Stanly News Journal Vol. 146, Issue 66

VOLUME 146 ISSUE 66 | WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 19, 2026 | STANLYNEWSJOURNAL.COM

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Stanly NewS Journal THE STANLY COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

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

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

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

PJ WARD-BROWN / STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

PJ WARD-BROWN / STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

WEDNESDAY

8.19.26 #137

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

“Join the conversation” North State Journal (USPS 518620) (ISSN 2471-1365) Trip Hoffend Publisher Jim Sills VP of Local Newspapers Cory Lavalette Senior Editor Jordan Golson Local News Editor Shawn Krest Sports Editor Dan Reeves Features Editor Lauren Rose Design Editor Jesse Deal Reporter PJ Ward-Brown Photographer ADVERTISING Kateland Treece Advertising Representative Published Wednesday and Sunday as part of North State Journal 1548 NC 24-27 BYP W Albemarle NC 28001

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

J. SCOTT APPLEWHITE / AP PHOTO

STANLY

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

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

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

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

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

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

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

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

Net zero is dead and gone

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

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

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

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

COLUMN | MARK MINNELLA

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

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

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

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

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

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

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

JULIA DEMAREE NIKHINSON / AP PHOTO

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

What U.S. military says about joint exercises

North Korea threatens strong response

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

PLAN from page A1

MICHAEL PROBST / AP PHOTO

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

Hidden politics of time: How clocks, calendars, now-contentious time zones came to be How industrialization and politics transformed time from natural cycles into precise systems By Deepti Hajela The Associated Press NEW YORK — It flies. It heals all wounds. It can be of the essence, and it can be money. We thrill in the best of it, lament the worst. We’re warned not to waste it, since we can’t turn it back — even as we try to make up for when it’s lost. And probably more than anything when it comes to time, most of us try to manage it — in our everyday lives and on a global scale, from the biology of our circadian rhythms to what constitutes a work day. Clocks. Calendars. Pendulums. Hourglasses. Sundials. Time zones. For something that’s been a pretty universal impulse to mark the shift of light and dark, the movement of the stars and the rhythms of the tides, the cycles of summer heat and winter cold, one might assume there’s been a universal way of measuring time. That assumption would be wrong. Take the shifting of the clock twice a year in most of the United States, once forward and then back again, a system that “moves” the time to let people enjoy daylight hours later into the evening. While people love the light, a lot of them loathe having to make the change. So much so that the House of Representatives last month overwhelmingly passed legislation calling for the shift to become permanent year-round. Its prospects for passage in the Senate aren’t high, and when the country tried it in the 1970s it was wildly unpopular and short-lived. But it continues to be brought up, an indication that the way we keep the clock counts. The methods different peoples and communities have used to track their lives haven’t existed in a vacuum. They’ve been impacted by culture, by religion, by economics and technology, by the governing principles both within nations and among them. Turns out, like pretty much anything where people are involved, there’s a politics to time. Measurements of time made up but still matter “Every measurement of time is arbitrary,” said Elizabeth Cohen, a political science professor at Boston University who has written about how we chronicle time and how it impacts the way people relate to each other. “Every deadline could have been a fraction of a second or a large increment of time different than it was,”

“But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.” Michael O’Malley, George Mason University history professor she said. “None of it is natural.” Take calendars. We use them to give a structure to our lives, but the spectrum of what that has looked like is vast through human existence. Some followed the sun, others the moon and others still a combination of both. Maybe all the months were the same length, maybe they weren’t. What we call a seven-day week might have had four, six or some other number of days in other timekeeping systems. Even today, when the main calendar in use globally is what we know as the Gregorian calendar, with its 12 months and leap years, other calendars are still consulted for religious or cultural purposes in places from Israel to Thailand. And daylight saving time? With its connection to our perceptions of what hours of light become available to us, it reflects “a desire for natural time,” said Michael O’Malley, a history professor at George Mason University. People “are outside longer, so they feel it as a connection to nature,” he said. “But it only makes sense in a society that’s completely hypnotized by clocks so you think the clock is time.” Culture of clock evolving It’s not just about the how. When we think about how culture evolved around time, there’s also the why. For most of human history, there were ties to the rhythms of the natural world: the phases of the moon, the rising and setting of the sun, the ebb and flow of the tides. And in agricultural societies, the importance of when to plant and when to harvest. Tracking the sun’s journey across the sky was a local endeavor. While the idea of a day broken down into 24 equal segments was important to groups like astronomers or seafarers, daily life was broken into “systems that tended to expand and contract based on the time of year and the location,” said Kevin Birth, an anthropology professor at Queens College. “But since people weren’t really traveling back and forth with any great rapidity back,” he said, “then it really didn’t matter.” Industrialization — in the form of the Industrial Revolution that started in 18th-cen-

