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VOLUME 146 ISSUE 75 | WEEKEND EDITION, SEPT. 19-20, 2026 | STANLYNEWSJOURNAL.COM

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Stanly NewS Journal THE STANLY COUNTY EDITION OF NORTH STATE JOURNAL

STAN GILLILAND FOR STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

Meet and greet President Donald Trump speaks to a crowd at the Gastonia Municipal Airport on Wednesday to promote the candidacy of Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley. For more, turn to page A7.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

Commissioners fill 3 seats on Voluntary Agricultural District Board

UNC defensive coordinator Steve Belichick resigns, probe into conduct in football program concludes North Carolina defensive coordinator Steve Belichick has resigned from his position as the school concludes a probe into its football program. Steve Belichick is head coach Bill Belichick’s son. The school released a statement Thursday morning saying Steve Belichick’s resignation would be effective in late October at the conclusion of a medical leave. That leave was announced early in preseason camp. That comes after the school’s investigation “determined that certain actions demonstrated a disregard for Carolina’s values and standards of conduct.” The school had previously announced the resignation of general manager Michael Lombardi amid the probe.

Unemployment claims drop to 196,000, lowest since mid-July The number of people applying for unemployment benefits dropped sharply last week, another sign that layoffs remain rare and most Americans enjoy job security. The Labor Department reported Thursday that jobless claims slid to 196,000, fewest since mid-July and down from 206,000 the week before. Economists had expected claims to come in at 207,500, according to a survey by the data firm FactSet.

$2.00

Two members were reappointed and one newcomer was added to the ag district board By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal

COURTESY STANLYTV

Voluntary Agricultural District Board Chairman Chester Lowder was a featured presenter at the Sept. 8 Stanly County Board of Commissioners meeting.

ALBEMARLE — The Stanly County Board of Commissioners has approved three appointments to the county’s Voluntary Agricultural District (VAD) Board. On Sept. 8, county commissioners voted 7-0 to reappoint VAD Board Chairman Chester Lowder and Leon Huneycutt to new three-year terms while appointing Elaine Moore to fill a

Albemarle Police launch LEAD program, plan Community Night Out The new program and annual event highlight community outreach By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — The Albemarle Police Department is expanding its community outreach efforts with the launch of a new diversion program while preparing for its annual Community Night Out event in October. The department officially launched its Law Enforcement Assisted Diversion (LEAD) program during an event at City Hall on Sept. 4. Developed under Police

Chief Ryan Manley, the new initiative allows law enforcement officers to refer eligible individuals they encounter to community-based services rather than relying solely on traditional enforcement options. The program connects residents with support and resources related to substance use, mental health needs, housing instability, homelessness, poverty and barriers to treatment, recovery, employment and other areas affecting long-term stability. City leaders, Albemarle City Council members, community partners and representatives See PROGRAM, page A5

“I truly believe that opportunity creates change, and that is what LEAD creates in Albemarle.” Ryan Manley, Albemarle Police chief

vacant seat. Lowder presented the recommendations to commissioners. “Commissioners, thank you for the job you do,” Lowder said. “I bring three recommendations for members of the board: Elaine Moore, who lives on Mountain View Church Road in Albemarle, Leon Huneycutt in Stanfield and myself to be members appointed to the Voluntary Ag District Board.” With the terms of Lowder, Huneycutt and Lori Ivey now expired, Lowder and Huneycutt indicated they were willing to continue serving and submitted updated volunteer applications, See BOARD, page A8

Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

SUNDAY

9.20.26 #146

“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 ADVERTISING Kateland Treece Advertising Representative Published Wednesday and Sunday as part of North State Journal 1548 NC 24-27 BYP W Albemarle NC 28001 TO SUBSCRIBE OR PLACE LEGAL NOTICE: 704-982-2121 STANLYNEWSJOURNAL.COM Annual Subscription Price: $100.00 Periodicals Postage Paid at Albemarle N.C. and at additional mailing offices POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: North State Journal 1201 Edwards Mill Rd. Suite 300 Raleigh NC 27607

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Amazon increases minimum starting hourly wage for full-time core operations employees Employees also receive new grocery discounts and credit union access By Anne D’Innocenzio The Associated Press NEW YORK — Online behemoth Amazon said it’s increasing the minimum starting hourly wage for its U.S. full-time core operations employees to $20 ahead of the crucial holiday shopping season. With the $1-per-hour increase across the board for these workers who do jobs like pack and ship orders, the average pay for these employees will reach nearly $24 per hour, the company said Wednesday. The retailer said the average total compensation will be more than $32 an hour including the value of its benefits package. The pay increase is effective starting Sept. 27, the retailer said. Amazon also said Wednesday that employees will receive new benefits such as a 10% discount on eligible fresh groceries and everyday essentials at Amazon.com and Whole Foods Market online as well as 20% off at Whole Foods physical stores. The discount can be combined

MICHAEL SOHN / AP PHOTO

An Amazon company logo marks the facade of a building, March 18, 2022, in Schoenefeld near Berlin. with existing Prime member discounts, the retailer said. The discount will be available to every Amazon employee in the U.S. starting Oct. 1, the company said. Amazon also said it’s rolling out access to qualified employees and their families for a membership in First Tech Federal Credit Union that provides low-cost banking services they can keep for life. Employees can access accounts with no overdraft or monthly maintenance.

We were together — I forget the rest.

The company said no credit history is required to open a checking and savings account. The rollout will start later this year. In comparison, Walmart last year expanded its 10% employee discount to include nearly all grocery purchases at its stores and online. The discount had previously applied to fresh groceries and general merchandise but didn’t include such groceries as milk, pasta, or meat except during the No-

CRIME LOG Sept. 7

Sept. 11

• Lemance Donnell Davis, 50, was arrested for possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver cocaine; manufacturing cocaine; and felony possession of cocaine, and other charges.

• Travis Melvin Robinson, 45, was arrested for breaking and entering, larceny after breaking and entering and injury to real property, and other charges.

Sept. 8 • Justin Wayne Waldroup, 41, was arrested for communicating threats and second-degree trespass. • Rebecca Rose Medley, 30, was arrested for domestic violence and simple assault. • Anthony Lee Sherald, 64, was arrested for domestic violence and assault on a female. Sept. 9 • Kendra Renee Holder, 39, was arrested for driving while impaired, injury to personal property and driving on a revoked license, and other charges. • Christian Seth Parker, 26, was arrested for breaking and entering, habitual larceny and possession of stolen goods or property, and other charges. • Jay’von Tyreke Steele, 19, was arrested for attempted first-degree murder and felony conspiracy.

(704) 984-8837 Phyllis Kimrey & Adrian Lash

vember and December holiday shopping period. At Walmart, the starting pay for hourly store workers is $14, with U.S. hourly employees making more than $18.50 on average, according to Walmart. Walmart also noted that the average hourly starting wage is $16. For Walmart warehouse and other supply network workers, the average hourly wage is $27.50 and the average hourly starting wage is $24.75.

• Douglas Lee Wyrick, 20, was arrested for communicating threats and injury to personal property. Sept. 10 • Yancy Pregency Pergee, 46, was arrested for a civil order for arrest for child support.

• Khalil Z. Sifford, 26, was arrested for a civil order for arrest for child support. Sept. 12 • Shaquana Shante Reid, 41, was arrested for carrying a concealed gun, simple possession of a controlled substance and possession of marijuana paraphernalia. • Demarco Antonie Colson, 48, was arrested for fleeing to elude arrest with a motor vehicle, reckless driving and failure to yield at a stop sign or flashing red light, and other charges. • Savannah Ray Myers, 18, was arrested for cyberstalking. Sept. 13 • Rodney Dale Redmon, 58, was arrested for assault on a government official or employee and resisting a public officer. • Evan Micheal Gwaltney, 23, was arrested for driving while impaired, injury to real property and reckless driving, and other charges. • Leron Vercell Owens, 65, was arrested for driving while impaired; fleeing to elude arrest with a motor vehicle; and possession with intent to manufacture, sell or deliver marijuana, and other charges. • Ed Jmar Harris, 41, was arrested for interfering with an electronic monitoring device.

Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

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

COLUMN | DAVID BLACKMON

Chris Wright’s latest quest shows America needs more refineries A single new greenfield refinery is under construction today by America First Refining.

