent from theout internet and from of government Corinthians 1:4, which reminds us our Lord “com eling isolated and/or anxious as about must do this of an abundance caution.” the more people, sitting at home f message of develop in the as Justice Clarence Thomas, a critpoliticized performance.”

One reviewer Kempower Corporation, the right for censoring conserva- internet would affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those ng for their families, will demand at all levels It will need to be explained in detail to the people of this state who when they can get back to providi said, “I thoroughly enjoyed reading this hope thatand we will ic of broad legal immunity, wrote in tive speech. Now, the high court is ways a leading DC charging it has that itaffliction, would with the comfort which we ourselves ar are being told its to first remain home for an undetermined article and believe it has an importantThe Associated become a 2020. answers. poised to take hardjobless look atand atonce Press technology provider again enjoy God.” vels should be as forthcoming contribution to make to as thethey field and this amount of time why models predicting hundreds of thousands of cases Leaders atpassed, the local and state le be used by terrorists in the When the law was 5 milonline legal protections. headquartered inbut Finland, bad thing? sporting events, If you are celebrating the Easter season, I—urge again, not vague answers, answer journal.” lion people used AOL, then a leadare reliable. can be with those answers and A win for Gonzalez’s family WASHINGTON, D.C. — Islamic ways it has. manufactures, and “Our Struggle Is My Struggle: Solidarity That American is what col- could reflect on this message and be comforted, so that ents believability. concerts, family ing online service provider, Tom wreakI’ve havoc onalong the internet, State gunmen killed To date, gone with what the state has asked and then with details that give their statem distributes a variety Reply to Feminism anwide Intersectional Wheeler, the formerallall chairman say Google and many Yelp, the way lege student Nohemi Gonzalez as mandated God’sabout example andWe comfort those in of need arou at we can to keep as our families, free citizens thatitswe do, allies. but along I’ve also had questions should continue to do wh gatherings, of electric vehicle (EV) Neoliberal and Choice Feminism,” was Mary McCord, former Justice the Federal Communications ComReddit, Microsoft, Craigslist, Twitshe sat with friends in a Paris bistro this difficult time.

Through faith and by helping o fe. But we should also still continue the data.

State Republican leaders have, too. ourselves, and our communities s church services a freeon a ter and Facebook are among the accepted forsolutions, publication

by Affilia, a in 2015, one of living charging serving mission, recalled at a recent conferseveralin attacks Department official confident we will emerge out of this pandemic str cause while reasonable stay-at-home Unfortunately, when certain types of questions get asked, there is to ask questions about the data, b feminist journal for social workers. The and many more ence at Harvard’s Kennedy School Friday night insociety the French capital companies warning that searches the markets public were this same spirit, I continue to be inspired the by y shouldpaper also have an for expiration sometimes a disturbing tendency among some people to treatInthose measures are understandable, consisted in part of adate. rewritten of Government.

Facebook has 3 for jobs, restaurants and merchanthat left 130 people dead. charging stations as well as after our own supposed neighbors helping neighbors. d it is not normal.

Not in any way,Two other Her family’s passage from Mein Kampf. simply questioning the data and asking when we can start getting back This is all new to Americans, an lawsuit claim- dise could be restricted if those so- ing sued, companies have no incen- billion users today, Wheeler said. large electric vehicle temporary In Concord, a shape, highwas school senior named Tanner remainhoax vigilant and stay safe,fleets at includinging YouTube’storecommendations papers were published, do, last I The law drafted inSoresponse to normal as though they are conspiracy theorists or are people who tive to act responsibly, critics say. or form. while we shoul cial media platforms had to worry and original equipment “Rape Culture and Queer Performativity moneytoto buy 3-D printer andwe plastic to make fa mfortable with this so-called “new sacrifices are sick. to a astate decision that held They are urging the court about being suedcare overifthe recomhelped the Islamic State group’s re- otherwise don’t they get themselves or others thecourt same time shouldn’t get co checked. manufacturers (OEMs). at Urban Dog Parks.”

This paper’s subject internet company be liasay that companies can behealth suedain they provide and their cruitment is at the center of a close- mendations careanworkers out of his could own home.

Since when did questioning government at all levels become bad normal.” over.

Thedog-on-dog company’s software was rape.

But the dog rapely watched Supreme Court case ar- users want. ble for a post one of its users in somein instances.

That is what free citizens living a free society were supposed Not by one little bit. paper eventuallypower forcedsharing Boghossian, gued Tuesday about how broadly thing? and dynamic Beatriz Gonzalez, Nohemi’s an online forum. The law’s basic “Section 230 underpins a lot of do, last checked.

Pluckrose and Lindsay to prematurelyaout aspects of Ithe open internet,” said mother, said she barely uses the in- purpose was “to protect Internet law written in 1996 shields tech to solution ensures maximal under the pseudonym Sister Toldjah My first concern as just we go along in all this, of course, is my family.

Stacey Matthews has also themselves.

A Wall Street Journal writer platforms’ ability to publish and written ternet, but hopes the case results in I’m named companies from liability. The law, Neal Mohan, who was power distribution during dState and Insurrection. hadLegal figured out what they were doing.known as Section 230 of the Com- worried about them catching the virus, and I’m worried I will.

After and is a regular contributor to Re senior vice president and head of it becoming harder for extremist present user-generated content in the charging process, Some papers accepted for publication real time, and to encourage them to groups to access social media. suffering from the H1N1 virus (swine flu) during the 2009 pandemic, YouTube. munications Decency Act, is credto the best advocated possible training inleading academic journals screen and remove illegal or offen“I don’t know much social up partially ited with helping create today’s in- I’veGonzalez’s been tryingfamily, to take extra precautions, because all ofabout this brings charging experience for white male men like dogs and punishing sive content,” its authors, Sen. Ron media or these I’ ISIS organizations. backed by the memories Biden administraternet. way too many of a painful experience d prefer not to repeat. drivers.

Kempower has college students for historical slavery by A related case, set for arguments tion, argues that lower courts’ in- I don’t know nothing about politics. Wyden, D-Ore., and former Rep. But what also makes me lose sleep is how easily most everyone has asking to sit silence on the floor in grownthem rapidly inin Northern Wednesday, involves a terrorist at- dustry-friendly interpretation of But what I know is that my daugh- Christopher Cox, R-Calif., wrote in chains during class to be expectedtack to at a nightclub in Istanbul, Tur- the law has made it too difficult to ter is not going to vanish just like a Supreme Court filing.

Europe, where EVand drivers learn from the discomfort.

Other papers key, in 2017 that killed 39 people hold Big Tech companies account- that,” Gonzalez said in an interview appreciate the company’s celebrated morbid obesity as a healthyand life prompted a suit against Twit- able. Freed from the prospect of be- with The Associated Press from See SUPREME COURT, page B6 charging solutions’ choice and advocated treating privately reliability,masturbation quality, useras a form of conducted friendliness safety. sexual violenceand against women. Typically, With the new facilities academic journal editors in send submitted papers to referees for review. In Northout Carolina, Kempower recommending acceptance for publication, will start to produce NEVI many reviewers these papers glowing compliant DC gave fast-charging praise. units in 2023 and gain the Political scientist Zach Goldberg ran ability to directlystudies supply its certain grievance concepts through content.

The Associated Press customers in the United the Lexis/Nexis database, to see how often That meant plaintiffs had to States. they appeared in our press over the years.TWENTY-SIX prove that bookstore owners WORDS He “We foundare huge increases in the usagestucked into a 1996 law overhaulpleased knew they were selling obscene ofKempower “white privilege,” “unconscious bias,”ing telecommunications have albooks, said Jeff Kosseff, the auis investing in “critical race theory” “whiteness.” lowed companies like Facebook, thor of “The Twenty-Six Words North Carolina andand joining All of this is being taught to college Twitter and Google to grow into That Created the Internet,” a book the family of other highstudents, many of whom become primary about Section 230. the giants they are today. profile EV and battery and secondary school teachers who then A case coming before the U.S. A few decades later, as commermanufacturers in thepeople. state,” indoctrinate our young cial internet was taking off, politiSupreme Court this week, Gonsaid Christopher Chung, I doubt whether the coronavirus- zalez v. Google, challenges this cians revisited this legal question, caused crunch will give college CEO offinancial the Economic worried about discouraging newly law — namely whether tech comand university administrators, a forming internet companies modare liable for the material Development Partnership who arepanies crossbreed between a(EDPNC). parrot and jellyfish, erating content, and Section 230 posted on their platforms. of North Carolina the guts and backbone to restore academic was born.

A second case, Twitter v. Ta“It further shows North respectability. Far too often, they get much “Today it protects both from liamneh, also focuses on liability, leader in Carolina is a of their political support from campusthough on different grounds. ability for user posts as well as lithe cleanpeople energy sector. grievance who are members of theThe outcomes of these cases ability for any claims for moderatCompanies are choosing faculty and diversity and multiculturalcould reshape the internet as we ing content,” Kosseff said. administrative our state not offices. only for its Broadly, there are two possible know it. Section 230 won’t be easThe best hopetolies with boards of ily dismantled. But if it is, online outcomes if Section 230 is elimicommitment clean trustees, serve as yes-men nated. Platforms might get more speech could be drastically transenergy though but for many the largest for the university president. I think that a cautious, as Craigslist did followformed. manufacturing workforce in good start would be to find 1950s or 1960s ing the 2018 passage of a sex-trafthe Southeast and proximity catalogs. Look at the course offerings at ficking law that carved out an What is section 230? thewhen EV supply ato time collegechain.” graduates knew how exception to Section 230 for maAP PHOTO Established the to read, write andby compute, and make If a news site falsely calls you a terial that “promotes or facilitates them today’s Infrastructure curricula. Another helpful Bipartisan prostitution.” Craigslist quickly swindler, you can sue the publish- The Supreme Court building is seen on Capitol Hill in tool would be to giveElectric careful consideration removed its “personals” section, er for libel. But if someone posts Washington, D.C., Jan. 10, 2023.

Law, the National toVehicle eliminating all classes/majors/minors which wasn’t intended to facilithat on Facebook, you can’t sue Infrastructure containing the word “studies,” such as the company — just the person tate sex work, altogether.

(NEVI) Program provides women, Asian, black or queer studies. who posted it.

Another possibility: Facebook, else has posted — whether their instance, are obscene or violate $109 million to North I’d bet that by restoring the traditional That’s thanks to Section 230 complaint is legitimate or not. the services’ own standards, so Twitter, YouTube and other platCarolinamission to create academic to a colleges, they would Politicians on both sides of the long as they are acting in “good forms could abandon moderation of the 1996 Communications Denetwork of dent fast-charging put a serious into the COVID-19 cency Act, which states that “no aisle have argued, for different faith.” altogether and let the lowest combudget shortfall. electric vehicle charging The measure’s history dates mon denominator prevail. provider or user of an interactive reasons, that Twitter, Facebook Any change to Section 230 is computer service shall be treated and other social media platforms back to the 1950s, when bookstations along designated Walter Williamsand is a in professor of as the publisher or speaker of any have abused that protection and store owners were being held li- likely to have ripple effects on onmajorE. highways economics at George Mason University. information provided by another should lose their immunity — or able for selling books containing line speech around the globe. communities. The N.C. “The rest of the world is crackat least have to earn it by satisfy- “obscenity,” which is not protectinformation content provider.”

DOT’s NEVI plan would That legal phrase shields com- ing requirements set by the gov- ed by the First Amendment. One ing down on the internet even ensure that there are least case eventually made it to the Su- faster than the U.S.,” Goldman panies that can host trillions of ernment. four DC-Fast Chargers at Section 230 also allows social preme Court, which held that it said. “So we’re a step behind the messages from being sued into least every 50 miles on oblivion by anyone who feels platforms to moderate their ser- created a “chilling effect” to hold rest of the world in terms of cenwronged by something someone vices by removing posts that, for someone liable for someone else’s soring the internet.” major highways.

VISUAL VOICES

It’s okay to ask questions about when The we begin to get back to comfort normal and hope Supreme Court weighs liability shield for internet giants

What is Section 230, the rule that made modern internet?

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

B6 NCDOT CASH REPORT FOR THE WEEK ENDING FEB 17

Total Cash & Bond Proceeds

$2,760,585,766 Add Receipts

$61,648,626 Less Disbursements

$176,779,699 Reserved Cash

$125,000,000 Unreserved Cash Balance Total

$6,555,363,294 Disaster reimbursements:

$0 SUPREME COURT from page B5

Groups supporting the Gonzalez family say companies have not done nearly enough to control content in the areas of child sexual abuse, revenge porn and terrorism, especially in curbing computer algorithms’ recommendation of that content to users. They also say that courts have read the law too broadly.

“Congress never could have anticipated when it passed Section 230 that the internet would develop in the ways it has and that it would be used by terrorists in the ways it has,” said Mary McCord, a former Justice Department official who authored a brief on behalf of former national security officials.

Mohan said YouTube is able to keep people from seeing almost anything that violates the company’s rules, including violent, extremist content. Just 1 video in 1,000 makes it past the company’s screeners, he said.

Recommendations have emerged as the focus of the Supreme Court case. Google and its supporters argue that even a narrow ruling for the family would have far-reaching effects.

“Recommendation algorithms are what make it possible to find the needles in humanity’s largest haystack,” Kent Walker and Google’s other lawyers wrote in their main brief to the Supreme Court.

“If we undo Section 230, that would break a lot of the internet tools,” Walker said in an interview.

Some sites might take down a lot of legitimate content in a display of excessive caution.

Emerging forces and marginalized communities are most likely to suffer from such a heavy hand, said Daphne Keller of the Stanford Cyber Policy Center, who joined with the American Civil Liberties Union in support of Google.

The justices’ own views on the issue are largely unknown, except for Thomas’.

He suggested in 2020 that limiting the companies’ immunity would not devastate them.

“Paring back the sweeping immunity courts have read into Section 230 would not necessarily render defendants liable for online misconduct. It simply would give plaintiffs a chance to raise their claims in the first place. Plaintiffs still must prove the merits of their cases, and some claims will undoubtedly fail,” Thomas wrote..

More restaurants are trying monthly subscriptions The Associated Press CONSUMERS ARE willing to pay monthly subscription fees for streaming services, pet food and even toilet paper. And now some restaurants are betting they’ll do the same for their favorite meals.

Large chains like Panera and P.F. Chang’s as well as neighborhood hangouts are increasingly experimenting with the subscription model as a way to ensure steady revenue and customer visits. Some offer unlimited drinks or free delivery for a monthly fee; others will bring out your favorite appetizer each time you visit.

They’re following a trend: The average American juggled 6.7 subscriptions in 2022, up from 4.2 in 2019, according to Rocket Money, a personal finance app.

“This is just another way for customers to provide a level of support and joy and love for our offerings,” said Matt Baker, the chef at Gravitas, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Washington.

For $130 per month, Gravitas Supper Club subscribers get a three-course takeout meal for two. Baker said Gravitas shifted to takeout during the pandemic but saw demand fizzle once its dining room reopened. The Sup-

"It's becoming kind of a hot trend and we want to stay as a leading brand."

Edithann Ramey, On the Border Mexican Grill per Club — which serves about 60 diners per month — keeps that revenue flowing.

The upscale Chinese chain P.F. Chang’s also saw an opportunity to increase to-go orders with its subscription plan, which launched in September. For $6.99 per month, members get free delivery, among other perks.

Other restaurants are experimenting with memberships, which let diners pre-pay toward their visits.

El Lopo, a San Francisco bar, has 26 members in its Take-CareOf-Me Club. They pay either $89 per month for $100 in dining credits or $175 per month for $200 in credits. When members come in, El Lopo starts bringing out their favorite dishes. Each visit, they can gift a free drink to anyone in the bar.

El Lopo owner Daniel Azarkman started the club in March

2021 to encourage patrons to return as the pandemic eased. Now, he’s hearing from restaurants all over the country who are interested in starting similar programs.

“What it really achieves is getting them in more often,” he said.

Rick Camac, executive director of Industry Relations at the Institute of Culinary Education, said he expects many more restaurants to offer subscriptions in the coming years. Consumers are accustomed to them, he said, and the regular monthly income helps restaurants manage their cash flow.

But not all subscription programs have had success. In 2021, On the Border Mexican Grill introduced its Queso Club, which offered free cheese dip for a year for $1. The program stopped taking new subscribers a year later.

Edithann Ramey, On the Border’s chief marketing officer, said more than 150,000 people signed up for the Queso Club, and members visited seven times more often than the average guest. But the Dallas-based chain wasn’t making enough to cover the cost of the dip.

On the Border is now retooling the program and expects to reintroduce it later this year. It may charge more or move to a month-

ly model, Ramey said, but the subscription element will remain.

“It’s becoming kind of a hot trend and we want to stay as a leading brand,” Ramey said.

Taco Bell is also tinkering with its $10 Taco Lover’s Pass, which lets subscribers get a taco every day for a month. The pass was introduced in January 2022 and again in October; it generated buzz, but the chain is trying to think of ways to make it more valuable to consumers, said Dane Matthews, Taco Bell’s Chief Digital Officer. A subscription could promise faster service, for example, or unlock unique menu items.

St. Louis-based Panera had nearly 40 million members in its loyalty program in early 2020, but it wanted to convince them to drop in more often. So it launched a subscription program that offered unlimited coffee and tea for $8.99 per month. Customers started coming in several times a week, and about one-third of the time they bought food.

Last year, Panera expanded the subscription. Now, members can pay $11.99 per month or $119.99 per year for unlimited hot and cold drinks. Annual subscribers also get free delivery.

Chris Hosford, a communications consultant in southern California, joined Panera’s subscription plan a year ago. He passes four or five Paneras on his regular routes and often stops to grab a coffee and a bite to eat.

“It’s not a huge amount of savings for me — probably $5-10 in the average month,” Hosford said. “But I’m good with that.”

PHOTOS BY EMMIE BROOKS | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Left, costumes and instruments featured in "Power of Women in Country Music" exhibit. Right, Jim Lauderdale emcees Southern Songbird series as part of exhibit events.

Women of Country Music celebrated at NC Museum of History

By Emmie Brooks North State Journal RALEIGH — The North Carolina Museum of History now has an exhibit available for visitors called The Power of Women in Country Music. A perfect history-dense exhibition for country music lovers, the exhibit will be available until Apr. 2, 2023.

Micheal Ausbon, decorative arts curator for the museum of history and executive mansion has been curating for over five years at the museum. Ausbon is the co-curator for The Power of Women in Country Music alongside Katie Edwards.

As the pair worked on preparing the exhibit on loan from the GRAMMY museum in Los Angeles, Ausbon said they were excited to “add our North Carolina touch.”

The exhibit features international artists such as Emmylou Harris, Dolly Parton, and Taylor Swift, but also spotlights North Carolina female artists such as Rhiannon Giddens and Kasey Tyndall.

“The title of this exhibition was Stronger Together: The Power of Women in Country Music,” Ausbon said. “Kind of an overall theme that is so important is that even though these women broke all these barriers, people like Dolly did not take their fame and fortune and run with it alone, they all supported each other, even from the very beginning.”

Visitors to the exhibition have the opportunity to explore costumes, instruments, and other artifacts of a full roster of 70 female country artists. Alongside the displays are stories, quotes, and blurbs about historic Carolina country. Country

music having deep roots in North Carolina’s soil creates a special atmosphere for native visitors to experience.

“This is a very focused exhibit.

We have done other exhibits with women being the focus, but I think this one incorporates all the different cultures and histories of these women coming together to perform this part that is so embedded in our history,” Ausbon said. “Country music is not just country music, it’s gospel, it’s blues, it’s rockabilly, it’s all these things that are already in North Carolina but has been reworked in a new way.”

In conjunction with The Power of Women in Country Music exhibit, The North Carolina Museum of History launched a new event series, Southern Songbirds. Kara Leinfelder, producer of Southern

Songbirds, began planning these events to correspond with the exhibit and to showcase North Carolina female country artists.

“I lived in Nashville for six years and I saw so much music there,” Leinfelder said. “I was like there has to be a lot of music, that has to be a part of it.”

Jim Lauderdale, North Carolina native and legend, emcees the Southern Songbird events and creates the uplifting energy for the artists performing each time.

“One of the things I love most about this state is the music,” Leinfelder said. “Our museum is wonderful and we have amazing exhibits, but to add an experience that supports what the exhibits are teaching, it just makes it so much better for people to feel engaged and a part of what we’re doing.”

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

B7

TAKE NOTICE

FORSYTH NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 21 SP 458 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Beatrice Patrick a/k/a Beatrice J. Patrick and Raymond Patrick a/k/a Raymond Patrick, Sr. (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Raymond Patrick, and Beatrice Patrick) to Carrie L. Hartsell, Trustee(s), dated June 1, 2006, and recorded in Book No. RE 2668, at Page 3122 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of

RANDOLPH IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION RANDOLPH COUNTY 22sp353 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY KIMBERLY S MERRITT AND CAROLYN S BEITER DATED APRIL 28, 2006 AND RECORDED IN BOOK RE 1972 AT PAGE 1610 IN THE RANDOLPH COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA

CABARRUS NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 391 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Satania N. Brossa and James Brossa (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Satania N. Brossa and James Brossa) to Laurel A. Meyer, Trustee(s), dated September 7, 2017, and recorded in Book No. 12666, at Page 0067 in Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cabarrus County, North Carolina and the

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CABARRUS COUNTY 22sp574 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY ROBERT B HAYES DATED JANUARY 17, 2014 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 10842 AT PAGE 167 IN THE CABARRUS COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CABARRUS COUNTY 23sp6 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JASON DONALD THOMPSON AKA JASON D. THOMPSON AND RENEE M. THOMPSON DATED NOVEMBER 14, 2005 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 6368 AT PAGE 111 AND MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED APRIL 29, 2014 IN BOOK 10941, PAGE 206 IN THE CABARRUS COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and

22 SP 569 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CABARRUS COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by William Barnes a/k/a William L. Barnes and Cheryl Barnes a/k/a Cheryl L. Barnes to Howard S. Irvin, PA, Trustee(s), which was dated February 6, 2009 and recorded on February 6, 2009 in Book 08572 at Page 0043, Cabarrus County Registry, North Carolina.

Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on March 1, 2023 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash

CUMBERLAND Executor’s Notice IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE

Executor’s Notice IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 23-E-149

Amended Notice to Creditors IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE # 21 – E – 1684

Amended Notice to Creditors IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE # 22 – E – 1403

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 991 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Monique Antoinette Land aka Monique Land (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Monique Land, Heirs of Monique Land a/k/a Monique Antoinette Land: Jacquil M. Land, Bryan D. Bryant, Byran D. Bryant) to Trustee Services of Carolina, Trustee(s), dated May 7, 2008, and recorded in Book No. 07892, at Page 0515 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary

the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:00 PM on March 8, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Winston Salem in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: All that certain property situated in the County of Forsyth and State of North Carolina, being more fully described in a deed dated 07/13/1999 and recorded 07/21/1999, among the land records of the County and State set forth above, in Deed Volume 2077 and Page 4547. Tax Map or Parcel ID No.: 3425A-043. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 2542 Wood Valley Road, Winston Salem, 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. §4521.23.

Should the property be purchased by

a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of

the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 3897 - 13389

NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Randolph County courthouse at 10:00AM on March 8, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Randolph County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Kimberly S Merritt and Carolyn S Beiter, dated April 28, 2006 to secure the original principal amount of $111,920.00, and recorded in Book RE 1972 at Page 1610 of the Randolph County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to

be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 2 1 9 2 Regency Dr, Randleman, NC 27317 Tax Parcel ID: 7763726555 Present Record Owners: Kimberly S. Merritt and Carolyn S. Beiter The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Kimberly S. Merritt and Carolyn S. Beiter.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or

liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser.

Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is February 16, 2023. _____________________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com 17-096537

holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Concord, Cabarrus County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on March 1, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Concord in the County of Cabarrus, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING LOT NUMBER 27 IN THE SUBDIVISION KNOWN AS QUAIL HOLLOW PARK, SECTION 3, AS SURVEYED AND PLATTED, A COPY OF WHICH IF FILED IN MAP BOOK 14, PAGE 63, CABARRUS COUNTY REGISTRY. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 2168 Dartwood Drive Northwest, Concord, North Carolina.

the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

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

Should the property be purchased by

a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

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

secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cabarrus County courthouse at 10:00AM on March 8, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Robert B Hayes, dated January 17, 2014 to secure the original principal amount of $250,600.00, and recorded in Book 10842 at Page 167 of the Cabarrus County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 9 5 3 9 Laguna Avenue NW, Concord, NC 28027 Tax Parcel ID: 46812747070000

Present Record Owners: B. Robert Hayes The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Robert B. Hayes.

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

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

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser.

Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is February 16, 2023. _____________________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com

because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cabarrus County courthouse at 11:00AM on March 1, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Jason Donald Thompson aka Jason D. Thompson and Renee M. Thompson, dated November 14, 2005 to secure the original principal amount of $130,000.00, and recorded in Book 6368 at Page 111 of the Cabarrus County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 694 Forest

St NW, Concord, NC 28025 Tax Parcel ID: 56212378990000 Present Record Owners: J a s o n Donald Thompson The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Jason Donald Thompson.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject

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

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession

of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser.

Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is February 9, 2023. _____________________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com

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

1996; Subject to the Right of Way for Lambert Road.

on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale.

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 William L. Barnes and wife, Cheryl L. Barnes.

effective date of the termination.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §4521.23.

Lying and Being in Number Eight (8) Township of Cabarrus County, North Carolina on the Northeast side of Lambert Road, adjoining the property of Johnsie H. Byrd and others, and being more fully described as follows: OLD DESCRIPTION BEGINNING at a nail in the centerline of Lambert Road (said Beginning point being North 34 East 413.0 feet from a number 6 rebar) and runs thence North 34 East 25.34 feet to a new iron pipe in the Northeastern edge of the right of way of Lambert Road, a corner of Johnsie H. Byrd, and runs with the line of Byrd, North 34 East 281.35 feet to a new iron pipe (said iron pipe being South 34 West 65.13 feet from an existing number 5 rebar); thence South 56 East 154.89 feet to a new iron pipe; thence South 34 West (passing a new iron stake in the Northeastern edge of Lambert Road at 285.77 feet) 311.64 feet to a new iron pipe near the centerline of Lambert Road; thence with Lambert Road North 54-10-01 West 154.97 feet to the point of BEGINNING, containing 1.10 acre, more or less, as surveyed and platted by Rodrick Allen Sutton, R.L.S., December 13,

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION ESTATE FILE 23 E 211

For back reference, see Book 8361, Page 217, Cabarrus Registry.

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

Said property is commonly known as 3015 Lambert Road, Mount Pleasant, NC 28124.

A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in,

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the

The undersigned, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Kenneth Eugene Digby, 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 7602 Owl Roost Ct., Wilmington, NC 28411, on or before May 22, 2023, 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.

immediate payment to the undersigned.

The undersigned, having qualified as the Executor of the Estate of Charles Clennie Bartlett, 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 3007 Bankhead Drive, Fayetteville, NC, 28306, on or before May 22, 2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the estate will please make

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Tracie K McMillan, 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 22, 2023, 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 22nd day of February, 2023.

Walter Grover Keifer, Executor of the Estate of Tracie K. McMillan NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY, CRAVEN & CORLEY, L.L.P. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD

STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Robert William Rex, 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 22, 2023, 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 22nd day of February, 2023.

Dominic Rex, Executor of the Estate of Robert William Rex NICOLE A. CORLEY MURRAY, CRAVEN & CORLEY, L.L.P. N.C. BAR NO. 56459 2517 RAEFORD ROAD

location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on March 6, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: That certain parcel of land, in Cumberland County, State of North Carolina, and which is described as follows:

a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of

the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

State of North Carolina Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS

State of North Carolina Cumberland County NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Being all of Lot 95, Lake Point Place, Section 2, according to a plat of same duly recorded in Book of Plats 48, Page 78, Cumberland County Registry.

Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 6447 Green Meadows Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Address: 6447 Green Meadow Drive; Fayetteville, NC 28304 Tax Map or Parcel ID No.: 9496-61-2326 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

This the 22nd day of February 2023.

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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 9741 - 39098

22-114663

19-103497

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

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 19-18176-FC02

c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305

Lisa Digby Fox Executor of the Estate of Kenneth Eugene Digby, Deceased

This the 22nd day of February 2023.

c/o Gilliam Law Firm, PLLC PO Box 53555 Fayetteville, NC 28305

Cassandra Faye Bartlett Executor of the Estate of Charles Clennie Bartlett, Deceased

FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR 2/22, 3/1, 8, 15

FAYETTEVILLE, NC 28305 – 3007 (910) 483 – 4990 COUNSEL FOR EXECUTOR 2/22, 3/1, 8, 15

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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 10402 - 43541

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

B8 TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND SUMMONS (CITACION JUDICIAL) Notice To Defendant: (Aviso Al Demandado): Kristen Fuentes aka Kristen N. Fuentes aka Kristen Funtes, An Individual; Oscar Fuentes akaOscar J. Fuentes III, An Individual; The State Of California, Acting By And Through The California Department Of Motor Vehicles, A Government Entity; And Does 1 Through 20, Inclusive You Are Being Sued By Plaintiff: (Lo Esta Demandando El Demandante): The Golden 1 Credit Union, A California Corporation NOTICE! You have been sued. The court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. Read the information below.

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 283 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by James P. Hall (Deceased) and Frances S. Hall (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): James P. Hall and Frances S. Hall, Heirs of Frances S. Hall: Donald Hall a/k/a James D. Hall) to PRLAP, Inc., Trustee(s), dated December 12, 2007, and recorded in Book No. 7788, at Page 0723 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on February 27, 2023 and will

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 22SP219 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY EDNA S. CUMMINGS AND KAREL A. CUMMINGS, SR. DATED DECEMBER 23, 2011 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 8798 AT PAGE 242 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the

22 SP 1172 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 Oscar L. Nieves Ortiz to Kelly B. Baumgardner and Jerry B. Flowers, Trustee(s), which was dated October 20, 2017 and recorded on October 23, 2017 in Book 10190 at Page 0342, 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

22 SP 1201 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 Brandon B. Banks to The Law Firm of Hutchens, Senter, Britton, P.A., Trustee(s), which was dated September 6, 2019 and recorded on September 10, 2019 in Book 10583 at Page 0195, 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

22 SP 572 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 Arthur Davis, III to PRLAP, Inc., Trustee(s), which was dated April 6, 2005 and recorded on May 2, 2005 in Book 6865 at Page 890, 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 March 1, 2023 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 22SP1180 NOTICE OF SALE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF CUMBERLAND IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JAMES M. THOMAS AND VICTORIA M. THOMAS DATED JUNE 11, 2002 RECORDED IN BOOK 5772 AT PAGE 547 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY 22 SP 996 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by David Perez and Glorivette Marrero Valentin, in the original amount of $79,237.00, payable to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., as nominee for Carrington Mortgage Services, LLC, dated May 10, 2017 and recorded on May 15, 2017 in Book 10091, Page 395, 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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY 22 SP 997 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Margaret Hassell, in the original amount of $229,500.00, payable to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. acting solely as nominee for 1st Maryland Mortgage DBA Great Oak Lending Partners, dated October 28, 2011 and recorded on November 14, 2011 in Book 8762, Page 890, Cumberland County Registry.

Default having been made under 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

You have 30 CALENDAR DAYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. A letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form if you want the court to hear your case. There may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/se/fhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court.

There are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelpcalifomia.org), the California Courts Online Self-Help Center (www.courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association.

NOTE: The court has a statutory lien for waived fees and

costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. The court's lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. 1A VISO! Lohan demandado. Si no responde dentro de 30 dfas, la corte puede decidir en su contra sin escuchar su version. Lea la informac/6n a continuaci6n.

Tiene 30 DIAS DE CALENDARIO despues de que le entreguen esta citaci6n y papeles legates para presentar una respuesta por escrito en esta corte y hacer que se entregue una copia al demandante. Una carta o una 1/ amada telef6nica no lo protegen. Su respuesta por escrito tiene que estar en formato legal correcto si desea que procesen su caso en la corte. Es posible que haya un formulario que usted pueda usar para su respuesta. Puede encontrar estos tormularios de la corte y mas informaci6n en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de California (www. sucorte.ca.gov), en la biblioteca de !eyes de su condado o en la corte que le quede mas cerca. Si no puede pagar la cuota de presentaci6n, pida al secretario de la corte que le de un formulario de exenci6n de pago de cuotas. Si no presenta su respuesta a tiempo, puede perder el caso por incumplimiento y la corte le podra quitar su sue/do, dinero y bienes sin mas advertencia.

Hay otros requisitos legales. Es recomendabfe que /lame a un abogado inmediatamente. Si no conoce a un abogado, puede llamar a un servicio d rem/s/6n a af)ogados. Si no puede pagar a un abogado, es posible que cumpla con los requisitos para obtener servicios legates gratuitos de un programa de servicios legales sin fines de /ucro. Puede encontrar estos grupos sin fines de /ucro en el sitio web de California Legal Services, (www.lawhelpcalifornia.org}, en el Centro de Ayuda de las Cortes de Callfornia, (www. sucorte.ca.gov) o ponlendose en contacto con ta corte o el co/eglo de abogados locales. AV/SO: Por fey, la corte tiene derecho a reclamar las cuotas y los costos exentos por imponer un gravamen sobre cualquier recuperaci6n de $10,000 6 mas de valor recibida mediante un acuerdo o una concesi6n de arbltraje en un caso de derecho civil.

Tiene que a ar el ravamen de ta corte antes de ue la corte ueda desechar el caso.

The name, address, and telephone number of plaintitt's attorney, or plaintitt without an attorney, is: (El nombre, la direccion y el numero de telefono de/ abogado de/ demandante, ode/ demandante que no tiene abogado, es): KAREL ROCHA 212413 Prenovost, Normandin, Dawe & Rocha 2122 N Broadway, Suite 200 Santa Ana, CA 92706 (714) 547-2444

The name and address of the court is: (El nombre y direccion de la corte es):

SUPERIOR COURT OF CALIFORNIA Sacramento 04/06/2022 amocanu

SACRAMENTO COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT 720 NINTH STREET, ROOM 102 SACRAMENTO, CA 95814

DATE (FECHA): APR 6 2022 CLERK, BY (SECRETARIO): A. MOCANU (For Proof of Service of this summons, use Proof of Service of Summons Form POS-010.

(Para prueba de entrega de esta citacion use el formufario Proof of Service of Summons, (POS-010)).

Case Number: 34-2022-00317695

of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

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

APN 0406-97-6685

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

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior

encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk

agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 11:00AM on March 6, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Edna S. Cummings and Karel A. Cummings, Sr., dated December 23, 2011 to secure the original principal amount of $93,596.00, and recorded in Book 8798 at Page 242 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 318 Nugget Court, Fayetteville, NC 28311 Tax Parcel ID: 0 520 - 61-

4124 Present Record Owners: The Heirs of Edna S. Cummings and Karel A. Cummings, Sr. The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Heirs of Edna S. Cummings and Karel A. Cummings, Sr. The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments

including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure.

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

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also,

if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is February 14, 2023. _____________________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com

courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on March 1, 2023 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:

($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.

Being all of Lot No. 247 in a subdivision known as Southgate, Section IV, according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Book of Plat 41, at Page 72, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. 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 OSCAR L. NIEVES ORTIZ, AN UNMARRIED MAN.

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

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

but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The land referred to is situated in the State of NC, County of Cumberland, City of Fayetteville and described as follows: A certain tract or parcel of land in Cumberland County, State of North Carolina, bounded as follows, VIZ: Being all of Lot Twenty-Three of Lafayette Village, Section 23 as surveyed by Fol C. Rose, August, 1952 and recorded in Book of Plats 14, Page 49 of the Cumberland County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 5307 Walnut Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

Being that parcel of land conveyed to James P. Hall and wife, Frances S. Hall from James Thomas Kornegay and wife, Cornelia Dale Kornegay by that deed dated 04/09/1957 and recorded 06/04/1957 in Deed Book 730, at Page 287 of the Cumberland County, NC, Public Registry.

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

Said property is commonly known as 7402 Southgate Road, Fayetteville, NC 28314.

A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars

courthouse where the property is located, or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on March 1, 2023 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: Being all of Lot 154 in a subdivision known as The Village on Asphens Creek, Section Two according to a plat recorded Plat Book 117, Page 22, Cumberland County Registry.

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

Said property is commonly known as 5230 Woodpecker Dr, Hope Mills, NC 28348.

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

property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: THAT CERTAIN TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND LYING AND BEING IN CUMBERLAND COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, AND MORE PARTICULARLY DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS: BEGINNING AT A STAKE IN THE NORTHERN MARGIN OF BUTLER STREET AT A POINT 150 FEET WEST FROM THE INTERSECTION OF A 30 FOOT UNNAMED STREET, AS SHOWN ON A PLAT OF THE BUTLER SUBDIVISION, RECORDED IN BOOK OF PLATS 12, PAGE 42 CUMBERLAND COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA REGISTRY AND RUNNING THENCE WITH THE NORTHERN MARGIN OF BUTLER STREET 100 FEET TO A STAKE; THENCE AT RIGHT ANGLES WITH SAID BUTLER STREET NORTHWARDLY 150 FEET TO A STAKE; THENCE EASTWARDLY PARALLEL TO BUTLER STREET 100 FEET TO A STAKE; THENCE SOUTHWARDLY 150 FEET TO THE PLACE AND POINT OF BEGINNING. Save and except any releases, deeds of release or prior

of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 1:30 PM on March 8, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by James M. Thomas; Victoria M. Thomas, dated June 11, 2002 to secure the original principal amount of $405,000.00, and recorded in Book 5772 at Page 547 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: Lakeshore Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28305 Tax Parcel ID:

1

8

0

2

0 4 2 7- 6 3 -

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 2:00 P.M. on March 6, 2023, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: BEING ALL OF LOT 251, IN A SUBDIVISION KNOWN AS LEGION HILLS, SECTION FOUR, PART SIX, ACCORDING TO A PLAT OF SAME DULY RECORDED IN BOOK OF PLATS 100, PAGE 61, CUMBERLAND COUNTY REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA. Parcel: 0425-13-4453 Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 3837 Meteor Drive, Hope Mills, NC 28348.

Tax ID: 0425-13-4453 Third party purchasers must pay the recording costs of the trustee’s deed, any land transfer taxes, the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105-228.30, in

in Cumberland County, North Carolina, at 2:00 PM on March 7, 2023, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: All that certain lot or parcel of land situate in the City of FAYETTEVILLE, County of Cumberland, State of North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 769 in a subdivision known as Devonwood, Section 2, Part 1, according to a plat of the same duly recorded in Book of Plats 39, Page 25, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

The improvements thereon being known as : 7047 Darnell Street, Fayetteville, NC 28314 BEING the same property which, by Deed dated October 10, 1991, and recorded in the Office of Register of Deeds of the City of FAYETTEVILLE, County of Cumberland, North Carolina, in Book 3721, Page 687, was granted and conveyed by James E. Hogue & Debra A Hogue unto Margaret Hassell.

With the appurtenances thereto.

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.

of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. 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 Brandon B. Banks.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued

conveyances of record.

Said property is commonly known as 113 Jasper St and 115 Jasper St, Fayetteville, NC 28301.

A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds

8749 Present Record Owners: Thomas; Victoria M. Thomas

James

M.

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are James M. Thomas and Victoria M. Thomas.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition

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,

pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

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

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

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 Fullyloaded Expo.

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

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

expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 6999 - 26481

00-22241

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 19-19728-FC02

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

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 22-17736-FC01

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

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 20-03552-FC01

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

The date of this Notice is 6th day of February, 2023.

Grady I. Ingle, Attorney for Substitute Trustee Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717 Ingle Case Number: 10079-12938

the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof, and the Clerk of Courts fee, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §7A-308, in the amount of Forty-five Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or fractional part thereof with a maximum amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit of five percent (5%) of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale and must be tendered in the form of certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, land transfer taxes, if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned,

the current owners of the property are David Perez and Glorivette Marrero Valentin.

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

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination (North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of termination. If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the

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

Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 7047 Darnell Street, Fayetteville, NC 28314.

Tax ID: 9498-91-9785 Third party purchasers must pay the recording costs of the trustee’s deed, any land transfer taxes, the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105-228.30, in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof, and the Clerk of Courts fee, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §7A-308, in the amount of Forty-five Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or fractional part thereof with a maximum amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit of five percent (5%) of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale and must be tendered in the form of certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the

property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, land transfer taxes, if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owners of the property are Heirs/Devisees of Margaret Hassell.

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

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

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

Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee John P. Fetner, Bar #41811 McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC Attorney for Anchor Trustee Services, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) jfetner@mtglaw.com

Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee John P. Fetner, Bar #41811 McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC Attorney for Anchor Trustee Services, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) jfetner@mtglaw.com

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

B9

TAKE NOTICE

CUMBERLAND 20 SP 39 AMENDED 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 Sarah F. Wall to Investors Title Insurance Company, Trustee(s), which was dated May 1, 2015 and recorded on May 4, 2015 in Book 09641 at Page 0311, 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

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, CUMBERLAND COUNTY 21 SP 652 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Shaneka Fisher, in the original amount of $183,767.00, payable to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Mortgage Research Center, LLC dba Veterans United Home Loans, dated December 20, 2016 and recorded on December 20, 2016 in Book 10005, Page 0252, 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

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION CUMBERLAND COUNTY 22sp705 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY DAVID ANDREW LITTLE AND MILINDA C. LITTLE DATED DECEMBER 27, 2013 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 9126 AT PAGE 578 IN THE CUMBERLAND COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE Publication Dates: February 22, 2023 and March 1, 2023 22 SP 736 Under and by virtue of power of sale granted to Petitioner pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47C-3-116 under a Claim of Lien filed on January 15, 2020 in Cumberland County File Number 20 M 63 (the “Lien”) against Erik P. Mineo (“Respondent”), by Harbour Pointe Condominium Owners Association, Inc. (“Harbour Pointe”). As the beneficiary of the Claim of Lien and pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47C-3-116, Harbour Pointe seeks to foreclose the Lien, which evidences a valid debt. Respondent defaulted on the payment of the debt represented by the Claim of Lien and the undersigned, J. Haydon Ellis, attorney for Substitute Trustee Services, Inc., Trustee. The undersigned Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on March 6, 2023 and will sell to the highest

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 1253 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Marcus Lamont Williams and Darlene Dixon (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Marcus Lamont Williams) to M. Patricia Oliver, Trustee(s), dated August 31, 2007, and recorded in Book No. 7690, at Page 0472 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on May 18, 2022, in Book No. 11475, at Page 0407, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on March 6, 2023 and will

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 1191 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Michael S. Guoan (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Michael S. Guoan) to A. Grant Whitney, Trustee(s), dated March 26, 2013, and recorded in Book No. 09145, at Page 0884 in Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Cumberland County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Fayetteville, Cumberland County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 12:00 PM on February 27, 2023 and will

FORSYTH NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 1062 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Brandon Charles Williams and Patricia Ann Williams (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Patricia Ann Williams) to Laurel A. Meyer, Trustee(s), dated April 28, 2017, and recorded in Book No. RE 3344, at Page 1815 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 1064 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Brandon Johnson and Nina Johnson (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Brandon Johnson and Nina Johnson) to Michael Lyon, Trustee(s), dated December 13, 2013, and recorded in Book No. RE 3159, at Page 1751 in Forsyth County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on February 18, 2022, Document No. 2022008228 00028, in Book No. RE 3676, at Page 3207A Loan Modification recorded on February 13, 2020, Document No. 2020006128 00030, in Book No. RE 3507, at Page 3530, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Forsyth County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed

IREDELL IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION IREDELL COUNTY 20SP196 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY KERRY APRIL MASON DATED MARCH 24, 2000 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1191 AT PAGE 1536 IN THE IREDELL COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE

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 March 1, 2023 at 01:30 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Cumberland County, North Carolina, to wit: BEING all of Lot 75 in a Subdivision known as REVISION OF WOODLAND VILLAGE, SECTION TWO, PART B, according to a plat of same recorded in Plat Book 114, Page 84, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

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

Said property is commonly known as 2117 Broadman Avenue, Fayetteville, NC 28304.