tury England and spread — pushed people to shift notions of time. No longer was it about the sun’s cycle or the turn of the seasons. Industrial production meant schedules — people paying attention to the clock because they were due for specific shifts. “It was one of the goals of industrialization to instill in people this regular, unvarying sense of time,” O’Malley said. Contrast that to a preindustrial farmer, he said. “You could have an ethic of hard work, but that work is not going to be governed by a clock. It’s typically going to be governed by natural cues. The clock establishes this external authority that’s not you.” In the United States by the mid-1800s, another issue arose: time zones. There were more than 40 based around cities, which O’Malley said forced railroad companies to switch dynamically as trains traveled. Worried that other entities would standardize the zones and disrupt their businesses, the companies acted. “The American Railway Association got all the American railroads to agree that on Nov. 18, 1883, they would declare a four-zone system in effect in America,” O’Malley said. “And they just announced it.” Time can be cudgel It’s hardly the only occasion where the perception of time has involved national or global concerns. Take the Prime Meridian, the entirely made-up longitude line running from the North Pole to the South Pole, that divides Earth into eastern and western hemispheres and is used as the basis for global timekeeping as well as navigation. It runs through Greenwich, England, and was selected at an international conference in 1884. Was that because Greenwich was the ideal place? No, Birth said — it simply was established during “a period when the British Empire was one of the dominant empires in the world.” Time zones themselves “are about politics,” he said, pointing out that they are not divided in a standard format. Countries decide their own, and in the U.S., the individual states can decide if they observe daylight saving or not. A prime example is China, which stretches more than 3,000 miles across Asia. It has one official time zone for the country, instituted when the Communist Party took power in 1949 as a form of national unity. The entire country runs officially on Beijing time, but the reality on the ground when the sun rises in eastern China hours before it rises in western China is people adjust with their own local times for daily life, Birth said. Time can also be a tool used in a society to manage dissent and protest, Cohen said. She pointed to examples like governments instituting curfews or protesters engaging in slowdowns or strikes. “Time has a lot of power,” she said, “and people are battling over it to try and impose themselves on others or remove the yoke that has been imposed on them.”

transportation needs and serves as the first step toward making projects eligible for state prioritization and funding, but it does not commit money or guarantee that any recommendation will be built. The plan represents consensus on how the county wants its transportation system to develop. “We came before you about a year and a half to two years ago,” Snuggs said. “These plans are usually updated anywhere from 10 to 15 years. I think our plan was around 12 years old when we began the update.” Snuggs said the document is important because major projects presented to NCDOT must be included in the county’s CTP. Through public surveys, traffic analysis and reviews of possible alternatives, the update was developed during the past two years with input from municipalities, local stakeholders, the planning organization, NCDOT and residents who live, work and travel in Stanly County. The plan lists 28 highway recommendations, including proposed two-lane northern and southern bypasses around Albemarle and a bypass around Norwood intended largely to address truck traffic.

A5 Other concepts include converting sections of N.C. 24/27 to boulevards with medians and improving intersections throughout the county. Animashaun emphasized that the proposed routes and designs remain preliminary. “No funding is directly attached to any of the recommendations included in the CTP,” he said. “Therefore, the plan does not guarantee a project will be funded or constructed.” The document also recommends a park-and-ride lot along U.S. 52 Business near Henson Street in Albemarle and includes 105 bicycle and pedestrian recommendations. Those proposals range from sidewalks and bicycle lanes to multiuse paths and Carolina Thread Trail connections. Projects would undergo additional study and design if they later receive funding. The CTP may also be amended to add, change or remove recommendations as development and local priorities evolve. “I know we’ve been working on this thing for a couple years now, so thanks for all your hard work,” Chairman Scott Efird said. The Stanly County Board of Commissioners will hold its next regular meeting Sept. 8 at 6 p.m. in the Gene McIntyre Meeting Room at Stanly County Commons.

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

OBITUARIES

James Raymond Nance

Charles Max Morton

Bonnie Mullinix Springer

Aug. 16, 2026

Feb. 23, 1936 – Aug. 6, 2026

Sept. 14, 1925 – Aug. 12, 2026

Charles Max Morton, 88, of Locust, North Carolina, passed away Sunday, August 16, 2026. Funeral service will be at 11 am on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel of Locust, with Pastor Jeremy Hyde officiating. Burial will follow in the Mission Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10 am until 11 am prior to the hour of service. Max is survived by his beloved wife, Myra Morton of 67 years, his children, Paula (Randy) Huneycutt, Perry (Leslie) Morton, and Lori (John) Sell; and his grandchildren, Randi (Ken) Covington, Chase (Shannon) Morton, Jessica (Jamerson) Mosby, Tucker Morton, Miranda (Ben) MacDougall, Aaron Sell, and Jack Morton; and his 9 greatgrandchildren. Max was preceded in death by his parents, John and Jane Morton, and his siblings, Selma Bowers, Rayvon Morton, Loys Morton, and Vernon (Joe) Morton. Born and raised in the Endy community and graduated from Endy High School, class 1956 as valedictorian. Max spent his life rooted in the people, places, and traditions he held dear. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and greatgrandfather whose quiet presence and steady love meant so much to his family. Max was a man who found joy in simple things. He could often be found tending to his garden, or reading his almanac, Bible, and various books on history. His curiosity and willingness to learn stayed with him throughout his life. He was an avid golfer, hunter, and fisherman. A talented and creative man, Max taught himself the crafts he loved. He created beautiful stained-glass lamps and windows, each reflecting his patience and attention to detail. He also enjoyed winemaking, another skill he taught himself and pursued with the same quiet dedication. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to Tillery Compassionate Care (960 N 1st St, Albemarle, NC 28001) His life was marked not by grand gestures but by the everyday moments that become the memories a family treasures most - a garden carefully tended, a book being read in his favorite chair, something newly created by his hands, and time spent with the generations he loved. His family will remember him with gratitude and love and will carry his memory forward for generations to come.