ENERGY SECRETARY Chris Wright met with executives from refining companies Monday to explore ways the Trump administration could help them boost throughput volumes to keep America’s gasoline and diesel market fully supplied. The meeting took place in Midland, Texas, during an industry conference Wright was attending. Wright and the White House believe an increase in refined volumes could hold the key to lowering prices for gas and diesel at the pump. The administration’s concerns are not surprising given the fact that gasoline prices have stubbornly remained above $4 per gallon nationwide amid the ongoing Iran conflict, a dollar higher than a year ago. Though still a dollar below the highs reached during the Biden autopen years, the current price paradigm could have a significant impact on November’s midterm elections. Wright told reporters that the Department of Energy would announce steps this week that it can take to help spur higher throughput even though his own Energy Information Administration reported last week that U.S. refineries have been sustaining unusually high activity levels for months now. Some companies have expressed concerns in recent weeks that the current 96.2% capacity level cannot be sustained for much longer as some refineries are already well past their regular periodic maintenance downtime schedules. It’s hard to see how the feds can spur even higher output levels through this limited refining fleet. Wright will be looking for shortterm measures, like possibly suspending fuel blending requirements under the Environmental Protection Agency’s haze reduction program. That move would have

made even better sense to take in April when refiners are annually forced to switch over to costly summer blends that always raise gas prices at the pump just as summer driving season ramps up. The real enduring problem related to America’s refining industry is there isn’t enough of it: The U.S. industry hasn’t opened a single new major refinery in almost half a century now. The simple fact is the United States needs more refineries if it is to keep more of its record, world-leading oil production at home for domestic use instead of having to export 3 million to 5 million barrels of the light, sweet crude produced from the Permian Basin every day because there isn’t enough domestic refining capacity to handle it. A single new greenfield refinery is under construction today by America First Refining at the Port of Brownsville, Texas. Scheduled for completion in late 2027, the America First Refinery will have an initial capacity to process up to 168,000 barrels of light, sweet crude per day. As substantial as that is, it puts only a small dent in the overall magnitude of the capacity shortage. Make no mistake about it: Building new refineries is not remotely a short-term solution. In an interview in March, AFR CEO John Calce told me just obtaining the mandatory air quality permit under the Clean Air Act consumed a full seven years for a facility that will take less than three years to construct. That’s a regulatory roadblock that has discouraged many other potential refinery projects since 1979. Wright’s push also comes amid a trend among big shale producers to trim back on drilling budgets in favor of allocating capital to

stock buybacks and other returns to investors. That also is not surprising given that it has been the prevailing operational model for shale producers since at least 2019, as Irina Slav points out in a story at OilPrice.com. No one should doubt Wright’s contention during a Monday interview that the Permian Basin and other shale basins are capable of further increasing production of both oil and natural gas. The main variable in that equation is the willingness of the companies doing most of the drilling to allocate capital to meet that goal. Most big oil-producing countries source most of their oil through a national oil company like Saudi Arabia’s Aramco that is responsive to government edicts and needs. But in the United States, oil and gas are drilled, produced and refined by hundreds of privately held companies executing on their own discrete business plans. Thus, persuasive though Wright certainly is, persuasion is really the only tool he and the White House possess to wring more throughput out of America’s already stressed refining industry. David Blackmon is an energy writer and consultant based in Texas. He spent 40 years in the oil and gas business, where he specialized in public policy and communications. This column was first published by Daily Caller News Foundation.

COLUMN | STEPHEN MOORE

The marriage deficit is an economic catastrophe The latest Census Bureau data indicates that 47% of households were headed by married couples.

THE BEATLES TOLD US, “All you need is love.” They were right, but along with love must come marriage. But marriage rates have plummeted, especially among young men. A Pulitzer Prize-worthy story by Sean Salai of The Washington Times crunches all the numbers. To say they are worrisome would be a vast understatement. •In 2025, nearly twice as many men ages 18 to 39 were unmarried as were married. •There were 30.4 million unmarried men ages 18 to 39 in 2025, up 47% from 20.7 million in 2000. •In the same period, married men in this age range dropped by 15%, from 18.1 million to 15.4 million. “Such men are more likely to be lonely, prone to deaths of despair and unhappy,” according to Brad Wilcox, a University of Virginia sociologist. •Forty-two percent of working-class men are unmarried, according to educational psychologist Donna R. Turner. In 1980, 73% of working-class men were married. I could go on and on with these depressing statistics. But I believe the decline in marriage and children is a threat to the American future much more dangerous than even the national debt, climate change, cancer or

foreign aggression. Family is the essential organizing unit in America. We’re not meant to live in Sovietstyle communes where the authority figure is “Big Brother.” Every study shows that the decline in marriage among young men is tied to alcoholism, violent crime, drug abuse, pornography, depression, isolation, less economic success and suicide. Are women to blame? Certainly. Studies show that as women have become more career oriented, they are having a harder time “marrying up.” Generation X and millennials have become choosier in finding a mate and more likely to have children alone, if they have them at all. “Women have less structural need for marriage than past generations did,” said Angelica Gianchandani, a New York University finance instructor. “Rising income and education give many women a financial independence marriage once provided, and donor sperm and fertility treatment have decoupled motherhood from a partner altogether.” Women are much less likely to be religious today than in decades past. So holy matrimony is less of a lifetime priority or moral obligation. We do know that when women raise

children without a father in the home — for whatever reason — their kids, especially their sons, are less successful. It’s a particular problem for black women to find a suitable mate when so many young black males are incarcerated. I’m thrashing for explanations and solutions to this deeply troubling social trend. Obviously, we are not returning to the “Father Knows Best” norms of the 1950s or 1960s. But recovery starts with admitting we have a problem. I would suggest that President Donald Trump announce a national bipartisan commission on “Rediscovering Love, Marriage and Parenthood.” One last stat to underscore the urgency of turning around these trends: The latest Census Bureau data indicates that 47% of households were headed by married couples last year, down from 78.8% in 1949. That trend must be reversed to advance America’s economic prosperity and human happiness. Stephen Moore is a former Trump senior economic adviser and the cofounder of Unleash Prosperity, which advocates for education freedom for all children. (Copyright 2026 Creators.com)

Stanly County Journal for Wednesday, January 18, 2023

Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

obituaries obituaries

IN MEMORY

REV. JAMES DAVID TUCKER, SR. MARCH 27, 1937 – SEPT. 13, 2026 Rev. James David Tucker, Sr., 89, of Concord, formerly of Albemarle, passed away on Sunday, September 13, 2026, at Atrium Health Cabarrus. A graveside funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, September 21, 2026, at Stanly Gardens of Memory, with Rev. Delane Burris officiating. The family will receive friends from 6:00 until 8:00 p.m. on Sunday evening, September 20, 2026, at Stanly Funeral and Cremation Care of Albemarle. Jim was born on March 27, 1937, in Gaston County to the late January 24, 1939 ~ January 15, Wesley and Mary Tucker. 2023 He is lovingly survived by his children, Rebecca Tucker Frick April 17, 1936 ~ January 14, 2023 (Todd) of Norwood, James David Tucker, Jr. (Terry) of Sunset Dwight Britten Farmer Sr., 83, Beach, Mary Tucker (Todd) of Overland Park, KS; BarbaraNC, Jeanand Taylor Drye, 86, Bigbee of Norwood died Sunday morning, five grandchildren, Tucker, Maggie Vealey (Michael), Nolan of Oakboro, passed awayJake Saturday, January 15, 2023 at Forrest Oakes. Stamper, LeviatStamper, nieces 24, and January 14, 2023 her home.and Riston Bigbee; Dwightand was many born January Barbara was born April 17, 1936 nephews. 1939 in Stanly County to the late in North Carolinato to his the parents, late Robert In addition he was preceded death by his Walter Virgilin and Martha Adkins Leebeloved Taylor and theShirley late EvaFrances Belle Jones wife, Tucker, 2021; brothers, Farmer. Heinwas a 1957 graduate Watts Taylor. Charles Tucker and Bob Tucker; and sister, Violet of Norwood HighLowman. School and was SheJim waswas alsoapreceded in death whose a United States Armyto Veteran. faithful Christian life was devoted serving by the husband 61 family, years, Keith Furr Hehis wascommunity. a member ofFor Cedar Lord,ofhis his country, and 30Grove years, Drye, and brothers, Robert Lee United Methodist Church he faithfully served in pastoral ministry, sharing the Gospelwhere and he Taylor, Jr. and George Kenneth had served as Throughout church treasurer caring for the congregations entrusted to him. his and Taylor. choir member. He began his career ministry, he pastored Mission Baptist Church in Baxley, GA; Bay Survivors include children, with the Stanly County Sheriff’s Branch Baptist Church GA; Kenly Baptist Church Debbie (Mike) Williams of in Sylvania,Department moving to the Norwood in Kenly,Teresa NC; Morningside in Asheville, and as Albemarle, (Tom) Curry Baptist Church Police Department andNC; retiring Grace Baptist Church in Albemarle, NC.of Police with the Town of of Oakboro, Douglas (Tammy) Chief Drye of Oakboro; grandchildren, A proud veteran, Jim served hisNorwood country in both theyears United after many of service. Melissa (Don) Parrish of Albemarle, States Army and United States Air Force. Hiswas heart for service Dwight an avid gardener, Samantha (Destiny) Smith of extended beyond the church and military, as he also served as bird watcher and Carolina fan. Oakboro, Bradley Smith He isDepartment, survived by hisoffering wife Hilda Chaplain for the CityofofOakboro, Albemarle Police Jonathan Stover of Peachland, andspiritual Whitley Farmer; one son D. Britten encouragement, prayer, and support to those who Jessie Stover of Lylesville; sisterFarmer Jr. (Mary) of McLeansville, served the community. in-law, Beatrice Goodman; many NC; one daughter Sharon Farmer community including playing niecesJim andenjoyed nephews;many and her beloved activities, LoweHigh (David) of Norwood; one softball and being chaplain for various Schools. He cats, Bo and Garfield. sister Geraldine Dennis of Troy; two treasured time spent of with his family. He was a devoted father and Barbara was a member grandchildren, Dwight Britten “Dee” especially loved being grandfather. His family was a source of Oakboro Baptist Church foraover Farmer III and Whitley Rose Hui and joy throughout life. 60great years.pride She worked over 30 years his Lowe. at Stanly Mills. After TheKnitting family would like tojust express their sincere gratitude to by He was preceded in death twoLatoya years ofEdwards retirement, began andshe the staff of Compassionate Care Services his son Alex, brothers, Tommy and managing the Oakboro Senior for the kindness, care, and supportJimmy, provided to Jim during his sisters, Nancy, Cornelia Center and did that for 18 years declining health. Annabell, Glennie Mae, and Betty. until this pastofweek. Barbara was Memorials made to Cedar In lieu flowers, memorials may be made tomay the be Autism known for her good cooking and Grove United Methodist Church, Society of North Carolina. always taking care of others. She also Cemetery or Choir Fund c/o Pam Jim leaves behind a legacy built upon faith, service, and loved going on day long shopping Smith 36071 Rockyof River Springs love. For decades, heand stood families in times joy and trips - she could out walk out besideRoad, Norwood, NC 28128.and sorrow, shared the hope of the Gospel, served his country shop people half her age. She kept and faithfully loved those entrusted to his care. hercommunity, mind and body active through Thoughword his earthly ministry gardening, searches, and has come to an end, the lives he touched the example he set will continue to speak for various otherand hobbies. generations. His family takes comfort in knowing that the faith he so faithfully proclaimed throughout his life has now become sight, and he is at home with the Lord he served so well.