A certified check only (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Sarah F. Wall.

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

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

but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587

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,

File No.: 19-21317-FC01

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

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination (North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of termination. If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan

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

Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 4537 Headwind Drive, Fayetteville, NC 28306. Tax ID: 0443-59-3680 Third party purchasers must pay the recording costs of the trustee’s deed, any land transfer taxes, the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105-228.30, in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof, and the Clerk

of Courts fee, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §7A-308, in the amount of Forty-five Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or fractional part thereof with a maximum amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit of five percent (5%) of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale and must be tendered in the form of certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale. This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, land transfer taxes, if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owners of the property is Shaneka Fisher.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: An order for possession of the

in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Cumberland County courthouse at 11:00AM on February 28, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Cumberland County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed David Andrew Little and Milinda C. Little, dated December 27, 2013 to secure the original principal amount of $267,450.00, and recorded in Book 9126 at Page 578 of the Cumberland County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 3516 Farm Circle Rd, Fayetteville, NC 28306

Tax Parcel ID: 9 4 9 4 -10 8836 Present Record Owners: D a v i d Andrew Little and Milinda C. Little The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are David Andrew Little and Milinda C. Little.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens

and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure.

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

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of

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

The date of this Notice is February 14, 2023. _____________________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com

bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Unit 11, Building 1, HARBOUR POINTE CONDOMINIUMS, Phase Two, as recorded in Condominium Book 6, Page 142, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina with ownership interest, privileges, appurtenances, conditions and restrictions contained and described in the Declaration of Harbour Pointe Condominiums recorded in Book 6340, Page 309, Cumberland County Registry.

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 CORA, Inc. make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include,

but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and payoff of the lien without the knowledge of the Trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the Trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit.

The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 Rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

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

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

THISISACOMMUNICATIONFROMADEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection.

IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANKRUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY.

sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 10, and part of Lot 9, of the McNeill Subdivision, Revised, plat of which is duly recorded in Book of Plats 21, page 5, Cumberland County Registry, and being more particularly described as follows:

1962, and recorded in Book 907, page 523, Cumberland County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 306 Sinclair Drive, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

BEGINNING at a stake in the northern margin of Sinclair Street, the southwest corner of Lot 11 and running thence with the dividing line between Lots 10 and 11, and 10 and 12, North 11 degrees 17 minutes West 140 feet to a stake; thence South 77 degrees 46 minutes West 90 feet to a stake; thence South 11 degrees 17 minutes East 140 feet to a stake in the northern margin of Sinclair Street; thence with the northern margin of the 50 foot right of way of Sinclair Street, North 77 degrees 46 minutes East 90 feet to the place and point of BEGINNING, and being part of the property described in deed from W. T. Saunders and wife, Laura M. Saunders to Lacy McNeill and wife, Grace S. McNeill, dated March 31, 1951, and recorded in Book 568, page 216, Cumberland County Registry. See also deed from Lacy McNeill and wife, Grace S. McNeill to Billy D. Baker and wife, Barbara Y. Baker dated January 15,

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

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly

disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser

and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

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

sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Fayetteville in the County of Cumberland, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot Number 18 in a subdivision known as MARY N. COLE PROPERTY, SECTION II and the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 20, at page 15, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 218 Randolph Avenue, Fayetteville, North Carolina.

($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. 7A-308(a)(1).

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

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in

the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice

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

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

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

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the

purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed

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

NC 27127

of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

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

Commonly known as: 110 Braeburn Ct, Winston Salem,

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

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior

encumbrances of record and any recorded releases. Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk

Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Iredell County courthouse at 11:00AM on March 9, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Iredell County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Kerry April Mason, dated March 24, 2000 to secure the original principal amount of $87,452.00, and recorded in Book 1191 at Page 1536 of the Iredell County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 190 Grassy

Meadow Ln, Statesville, NC 28625 Tax Parcel ID: 4728909313.000 Present Record Owners: Kerry A. Mason The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Kerry A. Mason.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens

and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure.

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

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of

the 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 2:00 P.M. on March 6, 2023, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit: BEING all of Lot 79, in a subdivision known as Grays Creek Villas, Section II, Phase I, and the same being duly recorded in Book of Plats 135, Page 22, Cumberland County Registry, North Carolina.

Property Address: 3308 Harbour Pointe Place, Unit 11, Fayetteville, NC 28314 Parcel Identification No.: 0407-48-0311-311 Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in NCGS §45-21.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by NCGS §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to

Parcel Identification No. 0439-84-1803 Property Address: 218 Randolph Avenue, Fayetteville, NC 28311 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

that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:00 PM on March 8, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Winston Salem in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being known and designated as Lot Number 137 as shown on the map of Carriage Cove, Section II, as recorded in Plat Book 35, Pages 165-168 in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County, North Carolina, reference to which is hereby made for a particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located 1664 Quillmark Road, Winston Salem, North Carolina.

Parcel ID Number: 6823-25-4368.00 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.

that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Winston Salem, Forsyth County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:00 PM on March 8, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Winston Salem in the County of Forsyth, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Tax Id Number(s): 6823-18-4806.00 Land Situated in the Township of Winston in the County of Forsyth in the State of NC Being known and designated as Lot 145 as shown on the plat of Camden Forest Phase 1-B as recorded in Plat Book 41, Page 21 in the office of the Register of Deeds of Forsyth County North Carolina reference to which is hereby made for a more particular description. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 110 Braeburn Court, Winston Salem, 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.

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.

Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee John P. Fetner, Bar #41811 McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC Attorney for Anchor Trustee Services, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) jfetner@mtglaw.com

22-113800

BY: J. Haydon Ellis Attorney for Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. Hutchens Law Firm

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 12516 - 54469

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 12072 - 52130

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 11902 - 51287

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 11860 - 51014

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

The date of this Notice is January 26, 2023. _____________________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com 20-110289

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

B10 TAKE NOTICE

IREDELL IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION IREDELL COUNTY 17SP104 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY BEATRICE MAYFIELD AKA BEATRICE F. MAYFIELD AND CLIFFORD MAYFIELD AKA CLIFFORD MAYFIELD, JR. DATED JANUARY 10, 2008 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1910 AT PAGE 1939 AND MODIFIED BY AGREEMENT RECORDED JUNE 13, 2013 IN BOOK 2248 PAGE 765 AND FURTHER MODIFIED BY

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION IREDELL COUNTY 18sp118 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY JANET MEADOWS DATED JANUARY 4, 2008 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1909 AT PAGE 1852 IN THE IREDELL COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the

JOHNSTON IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION JOHNSTON COUNTY 18SP90 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY REBECCA HORTON DATED OCTOBER 19, 2016 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 4850 AT PAGE 719 AND CORRECTED BY AFFIDAVIT RECORDED NOVEMBER 10, 2020 IN BOOK 5751, PAGE 912 IN THE JOHNSTON COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA

22 SP 231 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, JOHNSTON COUNTY

AGREEMENT RECORDED JANUARY 21, 2014 IN BOOK 2283 PAGE 2255 IN THE IREDELL COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Iredell County courthouse at 11:00AM on March 7, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Iredell County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Beatrice Mayfield aka Beatrice F. Mayfield and Clifford Mayfield aka Clifford Mayfield, Jr., dated January 10, 2008 to secure the original principal amount of $171,311.00, and recorded in Book 1910 at Page 1939 of the Iredell County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing

in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 402 Holland Dr, Statesville, NC 28677 Tax Parcel ID: 4744181911.000 Present Record Owners: Beatrice Feimster Mayfield The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Beatrice Feimster Mayfield.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety

conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure.

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

the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is January 13, 2023. _____________________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com

agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Iredell County courthouse at 11:00AM on March 8, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Iredell County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Janet Meadows, dated January 4, 2008 to secure the original principal amount of $50,000.00, and recorded in Book 1909 at Page 1852 of the Iredell County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

325 Moose Address of property: Club Rd, Statesville, NC 28677 Tax Parcel ID: 4742086365.000

J a n e t Present Record Owners: Meadows The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Janet Meadows.

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

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or

seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental

agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is January 30, 2023. _____________________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com

NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Johnston County courthouse at 11:00AM on February 28, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Johnston County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Rebecca Horton, dated October 19, 2016 to secure the original principal amount of $113,898.00, and recorded in Book 4850 at Page 719 of the Johnston County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

118 W Silver Address of property: Belle Dr, Zebulon, NC 27597 11M01003J Tax Parcel ID: Rebecca Present Record Owners: Horton The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Rebecca Horton.

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

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

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser.

Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after

October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is January 4, 2023. _____________________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Andrew Lawrence Vining, NCSB# 48677 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com Posted: By:

or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on March 7, 2023 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Johnston County, North Carolina, to wit:

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.

pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Erin DuBois Smith and Simangaliso B Smith to Angela M Burton, Trustee(s), which was dated July 17, 2017 and recorded on July 19, 2017 in Book 4993 at Page 424, Johnston County Registry, North Carolina.

Being all of Lot 42, Flowers Crest at Flowers Plantation, Phase 3, as shown on Map recorded in Book of Maps 81, Page 386-387, Johnston County Registry.

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,

Said property is commonly known as 194 Flowers Crest Way, Clayton, NC 27527.

22 SP 568 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE

or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on March 7, 2023 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Johnston County, North Carolina, to wit:

NORTH CAROLINA, JOHNSTON COUNTY

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

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

Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Michael David Leach to John B Third, Trustee(s), which was dated September 25, 2017 and recorded on September 25, 2017 in Book 5031 at Page 701, Johnston County Registry, North Carolina.

BEING all of Lot 56, Meadow Creek Subdivision, Section II, as shown on plat recorded in Plat Book 38, Page 489, Johnston County Registry.

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,

Said property is commonly known as 228 Deep Creek Dr, Clayton, NC 27520.

AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 20SP000133-500

North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: The Land referred to herein below is situated in the County of JOHNSTON, State of NC, and is described as follows: Being all of Lot 122, Phase Two, Bristol at Cobblestone Subdivision, as shown on map recorded in Plat Book 84, Pages 378 through 380, Johnston County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 58 Onyx Court, Clayton, North Carolina.

Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Ray Lawrence (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Ray Lawrence) to H. Terry Hutchens, Esq., Trustee(s), dated April 25, 2019, and recorded in Book No. 5338, at Page 100 in Johnston County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Johnston County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Smithfield, Johnston County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on March 7, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Clayton in the County of Johnston,

ONSLOW NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 513 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Colten L. King (Deceased) and Haley Barkley (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Colten L. King and Haley Barkley) to James R. Seely, Trustee(s), dated July 19, 2019, and recorded in Book No. 4986, at Page 940 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 514 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Michael D. Schott (Deceased) and Karen L. Schott (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Karen L. Schott and Michael D. Schott, Heirs of Karen L. Schott: Diane Michelle LaMerrill a/k/a Diane M. LaMerrill) to David W. Allred, Trustee(s), dated April 29, 1999, and recorded in Book No. 1543, at Page 854 and re-recorded in Book No. 1552, at Page 307 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina. The Deed of Trust was modified by the following: A Loan Modification recorded on December 12, 2006, in Book No. 2785, at Page 962, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 568 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Kelvin F. Hillary (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Honorable Home Solutions, LLC and Mother’s Love Properties, LLC) to CB Services Corporation, Trustee(s), dated May 7, 2007, and recorded in Book No. 2869, at Page 514 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure

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

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

Being the same property as conveyed from Royal Oaks Building Group, LLC to Ray Lawrence, unmarried, as set forth in Deed Book 5092 Page 55 dated 12/21/2017, recorded 01/25/2018, JOHNSTON County, NORTH CAROLINA. Tax ID: 05H03044K Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §4521.23.

Should the property be purchased by

Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on March 9, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Richlands in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Lying and being in Onslow County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 1, Joshua Ridge, According to the plat thereof, recorded in Map Book 58, Page 20, in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Onslow County North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 101 Joshua Aaron Trail, Richlands, North Carolina.

Subject to restrictive covenants recorded in Book 3266, Page 760, Onslow County Registry.

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §4521.23.

that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on March 9, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 29, Block D, Brynn Marr Section VII-B, Part I as recorded in Map Book 22 Page 15, Slide B-283, Onslow County Registry, which map is by reference incorporated herein. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 409 Mark Lane, Jacksonville, 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. §4521.23.

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.

sales, at 10:00 AM on March 9, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Richlands in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot 23, Duffy Field Place, Section II, according to the plat thereof recorded in Map Book 41, Page 72 & 72A in the Office of the Register of Deeds in Onslow County, North Carolina. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 110 Indian Cave, Richlands, North Carolina.

CAVALIER 2004 BR04NC141363AB Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §4521.23.

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).

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, 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 Erin Dubois Smith and Simangalisa B. Smith.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued

of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale.

This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Michael David Leach.

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

pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

13-041410

16-080769

17-096349

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 22-06719-FC01

to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in their sole discretion, if they believe the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587

An Order for possession of the property may be issued

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

a third party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars

($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed

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

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of

the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property

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

§7A-308(a)(1).

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of

the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving

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

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS, WHERE IS.” Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust/ security agreement, or both, being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property being offered for sale, and any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition are expressly disclaimed. Also, this property is being sold subject to all taxes, special assessments, and prior liens or prior encumbrances of record and any recorded releases.

Said property is also being sold subject to applicable Federal and State laws.

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of

the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed

File No.: 22-17506-FC01

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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 2813 - 6734

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 9409 - 37334

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 9353 - 37101

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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 10511 - 44137

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

B11

TAKE NOTICE

ONSLOW AMENDED NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 19 SP 690 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Kerrianne S. Palmer and Daniel M. Becker (Deceased) (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Kerrianne S. Palmer and Daniel M. Becker) to James R. Seely, Trustee(s), dated August 29, 2018, and recorded in Book No. 4834, at Page 173 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 762 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Allison Marie Appleberry and Drew Appleberry (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Allison Marie Appleberry and Drew Appleberry) to Cristina Zorrilla, Trustee(s), dated March 17, 2020, and recorded in Book No. 5126, at Page 813 in Onslow County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Onslow County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for

indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Jacksonville, Onslow County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on March 2, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Richlands in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 3, containing 4.24 acres, as shown on that plat recorded in Map Book 43, Page 131, Slide K-1558, Onslow County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 580 Haw Branch Road, Richlands, North Carolina. SUBJECT to that certain 1.58 acre tract denoted as a conservation easement conveyed to the State of North Carolina by document entitled “Permanent Conservation Easement” and recorded in Book 2772, Page 195 of the Onslow County Registry and which 1.58 acre tract is shown as Tract D in that Map Book 52, Page 51 & 51A of the Onslow County Registry.

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

foreclosure sales, at 10:00 AM on March 9, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Jacksonville in the County of Onslow, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Lot 199, as shown on map entitled “LAURADALE SECTION 5, JACKSONVILLE TOWNSHIP, ONSLOW COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA”, recorded in Map Book 13, Page 77, Onslow County Registry. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 507 Sage Court, Jacksonville, North Carolina.

SUBJECT to any and all Restrictions and Easements of Record.

Property Commonly Known as: Jacksonville, NC 28540

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

SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK

RANDOLPH FILE NO: 22E277 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administrator for the Estate of William Blount (aka William Curtis Blount; William C. Blount) of

NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA GUILFORD COUNTY FILE NO: 21E797 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK

20 SP 82 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, RANDOLPH COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Michael A. Soots and Anita G. Soots to Clint Bonkowski, Trustee(s), which was dated September 30, 2017 and recorded on October 4, 2017 in Book 2566 at Page 780, Randolph 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 March 7, 2023 at 01:00 PM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Randolph County, North Carolina, to

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE FILE NUMBER: 21 SP 18 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust executed by FAYE G HUNT payable to WOLFE FINANCIAL, INC. DBA INTERGRITY MORTGAGE GROUP, Lender, to JULIE H STUBBLEFIELD, Trustee, dated May 12, 2014, and recorded in Book RE2390, Page 559 of the Randolph County Public Registry by Goddard & Peterson, PLLC, Substitute Trustee, default having been made in the terms of agreement set forth by the loan agreement secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Goddard & Peterson, PLLC, , having been substituted as Successor Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Official Records of Randolph County, North Carolina, in Book 2815, Page 1450, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Randolph County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, on March 9, 2023, at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in the County of Randolph, North Carolina, and being more particularly described

STANLY 22 SP 155 NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY COUNTY Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Joshua M. Schrump and Kristina Renee Schrump to Doby and Beaver, Trustee(s), which was dated August 26, 2008 and recorded on August 29, 2008 in Book 1248 at Page 883, Stanly County Registry, North Carolina.

Default having been made of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC, having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust, and the holder of the note evidencing said default having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door of the county courthouse where the property is located,

UNION IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION UNION COUNTY 23sp9 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MICHAEL W. BATSON DATED AUGUST 17, 2007 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 4659 AT PAGE 834 IN THE UNION COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE NORTH CAROLINA, UNION COUNTY 16 SaP 715 Under and by virtue of a Power of Sale contained in that certain Deed of Trust executed by John E. Williams and Victoria C. Williams, in the original amount of $184,187.00, payable to Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc. as nominee for Ryland Mortgage Company, dated August 1, 2007 and recorded on August 6, 2007 in Book 4647, Page 211, Union County Registry.

Default having been made in the payment of the note thereby secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Anchor Trustee Services, LLC having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds of Union County, North Carolina, and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the

507 Sages Court,

NORTH CAROLINA RANDOLPH COUNTY ESTATE OF MARY G. YORK EXECUTORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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

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

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property

party, that party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

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

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the

purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property

The UNDERSIGNED having qualified an Executor of the Estate of Mary G. York Deceased, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Decedent to present the same to the undersigned on or before May 16, 2023, said date being at least three months from the date

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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1281945 - 13007

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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 11048 - 46859

of the first publication or posting of the Notice as indicated below, or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

Name and Address of Executor Carolyn C. Tayloe 668 Turlington Rd. Suffolk, Virginia 23434

This Notice is given pursuant to the provisions of G.S. 28A14-1. This the 22nd day of February 2023.

Dates of Publication: February 15, 2023; February 22, 2023; March 1, 2023; March 8, 2023.

Trinity, Randolph County, NC, 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. Drawer 25008, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27114-5008, on or before the 16th day of May,

2023, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery.

All persons, firms and corporations indebted to said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned.

This the 22nd day of February 2023.

Tasha Penkova

2033 Great Meadow Lane Brentwood, CA 94513 Send claims to: Estate of William Blount Tasha Penkova, Administrator

c/o Melissa L. McKinney Blanco Tackabery & Matamoros, P.A. P.O. Drawer 25008 Winston-Salem, NC 27114-5008 Dates of Publication: 2.22.23, 2/22/23, 3/1/23, 3/8/23

In the General Court of Justice District Court Division 22-CVD-6049 KHALED DAJANI Plaintiff VS. ANGEL DANFORD, Defendant: 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 is seeking an absolute divorce from the Defendant.

You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than thirty (30) days for the civil absolute divorce action after the date of first publication of this Notice (said date of first publication being February 22, 2023) and upon your

failure to do so the party seeking service against you will apply to the court for the relief sought.

This the 22nd day of February 2023.

Tomakio Gause Law Office of Tomakio S. Gause 318 South Eugene Street, Suite 107

Greensboro, NC 27401 tgauselaw@att.net: Email Office: 336-272-4422 Fax: 336-272-5312

of the Estate of Dorothy C. Powers, Deceased, late of Randolph County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the said Decedent to present the same to the undersigned on or before May 16, 2023, said date being at least three months from the date of the first publication or posting of the Notice as indicated below, or the same will be pleaded

in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate, please make immediate payment.

6481 Bellcross Trail Whitsett, NC 27377

This Notice is given pursuant to the provisions of G.S. 28A14-1. This the 22nd day of February 2023.

Dates of Publication: February 22, 2023; March 1, 2023; March 8, 2023; March 15, 2023.

155.00 FEET TO A COMPUTED POINT, SAID COMPUTED POINT BEING THE POINT AND PLACE OF BEGINNING. THIS PROPERTY CONTAINS APPROXIMATELY 1.82 ACRES, AND IS SHOWN ON THE SURVEY PREPARED BY DUNCAN-KENNEDY LAND SURVEYING, PLLC, DATED AUGUST 22, 2007, BEARING JOB NO. S-05707.

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, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Michael A. Soots and wife, Anita G. Soots.

NORTH CAROLINA RANDOLPH COUNTY ESTATE OF DOROTHY C. POWERS ADMINISTRATORS NOTICE TO CREDITORS The UNDERSIGNED having qualified an Administrator

wit: BEGINNING AT A COMPUTED POINT BEING IN THE CENTER LINE OF MAMIE MAY ROAD (NCSR 2136); THENCE SOUTH 82 DEGREES 30 MINUTES 25 SECONDS EAST 30.41 FEET TO AN EXISTING IRON ROD, SAID IRON ROD BEING THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF RICHARD L. FRAZIER (DEED BOOK 1878, PAGE 833); THENCE RUNNING ALONG THE SOUTHERN LINE OF FRAZIER SOUTH 82 DEGREES 30 MINUTES 25 SECONDS EAST 486.88 FEET TO AN EXISTING STONE, SAID STONE BEING IN THE SOUTHERN LINE OF FRAZIER AND THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF TODD & DEBORAH ALLEN (DEED BOOK 1831, PAGE 3929); THENCE ALONG THE WESTERN LINE OF ALLEN SOUTH 4 DEGREES 55 MINUTES 17 SECONDS WEST 154.70 FEET TO AN EXISTING AXLE, SAID AXLE BEING THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF JOSEPH F. CAPPS, JR., ET AL (DEED BOOK 1861, PAGE 1023); THENCE RUNNING ALONG THE NORTHERN LINE OF CAPPS NORTH 82 DEGREES 29 MINUTES 57 SECONDS WEST 511.51 FEET TO A COMPUTED POINT IN THE CENTERLINE OF THE RIGHTOF-WAY OF MAMIE MAY ROAD; THENCE RUNNING ALONG THE CENTERLINE OF MAMIE MAY ROAD NORTH 2 DEGREES 46 MINUTES 59 SECONDS EAST

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

the effective date of the termination.

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

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

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

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

party must pay the excise tax, as well as the court costs of Forty-Five Cents ($0.45) per One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) required by N.C.G.S. §7A-308(a)(1).

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

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is

the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property: An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

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

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

THIS IS A COMMUNICATION FROM A DEBT COLLECTOR. THE PURPOSE OF THIS COMMUNICATION IS TO COLLECT A DEBT AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE, except as stated below in the instance of bankruptcy protection.

IF YOU ARE UNDER THE PROTECTION OF THE BANKRUPTCY COURT OR HAVE BEEN DISCHARGED AS A RESULT OF A BANK-RUPTCY PROCEEDING, THIS NOTICE IS GIVEN TO YOU PURSUANT TO STATUTORY REQUIREMENT AND FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES AND IS NOT INTENDED AS AN ATTEMPT TO COLLECT A DEBT OR AS AN ACT TO COLLECT, ASSESS, OR RECOVER ALL OR ANY PORTION OF THE DEBT FROM YOU PERSONALLY.

or the usual and customary location at the county courthouse for conducting the sale on February 28, 2023 at 11:00 AM, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property situated in Stanly County, North Carolina, to wit: BEGINNING at an iron pipe in the West right-of-way line of Callaway Street, said iron pipe being located in a northwesterly direction 249.25 feet from a point in the North right-of-way line of Shepard Street, and running thence from the beginning existing iron pipe with the line of property owned now or formerly by Tony W. Deese, South 75-51-05 West 272.10 feet to an existing iron pipe; thence with the line of property owned now or formerly by Woodmen of the World, North 24-09-00 West 217.00 feet to an existing iron pipe in the centerline of a branch; thence South 83-28-00 East (passing an existing concrete marker at 84.65 feet) for a total distance of 310.83 feet to an iron pipe in the western right-of-way line of Callaway Street; thence with the western right-of-way line of Callaway Street, South 2430-00 East 105.65 feet to the BEGINNING, containing 0.99 acre and being a portion of Lot #148 and Lot #156, and all of Lots #149, 150, 151, 152, 153, 154 and 155 as appears on a map of property of Mrs. Lizzie Callaway Estate as shown on a plat recorded in Plat Book 3, at

page 95, Stanly County Registry, and as shown on an unrecorded map captioned “Survey for Frank R. Goulding and wife, Frankie H. Goulding”, dated May 28, 1986, and prepared by Martin F. Hennigan, R.L.S. This conveyance is made subject to Deed of Easement to the City of Albemarle recorded in Deed Book 330, at pages 977 and 980, Stanly County Registry.

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

Said property is commonly known as 2011 Callaway St, Albemarle, NC 280010000.

A Certified Check ONLY (no personal checks) of five percent (5%) of the purchase price, or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts are immediately due and owing. THIRD PARTY PURCHASERS MUST PAY THE EXCISE TAX AND THE RECORDING COSTS FOR THEIR DEED. Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance “AS IS WHERE IS.” There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in,

on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale.

This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, any unpaid land transfer taxes, special assessments, easements, rights of way, deeds of release, and any other encumbrances or exceptions of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owner(s) of the property is/are Joshua Michael Schrump and wife, Kristina Renee Schrump.

An Order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to G.S. 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold. Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination [NCGS § 45-21.16A(b)(2)]. Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

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

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 19-20366-FC02

Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Union County courthouse at 10:00AM on March 2, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Union County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Michael W. Batson, dated August 17, 2007 to secure the original principal amount of $221,850.00, and recorded in Book 4659 at Page 834 of the Union County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: 2011 Saye Brook Dr, Monroe, NC 28112 Tax Parcel ID: 09384068 Present Record Owners: The Estate of Michael W. Batson The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are The Estate of Michael W. Batson.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject

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

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession

of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser.

Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is February 10, 2023. _____________________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS. com

undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door or other usual place of sale in Union County, North Carolina, at 2:00PM on March 2, 2023, and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following described property, to wit:

Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00) or fractional part thereof, and the Clerk of Courts fee, pursuant to North Carolina General Statutes §7A-308, in the amount of Forty-five Cents (0.45) per each One Hundred Dollars ($100.00) or fractional part thereof with a maximum amount of Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00). A deposit of five percent (5%) of the bid or Seven Hundred Fifty Dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, will be required at the time of the sale and must be tendered in the form of certified funds. Following the expiration of the statutory upset bid period, all the remaining amounts will be immediately due and owing.

Said property to be offered pursuant to this Notice of Sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS WHERE IS. There are no representations of warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at, or relating to the property being offered for sale.

This sale is made subject to all prior liens, unpaid taxes, special assessments, land transfer taxes, if any, and encumbrances of record. To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the current owners of the property are John E. Williams and Victoria C. Williams

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.

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

as follows: PARCEL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER(S): 7762-31-3876 ADDRESS: 1123 INGRAM DRIVE ASHEBORO, NC 27203 PER DEED BOOK 906, PAGE 577 BEGINNING AT AN IRON STAKE IN THE WESTERN RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF INGRAM ROAD, SAID IRON STAKE BEING LOCATED NORTH 4 DEGREES 47 MINUTES EAST 1,130.77 FEET FROM THE NORTWEST INTERSECTION OF INGRAM ROAD WITH ALLRED ROAD; RUNNING THENCE NORTH 85 DEGREES 02 MINUTES WEST 177.03 FEET TO AN IRON STAKE; THENCE NORTH 4 DEGREES 37 MINUTES EAST 100 FEET TO AN IRON STAKE; THENCE SOUTH 85 DEGREES 02 MINUTES EAST 177.32 FEET TO AN IRON STAKE IN THE WESTERN RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF INGRAM ROAD; THENCE SOUTH 4 DEGREES 47 MINUTES WEST ALONG THE WESTERN RIGHT OF WAY LINE OF INGRAM ROAD 100 FEET TO THE BEGINNING. PARCEL ID: 7762-31-3876 PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): FAYE G. HUNT Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion, delay the sale for up to one hour as provided in N.C.G.S. §4521.23.

Should the property be purchased by a third party, that

Being all of Lot 18, Woodbridge Subdivision, Map 2, as same is shown on map thereof recorded in Plat Cabinet I, File No 24 & 25, Union County, North Carolina Public Registry.

Deed Reference: Book 4362 Page 355 The improvements thereon being known as 4230 Lawrence Daniel Drive, Matthews, NC 28104 Together with improvements located hereon; said property being located at 4230 Lawrence Daniel Drive, Matthews, NC 28104. Tax ID: 07099238 Third party purchasers must pay the recording costs of the trustee’s deed, any land transfer taxes, the excise tax, pursuant North Carolina General Statutes §105228.30, in the amount of One Dollar ($1.00) per each

Said property is commonly known as 1716 Mamie May Rd, Franklinville, NC 27248.

Name and Address of Administrator Jeaninne Russell

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.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may, after receiving the notice of sale, terminate the rental agreement by providing written notice of termination to the landlord, to be effective on a date stated in the notice that is at least 10 days, but no more than 90 days, after the sale date contained in the notice of sale, provided that the mortgagor has not cured the default at the time the tenant provides the notice of termination (North Carolina General Statutes §45-21.16A(b)(2)). Upon termination of a rental agreement, the tenant is liable for rent due under the rental agreement prorated to the effective date of termination. If the Trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such

Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC Substitute Trustee Brock & Scott, PLLC Attorneys for Trustee Services of Carolina, LLC 5431 Oleander Drive Suite 200 Wilmington, NC 28403 PHONE: (910) 392-4988 FAX: (910) 392-8587 File No.: 20-03118-FC01

Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 110 Frederick St, Suite 200 Greenville, South Carolina 29607 Phone: (470) 321-7112, Ext. 204 Fax: 1-919-800-3528 RAS File Number: 21-059050

22-112536

Anchor Trustee Services, LLC Substitute Trustee John P. Fetner, Bar #41811 McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC Attorney for Anchor Trustee Services, LLC 3550 Engineering Drive, Suite 260 Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 404-474-7149 (phone) 404-745-8121 (fax) jfetner@mtglaw.com

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

B12

pen & paper pursuits sudoku

solutions

from February 15, 2023

UNION 22-114312 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION UNION COUNTY 22sp540 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY LLOYD T. MCLAIN DATED NOVEMBER 15, 2012 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 5872 AT PAGE 735 IN THE UNION COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA

WAKE

Notice to Creditors Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Leroy Blount, late of Wake County, North Carolina (2022-E-

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 1434 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Melvin Eugene Abrams (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Melvin Eugene Abrams) to Adelita A. Shubert, Trustee(s), dated April 2, 2012, and recorded in Book No. 14731, at Page 810 in Wake County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Wake County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales,

IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION 22SP1895 STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF WAKE NOTICE OF SALE IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY MARK S. JENSEN AND JULIE A. JENSEN DATED FEBRUARY 16, 2006 RECORDED IN BOOK 11820 AT PAGE 2590 IN THE WAKE COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINAUnder and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the abovereferenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements therein contained and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Wake

NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 22 SP 2295 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Robert O. Drefke (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Robert O. Drefke) to John C. Morisey, Jr. and Steven R. Mull, Trustee(s), dated March 31, 2005, and recorded in Book No. 011292, at Page 02059 in Wake County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Wake County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the Wake County Courthouse door, the Salisbury Street entrance in Raleigh, Wake County, North Carolina, or

NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Union County courthouse at 10:00AM on March 1, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Union County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Lloyd T. McLain, dated November 15, 2012 to secure the original principal amount of $106,481.00, and recorded in Book 5872 at Page 735 of the Union County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate,

Notice to Creditors Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Letha J. Shull, late of Wake County, North Carolina (2023-E-532), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and

but no representation or warranty is intended.

2 2 0 9 Address of property: Canterbury Ln, Monroe, NC 28112 091-251-43 Tax Parcel ID: Estate Present Record Owners: of Lloyd Timothy Mclain The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Estate of Lloyd Timothy Mclain.

The property to be offered pursuant to this notice of sale is being offered for sale, transfer and conveyance AS IS, WHERE IS. Neither the Trustee nor the holder of the note secured by the deed of trust being foreclosed, nor the officers, directors, attorneys, employees, agents or authorized representative of either the Trustee or the holder of the note make any representation or warranty relating to the title or any physical, environmental, health or safety conditions existing in, on, at or relating to the property offered for sale. Any and all responsibilities or

corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 17th day of May 2023 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.

2000), the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the estate of said decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before the 17th day of May 2023 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.

at 1:30 PM on March 6, 2023 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: All that certain lot or parcel of land situated in Raleigh Township, Wake County, North Carolina and more particularly described as follows: Being all of Lot No. 19, Block H, according to plat entitled “Eastgate III, Raleigh, N.C.,” dated October 15, 1965, prepared by Castleberry-Edgerton Co., Consulting Engineers, and recorded in Book of Maps 1965, Page 277, Volume 3, Wake County Registry, North Carolina.

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

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).

County courthouse at 10:00 AM on March 8, 2023, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Wake County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed by Mark S. Jensen; Julie A. Jensen, dated February 16, 2006 to secure the original principal amount of $240,000.00, and recorded in Book 11820 at Page 2590 of the Wake County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended.

Address of property: Ravine Road, Wake Forest, NC 27587 Tax Parcel ID: Present Record Owners: Jensen; Julie A. Jensen

2709

Blue

0234248 Mark S.

the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 1:30 PM on March 6, 2023 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Cary in the County of Wake, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows: BEING all of Unit 14D, Building 14, Chesapeake Condominiums, as set forth in Condominium File No 67 and as described in Declaration of Covenants as record in Deed Book 3383, Page 255, Wake County Registry.

Including the unit located thereon said unit being located at 101 Oyster Bay Court, B2, Cary, North Carolina.

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

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

The property to be offered pursuant to

This the 22nd day of February 2023.

The record owner(s) of the property, according to the records of the Register of Deeds, is/are Mark S. Jensen and Julie A. Jensen.

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

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.

liabilities arising out of or in any way relating to any such condition expressly are disclaimed. This sale is subject to all prior liens and encumbrances and unpaid taxes and assessments including any transfer tax associated with the foreclosure. A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

Cash will not be accepted. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

This the 15th day of February 2023.

Linwood Turlington Executor of the Estate of Letha J. Shull c/o Lisa M. Schreiner

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October 1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is January 13, 2023. _____________________________________ Jason K. Purser, NCSB# 28031 Morgan R. Lewis, NCSB# 57732 Attorney for LLG Trustee, LLC, Substitute Trustee LOGS Legal Group LLP 10130 Perimeter Parkway, Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28216 (704) 333-8107 | (704) 333-8156 Fax | www.LOGS.com 22-114312

Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446 114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 2/15, 2/22, 3/1, 3/8/2023)

Lillie M. Wilson Administrator of the Estate of Leroy Blount c/o Lisa M. Schreiner Attorney at Law P.O. Box 446

114 Raleigh Street Fuquay Varina, NC 27526 (For publication: 2/15, 2/22, 3/1, 3/8/2023)

the form of certified funds at the time of the sale.

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed

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

A deposit of five percent (5%) of the amount of the bid or seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), whichever is greater, is required from the highest bidder and must be tendered in the form of certified funds at the time of the sale. This sale will be held open ten days for upset bids as required by law. After the expiration of the upset period, all remaining amounts are IMMEDIATELY DUE AND OWING. Failure to remit funds in a timely manner will result in a Declaration of Default and any deposit will be frozen pending the outcome of any re-sale. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Substitute Trustee or the attorney of any of the foregoing.

SPECIAL NOTICE FOR LEASEHOLD TENANTS residing at the property: be advised that an Order for Possession of the property may be issued in favor of the purchaser. Also, if your lease began or was renewed on or after October

If the trustee is unable to convey title to this property for any reason, the sole remedy of the purchaser is the return of the deposit. Reasons of such inability to convey include, but are not limited to, the filing of a bankruptcy petition prior to the confirmation of the sale and reinstatement of the loan without the knowledge of the trustee. If the validity of the sale is challenged by any party, the trustee, in its sole discretion, if it believes the challenge to have merit, may request the court to declare the sale to be void and return the deposit. The purchaser will have no further remedy.

Additional Notice for Residential Property with Less than 15 rental units, including Single-Family Residential Real Property An order for possession of the property may be issued pursuant to N.C.G.S. § 45-21.29 in favor of the purchaser and against the party or parties in possession by the clerk of superior court of the county in which the property is sold.

Any person who occupies the property pursuant to a rental agreement entered into or renewed on or after October 1, 2007, may after receiving the notice

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 1993 - 39326

1, 2007, be advised that you may terminate the rental agreement upon 10 days written notice to the landlord. You may be liable for rent due under the agreement prorated to the effective date of the termination.

The date of this Notice is 15th day of February, 2023.

Grady I. Ingle, Attorney for Substitute Trustee Ingle Law Firm, PA 13801 Reese Blvd West Suite 160 Huntersville, NC 28078 (980) 771-0717 Ingle Case Number: 13133-17833

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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Hutchens Law Firm P.O. Box 1028 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, North Carolina 28311 Phone No: (910) 864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 7446 - 28399

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 16 | WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2023 | STANLYJOURNAL.COM

THE STANLY COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

AP PHOTO

This file photo from Sept. 11, 2019 shows medications in a locked storage area that are slated for destruction.

COUNTY NEWS Uwharrie Brewing to hold grand opening event this Saturday Uwharrie Brewing, the first brewery to open its doors in Albemarle, is set to hold its grand opening this Saturday, February 25. The ribbon-cutting ceremony with the Chamber of Commerce will take place at 2 pm, followed by great beer, food trucks, and the Tomahawk Range Mobile Booth until 11 pm. Joy and the Gent will also be playing music at the event from 8 pm until 10 pm. Uwharrie Brewing will officially become Stanly County’s second brewery, following the opening of the Brew Room in Locust this past Summer. The brewery is located in an old firehouse building off 121 N. 3rd Street in Albemarle.

Pfeiffer University announces Fall 2022 dean’s list Pfeiffer University recently announced its dean’s list recipients for their Fall 2022 semester. To be named to the dean’s list, students must have earned at least a GPA of 3.5 and have been enrolled in 12 semester credit hours. Students from Stanly County who were honored include Onalase Baucom of Locust, Mary Bowers of Albemarle, Allison Burrage of Richfield, Jackie Burris of Albemarle, Adison Campbell of Norwood, Ashley Cody of Richfield, Abria Currie of Albemarle, Jessica Donaldson of Richfield, Lawson Eudy of Stanfield, Ruth Fallen of Albemarle, Lucie Featherstone of Albemarle, Hayden Furr of New London, Sydney Hall of Badin, Joshua Hartsell of Albemarle, Kylie Hathcock of Albemarle, Mattie Hinson of Norwood, Marina Hooker of New London, Kellie Johnson of Norwood, Benjamin Judge of New London, William Little of Albemarle, Brady Parker of Oakboro, Courtney Perry of Stanfield, Summer Pulliam of Richfield, Cortney Queen of Albemarle, Lia Rain of Stanfield, Jack Rummage of Richfield and Jaden Sherrill of Albemarle, Mary Stewart of Norwood, Lily Taylor of Misenheimer, Kaidyn Waggoner of Albemarle.

Stanly commissioners approve additional opioid settlement funding

By Jesse Deal North State Journal ALBEMARLE — At its February 20 meeting, the Stanly County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution that authorizes the county to enter into new opioid settlement agreements with Walmart, Walgreens, CVS, Allergan, and Teva.

With the five new national pharmacy settlements totaling $21 billion, Stanly County is expected to receive an additional $3.738 million over thirteen years from the Wave Two Settlements in order to locally address opioid misuse disorder.

The combined projected allocations for the county from both the first and second round of settlements now sits at $8.4 million.

“In order to receive these Wave Two Settlements, Stanly Coun-

ty must sign on to each of these five new national pharmacy settlements,” County Manager Andy Lucas told the commissioners.

“And then also there’ll be a supplement to the MOA that we have with the North Carolina Department of Justice, which governs how the opioid settlement funds are used at the local level. That supplement is being referred to as the SAAF (Supplement Agreement for Additional Funds from Additional Settlements of Opioid), and the deadline to do that is April 18.”

In the county’s official resolution, it notes that it experienced 27 overdose deaths attributed to opioid misuse in 2021, with a rate of 43 per 100,000 residents, exceeding the statewide rate of 38.5 per 100,000 residents. Between 2000 and 2021, the opioid overdose epidemic claimed the lives

“The opioid crisis doesn’t differentiate between economic status, community status, what sex you are or what color you are — it’s an equal opportunity offender.”

Rep. Wayne Sasser of over 32,000 citizens statewide.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention now estimates the total economic burden of prescription opioid misuse alone in the U.S. is $78.5 billion a year, including the costs of healthcare, lost productivity, addiction treatment, and criminal

justice involvement.

“We need some treatment facilities in Stanly County because there are problems here that we will continue to have until we start addressing them,” House District 67 Rep. Wayne Sasser (R-Stanly) told SCJ following the Wave One Settlements. “Hopefully, we do a better job with the opioid settlement money than we did with the tobacco settlement money because we need it to get people off drugs and hopefully save lives. The opioid crisis doesn’t differentiate between economic status, community status, what sex you are or what color you are — it’s an equal opportunity offender.”

The Stanly County Board of Commissioners will hold its next meeting on March 6 in the Gene McIntyre Room at Stanly Commons.

State treasurer reacts to litigation filed over State Health Plan contract change

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — As expected, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC has filed litigation paperwork over the change in the State Health Plan’s third-party administrator contract that was awarded to Aetna earlier this year.

Both Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC and UMR, Inc. filed protests over the decision to award the contract to Aetna, however, the State Health Plan’s Board of Trustees rejected the claims.

Per a statement from Folwell’s office, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC has filed a request for a contested case hearing in the North Carolina Office of Administrative Hearings and a petition for judicial review in Durham County Superior Court in the matter.