Bonnie Mullinix Springer, 90, of Albemarle, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, at Trinity Place. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at Stony Hill United Methodist Church. Visitation at 1:00, service at 2:00, officiated by Rev. Angela Burris and Pastor Jeff Hathcock. Born on February 23, 1936, in Stanly County, North Carolina, Bonnie was the daughter of the late Tom Burse “T.B.” Mullinix and Lucille Cranford Mullinix. She devoted many years of faithful service to the church, first at Cokesbury United Methodist

James Raymond Nance died peacefully at the age of 100 on August 12, 2026, at Trinity Place. A funeral service celebrating his life will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Central United Methodist Church in Albemarle and will be officiated by the Reverend Dr. David Blankenberg. Burial will follow at Stanly Gardens of Memory. Mr. Nance, son of the late Raymond E. Nance and Mary Verdie White Nance, was born on September 14, 1925, in Asheboro, North Carolina. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Annie Velna Nance; his brother, Max Alfred Nance; and his stepmother, Katy Belle Cagle Nance, who assumed the role of his mother following his biological mother’s death when he was nine years old. Mr. Nance attended Wake Forest College and graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a B.S. in Commerce. During his time at UNC, he was a member of the Student Council and President of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity. Mr. Nance was also a distinguished veteran of World War II, having served with the 100th Infantry Division in France and Germany. He was awarded the Combat Infantryman Badge, a Bronze Star Medal with a “V” device for heroic achievement, a Bronze Star Medal for meritorious achievement, three Bronze Battle Stars, and the Presidential Unit Citation. In recognition of his instrumental role in the liberation of France, he later received the French Legion of Honor Medal from the President of France. After college, Mr. Nance began working for Nance Chevrolet in Asheboro, North Carolina, and in 1949, he married Helen Faucette of Warrenton, North Carolina. He then became a Chevrolet dealer at Confederate Chevrolet in Albemarle, where he worked for 54 years before selling the dealership in 2007 and, at his wife’s insistence, retiring at the age of 82. Mr. Nance was especially proud that his dealership was frequently ranked number one in the “Customer Satisfaction” domain in the Charlotte zone. Over the years, Mr. Nance was also President of the Albemarle Lions Club, a charter member of the Albemarle Investment Club, Chairman of the Central United Methodist Church Board, Secretary of the North Carolina Automobile Dealers Association, and a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the North Carolina Automobile Dealers Association. In addition to being a scholar, a decorated veteran, a businessman, and a civic leader, Mr. Nance was a doting husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Although he was never seen without a smile, speaking about his family revealed his broadest grin, as his most cherished role in life was his role as a family man, whose legacy endures. Surviving him, in addition to his wife of 76 years, are their four children: James Edward Nance and wife Helen, Carolyn Nance Baugh and husband John, Mary Catherine Nance Ellis and husband Gene, and Susan Nance Brooks and husband Chuck. Also surviving are 10 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren. Memorials may be made to Central United Methodist Church in Albemarle or to the charity of the donor’s choice. Stanly Funeral Home of Albemarle is serving the family.

Georgia Mae Lasley Inskeep Dec. 20, 1952 – Aug. 14, 2026 In Loving Memory of Georgia Mae Lasley Inskeep. Georgia Mae Lasley Inskeep, a fiercely loving wife, mother, Nana, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by the family she loved so dearly. Born December 20, 1952, in Keokuk, Iowa, Georgia was the daughter of George O. Lasley and Opal Richter Lasley. She attended Stanly Community College and devoted many years of her working life to serving her community as a Stanly County Land Records Specialist. But Georgia’s greatest accomplishment was never her career. It was the family she built, the love she gave, and the lives she touched along the way. She was happiest when surrounded by the people she loved, and her family was her greatest pride and joy. Her warmth, humor, strength, and fiercely independent spirit will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. Georgia had a special gift for making ordinary moments

Church in the 60s and then 32 years at Hawthorne Lane United Methodist Church, both of Charlotte, then retiring in 2023 after several years of service as a church secretary of Badin Baptist Church. Her kindness, dedication, and servant’s heart touched the lives of many. Bonnie will be remembered for her gentle spirit, quiet grace, classic southern style and charm and unwavering faith. A devoted Christian and faithful prayer warrior, she lived her life as a testament to God’s love through her compassion, humility, and steadfast encouragement of others. Soft-spoken and gracious, she found great joy in worship and music and was an active participant in every aspect of church life. She loved singing in the church choir, participating in United Methodist Women, attending Bible studies, and spending time in daily devotion and prayer. Bonnie also enjoyed reading, relaxing on her porch, playing Bingo with friends, and performing with the Singing Americans of Stanly County. She was also a devoted fan of Neil Diamond and Alan Jackson, whose music brought her many happy moments throughout the years. In addition to her parents, she

was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Henry Myron Springer, and her son, Daniel Thomas Springer. She leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory, including her daughters, Amanda Springer Hathcock and husband, Jeff, of Albemarle and Kelley Springer Adams and husband, David, of Gastonia; her daughter-in-law, Cindy Springer of Charlotte; her brothers, Ned Mullinix and wife, Ann, of Hampstead and Barry Mullinix of Albemarle; her grandchildren, Candice Stone, Jonathan Hathcock, Garrett Hazard, Adam Springer, and Ryan Springer; and her great-grandchildren, Mason Curenton, Rylen Hazard, and Lily Springer and many other beloved family members. Bonnie’s life was marked by quiet faithfulness, genuine kindness, and a heart devoted to serving both her Lord and those around her. Her legacy of love, grace, and steadfast faith will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to either Trinity Place, 24724 S. Business 52, Albemarle, NC, 28001 or to Stony Hill United Methodist Church, 28996 Stony Hill Road, Albemarle, NC 28001.