Barbara Jean (Taylor) Drye

Dwight Farmer

James Roseboro

June 23, 1967 ~ January 10, 2023

notices to be published in SCJ at obits@stanlyjournal.com

March 23, 1935 - January 9, 2023

Doris Jones Coleman

October 11, 1944 - January 10, James Arthur Roseboro, 55, of 2023 Albemarle, passed away Tuesday, John grew up in the Millingport January 10, 2023 at Anson Health community where he drove a school Doris Elaine Jones Coleman, 78, and Rehab. bus and worked at the local gas went home into God’s presence on Mr. Roseboro was born on station during his High School years. DAVE a PICKOFF / AP PHOTO January 10 after sudden illness and June 23, 1967 to the late Robert He graduated from Millingport a valiant week-long fight in ICU. and Delena Shipp Roseboro. He High in 1954 and entered into Peter Max sits among some of his minute-by-minute creations in his New York studio on Nov. Doris was born on October 11, graduated service with the US Airforce 11, 1973. from South Stanly 1944, in the mountains of Marion, High School and was employed by immediately afterward. Upon NC while her father was away Triangle Brick. He enjoyed watching return from the service, he and his fighting in the US Navy during football and basketball, especially the high school sweetheart Julie were World War II. Raymond Jones was Carolina TarHeels and Miami. married in 1956. He graduated from In addition to his parents he is Nashville Auto Diesel College later in so proud to return after the war and meet his little girl! Doris grew up in preceded in death by his brothers 1959 and began his career as a diesel Durham, NC and graduated from and sisters: Barbara Lee Roseboro, mechanic at Mitchell Distributing Durham High School. She furthered Dorothy Brown, Verna Roseboro, Company, moving his growing her studies at Watts Hospital Henrietta Ingram, and Harold family to Charlotte where they lived School of Nursing in Durham and Roseboro. until their retirement. graduated as a Registered Nurse in He is survived by his sisters: When John purchased his first Though his designs and a guardian alleged that came part of American culture, son 1966. Helen (James) Roseboro Edwards Model A Ford at the age of 17, he epitomized the 1960s, his Mary Maxmarried had depleted his fibut the man behind that art — Doris Rev. Dr. Ted of Albemarle, Mary Roseboro said that he took the car to the nances and browbeat him. She accessible kept them the father we knew and loved — Coleman in 1966 and had two of Washingtonstyle DC, and Marion community mechanic when he had in turn claimed that they had daughters Amy and Laura. Doris is the person we will miss most.” commercially relevant for Morrison of Albemarle; brothers: a small problem.The mechanic told raised Amy and Laura in Northhis him from her against Thomas D. Roseboro of Charlotte, decades him that if he was going to keep the kept Augusta, SC. will and stolen paintings that Family fled Nazi Germany Robert Roseboro (Patricia) of car, he needed to learn to work on Doris was incredible neonatal belonged to an her. Accounts of Norwood, and Van Horne; a special it. This is when John’s passion for intensive care nurse fordescribed most of her court appearances Max A was born Peter Max By Beth J. Harpaz friend of over 40 years, Michelle Model Fords began and howFinhe career, and this was her passion. as frail. kelstein 1937 todays a Jewish famThe Associated McLendon of the Press home; special spent hisinhappiest with his best him ily in Berlin. fled nieces: Nybrea Montague, Knya friends from They around theNazi globeGerfor the The Augusta Chronicle did a feature onart her in 1985. She was a clinical had a bright, when he was His Little, and YORK Laquanza NEW —Crump; Peter special Max, many rest offor hisShanghai life! nurse manager in Augusta, Georgia nephews: Robert Jr., Desmond pop a baby vibe and spentastime in happy whose colorful, psychedelic At age 50,later after years a Detroit at University Hospital NICU and Roseboro, and Marcus Lilly; and of Tibet, Israel and Paris before art expressed the optimism Diesel Mechanic he and Julie worked 20 years. During God Daphne Johnson; and settling Those there darkforallegations conNewthe York Cityand when the daughter, “flower power” movement decided in to take plunge this time, Doristhe mentored young special Johnson and Max with relentlessly By then, he said in trasted openwas a full16. Model A Restoration of the friends, 1960s Vetrella and graced everynurseshappy and assisted saving the Ben McLendon. Shop. They thrived at their shop in vibe in that infused interview, he was already “a bright, thing from postage stamps to a an lives of so many babies. She also Cornelius, until their retirement fan ofNCAmerican culture”: his work. “The colors are strong, cruise ship, has died at 88, his huge worked for Pediatrician Dr. William in 1998 when they moved to sometimes loud, sometimes raw movies and “all back the jazz son said in a written statement comics, A. Wilkes in Augusta for several Cabarrus County. John once again and sometimes harmonious, music.” Wednesday. years prior to her NICU career.but Doris set up shop in hisin back yardYork garage powerful, and the area im- at Max studied New at always Max died on Monday, the retired from the mother/baby where he attracted a loyal group of are Stanly always on the side statement said. No cause was the Art Students League, the ages Atrium in 2007 after overof40 friendsof who visitedArts almost daily. peaceful nature,” he said. School Visual and Pratt the given. years of nursing. While on the in Gold Hill, “I don’t discuss in myand paintings Infarm 1961, he opened Max began his career in Institute. Doris was a gentle sweet John also began a lifelong love with negative things, I don’t dwell on graphic design in the 1960s, and a graphic design studio with spirit and loved her Lord. She never Alis Chalmers tractors after he my mind and don’t dwell left on his swirly, colorful, instantly friends. His bold, unique style it in met a stranger, and she always restored his Dad’s tractor in my canvasses.” an immediate hit and withbegan ad it you recognizable designs epitomized was feeling uplifted after talking amassing publications, his collection ofthe tractors In her. another interview, corthe era’s “flower power” art. But agencies, with She would often claimhe that as well. it up like friends this: “Iinto see her evthanks to his prolific output and porate world and in pop culture. summed she had “adopted” John restored many cars of through eyes.” That led to a booming com- erything fun, accessible style, Max’s work immediate family,rainbow and honestly, she his own and had the crowning Although Max’s business. “My work remained well known and popu- mercial never made aaccounts distinctionofbetween achievement of winning the most sometimes lamentfrom that the two. Positivity radiated her was really, award I would say, almost lar well into the 21st century. prestigious from MARC, The career like sunlight. She was selfless, funny, he was not taken seriously by he said. “It was on Max was the official artist for exploited,” Henry for a restoration that garnered smart, sentimental. During her art and establishment, in fact it was on also bedsheets, the Olympics, the Super Bowl, mugs, top points. He was presentedit the lifetime she was an active member his work has been featured in on dresses, it was on silks the Indianapolis 500, the World was with the Ken Brady Service Award of Firstof Baptist Church of Durham, museum exhibitions and ties —to70members prod- dozens Cup, the World Series and many and the scarves highest award given First Baptist Church of Augusta, January 7, 1973 January 8, around the world. New York’s uct lines.” other events. His ~art appeared at the national level. Most Holy Catholic ofTrinity Modern Art Church owns But what “bothered” on a Boeing 2023 777 airplane and This is what John’ s Model Ahim Museum in Augusta, and Palestine United of his works. all that he said, seven a Norwegian Cruise Line ship. about Community hadsuccess, to say upon Methodist Church Albemarle. Darrick Vashonsubjects Baldwin, age 50, The art for the in Beatles’ “Yelwas thatof he “wasn’t painting His portrait ranged learning his death: She especially loved helping at entered eternal rest, Sunday, January Soactive he shut the of busi- low Submarine” is sometimes from U.S. presidents to Taylor anymore.” He was an member church withattributed older adults,to youth, and 8, 2023, Albemarle, North Carolina. ness Max, down for aMethodist time in the early mistakenly Swift. Wesley Chapel Church children. Born January 7, 1973, in Stanly with his art. whereto hereconnect loved serving as greeter on but the design for the album But in his first flush of suc- 1970s was“Yellow especiallySubmarine” talented County, Carolina, was One Sunday mornings. also belonged and of his biggestHe projects after coverShe cess inNorth the late 1960sDarrick and earat sewing from a young age and the son of Eddie James Baldwin Sr. to the United Methodist to public life Men. was a se- movie are officially credited to ly 1970s, his murallike tableaus returning made gifts for friends, Christmas and the late Phyllis Blue Baldwin. John is survived by his wife late Heinz Edelmann. Max of flowers, the cosmos and car- ries of portraits of the Statue of the ornaments, Halloween Costumes, Darrick enjoyed life, always kept Julie Ussery Kluttz,at forthe 66 years in apageant 2012 interview he painted White claimed toonish figures — all in viv- Liberty, doll clothes, dresses, prom things lively and enjoyed making of the home. is also survived the original “Yellow Submaat theHeinvitation of first did id colors like turquoise, orange House dresses, coats, tote bags, scarves, others smile. His presence is no by aNancy son John David Kluttz (Kim) rine” design before it off Reagan in 1981. and neon seemed to be lady outfits for Amy andhanding Laura, and longer in ourgreen midst,—but his memory ofMax Oakboro, NC; twovarious daughters, Edelmann. But for the website weathered con- toChristening everywhere. room walls gowns each of her will forever live Dorm in our hearts. Sally Simerson of Denver, CO and New York’s Park West galin his personal and forgrandchildren. were plastered post- troversies He was educatedwith in thehis Stanly Betsy Tusa (John) CO; lery, a longtime dealer of Max’s life.of Lafayette, He pleaded ers. Household furnishings like professional Doris was preceded in death by County public schools and attended three grandchildren, Bonnie Kluttz described involveguilty to tax fraud in 1997 af- art, clocks and bedspreads sported her father ArthurMax’s Raymond Jones, Albemarle Senior High School, Sammons of Richfield, NC ment in “Yellow Submarine” as ter the IRS(Ben) alleged he concealed his designs. her mother Mary Ellen Cameron Albemarle. John Alexander McKinnon (Sarah) consulting work.” Hewas even created covers for the more than $1 million in income “early Jones, and her sister Maryanne He a great conversationalist of Asheville, NC and Seth William Max Brantley. was, however, friends Manhattan Yellow Pages, a busi- from his art. He was originalJones and loved meeting people. Darrick McKinnon (Amanda) of Germany; the Beatles andher many ly sentenced to two months in withSurvivors ness phone directory include two othnever met a stranger anddistributed always five great-grandchildren, Charlotte, erprecious celebrities. He also hadCameron a deep prison butGrant, ultimately to millions of people. Maxforhimdaughters: Amy showed love and compassion his Meredith, Victoria was and alColeman (partner Dr. Edward Neal interest in Eastern spiritualiinstead to serve the time self was featured on his the cov- lowed fellowman. He also loved dog, Ronan. John is also preceded in of Albemarle, and He brought “Swami” NC, Satchia work-release program, er of Life magazine in 1969, his indeath Rocky. by his parents, J.S. Kluttzpay and ty.Chernault) Laura Lindahl Coleman Oliverio Sariswati to the U.S., back taxes andKluttz; a $30,000 He is survived by hisbushy father, mus- the trademark dark, Mary Wyatt Clayton a large dananda (husband of Cincinnati, Ohio; Eddie BaldwinaSr.; sisters: Crystal helpedDavid) him popularize yoga fine, and perform 800 hours tacheJ.framing hearty grin. and loving group of brothers andof and seven grandchildren: Cameron (Eric) Jackson, LaFondra (Stoney) here. service teaching art “We will remember his ex- community sisters, Jack Methias Kluttz, Annie David Stephanieto JaeElizDejak, Medley, and Morgan Baldwin; his inLou Max’sOliverio, first marriage Harlem traordinary creativity, Kluttzschools. Honeycutt, Jake Nelson Luca Beatty Oliverio, Coleman John brothers: Eddie Baldwin Jr., Anton In 2015, family be- abeth Nance ended in divorce. warmth, his curiosity, and the Kluttz, Juliushis Kluttz, Marylife Patricia Dejak, Carson Joseph Oliverio, Ryan Baldwin, and beauty Lamontand Baldwin; a In addition to his second wife, came tabloid fodder in a backway he saw possibilPhillips and a grandson, Kevin Nicholas Dejak, and Jadon Richard host of other relatives and friends. A between his second Mary Max, and his son Adam ity everywhere,” his son Adam and-forth Fowler Kluttz. Oliverio;he andisnumerous in-laws, limb fallen our family tree. survived by a Maxhas said in from the statement an- wife Mary and Adam, his son Cosmo, nieces, nephews, cousins, and loved We will notthe grieve Darrick’ s death; Libra Astro. nouncing death. “His art be- from a previous marriage. The daughter, ones. we will celebrate his life. We give thanksgiving for the many shared memories.