“We are disappointed, but not surprised that these legal challenges were taken,” Folwell’s statement says. “We are looking forward to vigorously defending the unanimous decision of the State Health Plan Board of Trustees - consisting of members appointed by the governor, president pro-tempore of the Senate, speaker of the House, and the treasurer - to accept the recommendation of the Plan’s professional staff. We continue to be intently focused on the needs of our members who teach, protect and otherwise serve the people of North Carolina and taxpayers like them.”

All documents and filings related to the third-party administrator contract are available for public viewing via a portal on the State Health Plan’s website.

“We continue to be intently focused on the needs of our members who teach, protect and otherwise serve the people of North Carolina and taxpayers like them.”

State Treasurer Dale Folwell

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Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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Stanly County Journal ISSN: 2575-2278 Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Griffin Daughtry Local News Editor Cory Lavalette Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1550 N.C. Hwy 24/27 W, Albemarle, N.C. 28001 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 STANLYJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $50.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

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WEEKLY CRIME LOG ♦ GRANADOSSOTO, ERMELANDO NMN (U /M/27), ATTEMPTED POSSESSION OF COCAINE, 2/19/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office ♦ HARTSELL, CALEB JONAS (W /M/30), FAIL REGISTER SEX OFFENDER(F), 02/17/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office ♦ LILES, LEO THOMAS (B /M/39), BREAKING OR ENTERING (M), 02/17/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office ♦ FREEMAN, MICHAEL CURTIS (W /M/40), PWIMSD SCH II CS, 02/15/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office ♦ LEARY, ANGELO NMN (B /M/51), FAIL REGISTER SEX OFFENDER(F), 02/15/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office ♦ BROWER, COREY JASON (B /M/34), DRIVING WHILE IMPAIRED, 02/14/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office ♦ CHAMBERS, NORMAN (B /M/30), UNSAFE PASSING YELLOW LINE (I), 02/14/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office ♦ LOWDER, ADAM NICHOLAS (W /M/43), INCEST, 02/14/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office ♦ VANHOY-WALKER, ANTHONY SNEAD (W /M/26), ROBBERY WITH DANGEROUS WEAPON, 02/14/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office ♦ HOBBS, DASHEEM LAWRENCE (B /M/31), PWIMSD HEROIN, 02/13/2023, Stanly County Sheriff’s Office

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NC congressman, senator Broyhill dies at 95 The Associated Press JIM BROYHILL, a longtime North Carolina Republican congressman who served briefly in the U.S. Senate to fill a vacancy before losing a bid to keep the job, died early Saturday at age 95, his family said.

Broyhill, a scion of the Broyhill Furniture business in the North Carolina foothills that brought jobs and prestige to the region, died at Arbor Acres retirement home in Winston-Salem, according to his son, Ed. He had suffered from congestive heart failure for years that worsened in recent months, his son said Saturday.

The moderate Republican served more than 23 years in the House. He was considered a reliable conservative who helped North Carolina turn into a competitive two-party state, particularly as the GOP made national gains in the 1980s with Ronald Reagan.

In a video interview in honor of receiving a state award in 2015, Broyhill recalled the dearth of Republicans on the first state ballot he filled out in 1948.

“I was determined that I’m going to do what I could to see if we could not develop a two-party system in our state,” Broyhill said.

“And I think I had a great deal to accomplish that, but with the help and the leadership of many other people.”

GOP Gov. Jim Martin appointed Broyhill to replace Republican Sen. John East when East died by suicide in June 1986.

Broyhill had already won the Senate GOP primary a month earlier against David Funderburk, who had the support of Sen. Jesse Helms’ national organization that backed hardline Republicans.

East wasn’t seeking reelection due to medical issues.

The Senate appointment was viewed as an asset to help Broyhill in his fall general election against former Gov. Terry Sanford, a Democrat and outgoing Duke University president. Sanford narrowly defeated Broyhill in two elections that November -- one to serve out the rest of 1986 and another for

PHOTO VIA AP

President Ford talks with North Carolina Congressman Jim Broyhill, left, and Sen. Jesse Helms, center, during a Republican fund raising visit to Raleigh in this Nov. 14, 1975 photo. the next six years.

Expected initially to be a lowkey affair, the campaign took on the intensity of a modern, more divisive campaign. Reagan came to Charlotte to campaign for Broyhill. In a recent interview, Martin said he’s unsure whether appointing Broyhill to the Senate ultimately aided his campaign.

“He wasn’t able to spend as much time campaigning because he was intensely dependable on fulfilling his Senate duties,” Martin said.

Broyhill’s Capitol Hill career began with a surprising U.S. House victory in 1962.

When Democrats attempted to redraw the district of the lone Republican in the House delegation after the 1960 census in hopes of defeating him, the adjoining district became more Republican, according to a biography of Martin.

That opened the door for Broyhill, who had worked at the family business for close to two decades, to upset Democratic incumbent

Hugh Quincy Alexander.

While he never served in a Republican-controlled chamber until his Senate appointment, Broyhill flexed his political muscles for Republican presidential administrations in the House and built support for their agendas with Democrats.

In the interview highlighting his 2015 award, Broyhill recalled legislation he helped pass to create the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Broyhill’s family and others cited his efforts to create energy policies, and deregulate the telecommunications, pharmaceutical and trucking industries.

Frank Drendel, founder of coaxial cable producer CommScope based in Hickory, said on Saturday that Broyhill’s work to get a law passed in 1978 so that cable companies could connect their cables to other utility poles helped the cable industry soar.

Broyhill “set an example that sadly we don’t have much of today and that is to cross the aisle and

Celebs tout ice baths, but science on benefits is lukewarm

“It felt like I was being stabbed with hundreds of millions of really small electrical needles,” he said. “I felt like I was strong and powerful and could do anything.”

But Cronenwett says studying cold water immersion with a gold-standard randomized controlled trial is challenging because devising a placebo for cold plunges could be difficult.

There are a few theories on how it affects the psyche.

Cronenwett says cold water immersion stimulates the part of the nervous system that controls the resting or relaxation state. That may enhance feelings of well-being.

It also stimulates the part of the nervous system that regulates fight-or-flight stress response.

Doing it on a regular basis may dampen that response, which could in turn help people feel better able to handle other stresses in their lives, although that is not proven, he said.

“You have to conquer your own trepidation. You have to muster the courage to do it,” he said.

“And when you finally do it, you feel like you’ve accomplished something meaningful. You’ve achieved a goal.”

The Associated Press THE COOLEST THING on social media these days may be celebrities and regular folks plunging into frigid water or taking ice baths.

The touted benefits include improved mood, more energy, weight loss and reduced inflammation, but the science supporting some of those claims is lukewarm.

Kim Kardashian posted her foray on Instagram. Kristen Bell says her plunges are “brutal” but mentally uplifting. And Lizzo claims ice plunges reduce inflammation and make her body feel better.

Here’s what medical evidence, experts and fans say about the practice, which dates back centuries.

THE MIND You might call Dan O’Conor an amateur authority on cold water immersion. Since June 2020, the 55-year-old Chicago man has plunged into Lake Michigan almost daily, including on frigid winter mornings when he has to shovel through the ice.

“The endorphin rush … is an incredible way to wake up and just kind of shock the body and get the engine going,” O’Conor

said on a recent morning when the air temperature was a frosty 23 degrees. Endorphins are “feel good” hormones released in response to pain, stress, exercise and other activities.

With the lake temperature 34 degrees, the bare-chested O’Conor did a running jump from the snow-covered shore to launch a forward flip into the icy gray water.

His first plunge came early in the pandemic, when he went on a bourbon bender and his annoyed wife told him to “go jump in the lake.” The water felt good that June day. The world was in a coronavirus funk, O’Conor says, and that made him want to continue. As the water grew colder with the seasons, the psychological effect was even greater, he said.

“My mental health is a lot stronger, a lot brighter. I found some Zen down here coming down and jumping into the lake and shocking that body,” O’Conor said.

Dr. Will Cronenwett, chief of psychiatry at Northwestern University’s Feinberg medical school, tried cold-water immersion once, years ago while visiting Scandinavian friends on a Baltic island.

After a sauna, he jumped into the ice-cold water for a few minutes and had what he called an intense and invigorating experience.

THE HEART Cold water immersion raises blood pressure and increases stress on the heart. Studies have shown this is safe for healthy people and the effects are only temporary.

But it can be dangerous for people with heart trouble, sometimes leading to life-threatening irregular heartbeats, Cronenwett said.

People with heart conditions or a family history of early heart disease should consult a physician before plunging, he said.

come up with solutions that are nonpartisan,” said former Glaxo Wellcome CEO Bob Ingram, a North Carolina resident who knew Broyhill while working in Washington. “He wanted to get to the best answer to solve problems.”

After his 1986 defeat, Broyhill served on North Carolina’s Economic Development Board. Martin later picked him to serve in his second-term Cabinet as commerce secretary, saying he had “impeccable connections with North Carolina industry.”

A native of Lenoir, James Thomas Broyhill graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1950, according to his official congressional biography. His father, J.E. Broyhill, began the family’s furniture dynasty in 1926 as the Lenoir Chair Company and was a well-known Republican in his own right.

“Jim added to that and made his contribution in a huge way as a member of Congress,” Martin said. “That family tradition has given an enormous boost to the Republican Party.” Ed Broyhill is now a Republican National Committee member.

Recently retired Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C., who was recruited by Broyhill to run for Congress more than 30 years ago, said he would be remembered as “a gentlemen and a statesman,” and called him a “mentor and confidant.”

“I always knew I could trust his advice and counsel because he viewed everything through the lens of what’s best for the country,” Burr said.

Current Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper praised Broyhill on Saturday in a tweet for his commitment and service to the state.

The congressman was preceded in death by his son, Philip. In addition to Ed Broyhill, other survivors of Broyhill include his wife of 71 years, Louise R. Broyhill; his daughter, Marilyn Broyhill Beach of Winston-Salem; six grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Broyhill’s funeral will be Feb. 28 at Centenary United Methodist Church in Winston-Salem, with a graveside service later that day in Wilkes County.

METABOLISM Repeated cold-water immersions during winter months have been shown to improve how the body responds to insulin, a hormone that controls blood sugar levels, Mercer noted. This might help reduce risks for diabetes or keep the disease under better control in people already affected, although more studies are needed to prove that.

Cold water immersion also activates brown fat — tissue that helps keep the body warm and helps it control blood sugar and insulin levels. It also helps the body burn calories, which has prompted research into whether cold water immersion is an effective way to lose weight. The evidence so far is inconclusive.

IMMUNE SYSTEM Anecdotal research suggests that people who routinely swim in chilly water get fewer colds, and there’s evidence that it can increase levels of certain white blood cells and other infection-fighting substances.

Among the biggest unanswered questions: How cold does water have to be to achieve any health benefits? And will a quick dunk have the same effect as a long swim?

“There is no answer to ‘the colder the better,’” Mercer said.

“Also, it depends on the type of response you are looking at. For example, some occur very quickly, like changes in blood pressure. ...

Others, such as the formation of brown fat, take much longer.”

O’Conor plunges year-round, but he says winter dunks are the best for “mental clarity,” even if they sometimes last only 30 seconds.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

OPINION

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Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

James Clapper can’t stop lying

The laptop lie began, as is often the case, with Adam Schiff, the California congressman who used the intelligence committee as a partisan disinfo clearinghouse.

IN AN INTERVIEW with The Washington Post’s “fact-checker,” former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper contends that Politico misled the public about a letter he and 50 other former intel officials signed during the 2020 presidential campaign warning that the New York Post’s Hunter Biden laptop story could be Russian deception. “There was message distortion,” Clapper tells The Washington Post. “All we were doing was raising a yellow flag that this could be Russian disinformation. Politico deliberately distorted what we said. It was clear in paragraph five.”

It was not clear, at all. The purpose of the letter, apparent then as it is now, was to discredit the Post’s scoop and provide Democrats and the media with ammunition to reject it. Of course, intel officials couldn’t definitively say that Hunter’s emails, which implicated Joe Biden as a business partner, were concocted by Vladimir Putin’s spooks. They had no access to the laptop. The purpose was to enlist former intel chiefs to cast doubt on the story. A perfunctory CYA paragraph doesn’t change anything.

The laptop lie began, as is often the case, with Adam Schiff, the California congressman who used the intelligence committee as a partisan disinfo clearinghouse. As soon as the story broke, Schiff claimed that “we know” — a phrase he used numerous times — that the emails had been planted by the Kremlin. By then, though, everyone understood the congressman was an irredeemable liar. The director of national intelligence, John Ratcliffe, issued a statement stressing that, actually, there was no evidence to back Schiff’s claims.

That’s when Politico reported that more than 50 former senior intelligence officials had signed a letter asserting that the laptop “has all the classic earmarks of a Russian information operation.” The most notable signees were Clapper, a man who ran a domestic surveillance program and then lied about it to Congress, and former CIA director John Brennan, a man who once oversaw an operation of illegal spying on a Senate staffer, and then also lied about it to the American people.

The letter worked exactly as intended. “Look,” Biden said during the last 2020 presidential debate when asked about the laptop, “there are 50 former national intelligence folks who said that what he’s accusing me of is a Russian plan.” On “60 Minutes,” Biden called the story “disinformation from the Russians.” Clapper tells The Washington Post that he had absolutely no idea how the former vice president had framed the contents of the letter — which is, to be generous, implausible nonsense.

If Clapper’s letter was merely a good-faith warning, then why didn’t any of the other signees push back against Biden’s contention during their numerous television appearances? Did none of them watch the

presidential debates? Why didn’t Clapper send a follow-up statement clarifying his position after the Politico headline purportedly “distorted” the letter? Did he not see the piece until now — just as Republicans are about to investigate?

All the Post’s pedantic “fact check” does is offer the signees, and itself, cover. The Washington Post excuses the media’s (ongoing) suppression of the Hunter Biden story by arguing that the “leak of emails from the Democratic National Committee and Clinton campaign chairman John Podesta,” which “may have contributed to Donald Trump’s unexpected victory in 2016,” made journalists extra cautious about relaying uncorroborated information. That contention is gravely undercut by the hundreds of pieces and columns the Post ran based on the Democratic oppo research that contained what was almost surely Russian disinformation. Any skeptical journalist would have also immediately identified the letter, and the Politico piece, as a nakedly partisan attempt to undermine the legitimacy of a story.

Indeed, the New York Post’s Hunter story had far more substantiation than any of the histrionic Russia-collusion pieces that the public was subjected to during the Trump years. The Post detailed how it came into possession of its evidence. It interviewed the owner of the Delaware computer shop where Hunter had abandoned his laptop. It provided Hunter’s signature on a receipt. The Post had on-the-record sources with intimate knowledge of Hunter’s business dealings. They had onthe-record interviews with people who claimed to have interactions with the presidential candidate — incidents we now know Biden had lied about for years. And later, the emails were authenticated by forensic specialists at other outlets, as well.

Virtually the entire censorious journalistic establishment, including The Washington Post, with the help of tech giants and former spooks, limited the story’s exposure by either banning it outright as disinformation, creating the impression that it didn’t meet proper journalistic standards or implying that it had been planted by Russians.

The media wasn’t going to allow another Hillary Clinton-like scandal to sink the prospects of a Democrat. And Clapper played a big part in that deception.

David Harsanyi is a senior editor at The Federalist. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of five books — the most recent, “Eurotrash: Why America Must Reject the Failed Ideas of a Dying Continent.”

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

Young Americans are losing their minds.

The social left is to blame.

The answer to five decades of social Leftism resulting in two generations unmoored from mental health is... more social Leftism!

THIS WEEK, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new data showing that our nation’s young girls are in a state of absolute emotional and mental crisis.

According to the CDC, 57% of high school girls said they were depressed in 2021, compared with 36% in 2011; 30% said they had considered suicide, compared with 19% in 2011. The numbers had also increased markedly for high school boys: 29% of high school boys reported depressive symptoms, up from 21% in 2011; 14% of high school boys had considered suicide, up from 13% a decade before.

Naturally, our nation’s pseudoscientific experts blame societal intolerance and lack of sexual sensitivity. Never mind the fact that more kids than ever are declaring themselves members of nonexistent identity groups (Demisexual! Gender nonbinary!), mistakenly self-diagnosing with Tourette’s syndrome or gender dysphoria, and claiming victimhood at the hands of a cruel society — a society that rewards and cheers all such claims. Never mind that we’ve now undergone a gender revolution in which we’ve declared biological sex itself passe, treated heterosexual norms as taboo and misogynistic and attempted to wipe away — along with actual sexual predation — much normal behavior in the name of #MeToo. No, says the CDC, the problem — as always — is with society’s demands. As The Wall Street Journal reports, the CDC recommends “teaching kids about sexual consent, managing emotions, and asking for what they need”; furthermore, “Schools should encourage gender and sexuality alliances, provide safe spaces and people for LGBTQ+ students to go to for support, and ensure enforcement of antiharassment policies.”

Yes, the answer to five decades of social Leftism resulting in two generations unmoored from mental health is... more social Leftism!

Or, alternatively, any society that attempts to destroy all rules, roles and intermediate institutions laden with traditional values will end up

abandoning its children — all in the name of tolerance and diversity. We have robbed young men of a sense of meaning: we’ve told them that they need not be providers, protectors or defenders, and that even aspiring to do so makes them bigoted remnants of the past. Instead, young men are told that they ought to relegate themselves to the role of “male feminists,” condemning their own “toxic masculinity” while shying away from the commitments that turn boys into men.

We have robbed young women of any sense of place, time or purpose: we’ve told them that they need not seek out a husband, aspire to bear and rear children or make preparations to build a home. Instead, we’ve told them that they can run from their own biology, declaring themselves boys rather than girls, delaying childbearing indefinitely, pursuing the things that are supposedly truly important: sexual license, more work hours, sipping wine at brunch with single friends.

We have done all of this because children do not lie at the top of our civilizational hierarchy: the interests of adults do. Increasingly, adults in the West see children as either a burden and thus avoid having them, or as validators of their own sense of subjective self-identity, requiring indoctrination into more liberal forms of social organization.

And now children are paying the price.

The social Left has been in control of virtually all levers of culture and policy for decades. Now they demand more control in order to alleviate the consequences of the chaos they have created. The answer, of course, is precisely the opposite: the reinvigoration of traditional sources of wisdom and values, the re-inculcation of morality and obligation. If our society does not quickly reverse field, the consequences for our young people will be utterly disastrous.

Ben Shapiro, 38, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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SPORTS SIDELINE REPORT NFL

Bieniemy leaves Chiefs for OC role with Commanders Eric Bieniemy has agreed to be the Commanders’ offensive coordinator and assistant head coach. The team announced Saturday that the two-time Super Bowl-winning assistant with Kansas City will be joining Washington.

Bieniemy now gets the chance to show what he can do without Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes.

The 54-year-old emerged from a pool of more than a half-dozen candidates as Washington’s choice for the job following the Chiefs’ second championship in his five seasons as their offensive coordinator. The longtime NFL assistant has interviewed for numerous head coaching jobs.

NBA

Westbrook to sign with Clippers Los Angeles After being waived by the Jazz, Russell Westbrook is expected to sign with the Clippers. The nine-time All-Star will sign with the Clippers after completing a contract buyout on the remaining $47 million he is owed on his expiring deal.

Westbrook averaged 15.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 7.1 assists in 28.7 minutes per game during a rocky tenure with the Lakers. The move would reunite Westbrook with Paul George, his former teammate in Oklahoma City. George had lobbied for the Clippers to land Westbrook.

NHL

Blues trade O’Reilly, Acciari to Maple Leafs St. Louis The Blues are looking to the future after trading captain and center Ryan O’Reilly along with center Noel Acciari to the Maple Leafs on Friday night. St. Louis acquired Toronto’s 2023 first-round draft pick and 2024 second-round draft pick and Ottawa’s 2023 third-round pick from the Maple Leafs along with AHL forwards Mikhail Abramov and Adam Gaudette. The trade comes with St. Louis sitting eight points out of a playoff spot with a 26-25-3 record entering play Saturday.

The Blues traded forward Vladimir Tarasenko and defenseman Niko Mikkola to the Rangers on Feb. 9.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

UNLV freshman football player dies Las Vegas UNLV announced that defensive lineman Ryan Keeler died Monday. He was 20. No cause of death was given. Keeler, who is from Chicago, transferred to UNLV from Rutgers last year. He played in seven games as a redshirt freshman this past season, totaling eight tackles and a sack. Keeler, who made the academic All-Mountain West team, had a 3.80 GPA. “We are devastated to have lost a member of our Rebel family,” UNLV coach Barry Odom said in a statement.

AP PHOTO

Former NASCAR driver Richard Petty, center, poses for a photo with Jimmie Johnson, left, and Erik Jones, right, at Daytona International Speedway last week.

Dethroned King: Petty hurt as Johnson takes over race team The two living seven-time Cup champions are at odds over Johnson’s rebranding The Associated Press DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Richard Petty may still reign as NASCAR’s King, but with Jimmie Johnson wresting control of Petty’s old race team, he is definitively not the boss.

The Hall of Famer essentially has been stripped of power inside his former eponymous team that rapidly rebranded and rebuilt since November. Johnson and Petty are the only living seven-time NASCAR champions — and that appears to be where the similarities end inside Legacy Motor Club’s front office.

The 85-year-old Petty, who is officially Legacy’s ambassador, said Saturday he has bruised feelings and little say in the direction of the race team since Johnson bought into the ownership group.

“It’s been strange to me,” Petty said. “Most of the time, I ran the majority of the show. Jimmie brought all his people in. His way of running things and my way of running things are probably a little bit different. We probably agree on about 50% of what it really comes down to.”

Ahead of the Daytona 500, an unfiltered Petty said he was irked

by Johnson’s rise in power. “Yes, it does” bother him, he said.

But Petty conceded it was “probably time for a change” because through several incarnations of his race team — the latest Petty GMS — his cars had never risen above the middle of the pack. GMS founder Maury Gallagher, chairman of Allegiant Air, purchased Richard Petty Motorsports in 2021 and Petty, whose 200 Cup wins as a driver are a record, served as the front man.

Johnson told The Associated Press he was “disappointed” that Petty publicly expressed his displeasure, adding: “Of course, we’ll have conversations.”

“Jimmie’s thinking further ahead with his crew and came up with a new name.”

Richard Petty “He’s not expressed them to me, for starters,” Johnson said. “Honestly, there are a lot of moving pieces to this. There are business decisions that are taking place between Mr. Gallagher and the Petty family before I ever arrived. Those are details that are just not my place to say.

“But a lot of what Richard is speaking to is based on business decisions that he and his family have made and they aren’t relative to my involvement.”

One of Johnson’s first decisions: Strip the Petty name that dates in NASCAR to 1949.

“When Jimmie came in, it was

going to be hard to be Johnson Petty GMS,” Petty said. “Jimmie’s thinking further ahead with his crew and came up with a new name.”

The Level Cross native remains NASCAR’s most recognizable personality, wearing his feathered Charlie 1 Horse hats, dark glasses and cowboy boots. He’s never stopped signing autographs, making personal appearances or glad-handing sponsors, though even those responsibilities seem more uncertain under Johnson’s reign.

“They don’t take over the racing part, they take over the front office,” Petty said. “With sponsorships, appearances and all that stuff, Jimmie’s crowd is kind of controlling that. That’s something I never had to put up with, I guess.”

Petty did tip his hat to Johnson’s business acumen: Johnson’s connections with Gibson guitars and music industry relationships, including entertainment giant Live Nation, were instrumental in landing legendary rock band Guns N’ Roses on the hood of Erik Jones’ No. 43 Chevrolet.

“He’s basically going to wind up running the show in four or five years completely,” Petty said. “He’ll probably be the majority owner or the owner of our operation. They’re looking at things completely differently.”

Trea Turner settling in for long future in Philadelphia The former NC State infielder signed a $300 million contract with the Phillies during the offseason

The Associated Press CLEARWATER, Fla. — The past few years have been a bit of a whirlwind for Trea Turner. They included a World Series title in Washington, a trade to Los Angeles — and then an 11-year, $300 million contract that brought him back to the NL East.

The one constant amid all that: Turner has played with some pretty impressive teammates. And that’s not about to change.

“I’ve been on some really, really good teams with some great players — last year being one of them,” Turner, the former NC State standout, said Sunday. “That’s kind of the beauty and the difficult thing about baseball. The best teams don’t always win. Just because we got a lot of talent in here and a lot of good guys, and they made it to the World Series last year, doesn’t mean it’s going to happen again.

You’ve got to put in the work.”

The Phillies seemed to understand that this offseason. Yes, they won the National League pennant last year, but they were also an 87win wild card appearing in the postseason for the first time in over a decade. And Philadelphia shares a division with teams in Atlanta and New York that appear formidable for the foreseeable future.

Signing Turner, a 29-year-old

AP PHOTO

Phillies shortstop Trea Turner smiles during a spring training workout last Friday in Clearwater, Florida. shortstop who has been an AllStar the past two years, showed the Phillies are willing to stay aggressive, too.

It also gave Turner some stability. Washington declined quickly after winning the World Series in 2019. The Nationals eventually dealt both Turner and Max Scherzer to the Dodgers two seasons later. That put Turner right back in the postseason for a couple years.

All that moving — plus a pan-

demic and a lockout that created doubts about whether baseball would be played at all — could wear on anyone. But now Turner has a long-term deal with another strong team.

“That’s something that me, my wife and my family wanted, was just, not have to rent anymore, not have to move around, not have to worry about getting traded,” he said. “A lot of guys, probably overwhelming majority, don’t get to choose where they get to play for

their career. Luckily enough, I was in a situation where I could pick.

I’m stuck here, and nobody can tell me otherwise, so I think I’m really happy about that, that security.”

Turner’s deal included a full notrade provision.

In Philadelphia’s clubhouse at spring training, Turner’s locker is right next to Bryce Harper’s. The two played together in Washington before Harper signed with the Phillies before the 2019 season.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Stanly sends 4 basketball teams to state playoffs

Actor, writer and director Ben Affleck addresses the media regarding his new movie “Air” during NBA All-Star weekend in Salt Lake City.

Both Albemarle squads were included in the NCHSAA tournaments

With ‘Air,’ Affleck tells lesser-known Jordan story The Associated Press SALT LAKE CITY — Ben Affleck was 12 years old in 1984 and growing up in the Boston area.

The Celtics were NBA champions.

The Red Sox and Patriots were respectable. The Bruins got swept in the first round of the playoffs.

And that also was when Nike was betting much of its future on Michael Jordan.

Part of that tale will be told in the upcoming film “Air,” which Affleck directed and stars in alongside Matt Damon, Viola Davis, Jason Bateman and more.

Affleck plays Nike co-founder Phil Knight, and Damon plays then-Nike executive Sonny Vaccaro — who was tasked with finding a way of saving what was then the company’s fledgling basketball division.

Affleck did it with one key character absent: Jordan is not

12

By Jesse Deal Stanly County Journal

ROB GRAY | AP PHOTO

The film tells the story of the NBA superstar and Nike’s union

5

shown in the movie.

“What I wanted to try to accomplish was to have Michael Jordan have the effect in the story that he has in the world, which is that obviously the vast majority of people don’t know and have never met Michael Jordan — and yet they know about him, and they know what he means and they might talk about him,” Affleck said. “So, in a way, he’s like a presence that’s felt and discussed and everybody else around him is there. But you never see his face.”

Nike wound up signing Jordan — who had yet to play an NBA game — to a $2.5 million, fiveyear deal.

It was a huge gamble.

Spoiler alert, with apologies to the movie that gets released April 5: It worked out.

Jordan Brand generated $4.7 billion in revenue in 2021, the Jumpman logo is iconic, Nike has become one of the world’s most powerful and recognizable companies, and Jordan won six NBA championships, became a billionaire, and now owns the Charlotte

Hornets.

And since most viewers will already know all those things, Affleck took on the challenge of telling lesser-known parts of the story.

“The movie has to do realistic, it has to do authentic, and it has to surprise the audience,” Affleck said. “Because if what happens is something that the audience can predict, even if they like it, they go along with it, it’s ordinary, it’s boring. It’s just not what I want to do.”

The trailer, released last week, is up to 6 million views. Affleck was at All-Star weekend to help promote Friday’s celebrity game, and ads for the film were shown on the jumbo scoreboards over the court.

Affleck said he has met with Jordan about the movie.

“Somebody asked me what you’re doing from Boston and making a movie about the Chicago guy,” Affleck said in an interview with a number of media outlets. “Michael Jordan sort of transcends, I think, rivalry.”

ALBEMARLE — While the regular season and conference play have both finished up for local high school basketball teams, four Stanly County squads will continue into the postseason.

Over the weekend, the North Carolina High School Athletic Association released its finalized brackets for the 2022-23 boys’ and girls’ basketball state playoffs.

Two boys’ teams (Albemarle and West Stanly) and two girls’ teams (Albemarle and North Stanly) each received a bid to play in Tuesday’s first round of the NCHSAA championships.

Three out of those four contests, which were all after press time, were home matchups for the Stanly teams.

In the boys’ brackets, the No. 10 Bulldogs (14-12) hosted No. 23 Starmount (12-12) in the 1A Western region, while the No. 30 Colts (13-13) traveled to No. 3 West Caldwell (24-2) for a 2A Western region matchup.

In the girls’ brackets, the No. 4 Bulldogs (21-4) hosted No. 29 Mitchell (9-15) in the 1A Western region. The No. 9 Comets (20-4) hosted No. 24 Pine Lake Prep (9-15) in the 2A Western region.

Five other Stanly teams — for the boys, North Stanly (13-12), South Stanly (7-17), Gray Stone boys (0-21), and for the girls, West Stanly (8-17) and Gray Stone girls (4-18) — did not receive playoff bids.

Looking ahead, the second round of NCHSAA playoff action is set for Thursday night, followed by a third round on Saturday and a fourth round next Tuesday; regionals are set for March 4 and the state championships will be played on March 11.

Out of the four local squads to make the playoffs, only one of them is coming off a conference championship victory.

The Albemarle girls defeated North Stanly in Friday’s Yadkin Valley Conference tournament title game, adding to a 12-game win streak that has continued since Jan 6. Led by sophomore point guard Amari Baldwin, the Bulldogs posted a 64-58 win, beating the Comets for the third time since Dec. 27.

The Albemarle boys’ team is coming off a 6638 overtime loss to Mount Pleasant (16-10) in the semifinals of their YVC tournament. The Bulldogs had previously defeated South Stanly in the opening round. Robinson (20-6) later took the YVC tournament title with a win over the Tigers and was rewarded with a No. 7 seed in the 2A Western Region.

In the Rocky River Conference tournaments, the West Stanly boys defeated Central Academy (7-17) before falling to eventual winner Monroe (12-9).

The West Stanly girls also lost to Monroe (17-7) before Parkwood (20-5) went on to win the conference championship.

Length, in games, of the Albemarle girls’ basketball team’s winning streak heading into the NCHSAA playoffs

Russian athletes stand on the podium during the medals ceremony for the men’s 50-kilometer cross-country race at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

AP PHOTO

Nations: No clarity on neutrality, no Olympics for Russia The United States joined 34 nations in a statement about eligibility for athletes from the combative nation The Associated Press THE GOVERNMENTS of 35 nations released a statement Monday calling on the IOC to clarify the definition of “neutrality” as it seeks a way to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes back into international sports and, ultimately, next year’s Paris Olympics.

“As long as these fundamental issues and the substantial lack of clarity and concrete detail on a workable ‘neutrality’ model are

not addressed, we do not agree that Russian and Belarusian athletes should be allowed back into competition,” read the statement.

Among those signing the statement were officials from the United States, Britain, France, Canada and Germany. Those five countries brought nearly one-fifth of all athletes to the Tokyo Games in 2021.

Other countries that had suggested an Olympic boycott was possible if the war continues — such as Poland, Latvia, Lithuania and Denmark — also signed onto the statement, which did not go so far as to mention a boycott.

The statement was the product of a Feb. 10 summit in London between government leaders, who heard from Ukrainian President

Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy said Russia athletes had no place at the Paris Games as long as the country’s invasion of Ukraine continues.

The International Olympic Committee is trying to find a way to allow Russians into the Olympics, citing the opinion of United Nations human rights experts who believe Russians and Belarusians should not face discrimination simply for the passports they hold. The IOC wants competitors from those countries who have not supported the war to be able to compete as neutral athletes, with no symbols of their countries allowed.

Assistant Secretary of State Lee Satterfield signed the statement

on behalf of the United States. In a separate statement, she emphasized the need for the IOC to provide clarity on the definition of neutrality.

“The United States will continue to join a vast community of nations to hold Russia and Belarus — and the bad actors who dictate their actions — accountable for this brutal war,” Satterfield said. “Russia has proven, time and again, it has no regard for and is incapable of following the rules — in international sport and in international law.”

While acknowledging there was an argument for them to compete as neutral athletes, the government officials noted in the joint statement how closely sports and

politics are intertwined in Russia and Belarus. Russia invaded Ukraine a year ago Friday and Belarus has been Russia’s closest ally.

When the war started, the IOC recommended sports organizations bar Russians from competitions, labeling it as a measure for those athletes’ safety. That stance changed at the start of this year.

Last week, IOC president Thomas Bach said the IOC stood in solidarity with Ukraine’s athletes, but also that sports has to respect the human rights of all athletes.

“History will show who is doing more for peace. The ones who try to keep lines open, to communicate, or the ones who want to isolate or divide,” Bach said.

Monday’s statement, while calling for clarity from the IOC, said the quickest way for Russia to get back into the international sports scene would be “by ending the war they started.”

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Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Democratic governor signs GOP-backed tax cut in Kentucky The Associated Press FRANKFORT, Ky. — Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear on Friday signed a Republican-backed tax cut bill, saying he hopes it provides relief for Kentuckians struggling with consumer prices amid stubbornly high inflation.

Beshear’s action on the measure — which will lower the state’s individual income tax rate — comes after the proposal drew Democratic opposition as it moved through the GOP-dominated legislature.

The governor, who is facing a tough reelection campaign this year in Republican-trending Kentucky, announced in a social media video that he was signing the tax cut measure.

“I hope as we get through this period where, again, groceries cost too much, that this helps everybody out there at least a little bit,” Beshear said.

The governor’s action ended days of suspense over whether he would sign or veto the measure.

A top Senate Republican openly dared the governor to veto the bill as the Senate debated the bill.

Responding to the governor’s bill-signing decision Friday, the state GOP accused Beshear of trying to take credit for Republican-backed policies.

“He has spent countless hours attacking Republicans for this policy approach and left the members of his own party out to dry on it,” the state Republican Party said in a statement. “What’s different between last year and this

AP PHOTO, FILE

The Kentucky state Capitol in Frankfort, Ky., is pictured on April 7, 2021. one? There’s an election this November.”

For Republican lawmakers, the newly signed bill is another step toward achieving a long-running policy goal to phase out individual income taxes in Kentucky.

The measure signed by Beshear will lower the state’s individual income tax rate by a half-percentage point to 4%, effective Jan. 1, 2024. It follows up on last year’s

tax overhaul, which resulted in a reduction of the tax rate from 5% to 4.5% at the start of this year.

Beshear vetoed last year’s bill revamping portions of the state tax code. He objected to provisions that extended the sales tax to many more services. Republican lawmakers easily overrode his veto. As an alternative, the governor last year backed 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.

Beshear on Friday acknowledged that the deeper income tax cut could have potential “longterm repercussions” for funding state services. But he pointed to the state’s strong economy, which has fueled record-setting revenue collections, as justification for

signing the follow-up tax cut.

In January, state General Fund receipts rose 6.2% compared with the same month a year ago, state Budget Director John Hicks reported recently. General Fund collections have grown 5.8% for the first seven months of the current fiscal year, he said. The General Fund pays for most state services, including education, health care and public safety. Kentucky has set records for private-sector investments and job creation during Beshear’s tenure as governor.

Amid the economic growth, the Democratic governor has acknowledged the hardships that inflation has caused for Kentuckians. He continued that message in his bill-signing announcement Friday.

“Things are tough out there,” Beshear said. “Inflation is real.

And while gas prices have come down, a grocery store bill is still way too high. And while this issue is temporary, it’s still going to last for some time into the foreseeable future, and our people need relief.”

Democratic lawmakers opposing the tax-cut measure said many Kentuckians won’t reap savings from the reduction. And they noted that last year’s legislation extended the state sales tax to more services, which they said created new tax burdens.

Beshear’s decision to sign the top GOP legislative priority comes as a dozen Republican candidates compete for their party’s nomination for governor in the May primary.

Beshear’s bid for a second term is drawing national attention to see if the popular incumbent can win again in the red state.

Beshear has won praise for his responses to devastating tornadoes and flooding, as well as a string of economic development and infrastructure successes.

GOP opens another investigation of Afghanistan withdrawal The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Several Biden Cabinet members, including the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, received a letter Friday from House Republicans as they launched the second investigation into the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., the chairman of the House Oversight Committee, sent a series of letters to senior leadership at the White House, Department of Defense, State Department and others requesting a tranche of documents related to the end of America’s longest war.

“The Biden Administration was tragically unprepared for the Afghanistan withdrawal and their decisions in the region directly resulted in a national security and humanitarian catastrophe,” Comer said in a statement. “Every relevant department and agency should be prepared to cooperate and provide all requested information.”

Republicans have been vowing to press President Joe Biden’s administration on what went wrong as the Taliban swept to power in Afghanistan in August 2021 and the U.S. left scores of Americans and thousands of Afghans who helped them over the years in grave danger. Now with the power of the gavel, GOP lawmakers are elevating that criticism into aggressive congressional oversight, and on a topic that has been met with bipartisan support in the past.

In a statement, the State Department said that while it does not comment on congressional correspondence, the agency is commit-

AP PHOTO

House Oversight Chairman Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., opens a House Committee on Oversight and Accountability hearing on the border, Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023, in Washington, D.C. ted to working with congressional committees.

“As of November 2022, the Department has provided more than 150 briefings to bipartisan Members and staff on Afghanistan policy since the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Afghanistan,” the statement continued. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The letters Friday come nearly one month after Rep. Mike McCaul, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, opened his own investigation into the deadly withdrawal, requesting documents from Secretary of State Ant-

ony Blinken.

McCaul’s letter outlined a request for all communications around the lead-up to pulling U.S. troops out of Afghanistan. He also made it clear that his committee, which has jurisdiction over the matter, also plans to investigate the after-effects of the withdrawal, including on the hundreds of thousands of Afghan allies left behind.

The Trump administration agreed late in its term to withdraw U.S. forces from Afghanistan in May 2021, with the former president saying in 2020, “Now it’s time for somebody else to do that work.”

But Republicans are intent on re-

minding Americans that it was Biden who was in charge when the Taliban took over.

And the criticism over the issue began in a bipartisan manner, with several Democrat-led committees pledging to investigate what went wrong in the days and weeks after the withdrawal.

U.S. officials have said they were surprised by the quick collapse of the military and the government, prompting sharp congressional criticism of the intelligence community for failing to foresee it.

In a congressional hearing last spring, senators questioned whether there is a need to reform how in-

telligence agencies assess a foreign military’s will to fight. Lawmakers pointed to two key examples: U.S. intelligence believed that the Kabul government would hold on for months against the Taliban, and more recently believed that Ukraine’s forces would quickly fall to Russia’s invasion. Both were wrong.

Military and defense leaders have said the Afghanistan collapse was built on years of missteps, as the U.S. struggled to find a successful way to train and equip Afghan forces.

Last year, a watchdog group concluded it was decisions by Trump and Biden to pull all U.S. troops out of Afghanistan that were key factors in the collapse of that nation’s military.

The report by the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, or SIGAR, mirrors assertions made by senior Pentagon and military leaders in the aftermath of the withdrawal. Military leaders have made it clear that their recommendation was to leave about 2,500 U.S. troops in the country, but that plan was not approved.

In February 2020, the Trump administration signed an agreement with the Taliban in Doha, Qatar, in which the U.S. promised to fully withdraw its troops by May 2021. The Taliban committed to several conditions, including stopping attacks on American and coalition forces. The stated objective was to promote a peace negotiation between the Taliban and the Afghan government, but that diplomatic effort never gained traction before Biden took office in January 2022.

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, January 18, 2023

7

obituaries obituaries Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Barbara Jean (Taylor) Drye Litaker April 17,Janice 1936 ~ January 14, 2023 Blalock Barbara Jean Taylor Drye, 86,

Dwight Farmer

January 24, 1939 ~ January 15, 2023

Shirley Smith Dwight Britten Farmer Sr., 83, Davis

James Roseboro

June 23, 1967 ~ January 10, 2023

Don Wayne Mesimer

James Arthur Roseboro, 55, of Albemarle, passed away Tuesday, of Norwood died Sunday morning, January 10, 2023 at Anson Health Octoberpassed 23, 1952 - February July 14, 19, 2023 and October of Oakboro, away Saturday, 20, January 15,1949 2023-atFebruary Forrest Oakes.

Rehab.23, 1942 - February 17, January 14, 2023 at2023 her home.

Dwight was born January 24, Mr. Roseboro2023 was born on Shirley Louise Smith Davis, Barbara was born April 17, 1936 1939 in Stanly County to the late June 23, 1967 to the late Robert Janice Litaker Blalock, 70, 73, ofVirgil Albemarle, NC went to her Wayne Mesimer, 80, in North Carolina to the late Robert Walter and Martha Adkins andDon Delena Shipp Roseboro.

Heof Albemarle, passed heavenly home Sunday, February Albemarle passed away on Lee of Taylor and the late Evaaway Belle Farmer. He was a 1957 graduate graduated from South Stanly Friday, Saturday, 2023, in Bethany Woods February 17,and 2023 his homeby Watts Taylor. February 18, 2023, at of 19, Norwood High School and was High School wasatemployed herwas son’s home.

Nursing Center.. surrounded by family.

She also preceded in death a United States Army Veteran.

Triangle Brick. He enjoyed watching Mrs. of Blalock was bornFurr October Shirley (Dimple) was born July Don was born October 23, by husband 61 years, Keith He was a member of Cedar Grove football and basketball, especially the 23, 1952 in Stanly County, 14, 1949 in North Carolina to the 1942 in Cabarrus County to the Drye, and brothers, Robert Lee NC to United Methodist Church where he Carolina TarHeels and Miami. theJr. late Robert William Litaker late Vaughn Manson Smith and late Sid Ashby Mesimer and Mary Taylor, and George Kenneth had served as church treasurer and In addition to his parents he isHis and Ruby Whitley Litaker. She Faye Novella Petrea Smith. She Magnolia Barringer Mesimer.

Taylor. choir member.

He began his career preceded in deathothers by his brothers enjoyed cooking, flowers and was also preceded in death by life was helping through Survivors include children, with the Stanly County Sheriff’ s and Barbara Lee Roseboro, gardening. sisters, Elizabeth “Vicki” Grissom his sisters: processing at Don’s Private Debbie (Mike) Williams of Department moving to the Norwood Dorothy Brown, Verna Roseboro, Janice was preceded in death and Dale Beachum.

Deer Club.

He always welcomed Albemarle, Teresa (Tom) Curry PoliceSurvivors Department and retiring as Henrietta Ingram, Harold by her husband, Eddie Blalock. include husband, others with open and arms and never of Oakboro, Douglas (Tammy) Chief of Police with the Town of Roseboro.