meaningful. She found joy in cooking meals for the people she loved, sewing for her family-friends-strangers, sharing stories, and simply being together with family. She cherished the comforts of home and the familiar sounds and traditions that brought people close. She lived life with an earthy authenticity and an unwavering love for the people around her. Georgia was a faithful follower of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She was formally baptized on June 6th, 2026 by Pastor Matthew Sharrock as an outward expression of that lifelong faith. She loved listening to scripture, hymns, praise and worship music and attended Bethel Methodist Church for numerous years. Even when faced with the difficult final chapter of her earthly journey with ALS, Georgia met each day with remarkable courage, resilience, and faith. She never allowed her illness to define her. Instead, she continued to show those around her what strength, grace, and perseverance truly look like. Georgia leaves behind her devoted husband of 54 years, Richard D. Inskeep; her children, Anthony D. Inskeep and Marcia Wood, Angela Burleson Scaffe and her husband, Rick Scaffe, and Patrick Duane Dunston and Kelly Rosato. She was a treasured Nana to Gabriel Burleson, Carly Black and her husband, Noah, and Dylan Stewart, and a beloved Nana Georgia to Cadence Black. She is also survived by her brother, Jerry Lasley; her sisters, Linda White; Gloria Moore; and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, her precious and kind hospice caregivers, and dear friends who

will carry her memory forward. Georgia was preceded in death by her beloved parents, George and Opal Lasley; her brother, John Lasley; her sister, Lois Renard; and other loved ones who welcomed her home. Georgia was also a passionate animal lover and loved and cared for numerous pets throughout her life, too numerous to mention by name. Her family takes comfort in knowing that although Georgia’s earthly journey has ended, the love she gave so freely has not. It lives on in every family recipe, every stitch sewn with care, every story remembered, every gathering around the table, and in the hearts of the people she loved. A celebration of Georgia’s life will be held at a later date to ensure distant family and friends can attend. Family and friends will gather to share memories, listen to some of her favorite music, and celebrate the remarkable woman she was. Georgia’s earthly remains will be scattered in various locations including her beloved home property in Troy, a place that held so many memories and so much of her heart. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Georgia’s memory to the American Cancer Society or ALS United, in honor of the causes that touched her life and the fight against the illnesses that affect so many families. She loved deeply, lived authentically, and left this world surrounded by the people who mattered most to her. Rest peacefully, Mama. You were deeply loved, and you always will be.

IN MEMORY

ANTHONY DAVID FRALEY FEB. 12, 1990 – AUG. 13, 2026

Celebrate the life of your loved ones. Submit obituaries and death notices to be published in Stanly News Journal at obits@ stanlynewsjournal.com

Anthony David Fraley, 36, of Albemarle, passed away on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at his home. A funeral service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, 2026, at the Stanly Funeral Home Chapel in Albemarle, with Pastor Wayne Lisenby officiating. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. on Friday evening, prior to the service. Anthony was born on February 12, 1990, in Mecklenburg County to Michael Fraley and the late Tonya Morton. He is lovingly survived by his parents, Michael and Kathlene Fraley; his children, Felicity Fraley and her mother, Kayla Collier, and son Kayson Fraley; his brother, Joseph Fraley (Charlotte); his sisters, Erica Caragher, Amanda Denning (Michael), and LillieMae Fraley; and his special friend, Krystal Woodle. He was preceded in death by his biological mother, Tonya Morton. Anthony was a wonderful son, a devoted father, and someone who brought laughter and encouragement wherever he went. He had a love

for the outdoors and especially enjoyed camping, shooting and fishing. Music was also an important part of his life, and he loved playing whenever he had the opportunity. Those who knew Anthony will remember his contagious laugh, his sense of humor, and his ability to make those around him smile. He was a jokester at heart and simply fun to be around. He loved his family deeply, and nothing meant more to him than his children, Felicity and Kayson. Anthony had a way of encouraging others and bringing a little more joy into the lives of the people who were fortunate enough to know him. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Anthony’s memory to Will’s Place, P.O. Box 1014, Albemarle, NC 28002. Anthony’s life was far too short, but the love, laughter, and memories he shared will remain with his family and friends for years to come. His contagious laugh, encouraging spirit, and love for those closest to him will not be forgotten. Though he will be deeply missed, Anthony will be lovingly remembered each time a favorite song is played, a story brings a smile, or laughter is shared among the family and friends he loved so dearly.

STANLY SPORTS

PJ WARD-BROWN / STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

North Stanly’s Malakhi Blackmon escapes for extra yardage during an Aug. 10 scrimmage against Bonnie Cone.

Stanly teams set to kick off 2026 football season Two of the four local teams have a head-to-head matchup By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — The 2026 high school football season begins Friday with all four Stanly County varsity teams taking the field at 7 p.m. for their Week 1 matchups. Two county rivals will open against each other, while the other two local squads are set to face nonconference opponents — one on the road and one at home. West Stanly at South Stanly Playing in K.L. Young Stadi-

10

Wins by North Stanly’s football team in 2025

um, West Stanly will be looking for revenge as it visits South Stanly. The Rowdy Rebel Bulls shut out the Colts 27-0 in last season’s opener in Red Cross. West Stanly enters its second year under coach Ralph Jackson seeking to rebound from a 2-10 finish and post its first winning record since the pandemic-shortened 2020 season. The Colts went 0-5 in the Rocky Riv-

er Conference, finishing last in the league standings. Aiming for its third consecutive winning season, South Stanly is led by fourth-year coach Terry Shankle. The Bulls finished 8-3 last year and placed third in the Yadkin Valley Conference with a 5-1 record. When November arrived, both teams advanced to the second round of the state playoffs. North Stanly at Community School of Davidson Reigning YVC champion North Stanly will travel to Mecklenburg County for a season-opening rematch against Community School of Davidson. The Comets defeated the Spartans 27-21 in