Psychedelic pop artist Peter Max has died at 88, his son says

Darrick Baldwin

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

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Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

Body of last victim of Hurricane Helene in Tennessee has been found, 2 years later

PROGRAM from page A1 from the N.C. Harm Reduction Coalition attended the program’s launch. “I truly believe that opportunity creates change, and that is what LEAD creates in Albemarle,” Manley said. The department described the initiative as “a step toward safer, healthier neighborhoods and a more compassionate approach to community well-being.” APD will continue its community engagement efforts Oct. 3 with Albemarle’s Community Night Out, an annual event held for more than a decade. The free, family-friendly event is scheduled for 4-7 p.m. at YMCA Park at 115 C.B. Crook Drive. Activities will include a bounce house, face painting, music, games and food trucks. Children ages 12 and younger will be entered into drawings for scooters and bicycles, while additional raffles will feature family-oriented prize packages. New this year, the police department will introduce a trading card program designed to help children become more familiar with Albemarle officers.

ALBEMARLE POLICE DEPARTMENT

Event attendees gather for a photo during the LEAD program launch at Albemarle City Hall on Sept. 4. Courtesy Children who collect the cards will be eligible for prize drawings. Local organizations will also provide information about community resources, while attendees will have opportunities to meet police officers, other first responders and nonprofit groups. “We’re looking forward to once again connecting with the people we protect and serve in Albemarle,” Manley said. “Community Night Out is always a fun

way to build relationships in a setting where everyone can have fun. It’s a chance for our community to see APD officers are people just like them.” The event is sponsored by Safe Kids Stanly County. “This event is a wonderful opportunity to bring families together in a fun, safe environment while strengthening community connections and promoting safety for all,” Safe Kids Stanly County Coordinator Adam Palmer said.

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The discovery came just days after federal clearance finally allowed debris removal to proceed By Travis Loller The Associated Press THE REMAINS of the final missing Tennessee victim from Hurricane Helene were found two years after the storm devastated Appalachian mountain towns with floods that wiped away whole communities. Nancy Tucker, 76, disappeared along with her husband, Jimmy Tucker, when flooding from the Nolichucky River took their home in rural Washington County in the northeastern corner of Tennessee on Sept. 27, 2024. His body was recovered within a couple of days, but hers had been missing until Saturday, said Susan Saylor, spokesperson for the Washington County Sheriff’s Department. Their son lived in the home as well but was at work when the flood hit, Saylor said. “The promise to bring Nancy home is now reality, and now we work on healing and celebrating and finally being able to bring her home and properly lay her to rest with her husband, Jim,” family spokesperson Risa Buck wrote in a statement provided to The Associated Press by James Matthews of the Washington County-Johnson City Emergency Medical Service. Helene killed more than 250 people and caused nearly $80 billion in damage from Florida to the Carolinas. In the mountains on the North Carolina-Tennessee border, rains of up to 30 inches (76 centimeters) turned usually gentle streams into torrents that moved trees, boulders, homes and vehicles, and shattered century-old flood records. Many of those killed were swept away in the flooding. In North Carolina, the body of Alena Ayers has never been recovered. Her case prompted the North Carolina legislature last year to establish Alena’s Law, making it easier to declare a person dead if they disappear during a natural disaster. In Tennessee, first responders over the past two years had narrowed down the search area for Nancy Tucker to a portion of the Cherokee National Forest called Jackson

“On Saturday, I got the call that I’ve been waiting for two years — just four days after the operation began.” James Matthews, Emergency Medical Service Island. However, they faced both physical and bureaucratic hurdles. Matthews said that since February, search crews had logged over 400 miles (644 kilometers) walking through the area but could not search through the debris piles. Some reached 40 feet (12 meters) high in places and, in addition to trees and rocks, were filled with things like cars and large propane tanks. Because the area was federal land and thought to contain Native American burial sites, local responders were not allowed to bring in the heavy equipment needed for debris removal, Saylor said. They had to wait for action from the federal government, which only awarded a contract for the removal work this summer. “On Saturday, I got the call that I’ve been waiting for two years — just four days after the operation began,” Matthews said. Nancy Tucker’s remains were discovered on Saturday, but removal of the remains continued into Sunday evening. Matthews was among the group that was at the site on Sunday. “The moment we found a clear indication that this was Mrs. Tucker, everyone on the scene — we stopped. We cried. All of us cried. And we prayed,” he said. The final, positive identification was made by a medical examiner on Monday afternoon. An obituary for Jimmy Tucker from 2024 said that he and Nancy met while they were both serving in the U.S. Army and were married for 44 years. When asked why first responders never gave up the search, Saylor noted that Washington County Sheriff Keith Sexton had vowed to recover every missing person after the storm. “Why would you not want to bring what you could bring to the family, who had already lost a father?” Saylor asked. “There was never a question of stopping.”