She is survived by a son, Brian Michael H. Davis of Albemarle, turned anyone away. His greatest Drye of Oakboro; grandchildren, after many of service. survived bylove his sisters: Blalock (Laura) of Millingport; Norwood NC; children, Jan years Almond (Kim) joyHe inislife was the he had for Melissa (Don) Parrish of Albemarle, Dwight was an avid gardener, Helen (James) grandchildren, Roseboro Edwards two grandchildren, Justin of Charlotte, NC, Trent Taylor his children, and Samantha (Destiny) Smith of watcher Carolina fan. ofgreat Albemarle, Mary Roseboro Blalock (Jennifer) of Millingport bird (Vicky) of and Aquadale, NC, Chad grandchildren.

Oakboro, Bradley Smithof ofNorwood; Oakboro, He is survived wife Hilda of Washington DC, Marion and Derek Blalock Taylor (Jordan)byofhis Richfield, NC Mr. Mesimer isand survived Jonathan Stover of Peachland, Farmer;Davis one son D. Britten Morrison of Albemarle; two great-grandchildren,and Lucas Whitley and Brandon (Hailey) of

by Lisa Ann Mesimer brothers: Tucker Jessie Stover of Lylesville; sister-Larry Farmer Jr. (Mary) McLeansville, Thomas of Charlotte, and Lillian and a brother, Albemarle, NC;ofstep-children, (Bobby)D. ofRoseboro Albemarle, Danny in-law, Beatrice Goodman; NC; one Chandler daughter Sharon of of Litaker (Linda).

She ismany also Sheri (David)Farmer of Chapel Robert WayneRoseboro Mesimer(Patricia) (Melinda) nieces and nephews; and beloved Lowe of Norwood; one Norwood, VanLynn Horne; a special preceded in death byher a brother, Hill,(David) NC; granddaughters, Richfield,and Kathy Mesimer cats,Wayne Bo andLitaker.

Garfield. sister Geraldine Dennis of Kristen Troy; two friend over 40Heil) years,of Michelle Emerson Almond and fiancéof(Robert Albemarle; Barbara was a member of Davis; grandson, Spencer grandchildren: Tucker grandchildren, Dwight Britten “Dee” McLendon of the Kyle home; specialof Oakboro Baptist Church for over Almond; step-granddaughter, Albemarle, Jamie Goodman Farmer III and Whitley Rose Hui nieces: Nybrea Montague, Knyaand 60 years. She worked over 30 years Shelby Martin (Trey); sisters, fiancéand (Jerry Wallace) of Oakboro; Lowe.

Little, Laquanza Crump; special at Stanly Knitting Mills. After just Patsy Taylor, Nancy Little,byBrenda nephews: Brandi Kroener (Jeffrey) of He was preceded in death Robert Jr., Desmond two years of retirement, she began Lynda Smith and Marilyn WA; Derek Mesimer (Raya) of hisHill, son Alex, brothers, Tommy and Roseboro, and Marcus Lilly; and managing the Oakboro Senior Lankford (John); Albemarle, Angel Mesimer of St. Jimmy, sisters, Nancy,brother, CorneliaTommy God daughter, Daphne Johnson; and Center and did that for 18 years Smith (Tracy); Kitts, friends, Ethan Wyatt ofJohnson Albemarle; Annabell, Glenniesister-in-law, Mae, and Betty. special Vetrella and until this past week. Barbara was Gwen Shaver (George); 9 great grandchildren; sisters: Memorials may be madebrotherto Cedar Ben McLendon. known for her good cooking and in-law, Tommy Davis (Jan) and Julia Plott of Concord, and Jean Grove United Methodist Church, many nieces andFund nephews.

Dale of Morganton; several nieces always taking care of others. She also Cemetery or Choir c/o Pam manySprings years and nephews. Don was preceded loved going on day long shopping SmithShirley 36071worked Rocky River with her husband Michael at Hal’s in death by his brother: Jimmy trips - she could out walk and out Road, Norwood, NC 28128.

Restaurant, Albemarle, NC. She Mesimer; and sisters: Frances shop people half her age. She kept enjoyed traveling (taking several Morris, Faye Till, and Katherine her mind and body active through cruises, driving cross county to Lowder. gardening, word searches, and California, flying to New York) various other hobbies. and spending time with her family.

Phillip Monroe Thompson

July 29, 1937 ~ February 18, 2023 Phillip (Phil) Monroe Thompson, age 85, of Pee Dee, NC passed away peacefully on February 18th, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Montgomery County, NC on July 29, 1937 the oldest son of ten children born to Lacy and Ruth Thompson.

He was married to the late Betty Lou Thompson for 33 years before her passing. Together they raised Betty’s two sons Michael and Leonard Britt along with their daughter, Donna Ruth (Thompson) Cranford, in their beloved country home in Pee Dee. He was a devoted husband, loving father and caring brother to his nine siblings.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents Lacy and Ruth Thompson, his beloved wife Betty Lou Thompson, stepson Leonard Britt, brother Brad Thompson and sister Argene (Bill) McKeithan.

Phil is survived by his stepson Michael (Debbie) Britt, daughter Donna (Lloyd) Cranford; daughterin-law Lisa Britt; grandchildren, Christopher Cranford, Lauren Britt and Landis Britt; stepgrandchildren David Hall, Sarah Saheim and Phillip Cranford; eight great-grandchildren and stepgrandchildren and seven siblings; Lorena (Dempsey) Surratt, Sam Thompson, Marie (Jim) Bowles Rebecca (Scott) Dunn, Alice (Phillip) Richardson, Jason (Reba) Thompson, and Brenda (Larry) Marley; and long-time companion Brenda McIntyre.

Darrick Baldwin 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 28, 1933 ~ February 16, theMarch son of Eddie James Baldwin Sr. 2023 and the late Phyllis Blue Baldwin.

Darrick enjoyed life, always kept Ruth Owens Biggers, 89 of things lively and enjoyed making Albemarle passed away Thursday, August 21, 1938 - February 16, others smile.

His presence is no February 16, 2023 at Trinity 2023 longer in our midst, but his memory Place. will Ruth foreverwas liveborn in our hearts.28,1933 March Pearlie Morgan Carver, 84, was educated in the Stanly inHe Randolph County, NC. She was of Albemarle, passed away County public schools and attended the daughter of the late Astor Lee Thursday, February 16, 2023.

Albemarle Senior High School, Owens and Pearlie Morris Owens.

Mrs. Carver was born August Albemarle.

She was known for living life to 21, 1938 in Stanly County, NC Hefullest was a great conversationalist the and had many special to the late Henry Morgan and and loved meeting Darrick friends!

She waspeople. a member of Fannie Morgan Troutman. She never met a stranger and always White Crest Baptist Church in Mt was a member of First Baptist showed Gilead.love and compassion for his Church of New London. Pearlie fellowman.

He also loved his dog, She is survived by her enjoyed gardening and loved Rocky. daughters, Mae Allen of keeping her great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his father, Albemarle, Cathy Hartsell Pearlie is survived by two sons, of Leland, sons Sr.; David Burris Eddie J. Baldwin sisters: Crystal Jeff Carver (Robin) of Locust and of Albemarle and Henry (Eric) Jackson, LaFondra (Stoney) Jimmy Carver (Kelly) of Richfield; Burris and of Concord.

She has Medley, Morgan Baldwin; daughter, Tammy Davis of six grandchildren, fourJr., greatbrothers: Eddie Baldwin Anton Albemarle; sister Betty Morton grandchildren and five great-a Baldwin, and Lamont Baldwin; of Rockwell; four grandchildren, great-grandchildren. host of other relatives and friends. A Shelly Clark, Kadie Garner She preceded deathtree. by limb haswas fallen from ourinfamily (Dylan), Brandi Williams (Rus) her husbands, Lee Burris and and Tracy Carver and four great- We will not grieve Darrick’s death; Harvey Biggers, we will celebrate hisand life.children; We give grandchildren, Mya, Marshall, Marlene andforTed Burris. thanksgiving the many shared Evan and Emma. memories.

Ruth Biggers

Pearlie Morgan Carver

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in SCJ at obits@stanlyjournal.com

John B. Kluttz

March 23, 1935 - January 9, 2023

Bobbie Nowling John grew up in the Millingport Williams

7

Doris Jones Coleman Lloyd Moses OctoberFrank 11, 1944 - January 10, 2023 12, 2023 June 1, 1938 ~ February

community where he drove a school July 29, 1956 - February 14, 2023 DorisFrank ElaineMoses, Jones Coleman, Lloyd age 84, 78, bus and worked at the local gas went home into God’ s presence on station during his High School years. died Sunday, February 12, 2023, Bobbie Lynn Nowling January 10 after a sudden illness and at his residence in Albemarle, He graduated from Millingport Williams, 66, of Albemarle, a valiant week-long fight in ICU. North Carolina.

He was born High inaway 1954Tuesday, and entered into passed February wasin born on October 11, JuneDoris 1, 1938, Cabarrus County, service with the US Airforce 14, 2023 at Atrium Health 1944, in the mountains of Marion, North Carolina; and was the son immediately afterward. Upon Cabarrus. her father was awaySr., ofNC thewhile late Reverend Clyburn return fromborn the service, and in his She was July 29,he1956 fighting in the US Navy during and Rosie Lee Miller Moses. high school sweetheart Julie were Stanly County, NC to the Linda World War II. Raymond was His parents; brothers: Jones James, married in 1956.

He graduated from Sue Morton Nowling.

Her favorite Sammie Lee, and Lester Moses; so proud to return after the war and Nashville College thing to doAuto wasDiesel to be with herlater in sisters: Mary Moses, Jessie Mae meet his little girl!

Doris grew up in 1959 and beganwatching his careerthem as a diesel grandchildren Scott, and Rosetta Clyburn; and Durham, NC and graduated from mechanic at Mitchell Distributing play football.

She enjoyed working former spouse, M. Moses Durham High Johnsie School. She furthered Company, moving his growing with her plants and spending preceded him in death. her studies at Watts Hospital family to Charlotte time with family. where they lived Lloydof will be remembered School Nursing in Durhamand and until theirwas retirement.

Bobbie preceded in loved eternally by his children: graduated as a Registered Nurse in When John purchased his first death by her husband, Timothy James F. Moses, Mary E. Moses, 1966.

Model A Ford at the age Williams on October 12,of 17, he Timothy Wilson, Sonja DorisB. married Rev. Dr. Ted said that the car the 2021.

Shehe is took survived byto three (Dennis) Davis, James “Rod” Coleman in 1966 and had two daughters, ofhad Brooks, Douglas E. Fleming, communityAmanda mechanicTalbert when he daughters Amy and Laura.

Doris Albemarle, NC, Robin Rodriguez a small problem.The mechanic told Lloyd D. (Jackie) Moses, Kendra raised Amy and Laura in North (Rafael) Kannapolis, NC him thatof if he was going to keep the (Robert) Pruitt, Tomeika (John) Augusta, SC. and (Sejo) car, Brittany he neededWilliams to learn to workof on Sellers, Resa Felisia Doris wasR. anHarris, incredible neonatal Charlotte, NC; John’ a brother, Mike it. This is when s passion for M. Wilson, Frank M. Fleming, intensive care nurse for most of her Hurlocker (Teresa) of Oakboro, Model A Fords began and how he Terrence O. Drye, and Octavis D. career, and this was her passion.

NC and eleven grandchildren, spent his happiest days with his best Crump; a host of grandchildren, The Augusta Chronicle did a feature Steven Christopher friendsHatley, from around the globe for the great grandchildren and three on her in 1985. She was a clinical Little, Adrian Little, Harlon rest of his life! great great-grandchildren; nurse manager in L. Augusta, Hatley, Hunter Hunter, Evea At age 50, after years as a Detroit brothers: Clyburn Moses,Georgia L.C. at University Hospital NICU Rodriguez, Nyomi (Deborah) Moses, David Lee and Diesel Mechanic heRodriguez, and Julie workedHerman there for 20 During Nataila Elliana Moses, Leeyears.

Moses, and decidedRodriguez, to take the plunge and this time, Doris mentored young Salihovic, Avyana Salihovic and Eddie Lee Moses; special friends: open a full Model A Restoration nurses and assisted inPonds, saving the Jose Rodriguez.

Bobbie was Della Crump, Davara and Shop.

They thrived at their shop in lives of so many babies.

She also also preceded in death by a son, Cornelius, NC until their retirement Kevin Davis; a host of nieces, Winfred Steven Hatley. worked for Pediatrician William nephews, other relatives,Dr. and in 1998 when they moved back to A. Wilkes in Augusta for several friends.

Cabarrus County. John once again years prior to her NICU career. Doris set up shop in his back yard garage retired from the mother/baby area at where he attracted a loyal group of Atrium Stanly in 2007 after over 40 friends who visited almost daily. years of nursing.

While on the farm in Gold Hill, Doris was a gentle and sweet John also began a lifelong love with spirit and loved her Lord. She never Alis Chalmers tractors after he met a stranger, and she always left restored his Dad’s tractor and began you feeling uplifted after talking amassing his collection of tractors with her. She would often claim that as well. she had “adopted” friends into her John restored many cars of immediate family, and honestly, she his own and had the crowning never made a distinction between achievement of winning the most the two. Positivity radiated from her prestigious award from MARC, The Henry for a restoration that garnered like sunlight. She was selfless, funny, smart, and sentimental. During her top points. He was also presented lifetime she was an active member with the Ken Brady Service Award of First Baptist Church of Durham, the highest award given to members First Baptist Church of Augusta, at the national level.

Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church This is what John’s Model A in Augusta, and Palestine United Community to say upon July 31, 1952had ~ February 11, 2023 Methodist Church in Albemarle. learning of his death: She especially loved helping at Ethel Marie Horton Lockhart He was an active member of church adults, youth, and June 12, with 1924older - February 16, 2023 departed this life Saturday, Wesley Chapel Methodist Church children.

February 11, 2023.

Ethel, the on where he loved serving as greeter Juanita Collingwood, She wasHarris especially talented fourth born to Lee Sundaychild mornings.

HeWillie also belonged 98, of Mount Gilead, NC, passed at sewing from a young age and Sr., and Anna Thomas Horton to the United Methodist Men. away Thursday, February 16, made gifts for friends, Christmas wasJohn born July 31, 1952, in Mount is survived by his wife 2023. ornaments, Halloween Costumes, Gilead, North Carolina.

Julie Ussery Kluttz, for 66Ethel years Mrs. Collingwood was born doll clothes, pageant dresses, prom will be remembered for her of the home. He is also survived June 12, 1924 in Stanly County, dresses, coats, tote bags, scarves, kindness and sweet spirit. by a son John David Kluttz (Kim) NC to the Harris and outfits forlate AmyDaniel and Laura, and She attended the Stanly of Oakboro, NC; two daughters, Mittie Peelergowns Harris.

Christening for each of her County public schools and Sally Simerson of Denver, CO and Juanita is survived by a grandchildren. graduated in the class of Betsy Tusa (John) of Lafayette, CO; Robin Collingwood Doris was preceded in death by 1970 Albemarle SeniorKluttz daughter: three from grandchildren, Bonnie Burleson (Steve); son: HarryJones, her father Arthur Raymond High School.

She furthered Sammons (Ben) of Richfield, NC Dale Collingwood (Kathy Cooke); her education at Cabarrus her mother Mary Ellen Cameron John Alexander McKinnon (Sarah) grandchildren: Eric Burleson Community College, Kannapolis, Jones, and her sister Maryanne of Asheville, NC and Seth William (Michelle), Kristin Colvin North Carolina where Jones Brantley.

McKinnon (Amanda) of Germany; (Curtis), Blair Hesley (Boomer), she received her Licensed Survivors include her two five great-grandchildren, Charlotte, Kimberly Allen (Tommy), Dale Practical Nursing Degree. precious daughters: Amy Cameron Meredith, Victoria Jordan Collingwood (Tabitha); Ethel was Grant, employed withand Coleman (partner Dr. Edward Neal Ronan.

John is also preceded in great grandchildren: Julia Charlotte Memorial Hospital Chernault) of Albemarle, NC, and Isabella Burleson, death by his parents, J.S. Kluttz and Hawthorne Nursing and and Burleson, Laura Lindahl Coleman Oliverio Hailey Colvin, Kimber Colvin, Mary Wyatt Clayton Kluttz; a large Rehabilitation Center where she (husband David) of Cincinnati, Ohio; Emma Hesley, Jack Hesley, and loving group of brothers and was nursing supervisor. seven grandchildren: Cameron Harlow Allen, Clark Allen; sisters, Methias Annie Left Jack to honor her Kluttz, memory are David Oliverio, Stephanie Jae Dejak, several nieces and nephews.

Lou Kluttz Honeycutt, Jake Nelson her four brothers: Robert Joe Luca Beatty Oliverio, Coleman John She was preceded in death Kluttz, Julius Patricia Horton, who Kluttz, was herMary caregiver, Dejak, Carson JosephHarry Oliverio, Ryan by her late husband, Earl Phillips and a grandson, Kevin Willie Horton Jr., John Wayne Nicholas Dejak, and Jadon Richard Collingwood, Jr. and her first Fowler Kluttz.

Horton, and Stopper Ray Oliverio;Paul and numerous in-laws, husband David Shaver; Horton; two sisters: Pastor nieces,Jewel nephews, cousins, and loved sisters: Elliott, Christine Nancy Holland and Mary Lee ones. brother: Melvin Harris.

Lynch; Pemberton ; a host of nieces and nephews.

Ethel Lockhart

Juanita Harris Collingwood

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

8

STATE & NATION

Congressional Budget Office projects higher unemployment, slow exit from inflation The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Congressional Budget Office said it expects the U.S. economy to stagnate this year with the unemployment rate jumping to 5.1% — a bleak outlook that was paired with a 10-year projection that publicly held U.S. debt would nearly double to $46.4 trillion in 2033.

The office’s updated 10-year Budget and Economic Outlook outlined stark expectations for the decade ahead, where Social Security would be unable to pay full benefits to recipients in 2032 — with a roughly 20 % reduction in benefits across the board — and the net interest costs on U.S. debt would eclipse what the nation spends on defense.

“The debt trajectory is unsustainable,” CBO director Phillip Swagel told journalists at a press conference after the report’s afternoon release. The CBO can’t tell Congress what to do, he said, “but at some point, something has to give — whether it’s on spending or revenue.”

The latest figures seemed to affirm the worst fears of many U.S. consumers and businesses. But in a reminder that the U.S. economy has seldom behaved as anticipated through the pandemic and its aftermath, the employment forecast looks very different from the pace of hiring so far this year.

The CBO estimated that just 108,000 jobs will be added in 2023, but employers added 517,000 jobs in January alone.

It also assumes that inflation will

AP PHOTO

An employee restocks meats at a grocery store on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023, in North Miami, Fla. ease from 6.4% to 4.8% this year, far more pessimistic than Federal Reserve officials who in December said inflation would fall to 3.5%.

The CBO separately pointed to the risks of not increasing the government’s legal borrowing authority, noting that the Treasury Department could exhaust its current “extraordinary measures” to keep the government running while President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy jostle over a deal.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen wrote to congressional leadership

last month, stating that her agency will use creative accounting measures to buy time until Congress can pass legislation that will either raise the nation’s $31.4 trillion borrowing authority or suspend it again for a period of time.

If tax receipts from this year’s filing season fall short of estimated amounts, the U.S. could hit its statutory debt ceiling earlier than July, according to the nonpartisan organization, which provides independent analyses of budget and economic issues to Congress.

Following the CBO issuing its

report, Senate Democrats reiterated their calls for Republicans to help pass legislation to increase the nation’s borrowing authority.

Then, they said, lawmakers could turn their attention to funding the government and addressing the solvency of Medicare and Social Security.

“We don’t want to cut benefits. We don’t want to privatize.

We don’t want to do the kinds of things that Republicans have talked about in that area,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said of Social Security.

“And we have some plans to make it solvent, which you’ll hear from down the road.”

Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee, said the report “paints a dire picture.”

“If we don’t get serious about reining in spending, reducing annual budget deficits and bringing down the debt, the country will end up spending more on interest payments than the programs that actually benefit Americans,” Grassley said.

The outlook warns about rising yearly budget deficits. In 2033, the CBO anticipates that the yearly shortfall in tax revenues relative to spending would exceed $2.85 trillion, more than double the deficit in 2022. Publicly held debt was roughly equal to U.S. gross domestic product in 2022, but it would climb to 118% of GDP by 2033.

The office says the biggest drivers of rising debt in relation to GDP are increasing interest costs and spending for Medicare and Social Security.

“Biden’s numerous bailouts and massive government expansion disguised as COVID relief has blown out spending and exacerbated our debt disaster,” said Rep. Jodey Arrington, the Republican chairman of the House Budget Committee. “House Republicans must rein-in the unbridled spending and restore fiscal sanity in Washington before it’s too late.”

One reason why the CBO expects a slowdown this year are the actions taken by the Fed. The U.S. central bank has been trying to reduce inflation by raising its benchmark interest rates. Earlier this month the Fed raised its key interest rate a quarter-point, its eighth hike since March of last year.

The CBO expects growth to pick up once the Fed has tamed inflation and pulls back on its benchmark rates.

Republicans to adopt loyalty pledge for debate participants

By Steve Peoples The Associated Press NEW YORK — Republican presidential candidates will be blocked from the debate stage this summer if they do not sign a pledge to support the GOP’s ultimate presidential nominee, according to draft language set to be adopted when the Republican National Committee meets next week.

The proposal sets up a potential clash with former President Donald Trump, who has raised the possibility of leaving the Republican Party and launching an independent candidacy if he does not win the GOP nomination outright. While RNC officials and Trump aides downplay that possibility, such a move could destroy the GOP’s White House aspirations in 2024 and raise existential questions about the party’s future.

“After the primary, it is imperative to the health and growth of our Republican Party, as well as the country, that we all come together and unite behind our nominee to defeat Joe Biden and the Democrats,” RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel said in a statement to The Associated Press when asked about the loyalty pledge.

As many as a dozen Republicans are expected to enter the 2024 presidential contest as the GOP braces for an all-out civil war in the months ahead.

Much of the party is eager to

AP PHOTO

The Republican National Committee logo is shown on the stage as crew members work at the North Charleston Coliseum, Jan. 13, 2016, in North Charleston, S.C., in advance of Fox Business Network Republican presidential debate. move past Trump and his divisive politics, but in reality, Republican leaders have few, if any, tools to control the former president given his popularity with the GOP’s most passionate voters. RNC leaders are hopeful that a loyalty pledge, while ultimately unenforceable, would generate some shared commitment to unity, albeit a fragile one, as the presidential primary season takes off.

A senior Trump aide could not say whether the former president would sign the pledge to support the eventual nominee but suggested privately that he plans to participate in the debates. Campaign spokesman Ste-

ven Cheung declined to answer the question directly as well.

“President Trump is the undisputed leader of the Republican Party and will be the nominee,” Cheung said. “There is nobody who can outmatch President Trump’s energy or the enthusiasm he receives from Americans of all backgrounds.”

Facing similar concerns in 2016, Trump signed a similar loyalty pledge that was not tied to debates, but he later reneged as the primary campaign became more contentious. At the very first Republican primary debate that year, Trump was the only candidate on stage who refused to commit to support-

ing the party’s eventual nominee unless it was him.

And just last December, Trump shared an article on social media encouraging him to seek a third-party bid to punish the GOP should Republican primary voters select another presidential nominee in 2024.

Meanwhile, there is no such threat on the Democratic side.

Virtually every Democrat thought to have presidential aspirations has already promised to unite behind President Joe Biden, assuming the 78-year-old Democrat follows through on his plan to seek a second term. Biden may face token resistance from a lower-profile intra-party rival — activist and author Marianne Williamson is exploring another White House bid, for example — but the Democratic president would face little pressure to appear on the debate stage before the fall of 2024 for the general election debates, should they occur.

The Republican loyalty pledge is among several provisions likely to be adopted as the RNC’s Temporary Standing Committee on Presidential Debates meets to determine the rules governing which candidates may participate in the GOP’s upcoming debate season — and which media networks will host the events.

The committee is considering between 10 and 12 debates to begin in late July at the Reagan Library in California or at the RNC’s summer meeting in Milwaukee, the host of

the GOP’s next national convention.

Committee officials are sorting through proposals from as many as 18 media companies eager to host a debate. They include major television networks like CNN, MSNBC and Fox and lower-profile conservative favorites like Newsmax, according to people directly involved in the process who spoke on the condition of anonymity to share internal discussions.

While the likes of CNN and NBC hosted Republican primary debates in 2016, Republican officials suggest it would be a mistake to assume they will be selected this time around given widespread disdain for the networks among the party’s base. Representatives from each network will pitch the RNC in person next Wednesday and Thursday.

While there are many moving pieces, GOP leaders are most concerned about the party’s ability to come together after what promises to be a divisive primary election season.

Dave Bossie, a former Trump aide and current RNC member leading the debate committee, noted that the committee is modeling its 2024 loyalty pledge after the 2016 pledge that every Republican candidate signed.

“All Republicans can agree that Joe Biden has been a disaster for America,” Bossie said. “Therefore, it should be easy for every candidate to pledge unity toward defeating the radical Biden administration.”

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THE RANDOLPH COUNTY EDITION OF THE NORTH STATE JOURNAL

VOLUME 7 ISSUE 52 | WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2023 | RANDOLPHRECORD.COM

Randolph record Rep. Hudson visits Randolph Emergency Services in Asheboro U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson (NC-09) made a stop in Asheboro last Thursday with Congress out of session.

In a visit to Randolph County’s Emergency Services department, Hudson was able to thank first responders for their work and tour the building. He visited the 911 call center and spoke with county leaders.

A day earlier, Hudson opened his new flagship district office in Southern Pines.

“As your Congressman, I am committed to delivering results for families throughout our region and providing top-notch customer service from our offices in both Washington, D.C. and North Carolina,” said Hudson at a ribbon-cutting ceremony. “I look forward to helping more constituents navigate federal government agencies like the VA (Veteran’s Affairs) and being accessible to hear your needs, thoughts, and concerns on key issues facing our community and nation.”

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

U.S. Representative Richard Hudson speaks with local leaders during a visit to the Randolph County Emergency Center in Asheboro on Thursday.

COUNTY NEWS Artie the Elephant moved to Tennessee elephant sanctuary Artie, a 40-year-old elephant who arrived at the North Carolina Zoo from Zimbabwe at age 15, was recently relocated to The Elephant Sanctuary in Hohenwald, Tennessee, on January 31.

“Meeting Artie’s needs at this stage of his life as an older bull was a priority,” said Pat Simmons, CEO and Director of the NC Zoo. “The decision for Artie to move to The Elephant Sanctuary, given their large habitat spaces, excellent husbandry facilities, and multiple African elephant residents, provides Artie with the best opportunities for lifetime care and social well-being as he ages.” The decision to move Artie came after months of collaboration between the sanctuary in Tennessee through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).

Human remains found in Staley linked to missing person Earlier this month, human remains were found in Staley and were connected to a missing person report filed in 2021. According to the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office, the office received word that a citizen had stumbled upon the remains of Steven Tyler Tuttle while walking in a wooded area near Shady Grove Church Road. Last Tuesday, the State Medical Examiner’s Office made a positive identification between the remains and Tuttle. Tuttle, who was initially reported as missing in June 2021, was last seen in Liberty, North Carolina. At the time that the missing person’s report was filed, the sheriff’s office searched multiple locations based on the information collected from the community but was ultimately unable to locate Tuttle. The cause of death has yet to be determined, and the case is still under investigation. If you have any information pertaining to this case, please contact the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office at (336) 318-6698.

In addition to the new office, U.S. Rep. Hudson also has office locations in Washington, D.C. and Fayetteville.

Board of Education accepts grant to help supply new SROs Superintendent to request supplement increase for classified employees from commissioners

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal ASHEBORO — The Randolph County Board of Education met Monday, February 20, with mostly financial updates and dealings on the agenda.

Superintendent Stephen Gainey presented to the board a current expense request to be brought before the Randolph Board of Commissioners in May for a supplement in-

crease for classified employees.

“The new current expense request will be a supplement increase for classified employees by 1.5%,” Gainey said. “The total cost of this additional current expense request will be $430,000, and if approved, it would take our supplement percentage for classified employees from 3.75% to 5.25%.”

“Many times when the state does raises, classified employees get missed. We’ve talked about our 197 locally paid employees. Most of them are classified employees.

There are no teachers on local pay.

There’s no locally paid assistant principals or locally paid principals.

I feel very good about this additional request. We have a lot of work-

force needs in the classified employee group.”

The board was also presented with the findings from their 202122 audit.

“I’m pleased to announce that our opinion form for your financial statements is unmodified, which is the best opinion you can get, and in school finance terms, it’s an A+,” said Shannon Dennison, CPA with Anderson Smith & Wike PLLC who did Randolph County Schools audit.

According to the audit, as of June 30, 2022, Randolph County Schools had a general fund balance of $5.2 million and a capital outlay fund of $2.2 million. Dennison also touched on the district’s child nutri-

NC congressman, senator Broyhill dies at 95 The Associated Press JIM BROYHILL, a longtime North Carolina Republican congressman who served briefly in the U.S. Senate to fill a vacancy before losing a bid to keep the job, died early Saturday at age 95, his family said.

Broyhill, a scion of the Broyhill Furniture business in the North Carolina foothills that brought jobs and prestige to the region, died at Arbor Acres retirement home in Winston-Salem, according to his son, Ed. He had suffered from congestive heart failure for years that worsened in recent months, his son said Saturday.

The moderate Republican served more than 23 years in the House. He was considered a reliable conservative who helped North Carolina turn into a competitive two-party state, particularly as the GOP made national gains in the 1980s with Ronald Reagan.

In a video interview in honor of receiving a state award in 2015, Broyhill recalled the dearth of Republicans on the first state ballot he filled out in 1948.

“I was determined that I’m going to do what I could to see if we could not develop a two-party system in our state,” Broyhill said.

“And I think I had a great deal to accomplish that, but with the help and the leadership of many other people.”

GOP Gov. Jim Martin appointed Broyhill to replace Republican

PHOTO VIA AP

Rep. Jim Broyhill, R-N.C., addresses reporters at a Capitol Hill news conference, Sept. 21, 1985.

Sen. John East when East died by suicide in June 1986.

Broyhill had already won the Senate GOP primary a month earlier against David Funderburk, who had the support of Sen. Jesse Helms’ national organization that backed hardline Republicans.

East wasn’t seeking reelection due to medical issues.

The Senate appointment was viewed as an asset to help Broyhill in his fall general election against former Gov. Terry Sanford, a Democrat and outgoing Duke University president. Sanford narrowly defeated Broyhill in two elections that November -- one to serve out

the rest of 1986 and another for the next six years.

Expected initially to be a lowkey affair, the campaign took on the intensity of a modern, more divisive campaign. Reagan came to Charlotte to campaign for Broyhill. In a recent interview, Martin said he’s unsure whether appointing Broyhill to the Senate ultimately aided his campaign.

“He wasn’t able to spend as much time campaigning because he was intensely dependable on fulfilling his Senate duties,” Martin said.

Broyhill’s Capitol Hill career began with a surprising U.S. House victory in 1962.

When Democrats attempted to redraw the district of the lone Republican in the House delegation after the 1960 census in hopes of defeating him, the adjoining district became more Republican, according to a biography of Martin.

That opened the door for Broyhill, who had worked at the family business for close to two decades, to upset Democratic incumbent Hugh Quincy Alexander.

While he never served in a Republican-controlled chamber until his Senate appointment, Broyhill flexed his political muscles for Republican presidential administrations in the House and built support for their agendas with Democrats.

In the interview highlighting his 2015 award, Broyhill recalled legislation he helped pass to create the U.S. Consumer Product Safe-

tion fund.

“Last year, you gained $2.56 million in funds for child nutrition, so you have $6.9 million in cash in the child nutrition program,” Dennison said. “Last year was a little unique in that it was continuing on from COVID, so all the students received free meals, and the federal reimbursement rate was higher than a normal year, so I would not expect that to remain a trend next year.”

However, the sizable savings will allow Randolph County Schools to be able to operate without much disturbance from rising food prices, at least for a little while, according to Dennison.

“I’m just thankful it’s pretty healthy right now because it will probably take a hit,” said board chair Gary Cook. “They’ve done a good job of managing it and keeping it up. I guess planning for a rainy day was pretty smart.”

The board then approved the second reading of the school calendar See BOE, page 2

ty Commission. Broyhill’s family and others cited his efforts to create energy policies, and deregulate the telecommunications, pharmaceutical and trucking industries.

Frank Drendel, founder of coaxial cable producer CommScope based in Hickory, said on Saturday that Broyhill’s work to get a law passed in 1978 so that cable companies could connect their cables to other utility poles helped the cable industry soar.

Broyhill “set an example that sadly we don’t have much of today and that is to cross the aisle and come up with solutions that are nonpartisan,” said former Glaxo Wellcome CEO Bob Ingram, a North Carolina resident who knew Broyhill while working See BROYHILL, page 2

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WEEKLY FORECAST Randolph Record for Wednesday, February 22, 2023 WEEKLY FORECAST

Chick-fil-A’s new cauliflower sandwich Randolph comes to Asheboro location JULY 23 JULY 24 Guide JULY 21 JULY 22 JULY 25 WEDNESDAY

WEDNESDAY

JUNE 30

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is similar to that 86° and88° includes Asheboro,

By BobHI Sutton HI78° preparation HIto Mebane 86° HI HI89° 81°HI 88° HI 91° 88° HI 91° HI 84° HI HI of the chain’s original chicken Ramsey said.

Randolph Record The Randolph Guide LO 66° LO 62° LO 65° LO LO 70° 67° LO 70° LO 62° LO 68° LO 69° is a quickLO LO The sandwich 67° 69° became available sandwich. look at what’s Ramsey is the franchisee of Monday.

ASHEBORO — 13% Chick-fil-A’s PRECIP 57% PRECIP 43% PRECIP 32% 17% PRECIP PRECIPPRECIP 15% 24%onPRECIP in Randolph County.

PRECIP 20% PRECIPPRECIP 24%going PRECIP15% 5% So far, Ramsey likes the atten- both Asheboro locations, but only cauliflower sandwich has made its the stand-alone restaurant at 1212 tion that has come with it. way to Asheboro.

“We’re just trying to get the East Dixie Dr. is offering the cauliThe area is one of the test markets for the chicken restaurant word out,” he said. “It’s getting a flower sandwich. He said the Ranlot of buzz, and there’s interest in dolph Mall location’s kitchen is chain’s rollout of the new offering.

“We’re testing it to see what the it. It’s too early in the test to know too small to accommodate the test RANDOLPH COMMUNITY COLLEGE sandwich. (how people are reacting).” reaction is,” said Sam Ramsey, Lt. Henderson Retirement Ramsey has been a Chick-fil-A The cauliflower sandwich looks franchisee of two Chick-fil-A loParty cations in Asheboro. “We’re going like the chain’s traditional chick- franchisee in Asheboro since 1988.

Other test markets are in Dento see how a plant-based sandwich en sandwich. The difference is 12:30pm that this sandwich is comprised ver and Charleston, S.C. Ramsey will go over.”

The Triad has been designated of breaded and pressure-cooked said the availability of the sandThe Randleman Police wich as part of the test market will as one of the test markets, so that cauliflower.

Department will be holding a According to Chick-fil-A, the last a few months. will stretch from Winston-Salem party for Lt. Gene Henderson,

HI HI LO LO PREC PREC

February 23

RCC pushes more MEETfor THE STAFFstudents as num

PJ Ward-Brown before those classes start. said there’s an ef- That’s off slightly from the usual MattfortWilliams to bolster enrollment. He cit- number that ranges up to 1,000, “ ed the RCC Commitment Grant, Williams said.

ASHEBORO — Enrollment Lauren February 24 num- b Traditional enrollment at Randolph Community Col- a program designed as a funding lege isn’t likely to bounce back to mechanism to fill the gap that’s bers have flattened, but it’s the R Frank of Polatin high school students a pre-pandemic levels right away not covered by federal or state aid number Retro at Randolph Coryto students. in programs designed for dual enAMVETS despite a school official pointing “There has never been a bet- rollment that has dropped, out unprecedented financial in“We’re just not seeing the level R ter opportunity to attend RCC centives for potential students.

Who is “Editor?”

Chad Williams, vice president and not have to worry about how of engagement that we had seen,” S who is retiring after 30 years hard work and dedication! sion, ofthere’s enrollment of 915.

Refreshments will be served!

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

7:30pm

Retro Polatin, a band known for their covers of vintage Williams said. rock n’ roll classic pop break RCC held and a one-week hits from the 50s and 60s, will earlier this month amid the sumbe holding a free concert at mer semester, which began May Randolph AMVETS, which is 24 and concludes July 26.St.Late located at 142 W. Academy registration for the fall semester in Asheboro!

for student services at RCC, said a to pay for it,” RCC president Dr. decline in high school students in Robert Shackleford Jr. said. “We Albemarle, Lauren RoseN.C. 28001 POSTMASTER: dual enrollment has been the big- meet students exactly where they Send address to: Published eachchanges Wednesday are and help them go as far as they gest reason for a dip.

(704) 269-8461 North State Journal

by North StateMill Media, LLC 1201 Edwards Rd. “Overall, we’re still seeing a de- can possibly go.”

INFO@STANLYJOURNAL.COM 3101 Industrial Dr., Suite 105 Suite 300 Beginning with the fall semescline in enrollment comparing to STANLYJOURNAL.COM Raleigh, NC 27607 Raleigh, N.C. 27609 previous years prior to the pan- ter, qualifying full-time students runs through Aug. 10, with classTO SUBSCRIBE: 704-269-8461 demic,” Williams said. “I don’t will be eligible for up to $1,000 es beginning Aug. 16. online at nsjonline.com TOorSUBSCRIBE: 704-269-8461 Still dealing with adjustments know if we’ll get to numbers we’ve per semester. or Annual online at nsjonline.com Subscription Price: $50.00 Get in touch That makes attending RCC made because of the coronavirus seen in previous fall semesters. …

FILE PHOTO pandemic, not all 2021 fall semesthe most enticing from a finanWe’re reaching out to every stuPeriodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, Annual Subscription Price: $50.00N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

Liberty Town The Triad has been designated as one of the test markets for the cauliflower sandwich. will be in person. Some dent we can in every way we can.” cial standpoint in the 16 years ter classes Council Meeting Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. model with a Williams has been at the school, will use a hybrid A fall semester at the two-year POSTMASTER: andStanly at additional mailing offices.

County Journal of face-to-faces sessions school in Asheboro would often he said. He previously worked in mixture 5:30pm 1550 N.C. Hwy 24/27 W, POSTMASTER: and virtual sessions. Many classRCC’s financial aid office. have 2,600 to 3,000 students enAlbemarle, N.C. 28001.

Randolph Record The Liberty Town Council Send address changes students with options “There’s never a better time to es provide rolled.

At the beginning of this DEATH NOTICES Meeting will take place at the to: North State Journal on how to attend and participate, go back to college,” he said. week, that number stood at about 3101 Industrial Dr., Suite 105 Liberty Town Hall, located at ♦ Carl “Trae” Roe Gaines, III, age ♦ Cynthia “Cindy” Clemmer Moore, Nursing Home, Pleasant Garden.

Williams said.

For the current summer ses1,900 with about a month to go Raleigh, N.C. 27609 www 239 S. Fayetteville Street. at Raleigh, N.C. 24/27 and at additional 1550 N.C. Hwy W, Design Editor mailing offices.

February 27

DEATH NOTICES randolphrecord.com

♦ Christopher Enos Burris, 40, of Oakboro,X DEATH NOTICES WEEKLY FORECAST

♦ Georgia Bernice Siler,BY 89, of SPONSORED Siler City, died July 15, 2021, at her home. ♦ Harold Eugene “Gene” Anderson, 82, died at his home on Monday, July 12, 2021 in a tragic house fire.

53 of Goldston, died Saturday, age 65 of Bear Creek, died WEEKLY CRIME LOG February 18, 2023.

February 13, 2023, surrounded by her loved ones at her home. ♦ Treva Lee Watson, age 95 of Bear ♦ Williams, Creek, died at UNCDenishia Hospital Lorren♦ Gary Tyson Howard, age 76 Chapel(B Hill/F/30) of a stroke on on chrg ofof Bear Creek, died Monday, Arrest WEEKLY CRIME LOG Saturday, February 18, 2023.

February 13, 2023.

1) Pwimsd Marijuana (F), 2)

♦ Rebecca Ann (Brown) Lewis, age 66 of Star, died February 18, 2023. ♦ Lawrence Joseph “Butch” Ryder, Jr., age 80 of Carthage, died February 13, 2023 at FirstHealth Hospice House in West End, NC.

March 1

World Tavern Poker at Maintain Veh/dwell/place ♦ Linda “Kay” Keck McLaurin, age ♦ Cs Deanie Ross Callahan, age 70 of ♦ Doris Ann Goodknight Detlefs, age Carolina Tap House 77 of Siler City,3) died Thursday,X Asheboro, died Tuesday, February (f) (F), Possess 86 of Southern Pines, NC, died February 16, 2023.Matthew Harrison 14, 2023 The Randolph Hospice 176 E. Salisbury St, Asheboro, on Arrest on charge of Resisting ♦ Boggs, (M,at39), February 11, 2023.

7pm House in Asheboro 07/13/2021.

Public Officer, 321 Kings Ridge Rd, Arrest on Campen, charge of Misdemeanor ♦ Carrie Brewer Gillikin age 103 of Siler City, died Tuesday, ♦ Betty “Sue”Rd, Strider Spivey, age Join America’s #1 Bar Poker Randleman, on 07/14/2021.

Larceny, at 2587 Wayne White February 14, 2023.

86 of Randleman, died February ♦ Millikan, Bobby Wayne (M,at 33), League right in Asheboro Pleasant Garden, on 07/14/2021.

17, 2023 at Clapps Convalescent

the on Carolina TapofHouse!

Entry Arrest charge Assault on a ♦ Hazelwood, Elizabeth (F, 44), is 100% free toCurtis the public Female, at 8300 Power Rd, Arrest on chage of Misdemeanor ♦ Bolton McKee, James Henry and games take place every Bennett, NC, on 07/14/2021.

Larceny, at Hoover Hill Rd/Slick (M, 47), Arrest on charge of Wednesday night!

CALL OR TEXT Rodk Mtn, on 07/14/2021.

Possession of Stolen Goods, at WEEKLY CRIME LOG 336-629-7588 ♦ Passmore, Casey Lynn, Arrest on 6469 Clyde King Rd, Seagrove, on ♦ Addie Mae Hunt McLeod, charge of possession of marijuana ♦ Lynch, Lamont (M, (M, 40), ♦ Parker, Justin Allen (M, 35), Misdemeanor Larceny, on 2/11, Detrick ♦ Shaw, Buddy Scott 28), 07/15/2021. age 79, died July 11, 2021, at Arrested on charge of Traffiking at 2642 Bethal Lucas Rd. Arrested on charge of Larceny up to 1/2 oz., at Randolph Arrest on charge of Misdemeanor Autumn Care in Biscoe. in Methamphetamine, on 2/9, at from the Person, on 2/12, at 2161 WEDNESDAY FEB 22 Courthouse, on 7/13/2021.