New London to begin last season. North Stanly enters its fourth year under coach Chad Little looking to build on its previous 10-2 campaign, when the Comets posted a 6-1 YVC record, led all county teams in overall wins and reached the second round of the state playoffs. The Comets are also pursuing their 14th consecutive winning season. Community School of Davidson, a member of the Catawba Shores Conference, finished 7-5 last year and will look to reverse the outcome of the teams’ 2025 matchup. College Prep and Leadership Academy at Albemarle Albemarle will host College Prep and Leadership Academy

in a rematch of last year’s season opener where the Bulldogs defeated the Royals 48-14 in Jamestown. Albemarle finished 5-7 last season and placed fifth in the Yadkin Valley Conference with a 2-5 record. Despite finishing below .500, the Bulldogs advanced to the second round of the state playoffs. Led by 10th-year coach Richard Davis, Albemarle is seeking its first winning season since 2013 and its first winning conference record since finishing as YVC co-champions with North Stanly three years ago. The Royals, who compete in the Greater Triad Conference, went 1-9 in their inaugural varsity season last fall.

Hill returns to Bengals practice after injury absence The Oakboro native passed his physical By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — Former West Stanly standout B.J. Hill returned to the practice field Saturday after missing the opening weeks of Cincinnati Bengals training camp because of an undisclosed injury. The Bengals announced Saturday morning that Hill had passed his physical and was cleared to practice. The 31-year-old defensive tackle participated in drills with teammates and is on track to play in Cincinnati’s next preseason game against the Chicago Bears. “I feel good. Glad to be back,” Hill said. “Just take it day by day. That’s always my goal, one minute at a time, one second and see how I feel and just go with that.” Cincinnati placed Hill on

the active/physically unable to perform list July 25, four days before the team’s first training camp practice, and he spent roughly three weeks sidelined. Although the Bengals did not specify the injury when making the roster move, Hill dealt with a foot injury last season and underwent an ankle procedure during the offseason, according to team officials. Hill had been the only Bengals player on a preseason injury list. His return means all 90 players on Cincinnati’s roster are eligible to practice. The Oakboro native has been a fixture on the Bengals’ defensive front since Cincinnati acquired him in a trade with the New York Giants before the 2021 season. The 6-foot-3, 311-pound lineman served as a team captain and started all 17 games last season. He recorded 66 tackles, four sacks and five tackles for loss. Hill ranked sixth on the team

JEFF DEAN / AP PHOTO

Bengals defensive tackle B.J. Hill jogs onto the field prior to a game against the Cleveland Browns on Jan. 4 in Cincinnati. in tackles and third in sacks. Over five seasons with Cincinnati, Hill has played in 81 games and made 67 starts, compiling 291 tackles and 20 sacks. The Bengals signed him to a three-year contract in March 2025 that runs through the 2027 season. Hill began his NFL career

with the Giants, who selected him in the third round of the 2018 draft following his college career at NC State. Cincinnati opened its preseason schedule with a 16-14 home victory over the Detroit Lions on Aug. 13 at Paycor Stadium. The Bengals will host the Bears on Saturday.

“I feel good. Glad to be back.” B.J. Hill

B2

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

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SIDELINE REPORT MLB

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

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

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

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NCAA BASEBALL

Bertman, LSU’s 5-time national title-winning baseball coach, dead at 88 Stanley “Skip” Bertman, who turned LSU’s baseball program into a powerhouse that won five national championships between 1991 and 2000, died at age 88. The College Baseball Hall of Famer’s legacy includes Alex Box Stadium, which opened in 2009 and holds about 11,000 spectators. The field at the stadium is named for Bertman, as is the College Baseball Foundation’s annual award for the nation’s top coach. Bertman retired from coaching in 2001 with a record of 870-330-3 in 18 seasons.

UFC

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

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Stanly News Journal 704-982-2121

B3

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

Logano holds off Briscoe to win Cup Series race at Richmond The Team Penske driver is getting hot as the season winds down By Nate Ryan The Associated Press RICHMOND, Va. — Joey Logano delivered a warning to his NASCAR rivals after his victory Saturday at Richmond Raceway. “Don’t let the boys get hot,” the driver of Team Penske’s No. 22 Ford said after fending off a late charge by Chase Briscoe to earn his 39th career win by 0.392 seconds. “We’re pretty strong right now. It’s awesome to see the speed in the 22 again.” After falling as low as 20th in the points standings at the season’s halfway mark, the three-time Cup Series champion is surging toward the NASCAR Chase. Two races remain until the title run featuring the top 16 drivers. With two victories in the past four races (after only one win in his previous 56 starts), Logano has jumped to ninth in the points standings and established himself as a championship contender again. It’s no surprise given that it’s the 2026 season. Since 2014, Logano has either won the Cup title or advanced to the championship round in every even-numbered year, and he typically does it with a late-season spree. In

ROBERT SIMMONS / AP PHOTO

Joey Logano enters Victory Lane after winning the Cook Out 400 on Saturday in Richmond, Virginia. his last title run, the 36-year-old won three of the final 10 races. “We’ve seen it a lot over the years once he gets that confidence,” crew chief Paul Wolfe said. “He’s very good under pressure situations.” Logano scored his third Richmond win but his first in nine years at the track.