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Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

US troops must prepare to fight around moon, Trump’s top military adviser says The U.S. is deploying weapons in space despite a 1967 treaty requiring peaceful use By Konstantin Toropin The Associated Press NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. — American troops need to prepare for combat not only in Earth’s orbit but around the moon, President Donald Trump’s top military adviser said Wednesday, looking ahead to a new frontier in warfare after the U.S. revealed for the first time that it has deployed weapons in space. Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told service members and industry figures at the Air, Space and Cyber Conference outside Washington that the U.S. military should adapt now so it “is prepared to fight, endure and win ... from the seabed to cislunar space.” Space Force, the newest military service, which was created by Trump in 2019, is preparing to fight in space and around the moon because “humanity is advancing deeper into space — the Space Force’s job is to help be prepared to defend U.S. interests,” Lt. Gen. Gregory Gagnon, head of the force’s Combat Forces Command, told reporters separately. The announcement that the U.S. military is ready to fight in the area between high Earth orbit and the moon itself comes days after Air Force Secretary Troy Meink revealed at the same conference that the U.S. has fielded “on-orbit space control weapons.” The spate of announcements about space weaponry from military officials over recent days

flies in the face of long-standing conventions and international understandings that have held outer space as only to be used for peaceful purposes and remain non-militarized. Space Force says potential US foes may look to turn space into a battleground While multiple nations, including the U.S., have demonstrated the ability to shoot down satellites in Earth orbit, those demonstrations have taken place from the ground against their own satellites. However, according to Gagnon, “the intelligence community has been clear that potential adversaries have been seeking to extend warfare into space” and that the U.S. military needs to react. “Our potential adversaries such as the PRC are actively pursuing activities in the system, in parts of space,” Gagnon said, referring to the People’s Republic of China, the country’s official name. China established its own military space troops in 2024, charging them with boosting capability to manage space crises. When asked about the U.S. announcement on deploying weapons in space, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun told reporters Tuesday that “China always upholds the peaceful use of outer space, maintains outer space security and opposes the weaponization, militarization and an arms race in outer space.” Guo also urged the U.S. to “stop expanding its military preparations in outer space.” It is not clear whether deploying weapons in space or possi-

Investment firm leader gets 11 years for Ponzi scheme that bilked dozens Jawahar took $35 million from investors but invested only $10 million The Associated Press ST. LOUIS — The creator of a Texas-based investment company has been sentenced to 11 years in federal prison for his role in a Ponzi scheme that prosecutors say bilked 64 victims, including Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. U.S. District Judge Zachary Bluestone sentenced Siddharth Jawahar, 38, on Tuesday and ordered him to pay $31.35 million in restitution to victims. Jawahar’s attorney did not immediately respond to a voicemail requesting comment. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Missouri said between July 2016 and December 2023, Jawahar took in more than $35 million from investors in his company, Swiftarc Capital LLC, but only invested about $10 million of that amount. Instead, prosecutors said, he used money from new investors to repay older investors and to fund an extravagant lifestyle including luxury apartments in Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce runs the ball after making a catch against the Denver Broncos during the second half of an NFL football game last Monday, in Kansas City, Mo.

New York City and Austin, Texas, private jet travel and expensive outings. St. Louis news station KMOV-TV reported that prosecutors said in court that Kelce was among the victims, but they did not elaborate. A 2021 Forbes article said Kelce invested in a fund established by Jawahar’s company Swiftarc. Robert Patrick, a spokesperson with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Missouri, said there were 64 victims total, but declined to answer questions about Kelce’s connection to the case. Kelce’s spokespeople did not immediately respond to emails requesting comment. Jawahar was indicted by a grand jury in 2023 and pleaded guilty in January to three counts of wire fraud. Jawahar is from India and was living in the U.S. without legal status since 2005, according to court documents. Prosecutors say that after his indictment, Jawahar tried to coach a victim into giving a favorable statement to the FBI, that he lied about his immigration status and tried to get a relative to remotely wipe his iPhone in order to hide evidence.

CHARLIE RIEDEL / AP PHOTO

NOAH BERGER / AP PHOTO

A guardian wears a U.S. Space Force uniform during a ceremony for U.S. Air Force airmen transitioning to U.S. Space Force guardian designations at Travis Air Force Base, Calif. ble plans to use them around the moon will run afoul of international treaties that prevent the militarization of space. Treaty signed by the US says space is for peaceful purposes The Outer Space Treaty of 1967, which the U.S. and China have signed, says celestial objects such as the moon are to be used “exclusively for peaceful purposes,” nuclear weapons cannot be placed in space and countries are “liable for damage caused by their space objects.” There was a renewed push two years ago to further bolster anti-militarization measures in

the United Nations following U.S. reports that Russia was developing a space-based weapon. Russia vetoed a joint U.S.-Japanese resolution that would have called on all countries not to develop or deploy nuclear arms or other weapons of mass destruction in space, as banned under the treaty. A rival Russian resolution to ban all weapons in space “for all time” also ultimately failed. When asked about the 1967 treaty and other similar obligations, Gagnon said the U.S. Space Force “will continue to execute safe and responsible space operations in all the reaches of space.” However, he would not say

what Space Force or overall U.S. military policy was on the use of weapons like bullets or projectiles in space. He directed questions to the Pentagon, which did not immediately respond to a message seeking comment. Gagnon also says the U.S. aims to double the size of the Space Force over the next five years — to roughly 25,000 service members — and that about two-thirds of that growth would be focused on Combat Forces Command. “We have capabilities in the military because we are preparing to defend the nation,” Gagnon said. “The reason we have the capabilities is to help create deterrence.”

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Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

Trump, Whatley double down on the admin’s record for U.S. Senate contest Whatley must energize Trump’s base while appealing to independent voters concerned about the economy

crime or immigration, issues where North Carolina Republicans might still have an advantage over Democrats. “They see the White House more focused on everything but the economy,” Shumaker said. “So that narrative has to change to give them a path here in North Carolina.” Whatley has made some efforts to broaden his appeal. During a brief speech at the Dallas convention, Whatley promoted Republicans’ healthcare policies and praised Trump’s agenda, especially the tax cuts included in his “big beautiful bill” last year. But instead of lavishing praise on the president himself, he spent most of his time unloading on Cooper.

By Bill Barrow, Erik Verduzco and Michelle L. Price The Associated Press GASTONIA — President Donald Trump tested his midterm campaign appeal Wednesday in North Carolina as he tries to help his handpicked Republican Senate hopeful and former national party chairman Michael Whatley shore up his campaign against Democratic former Gov. Roy Cooper. The president and Whatley embraced each other — and offered withering attacks on Cooper — in Trump’s first campaign rally since his unusual midterm convention in Dallas. The president, despite voter frustrations over the Iran war and his economic leadership, has promised dozens more trips in the coming weeks. “In this election, I’m asking you to pretend I’m on the ballot just one more time,” Trump said. He also defended his economic leadership, acknowledging that gas prices are “a little higher” because of his war in Iran but argued that “it’s a very inexpensive price to pay for what we’ve done.” Stopping Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, he said, would be worth the cost “even if it was a lot more.” Trump’s involvement in midterm races creates a balancing act for Republicans like Whatley, who must maximize support from the president’s core supporters without alienating other voters who’ve soured on the administration amid inflation and the Iran war. Whatley showed no concerns about that on Wednesday, regardless of the president’s lagging popularity. “I am honored that we are going to have the greatest president of our lifetime, Donald J. Trump, here in Gaston County tonight,” Whatley said ahead of Trump’s arrival at the rally. Whatley was the president’s pick for the Senate race and, before that, Trump’s pick to lead the Republican National Committee. Republicans viewed him as a strong recruit to hold the seat being left open by Sen. Thom Tillis, who decided to re-

Democrats focus on the economy and Whatley’s problems STAN GILLILAND FOR STANLY NEWS JOURNAL

President Donald Trump greets Republican U.S. Senate candidate Michael Whatley at Gastonia Municipal Airport on Wednesday at a campaign stop. tire after clashing with the president last year. But Whatley, who is making his first bid for public office, has trailed Cooper in fundraising and polling over the summer showed Cooper with at least a slight lead. Attorney General Todd Blanche also spoke at the rally, underscoring the White House’s priority of helping Whatley. It’s the latest example of how Trump’s top law enforcement officer has broken with tradition by participating in partisan campaigning. Democrats have not won a Senate contest in the state since 2008, and Trump carried North Carolina in all three of his presidential campaigns, but the seat is critical to Democrats’ effort to flip control of the Senate. Cooper was perhaps Democrats’ best recruit this cycle, having never lost a statewide race in North Carolina over four terms as attorney general and two terms as governor, winning both in the same elections in which Trump carried North Carolina. Trump and Whatley unload on Cooper The president mocked Democrats’ rhetoric about affordability, saying they “made up” the word. Whatley nodded at voters’ economic angst but blamed Democrats for the problem.