Possession of VI CS, ♦ Pugh, Daniel (M, 39), Kirsten William ♦ Robertson, Woodman CampRobert Trl. MillSchedule Race Ct. (F, 52), Arrested on charge of Possessiong of Stolen Motor Arrest on charge of Simple ♦ Jonathan Edward Randolph County Board of Uttering Forged Instrument, ♦ Suriel, Jeremy Alberto (M, HI 73Ferree, 50, ♦ Rosser, Mikayla Dawn (F, ♦ Roark, Justin StevenMeeting (M, 30), Vehicle, at I-85 Exit 111, on Assault (M), at 139 Drum St, Commissioners of Black Mountain, of 28), Arrested on charge of Identity Theft, Obtain Property 19), Arrested on charge of Mal LOW formerly 66 Arrest on charge of Possession Communicating Threats, 2/9, False Pretense, on 2/11, at Conduct by Prisoner, Disorderly 07/13/2021.

Asheboro, onon07/14/2021.

Asheboro, died July 11,11% 2021.

6pm Possession with intent PRECIP at 3606 Meadowdale Lane.

Randolph Co Jail.

Conduct, Resisting Public Officer, of Meth, on 2/13, at 4222 NC HWY 42. to manufacture, sell or distribute ♦ McQueen, James Allen Jr (M, 35), Richardson, Erwin Jr (M,Frank Mason The Randolph County Board ♦ Hunt,♦ Rodney Tennyson (M, 50), Quint ♦ Romero, (M, ♦ Mildred Mae Cozart THURSDAY FEBPoole, 23 Arrested31), on charge of Felony 27), Arrested on charge of ♦ Tew, Thomasina Joan (F, 58), of Commissioners Meeting heroin, Simple possession of Arrest on charge of Possession Arrest on charges of Felony age 85, of Asheboro, died July Harboring Escapee, on 2/11, at Assault on a Female, Resisting Arrested on charge of Simple will be held at the Randolph of Marijuana up to 1/2 oz., Larceny and Possession of Stolen See OBITS, page 7 4160 Salem Church Rd. Public Officer, on 2/11, at 787 Possess Schedule IV CS, Possess Schedule II, III, IV CS, Maintaining 9, 2021.

HI 80 County Historic Courthouse, McDermott Drug Paraphernalia, on 2/11, at Place, Possession of Drug Possession of drug paraphernalia, Goods, at 5471 Needhams Trail, St. LOW 59 ♦ Murray, Francis Allen Jr (M, located at 145-C Worth Street NC HWY 42.

Paraphernalia, Failure to appeal on felony, failure Seagrove, onof07/14/2021.

48), Arrested on charge PRECIP 12% in Asheboro. at 1029 High Point Rd, on 7/13/2021. to appear on misdemeanor, at ♦ Seibert, Sarah Elizabeth (F, 32), FRIDAY See OBITS, pageFEB 7 24

March 6

HI 65 LOW 42 PRECIP 13%

BOE from page 1

for the 2024-25 school year.

“The calendar includes 180 student days, 14 teacher workdays, 11 SATURDAY FEB 25 holidays, and 10 annual leave days,” said Executive Director of OperaHI 47 tions Dale Brinkley. “The first day LOW 44 for students will be on Monday, August 26, 2024, and the last day for PRECIP 68%

By Dan Gelston students will be on Tuesday, June The Associated Press 10, 2025. The calendar includes an SUNDAY FEB 26 inclement weather make-up plan where the first five days missed are PHILADELPHIA — Triple H absorbed, and then days will be 64 crossed like walked with hisHIarms made up as scheduled.”

The board also approved the 2023-24 school calendar for Randolph Early College High School, which has the same breakdown of days but will align its start and end time with the Randolph Community College schedule.

“Early College programs have flexibility with their calendar guidelines that traditional schools do not have,” Brinkley said.

The board then approved the acceptance of a $57,965.95 Local Food for Schools Grant that was awarded by the United States Department of Agriculture through

the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Food Distribution Division that will go towards the additional purchase of locally sourced food to be used for school meals.

“A lot of stuff is made from scratch now, and the nutrition staff, there’s not a lot of them working in the school, so for them to go in… they just do so much,” Cook said.

“Three at most in most places, and you’re cooking from scratch for that many people, that says a lot. You used to hear complaints a little bit, but overall you don’t hear that now.

People talk about how good the food is. We appreciate all of that.”

Finally, the board approved the acceptance of a $176,000 Center for Safer Schools Safety Grant in order to help fund additional SROs for the elementary schools.

“We have to submit a mid-year and end-of-year report, and as long as we submit that documentation, we get the $176,000 again for next school year,” Brinkley said. “Right now, though, it’s just for this year and next year.”

The Randolph County Board of Education will next meet March 20.

the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1950, according to his official congressional biography. His father, J.E. Broyhill, began the family’s furniture dynasty in 1926 as the Lenoir Chair Company and was a well-known Republican in his own right.

“Jim added to that and made his contribution in a huge way as a member of Congress,” Martin said. “That family tradition has given an enormous boost to the Republican Party.” Ed Broyhill is now a Republican National Com-

mittee member.

Recently retired Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C., who was recruited by Broyhill to run for Congress more than 30 years ago, said he would be remembered as “a gentlemen and a statesman,” and called him a “mentor and confidant.”

“I always knew I could trust his advice and counsel because he viewed everything through the lens of what’s best for the country,” Burr said.

Current Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper praised Broyhill on Satur-

day in a tweet for his commitment and service to the state.

The congressman was preceded in death by his son, Philip. In addition to Ed Broyhill, other survivors of Broyhill include his wife of 71 years, Louise R. Broyhill; his daughter, Marilyn Broyhill Beach of Winston-Salem; six grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Broyhill’s funeral will be Feb. 28 at Centenary United Methodist Church in Winston-Salem, with a graveside service later that day in Wilkes County.

♦

♦

♦

WWE leaves virtual reality behind in 1st tour sin LOW 43 Degeneraan X — his signature tion X symbol PRECIP — with24% his 7-foot tag-team partner, Joel Embiid, to MONDAY FEB BROYHILL from page 1 ring a ceremonial bell27last month before a Philadelphia 76ers playin Washington. “He wanted to get HI 66 off game. to the best answer to solve prob55 lems.”

His themeLOWmusic blared PRECIP 24% through the arena, and near-After his 1986 defeat, Broyhill served on North Carolina’s Ecoly 19,000 fans hanging from the nomic Development Board. MarraftersTUESDAY roared when the wrestler tin later picked him to serve in his FEB 28 second-term Cabinet as commerce hoisted his bad-guy weapon-ofsecretary, saying he had “impeccaHI 64 choice sledgehammer and struck ble connections with North Carothe bell.

LOW 38 lina industry.”

Sure, the setting PRECIPwasn’t 11% Wres-A native of Lenoir, James Broyhill graduated from tleMania — though Triple H lostThomas a match in the same building when the event was held there in 1999 — but for the superstar-turned-ex-

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Randolph Record for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

OPINION

3

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

James Clapper can’t stop lying

The laptop lie began, as is often the case, with Adam Schiff, the California congressman who used the intelligence committee as a partisan disinfo clearinghouse.

IN AN INTERVIEW with The Washington Post’s “fact-checker,” former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper contends that Politico misled the public about a letter he and 50 other former intel officials signed during the 2020 presidential campaign warning that the New York Post’s Hunter Biden laptop story could be Russian deception. “There was message distortion,” Clapper tells The Washington Post. “All we were doing was raising a yellow flag that this could be Russian disinformation. Politico deliberately distorted what we said. It was clear in paragraph five.”

It was not clear, at all. The purpose of the letter, apparent then as it is now, was to discredit the Post’s scoop and provide Democrats and the media with ammunition to reject it. Of course, intel officials couldn’t definitively say that Hunter’s emails, which implicated Joe Biden as a business partner, were concocted by Vladimir Putin’s spooks. They had no access to the laptop. The purpose was to enlist former intel chiefs to cast doubt on the story. A perfunctory CYA paragraph doesn’t change anything.

The laptop lie began, as is often the case, with Adam Schiff, the California congressman who used the intelligence committee as a partisan disinfo clearinghouse. As soon as the story broke, Schiff claimed that “we know” — a phrase he used numerous times — that the emails had been planted by the Kremlin. By then, though, everyone understood the congressman was an irredeemable liar. The director of national intelligence, John Ratcliffe, issued a statement stressing that, actually, there was no evidence to back Schiff’s claims.

That’s when Politico reported that more than 50 former senior intelligence officials had signed a letter asserting that the laptop “has all the classic earmarks of a Russian information operation.” The most notable signees were Clapper, a man who ran a domestic surveillance program and then lied about it to Congress, and former CIA director John Brennan, a man who once oversaw an operation of illegal spying on a Senate staffer, and then also lied about it to the American people.

The letter worked exactly as intended. “Look,” Biden said during the last 2020 presidential debate when asked about the laptop, “there are 50 former national intelligence folks who said that what he’s accusing me of is a Russian plan.” On “60 Minutes,” Biden called the story “disinformation from the Russians.” Clapper tells The Washington Post that he had absolutely no idea how the former vice president had framed the contents of the letter — which is, to be generous, implausible nonsense.

If Clapper’s letter was merely a good-faith warning, then why didn’t any of the other signees push back against Biden’s contention during their numerous television appearances? Did none of them watch the

presidential debates? Why didn’t Clapper send a follow-up statement clarifying his position after the Politico headline purportedly “distorted” the letter? Did he not see the piece until now — just as Republicans are about to investigate?

All the Post’s pedantic “fact check” does is offer the signees, and itself, cover. The Washington Post excuses the media’s (ongoing) suppression of the Hunter Biden story by arguing that the “leak of emails from the Democratic National Committee and Clinton campaign chairman John Podesta,” which “may have contributed to Donald Trump’s unexpected victory in 2016,” made journalists extra cautious about relaying uncorroborated information. That contention is gravely undercut by the hundreds of pieces and columns the Post ran based on the Democratic oppo research that contained what was almost surely Russian disinformation. Any skeptical journalist would have also immediately identified the letter, and the Politico piece, as a nakedly partisan attempt to undermine the legitimacy of a story.

Indeed, the New York Post’s Hunter story had far more substantiation than any of the histrionic Russia-collusion pieces that the public was subjected to during the Trump years. The Post detailed how it came into possession of its evidence. It interviewed the owner of the Delaware computer shop where Hunter had abandoned his laptop. It provided Hunter’s signature on a receipt. The Post had on-the-record sources with intimate knowledge of Hunter’s business dealings. They had onthe-record interviews with people who claimed to have interactions with the presidential candidate — incidents we now know Biden had lied about for years. And later, the emails were authenticated by forensic specialists at other outlets, as well.

Virtually the entire censorious journalistic establishment, including The Washington Post, with the help of tech giants and former spooks, limited the story’s exposure by either banning it outright as disinformation, creating the impression that it didn’t meet proper journalistic standards or implying that it had been planted by Russians.

The media wasn’t going to allow another Hillary Clinton-like scandal to sink the prospects of a Democrat. And Clapper played a big part in that deception.

David Harsanyi is a senior editor at The Federalist. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of five books — the most recent, “Eurotrash: Why America Must Reject the Failed Ideas of a Dying Continent.”

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

Young Americans are losing their minds.

The social left is to blame.

The answer to five decades of social Leftism resulting in two generations unmoored from mental health is... more social Leftism!

THIS WEEK, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new data showing that our nation’s young girls are in a state of absolute emotional and mental crisis.

According to the CDC, 57% of high school girls said they were depressed in 2021, compared with 36% in 2011; 30% said they had considered suicide, compared with 19% in 2011. The numbers had also increased markedly for high school boys: 29% of high school boys reported depressive symptoms, up from 21% in 2011; 14% of high school boys had considered suicide, up from 13% a decade before.

Naturally, our nation’s pseudoscientific experts blame societal intolerance and lack of sexual sensitivity. Never mind the fact that more kids than ever are declaring themselves members of nonexistent identity groups (Demisexual! Gender nonbinary!), mistakenly self-diagnosing with Tourette’s syndrome or gender dysphoria, and claiming victimhood at the hands of a cruel society — a society that rewards and cheers all such claims. Never mind that we’ve now undergone a gender revolution in which we’ve declared biological sex itself passe, treated heterosexual norms as taboo and misogynistic and attempted to wipe away — along with actual sexual predation — much normal behavior in the name of #MeToo. No, says the CDC, the problem — as always — is with society’s demands. As The Wall Street Journal reports, the CDC recommends “teaching kids about sexual consent, managing emotions, and asking for what they need”; furthermore, “Schools should encourage gender and sexuality alliances, provide safe spaces and people for LGBTQ+ students to go to for support, and ensure enforcement of antiharassment policies.”

Yes, the answer to five decades of social Leftism resulting in two generations unmoored from mental health is... more social Leftism!

Or, alternatively, any society that attempts to destroy all rules, roles and intermediate institutions laden with traditional values will end up

abandoning its children — all in the name of tolerance and diversity. We have robbed young men of a sense of meaning: we’ve told them that they need not be providers, protectors or defenders, and that even aspiring to do so makes them bigoted remnants of the past. Instead, young men are told that they ought to relegate themselves to the role of “male feminists,” condemning their own “toxic masculinity” while shying away from the commitments that turn boys into men.

We have robbed young women of any sense of place, time or purpose: we’ve told them that they need not seek out a husband, aspire to bear and rear children or make preparations to build a home. Instead, we’ve told them that they can run from their own biology, declaring themselves boys rather than girls, delaying childbearing indefinitely, pursuing the things that are supposedly truly important: sexual license, more work hours, sipping wine at brunch with single friends.

We have done all of this because children do not lie at the top of our civilizational hierarchy: the interests of adults do. Increasingly, adults in the West see children as either a burden and thus avoid having them, or as validators of their own sense of subjective self-identity, requiring indoctrination into more liberal forms of social organization.

And now children are paying the price.

The social Left has been in control of virtually all levers of culture and policy for decades. Now they demand more control in order to alleviate the consequences of the chaos they have created. The answer, of course, is precisely the opposite: the reinvigoration of traditional sources of wisdom and values, the re-inculcation of morality and obligation. If our society does not quickly reverse field, the consequences for our young people will be utterly disastrous.

Ben Shapiro, 38, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

4

SPORTS SIDELINE REPORT NFL

Bieniemy leaves Chiefs for OC role with Commanders Eric Bieniemy has agreed to be the Commanders’ offensive coordinator and assistant head coach. The team announced Saturday that the two-time Super Bowl-winning assistant with Kansas City will be joining Washington.

Bieniemy now gets the chance to show what he can do without Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes.

The 54-year-old emerged from a pool of more than a half-dozen candidates as Washington’s choice for the job following the Chiefs’ second championship in his five seasons as their offensive coordinator. The longtime NFL assistant has interviewed for numerous head coaching jobs.

NBA

Westbrook to sign with Clippers Los Angeles After being waived by the Jazz, Russell Westbrook is expected to sign with the Clippers. The nine-time All-Star will sign with the Clippers after completing a contract buyout on the remaining $47 million he is owed on his expiring deal.

Westbrook averaged 15.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 7.1 assists in 28.7 minutes per game during a rocky tenure with the Lakers. The move would reunite Westbrook with Paul George, his former teammate in Oklahoma City. George had lobbied for the Clippers to land Westbrook.

NHL

Blues trade O’Reilly, Acciari to Maple Leafs St. Louis The Blues are looking to the future after trading captain and center Ryan O’Reilly along with center Noel Acciari to the Maple Leafs on Friday night. St. Louis acquired Toronto’s 2023 first-round draft pick and 2024 second-round draft pick and Ottawa’s 2023 third-round pick from the Maple Leafs along with AHL forwards Mikhail Abramov and Adam Gaudette. The trade comes with St. Louis sitting eight points out of a playoff spot with a 26-25-3 record entering play Saturday.

The Blues traded forward Vladimir Tarasenko and defenseman Niko Mikkola to the Rangers on Feb. 9.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

UNLV freshman football player dies Las Vegas UNLV announced that defensive lineman Ryan Keeler died Monday. He was 20. No cause of death was given. Keeler, who is from Chicago, transferred to UNLV from Rutgers last year. He played in seven games as a redshirt freshman this past season, totaling eight tackles and a sack. Keeler, who made the academic All-Mountain West team, had a 3.80 GPA. “We are devastated to have lost a member of our Rebel family,” UNLV coach Barry Odom said in a statement.

AP PHOTO

Former NASCAR driver Richard Petty, center, poses for a photo with Jimmie Johnson, left, and Erik Jones, right, at Daytona International Speedway last week.

Dethroned King: Petty hurt as Johnson takes over race team The two living seven-time Cup champions are at odds over Johnson’s rebranding The Associated Press DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Richard Petty may still reign as NASCAR’s King, but with Jimmie Johnson wresting control of Petty’s old race team, he is definitively not the boss.

The Hall of Famer essentially has been stripped of power inside his former eponymous team that rapidly rebranded and rebuilt since November. Johnson and Petty are the only living seven-time NASCAR champions — and that appears to be where the similarities end inside Legacy Motor Club’s front office.

The 85-year-old Petty, who is officially Legacy’s ambassador, said Saturday he has bruised feelings and little say in the direction of the race team since Johnson bought into the ownership group.

“It’s been strange to me,” Petty said. “Most of the time, I ran the majority of the show. Jimmie brought all his people in. His way of running things and my way of running things are probably a little bit different. We probably agree on about 50% of what it really comes down to.”

Ahead of the Daytona 500, an unfiltered Petty said he was irked

by Johnson’s rise in power. “Yes, it does” bother him, he said.

But Petty conceded it was “probably time for a change” because through several incarnations of his race team — the latest Petty GMS — his cars had never risen above the middle of the pack. GMS founder Maury Gallagher, chairman of Allegiant Air, purchased Richard Petty Motorsports in 2021 and Petty, whose 200 Cup wins as a driver are a record, served as the front man.

Johnson told The Associated Press he was “disappointed” that Petty publicly expressed his displeasure, adding: “Of course, we’ll have conversations.”

“Jimmie’s thinking further ahead with his crew and came up with a new name.”

Richard Petty “He’s not expressed them to me, for starters,” Johnson said. “Honestly, there are a lot of moving pieces to this. There are business decisions that are taking place between Mr. Gallagher and the Petty family before I ever arrived. Those are details that are just not my place to say.

“But a lot of what Richard is speaking to is based on business decisions that he and his family have made and they aren’t relative to my involvement.”

One of Johnson’s first decisions: Strip the Petty name that dates in NASCAR to 1949.

“When Jimmie came in, it was

going to be hard to be Johnson Petty GMS,” Petty said. “Jimmie’s thinking further ahead with his crew and came up with a new name.”

The Level Cross native remains NASCAR’s most recognizable personality, wearing his feathered Charlie 1 Horse hats, dark glasses and cowboy boots. He’s never stopped signing autographs, making personal appearances or glad-handing sponsors, though even those responsibilities seem more uncertain under Johnson’s reign.

“They don’t take over the racing part, they take over the front office,” Petty said. “With sponsorships, appearances and all that stuff, Jimmie’s crowd is kind of controlling that. That’s something I never had to put up with, I guess.”

Petty did tip his hat to Johnson’s business acumen: Johnson’s connections with Gibson guitars and music industry relationships, including entertainment giant Live Nation, were instrumental in landing legendary rock band Guns N’ Roses on the hood of Erik Jones’ No. 43 Chevrolet.

“He’s basically going to wind up running the show in four or five years completely,” Petty said. “He’ll probably be the majority owner or the owner of our operation. They’re looking at things completely differently.”

Trea Turner settling in for long future in Philadelphia The former NC State infielder signed a $300 million contract with the Phillies during the offseason

The Associated Press CLEARWATER, Fla. — The past few years have been a bit of a whirlwind for Trea Turner. They included a World Series title in Washington, a trade to Los Angeles — and then an 11-year, $300 million contract that brought him back to the NL East.

The one constant amid all that: Turner has played with some pretty impressive teammates. And that’s not about to change.

“I’ve been on some really, really good teams with some great players — last year being one of them,” Turner, the former NC State standout, said Sunday. “That’s kind of the beauty and the difficult thing about baseball. The best teams don’t always win. Just because we got a lot of talent in here and a lot of good guys, and they made it to the World Series last year, doesn’t mean it’s going to happen again.

You’ve got to put in the work.”

The Phillies seemed to understand that this offseason. Yes, they won the National League pennant last year, but they were also an 87win wild card appearing in the postseason for the first time in over a decade. And Philadelphia shares a division with teams in Atlanta and New York that appear formidable for the foreseeable future.

Signing Turner, a 29-year-old

AP PHOTO

Phillies shortstop Trea Turner smiles during a spring training workout last Friday in Clearwater, Florida. shortstop who has been an AllStar the past two years, showed the Phillies are willing to stay aggressive, too.

It also gave Turner some stability. Washington declined quickly after winning the World Series in 2019. The Nationals eventually dealt both Turner and Max Scherzer to the Dodgers two seasons later. That put Turner right back in the postseason for a couple years.

All that moving — plus a pan-

demic and a lockout that created doubts about whether baseball would be played at all — could wear on anyone. But now Turner has a long-term deal with another strong team.

“That’s something that me, my wife and my family wanted, was just, not have to rent anymore, not have to move around, not have to worry about getting traded,” he said. “A lot of guys, probably overwhelming majority, don’t get to choose where they get to play for

their career. Luckily enough, I was in a situation where I could pick.

I’m stuck here, and nobody can tell me otherwise, so I think I’m really happy about that, that security.”

Turner’s deal included a full notrade provision.

In Philadelphia’s clubhouse at spring training, Turner’s locker is right next to Bryce Harper’s. The two played together in Washington before Harper signed with the Phillies before the 2019 season.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Randleman girls respond, claim PAC Tournament in overtime Rally from Eastern Randolph creates drama

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record RAMSEUR — Randleman’s recovery from a few late-game glitches made the Tigers’ championship that much more impressive Friday night in the girls’ basketball final of the Piedmont Athletic Conference Tournament.

One thing the Tigers weren’t lacking was that internal belief that they would find a way to successfully defend their title.

“Coach (Brandon) Varner told us, ‘You’ve worked so hard for this,’” senior center Graycn Hall said. “We’re going to show how hard we’ve worked.”

That was just part of the conclusion as the drama unfolded in Randleman’s 57-55 overtime victory against host and second-seeded Eastern Randolph in front of an overflow crowd.

“They earned this,” Varner said of his players. “You play in a conference tournament championship game on their court. We had to earn it, and that’s what we should want.”

The regular-season champion Tigers (24-1) didn’t make a field goal in the overtime period, but they drained more free throws and made key defensive stops to come away with the prize they were seeking.

“That’s all I wanted was this tournament,” senior guard Elizabeth York said. “It’s always a bigger win when you win an away game.”

York sank two free throws at the 12-second mark to put the Tigers ahead and added another foul shot in the final second.

Eastern Randolph (17-7) wiped out a nine-point fourth-quarter deficit and scored the first four points of overtime.

“One more basket,” Wildcats coach Jeff Davis said of what was needed, noting that Randleman “is

5 BEST OVERALL ATHLETE OF THE WEEK

Maddie Small Maddie Small of Southwestern Randolph takes a shot against Trinity last week.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Members of the Randleman girls’ basketball team gather with the hardware after defeating host Eastern Randolph in overtime. a great defending team.”

Randleman needed the defense because the Tigers had a late stretch spanning the fourth quarter and overtime when they committed four consecutive turnovers, shot an air ball, had a shot blocked, and were guilty of another turnover.

Eastern Randolph’s rally consisted of Mackenzie Gee’s 3-pointer, two Brecken Snotherly free throws, and Snotherly’s tying fastbreak basket.

Hall countered with a basket on a low-post move before Whitaker hit a runner. York scored on a backdoor play with 41 seconds to go, but another turnover with a chance to seal the outcome nearly doomed the Tigers.

Snotherly was fouled on a 3-point attempt with 6.1 seconds remaining. She missed the first attempt, then drained the next two. That extended the game.

“We dug deep,” Davis said. “We gave everything we had. This is the one that’s going to keep us up at night.”

Kenly Whitaker’s basket off a rebound and Snotherly’s bucket put Eastern Randolph up 53-49.

“We can’t give up,” Hall said.

“We were so close. I was trying to keep (my teammates) believing that

we’re not losing.”

Trouble brewed for the Wildcats as Logan Beaver, and Kenly Whitaker fouled out in Eastern Randolph’s first overtime game of the season.

Randleman didn’t score in overtime until 1:22 was showing on the clock. In a 19-second span, Jordan Booker was good on four free throws to pull the Tigers even.

Hall’s foul shot gave Randleman a one-point edge before Snotherly connected on two free throws with 13.5 seconds to play. York did the rest of the scoring.

Snotherly, who was short on a would-be go-ahead shot in the final seconds of overtime, finished with 27 points despite double- and triple-team schemes to slow her down.

She still found ways to create openings for herself and her teammates.

“She freelanced a little bit,” Davis said.

Hall racked up 21 points and 21 rebounds, and York and Booker both scored 15 points. The Tigers shot 21-for-24 on free throws.

Beaver added 10 points, and Whitaker had nine points for Eastern Randolph.

Randleman has gone two full seasons without a loss in PAC competition.

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Southwestern Randolph, girls’ basketball Small had a couple of solid games last week in the Piedmont Athletic Conference Tournament.

She’s a senior captain on a team that has several key underclassmen.

Small, a forward, provided nine points when the Cougars defeated Trinity 47-46 in the PAC Tournament quarterfinals. She led Southwestern Randolph with 14 points in a 75-49 semifinal loss to Eastern Randolph.

PREP BASKETBALL

Wildcats capture another prize, topple Trinity boys in PAC final

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record RAMSEUR — Timothy Brower was down on the court in pain in the first quarter of the Piedmont Athletic Conference Tournament’s boys’ basketball championship.

The Eastern Randolph guard delivered much of the punishment for the rest of Friday night’s game.

Brower’s 28 points helped propel the regular-season champion Wildcats in a 74-64 victory against visiting Trinity that marked their first conference tournament title in seven years.

Brower said he sensed his tumble was pleasing to the opposing team’s fans.

“It kind of hit me,” he said. “That turned something on inside me.”

The Wildcats sure know how to turn it on, and even though a 17-point lead shrunk to two points in the fourth quarter, they had what it took to turn away third-seeded Trinity.

It’s the winningest season in program history for Eastern Randolph (24-2).

“I knew we were going to have a good season, but I didn’t think it would be like this,” said senior guard Pierce Leonard, a transfer from Uwharrie Charter Academy.

The latest example from the Wildcats might have been fitting.

“It was how our boys persevered,” first-year coach Johnny Thomas said. “We’re not only showing people that we can be a fast team, we’re showing people that we can be a smart team. We can play halfcourt basketball, and in the process of playing half-court basketball, we can get the job done.

“We allowed ourselves to stay positive and stay motivated. So the highlight for me is walking away with not only the (regular-season) championship, but the tournament championship.”

Eastern Randolph’s Davonte Brooks, despite not feeling well at times, racked up 20 points, and Connor Carter’s 12 points came on four 3-point baskets.

“They run their system well,” Trinity coach Tim Kelly said. “They have so many different weapons.

They’re the best team in our league.”

Brower, a sophomore, nearly doubled his season average of 14.9 points per game.

Teams embark on state playoffs RANDLEMAN’S GIRLS and Eastern Randolph’s boys’ teams are the highest-seeded teams from Randolph County in the basketball state playoffs.

The playoffs were to begin Tuesday night. All of the teams from the county are in the West Region.

Second-round games will be Thursday night, and third-round games Saturday, all slated on the courts of the higher seeds.

Girls

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Eastern Randolph’s Timothy Brower goes up for a basket as Trinity’s Jacob Hodges, right, defends. Other Trinity players, left to right, Grayson Earls, Dylan Hodges and Dominic Payne look on.

“I knew whoever was guarding me couldn’t guard me,” Brower said, dealing with what he described as a hyperextended knee.

“He got everywhere he wanted to get to,” Thomas said of Brower.

Despite now tripling last season’s eight-win total, this title game was far from automatic.

“We just couldn’t close out,” Kelly said of rallies that faded.

Dominic Payne racked up 25 points, Dylan Hodges had 15 of his 19 points in the first half, and Brandon Campbell tallied 12 points for Trinity (20-7).

Eastern Randolph ended the first quarter on a 20-3 stretch and extended its lead to 30-13 by scoring the first five points of the second quarter. Trinity’s 14-1 run changed the game’s complexion.

The Wildcats’ 38-31 halftime edge grew again as Brower put together a stellar third quarter. Trinity ended up in the bonus early in the second half, but the Bulldogs also encountered foul trouble as Campbell and Hodges picked up their fourth fouls with more than

seven minutes to play.

Still, Trinity shook off a 12-point hole, with Payne’s three-point play and his baseline jumper cutting the deficit to 59-57. The Bulldogs had a possession with a chance to tie or go ahead.

The next points came from Brooks on a putback of his own missed shot, then Brower drained a 14-foot jump before Carter’s 3 made it 66-59 with less than two minutes left.

“It felt awesome because no one thought we could do it,” Brower said.

The final score might have been closer, but Kelly didn’t want his team to back off.

“Why do that?” Kelly said. “Give yourself a chance to win.”

Leonard ended up on the PAC Tournament title-winning team for the second year in a row.

“I do what I got to do to allow us to win,” he said.

It was the first time either team had reached a conference tournament final since 2016. Eastern Randolph also won that matchup.

In Class 2-A, Piedmont Athletic Conference regular-season and tournament champion Randleman (24-1) is the West Region’s No. 1 seed with an opening home game against No. 32 seed Bandys (11-14).

Three other PAC teams were in the Class 2-A field.

Southwestern Randolph (188), seeded 15th, was home against West Lincoln (15-10). No. 22 seed Trinity (12-13) went to No. 11 seed North Wilkes (22-5), while No. 25 seed Wheatmore (6-14) traveled to eighth-seeded East Rutherford (25-2).

In Class 1-A girls, Eastern Randolph (17-7) holds the No. 5 seed with a home date with No. 28 seed South Davidson (10-13).

Uwharrie Charter Academy (1115) is the No. 23 seed with a visit to No. 10 Christ the King (13-8).

Boys Eastern Randolph (24-2) already has the winningest team in program history and owns the PAC regular-season and tournament titles. To begin the state playoffs, the third-seeded Wildcats were to play No. 30 Cherryville (12-12) at home in the Class 1-A first round.

UCA (7-18) slid into the field as the No. 31 seed in Class 1-A, going to No. 2 seed South Stokes (22-4).

In Class 2-A, Southwestern Randolph had a strong late-season stretch and held the No. 9 seed and a home matchup with Burns (12-12). The Cougars had a 10-game winning streak before a PAC Tournament semifinal loss to visiting Trinity by one point.

No. 15 seed Trinity (20-7), which lost to Eastern Randolph in Friday night’s tournament final, was slated to be home against No. 18 seed Newton-Conover (15-12) in Class 2-A. As the No. 20 seed, Randleman (15-11) headed to No. 13 seed High Point Andrews (17-9).

In Class 3-A, Mid-Piedmont Conference regular-season champion Asheboro is seeded No. 7 with a home game against No. 26 seed North Henderson (14-13).

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Sean Adkins of Southwestern Randolph shoots over Wheatmore’s Kamdyn Wood in last week’s PAC Tournament.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

6 PREP WRESTLING

PJ WARD-BROWN | NORTH STATE JOURNAL

Left, Uwharrie Charter Academy’s Aldo Hernandez picks up Alleghany’s Cameron Worrick in the Class 1-A state final at 138 pounds Right, Southwestern Randolph’s Jose Flores controls Mt. Pleasant’s Colt Kluttz during the 220-pound state final in Class 2-A.

UCA duo, Southwestern Randolph’s Flores secure state titles Randolph Record

Class 1-A

GREENSBORO — ­ Senior wrestler Aldo Hernandez became a three-time state champion, including two seasons in a row for Uwharrie Charter Academy, and two underclassmen from Randolph County schools also won state championships.

Hernandez captured the Class 1-A title at 138 pounds with a dominating performance across two days at the Greensboro Coliseum. Freshman teammate Lorenzo Alston won at 145 pounds.

In Class 2-A, it was a three-day meet, capped for Southwestern Randolph 220-pound sophomore Jose Flores with Saturday night’s championship.

UCA had three runners-up, finishing third in the Class 1-A team standings.

Hernandez, who nabbed a state title in 2021 for Montgomery Central, concluded his final prep season with a 52-2 record.

In the state tournament, he had a pin, a 10-3 decision, and then dominated Alleghany sophomore Cameron Worrick for a second-period technical fall in the final.

Alston’s first season resulted in a 54-2 record. He was efficient in the tournament with a pin and two major decisions, the latter coming by 11-3 against Robbinsville’s Willie Riddle in the cham-

pionship match.

UCA junior Ethan Hines (106), senior Grayson Roberts (170), and junior Jaden Maness (195) were runners-up.

Hines, a junior, dropped a 1-0 decision to Avery County sophomore Cooper Foster in the title bout.

Roberts, the 2022 champion at 160, lost a 1-0 decision to Avery County freshman Cael Dunn after recording a pair of pins in the tournament. Roberts ended his last season with a 50-5 record.

In the 195 final, Avery County senior Seth Blackledge pinned Maness, a junior, in 1:33.

Third place for the Eagles went to Carson Robinson (160), while teammate Alec Millikan (152)

was fourth. Eastern Randolph’s Adrian Lopez (126) placed third.

Class 2-A Flores capped a 30-2 season by defeating Mt. Pleasant junior Colt Kluttz 3-0. He won three earlier matches by decision, including a 12-11 outcome against Walkertown J’Lynn Sheff in the semifinals.

Trinity junior Spencer May was the runner-up at 120, dropping 7-5 sudden-victory decision in the final to Eden Morehead junior Jared Thomas. May had three pins to reach the final, with two of those coming in the first periods.

Providence Grove senior Colton

Asheboro turns to Eastern Randolph alum as volleyball coach

By Bob Sutton Randolph Record ASHEBORO — Kelly Smith has been hired as the new volleyball coach at Asheboro.

Smith will be the team’s third volleyball coach in three years. She replaces Kim Black, whose third stint as head coach of the program lasted just one year.

Smith, an Eastern Randolph alum, was coach of her alma mater’s volleyball team in 2017 and

2018 before going to Southern Guilford for three years. She spent time as the volleyball and girls’ basketball coach at Southern Guilford, though without a winning season.

She has been away from varsity competition during this school year.

“I felt like I wanted to come back into the gym,” Smith said of returning to the varsity level.

Smith was a volleyball and basketball standout at Eastern Ran-

dolph, graduating in 2006. She played basketball collegiately at West Virginia and East Carolina.

In 2022, Asheboro went 7-15 with a 4-6 record in the Mid-Piedmont Conference. Black, who guided the Blue Comets to the 1994 Class 3-A state championship, is the all-time winningest coach in Asheboro volleyball history with a 253-112 record.

Smith works as a physical education teacher at North Asheboro Middle School. She said in her

COURTESY PHOTO

Kelly Smith time with Asheboro City Schools that she has felt connected to the high school because of the close relationship between the district’s schools.

Wood was a repeat place winner, taking third at 285 pounds. His only loss was a one-point loss that went to overtime to Maiden’s DJ Spring, the eventual champion.

He was sixth last year.

Trinity had a solid showing, with Brayden Hall (113), Joey Smith (220) in fourth place, and Levi Dennis (126) in fifth place.

Wheatmore had Trey Swaney (132) and Dominic Hittepole (160) both in fourth place.

Luke White (138) of Southwestern Randolph finished sixth.

Class 3-A Asheboro senior Diego Gutierrez was the only one of the four Blue Comets entrants to win a bout in the tournament. He placed third at 120 with a 4-1 record to complete the season with a 41-2.

His only loss in the tournament came in a 4-3 decision to East Henderson’s Gunner Marshall in the semifinals. Marshall was the eventual runner-up.

While she didn’t attend Blue Comets volleyball matches in 2022, she saw some practices because the high school team used the middle school gym while renovations took place at the high school.

During the past few months, Smith has coached volleyball and girls’ basketball at the middle school. She said she intends to remain as the volleyball coach at North Asheboro Middle School with that season in the second half of the school year. With middle school operating for grades 6-12, she could have a seven-year connection with some players.

“It works perfect,” she said.

Smith, who lives in Franklinville, said an Eastern Randolph-Asheboro non-conference volleyball match has been scheduled for 2023.

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Randolph Record for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

7

obituaries

Mary Thacker Bullins

Scott Bunting

February 18, 1949 — February 19, 2023

August 26, 1948 — February 17, 2023

Mary Alberta Thacker Bullins, age 74, of Asheboro passed away on Sunday, February 19, 2023 at her home.

Mrs. Bullins was born in Norton,VA on February 18, 1949 to Jessie Earl and Mary Alice Shook Thacker. Mary was retired from Rampon Products and formerly attended Grace Baptist Church. In addition to her parents, Mary was preceded in death by her daughter, Tammy Lynn Lambeth, and her brothers, Carl, Lee, and Doyle Thacker.

She is survived by her husband of 54 years, Samuel Eugene Bullins; son, Bryan Bullins of the home; sister, Linda Combs of Indianapolis, IN; and brother, Tom Thacker of Kentucky.

Samuel Scott Bunting, age 74, of Asheboro passed away peacefully on Friday, February 17, 2023.

Scott was born in Asheboro on August 26, 1948, to C. H. and Polly Bunting. Scott was a 1966 graduate of Farmer High School and graduated from Appalachian State University in 1971. He was formerly employed by Iredell County Schools.

After suffering life altering injuries in an automobile accident in 1981 Scott was long time resident of Wesleyan Arms Nursing Home in High Point and most recently a resident of Clapp’s Nursing Home in Asheboro. Prior to his accident Scott enjoyed playing the piano and organ at his church, Bethel Baptist Church, in Iredell County. He was also a volunteer fireman for the Troutman Fire Department.

Scott is preceded in death by his parents, C. H. Bunting and Polly Bunting.

Scott is survived by the love of his life, Artie Poole Phillips, daughter Melissa Bunting of Troutman and daughter Kathryn Sowers (Trent) of Statesville, NC., brother Steve Bunting (Christi) of Randleman. He is also survived by three grandchildren, grandson, David Scott Meadows and granddaughters Taylor Sowers and Kenleigh Sowers and nephew Ben Bunting of New Bern, NC.

Elnora "Nora" Smith Weeks

Sandra Dixon Hopson

October 18, 1943 — February 16, 2023

Norma Cain Arthur d. February 15, 2023

Sandra Dixon Hopson, 79, of Randleman, passed on February 16, 2023 at Wesley Long Hospital.

She was born on October 18, 1943 to Clinton Rudolph and Sarah Elizabeth Dixon.

Mrs. Hopson was a native of Hillsborough. She loved gardening and planting flowers, and she loved to lay out in the sun at the beach. Earlier on in life, she was a stay at home mother before she retired from Belk. In addition to her parents, Sandra is preceded in death by her husband, Donald Hopson, and her brother, Richard Dixon.

She is survived by her daughter: Dawn Hopson Lowe of Sophia; son: Greg Hopson and his wife Tina of Trinity; grandchildren, Whitney Brewington (Michael), Shelby Smith, Garrett Hopson (Stephanie), and Sarah Hopson; great grandchildren, Jackson Brewington, and Savanna Brewington.

Norma Cain Arthur, passed on February 15, 2023. She was born to David and Grace Davis Cain.

She loved her husband of over 30 years, David Arthur, and all her family; especially her grandchildren. She retired from Analog Devices where she was a hazardous materials handler.

Norma loved gardening and loved reading. She and David are members of Coble Evangelical Lutheran Church, Julian. She is preceded in death by her parents, and her sister Brenda Beane.

She is survived by her loving husband, David, children, Jerry Harris Jr., Jimmy Harris, Christine Lyons (Jason), and Denise Shepherd (Nickolas); her grandchildren, Shannon Harris, Ian Shepherd (Morgan), Katina Durham (Jordan), Eliot Shepherd, Ayden Shepherd, Jade Barker (Nick), and Olin Shepherd; great-grandchildren, Zephyr, and Charlie Barker; sister, Linda Nelson (Ken), half-sister, Gail Hinesley, and half-brother David Cain.

Harold Edward Auman

Vivian Hall Bean

Sara Russell Whitt

August 15, 1953 — February 14, 2023 Sara Jane Russell Whitt, 69, of Nashville, NC, passed away on February 14, 2023, in Roanoke, VA with her battle overcoming respiratory distress.

Sara Whitt was born in Randolph County to Judd and Marry Russell on August 15, 1953. She went to high school at Randolph High and graduated in 1971. She went on to earn an Associate Degree in Nursing from Randolph County Community College. She worked as a Licensed Practical Nurse for 48 years. She enjoyed spending time with her children and grandchildren. She received Employee of the Month multiple times and Division Hero for BAYADA home health nursing in 2022.

Sara is survived by; her husband, Gordon Whitt, of Nashville, NC, her son, John Whitt of Raleigh, NC, her daughter, Melissa Manley of Conroe, TX, her step-daughter Chrystal Donovan of Tallahassee, FL, as well as her sisters Nancy Hughes, Kathy Overcash and Teresa Mabe, her brother Joe Russell and her grandchildren Hayden Whitt (10), David Manley (3), Lexi Attaway (21), Isabella Castro (15), Ava Castro (18), and Aaron Castro (21). She is preceded in death by her mother, Mary Russell, and father, Judd Russell.

March 20, 1939 — February 15, 2023

Elnora Smith " Nora" Weeks 83, of Randleman passed away Wednesday morning peacefully at her home.

Nora was born in Evinston, Florida on March 20, 1939, to Alvin Terry Smith and Rebecca Deese Smith.

She was a 1960 graduate of Berry College in Rome, Ga. with a bachelor's degree in education and was a retired teacher. Nora was a faithful servant of her Lord and Savior through teaching Sunday School, Bible School and running the church library in her home church of Westwood Baptist Church in Live Oak, Florida. After moving to North Carolina 18 years ago to be near her children and grandchildren, Nora became a member of First Baptist Church of Asheboro where she was a member of Teresa Campbell’s Sunday School class. Her biggest and most treasured accomplishment was being a loving devoted wife to Sam for 59 years. She also shared many years of cherished memories with her two dearest friends, Barbara Garrett and Judy Read of Live Oak, Florida for over 50 years.

Nora was predeceased by her parents, her husband Sam, her sister Jean Smith.

Left to cherish her memory are her children: Lisa Nixon (Clint) of Archdale, NC Jennifer Hicks (Marty) of Sophia, NC grandchildren Caleb Chauncy (Rachel) of Charleston, SC, Erin Presnell (Justin) of Climax, NC Emily Garner (Kendell) of Asheboro, NC and Jake Nixon of Randleman, NC; greatgrandchildren Aubryn Kate Presnell, Reagen Leigh Presnell, siblings: Allen Smith (Sarah) and Doris Freeman both of Georgia.