“Gosh, it was a great car,” he said. “We’ve had a great car here the last five races, and we haven’t been able to capitalize on the win. We’ve been so close, but it was sweet redemption today.” Logano capitalized on the final strategy call by Wolfe, who pitted his driver just after taking the lead from Briscoe with

39 laps remaining. Logano needed only 15 laps to retake the lead from Christopher Bell, who was trying to stretch his tires to the finish on Richmond’s abrasive surface over the last 57 laps. Briscoe led a race-high 171 of 400 laps. He had a best finish of 11th in nine previous starts at Richmond, one of only three

active tracks where he had yet to score a top 10. After qualifying second, he passed pole-sitter Ryan Blaney on the first lap to lead the first lap of his career on the 0.75-mile oval. “This place has been a real struggle to me,” said Briscoe, who clinched a spot in the Chase with his sixth top 10 in the past seven races. “To get close and not get it done is so frustrating. We had a great points night, but just frustrating to say the least to have one slip away like that at the end.” Austin Cindric finished third and credited his teammate Logano with providing the advice that helped him score his best result since an April 2025 win at Talladega Superspeedway. “This is a racetrack that I feel like Joey Logano could finish top five in my rental car,” said Cindric. “It’s a place where I study him so much.” Denny Hamlin took fourth, followed by Chase Elliott, who notched his first top five since winning at Texas Motor Speedway three months ago. In an emotional ceremony, Richmond Raceway dedicated the grandstand seats where Hamlin’s parents sat for years watching NASCAR races long before their son became a 64-time winner in the Cup Series. Hamlin’s father, Dennis, died in a house fire last December. The track’s tribute was among the highlights of a homecoming weekend for Hamlin, who grew up about 20 minutes from the track. “It’s really the time I get to see my brother and sister that still live up here,” said Hamlin, who lives in the Charlotte area. “I’ve got lots of high school friends that have their own campsite here. It will be amazing if they don’t get arrested.”

ROBERT SIMMONS / AP PHOTO

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

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B4

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

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NOTICE OF SERVICE OF PROCESS BY PUBLICATION STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY COUNTY In the General Court of Justice Before the Clerk of Superior Court IN RE: CHANGE OF NAME FROM: KENDALL LANE DAVIS TO: KENDALL LAYNE HUDSON Vs. HOLLY ERIN HUDSON, Petitioner. TO: FATHER OF KENDALL LANE DAVIS: TAKE NOTICE that a pleading seeking relief against you was filed May 20, 2026 in Stanly County, North Carolina in the aboveentitled action. The nature of the relief being sought is as follows: PETITION FOR NAME CHANGE (MINOR) (25SP000155-830) You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than September 22, 2026 to the Stanly County Clerk of Court, P.O. Box 668, Albemarle, NC 28002, Attn: Special Proceedings and upon your failure to do so, the party seeking service against you will apply to the Court for the relief sought. This the 12th of August, 2026. PARNELL AND SCALES, PLLC Andrew T. Scales Attorney for Petitioner P.O. Box 2300 Albemarle, NC 28002 PUBLISH: August 12, 2026, August 19, 2026 and August 26, 2026

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA, STANLY COUNTY. NOTICE TO CREDITORS In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Division File No. 26E000352-830 Having qualified as Administrator of the Estate of JUDY COBLE TUCKER, Deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the decedent, or her estate, to exhibit them to the undersigned, on or before the 29th day of October, 2026, or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms and corporations indebted to the said estate should make immediate payment to the Administrator. This the 23rd day of July, 2026. Larry T. Tucker Estate of JUDY COBLE TUCKER 19268 Sandbar Road Oakboro, NC 28129 JEREMY D. GRIFFIN MORTON AND GRIFFIN LAW FIRM, PLLC 161 Ray Kennedy Dr., PO Box 422 Locust, North Carolina 28097 Telephone: 704-888-2311 Stanly News Journal Publish: July 29, August 5, 12 and 19, 2026.

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000356-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Co-Executor of the Estate of Joseph Harold Copple deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Joseph Harold Copple to present them to the undersigned on or before October 31, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 29th day of July 2026. James Ivan Copple 221 E. 3rd Street Oakboro, NC 28129 Co-Executor Angelena Copple 221 E. 3rd Street Oakboro, NC 28129 Co-Executor

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000359-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administratrix of the Estate of Linda Harwood Burleson deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Linda Harwood Burleson to present them to the undersigned on or before November 6, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 5th day of August 2026. Cheri Lindsay 2223 Kenwood Drive Kannapolis, NC 28081 Administratrix

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000353-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Beatrice Love Blackwelder deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Beatrice Love Blackwelder o the undersigned on or before October 31, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 29th day of July 2026. Mary Kimrey 13036 Robert Drive Stanfield, NC 28163 Executrix

NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

Estate of: Timothy Franklin Huneycutt SR Case Number:26e000281-830 Court: Stanly County Clerk of Superior Court NOTICE TO CREDITORS All persons having claims against the Estate of Timothy Franklin Huneycutt, Sr. are hereby notified that all claims must be presented to the Personal Representative, through the attorney listed below, on or before November 12, 2026, or the claims will be forever barred. Claims should be delivered to: Attorney for the Executor: Charles W. Parnell, Jr. Parnell & Scales Law Office P.O. Box 2300 Albemarle, NC 28002 Phone: (704) 985-1332

Notice is hereby given that the Town of Oakboro Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on September 1, 2026 at 6:30 PM at Oakboro Town Hall located at 109 N Main Street, Oakboro, NC 28129. The purpose of this public hearing is to hear comments for, or against the type of installation of a fence on a vacant lot located behind 109 E Fourth Street at PIN# 650301395678; TAX# 26312. This property is located in Historic Overlay District. Further information is available at Oakboro Town Hall. Any person wishing to speak should plan to attend the Public Hearing. Leslie Hatley Murray Town Clerk