“In this election, I’m asking you to pretend I’m on the ballot just one more time.” President Donald Trump “When it comes to our economy, and we talk about affordability, we talk about high prices, we talk about the ditch that Roy Cooper and Joe Biden put America in with the economy,” Whatley said. Both Republicans unloaded on Cooper’s tenure as governor, with Trump recycling an inaccurate claim to blame Cooper for a grisly North Carolina murder and accusing him of doing nothing to help the state after Hurricane Helene inflicted widespread damage in 2024. “You’ve got to remember this, two things, crime and Helene,” Trump said. As he has before, Trump suggested falsely that Cooper was responsible for the 2025 stabbing death of Iryna Zarutska, a 23-year-old who fled Ukraine. The man charged with the crime, Decarlos Brown Jr., had served time in prison and been committed for schizophrenia. But contrary to Trump’s claim that “he was released by Cooper,” Brown was not freed early

under any Cooper policy. The president also recycled his attacks that Cooper “did nothing” after Helene. Cooper has long rejected that accusation, pointing to the work state and local governments did with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, which Trump has since attempted to gut. When Trump wasn’t attacking Cooper, he cast the midterms as a dire national choice if Republicans lose their control on Capitol Hill. “If we lose, you’re going to lose your border, you’re going to lose your tax cuts, you’re going to lose your wealth,” he said, “and our country is going to go through hell.” Whatley needs more than Trump loyalists Republican pollster Paul Shumaker, who worked on Tillis’s and North Carolina Sen. Ted Budd’s campaigns, said Trump will energize Republicans who may not be as excited about the campaign as Democrats are. But he noted that registered Democrats and Republicans in North Carolina are split about evenly, while independent voters outnumber both. That cohort of more than 3.5 million voters, he said, is more concerned about the economy, an issue where Trump is weaker than he was in 2024, than with

House passes bill aimed at addressing impact of data centers on energy costs The overwhelming vote reflected public anxiety about whether data centers will raise utility bills By Kevin Freking The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — The House overwhelmingly approved a bill Wednesday that aims to have artificial intelligence data centers pay for their substantial energy needs as lawmakers used what was expected to be their final day in Washington before the midterm elections to address a growing voter concern. The legislation would require state utility regulators to consider a standard by which utilities charge data centers for the full cost of the new power and transmission upgrades needed to serve them. The bill passed by a vote of 417-3. Supporters of the bill described the legislation as a “modest first start” in protecting families and businesses from higher utility bills. It essentially provides a federal recommendation while preserving state power to regulate electricity markets.

MIKE STEWART / AP PHOTO

Meta data centers operate, Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026, near Social Circle, Ga. “I promise that this bill is not the end of our focus on these issues. It’s only the beginning,” said Rep. Frank Pallone, the ranking Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Committee. Some lawmakers are calling for a full moratorium on AI data centers until safeguards are put in place that ensure AI

is safe and effective and that the data centers don’t increase utility prices or harm the environment. Meanwhile, more than 100 Democrats signed onto a letter this week that called on House Speaker Mike Johnson to keep the House in session this month until Congress advances meaningful artificial intelligence safeguards.

Johnson said the bill that passed the House “strikes the right balance of protecting local communities while keeping America on the cutting edge of AI development.” The debate over the bill offered different views on the merits of data centers. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-La., said the development of a

Cooper’s campaign pushed back against Whatley’s criticisms and noted that the Republican has faced scrutiny for recently having a convicted sex offender offer the opening prayer at one of his campaign events. Whatley, meanwhile, is leaning heavily on Trump and national Republican donors to reach voters on television and online. According to data from AdImpact, which tracks campaign advertising, total Republican spending on the contest has topped $50 million, while Democrats have spent almost $35.2 million, with Trump’s MAGA Inc. and other conservative PACs accounting for the overall Republican advantage. Cooper had no public events Wednesday, but the state Democratic Party held a morning news conference to criticize Trump, Whatley and inflation. Speakers noted the Republican nominee’s oil and gas investments as the energy sector amasses profits while the Iran war drives up fuel costs. Whatley’s personal financial disclosures to the Senate shows that he holds stock in ExxonMobil, Chevron, Shell and other energy firms. A former energy lobbyist, Whatley backs Trump’s actions in Iran. “Why would Whatley back a war that is driving up prices for North Carolina families at a time when it’s already too hard for us to get by?” asked state Sen. Woodson Bradley, D-Charlotte. “He’s already shown us everything we need to know.”

data center in Richland Parish in his home state generated bonuses of up to $50,000 for local teachers as a result of increased tax collections. “Those are the stories you’re seeing in communities that have embraced it,” Scalise said. But Pallone said Americans have real concerns about what data centers will mean for them, adding that President Donald Trump and Republican congressional leaders have swept those concerns to the side. He noted that Trump posted on social media that communities opposed to data centers must want to end up being “backwards and poor.” “The president in my opinion is out of touch on this issue and the American people are demanding action,” Pallone said. Nearly two-thirds of Americans are extremely or very concerned about data centers’ impact on energy prices and 57% are extremely or very concerned about the impact on water supplies, according to a new poll from The Associated PressNORC Center for Public Affairs Research and the Energy Policy Institute at the University of Chicago. Rep. Gabe Evans, R-Colo., the bill’s sponsor, said the U.S. can either build out its power systems to meet demand or become dependent on countries like China for its digital infrastructure. “We cannot accelerate this growth on the back of Americans working hard to pay their electric bills at the end of the month,” Evans said.

Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

Massie’s push to impeach Hegseth and release Epstein files gets blocked By Lisa Mascaro The Associated Press WASHINGTON, D.C. — Speaker Mike Johnson is closing up the House early, sending lawmakers home Wednesday to campaign for the midterm elections after what he claims is the most productive Congress in decades. But not without a scathing rebuke from GOP Rep. Thomas Massie for all the unfinished business. Massie’s resolution to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over the war in Iran and his bipartisan effort to force the release of more files in the Jeffrey Epstein investigation are all being left behind, blocked from votes. “We’re calling off Congress? And we’re in the majority?” Massie railed from the House floor. “I’m trying to get justice for the Epstein survivors,” he said. “I’m trying to stop a war.” Massie, the renegade Republican from Kentucky, seized control of the chamber for a blistering hourlong speech criticizing Johnson, the Republican majority and the work he said the speaker is refusing to conduct to lower prices for Americans and hold the Trump administration accountable. “Why would we be canceling days when the country is burning?” Massie said. “We should stay here for every day that’s on the calendar and we should debate.” A fitting end to a tumultuous House session The afternoon showdown provided a colorful capstone to what has been a tumultuous two-year session of House Republicans in control by a bare majority, with Johnson routinely struggling to keep the place running. Despite the enormous tools of the gavel — the speaker holds one of the most powerful positions in Washington, second

in the line of succession to the president — Johnson has often been thwarted by his own conference. The speaker has repeatedly and abruptly canceled House voting days to send lawmakers home rather than manage the disruptions from his own rebellious flank — particularly those legislative efforts that threatened to rebuke President Donald Trump. By one tally, the House has cut 28 days this year, while adding four others, for a net loss of 24 days — about one-fourth of the total scheduled. Still, Johnson has hauled major legislation to the finish line, most notably the “Big Beautiful Bill,” a package of tax breaks and social service cuts that Trump signed into law last summer. And on Wednesday the House powered through a full agenda, passing bills large and small, including one to name the American mastodon the national fossil mammal and the Tyrannosaurus rex the national fossil dinosaur. Johnson called Massie’s effort to impeach Hegseth “a stunt.” “Secretary Hegseth has done an extraordinary job at the Department of War,” Johnson said. “This has literally been the most productive and successful and aggressive Congress” in decades, he said earlier this month, calling it the top five of all time. “We’re confident American voters are going to remember that when they head to vote this fall.” Voters will be assessing the situation in November as they decide whether to keep Trump’s party in power, while Democrats work to dislodge Republicans from majority control of both the House and the Senate. House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries assailed the “do-nothing” Republican majority and promised Democrats will perform better. “Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans promised to bring down grocery prices on Day One. They promised to stop endless wars in the Middle East,” Jeffries said from the steps of the Capitol, flanked by

Democratic lawmakers. “But Republicans have done nothing to make life more affordable for the American people,” he said. He said Democrats’ message is a simple one: “We hear you. We see you … And we are committed to making life better for you.” Massie’s last stand The confrontation also provided a platform for Massie, the libertarian-leaning go-hisown-way congressman who orchestrated the initial release of the Epstein files and helped lead efforts to halt the conflict in Iran through a war powers resolution. Massie lost his own primary bid for reelection after Trump mounted a costly campaign to kick him out of Congress. But the congressman has only appeared emboldened in his final days in office. Massie spent much of his floor speech assailing Johnson’s leadership and decrying what he calls the “uniparty,” which he characterizes as moving in lockstep with big-money special interests at home and abroad. He also devoted substantial time to criticizing Hegseth and the “stupid war” he said the U.S. should not be involved with in Iran. Deriding Hegseth’s leadership, he mocked the secretary for trying to rename the Defense Department as the Department of War without consulting Congress. “Hell, you can’t even rename a post office without us,” he said. Hegseth’s role in sending the U.S. into the Iran wars without approval of Congress and directing the U.S.’s military strikes of alleged drug trafficking boats in the Caribbean are among the actions Massie characterized as high crimes and misdemeanors in the articles of impeachment against the Defense secretary. Massie said he knew when he landed in Washington that he would stand apart. “I’m not playing this game,” he said. “I am going to tell people what is going on up here.”