Bobby Gene Phelps, Jr.

December 9, 1952 — February 13, 2023 Bobby Gene Phelps, Jr., age 70, of Asheboro passed away on Monday, February 13, 2023 at Randolph Hospital.

Mr. Phelps was born in Davidson County on December 9, 1952 to Bobby Gene and Corrina Gillispe Phelps. Bobby served his country in the U.S. Marine Corps and was retired from Thomasville Furniture. In addition to his parents, Bobby was preceded in death by his aunt, Doris Bradley.

He loved building anything, especially furniture and model cars. He loved playing cards, NASCAR, and in his younger years, loved working on cars.

Bobby was a good father and is survived by his sons, Steven Perez and his fiancée Ashley and Brandon Phelps; and sister, Faye Bowman.

Memorials may be made to Soldiers' Angels, P.O. Box 96563, Washington, DC 20077-7550.

May 22, 1938 — February 13, 2023

January 22, 1934 — February 17, 2023

Harold Edward Auman, 84, passed away February 13, 2023 following a brief hospital stay.

He was born on May 22, 1938 to parents Virginia and Edward Auman in Randolph County, North Carolina. Being raised in the country, he liked to fish, hunt, and spend time in nature.

During his military service, he was stationed in Texas, Georgia, and maneuvered in Germany.

Upon his return, he combined his army fitness and passion for the outdoors to train as a wildlife law enforcement officer. He finished at the top of his class and worked as a game warden in the Great Smoky Mountains of North Carolina. He spent the rest of his career in security for General Motors in Ohio before returning to North Carolina in 1995.

In addition to his parents, Harold was preceded in death by his sister Laverne Williams, his brother Eugene Auman, and his brother-in-law Andy Hancock.

He is survived by his wife of over 50 years, Sammye Jo Auman; son Jeffrey Auman and wife Jody of Marietta, OH; daughter Dr. Heidi Auman, husband Jason Chitwood and 3 grandchildren Tabitha, Mitchell and Hope of San Francisco, CA; sister Louise Hancock of Asheboro; brother Danny Auman and wife Debbie of Asheboro; brother-in-law Bobby Williams and sister-in-law Cleo Auman; many loving nieces and nephews.

Harold loved his children and grandkids and took every opportunity to playfully teach them the ways of country living (such as how to craft a good hiking stick, recognize a Barred Owl call, or protect yourself from Water Moccasins) and foster their interests in history and sports, especially supporting Cleveland teams.

Vivian Hall Bean, 89, of Seagrove, passed away on February 17, 2023, at Hospice House of Randolph, surrounded by her family.

Vivian was born on January 22, 1934, in Stokes County to James and Stella Bennett Hall. She worked at General Electric and Black & Decker until they closed their doors. Then she worked at America's Roadhouse until she left to care for her husband until he passed away.

Vivian loved her family with her whole heart. Nothing made her happier than when they came to visit or when she went to watch her grandchildren play ball. Vivian loved her church family and friends and talking on the phone with them. She will be greatly missed.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ray Bean; brothers, Kenneth Hall, Vernon Hall (Sharon) and Garland Hall (Barbara).

She is survived by her sons, Donald Bean (Annette) and Darrell Bean (Deana); daughter, Amy Johnson (Mike); brothers, Nathan Hall and Winfred Hall; sisters, Sarah Heasley (Wayne) and Janice Edwards (Donnie) and sister in-in-law, Juanita Hall.

Grandchildren, Ivy Bean, Taylor Bean, Hayden Bean (Shanequa), Carson Bean (Kaity), Tucker Bean (Kerrie), Mack Johnson (Taylor), Ava Garner (Brandon), Sam Johnson, Elizabeth Johnson and Abby Johnson; great grandchild, Oaklynn Bean and, many nieces and nephews.

Cindy Joyce Barton

August 16, 1957 — February 12, 2023 Cindy Joyce Barton,65,of Troy, passed away on February 12, 2023 at First Health Moore Regional Hospital.

Cindy was born in Guilford County on August 16, 1957, to Warren and Ruth Moore Clodfelter. She was the Postmaster at Mt. Gilead Post Office and she loved picking up seashells, crocheting, and her family.

She is survived by her husband, Robert Barton of the home; daughter, Ashley Campbell Paya (Alexander) of Washington State; son, Stephen Ray Campbell Jr and grandson, Kadin Campbell.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made in Cindy's honor to the Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation.

Randolph Record for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

8

STATE & NATION

Congressional Budget Office projects higher unemployment, slow exit from inflation The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Congressional Budget Office said it expects the U.S. economy to stagnate this year with the unemployment rate jumping to 5.1% — a bleak outlook that was paired with a 10-year projection that publicly held U.S. debt would nearly double to $46.4 trillion in 2033.

The office’s updated 10-year Budget and Economic Outlook outlined stark expectations for the decade ahead, where Social Security would be unable to pay full benefits to recipients in 2032 — with a roughly 20 % reduction in benefits across the board — and the net interest costs on U.S. debt would eclipse what the nation spends on defense.

“The debt trajectory is unsustainable,” CBO director Phillip Swagel told journalists at a press conference after the report’s afternoon release. The CBO can’t tell Congress what to do, he said, “but at some point, something has to give — whether it’s on spending or revenue.”

The latest figures seemed to affirm the worst fears of many U.S. consumers and businesses. But in a reminder that the U.S. economy has seldom behaved as anticipated through the pandemic and its aftermath, the employment forecast looks very different from the pace of hiring so far this year.

The CBO estimated that just 108,000 jobs will be added in 2023, but employers added 517,000 jobs in January alone.

It also assumes that inflation will

AP PHOTO

An employee restocks meats at a grocery store on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023, in North Miami, Fla. ease from 6.4% to 4.8% this year, far more pessimistic than Federal Reserve officials who in December said inflation would fall to 3.5%.

The CBO separately pointed to the risks of not increasing the government’s legal borrowing authority, noting that the Treasury Department could exhaust its current “extraordinary measures” to keep the government running while President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy jostle over a deal.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen wrote to congressional leadership

last month, stating that her agency will use creative accounting measures to buy time until Congress can pass legislation that will either raise the nation’s $31.4 trillion borrowing authority or suspend it again for a period of time.

If tax receipts from this year’s filing season fall short of estimated amounts, the U.S. could hit its statutory debt ceiling earlier than July, according to the nonpartisan organization, which provides independent analyses of budget and economic issues to Congress.

Following the CBO issuing its

report, Senate Democrats reiterated their calls for Republicans to help pass legislation to increase the nation’s borrowing authority.

Then, they said, lawmakers could turn their attention to funding the government and addressing the solvency of Medicare and Social Security.

“We don’t want to cut benefits. We don’t want to privatize.

We don’t want to do the kinds of things that Republicans have talked about in that area,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said of Social Security.

“And we have some plans to make it solvent, which you’ll hear from down the road.”

Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee, said the report “paints a dire picture.”

“If we don’t get serious about reining in spending, reducing annual budget deficits and bringing down the debt, the country will end up spending more on interest payments than the programs that actually benefit Americans,” Grassley said.

The outlook warns about rising yearly budget deficits. In 2033, the CBO anticipates that the yearly shortfall in tax revenues relative to spending would exceed $2.85 trillion, more than double the deficit in 2022. Publicly held debt was roughly equal to U.S. gross domestic product in 2022, but it would climb to 118% of GDP by 2033.

The office says the biggest drivers of rising debt in relation to GDP are increasing interest costs and spending for Medicare and Social Security.

“Biden’s numerous bailouts and massive government expansion disguised as COVID relief has blown out spending and exacerbated our debt disaster,” said Rep. Jodey Arrington, the Republican chairman of the House Budget Committee. “House Republicans must rein-in the unbridled spending and restore fiscal sanity in Washington before it’s too late.”

One reason why the CBO expects a slowdown this year are the actions taken by the Fed. The U.S. central bank has been trying to reduce inflation by raising its benchmark interest rates. Earlier this month the Fed raised its key interest rate a quarter-point, its eighth hike since March of last year.

The CBO expects growth to pick up once the Fed has tamed inflation and pulls back on its benchmark rates.

Republicans to adopt loyalty pledge for debate participants

By Steve Peoples The Associated Press NEW YORK — Republican presidential candidates will be blocked from the debate stage this summer if they do not sign a pledge to support the GOP’s ultimate presidential nominee, according to draft language set to be adopted when the Republican National Committee meets next week.

The proposal sets up a potential clash with former President Donald Trump, who has raised the possibility of leaving the Republican Party and launching an independent candidacy if he does not win the GOP nomination outright. While RNC officials and Trump aides downplay that possibility, such a move could destroy the GOP’s White House aspirations in 2024 and raise existential questions about the party’s future.

“After the primary, it is imperative to the health and growth of our Republican Party, as well as the country, that we all come together and unite behind our nominee to defeat Joe Biden and the Democrats,” RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel said in a statement to The Associated Press when asked about the loyalty pledge.

As many as a dozen Republicans are expected to enter the 2024 presidential contest as the GOP braces for an all-out civil war in the months ahead.

Much of the party is eager to

AP PHOTO

The Republican National Committee logo is shown on the stage as crew members work at the North Charleston Coliseum, Jan. 13, 2016, in North Charleston, S.C., in advance of Fox Business Network Republican presidential debate. move past Trump and his divisive politics, but in reality, Republican leaders have few, if any, tools to control the former president given his popularity with the GOP’s most passionate voters. RNC leaders are hopeful that a loyalty pledge, while ultimately unenforceable, would generate some shared commitment to unity, albeit a fragile one, as the presidential primary season takes off.

A senior Trump aide could not say whether the former president would sign the pledge to support the eventual nominee but suggested privately that he plans to participate in the debates. Campaign spokesman Ste-

ven Cheung declined to answer the question directly as well.

“President Trump is the undisputed leader of the Republican Party and will be the nominee,” Cheung said. “There is nobody who can outmatch President Trump’s energy or the enthusiasm he receives from Americans of all backgrounds.”

Facing similar concerns in 2016, Trump signed a similar loyalty pledge that was not tied to debates, but he later reneged as the primary campaign became more contentious. At the very first Republican primary debate that year, Trump was the only candidate on stage who refused to commit to support-

ing the party’s eventual nominee unless it was him.

And just last December, Trump shared an article on social media encouraging him to seek a third-party bid to punish the GOP should Republican primary voters select another presidential nominee in 2024.

Meanwhile, there is no such threat on the Democratic side.

Virtually every Democrat thought to have presidential aspirations has already promised to unite behind President Joe Biden, assuming the 78-year-old Democrat follows through on his plan to seek a second term. Biden may face token resistance from a lower-profile intra-party rival — activist and author Marianne Williamson is exploring another White House bid, for example — but the Democratic president would face little pressure to appear on the debate stage before the fall of 2024 for the general election debates, should they occur.

The Republican loyalty pledge is among several provisions likely to be adopted as the RNC’s Temporary Standing Committee on Presidential Debates meets to determine the rules governing which candidates may participate in the GOP’s upcoming debate season — and which media networks will host the events.

The committee is considering between 10 and 12 debates to begin in late July at the Reagan Library in California or at the RNC’s summer meeting in Milwaukee, the host of

the GOP’s next national convention.

Committee officials are sorting through proposals from as many as 18 media companies eager to host a debate. They include major television networks like CNN, MSNBC and Fox and lower-profile conservative favorites like Newsmax, according to people directly involved in the process who spoke on the condition of anonymity to share internal discussions.

While the likes of CNN and NBC hosted Republican primary debates in 2016, Republican officials suggest it would be a mistake to assume they will be selected this time around given widespread disdain for the networks among the party’s base. Representatives from each network will pitch the RNC in person next Wednesday and Thursday.

While there are many moving pieces, GOP leaders are most concerned about the party’s ability to come together after what promises to be a divisive primary election season.

Dave Bossie, a former Trump aide and current RNC member leading the debate committee, noted that the committee is modeling its 2024 loyalty pledge after the 2016 pledge that every Republican candidate signed.

“All Republicans can agree that Joe Biden has been a disaster for America,” Bossie said. “Therefore, it should be easy for every candidate to pledge unity toward defeating the radical Biden administration.”

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VOLUME 7 ISSUE 52 | WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 22, 2023 | HOKE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM | SUBSCRIBE TODAY: 336-283-6305

HOKE COUNTY

COURTESY PHOTO

U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson and Moore County officials cut the ribbon on Hudson’s new office in Southern Pines.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Complaints result in drug investigation, two arrested Several formal complaints resulted in the investigation and search of a Raeford home this past Friday, resulting in the arrest of two individuals who were charged with multiple drug offenses. According to the Hoke County Sheriff’s Office, the complaints about criminal activities taking place at the home of 116 Cardinal Avenue allowed officers to seek and receive a search warrant. When deputies executed the search warrant on Friday, multiple suspects were found inside the home. Deputies found roughly 53 grams of marijuana, edible THC gummies, seven grams of suspected cocaine, 10 Tramadol prescription pills, and drug paraphernalia. Drkshan Maurice Glass was arrested and charged with possession with intent to sell/ deliver cocaine, possession with intent to sell/deliver schedule VI substance, possession with intent to sell/deliver a schedule IV controlled substance, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He is being held at the Hoke County Detention Center under a $100,000 secured bond.

Tiffany Darby was also arrested and charged with possession to sell/ deliver a scheduled IV controlled substance. She was given a $7,000 secured bond.

Fayetteville Dogwood Festival announces spring dates and headliners The beloved Spring Dogwood Festival, a non-profit, communityfocused organization committed to providing a variety of familycentered activities, is returning to Downtown Fayetteville this April 27 until April 30. This year, the festival has announced that Buckcherry and David Nail will headline the event, in addition to the usual rides, food vendors, shopping, and attractions. For a more detailed breakdown of the Spring Dogwood Festival schedule and additional information, please follow their social media pages or visit their website at https://www. thedogwoodfestival.com/newfolder.

5

20177 52016 $1.00

8

Hoke County Schools to pay retention bonus for bus drivers and monitors Board of Education submits bids for auditing services

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal RAEFORD — The Hoke County Board of Education met Tuesday, February 7, with a few contract matters on the agenda.

The board was presented with the option to renew a $27,750 contract with Anderson Smith and Wike, PLLC – who have been serving Hoke County Schools for 10 years – for auditing services for the 2022-23 school year.

“They specialize in school audits and currently audit 75 out of the 115 school districts within the state of North Carolina,” said Finance Officer Wannaa Chavis.

“The lead auditor has 30 years of experience in school auditing, and the second auditor that usually comes with him has 15 years of experience, and they normally have two other auditors with them as well. Last year one of those four members was a former finance officer with 30 years of experience.”

However, concerns arose among the board members over

the length of time that Hoke County Schools has been with a single auditor.

“I remember 10 years ago when we got with them, the auditor, Dale Smith, talked about how we shouldn’t have the same auditor for such a long period of time because you start developing relationships,” said board member Rosa McAllister-McRae. “You start getting to know one another, and I think at that time, we had had someone for about 30 years.

They talked about how it should be a five-year span, and then we should sort of move on.”

Beyond that, board member Keisha Gill brought up an ongoing issue the district had been having regarding overlapping payments for bus drivers and teacher assistants that many on the board felt the auditor should have caught.

“Regardless of what samples he was given, there should have been one sample in there that he was able to review because I’m just kind of curious why with the samples that were given to him, he didn’t catch any of that. As long as that went on, there should have been at least one sample that identified the issue there.”

Following those concerns, the board voted to direct the administrator to put out an RFP for auditing services to look for a replacement firm. Board member McAllister-McRae was the lone nay.

The board also approved the 2022-23 Summer Program Plan.

“The summer program plan is available for our students in grades 3 through 12 who passed the course but were not proficient on the end-of-grade or end-ofcourse assessments,” said Director of Testing and Accountability Melissa Ward. “So during the program, our students will receive remediation and be given the opportunities to be successful on the required state assessments. The program would begin after the instructional year, which would be June 2, and would conclude by June 29.”

After being tabled in their last meeting, the board was presented again with a potential contract with Global Teaching Partners, a third-party international teacher acquisition organization.

“It’s a cultural exchange program that is a three-year initial J-1 visa with the option to extend

State treasurer reacts to litigation filed over State Health Plan contract change

By A.P. Dillon North State Journal RALEIGH — As expected, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC has filed litigation paperwork over the change in the State Health Plan’s third-party administrator contract that was awarded to Aetna earlier this year.

Both Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC and UMR, Inc. filed protests over the decision to award the contract to Aetna, however, the State Health Plan’s Board of Trustees rejected the claims.

Per a statement from Folwell’s office, Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC has filed a request for a contested case hearing in the North Carolina Office of Administrative Hearings and a petition for judicial review in Durham County Superior Court in the matter.

“We are disappointed, but not surprised that these legal challenges were taken,” Folwell’s statement says. “We are looking forward to vigorously defending the unanimous decision of the State Health Plan Board of Trustees - consisting of members appointed by the governor, president pro-tempore of the Senate, speaker of the House, and the treasurer - to accept the recommendation of the Plan’s professional staff. We continue to be intently focused on the needs of our members who teach, protect and otherwise serve the people of North Carolina and taxpayers like them.”

All documents and filings related to the third-party administrator contract are available for public viewing via a portal on the State Health Plan’s website.

“We continue to be intently focused on the needs of our members who teach, protect and otherwise serve the people of North Carolina and taxpayers like them.”

State Treasurer Dale Folwell

for two years,” said Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources Shawn O’Connor. “Essentially, when we have teachers that are on J-1 visas, they will be here for five years. Now, we are coming to the end of a lot of our initial five-year commitments. So we are coming to a point where teachers are going back to their home countries because J-1 visas do come with a two-year criteria of being back in your home country residence before you can seek another visa.”

“The teachers that we get through this are teachers that are coming here knowing the North Carolina standards that they would be teaching in whatever their respective field would be.

They handle the licensure requirements, they do international background checks before anyone is even vetted to be offered on a roster for us to hire, and so there are a lot of benefits in working with a third party, most importantly that we’re not an issuer of visas ourselves as an organization.”

According to O’Connor, Hoke County Schools currently has 30 international faculty working at See BOE, page 2

North State Journal for Wednesday, January 18, 2023 North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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BOE from page 1 the actual number of students enrolled in school in Month 1 and Month 2 and whichever is greater is the number they used to determine if there will be a budget revision. Our actual ADM for month 1 was 8,498, and for Month Two, it was 8,665. Therefore the ADM for Month Two - 8,665 was used for our budget revision which is a difference of 423 students less than what was projected in our initial budget allotment.”

The difference accounts for about $804,520.52 in funding that will return to the state’s budget. According to Chavis, some of the differences in actual enrollment numbers can be attributed to an uptick

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in enrollment in charter schools.

Finally, the board approved a new partnership and contract with Global Teaching Partners for the acquisition of international teachers.

“This is a new organization that will be an international partnership that will sponsor our J-1 Visa teachers and international faculty, which was previously referred to as our visiting international faculty or VIF,” said Assistant Superintendent Shawn O’Connor.

According to O’Connor, Hoke County Schools currently has established partnerships with Participate (8 teachers in the district) and Education Partners Internationals (22 teachers), which are officially recognized cultural exchange programs by the US Department of

A weekly podcast getting to the facts across the state, around the world and at home HERE in Raeford, Hoke County, NC.

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State and provide J-1 Visas, mean- North Carolina and South Caroliing these teachers go through fed- na.

“We’re not just filling vacancies eral screening. These visas cover BOE 1 be extended for with these individuals,” O’Conthreefrom yearspage and can nor said. “The people that we have an additional two.

“The nine schools andother representing gotten, their attrition rate, which Some of the services eight thesecountries.

“Globalcover does the orientation they bring means they comeapproach back every year partners areinitial teaching expe- where people and thenprothey goand through kindtheir job, is so much don’t quit rience through reviews,RDU, educational will allow of like a audits, cultural boot camp of what in a publower than all of our other teachers. gram instructional andto expect stafffive years, lic school in not only North Carolina but the United behavioral interviews and obser- They typically staya their States.

They get them arranged with a driver’s license, are very effective vations, english language proficien- and a lot of them member living arrangements, how adaptiveto get their utilities up, are quality individteachers.set These cy assessments, cultural that has how insure a car, get a car, all those kinds of things uals who want to be here to teach nesstoassessments, state licensure so that by the time they start with us, they’re not worserved as Visa, the J-1 reviews, international background our kids, and with ried aboutand thosespecifically things.” years.” a bus checks, Global they’re here for fiveeither However,Partners the boardhelps had concerns program, Hoke County Schools currentTeaching providewith the namely the cost and the desire for domestic teachers. monitoremployor ly has 30 international specific NC teacher training.

For the first part, O’Connor explained in eight fact, different countries eesthat, from Global Teaching Partners, howa regular the would beResearch paying less international nine different schools. ever,district is located in the Tri- peracross yellow bus teacher thanina domestic one. and The Hoke County Board of Eduangle Park North Carolina, “The $17,500 [to Global driver during cationPArtners will next meet February 14. they do cost all ofistheir business only inTeaching for each hire], but we don’t pay full retirement for these individuals. We also don’t pay certain benefits for these the 2022-23 individuals. In the past, the way that this has worked academic out is that an international teacher may cost us just at the base pay, $52,000. And then we pay $17,500 to the year to company that pays for all that, which puts us at around receive a $69,000, but the state still reimburses that teacher pomaximum sition as if it is paying benefits, so the state reimburses as $74,000 or whatever it might be for that position. bonus So we’re not paying an extra $17,500 on top of what a allowance regular teacher in that position would make.”

However, the board still had big concerns over out- of $1,450.” sourcing teachers.

“We should try the best way possible to recruit here Dr. Chad Hunt in the states,” said Board Chair Angela Southerland.

“If we have this $17,500 available, maybe we should use that as a sign-on bonus or something, but we need to do something here in the states if we have people graduating from college. I think we should try here first. We have one contract [for international teachers] in place that’s already being negotiated, so I don’t think we need all of them right now. I think we should take this money and try to find someone here.”

After discussion, the motion for the contract failed.

Finally, the board approved a bus driver retention bonus for both regular and yellow bus drivers and bus monitors.

“The bonus is to show appreciation to these staff members for their hard work, dedication, and long hours that have been completed on a daily basis,” said Assistant Superintendent of Operations and Information Systems Dr. Chad Hunt. “The approach will allow a staff member that has served as either a bus monitor or a regular yellow bus driver during the 2022-23 academic year to receive a maximum bonus allowance of $1,450.”

“The bonus amount is determined by the number of hours that the staff member has contributed in the capacity of a bus monitor or bus driver,” Hunt continued. “If the staff member has worked in either capacity between 10 to 60 hours, the staff member will receive a $362.50 bonus. If they serve in that capacity between 61 and 120 hours, the staff member will receive $725. And if they serve in that capacity over 121 hours, that staff member will receive the full total of $1,450. The staff member would have served in this capacity in accumulation of these hours during this academic year from the first day of school through February 28, 2023. The bonus will be a one-time payment which will be paid on March 17, 2023. Under option one, the school system will incur an approximate total costJoin of $241,943.”

Our Facebook Page: The Roundtable Talk Podcast According to Hunt, there are currently about 97 bus drivers who qualify for the maximum bonus.

The Hoke County Board of Education will next meet March 14.

A weekly podcast getting to the facts across the state, around the world and at home HERE in Raeford, Hoke County, NC.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

OPINION

3

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

James Clapper can’t stop lying

The laptop lie began, as is often the case, with Adam Schiff, the California congressman who used the intelligence committee as a partisan disinfo clearinghouse.

IN AN INTERVIEW with The Washington Post’s “fact-checker,” former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper contends that Politico misled the public about a letter he and 50 other former intel officials signed during the 2020 presidential campaign warning that the New York Post’s Hunter Biden laptop story could be Russian deception. “There was message distortion,” Clapper tells The Washington Post. “All we were doing was raising a yellow flag that this could be Russian disinformation. Politico deliberately distorted what we said. It was clear in paragraph five.”

It was not clear, at all. The purpose of the letter, apparent then as it is now, was to discredit the Post’s scoop and provide Democrats and the media with ammunition to reject it. Of course, intel officials couldn’t definitively say that Hunter’s emails, which implicated Joe Biden as a business partner, were concocted by Vladimir Putin’s spooks. They had no access to the laptop. The purpose was to enlist former intel chiefs to cast doubt on the story. A perfunctory CYA paragraph doesn’t change anything.

The laptop lie began, as is often the case, with Adam Schiff, the California congressman who used the intelligence committee as a partisan disinfo clearinghouse. As soon as the story broke, Schiff claimed that “we know” — a phrase he used numerous times — that the emails had been planted by the Kremlin. By then, though, everyone understood the congressman was an irredeemable liar. The director of national intelligence, John Ratcliffe, issued a statement stressing that, actually, there was no evidence to back Schiff’s claims.

That’s when Politico reported that more than 50 former senior intelligence officials had signed a letter asserting that the laptop “has all the classic earmarks of a Russian information operation.” The most notable signees were Clapper, a man who ran a domestic surveillance program and then lied about it to Congress, and former CIA director John Brennan, a man who once oversaw an operation of illegal spying on a Senate staffer, and then also lied about it to the American people.

The letter worked exactly as intended. “Look,” Biden said during the last 2020 presidential debate when asked about the laptop, “there are 50 former national intelligence folks who said that what he’s accusing me of is a Russian plan.” On “60 Minutes,” Biden called the story “disinformation from the Russians.” Clapper tells The Washington Post that he had absolutely no idea how the former vice president had framed the contents of the letter — which is, to be generous, implausible nonsense.

If Clapper’s letter was merely a good-faith warning, then why didn’t any of the other signees push back against Biden’s contention during their numerous television appearances? Did none of them watch the

presidential debates? Why didn’t Clapper send a follow-up statement clarifying his position after the Politico headline purportedly “distorted” the letter? Did he not see the piece until now — just as Republicans are about to investigate?

All the Post’s pedantic “fact check” does is offer the signees, and itself, cover. The Washington Post excuses the media’s (ongoing) suppression of the Hunter Biden story by arguing that the “leak of emails from the Democratic National Committee and Clinton campaign chairman John Podesta,” which “may have contributed to Donald Trump’s unexpected victory in 2016,” made journalists extra cautious about relaying uncorroborated information. That contention is gravely undercut by the hundreds of pieces and columns the Post ran based on the Democratic oppo research that contained what was almost surely Russian disinformation. Any skeptical journalist would have also immediately identified the letter, and the Politico piece, as a nakedly partisan attempt to undermine the legitimacy of a story.

Indeed, the New York Post’s Hunter story had far more substantiation than any of the histrionic Russia-collusion pieces that the public was subjected to during the Trump years. The Post detailed how it came into possession of its evidence. It interviewed the owner of the Delaware computer shop where Hunter had abandoned his laptop. It provided Hunter’s signature on a receipt. The Post had on-the-record sources with intimate knowledge of Hunter’s business dealings. They had onthe-record interviews with people who claimed to have interactions with the presidential candidate — incidents we now know Biden had lied about for years. And later, the emails were authenticated by forensic specialists at other outlets, as well.

Virtually the entire censorious journalistic establishment, including The Washington Post, with the help of tech giants and former spooks, limited the story’s exposure by either banning it outright as disinformation, creating the impression that it didn’t meet proper journalistic standards or implying that it had been planted by Russians.

The media wasn’t going to allow another Hillary Clinton-like scandal to sink the prospects of a Democrat. And Clapper played a big part in that deception.

David Harsanyi is a senior editor at The Federalist. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of five books — the most recent, “Eurotrash: Why America Must Reject the Failed Ideas of a Dying Continent.”

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

Young Americans are losing their minds.

The social left is to blame.

The answer to five decades of social Leftism resulting in two generations unmoored from mental health is... more social Leftism!

THIS WEEK, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new data showing that our nation’s young girls are in a state of absolute emotional and mental crisis.

According to the CDC, 57% of high school girls said they were depressed in 2021, compared with 36% in 2011; 30% said they had considered suicide, compared with 19% in 2011. The numbers had also increased markedly for high school boys: 29% of high school boys reported depressive symptoms, up from 21% in 2011; 14% of high school boys had considered suicide, up from 13% a decade before.

Naturally, our nation’s pseudoscientific experts blame societal intolerance and lack of sexual sensitivity. Never mind the fact that more kids than ever are declaring themselves members of nonexistent identity groups (Demisexual! Gender nonbinary!), mistakenly self-diagnosing with Tourette’s syndrome or gender dysphoria, and claiming victimhood at the hands of a cruel society — a society that rewards and cheers all such claims. Never mind that we’ve now undergone a gender revolution in which we’ve declared biological sex itself passe, treated heterosexual norms as taboo and misogynistic and attempted to wipe away — along with actual sexual predation — much normal behavior in the name of #MeToo. No, says the CDC, the problem — as always — is with society’s demands. As The Wall Street Journal reports, the CDC recommends “teaching kids about sexual consent, managing emotions, and asking for what they need”; furthermore, “Schools should encourage gender and sexuality alliances, provide safe spaces and people for LGBTQ+ students to go to for support, and ensure enforcement of antiharassment policies.”

Yes, the answer to five decades of social Leftism resulting in two generations unmoored from mental health is... more social Leftism!

Or, alternatively, any society that attempts to destroy all rules, roles and intermediate institutions laden with traditional values will end up

abandoning its children — all in the name of tolerance and diversity. We have robbed young men of a sense of meaning: we’ve told them that they need not be providers, protectors or defenders, and that even aspiring to do so makes them bigoted remnants of the past. Instead, young men are told that they ought to relegate themselves to the role of “male feminists,” condemning their own “toxic masculinity” while shying away from the commitments that turn boys into men.

We have robbed young women of any sense of place, time or purpose: we’ve told them that they need not seek out a husband, aspire to bear and rear children or make preparations to build a home. Instead, we’ve told them that they can run from their own biology, declaring themselves boys rather than girls, delaying childbearing indefinitely, pursuing the things that are supposedly truly important: sexual license, more work hours, sipping wine at brunch with single friends.

We have done all of this because children do not lie at the top of our civilizational hierarchy: the interests of adults do. Increasingly, adults in the West see children as either a burden and thus avoid having them, or as validators of their own sense of subjective self-identity, requiring indoctrination into more liberal forms of social organization.

And now children are paying the price.

The social Left has been in control of virtually all levers of culture and policy for decades. Now they demand more control in order to alleviate the consequences of the chaos they have created. The answer, of course, is precisely the opposite: the reinvigoration of traditional sources of wisdom and values, the re-inculcation of morality and obligation. If our society does not quickly reverse field, the consequences for our young people will be utterly disastrous.

Ben Shapiro, 38, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

4

SPORTS SIDELINE REPORT

NFL

Bieniemy leaves Chiefs for OC role with Commanders Eric Bieniemy has agreed to be the Commanders’ offensive coordinator and assistant head coach. The team announced Saturday that the two-time Super Bowl-winning assistant with Kansas City will be joining Washington.

Bieniemy now gets the chance to show what he can do without Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes.

The 54-year-old emerged from a pool of more than a half-dozen candidates as Washington’s choice for the job following the Chiefs’ second championship in his five seasons as their offensive coordinator. The longtime NFL assistant has interviewed for numerous head coaching jobs.

NBA

Westbrook to sign with Clippers Los Angeles After being waived by the Jazz, Russell Westbrook is expected to sign with the Clippers. The nine-time All-Star will sign with the Clippers after completing a contract buyout on the remaining $47 million he is owed on his expiring deal.

Westbrook averaged 15.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 7.1 assists in 28.7 minutes per game during a rocky tenure with the Lakers. The move would reunite Westbrook with Paul George, his former teammate in Oklahoma City. George had lobbied for the Clippers to land Westbrook.

NHL

Blues trade O’Reilly, Acciari to Maple Leafs St. Louis The Blues are looking to the future after trading captain and center Ryan O’Reilly along with center Noel Acciari to the Maple Leafs on Friday night. St. Louis acquired Toronto’s 2023 first-round draft pick and 2024 second-round draft pick and Ottawa’s 2023 third-round pick from the Maple Leafs along with AHL forwards Mikhail Abramov and Adam Gaudette. The trade comes with St. Louis sitting eight points out of a playoff spot with a 26-25-3 record entering play Saturday.

The Blues traded forward Vladimir Tarasenko and defenseman Niko Mikkola to the Rangers on Feb. 9.

Dethroned King: Petty hurt as Johnson takes over race team The two living seven-time Cup champions are at odds over Johnson’s rebranding The Associated Press DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Richard Petty may still reign as NASCAR’s King, but with Jimmie Johnson wresting control of Petty’s old race team, he is definitively not the boss.

The Hall of Famer essentially has been stripped of power inside his former eponymous team that rapidly rebranded and rebuilt since November. Johnson and Petty are the only living seven-time NASCAR champions — and that appears to be where the similarities end inside Legacy Motor Club’s front office.

The 85-year-old Petty, who is officially Legacy’s ambassador, said Saturday he has bruised feelings and little say in the direction of the race team since Johnson bought into the ownership group.

“It’s been strange to me,” Petty said. “Most of the time, I ran the majority of the show. Jimmie brought all his people in. His way of running things and my way of running things are probably a little bit different. We probably agree on about 50% of what it really comes down to.”

Ahead of the Daytona 500, an

AP PHOTO

Former NASCAR driver Richard Petty, center, poses for a photo with Jimmie Johnson, left, and Erik Jones, right, at Daytona International Speedway last week. unfiltered Petty said he was irked

by Johnson’s rise in power. “Yes, it does” bother him, he said.

But Petty conceded it was “probably time for a change” because through several incarnations of his race team — the latest Petty GMS — his cars had never risen above the middle of the pack. GMS founder Maury Gallagher, chairman of Allegiant Air, purchased Richard Petty Motorsports in 2021 and Petty, whose 200 Cup wins as a driver are

a record, served as the front man.

Johnson told The Associated Press he was “disappointed” that Petty publicly expressed his displeasure, adding: “Of course, we’ll have conversations.”

“He’s not expressed them to me, for starters,” Johnson said. “Honestly, there are a lot of moving pieces to this. There are business decisions that are taking place between Mr. Gallagher and the Petty family before I ever arrived. Those are details

that are just not my place to say.

“But a lot of what Richard is speaking to is based on business decisions that he and his family have made and they aren’t relative to my involvement.”

One of Johnson’s first decisions: Strip the Petty name that dates in NASCAR to 1949.

“When Jimmie came in, it was going to be hard to be Johnson Petty GMS,” Petty said. “Jimmie’s thinking further ahead with his crew and came up with a new name.”

The Level Cross native remains NASCAR’s most recognizable personality, wearing his feathered Charlie 1 Horse hats, dark glasses and cowboy boots.

He’s never stopped signing autographs, making personal appearances or glad-handing sponsors, though even those responsibilities seem more uncertain under Johnson’s reign.

“They don’t take over the racing part, they take over the front office,” Petty said. “With sponsorships, appearances and all that stuff, Jimmie’s crowd is kind of controlling that. That’s something I never had to put up with, I guess.”

Petty did tip his hat to Johnson’s business acumen: Johnson’s connections with Gibson guitars and music industry relationships, including entertainment giant Live Nation, were instrumental in landing legendary rock band Guns N’ Roses on the hood of Erik Jones’ No. 43 Chevrolet.

“He’s basically going to wind up running the show in four or five years completely,” Petty said. “He’ll probably be the majority owner or the owner of our operation. They’re looking at things completely differently.”

Trea Turner settling in for long future in Philadelphia The former NC State infielder signed a $300 million contract with the Phillies during the offseason

The Associated Press CLEARWATER, Fla. — The past few years have been a bit of a whirlwind for Trea Turner. They included a World Series title in Washington, a trade to Los Angeles — and then an 11-year, $300 million contract that brought him back to the NL East.

The one constant amid all that: Turner has played with some pretty impressive teammates. And that’s not about to change.

“I’ve been on some really, really good teams with some great players — last year being one of them,” Turner, the former NC State standout, said Sunday. “That’s kind of the beauty and the difficult thing about baseball. The best teams don’t always win. Just because we got a lot of talent in here and a lot of good guys, and they made it to the World Series last year, doesn’t mean it’s going to happen again.

You’ve got to put in the work.”

The Phillies seemed to understand that this offseason. Yes, they won the National League pennant last year, but they were also an 87win wild card appearing in the postseason for the first time in over a decade. And Philadelphia shares a division with teams in Atlanta and New York that appear formidable for the foreseeable future.

Signing Turner, a 29-year-old

AP PHOTO

Phillies shortstop Trea Turner smiles during a spring training workout last Friday in Clearwater, Florida. shortstop who has been an AllStar the past two years, showed the Phillies are willing to stay aggressive, too.

It also gave Turner some stability. Washington declined quickly after winning the World Series in 2019. The Nationals eventually dealt both Turner and Max Scherzer to the Dodgers two seasons later. That put Turner right back in the postseason for a couple years.

All that moving — plus a pan-

demic and a lockout that created doubts about whether baseball would be played at all — could wear on anyone. But now Turner has a long-term deal with another strong team.

“That’s something that me, my wife and my family wanted, was just, not have to rent anymore, not have to move around, not have to worry about getting traded,” he said. “A lot of guys, probably overwhelming majority, don’t get to choose where they get to play for

their career. Luckily enough, I was in a situation where I could pick.

I’m stuck here, and nobody can tell me otherwise, so I think I’m really happy about that, that security.”

Turner’s deal included a full notrade provision.

In Philadelphia’s clubhouse at spring training, Turner’s locker is right next to Bryce Harper’s. The two played together in Washington before Harper signed with the Phillies before the 2019 season.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

5

With ‘Air,’ Affleck tells lesser-known Jordan story The film tells the story of the NBA superstar and Nike’s union The Associated Press SALT LAKE CITY — Ben Affleck was 12 years old in 1984 and growing up in the Boston area.

The Celtics were NBA champions. The Red Sox and Patriots were respectable. The Bruins got swept in the first round of the playoffs.

And that also was when Nike was betting much of its future on Michael Jordan.

Part of that tale will be told in the upcoming film “Air,” which Affleck directed and stars in alongside Matt Damon, Viola Davis, Jason Bateman and more.

Affleck plays Nike co-founder Phil Knight, and Damon plays then-Nike executive Sonny Vaccaro — who was tasked with finding a way of saving what was then

the company’s fledgling basketball division.

Affleck did it with one key character absent: Jordan is not shown in the movie.

“What I wanted to try to accomplish was to have Michael Jordan have the effect in the story that he has in the world, which is that obviously the vast majority of people don’t know and have never met Michael Jordan — and yet they know about him, and they know what he means and they might talk about him,” Affleck said. “So, in a way, he’s like a presence that’s felt and discussed and everybody else around him is there. But you never see his face.”

Nike wound up signing Jordan — who had yet to play an NBA game — to a $2.5 million, fiveyear deal.

It was a huge gamble.

Spoiler alert, with apologies to the movie that gets released April 5: It worked out.

Jordan Brand generated $4.7

billion in revenue in 2021, the Jumpman logo is iconic, Nike has become one of the world’s most powerful and recognizable companies, and Jordan won six NBA championships, became a billionaire, and now owns the Charlotte Hornets.

And since most viewers will already know all those things, Affleck took on the challenge of telling lesser-known parts of the story.

“The movie has to do realistic, it has to do authentic, and it has to surprise the audience,” Affleck said. “Because if what happens is something that the audience can predict, even if they like it, they go along with it, it’s ordinary, it’s boring. It’s just not what I want to do.”

The trailer, released last week, is up to 6 million views. Affleck was at All-Star weekend to help promote Friday’s celebrity game, and ads for the film were shown on the jumbo scoreboards over

ROB GRAY | AP PHOTO

Actor, writer and director Ben Affleck addresses the media regarding his new movie “Air” during NBA All-Star weekend in Salt Lake City. the court.

Affleck said he has met with Jordan about the movie.

“Somebody asked me what you’re doing from Boston and

making a movie about the Chicago guy,” Affleck said in an interview with a number of media outlets. “Michael Jordan sort of transcends, I think, rivalry.”

Russian athletes stand on the podium during the medals ceremony for the men’s 50-kilometer cross-country race at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.

AP PHOTO

Nations: No clarity on neutrality, no Olympics for Russia The United States joined 34 nations in a statement about eligibility for athletes from the combative nation The Associated Press THE GOVERNMENTS of 35 nations released a statement Monday calling on the IOC to clarify the definition of “neutrality” as it seeks a way to allow Russian and Belarusian athletes back into international sports and, ultimately, next year’s Paris Olympics.

“As long as these fundamental issues and the substantial lack of clarity and concrete detail on a workable ‘neutrality’ model are

not addressed, we do not agree that Russian and Belarusian athletes should be allowed back into competition,” read the statement.

Among those signing the statement were officials from the United States, Britain, France, Canada and Germany. Those five countries brought nearly one-fifth of all athletes to the Tokyo Games in 2021.

Other countries that had suggested an Olympic boycott was possible if the war continues — such as Poland, Latvia, Lithuania and Denmark — also signed onto the statement, which did not go so far as to mention a boycott.

The statement was the product of a Feb. 10 summit in London between government leaders, who heard from Ukrainian President

Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Zelenskyy said Russia athletes had no place at the Paris Games as long as the country’s invasion of Ukraine continues.

The International Olympic Committee is trying to find a way to allow Russians into the Olympics, citing the opinion of United Nations human rights experts who believe Russians and Belarusians should not face discrimination simply for the passports they hold. The IOC wants competitors from those countries who have not supported the war to be able to compete as neutral athletes, with no symbols of their countries allowed.

Assistant Secretary of State Lee Satterfield signed the statement

on behalf of the United States. In a separate statement, she emphasized the need for the IOC to provide clarity on the definition of neutrality.

“The United States will continue to join a vast community of nations to hold Russia and Belarus — and the bad actors who dictate their actions — accountable for this brutal war,” Satterfield said. “Russia has proven, time and again, it has no regard for and is incapable of following the rules — in international sport and in international law.”

While acknowledging there was an argument for them to compete as neutral athletes, the government officials noted in the joint statement how closely sports and

politics are intertwined in Russia and Belarus. Russia invaded Ukraine a year ago Friday and Belarus has been Russia’s closest ally.

When the war started, the IOC recommended sports organizations bar Russians from competitions, labeling it as a measure for those athletes’ safety. That stance changed at the start of this year.

Last week, IOC president Thomas Bach said the IOC stood in solidarity with Ukraine’s athletes, but also that sports has to respect the human rights of all athletes.

“History will show who is doing more for peace. The ones who try to keep lines open, to communicate, or the ones who want to isolate or divide,” Bach said.

Monday’s statement, while calling for clarity from the IOC, said the quickest way for Russia to get back into the international sports scene would be “by ending the war they started.”

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North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

6

Democratic governor signs GOP-backed tax cut in Kentucky The Associated Press FRANKFORT, Ky. — Democratic Gov. Andy Beshear on Friday signed a Republican-backed tax cut bill, saying he hopes it provides relief for Kentuckians struggling with consumer prices amid stubbornly high inflation.