NOTICE

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000319-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Carol Lefler Cauble deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Carol Lefler Cauble to present them to the undersigned on or before October 31, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 29th day of July 2026. Mary Moore Clark 413 Park Ridge Road Albemarle, NC 28001 Executor

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000343-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Rosaland Elaine Efird a/k/a Rosaland Almond Efird deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Rosaland Elaine Efird a/k/a Rosaland Almond Efird to present them to the undersigned on or before October 31, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 29th day of July 2026. Jeffrey Paul Efird 620 Lower Stone Church Road Rockwell, NC 28138 Executor

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Grady O’Neal Cook, Jr. deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Grady O’Neal, Jr. to present them to the undersigned on or before November 19, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 19th day of August 2026. Cynthia A. Cook a/k/a Cynthia C. Yandle 13402 Five Point Road Locust, NC 28097 Executor

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Clerk Before the Clerk 26E000048-830 Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of BOBBIE LOWDER LEE FRICK, deceased, late of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons, firms and corporations having claims against the Estate of said deceased to exhibit them to the undersigned on or before November 9, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 12th day of August, 2026. LESIA MAYHEW EXECUTRIX OF THE ESTATE OF BOBBIE LOWDER LEE FRICK MARK T. LOWDER ATTORNEY AT LAW PO Box 1284 206 E. North St. Albemarle, NC 28001 Telephone (704) 982-8558 Please run Notice: August 12, 19, 26 and September 2, 2026

Notice to Creditors Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Ruth Ann Goodwin, late of 604 N 6th Street, Albemarle, Stanly County, North Carolina 28001, the undersigned does hereby notify all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the estate of same decedent to exhibit them to the undersigned at 2610 Hwy 218 E, Monroe, NC 28110, on or before the 6th day of November 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, corporations indebted to the said estate will please make immediate payment to the undersigned. This the 5th day of August, 2026 Cindy G. Fisher Administrator of the Estate of Ruth Ann Goodwin 2451 Roundabout Lane Charlotte, NC 28210 Barry R. Howard Attorney for the Estate PO Box 176 Monroe, NC 28111

Notice Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Ann Blackmore Key, late of Stanly County, North Carolina, the undersigned hereby notifies all persons, firms, and corporations having claims against the Estate of said Decedent to present them to the undersigned, in care of the undersigned’s attorney, at the address below, on or before 20th day of November, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons, firms, and corporations indebted to the Estate will please make immediate payment. This the 19th day of August, 2026. Judith Workman Executrix of the Estate of Ann Blackmore Key c/o Andrew W. Cave Cave Law, PLLC 219 W Stanly St. P.O. Box 30 Stanfield, NC 28163

B5

Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

the stream

‘Outer Banks,’ Anthony Hopkins’ classical album, Anne Hathaway’s 1st 2026 movie er-songwriter Sam Smith will release their fifth album, “Hazel Eyes.” It’s a follow-up to 2023’s “Gloria” — which features the sexy and sacrilegious “Unholy” collaboration with Kim Petras, the track that gave Smith their most recent Grammy win. This time around, Smith offers warm love songs. It’s a welcome change of pace from their previous heartbreak material.

Weezer drops “The Gold Album” on Friday The Associated Press THE FINAL season of “Outer Banks” and a new album from Anthony Hopkins (yes, Sir Anthony Hopkins) are some of the new television, films, music and games headed to a device near you. Also, among the streaming offerings worth your time this week, as selected by The Associated Press’ entertainment journalists: Weezer’s 20th album, the survival horror game “The Sinking City 2” and “Mother Mary,” which kicked off Anne Hathaway’s incredibly prolific year in theaters.

SERIES TO STREAM

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

VICTORIA WILL / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Michaela Coel, pictured in April in New York, stars in “The Christophers.”

“Hathaway makes not just a believable pop star but an indelible portrait of an artist’s ego in extremes.” Jake Coyle, AP Film Writer

SCOTT A. GARFITT / INVISION / AP PHOTO

From left, Isaura Barbe-Brown, Anne Hathaway, director David Lowery, Michaela Coel and Atheena Frizzell pose for photographers upon arrival at a London screening of the film “Mother Mary” on April 23. performances from all. And finally, it’s a Zahn family affair in “She Dances,” starring Steve Zahn and his daughter Audrey as a father and daughter reconnecting after tragedy on the way to a dance competition. It’s also a “Reality Bites” reunion with Ethan Hawke. Directed by Rick Gomez, the film received warm reviews out of the Tribeca Film Festival and is set to debut on Peacock on Friday.

MUSIC TO STREAM

A certain tract or parcel of land lying and being in the County of Stanly , and State of North Carolina, in Red Cross Township, and more particularly described as follows: Lying and being in Stanly County, North Carolina and being a 5.754 acre tract as shown in Plat Book 24, page 204, PIN Number 559604537154 and being Tract Four as shown on the Division Survey of a 94.67 acre tract of the Bessie E. Whitley Trust dated April 20, 2015, prepared by Bruce A. Daniels Land Surveying, and as shown in the prepared by S.M. Sandy Surveying dated September 24, 2015 and recorded in Plat Book 24 at page 204 stated herein above. Together with improvements located thereon; said property being located at 20256 Jacob Road, Locust, North Carolina. The improvements thereon being commonly known as 20256 Jacob Road, NC 28097. Being the same lot or parcel of ground which by Deed dated November 3, 2015 and recorded November 18, 2015 among the Land Records of Stanly County, State of North Carolina, in Book: 1545, Page: 294 was granted and conveyed/assigned by and between MITCHELENE TATE, UNMARRIED, unto TANIKA L. SNYDER AND SPOUSE, JODY D. SNYDER.

delay the sale for up to three hours as provided in N.C.G.S. §45-21.23.