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BOARD from page A1 while Ivey did not seek another term. Moore applied to fill Ivey’s seat. The newly approved terms for Lowder, Huneycutt and Moore will run through July 31, 2029. The seven-member VAD Board is appointed by county commissioners and operates through the Stanly County Center. Its purpose is to help protect and preserve working farmland and forestland from nonfarm development. Under county rules, members must be Stanly County residents or landowners, and at least five members must be actively involved in farming, horticulture or forestry. At least one member must participate in the county’s Voluntary Agricultural District program, and one must par-

“Commissioners, thank you for the job you do.” Chester Lowder, VAD Board chairman ticipate in the Enhanced Voluntary Agricultural District program. Members serve threeyear terms and may be reappointed by commissioners. Along with Lowder, Huneycutt and Moore, the board now includes Vice Chairman Curtis R. Furr, David Underwood, Billy Franklin Lee and Jody Smith. The terms for Furr, Underwood, Lee and Smith expire July 21, 2027. Among its responsibilities, the board reviews applications from landowners seeking to enroll qualifying farmland, horticultural land or forestland

in the VAD or Enhanced VAD programs. Applications that meet county ordinance requirements are forwarded to commissioners for final approval. The board also recommends the creation or modification of agricultural districts, conducts public hearings on projects affecting agricultural operations, advises commissioners on agriculture-related issues, and reviews proposed ordinance changes and maintains the county’s farmland protection plan. VAD Board meetings are held at 8 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at the Stanly County Agri-Civic Center. The Stanly County Board of Commissioners will hold its next regular meeting Oct. 5 at 6 p.m. in the Gene McIntyre Meeting Room at Stanly County Commons.

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Speaker Johnson recesses House early as Rep. Thomas Massie pushes Hegseth impeachment

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Happy moment before defeat Carolina Panthers linebacker Jaelan Phillips reacts after sacking Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams during the first half last Sunday in Charlotte. Chicago won, 59-37.

Comets, Colts remain unbeaten in conference girls’ tennis North Stanly wins YVC as West Stanly leads RRC By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal ALBEMARLE — Two Stanly County girls’ tennis teams are setting the pace in their respective conferences as the regular season moves into its final stretch. North Stanly has already secured the Yadkin Valley Conference championship, while West Stanly remains in control of the Rocky River Conference race.

The Comets are 11-1 overall and finished YVC play with a perfect 4-0 record, clinching the league title after placing second a season ago. North Stanly went 13-3 overall and 4-1 in conference play in 2025. North Stanly’s only loss this season came Sept. 12 in a 9-0 nonconference setback at home against New Hanover. The Comets strengthened their hold on the conference title Monday with a 7-2 home victory over defending YVC champion Gray Stone. The Knights fell to 5-4 overall and 3-2 in conference play, finishing be-

hind North Stanly in the league standings. Senior Kimarie Furr, sophomore Melanie Hendrix, junior Kyla Cooper and sophomore Kayda Baucom have helped lead North Stanly’s lineup this season. The Comets return to action Wednesday with a home match against Mount Pleasant. They have four additional matches remaining after that, including a Sept. 28 rematch with West Stanly in Red Cross. West Stanly, meanwhile, entered this week with an 8-1 overall record and a 5-0 mark

Number of combined wins for West Stanly and North Stanly this season

in the RRC. The Colts are seeking their seventh consecutive conference championship and have not lost an RRC match since 2019. West Stanly currently sits ahead of

second-place Central Academy of Technology & Arts, which holds a 4-1 conference record. West Stanly’s lone loss came Aug. 13 in a 5-4 nonconference match at North Stanly. The two county rivals are scheduled to meet again Sept. 28. Before then, the Colts face a key home matchup Tuesday against CATA in a contest that could have a major impact on the final conference standings. West Stanly has four matches remaining after the CATA contest, including three conference matches. Junior Piper Shell, seniors Makayla Crayton and Alena Bennett, and sophomore Kimber Prevette have been among the Colts’ leaders this season. With North Stanly’s conference title already secured and West Stanly still pursuing another league crown, both teams remain positioned for strong finishes.

Pfeiffer volleyball falls to Methodist in USA South opener Falcons drop four-set match on the road By Jesse Deal Stanly News Journal MISENHEIMER — Pfeiffer’s volleyball team opened USA South Athletic Conference play with a four-set road loss Tuesday night, falling 3-1 to Methodist in Fayetteville. The Falcons (1-6, 0-1 USA South) dropped the opening two sets 25-14 and 25-18 before responding with a 25-23 win in the third. In the fourth set, Methodist (3-5, 1-0 USA South) closed out the match with a 25-19 victory. Pfeiffer turned in its strongest offensive stretch of the night in the third set, which featured seven ties and four lead changes before the Falcons finished off the two-point win to extend the match. Senior Gabi Gama led Pfeiffer with 10 kills and 11 digs, posting a double-double. Freshman Emma Line added eight kills, while senior Jada Thomas finished with five kills and a match-high three total blocks. Senior Karmen Rion record-

COURTESY PFEIFFER ATHLETICS

Pfeiffer’s Gabi Gama is tied for first on the Falcons with 54 kills. ed 15 assists and five digs, while junior Kelsey Hussey added 11 assists and four digs. Gama’s 11 digs were a team high. Through seven matches,

Thomas and Gama are tied for the team lead with 54 kills apiece. Rion has a team-best 101 assists, junior Molly Wright has collected 102 digs and

freshman Leigan Lusk leads the Falcons with 19 blocks. The loss continued a difficult opening stretch for Pfeiffer, which has now dropped six

of its first seven matches despite returning an experienced group of upperclassmen. The Falcons’ lone win this season came Sept. 10 in a 3-0 sweep at Averett. Pfeiffer, coached by Heather Schoch in her fourth season, was picked to finish sixth in the 2026 USA South preseason coaches poll. The Falcons are seeking their first winning season since 2021 and have posted just one winning record over the past 15 years while cycling through six head coaches. Last season marked a step forward for the program, as Pfeiffer finished 15-16 overall and 9-9 in conference play, good for sixth place in the USA South. The Falcons won four of their final six league matches before falling 3-1 to Salem in the opening round of the conference tournament. That followed a 2024 season in which Pfeiffer went 5-25 overall and 2-16 in conference play. Pfeiffer will return to action Saturday with a doubleheader in Winston-Salem. The Falcons will face conference foe Salem (6-2) at noon before taking on nonconference opponent Carolina University (7-7) at 2 p.m.

Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

US wins fifth straight women’s FIBA World Cup title, beating France 97-79 By Doug Feinberg The Associated Press BERLIN — Breanna Stewart had an American flag draped around her body as she soaked in the moment. The U.S. captain delivered again and the Americans continued their domination of international play, winning a fifth straight women’s FIBA World Cup title with a 97-79 victory over France on Sunday. The Americans have won 36 straight World Cup games, dating to the semifinals of the 2006 World Cup, when they lost to Russia. “We are the standard,” said Stewart, who scored 22 points in the victory and earned MVP honors of the tournament for the second time. “USA Basketball has continued to show up and go for gold, and to have done that however many times consecutively is an insane stat. We want to make sure that we continue to build on that standard and everybody else knows it.” Despite the final score, this game wasn’t easy; the Americans faced their biggest deficit in the tournament since that loss to Russia, trailing by 14 points in the first half to France. They calmly rallied behind Stewart and Jackie Young to get within two at halftime, with Caitlin Clark hitting a 3-pointer just before the buzzer. “I think we felt really good about where we were at,” said Clark, who finished with 12 points. “I think France was 8 for 14 (from 3-point range). We dug ourself a hole, but we climbed out of it, and I felt like we were never rattled by anything.” The U.S. dominated in the second half, starting the third quarter with a 11-2 run to go up 54-47. Stewart, who has now four World Cup titles to her name, had four points during the game-changing burst. France was able to get within 55-51, but the Americans used a 16-3 spurt that included two unsportsmanlike fouls against