Beshear’s action on the measure — which will lower the state’s individual income tax rate — comes after the proposal drew Democratic opposition as it moved through the GOP-dominated legislature.

The governor, who is facing a tough reelection campaign this year in Republican-trending Kentucky, announced in a social media video that he was signing the tax cut measure.

“I hope as we get through this period where, again, groceries cost too much, that this helps everybody out there at least a little bit,” Beshear said.

The governor’s action ended days of suspense over whether he would sign or veto the measure.

A top Senate Republican openly dared the governor to veto the bill as the Senate debated the bill.

Responding to the governor’s bill-signing decision Friday, the state GOP accused Beshear of trying to take credit for Republican-backed policies.

“He has spent countless hours attacking Republicans for this policy approach and left the members of his own party out to dry on it,” the state Republican Party

AP PHOTO, FILE

The Kentucky state Capitol in Frankfort, Ky., is pictured on April 7, 2021. said in a statement. “What’s different between last year and this one?

There’s an election this November.”

For Republican lawmakers, the newly signed bill is another step toward achieving a long-running policy goal to phase out individual income taxes in Kentucky.

The measure signed by Beshear will lower the state’s individual income tax rate by a half-percentage point to 4%, effective Jan. 1, 2024.

It follows up on last year’s tax overhaul, which resulted in a reduction of the tax rate from 5% to 4.5% at the start of this year.

Beshear vetoed last year’s bill revamping portions of the state tax code. He objected to provisions that extended the sales tax to many more services. Republican lawmakers easily overrode his veto. As an alternative, the governor last year backed an unsuccess-

ful effort to temporarily cut the state sales tax rate to take some of the sting out of rising inflation that fueled higher consumer prices.

Beshear on Friday acknowledged that the deeper income tax cut could have potential “longterm repercussions” for funding state services. But he pointed to the state’s strong economy, which has fueled record-setting revenue collections, as justification for

signing the follow-up tax cut.

In January, state General Fund receipts rose 6.2% compared with the same month a year ago, state Budget Director John Hicks reported recently. General Fund collections have grown 5.8% for the first seven months of the current fiscal year, he said. The General Fund pays for most state services, including education, health care and public safety. Kentucky has set records for private-sector investments and job creation during Beshear’s tenure as governor.

Amid the economic growth, the Democratic governor has acknowledged the hardships that inflation has caused for Kentuckians.

He continued that message in his bill-signing announcement Friday.

“Things are tough out there,” Beshear said. “Inflation is real.

And while gas prices have come down, a grocery store bill is still way too high. And while this issue is temporary, it’s still going to last for some time into the foreseeable future, and our people need relief.”

Democratic lawmakers opposing the tax-cut measure said many Kentuckians won’t reap savings from the reduction. And they noted that last year’s legislation extended the state sales tax to more services, which they said created new tax burdens.

Beshear’s decision to sign the top GOP legislative priority comes as a dozen Republican candidates compete for their party’s nomination for governor in the May primary.

Beshear’s bid for a second term is drawing national attention to see if the popular incumbent can win again in the red state. Beshear has won praise for his responses to devastating tornadoes and flooding, as well as a string of economic development and infrastructure successes.

GOP opens another investigation of Afghanistan withdrawal The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Several Biden Cabinet members, including the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, received a letter Friday from House Republicans as they launched the second investigation into the chaotic U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., the chairman of the House Oversight Committee, sent a series of letters to senior leadership at the White House, Department of Defense, State Department and others requesting a tranche of documents related to the end of America’s longest war.

“The Biden Administration was tragically unprepared for the Afghanistan withdrawal and their decisions in the region directly resulted in a national security and humanitarian catastrophe,” Comer said in a statement. “Every relevant department and agency should be prepared to cooperate and provide all requested information.”

Republicans have been vowing to press President Joe Biden’s administration on what went wrong as the Taliban swept to power in Afghanistan in August 2021 and the U.S. left scores of Americans and thousands of Afghans who helped them over the years in grave danger. Now with the power of the gavel, GOP lawmakers are elevating that criticism into aggressive congressional oversight,

AP PHOTO

House Oversight Chairman Rep. James Comer, R-Ky., opens a House Committee on Oversight and Accountability hearing on the border, Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2023, in Washington, D.C. and on a topic that has been met with bipartisan support in the past.

In a statement, the State Department said that while it does not comment on congressional correspondence, the agency is committed to working with congressional committees.

“As of November 2022, the Department has provided more than 150 briefings to bipartisan Members and staff on Afghanistan policy since the withdrawal of U.S.

forces from Afghanistan,” the statement continued. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The letters Friday come nearly one month after Rep. Mike McCaul, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, opened his own investigation into the deadly withdrawal, requesting documents from Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

McCaul’s letter outlined a request for all communications

around the lead-up to pulling U.S. troops out of Afghanistan. He also made it clear that his committee, which has jurisdiction over the matter, also plans to investigate the after-effects of the withdrawal, including on the hundreds of thousands of Afghan allies left behind.

The Trump administration agreed late in its term to withdraw U.S. forces from Afghanistan in May 2021, with the former president saying in 2020, “Now it’s time for somebody else to do that work.” But Republicans are intent on reminding Americans that it was Biden who was in charge when the Taliban took over.

And the criticism over the issue began in a bipartisan manner, with several Democrat-led committees pledging to investigate what went wrong in the days and weeks after the withdrawal.

U.S. officials have said they were surprised by the quick collapse of the military and the government, prompting sharp congressional criticism of the intelligence community for failing to foresee it.

In a congressional hearing last spring, senators questioned whether there is a need to reform how intelligence agencies assess a foreign military’s will to fight.

Lawmakers pointed to two key examples: U.S. intelligence believed that the Kabul government would hold on for months against

the Taliban, and more recently believed that Ukraine’s forces would quickly fall to Russia’s invasion.

Both were wrong.

Military and defense leaders have said the Afghanistan collapse was built on years of missteps, as the U.S. struggled to find a successful way to train and equip Afghan forces.

Last year, a watchdog group concluded it was decisions by Trump and Biden to pull all U.S. troops out of Afghanistan that were key factors in the collapse of that nation’s military.

The report by the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction, or SIGAR, mirrors assertions made by senior Pentagon and military leaders in the aftermath of the withdrawal. Military leaders have made it clear that their recommendation was to leave about 2,500 U.S. troops in the country, but that plan was not approved.

In February 2020, the Trump administration signed an agreement with the Taliban in Doha, Qatar, in which the U.S. promised to fully withdraw its troops by May 2021. The Taliban committed to several conditions, including stopping attacks on American and coalition forces. The stated objective was to promote a peace negotiation between the Taliban and the Afghan government, but that diplomatic effort never gained traction before Biden took office in January 2022.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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N. Carolina congressman, senator Broyhill dies at 95 The Associated Press

Robin Christine McGarry

Eleanor Locklear April 15, 1943 ~ February 14, 2023

Mrs. Eleanor Locklear, of Shannon, NC went home to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Tuesday, February 14, 2023, at the age of 79.

Eleanor was born on April 15, 1943, to the late Wilson and Mary Cook.

She was preceded in death by her husband of almost 60 years, Marvin Locklear.

She was a beloved member of Praise and Worship Ministries of Red Springs, NC where she taught Sunday school for many years.

Eleanor is survived by her two children, David and Barbara Locklear.

August 8, 1959 ~ February 11, 2023 Robin Christine McGarry went to be with our Lord and Savior on February 11, 2023, in her home, at the age of 63.

Robin was born in Florida on August 08, 1959, and was the daughter of the late Thomas Haywood Ward and Linda Ward.

She was a member of Rockfish Church in Raeford, NC. She spent a lot of her spare time helping with church activities.

Robin was an amazing woman who brought joy to everyone she met.

She enjoyed helping people in need, and was a member of the community outreach.

She is survived by her husband, Robert McGarry; her mother, Linda Ward; her brother, Craig Ward and his wife Patty; her nephews, Cale Ward (Kelsey), and Nathan Ward (Kim) and daughter Sadie; her uncles Raymond Ward, Larry Hall (Alice), Gene Ward (Bonnie), John Eden (Donna) and daughter Hope Bates, Arnold Newton (Debbie) and son Justin Newton. Her cousin Clay Ward (Emmie) and daughter Mary Dempsey.

JIM BROYHILL, a longtime North Carolina Republican congressman who served briefly in the U.S. Senate to fill a vacancy before losing a bid to keep the job, died early Saturday at age 95, his family said.

Broyhill, a scion of the Broyhill Furniture business in the North Carolina foothills that brought jobs and prestige to the region, died at Arbor Acres retirement home in Winston-Salem, according to his son, Ed. He had suffered from congestive heart failure for years that worsened in recent months, his son said Saturday.

The moderate Republican served more than 23 years in the House. He was considered a reliable conservative who helped North Carolina turn into a competitive two-party state, particularly as the GOP made national gains in the 1980s with Ronald Reagan.

In a video interview in honor of receiving a state award in 2015, Broyhill recalled the dearth of Republicans on the first state ballot he filled out in 1948.

“I was determined that I’m going to do what I could to see if we could not develop a two-party system in our state,” Broyhill said.

“And I think I had a great deal to accomplish that, but with the help and the leadership of many other people.”

GOP Gov. Jim Martin appointed Broyhill to replace Republican Sen. John East when East died by suicide in June 1986.

Broyhill had already won the Senate GOP primary a month earlier against David Funderburk, who had the support of Sen. Jesse Helms’ national organization that backed hardline Republicans. East wasn’t seeking reelection due to medical issues.

The Senate appointment was viewed as an asset to help Broyhill in his fall general election against former Gov. Terry Sanford, a Democrat and outgoing Duke University president. Sanford narrowly defeated Broyhill in two elections that November — one to serve out the rest of 1986

and another for the next six years.

Expected initially to be a lowkey affair, the campaign took on the intensity of a modern, more divisive campaign. Reagan came to Charlotte to campaign for Broyhill. In a recent interview, Martin said he’s unsure whether appointing Broyhill to the Senate ultimately aided his campaign.

“He wasn’t able to spend as much time campaigning because he was intensely dependable on fulfilling his Senate duties,” Martin said.

Broyhill’s Capitol Hill career began with a surprising U.S. House victory in 1962.

When Democrats attempted to redraw the district of the lone Republican in the House delegation after the 1960 census in hopes of defeating him, the adjoining district became more Republican, according to a biography of Martin. That opened the door for Broyhill, who had worked at the family business for close to two decades, to upset Democratic incumbent Hugh Quincy Alexander.

While he never served in a Republican-controlled chamber until his Senate appointment, Broyhill flexed his political muscles for Republican presidential administrations in the House and built support for their agendas with Democrats.

In the interview highlighting his 2015 award, Broyhill recalled legislation he helped pass to create the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Broyhill’s family and others cited his efforts to create energy policies, and deregulate the telecommunications, pharmaceutical and trucking industries.

Frank Drendel, founder of coaxial cable producer CommScope based in Hickory, said on Saturday that Broyhill’s work to get a law passed in 1978 so that cable companies could connect their cables to other utility poles helped the cable industry soar.

Broyhill “set an example that sadly we don’t have much of today and that is to cross the aisle and come up with solutions that are nonpartisan,” said former

Glaxo Wellcome CEO Bob Ingram, a North Carolina resident who knew Broyhill while working in Washington. “He wanted to get to the best answer to solve problems.”

After his 1986 defeat, Broyhill served on North Carolina’s Economic Development Board. Martin later picked him to serve in his second-term Cabinet as commerce secretary, saying he had “impeccable connections with North Carolina industry.”

A native of Lenoir, James Thomas Broyhill graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1950, according to his official congressional biography. His father, J.E. Broyhill, began the family’s furniture dynasty in 1926 as the Lenoir Chair Company and was a well-known Republican in his own right.

“Jim added to that and made his contribution in a huge way as a member of Congress,” Martin said. “That family tradition has given an enormous boost to the Republican Party.” Ed Broyhill is now a Republican National Committee member.

Recently retired Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C., who was recruited

by Broyhill to run for Congress more than 30 years ago, said he would be remembered as “a gentlemen and a statesman,” and called him a “mentor and confidant.”

“I always knew I could trust his advice and counsel because he viewed everything through the lens of what’s best for the country,” Burr said.

Current Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper praised Broyhill on Saturday in a tweet for his commitment and service to the state.

The congressman was preceded in death by his son, Philip. In addition to Ed Broyhill, other survivors of Broyhill include his wife of 71 years, Louise R. Broyhill; his daughter, Marilyn Broyhill Beach of Winston-Salem; six grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Broyhill’s funeral will be Feb. 28 at Centenary United Methodist Church in Winston-Salem, with a graveside service later that day in Wilkes County.

President Ford talks with North Carolina Congressman Jim Broyhill, left, and Sen. Jesse Helms, center, during a Republican fund raising visit to Raleigh in this Nov. 14, 1975 photo.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

8

STATE & NATION Congressional Budget Office projects higher unemployment, slow exit from inflation The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Congressional Budget Office said it expects the U.S. economy to stagnate this year with the unemployment rate jumping to 5.1% — a bleak outlook that was paired with a 10-year projection that publicly held U.S. debt would nearly double to $46.4 trillion in 2033.

The office’s updated 10-year Budget and Economic Outlook outlined stark expectations for the decade ahead, where Social Security would be unable to pay full benefits to recipients in 2032 — with a roughly 20 % reduction in benefits across the board — and the net interest costs on U.S. debt would eclipse what the nation spends on defense.

“The debt trajectory is unsustainable,” CBO director Phillip Swagel told journalists at a press conference after the report’s afternoon release. The CBO can’t tell Congress what to do, he said, “but at some point, something has to give — whether it’s on spending or revenue.”

The latest figures seemed to affirm the worst fears of many U.S. consumers and businesses. But in a reminder that the U.S. economy has seldom behaved as anticipated through the pandemic and its aftermath, the employment forecast looks very different from the pace of hiring so far this year.

The CBO estimated that just 108,000 jobs will be added in 2023, but employers added 517,000 jobs in January alone.

It also assumes that inflation will

AP PHOTO

An employee restocks meats at a grocery store on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023, in North Miami, Fla. ease from 6.4% to 4.8% this year, far more pessimistic than Federal Reserve officials who in December said inflation would fall to 3.5%.

The CBO separately pointed to the risks of not increasing the government’s legal borrowing authority, noting that the Treasury Department could exhaust its current “extraordinary measures” to keep the government running while President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy jostle over a deal.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen wrote to congressional leadership

last month, stating that her agency will use creative accounting measures to buy time until Congress can pass legislation that will either raise the nation’s $31.4 trillion borrowing authority or suspend it again for a period of time.

If tax receipts from this year’s filing season fall short of estimated amounts, the U.S. could hit its statutory debt ceiling earlier than July, according to the nonpartisan organization, which provides independent analyses of budget and economic issues to Congress.

Following the CBO issuing its

report, Senate Democrats reiterated their calls for Republicans to help pass legislation to increase the nation’s borrowing authority.

Then, they said, lawmakers could turn their attention to funding the government and addressing the solvency of Medicare and Social Security.

“We don’t want to cut benefits. We don’t want to privatize.

We don’t want to do the kinds of things that Republicans have talked about in that area,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said of Social Security.

“And we have some plans to make it solvent, which you’ll hear from down the road.”

Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee, said the report “paints a dire picture.”

“If we don’t get serious about reining in spending, reducing annual budget deficits and bringing down the debt, the country will end up spending more on interest payments than the programs that actually benefit Americans,” Grassley said.

The outlook warns about rising yearly budget deficits. In 2033, the CBO anticipates that the yearly shortfall in tax revenues relative to spending would exceed $2.85 trillion, more than double the deficit in 2022. Publicly held debt was roughly equal to U.S. gross domestic product in 2022, but it would climb to 118% of GDP by 2033.

The office says the biggest drivers of rising debt in relation to GDP are increasing interest costs and spending for Medicare and Social Security.

“Biden’s numerous bailouts and massive government expansion disguised as COVID relief has blown out spending and exacerbated our debt disaster,” said Rep. Jodey Arrington, the Republican chairman of the House Budget Committee. “House Republicans must rein-in the unbridled spending and restore fiscal sanity in Washington before it’s too late.”

One reason why the CBO expects a slowdown this year are the actions taken by the Fed. The U.S. central bank has been trying to reduce inflation by raising its benchmark interest rates. Earlier this month the Fed raised its key interest rate a quarter-point, its eighth hike since March of last year.

The CBO expects growth to pick up once the Fed has tamed inflation and pulls back on its benchmark rates.

Republicans to adopt loyalty pledge for debate participants

By Steve Peoples The Associated Press NEW YORK — Republican presidential candidates will be blocked from the debate stage this summer if they do not sign a pledge to support the GOP’s ultimate presidential nominee, according to draft language set to be adopted when the Republican National Committee meets next week.

The proposal sets up a potential clash with former President Donald Trump, who has raised the possibility of leaving the Republican Party and launching an independent candidacy if he does not win the GOP nomination outright. While RNC officials and Trump aides downplay that possibility, such a move could destroy the GOP’s White House aspirations in 2024 and raise existential questions about the party’s future.

“After the primary, it is imperative to the health and growth of our Republican Party, as well as the country, that we all come together and unite behind our nominee to defeat Joe Biden and the Democrats,” RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel said in a statement to The Associated Press when asked about the loyalty pledge.

As many as a dozen Republicans are expected to enter the 2024 presidential contest as the GOP braces for an all-out civil war in the months ahead.

Much of the party is eager to

AP PHOTO

The Republican National Committee logo is shown on the stage as crew members work at the North Charleston Coliseum, Jan. 13, 2016, in North Charleston, S.C., in advance of Fox Business Network Republican presidential debate. move past Trump and his divisive politics, but in reality, Republican leaders have few, if any, tools to control the former president given his popularity with the GOP’s most passionate voters. RNC leaders are hopeful that a loyalty pledge, while ultimately unenforceable, would generate some shared commitment to unity, albeit a fragile one, as the presidential primary season takes off.

A senior Trump aide could not say whether the former president would sign the pledge to support the eventual nominee but suggested privately that he plans to participate in the debates. Campaign spokesman Ste-

ven Cheung declined to answer the question directly as well.

“President Trump is the undisputed leader of the Republican Party and will be the nominee,” Cheung said. “There is nobody who can outmatch President Trump’s energy or the enthusiasm he receives from Americans of all backgrounds.”

Facing similar concerns in 2016, Trump signed a similar loyalty pledge that was not tied to debates, but he later reneged as the primary campaign became more contentious. At the very first Republican primary debate that year, Trump was the only candidate on stage who refused to commit to support-

ing the party’s eventual nominee unless it was him.

And just last December, Trump shared an article on social media encouraging him to seek a third-party bid to punish the GOP should Republican primary voters select another presidential nominee in 2024.

Meanwhile, there is no such threat on the Democratic side.

Virtually every Democrat thought to have presidential aspirations has already promised to unite behind President Joe Biden, assuming the 78-year-old Democrat follows through on his plan to seek a second term. Biden may face token resistance from a lower-profile intra-party rival — activist and author Marianne Williamson is exploring another White House bid, for example — but the Democratic president would face little pressure to appear on the debate stage before the fall of 2024 for the general election debates, should they occur.

The Republican loyalty pledge is among several provisions likely to be adopted as the RNC’s Temporary Standing Committee on Presidential Debates meets to determine the rules governing which candidates may participate in the GOP’s upcoming debate season — and which media networks will host the events.

The committee is considering between 10 and 12 debates to begin in late July at the Reagan Library in California or at the RNC’s summer meeting in Milwaukee, the host of

the GOP’s next national convention.

Committee officials are sorting through proposals from as many as 18 media companies eager to host a debate. They include major television networks like CNN, MSNBC and Fox and lower-profile conservative favorites like Newsmax, according to people directly involved in the process who spoke on the condition of anonymity to share internal discussions.

While the likes of CNN and NBC hosted Republican primary debates in 2016, Republican officials suggest it would be a mistake to assume they will be selected this time around given widespread disdain for the networks among the party’s base. Representatives from each network will pitch the RNC in person next Wednesday and Thursday.

While there are many moving pieces, GOP leaders are most concerned about the party’s ability to come together after what promises to be a divisive primary election season.

Dave Bossie, a former Trump aide and current RNC member leading the debate committee, noted that the committee is modeling its 2024 loyalty pledge after the 2016 pledge that every Republican candidate signed.

“All Republicans can agree that Joe Biden has been a disaster for America,” Bossie said. “Therefore, it should be easy for every candidate to pledge unity toward defeating the radical Biden administration.”

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PHOTOS VIA AP

Left, President Ford talks with North Carolina Congressman Jim Broyhill, left, and Sen. Jesse Helms, center, during a Republican fund raising visit to Raleigh in this Nov. 14, 1975 photo. Right top, Rep. Jim Broyhill, R-N.C., addresses reporters at a Capitol Hill news conference, Sept. 21, 1985. Right bottom, the state seal is seen in front of the NCGA. Broyhill who served briefly in the Senate in the mid-1980s has died. The family of Jim Broyhill confirmed he died early Saturday, Feb. 18, 2023 in Winston-Salem at the age of 95.

WHAT’S HAPPENING Kernersville Little Theatre Presents “Seussical” February 24 March 5 Forsyth County Just in time for Dr. Seuss’ birthday celebrations, Kernersville Little Theatre (KLT) presents “Seussical” February 24 - March 5.

“Seussical” by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens is based on the works of Dr. Seuss, which weaves in 15 of his books, including familiar favorites such as Horton Hears a Who, The Cat in the Hat, Suitable for the youngest and oldest members of your family, Seussical is a fantastical, magical, feel-good musical that will keep everyone entertained.

“Seussical” is KLT”s annual Bring a Book to Life production, which supports providing books to students at Kernersville Elementary School, which is the host location for most of KLT’s productions. In addition to providing each student a book related to the show, the community theatre group performs during the school day for the entire student population.

Tickets for Seussical are available online at www. kltheatre.com or https:// kernersvillelittletheatre. thundertix.com/events/204333.

Advance ticket prices are $18 for adults, $16 for students/seniors, and $8 for children. Tickets are also available at the door during performances for $20 adults, $18 students/seniors, and $8 children.

KLT is a volunteer-driven, non-profit community theatre group producing 4 shows a year. The 2023 season, themed “Welcome to the Family!”also includes the previously produced “Proof” and “Arsenic and Old Lace,” as well as the upcoming “Into the Woods” (auditioning in April with performances in June.

NSJ

5

20177 52016 $1.00

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N. Carolina congressman, senator Broyhill dies at 95 The Associated Press JIM BROYHILL, a longtime North Carolina Republican congressman who served briefly in the U.S. Senate to fill a vacancy before losing a bid to keep the job, died early Saturday at age 95, his family said.

Broyhill, a scion of the Broyhill Furniture business in the North Carolina foothills that brought jobs and prestige to the region, died at Arbor Acres retirement home in Winston-Salem, according to his son, Ed. He had suffered from congestive heart failure for years that worsened in recent months, his son said Saturday.

The moderate Republican served more than 23 years in the House. He was considered a reliable conservative who helped North Carolina turn into a competitive two-party state, particularly as the GOP made national gains in the 1980s with Ronald

Reagan.

In a video interview in honor of receiving a state award in 2015, Broyhill recalled the dearth of Republicans on the first state ballot he filled out in 1948.

“I was determined that I’m going to do what I could to see if we could not develop a two-party system in our state,” Broyhill said. “And I think I had a great deal to accomplish that, but with the help and the leadership of many other people.”

GOP Gov. Jim Martin appointed Broyhill to replace Republican Sen. John East when East died by suicide in June 1986.

Broyhill had already won the Senate GOP primary a month earlier against David Funderburk, who had the support of Sen. Jesse Helms’ national organization that backed hardline Republicans. East wasn’t seeking reelection due to medical issues.

The Senate appointment was

Salem College Introduces Master of Health Administration Program Will hold Online Open House on March 2 Twin City Herald WINSTON-SALEM—Salem College is introducing a Master of Health Administration (MHA) degree program for fall 2023. Health Administration is an interdisciplinary field of expertise that focuses on the knowledge and skills necessary for the effective administration, management and leadership of health services delivery organizations.

Salem will offer an online open house explaining the new program on Thursday, March 2, 2023, at 6 p.m. Additional

information about the Master of Health Administration program and registration for the open house is available at salem. edu/mha.

“Demand for Master of Health Administration degrees continues to increase, and Salem has worked closely with industry leaders to build a program to prepare the next generation of health professionals,” said Dale Sanders, Director of the Master of Health Administration program at Salem College. “The demand for health administration mid-level leaders is expected to increase by more than 25 percent during the next 15 years as people transition out of healthcare as a result of attrition, retirement and

viewed as an asset to help Broyhill in his fall general election against former Gov. Terry Sanford, a Democrat and outgoing Duke University president. Sanford narrowly defeated Broyhill in two elections that November -- one to serve out the rest of 1986 and another for the next six years.

Expected initially to be a lowkey affair, the campaign took on the intensity of a modern, more divisive campaign. Reagan came to Charlotte to campaign for Broyhill. In a recent interview, Martin said he’s unsure whether appointing Broyhill to the Senate ultimately aided his campaign.

“He wasn’t able to spend as much time campaigning because he was intensely dependable on fulfilling his Senate duties,” Martin said.

Broyhill’s Capitol Hill career began with a surprising U.S. House victory in 1962.

When Democrats attempted

career shifts.

“With the anticipated expansion of healthcare services across all sectors, there is an increased need for dynamic and impactful leadership,” he said.

“To meet this growth and demand head-on, Salem College will launch its inaugural class of Master of Health Administration students in fall 2023. I encourage anyone who wants to find out more about the program to attend our online open house on March 2.”

The Master of Health Administration program’s curriculum will feature small class sizes that will allow for significant use of team-based activities as well as project-based assignments that engage students in real-world experiences. The program’s internship or capstone requirement will provide opportunities for students to identify, conceptualize, and execute a learning experience important to the student and relevant to the field of health administration.

See SALEM COLLEGE, page 2

to redraw the district of the lone Republican in the House delegation after the 1960 census in hopes of defeating him, the adjoining district became more Republican, according to a biography of Martin. That opened the door for Broyhill, who had worked at the family business for close to two decades, to upset Democratic incumbent Hugh Quincy Alexander.

While he never served in a Republican-controlled chamber until his Senate appointment, Broyhill flexed his political muscles for Republican presidential administrations in the House and built support for their agendas with Democrats.

In the interview highlighting his 2015 award, Broyhill recalled legislation he helped pass to create the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Broyhill’s family and others cited his efforts to create energy policies, and deregulate the telecommunications, pharmaceutical and trucking industries.

Frank Drendel, founder of coaxial cable producer CommScope based in Hickory, said on Saturday that Broyhill’s work to get a law passed in 1978 so that cable companies could conSee BROYHILL, page 2

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

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DEATH NOTICES

♦ Benjamin “Ben” Hastings Beeson, 39, of Clemmons, died February 16, 2023. ♦ Janice Long Billings, 84, of Winston-Salem, died February 15, 2023. ♦ Margaret Virginia Bowman, 81 of Winston-Salem, died February 15, 2023.

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BROYHILL from page 1

♦ Joann Willard Hester, 85, of Forsyth County, died February 15, 2023. ♦ Leon Lindsay Huls Jr. (Bill), 86, of WinstonSalem, died February 15, 2023.

WEEKLY CRIME LOG

♦ Betty Lee Moser Flynt, 91, of Winston-Salem, died February 16, 2023. ♦ Pomposa Janeth Fuentes, 65, of Winston-Salem, died February 17, 2023.

♦ William Monroe James, 83, of Davidson County, died February 16, 2023. ♦ Marlon L. Johnson, 79 of Clemmons, died February 18, 2023. ♦ Mazie Pruitt Matthews, 79, of Stokesdale, died February 18, 2023. ♦ McLean Mack Mitchell, 96, of Winston-Salem, died February 17, 2023. ♦ Peggy Lou Morris, 86, died February 17, 2023. ♦ Dairle Patterson Sr., 81, died February 16, 2023. ♦ Tracey L. Sheets, 54 of Mocksville, died February 17, 2023. ♦ Nancy Carroll Smith, 92 of Winston-Salem, died February 16, 2023. ♦ Nancy Ruth West Tuttle, 87, of Kernersville, died February 18, 2023.

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THIS WEEK, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new data showing that our nation’s young girls are in a state of absolute emotional and mental crisis.

According to the CDC, 57% of high school girls said they were depressed in 2021, compared with 36% in 2011; 30% said they had considered suicide, compared with 19% in 2011. The numbers had also increased markedly for high school boys: 29% of high school boys reported depressive symptoms, up from 21% in 2011; 14% of high school boys had considered suicide, up from 13% a decade before.

Naturally, our nation’s pseudoscientific experts blame societal intolerance and lack of sexual sensitivity. Never mind the fact that more kids than ever are declaring themselves members of nonexistent identity groups (Demisexual! Gender nonbinary!), mistakenly selfdiagnosing with Tourette’s syndrome or gender dysphoria, and claiming victimhood at the hands of a cruel society — a society that rewards and cheers all such claims. Never mind that we’ve now undergone a gender revolution in which we’ve declared biological sex itself passe, treated heterosexual norms as taboo and misogynistic and attempted to wipe away — along with actual sexual predation — much normal behavior in the name of #MeToo. No, says the CDC, the problem — as always — is with society’s demands. As The Wall Street Journal reports, the CDC recommends “teaching kids about sexual consent, managing emotions, and asking for what they need”; furthermore, “Schools should encourage gender and sexuality alliances, provide safe spaces and people for LGBTQ+ students to go to for support, and ensure enforcement of antiharassment policies.”

Yes, the answer to five decades of social Leftism resulting in two generations unmoored from mental health is... more social Leftism!

Or, alternatively, any society that attempts to destroy all rules, roles and intermediate institutions laden with

nect their cables to other utility poles helped the cable industry soar.

Broyhill “set an example that sadly we don’t have much of today and that is to cross the aisle and come up with solutions that are nonpartisan,” said former Glaxo Wellcome CEO Bob Ingram, a North Carolina resident who knew Broyhill while working in Washington. “He wanted to get to the best answer to solve problems.”

After his 1986 defeat, Broyhill served on North Carolina’s Economic Development Board.

Martin later picked him to serve in his second-term Cabinet as commerce secretary, saying he had “impeccable connections with North Carolina industry.”

♦ Senator James Thomas Broyhill, 95, of Forsyth County, died February 18, 2023.

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Young Americans are losing their minds.

The social left is to blame.

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THURSDAY

♦ AMOS, CHARLES EDWARD was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT ON FEMALE at 1902 QUEEN ST on 2/16/2023 ♦ BESS, DALE PATRICK was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT ON FEMALE at 201 N CHURCH ST on 2/17/2023 ♦ BROWN, JOHNNY LEE was arrested on a charge of WEAP-POSS BY FELON at 2444 SINK ST on 2/16/2023

A native of Lenoir, James Thomas Broyhill graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in 1950, according to his official congressional biography. His father, J.E. Broyhill, began the family’s furniture dynasty in 1926 as the Lenoir Chair Company and was a well-known Republican in his own right.

“Jim added to that and made his contribution in a huge way as a member of Congress,” Martin said. “That family tradition has given an enormous boost to the Republican Party.” Ed Broyhill is now a Republican National Committee member.

Recently retired Sen. Richard Burr, R-N.C., who was recruited by Broyhill to run for Congress more than 30 years ago, said he would be remembered as “a gentlemen and a

traditional values will end up abandoning its children — all in the name of tolerance and diversity. We have robbed young men of a sense of meaning: we’ve told them that they need not be providers, protectors or defenders, and that even aspiring to do so makes them bigoted remnants of the past. Instead, young men are told that they ought to relegate themselves to the role of “male feminists,” condemning their own “toxic masculinity” while shying away from the commitments that turn boys into men.

We have robbed young women of any sense of place, time or purpose: we’ve told them that they need not seek out a husband, aspire to bear and rear children or make preparations to build a home. Instead, we’ve told them that they can run from their own biology, declaring themselves boys rather than girls, delaying childbearing indefinitely, pursuing the things that are supposedly truly important: sexual license, more work hours, sipping wine at brunch with single friends.

We have done all of this because children do not lie at the top of our civilizational hierarchy: the interests of adults do. Increasingly, adults in the West see children as either a burden and thus avoid having them, or as validators of their own sense of subjective self-identity, requiring indoctrination into more liberal forms of social organization.

And now children are paying the price.

The social Left has been in control of virtually all levers of culture and policy for decades. Now they demand more control in order to alleviate the consequences of the chaos they have created. The answer, of course, is precisely the opposite: the reinvigoration of traditional sources of wisdom and values, the re-inculcation of morality and obligation. If our society does not quickly reverse field, the consequences for our young people will be utterly disastrous.

Ben Shapiro, 38, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

statesman,” and called him a “mentor and confidant.”

“I always knew I could trust his advice and counsel because he viewed everything through the lens of what’s best for the country,” Burr said.

Current Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper praised Broyhill on Saturday in a tweet for his commitment and service to the state.

The congressman was preceded in death by his son, Philip. In addition to Ed Broyhill, other survivors of Broyhill include his wife of 71 years, Louise R. Broyhill; his daughter, Marilyn Broyhill Beach of Winston-Salem; six grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Broyhill’s funeral will be Feb. 28 at Centenary United Methodist Church in Winston-Salem, with a graveside service later that day in Wilkes County.

90-95asd2 S&d Other Sched Ii (F), 3) 90-95asd2 S&d Other Sched Ii (F), 4) P/w/i/s/d Cocaine (F), 5) 90-95asd2 S&d Other Sched Ii (F), 6) 90-95asd2 S&d Other Sched Ii (F), 7) Drug Paraphernalia (M), 8) Attempt & Conspiracy (F), and 9) Attempt & Conspiracy (F), at 200 N Main St, Winston-salem, NC, on 2/15/2023 11:30.

SALEM COLLEGE from page 1 Features of Salem College’s Master of Health Administration program include: Fully online, cohort model One residency weekend Two years; six semesters (fall, spring, summer) “Building on Salem College’s more than 250 year history of educating women, our Master of Health Administration program will cultivate the next generation of culturally proficient health administration leaders,” Sanders added. “Salem graduates will be fully prepared to address the complexities of health, healthcare and the factors that affect quality health for all.”

on a charge of INTERFERENCE W/ ELECTRONIC MONITORING DEV at 100 W FIFTH ST on 2/17/2023 ♦ Hughes, Cory Alexander (M/26) Arrest on chrg of 1) Probation Violation (M), 2) Ofa/ fta-speed Competition (M), and 3) Ofa/ fta-misdemeanor Probation Violation (M), at 200 N Main St, Winston-salem, NC, on 2/15/2023 10:04.

♦ Goins, Kane Mayson (M/20) Arrest on chrg of Ccw, M (M), at 899 Woodbriar Path/heatherton Ln, Rural Hall, NC, on 2/16/2023 15:22.

♦ JOHNSON, KENDU MICHAEL was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT ON FEMALE at 675 N MAIN ST on 2/16/2023

♦ GRAYKERNS, LONDON ISAIAH was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT INFLICTING SERIOUS BODILY INJURY at 3000 NORTHWOOD DR on 2/15/2023

♦ King, Bryant Kensily (M/35) Arrest on chrg of Assault On Female (M), at 6320 Amp Dr, Clemmons, NC, on 2/16/2023 19:15.

♦ CALLEJA, ADILENE MEDINA was arrested on a charge of CHILD ABUSE at 3047 GILMER AV on 2/15/2023

♦ GUTHRIE, DESHAWN ANTWAN was arrested on a charge of 2ND DEGREE TRESPASS at 900 WAUGHTOWN ST on 2/16/2023

♦ Lilly, Travis Jemell (M/33) Arrest on chrg of Fugitive Arrest (magistrate`s Order) (F), at 4260 Brownsboro Rd, Winston-salem, NC, on 2/15/2023 13:00.

♦ DAVIS, JOHORDAN DEMORRIS was arrested on a charge of ASSAULT ON FEMALE at 301 MEDICAL CENTER BV on 2/17/2023

♦ HACKNEY, ALVIS VIOTIS was arrested on a charge of AID AND ABET LARCENY ($1,000 OR LESS)at 239 W FOURTH ST/ PARK VISTA LN on 2/19/2023

♦ Mittman, Jermaine Alexander (M/41) Arrest on chrg of Fugitive (F), at 201 N Church St, Winston Salem, NC, on 2/17/2023 08:20.

♦ DUNKLEY, KAYLA SIMONE was arrested on a charge of RESISTING ARREST at 2115 PETERS CREEK PW on 2/15/2023

♦ Hall, Thomas (M/57) Arrest on chrg of 1) Fail To Register - Sex Offender Registration (F) and 2) Sex Offender Residency Violations (F), at 301 N Church St, Winston-salem, NC, on 2/17/2023 15:00.

♦ MORALES, EDWIN ESTUARDO was arrested on a charge of VIO. PROTECTIVE ORDER BY COURTS ANOTHER STATE/ INDIAN TRIBE at 3705 POPLAR VALLEY LN on 2/17/2023

♦ BRYANT, CHAMARAY DEVON was arrested on a charge of 2ND DEGREE TRESPASS at 1600 N LIBERTY ST on 2/19/2023 ♦ BURKS, SUMMER JADE was arrested on a charge of CHILD ABUSE at 3411 OLD VINEYARD RD on 2/19/2023

♦ Dunlap, Timothy Dewaun (M/37) Arrest on chrg of 1) Weap-poss By Felon (F), 2) Ccw (M), 3) Fail To Appear/compl (F), 4) Fail To Appear/compl (F), 5) Fail To Appear/compl (F), 6) Ofa-fta-habitual Felon (M), 7) Ofa-fta-felony Possession Of Stolen Goods (M), and 8) Ofa-ftapossession Of Firearm By Felon (M), at 3212 Old Greensboro Rd, Winston-salem, NC, on 2/15/2023 08:00. ♦ Gentry, Brandon Lamont (M/30) Arrest on chrg of 1) P/w/i/s/d Cocaine (F), 2)

♦ Hardison, Daniel Ryan (M/28) Arrest on chrg of Rec/poss Stole Mv, F (F), at 3 Village Pines Ln, Kernersville, NC, on 2/18/2023 13:15. ♦ HARDY, MARQUIS ISAIAH was arrested on a charge of ADW - INFLICT INJURY at 4374 OGBURN AV on 2/18/2023 ♦ HARRIS, QUAWONE LEWIS was arrested

♦ PERDUE, SABRINA NICOLE was arrested on a charge of CONCEALING MDSE at 5420 UNIVERSITY PW on 2/17/2023 ♦ PRIVETTE, BOBBY CHRISTOPHER was arrested on a charge of FRAUD-OBT PROPERTY at 101 SUMMIT SQUARE BV on 2/17/2023 ♦ RAMOS, JAMOORE DAYSHAWN was arrested on a charge of COMMUNICATE

THREATS at SB 52/WALTOWN ST on 2/19/2023 ♦ Reid, Raheine Devon (M/45) Arrest on chrg of 1) Fail To Register - Sex Offender Registration (F) and 2) Sex Offender Unlawfully On Premises. (F), at 5135 Ambercrest Dr, Winston-salem, NC, on 2/17/2023 10:16. ♦ SHIELDS, JOSHUA FRANKLIN was arrested on a charge of DISCH FA/OCC DWELL at 2501 GREENWICH RD on 2/18/2023 ♦ SIMMONS, SHANDI ALISE was arrested on a charge of 2ND DEGREE TRESPASS at 320 E HANES MILL RD on 2/16/2023 ♦ SINGLETARY, SHARNEKQUA SHARONDA was arrested on a charge of CHILD ABUSE (FELONY) at 1999 BLOOMDALE DR on 2/19/2023 ♦ Smith, Emmanuel William (M/20) Arrest on chrg of 1) Sale & Deliver Sched I (F), 2) Drug Paraphernalia (M), and 3) Resisting Arrest (M), at 799 West End Bv/glade St, Winston-salem, NC, on 2/16/2023 18:52. ♦ SNOW, ROBERT WAYNE was arrested on a charge of DRUGS-POSS SCHED II at 5034 RAVEN RD on 2/16/2023 ♦ SPRINGS, JECORI DENARD was arrested on a charge of ROBBERY at 201 N CHURCH ST on 2/15/2023 ♦ SUAREZ, JUAN JOSE was arrested on a charge of PROBATION VIOLATION at 201 N CHURCH ST on 2/19/2023 ♦ SUAREZ, JUAN JOSE was arrested on a charge of RESISTING ARREST at 2850 STOCKTON ST on 2/19/2023

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

SPORTS

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SIDELINE REPORT NFL

Bieniemy leaves Chiefs for OC role with Commanders Eric Bieniemy has agreed to be the Commanders’ offensive coordinator and assistant head coach. The team announced Saturday that the two-time Super Bowl-winning assistant with Kansas City will be joining Washington.

Bieniemy now gets the chance to show what he can do without Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes.

The 54-year-old emerged from a pool of more than a half-dozen candidates as Washington’s choice for the job following the Chiefs’ second championship in his five seasons as their offensive coordinator. The longtime NFL assistant has interviewed for numerous head coaching jobs.

NBA

Westbrook to sign with Clippers Los Angeles After being waived by the Jazz, Russell Westbrook is expected to sign with the Clippers. The nine-time All-Star will sign with the Clippers after completing a contract buyout on the remaining $47 million he is owed on his expiring deal.

Westbrook averaged 15.9 points, 7.4 rebounds and 7.1 assists in 28.7 minutes per game during a rocky tenure with the Lakers. The move would reunite Westbrook with Paul George, his former teammate in Oklahoma City. George had lobbied for the Clippers to land Westbrook.

NHL

Blues trade O’Reilly, Acciari to Maple Leafs St. Louis The Blues are looking to the future after trading captain and center Ryan O’Reilly along with center Noel Acciari to the Maple Leafs on Friday night. St. Louis acquired Toronto’s 2023 first-round draft pick and 2024 second-round draft pick and Ottawa’s 2023 third-round pick from the Maple Leafs along with AHL forwards Mikhail Abramov and Adam Gaudette. The trade comes with St. Louis sitting eight points out of a playoff spot with a 26-25-3 record entering play Saturday.

The Blues traded forward Vladimir Tarasenko and defenseman Niko Mikkola to the Rangers on Feb. 9.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL

UNLV freshman football player dies Las Vegas UNLV announced that defensive lineman Ryan Keeler died Monday. He was 20. No cause of death was given. Keeler, who is from Chicago, transferred to UNLV from Rutgers last year. He played in seven games as a redshirt freshman this past season, totaling eight tackles and a sack. Keeler, who made the academic All-Mountain West team, had a 3.80 GPA. “We are devastated to have lost a member of our Rebel family,” UNLV coach Barry Odom said in a statement.

AP PHOTO

Former NASCAR driver Richard Petty, center, poses for a photo with Jimmie Johnson, left, and Erik Jones, right, at Daytona International Speedway last week.

Dethroned King: Petty hurt as Johnson takes over race team The two living seven-time Cup champions are at odds over Johnson’s rebranding The Associated Press DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Richard Petty may still reign as NASCAR’s King, but with Jimmie Johnson wresting control of Petty’s old race team, he is definitively not the boss.