Academy Award winner Hopkins will release his debut album, “Life Is a Dream,” Friday via Decca Records. Conducted by Gustavo Dudamel, performed by the Philharmonia Orchestra and recorded at London’s Alexandra Palace in April, the album is a 12-track collection of classical compositions crafted over six decades.

“My first love, or vocation really, is music,” the 88-year-old actor told the AP earlier this month. The generational talent picked up piano at 4 and wrote his first piece, a waltz, in 1960. He was 22 at the time. “Life Is a Dream” reflects his life and childhood in Wales — possessing what he describes as a “melancholy and sadness” but, ultimately, beauty. Power pop-punk band Weezer will release their landmark 20th album on Friday. It’s self-titled, but no doubt fans will refer to it as “the Gold Album,” continuing in their tradition of color-identified records. The single “We Might as Well Be Strangers” is a standout, featuring the idiosyncratic vocals of Karly Hartzman, lead singer of the indie rock group Wednesday. Also on Friday: English sing-

The first two episodes of Season 2 of “Average Joe” are streaming now on Paramount+. The action-comedy stars Deon Cole as a plumber in Pittsburgh whose life becomes complicated — and dangerous — when he learns that his dad, who recently died, owes $10 million and a car to the Russian mob. Joe can’t catch a break in the new season either. Now in Cape Town, Joe once again finds himself over his head. “Outer Banks” kicks off its fifth and final season Thursday on Netflix. The show follows a group of friends from working-class families in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. They call themselves “Pogues,” a nod to the pogy, a small baitfish at the bottom of the food chain with strong survival instincts. We begin the season with the Pogues grieving the death of one of their own. They set out on both a treasure hunt and a quest for revenge. VIDEO GAMES TO PLAY It has taken longer than expected for “The Sinking City 2” to make it out of development. Then again, it comes from Ukraine’s Frogwares studio, and it isn’t easy to get a game out the door with a war going on. The new survival horror game is based on H.P. Lovecraft’s fiction, so be prepared to fight plenty of scaly, squishy, many-tentacled monsters as you explore a flooded Massachusetts town in the 1920s. Frogwares found a cult audience with 2019’s “The Sinking City” after building a reputation for more cerebral challenges with its Sherlock Holmes games. If you like your horror cosmic, the portal is open on PlayStation 5, Xbox X/S and PC.

TAKE NOTICE NOTICE OF FORECLOSURE SALE 26SP000001-830 Under and by virtue of the power of sale contained in a certain Deed of Trust made by Tanika L. Snyder and Jody D. Snyder (PRESENT RECORD OWNER(S): Tanika L. Snyder and Jody D. Snyder) to Susan D. Wagner and Steven M. Poynot, a Maryland Corporation, Trustee(s), dated December 23, 2016, and recorded in Book No. 1600, at Page 846 in Stanly County Registry, North Carolina, default having been made in the payment of the promissory note secured by the said Deed of Trust and the undersigned, Substitute Trustee Services, Inc. having been substituted as Trustee in said Deed of Trust by an instrument duly recorded in the Office of the Register of Deeds Stanly County, North Carolina and the holder of the note evidencing said indebtedness having directed that the Deed of Trust be foreclosed, the undersigned Substitute Trustee will offer for sale at the courthouse door in Albemarle, Stanly County, North Carolina, or the customary location designated for foreclosure sales, at 11:00 AM on August 26, 2026 and will sell to the highest bidder for cash the following real estate situated in Locust in the County of Stanly, North Carolina, and being more particularly described as follows:

25-123473 IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE OF NORTH CAROLINA SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION STANLY COUNTY 26SP000036-830 IN THE MATTER OF THE FORECLOSURE OF A DEED OF TRUST EXECUTED BY CRYSTAL ANN DAVIS DATED APRIL 8, 2022 AND RECORDED IN BOOK 1781 AT PAGE 1651 IN THE STANLY COUNTY PUBLIC REGISTRY, NORTH CAROLINA NOTICE OF SALE Under and by virtue of the power and authority contained in the above-referenced deed of trust and because of default in payment of the secured debt and failure to perform the agreements contained therein and, pursuant to demand of the holder

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

Trustee may, in the Trustee’s sole discretion,

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

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

of the secured debt, the undersigned will expose for sale at public auction at the usual place of sale at the Stanly County courthouse at 11:00AM on August 27, 2026, the following described real estate and any improvements situated thereon, in Stanly County, North Carolina, and being more particularly described in that certain Deed of Trust executed Crystal Ann Davis, dated April 8, 2022 to secure the original principal amount of $166,649.00, and recorded in Book 1781 at Page 1651 of the Stanly County Public Registry. The terms of the said Deed of Trust may be modified by other instruments appearing in the public record. Additional identifying information regarding the collateral property is below and is believed to be accurate, but no representation or warranty is intended. Address of property: 43776 Cypress Crossing Road, New London, NC 28127 Tax Parcel ID: 5135

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

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

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

SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE SERVICES, INC. SUBSTITUTE TRUSTEE c/o Foundation Legal Group P.O. Box 1028 Fayetteville, NC 28302 4317 Ramsey Street Fayetteville, NC 28311 Phone No: (910)864-3068 https://sales.hutchenslawfirm.com Firm Case No: 29729 - 153489

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Stanly News Journal for Wednesday, August 19, 2026

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