The Hall of Famer essentially has been stripped of power inside his former eponymous team that rapidly rebranded and rebuilt since November. Johnson and Petty are the only living seven-time NASCAR champions — and that appears to be where the similarities end inside Legacy Motor Club’s front office.

The 85-year-old Petty, who is officially Legacy’s ambassador, said Saturday he has bruised feelings and little say in the direction of the race team since Johnson bought into the ownership group.

“It’s been strange to me,” Petty said. “Most of the time, I ran the majority of the show. Jimmie brought all his people in. His way of running things and my way of running things are probably a little bit different. We probably agree on about 50% of what it really comes down to.”

Ahead of the Daytona 500, an unfiltered Petty said he was irked

by Johnson’s rise in power. “Yes, it does” bother him, he said.

But Petty conceded it was “probably time for a change” because through several incarnations of his race team — the latest Petty GMS — his cars had never risen above the middle of the pack. GMS founder Maury Gallagher, chairman of Allegiant Air, purchased Richard Petty Motorsports in 2021 and Petty, whose 200 Cup wins as a driver are a record, served as the front man.

Johnson told The Associated Press he was “disappointed” that Petty publicly expressed his displeasure, adding: “Of course, we’ll have conversations.”

“Jimmie’s thinking further ahead with his crew and came up with a new name.”

Richard Petty “He’s not expressed them to me, for starters,” Johnson said. “Honestly, there are a lot of moving pieces to this. There are business decisions that are taking place between Mr. Gallagher and the Petty family before I ever arrived. Those are details that are just not my place to say.

“But a lot of what Richard is speaking to is based on business decisions that he and his family have made and they aren’t relative to my involvement.”

One of Johnson’s first decisions: Strip the Petty name that dates in NASCAR to 1949.

“When Jimmie came in, it was

going to be hard to be Johnson Petty GMS,” Petty said. “Jimmie’s thinking further ahead with his crew and came up with a new name.”

The Level Cross native remains NASCAR’s most recognizable personality, wearing his feathered Charlie 1 Horse hats, dark glasses and cowboy boots. He’s never stopped signing autographs, making personal appearances or glad-handing sponsors, though even those responsibilities seem more uncertain under Johnson’s reign.

“They don’t take over the racing part, they take over the front office,” Petty said. “With sponsorships, appearances and all that stuff, Jimmie’s crowd is kind of controlling that. That’s something I never had to put up with, I guess.”

Petty did tip his hat to Johnson’s business acumen: Johnson’s connections with Gibson guitars and music industry relationships, including entertainment giant Live Nation, were instrumental in landing legendary rock band Guns N’ Roses on the hood of Erik Jones’ No. 43 Chevrolet.

“He’s basically going to wind up running the show in four or five years completely,” Petty said. “He’ll probably be the majority owner or the owner of our operation. They’re looking at things completely differently.”

Trea Turner settling in for long future in Philadelphia The former NC State infielder signed a $300 million contract with the Phillies during the offseason The Associated Press CLEARWATER, Fla. — The past few years have been a bit of a whirlwind for Trea Turner. They included a World Series title in Washington, a trade to Los Angeles — and then an 11-year, $300 million contract that brought him back to the NL East.

The one constant amid all that: Turner has played with some pretty impressive teammates. And that’s not about to change.

“I’ve been on some really, really good teams with some great players — last year being one of them,” Turner, the former NC State standout, said Sunday. “That’s kind of the beauty and the difficult thing about baseball. The best teams don’t always win. Just because we got a lot of talent in here and a lot of good guys, and they made it to the World Series last year, doesn’t mean it’s going to happen again.

You’ve got to put in the work.”

The Phillies seemed to understand that this offseason. Yes, they won the National League pennant last year, but they were also an 87win wild card appearing in the postseason for the first time in over a decade. And Philadelphia shares a division with teams in Atlanta and New York that appear formidable for the foreseeable future.

Signing Turner, a 29-year-old

AP PHOTO

Phillies shortstop Trea Turner smiles during a spring training workout last Friday in Clearwater, Florida. shortstop who has been an AllStar the past two years, showed the Phillies are willing to stay aggressive, too.

It also gave Turner some stability. Washington declined quickly after winning the World Series in 2019. The Nationals eventually dealt both Turner and Max Scherzer to the Dodgers two seasons later. That put Turner right back in the postseason for a couple years.

All that moving — plus a pan-

demic and a lockout that created doubts about whether baseball would be played at all — could wear on anyone. But now Turner has a long-term deal with another strong team.

“That’s something that me, my wife and my family wanted, was just, not have to rent anymore, not have to move around, not have to worry about getting traded,” he said. “A lot of guys, probably overwhelming majority, don’t get to choose where they get to play for

their career. Luckily enough, I was in a situation where I could pick.

I’m stuck here, and nobody can tell me otherwise, so I think I’m really happy about that, that security.”

Turner’s deal included a full notrade provision.

In Philadelphia’s clubhouse at spring training, Turner’s locker is right next to Bryce Harper’s. The two played together in Washington before Harper signed with the Phillies before the 2019 season.

Twin City Herald for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

4

STATE & NATION

Congressional Budget Office projects higher unemployment, slow exit from inflation The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Congressional Budget Office said it expects the U.S. economy to stagnate this year with the unemployment rate jumping to 5.1% — a bleak outlook that was paired with a 10-year projection that publicly held U.S. debt would nearly double to $46.4 trillion in 2033.

The office’s updated 10-year Budget and Economic Outlook outlined stark expectations for the decade ahead, where Social Security would be unable to pay full benefits to recipients in 2032 — with a roughly 20 % reduction in benefits across the board — and the net interest costs on U.S. debt would eclipse what the nation spends on defense.

“The debt trajectory is unsustainable,” CBO director Phillip Swagel told journalists at a press conference after the report’s afternoon release. The CBO can’t tell Congress what to do, he said, “but at some point, something has to give — whether it’s on spending or revenue.”

The latest figures seemed to affirm the worst fears of many U.S. consumers and businesses. But in a reminder that the U.S. economy has seldom behaved as anticipated through the pandemic and its aftermath, the employment forecast looks very different from the pace of hiring so far this year.

The CBO estimated that just 108,000 jobs will be added in 2023, but employers added 517,000 jobs in January alone.

It also assumes that inflation will

AP PHOTO

An employee restocks meats at a grocery store on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023, in North Miami, Fla. ease from 6.4% to 4.8% this year, far more pessimistic than Federal Reserve officials who in December said inflation would fall to 3.5%.

The CBO separately pointed to the risks of not increasing the government’s legal borrowing authority, noting that the Treasury Department could exhaust its current “extraordinary measures” to keep the government running while President Joe Biden and House Speaker Kevin McCarthy jostle over a deal.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen wrote to congressional leadership

last month, stating that her agency will use creative accounting measures to buy time until Congress can pass legislation that will either raise the nation’s $31.4 trillion borrowing authority or suspend it again for a period of time.

If tax receipts from this year’s filing season fall short of estimated amounts, the U.S. could hit its statutory debt ceiling earlier than July, according to the nonpartisan organization, which provides independent analyses of budget and economic issues to Congress.

Following the CBO issuing its

report, Senate Democrats reiterated their calls for Republicans to help pass legislation to increase the nation’s borrowing authority.

Then, they said, lawmakers could turn their attention to funding the government and addressing the solvency of Medicare and Social Security.

“We don’t want to cut benefits. We don’t want to privatize.

We don’t want to do the kinds of things that Republicans have talked about in that area,” Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said of Social Security.

“And we have some plans to make it solvent, which you’ll hear from down the road.”

Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa, ranking member of the Senate Budget Committee, said the report “paints a dire picture.”

“If we don’t get serious about reining in spending, reducing annual budget deficits and bringing down the debt, the country will end up spending more on interest payments than the programs that actually benefit Americans,” Grassley said.

The outlook warns about rising yearly budget deficits. In 2033, the CBO anticipates that the yearly shortfall in tax revenues relative to spending would exceed $2.85 trillion, more than double the deficit in 2022. Publicly held debt was roughly equal to U.S. gross domestic product in 2022, but it would climb to 118% of GDP by 2033.

The office says the biggest drivers of rising debt in relation to GDP are increasing interest costs and spending for Medicare and Social Security.

“Biden’s numerous bailouts and massive government expansion disguised as COVID relief has blown out spending and exacerbated our debt disaster,” said Rep. Jodey Arrington, the Republican chairman of the House Budget Committee. “House Republicans must rein-in the unbridled spending and restore fiscal sanity in Washington before it’s too late.”

One reason why the CBO expects a slowdown this year are the actions taken by the Fed. The U.S. central bank has been trying to reduce inflation by raising its benchmark interest rates. Earlier this month the Fed raised its key interest rate a quarter-point, its eighth hike since March of last year.

The CBO expects growth to pick up once the Fed has tamed inflation and pulls back on its benchmark rates.

Republicans to adopt loyalty pledge for debate participants

By Steve Peoples The Associated Press NEW YORK — Republican presidential candidates will be blocked from the debate stage this summer if they do not sign a pledge to support the GOP’s ultimate presidential nominee, according to draft language set to be adopted when the Republican National Committee meets next week.

The proposal sets up a potential clash with former President Donald Trump, who has raised the possibility of leaving the Republican Party and launching an independent candidacy if he does not win the GOP nomination outright. While RNC officials and Trump aides downplay that possibility, such a move could destroy the GOP’s White House aspirations in 2024 and raise existential questions about the party’s future.

“After the primary, it is imperative to the health and growth of our Republican Party, as well as the country, that we all come together and unite behind our nominee to defeat Joe Biden and the Democrats,” RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel said in a statement to The Associated Press when asked about the loyalty pledge.

As many as a dozen Republicans are expected to enter the 2024 presidential contest as the GOP braces for an all-out civil war in the months ahead.

Much of the party is eager to

AP PHOTO

The Republican National Committee logo is shown on the stage as crew members work at the North Charleston Coliseum, Jan. 13, 2016, in North Charleston, S.C., in advance of Fox Business Network Republican presidential debate. move past Trump and his divisive politics, but in reality, Republican leaders have few, if any, tools to control the former president given his popularity with the GOP’s most passionate voters. RNC leaders are hopeful that a loyalty pledge, while ultimately unenforceable, would generate some shared commitment to unity, albeit a fragile one, as the presidential primary season takes off.

A senior Trump aide could not say whether the former president would sign the pledge to support the eventual nominee but suggested privately that he plans to participate in the debates. Campaign spokesman Ste-

ven Cheung declined to answer the question directly as well.

“President Trump is the undisputed leader of the Republican Party and will be the nominee,” Cheung said. “There is nobody who can outmatch President Trump’s energy or the enthusiasm he receives from Americans of all backgrounds.”

Facing similar concerns in 2016, Trump signed a similar loyalty pledge that was not tied to debates, but he later reneged as the primary campaign became more contentious. At the very first Republican primary debate that year, Trump was the only candidate on stage who refused to commit to support-

ing the party’s eventual nominee unless it was him.

And just last December, Trump shared an article on social media encouraging him to seek a third-party bid to punish the GOP should Republican primary voters select another presidential nominee in 2024.

Meanwhile, there is no such threat on the Democratic side.

Virtually every Democrat thought to have presidential aspirations has already promised to unite behind President Joe Biden, assuming the 78-year-old Democrat follows through on his plan to seek a second term. Biden may face token resistance from a lower-profile intra-party rival — activist and author Marianne Williamson is exploring another White House bid, for example — but the Democratic president would face little pressure to appear on the debate stage before the fall of 2024 for the general election debates, should they occur.

The Republican loyalty pledge is among several provisions likely to be adopted as the RNC’s Temporary Standing Committee on Presidential Debates meets to determine the rules governing which candidates may participate in the GOP’s upcoming debate season — and which media networks will host the events.

The committee is considering between 10 and 12 debates to begin in late July at the Reagan Library in California or at the RNC’s summer meeting in Milwaukee, the host of

the GOP’s next national convention.

Committee officials are sorting through proposals from as many as 18 media companies eager to host a debate. They include major television networks like CNN, MSNBC and Fox and lower-profile conservative favorites like Newsmax, according to people directly involved in the process who spoke on the condition of anonymity to share internal discussions.

While the likes of CNN and NBC hosted Republican primary debates in 2016, Republican officials suggest it would be a mistake to assume they will be selected this time around given widespread disdain for the networks among the party’s base. Representatives from each network will pitch the RNC in person next Wednesday and Thursday.

While there are many moving pieces, GOP leaders are most concerned about the party’s ability to come together after what promises to be a divisive primary election season.

Dave Bossie, a former Trump aide and current RNC member leading the debate committee, noted that the committee is modeling its 2024 loyalty pledge after the 2016 pledge that every Republican candidate signed.

“All Republicans can agree that Joe Biden has been a disaster for America,” Bossie said. “Therefore, it should be easy for every candidate to pledge unity toward defeating the radical Biden administration.”

Need Ammo?

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MOORE COUNTY Hudson opens flagship office in Southern Pines North State Journal

COURTESY PHOTO

U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson and Moore County officials cut the ribbon on Hudson’s new office in Southern Pines.

COUNTY NEWS Bulldog Pipe to expand with new Aberdeen facility Bulldog Pipe, LLC, a veteran and family-owned extrusion company that manufactures highdensity polyethylene piping for an array of industries, including telecommunications, power utility, electrical, oil, and gas, has officially chosen Aberdeen to be the location of its second manufacturing facility. Though initially basing their operation in Mountain Grove, Missouri, the owner of Bulldog Pipe, Brandon McIntosh, has decided to expand operations closer to his home here in Moore County.

The pipe company has leased a vacant industrial building on Taylor Street and plans to invest roughly $2.7 million and create 26 new full-time jobs in the area, with an average annual wage of roughly $50,000. If all goes well, Bulldog Pipe is expecting to hire an additional 29 full-time employees over the course of the next five years. Last Thursday, Governor Roy Cooper announced that the Town of Aberdeen would be awarded a $125,000 grant from the Building Reuse Grant Program to assist with the renovation of the new Bulldog Pipe location.

Aberdeen woman pleads guilty to child abuse and attempted murder Last Wednesday, Latajane Harrington appeared in front of the Moore County superior court and pled guilty to two counts of felony intentional child abuse and one count of attempted firstdegree murder. According to a press release from Moore County District Attorney Mike Hardinin, Harrington received a prison sentence of 12-15 years and five months. Harrington was initially arrested alongside her parents, all of whom lived in Aberdeen, on August 11, 2021. The three family members were arrested when Harrington’s infant son was admitted to FirstHealth Moore Regional Hospital with internal bleeding from the brain, skull fractures, and additional bodily injuries. All three family members lived in their home on Meadowfield Circle in Aberdeen at the time. Harrington’s parents were charged with negligent child abuse and obstruction of justice, though no details about the parent’s charges were mentioned in the recent press release.

SOUTHERN PINES — Moore County’s member of Congress now has his flagship district office located in Southern Pines.

U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony and open house for the 9th Congressional District’s newest office. Hudson, whose family moved to Southern Pines, is the first member of Congress to live and operate a primary office in Moore County in recent history.

“As your Congressman, I am committed to delivering results for families throughout our region and providing top-notch customer service from our offices in both Washington, D.C. and North Carolina,” said Rep. Hudson. “With our new primary district office here in Southern Pines, I look forward to helping more constituents navigate federal government agencies like the VA (Veteran’s Affairs) and being accessible to hear your needs, thoughts, and concerns on key issues facing our community and nation. Renee, Lane, and I have made Moore County our home and are thankful for the warm welcome by the community. We plan to be here for a long time.”

U.S. Rep. Hudson was joined at the open house by elected officials including Southern Pines Councilmembers Taylor Clem-

ent and Bill Pate, Moore County District Attorney Mike Hardin, Moore County Commissioner Jim Von Canon, Moore County Register of Deeds Bill Britton, Village of Pinehurst Mayor John Strickland, Village of Pinehurst Mayor Pro Tem Patrick Pizzella, Village of Pinehurst Treasurer Lydia Boesch, CEO of Moore County Chamber Linda Parsons, community leaders, members of local law enforcement, and local residents. The ceremony began with a prayer led by Dr. David Helms, the pastor of First Baptist Church in Southern Pines, where Rep. Hudson and his family attend church.

“We are really excited to have Rep. Hudson in Moore County, and we look forward to working with him,” said Moore County Commissioner Jim Von Canon. “At the end of the day, Richard always does what he says he will do, and we’re extremely excited to add him to our Moore County family.”

The office in Southern Pines is located at 340 Commerce Ave, Suite 16, Southern Pines, NC 28387, and is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment at the Southern Pines office, call (910) 910-1924.

In addition to the new office, U.S. Rep. Hudson also has office locations in Washington, D.C. and Fayetteville.

Board of Education approves pilot programs to help recruit and retain bus drivers MCS to seek input on transportation, school calendar

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal CAMERON — The Moore County Board of Education met Monday, February 13.

The board was given an update on the state of the school’s operations department by the new Executive Officer for Operations, Jenny Purvis, who had been in that position since January 3, following the leave of former executive officer John Birath. However, the presentation mainly focused on the transportation department.

“As we look at transportation, transportation is something I hear as I go from site to site, and I also hear from parents,” Purvis said.

“We’ve identified some issues and just want to be very transparent about those issues.”

“One of the main problems is poor communication. That’s communication between our transportation department and parents and our transportation department

and our schools, so we really identified the need to have good communication and increase that.”

Other areas identified were department efficiency, making the most out of what MCS has to offer, outdated mapping systems, incorrect information in systems, a need for creative solutions, and driver recruitment and retention.

Purvis listed a few positive steps forward – such as contracting a new mapping system, allowing additional paid time for drivers each week to go through potential communications, and posting to fill office vacancies – but she also stated that MCS would host three community input meetings planned for each area.

Area II will be on March 7 at Robbins Elementary from 6:30-8, Area I will be on March 14 at New Century MS from 6:30-8 and Area III will be on March 22 at Southern MS from 6:30-8.

“Returning Operational Excellence to Moore County Schools, whether it’s our bus transportation system, food service, maintenance, custodial, whatever, is a high priority for this board,” said Vice-Chair David Hensley.

Along with some of the other per month and have a cost estimate solutions, the board was presented anywhere, depending on hopefully with a School Bus Driver Recruit- if we recruit some more of our emment and Retention Proposal to be ployees to join that, that would be piloted through the remainder of an estimated cost from $36,000$50,000. the school year.

“These initiatives are real“The first [idea] is that our drivers who have perfect attendance ly about retaining our dedicateach month will receive a $50 bo- ed school bus drivers that show nus each month that they have per- up to work each day, transportfect attendance,” said Superinten- ing our students safely to and from dent Tim Locklair. “Many of our school. The initiative of dual emdrivers currently have this, I be- ployees is really about a strategy to lieve about 60, and that shows how show appreciation for our current dedicated they are, showing up ev- dual employees that drive a school ery day and driving those routes. bus route on top of their other duThey’d receive a $50 additional ties and to provide a recruitment bonus each month with their pay. initiative for other employees who We’d estimate that to be a cost im- currently hold a school bus drivers pact for the remainder of this year license or CDL to begin driving a route.” from $12,000-15,000.”

The board approved the pilot “Also, as part of this pilot proposal, we’d allot an additional $10 program, although Hensley recper day for drivers who are dual ommended that the school system employees, which means maybe should do more and proposed a 5% they’re a custodian at our schools bonus rather than the flat amounts. “[The pilot] is just a start,” Lockand also drive our buses, or maybe they work in our cafeterias or lair said in response. “Can we do are a teacher assistant,” continued more? Sure. We didn’t have the opLocklair. “We’d allot an addition- portunity to analyze [the impact of al $10 a day for divers that are dual a 5% bonus] this week, but that’s employees and that drive AM and PM routes. That would be $200 See BOE, page 2

Pinehurst Council approves changes to fees and charges schedules Council approves three new appoints to fill vacancies

By Ryan Henkel North State Journal PINEHURST — The Village of Pinehurst Council met Tuesday, February 14, with multiple appointments and fee schedule changes on the agenda.

The first two appointments that the council approved were to the Pinehurst Historic Preservation Commission.

“We have three vacancies currently on the Historic Preservation Commission,” said Village Manager Jeff Sanborn. “As is normally the case, we went through an interview process, and we have come up with two very high-quality candidates to fill two of those three positions.”

The voting panel presented two names to the council: Roxanne Vaitkus and Karl Ecker.

“We’ve lost three members, two of whom had legal experience, and so I felt in looking for new members that it would be important to have at least one person with legal experience,” said Historic Pres-

ervation Commission Chair John Taylor. “It turns out that of the four people we’ve interviewed so far, two of them had it, and so those are the two candidates that we are moving forward with. We still have two other candidates, plus a third that we have not interviewed yet, and we’d expect to be bringing forth a seventh nominee, hopefully in time for the March meeting. As we sit here tonight, we are down to four, which is the minimum we have to do business.”

The first appointment that the council approved was for Vaitkus.

“Historic preservation and restoration is really, really important,” Vaitkus said. “It’s what attracts tourists to the village, and it’s also what attracts residents to make an investment and become part of the community in Pinehurst. It’s what attracted my husband and I to Pinehurst 30 years ago. We had planned a golf trip from Chicago, and while my husband was on the golf course, I got lost wandering around the village on the curvilinear streets designed

by Ulmstead and was smitten with the cottages and the gardens and just the whole historic ambiance and aesthetic of the village.

Together both of us said someday we want to live in Pinehurst.”

While Ecker wasn’t present for the meeting, the council approved his appointment anyway in order to help bolster the commission.

“Roxanne’s primary legal experience was not necessarily always in real estate, but Karl’s really was,” Taylor said. “He’s done a number of things, and he’s worked in Washington DC before. I think it was a pretty unanimous feeling between the panel that Roxanne and Karl were the two strongest of the four candidates that we had interviewed at that point. Karl brought significant experience in real estate law and understanding all of the things in the intersection of HPC and COA requirements with zoning and all that. I think he was a very strong candidate.”

The council also formally approved the appointment of Dana Van Nostrand as the Village Finance Officer.

“My background began as a CPA working with KPMG as an auditor focusing primarily on higher education, state government, and other not-for-profit clients,” Van NosSee PINEHURST, page 2

5

20177 52016 $1.00

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North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

2 WEDNESDAY

2.22.23

“Join the conversation”

Neal Robbins Publisher Matt Mercer Editor in Chief Griffin Daughtry Local News Editor Cory Lavalette Sports Editor Frank Hill Senior Opinion Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor

PINEHURST, from page 1 trand said. “I have then–in the last eight and half years–worked for the College of New Jersey, which is a state-funded, public college in New Jersey. My responsibilities there focused primarily on budget, strategic planning in terms of supporting that through the budgeting process, financial reporting, running the audits, and my experience there will serve me well here.”

The council then approved changes to the Fees and Charges Schedule in order to better cover the Village’s costs associated with them.

For fire department fees, the first, second, third, and subsequent reinspections will be increased by 100%. So it will go from $50 to $100, from $100 to $200, and from $250 to $500. The fees associated with fire sprinklers and detection systems will have a $50

minimum. Re-review fees will have a 50% increase to $150, and for express plan reviews that are needed to be done in less than 48 hours, the new fee will be $250.

“That’s going to cover the costs of us having to go back and reinspect places time and time again because, right now, we aren’t really completely covering those costs,” said Assistant Village Manager Doug Willardson. “In total, these aren’t going to bring in a lot of money for the village, but it would be about $2,000 to $3,000.”

Other fee changes include a $50 fee for the new nonconforming use certificates for short-term rentals, solid waste fees for refuse totes will increase from $48 to $70, and the Fair Barn cost will increase by 20% overall for all fees.

Finally, the council approved two new sponsorship positions to help promote the hiring of police and firefighters.

“We’re having a lot of difficulty

in our recruitment of public safety folks, especially new and younger folks,” Sanborn said. “One of the things we’d like to do moving forward to try and bridge that gap is to take on the ability to hire fire and police cadets and then sponsor them through their academy experience. That way, they’re not needing to flip that bill themselves while trying to hold down another job or apply themselves. We think this might give us an edge moving forward.”

“I think it’s a very creative solution,” said Mayor John Strickland.

“There’s a growing concern across the state of attracting people at a young age, as early on as possible, into the police and fire departments. So, what we’re doing here is something that hopefully the state will embrace and hopefully find some additional assistance in the future.”

The Village of Pinehurst Council will next meet February 28.

ment for the 2024-25 School Calendar. The calendars will go out on March 15 to the public, and the responses will be brought back before the board on April 10.

“I am so hopeful that our general assembly steps up and stops this nonsensical requirement forcing North Carolina public schools to stand alone in the nation in carrying their fall semester over into January,” Hensley said. “Our students deserve, for their mental health and for suicide prevention, to be able to complete their midterms and tests and all the stress-

ful things at the end of the semester, and then drop their pencils, drop their backpacks and take a mental health break and enjoy the holiday break with their families and friends without the stress of having to return to school to still take their midterms and whatnot.”

“I know our delegation is working hard to make that happen for all of Moore County, if not all of North Carolina, so I’m hopeful that they’re successful because this is nonsensical.”

The Moore County Board of Education will next meet March 13.

Published each Wednesday as part of North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh, NC 27607 TO SUBSCRIBE: 336-283-6305 MOORE.NORTHSTATEJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $50.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Raleigh, N.C. and at additional mailing offices.

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BOE, from page 1 something that we would commit to bringing back before the school board before the beginning of next school year. Is there another more aggressive proposal that we would put out there, like a 5%, or would we potentially propose a wagescale adjustment that would incorporate whatever that cost impact would be into just paying our school bus drivers more per hour?

But this is just a pilot.”

Finally, the board approved an endorsement to gather public com-

moore

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

February 23 Friends of the Aberdeen Library Meeting 6pm The Friends of the Aberdeen Library will hold a meeting every 4th Thursday of the month at the Aberdeen Fire Department.

New members are always encouraged to attend and support the efforts!

Trivia Thursday at the Brewery 6pm Come out for Trivia at the Southern Pines Brewery!

Enjoy fun and prizes each Thursday. Southern Pines Brewing Company is located at 565 Air Tool Dr., Southern Pines, NC.

February 24 Moore County GOP Precinct Meetings Moore GOP Headquarters 211 Central Park Ave Suite, Pinehurst, NC 28374

Pinehurst A1, Pinehurst A2

Saturday, February 11th 10 am - Noon

Pinehurst 82, Pinehurst C, Seven Lakes, Taylortown, Westmoore Saturday, February 11th 1 pm - 3 pm

Eureka-Whlspering Pines, Carthage

Civil War Series

MOORE CITIZENS FOR FREEDOM

1pm – 2:30pm The Moore County Senior Enrichment Center is welcoming Dr. Matt Farina, who will be hosting a sixpart series on the American Civil War. The series will take place each Friday in January and February.

MOORE COUNTY Remember that we live in the best country, the best state, and by far the best county.

Live Music: Whiskey Pines 7pm

MOORE COUNTY, WHAT A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE!

Sunday, February 12th 2 pm - 4 pm

Pinehurst Bl, Bensalem, Cameron, DHR, Robbins Saturday, February 18th 10 am - Noon

TUNE INTO

February 26

The John and Maureen show

East Aberdeen, North Southern Pines, Pinebluff, Pinedene, South Southern Pines, West Aberdeen Saturday, February 18th 1 pm - 3 pm

Sipping on Sunday 2pm The Triangle Wine Company, located at 144 Brucewood Road in Southern Pines, is hosting Sipping on Sunday wine tastings! Wine down on your Sunday and enjoy sipping on a great selection!

Sundays

Eastwood, East Knollwood, Little River, Vass, West End, West

1 - 2PM

Knollwood Sunday, February 19th 2 pm

Come out to Hatchet Brewing Company in Southern Pines to listen to live music from Whiskey Pines! Hatchet Brewing is located at 490 SW Broad Street in Southern Pines.

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North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

OPINION

3

Neal Robbins, publisher | Frank Hill, senior opinion editor VISUAL VOICES

COLUMN | DAVID HARSANYI

James Clapper can’t stop lying

The laptop lie began, as is often the case, with Adam Schiff, the California congressman who used the intelligence committee as a partisan disinfo clearinghouse.

IN AN INTERVIEW with The Washington Post’s “fact-checker,” former Director of National Intelligence James Clapper contends that Politico misled the public about a letter he and 50 other former intel officials signed during the 2020 presidential campaign warning that the New York Post’s Hunter Biden laptop story could be Russian deception. “There was message distortion,” Clapper tells The Washington Post. “All we were doing was raising a yellow flag that this could be Russian disinformation. Politico deliberately distorted what we said. It was clear in paragraph five.”

It was not clear, at all. The purpose of the letter, apparent then as it is now, was to discredit the Post’s scoop and provide Democrats and the media with ammunition to reject it. Of course, intel officials couldn’t definitively say that Hunter’s emails, which implicated Joe Biden as a business partner, were concocted by Vladimir Putin’s spooks. They had no access to the laptop. The purpose was to enlist former intel chiefs to cast doubt on the story. A perfunctory CYA paragraph doesn’t change anything.

The laptop lie began, as is often the case, with Adam Schiff, the California congressman who used the intelligence committee as a partisan disinfo clearinghouse. As soon as the story broke, Schiff claimed that “we know” — a phrase he used numerous times — that the emails had been planted by the Kremlin. By then, though, everyone understood the congressman was an irredeemable liar. The director of national intelligence, John Ratcliffe, issued a statement stressing that, actually, there was no evidence to back Schiff’s claims.

That’s when Politico reported that more than 50 former senior intelligence officials had signed a letter asserting that the laptop “has all the classic earmarks of a Russian information operation.” The most notable signees were Clapper, a man who ran a domestic surveillance program and then lied about it to Congress, and former CIA director John Brennan, a man who once oversaw an operation of illegal spying on a Senate staffer, and then also lied about it to the American people.

The letter worked exactly as intended. “Look,” Biden said during the last 2020 presidential debate when asked about the laptop, “there are 50 former national intelligence folks who said that what he’s accusing me of is a Russian plan.” On “60 Minutes,” Biden called the story “disinformation from the Russians.” Clapper tells The Washington Post that he had absolutely no idea how the former vice president had framed the contents of the letter — which is, to be generous, implausible nonsense.

If Clapper’s letter was merely a good-faith warning, then why didn’t any of the other signees push back against Biden’s contention during their numerous television appearances? Did none of them watch the

presidential debates? Why didn’t Clapper send a follow-up statement clarifying his position after the Politico headline purportedly “distorted” the letter? Did he not see the piece until now — just as Republicans are about to investigate?

All the Post’s pedantic “fact check” does is offer the signees, and itself, cover. The Washington Post excuses the media’s (ongoing) suppression of the Hunter Biden story by arguing that the “leak of emails from the Democratic National Committee and Clinton campaign chairman John Podesta,” which “may have contributed to Donald Trump’s unexpected victory in 2016,” made journalists extra cautious about relaying uncorroborated information. That contention is gravely undercut by the hundreds of pieces and columns the Post ran based on the Democratic oppo research that contained what was almost surely Russian disinformation. Any skeptical journalist would have also immediately identified the letter, and the Politico piece, as a nakedly partisan attempt to undermine the legitimacy of a story.

Indeed, the New York Post’s Hunter story had far more substantiation than any of the histrionic Russia-collusion pieces that the public was subjected to during the Trump years. The Post detailed how it came into possession of its evidence. It interviewed the owner of the Delaware computer shop where Hunter had abandoned his laptop. It provided Hunter’s signature on a receipt. The Post had on-the-record sources with intimate knowledge of Hunter’s business dealings. They had onthe-record interviews with people who claimed to have interactions with the presidential candidate — incidents we now know Biden had lied about for years. And later, the emails were authenticated by forensic specialists at other outlets, as well.

Virtually the entire censorious journalistic establishment, including The Washington Post, with the help of tech giants and former spooks, limited the story’s exposure by either banning it outright as disinformation, creating the impression that it didn’t meet proper journalistic standards or implying that it had been planted by Russians.

The media wasn’t going to allow another Hillary Clinton-like scandal to sink the prospects of a Democrat. And Clapper played a big part in that deception.

David Harsanyi is a senior editor at The Federalist. Harsanyi is a nationally syndicated columnist and author of five books — the most recent, “Eurotrash: Why America Must Reject the Failed Ideas of a Dying Continent.”

COLUMN | BEN SHAPIRO

Young Americans are losing their minds.

The social left is to blame.

The answer to five decades of social Leftism resulting in two generations unmoored from mental health is... more social Leftism!

THIS WEEK, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released new data showing that our nation’s young girls are in a state of absolute emotional and mental crisis.

According to the CDC, 57% of high school girls said they were depressed in 2021, compared with 36% in 2011; 30% said they had considered suicide, compared with 19% in 2011. The numbers had also increased markedly for high school boys: 29% of high school boys reported depressive symptoms, up from 21% in 2011; 14% of high school boys had considered suicide, up from 13% a decade before.

Naturally, our nation’s pseudoscientific experts blame societal intolerance and lack of sexual sensitivity. Never mind the fact that more kids than ever are declaring themselves members of nonexistent identity groups (Demisexual! Gender nonbinary!), mistakenly self-diagnosing with Tourette’s syndrome or gender dysphoria, and claiming victimhood at the hands of a cruel society — a society that rewards and cheers all such claims. Never mind that we’ve now undergone a gender revolution in which we’ve declared biological sex itself passe, treated heterosexual norms as taboo and misogynistic and attempted to wipe away — along with actual sexual predation — much normal behavior in the name of #MeToo. No, says the CDC, the problem — as always — is with society’s demands. As The Wall Street Journal reports, the CDC recommends “teaching kids about sexual consent, managing emotions, and asking for what they need”; furthermore, “Schools should encourage gender and sexuality alliances, provide safe spaces and people for LGBTQ+ students to go to for support, and ensure enforcement of antiharassment policies.”

Yes, the answer to five decades of social Leftism resulting in two generations unmoored from mental health is... more social Leftism!

Or, alternatively, any society that attempts to destroy all rules, roles and intermediate institutions laden with traditional values will end up

abandoning its children — all in the name of tolerance and diversity. We have robbed young men of a sense of meaning: we’ve told them that they need not be providers, protectors or defenders, and that even aspiring to do so makes them bigoted remnants of the past. Instead, young men are told that they ought to relegate themselves to the role of “male feminists,” condemning their own “toxic masculinity” while shying away from the commitments that turn boys into men.

We have robbed young women of any sense of place, time or purpose: we’ve told them that they need not seek out a husband, aspire to bear and rear children or make preparations to build a home. Instead, we’ve told them that they can run from their own biology, declaring themselves boys rather than girls, delaying childbearing indefinitely, pursuing the things that are supposedly truly important: sexual license, more work hours, sipping wine at brunch with single friends.

We have done all of this because children do not lie at the top of our civilizational hierarchy: the interests of adults do. Increasingly, adults in the West see children as either a burden and thus avoid having them, or as validators of their own sense of subjective self-identity, requiring indoctrination into more liberal forms of social organization.

And now children are paying the price.

The social Left has been in control of virtually all levers of culture and policy for decades. Now they demand more control in order to alleviate the consequences of the chaos they have created. The answer, of course, is precisely the opposite: the reinvigoration of traditional sources of wisdom and values, the re-inculcation of morality and obligation. If our society does not quickly reverse field, the consequences for our young people will be utterly disastrous.

Ben Shapiro, 38, is a graduate of UCLA and Harvard Law School, host of “The Ben Shapiro Show,” and co-founder of Daily Wire+.

North State Journal for Wednesday, February 22, 2023

4

obituaries

Josephine "Effie" Taylor Ellis

March 21, 1946 - February 18, 2023 Josephine “Effie” Taylor Ellis, 76, of Southern Pines passed away at her home on Saturday, February 18th.

Born in Providence, Rhode Island March 21, 1946, she was the daughter of the late Francis Taylor and the late Lesley Bogert Taylor.

Effie’s early years were divided between homes in Camden, SC and Newport, RI. In both locations, Effie’s main interests were her family, her dogs and her horses.

Effie is survived by her husband M. Nixon “Nick” Ellis, her children Andrew Chew Ellis (Catherine) and Sassy Ellis Riley (Kevin). She is survived by her sisters Topsy, Patsy and Beverley Taylor. She has a granddaughter, Taylor Cameron Ellis.

Audrey Mae Jeffers Pitts September 20, 1923 - February 13, 2023

Audrey Mae Jeffers Pitts, 99, of Pinehurst passed peacefully Monday, February 13th.

Born in Akron, OH, Sept. 20, 1923 she was the daughter of the late John Sterlie Jeffers and Essie A. Tozer Jeffers.

In the 1960’s she was heavily involved in advocating for her disabled son’s education. Audrey continued her own education at Cuyahoga Community College, and later Cleveland State University in 1973 with a BA in Sociology and Social Services.

Audrey was the wife of the late Delwin G. Pitts. She was the mother of Jeffrey Charles Pitts, Pamela Bander, husband Steven, and Keren Atkinson. She was the grandmother Matthew Bander, wife Laura and Chelsea Brooks Atkinson. She was the sister of the late Anita Jeffers, Dale Jeffers, and Arlene Jeffers Davis.

Gerald F. (Gerry) Prange

December 31, 1922 - February 13, 2023 Gerald F. (Gerry) Prange, age 100, of Pinehurst, NC, died on February 13th, 2023.

Gerry was born December 31, 1922 in Lancaster, PA to Pearl and H. Frank Prange.

Gerry married his high school sweetheart, Mary M. Winnerling, of Lancaster, PA, who passed away December 2012, after celebrating 69 years of marriage.

He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister June and Jack Collins. Gerry is survived by his daughter Judith Anne and Walter Havenstein of Pinehurst, NC daughter Carol Anne and JR Roscher of Pawley’s Island, SC, and a daughter Mary Elizabeth (Mollie) and Bruce Brenner of Lebanon, PA. He is also survived by grandson Walter and Mary Havenstein and great granddaughters Lindsey and Riley, grandson Ken and Amy Roscher and great grandsons John Michael and Sam, Grandson Zack and Emily Henderson and granddaughter Katie and Asher Langenfeld and great grandson Grayson. Gerald is also survived by his sister Janis and Ray Sylte and many nieces and nephews.

SPONSORED BY BOLES FUNERAL HOMES & CREMATORY

Charles E. Bronk

James G. (Jim) Owen

March 31, 1929 - February 16, 2023 Charles E. Bronk, “Charlie” an all around nifty guy. Born March 31st, 1929 in Brooklyn, NY passed peacefully at home with family present, on February 16, 2023. He attended Leonia High School where he met his wife of 71 years, Audrey Bronk. He served in the US Army from 1946 till his honorable discharge in 1948. He served as a corporal technician and was an expert marksman.

Returning home he completed an Associate’s Degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Civically he introduced Indian Guides to Howard County, Maryland, designed the first Howard County YMCA outdoor pool and was very instrumental in the creation of the Howard County YMCA indoor facility. He and his wife Audrey moved to the Sandhills Area in 1993 residing first in Woodlake and then in Whispering Pines where they have resided for 26 years.

Charlie and Audrey were avid golfers and played many iconic courses including Pinehurst No 2, Pebble Beach, California and The Old Course in St Andrews, Scotland.

He is survived by his wife Audrey Bronk his son Kerry Bronk and grandson Eric Bronk, his son Jamie Bronk and wife Suzanne Tierney and grandchildren Alex “AJ” Bronk and Karly Bronk.

October 9, 1933 - February 14, 2023

May 25, 1949 - February 15, 2023

James G. (Jim) Owen, passed away on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2023. Jim was born October 9, 1933 in Lynnville, TN to the late William R. Owen and Sadie E. Owen. He graduated from Albion College, Albion, MI, where he met his beloved wife Lois. Jim went on to earn a BA degree in education and then a Master’s degree as well as a Specialist degree from Wayne State University, Detroit, MI. He loved working with young people and served as a high school guidance counselor for many years.

When they retired, they built a home on Lake Auman in Seven Lakes, North Carolina and lived there for 21 years. Jim loved tennis, golf, bridge, poker, walking, hiking and most of all his family. Jim and Lois loved to travel visiting many countries and parts of the US. Jim was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather and friend to many.

Jim leaves behind his loving wife, Lois Ann Owen, son Jeffrey Owen (Deceased); daughter Amy Owen; daughter Debra Owen Kwiatt, his grandchildren, Jaclyn Kwiatt, Stephanie Kwiatt and John Kwiatt. His brother William Robert Owen and Wife Betty Jo. And many loved nieces and nephews.

James A, (Jim) Januzik age 73 of Eastwood Peacefully passed away 15 February.

Born 25 May 1949 to James F. and Carol Graf Januzik in Chicago IL.He is survived by his wife, Khristine (Khris) Evans Januzik, sisters Jill Joyce (Rodger) and Joanne Oler; sons Ian Weeks, Justin Januzik and daughter Jennifer Hulak; granddaughter, Corragan Goosey (Joe), grandsons Daniel Valentic, Christopher Hulak, Sagan Fraizer (N.M); niece Eren Simpson (Michael), nephew Kenan Tataragasi (Ariel) and his dog, Max. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Janice James.

Jim served in the Airforce during the Viet Nam Era and received an honorable discharge.

Patricia Meyer Greene

Ross Elwin Moreton

June 10, 1928 - February 12, 2023

September 27, 1940 - February 11, 2023 Ross Elwin Moreton, 82, passed away Saturday, February 11, 2023.

He was born September 27, 1940 in Watertown, New York, to the late George and Marian (Stillman) Moreton. Ross enjoyed a fulfilling career at Nova Southeastern University, as the dean of one of the doctoral programs.

Ross is survived by his wife of 26 years, Diane Lee (Paul) Moreton; three daughters, Tonya Boegel and husband Jason of Florida; Kristen Bechtol and husband Bobby of Florida; and Melody Moreton of Seven Lakes; a son, Scott Moreton and wife Emiko of Florida; a sister, Carole Pegram of Florida; five grandchildren, Jake Boegel, Taylor Boegel, Eva Bechtol, Kai Moreton, and Zen Moreton. Also surviving are several nieces and nephews.

James A. (Jim) Januzik

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in NSJ at obits@northstatejournal.com

Patricia Meyer Greene went home to God in the early evening of February 12th after battling acute leukemia.

Patricia Anne Meyer was born in Auburn, NY on June 10, 1928 to the late Elizabeth Anne Heaton Meyer and John Herman Meyer of Auburn, NY. She married the late Francis Xavier Greene on May 7, 1949.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her daughter Frances Anne Greene (1950) and her husband Francis Xavier Greene (2015).

She is survived by her children, Moira Greene Grogan (David); Nancy Elizabeth Greene; and Michael Francis Greene (Dawn).

Surviving grandchildren include Kristina Robinson, Kerri Grogan Kosciesza (Jay), Sean Grogan, Taylor Greene Pennisi (Ben), Jordan Greene, Erica Leitner Varnedoe (Lee) and Michael Leitner. Surviving great grandchildren include Zoe and CJ Robinson, Aster Kosciesza, Carter Pennisi and Brandt Varnedoe.

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