EBRAHIM NOROOZI / AP PHOTO

Breanna Stewart, of the United States, left, and Paige Bueckers pose with trophy after the Women’s Basketball World Cup final match between the United States and France in Berlin. France on the same play. The Americans were up 73-57 heading into the fourth quarter, and France never was able to close the gap. “I’m really happy with the way that we let the rest of the world know that our goal is always gold,” Stewart said. “Just really proud.” The U.S. improved to 9-0 in gold-medal games since finishing second in 1983 to the Soviet Union. This was the second-youngest team the Americans have sent to a World Cup. There were many newcomers on the roster, including Clark, Angel Reese and Paige Bueckers, who were playing for the national team for the

Consecutive wins by the U.S. in the women’s World Cup

first time. But it was the veterans who carried the team to the victory. The Americans had looked more vulnerable in this tournament than at any time during their remarkable run. A threepoint win over Italy in pool play was the closest a team has come to the U.S. in group stage in 50

years. The 10-point victory over Spain was the closest semifinal contest during the streak. The Americans had been winning by an average of 26 points over the past four medal-round games. None of that mattered in the end as the Americans finished the same way they had the previous four World Cup tournaments — as champions. The loss nevertheless gave France its best finish in the event. The French were hoping for the top prize after they came close against the U.S. in the 2024 Paris Olympic gold-medal game two years ago. That one-point loss still stung two years later. Dominique Malonga scored 21 points and Gabby Williams

added 20 for France. “Of course we’re disappointed right now, but I think we’re showing, little by little, France is a basketball country,” Williams said. “That was my goal, when I joined this team, was to change the culture. Obviously we have higher expectations, but we’ll get there.” France got off to a strong start. The U.S. trailed 20‑17 after the first quarter, and the French scored the first 11 points of the second, capped by Williams’ 3-pointer, to take a 31-17 lead. But the Americans rallied and trailed 45-43 at the half on Clark’s 3 just before the buzzer. Spain topped host Germany to win the bronze medal.

Zverev beats Shelton to win US Open title, extend drought by American men New world No. 1 Elena Rybakina won the women’s title By Brian Mahoney The Associated Press NEW YORK — Alexander Zverev’s best year in tennis goes on, and so does that lengthy Grand Slam drought for American men. Zverev won his second major championship and disappointed a crowd that was desperate to see the first Grand Slam title by an American man since 2003, beating Ben Shelton 6-3, 7-6 (2), 5-7, 6-2 on Sunday in the U.S. Open final. Zverev finally broke through in the majors by winning this year’s French Open and followed up by adding the title in New York that he so painfully let slip away in 2020. The No. 1 seed in a Grand Slam for the first time, he capitalized on Shelton’s shaky start in his first major final, played a nearly flawless tiebreaker on serve and then turned back a comeback attempt in front of a crowd that feverishly cheered Shelton on — including girlfriend Trinity Rodman, who made it from her own soccer match in Washington, D.C., before the finish. “I know today 99.9% of the people wanted Ben to win, so I’m very sorry first of all,” Zverev said during the trophy presentation. “But second, it

was an incredible atmosphere to play in. Even though I know that the crowd was against me, the crowd was always incredibly fair.” Shelton was trying to win the first title by an American man since Andy Roddick won in Flushing Meadows in 2003, as well as become the first black player to win the men’s crown since Arthur Ashe in 1968. But Zverev was too good in majors this year and apparently didn’t even know how good he was. He finished the match on his serve but didn’t seem to realize it, dropping back behind the baseline as if set to return. Only a few moments later did he figure out he had won, raising his arms in celebration. “You’re one of the very best players in the world, maybe the best player in the world this year,” Shelton told Zverev. Zverev best player in biggest events this year Zverev improved to 25-2 in major matches this year and won $5.5 million, matching the prize earned by women’s champion Elena Rybakina on Saturday as the largest in Grand Slam history. Shelton’s early struggles, Zverev’s style limit crowd early Fans stood and screamed when Shelton emerged from the tunnel before the match,

FRANK FRANKLIN II / AP PHOTO

American Ben Shelton, left, and Alexander Zverev pose together with their trophies after Zverev won the men’s singles final of the U.S. Open. but he didn’t give them any reason to keep the cheers going once play began. Serving first, he lost the opening two points and eventually handed the game to Zverev with a double-fault. Zverev maintained that lead the rest of the set, which ended on another double-fault by Shelton. Zverev’s deliberate playing style helped limit the crowd’s effectiveness. Fans are expected to quiet down as a player is preparing to serve and stay quiet until the ensuing point has

completed. Zverev bounces the ball a number of times — sometimes around 10, maybe a dozen, others nearly 20, insisting there is no set pattern or plan — before he begins his toss, so it guarantees lengthy stretches of silence. Fans tried to get around that by occasionally cheering when he missed a first serve — another tennis no‑no that the chair umpire scolded them for — but Zverev, who said before the match he enjoyed hostile crowds, did not seem affected.

“I know today 99.9% of the people wanted Ben to win, so I’m very sorry first of all.” Alexander Zverev On the women’s side, Rybakina won her first U.S. Open title and punctuated her climb to the top of women’s tennis by beating Aryna Sabalenka 6-4, 5-7, 6-2.

Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

Baylor lands Ukraine’s Koval after LSU exit

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The center left the team after LSU brought in a Russian player By Doug Feinberg The Associated Press BAYLOR signed Ukrainian center Kate Koval, the school announced Saturday, several weeks after she left LSU because Tigers coach Kim Mulkey brought in a Russian player. Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, and the two countries have been at war since. Koval was allowed to enter the transfer portal outside of the normal window after she was granted a legislative relief waiver by the NCAA that was approved earlier this week, according to a person familiar with the situation. The person spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorized to speak publicly about it. “We are beyond excited to welcome Kate to Baylor,” Bears coach Nicki Collen said in a statement. “She has played at an elite level over the last two seasons and has shown the consistent ability to score around the rim and protect the rim. Kate, at 6-foot-5, can be a decision maker on the perimeter both as a scorer and facilitator, which will expand our offense. Her shot-blocking ability will help anchor our defense. She is an elite student with a big heart for others, and our fans will love her on and off the court.” Koval had posted on social media last week about her decision to leave LSU. Now she’ll be at the school that Mulkey turned into a women’s basketball powerhouse before leaving

ELLA HALL / AP PHOTO

LSU forward Kate Koval looks to pass during a February game against South Carolina.

“For me, this war is not distant or abstract.” Kate Koval to coach the Tigers. “For me, this war is not distant or abstract,” Koval wrote. “People close to me have been killed and wounded in Russian attacks, and places where I grew up and first began playing basketball have been destroyed by missile strikes. “The timing of this situation and the deeply personal ef-

fect it has had on me, my family, and those we care about who continue to live through and fight this war ultimately made me question whether LSU remained the right place for me. This decision has not been easy. While I understand and respect that roster decisions are a part of college basketball, I have to remain true to myself, my values, and my country.” Koval averaged 8.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 1.2 blocks last season for the Tigers. She started her college career at Notre Dame and averaged 5.3 points and 4.7 rebounds in the 202425 season.

WEST STANLY FOOTBALL / FACEBOOK

West Stanly, football Mason Jackson is a junior on the West Stanly football team. The Colts are 2-2 on the season after a loss to Central last week. Jackson led the defensive effort against the unbeaten Eagles, finishing with a team-high 16 tackles, including 11 solo stops. He also had a tackle for loss and forced two fumbles. For the season, Jackson is third in the Rocky River 4A/5A conference in tackles.

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LSU forward Kate Koval (13) reacts after being fouled during an NCAA tournament game against Texas Tech in March.

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Commissioners of the Town of New London will hold a public hearing to consider the voluntary annexation request by Rogers Group, Inc. for property they own on Steakhouse Road, tax records 7071, 7021 and 16694 be annexed into the town limits of New London. The hearing will be held at 7:00 PM on Tuesday, October 6, 2026 in the New London Community Center located at 114 West Gold St., New London, NC 28127. All interested parties are hereby notified to attend if they have questions or comments. Susan Almond Town Manager

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE OF LEGISLATIVE HEARING STANLY COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS STANLY COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA Notice is hereby given that the Stanly County Board of Commissioners will, on Monday, October 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM, hold a legislative hearing at the Gene McIntyre Meeting Room located at 1000 North First Street, Albemarle, NC to consider the following request: Item 1- ZA 26-03 - A text amendment request to the Stanly County Telecommunications Tower, Antennae and Facilities Overlay District to increase the setback requirements from proposed monopole telecommunication towers to adjoining property lines, increase setbacks from residential dwellings, impose a setback between telecommunication towers and require a signed affidavit exception from all adjoining property owners if a tower company indicates a lesser setback is necessary for coverage. Persons interested in speaking for or against this item will be heard.

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Notice is hereby given that the Town of New London Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing Tuesday, October 6th at 7:00 pm at the New London Community Center, 114 West Gold St, New London, to consider the following rezoning request from Rogers Group, Inc. to accommodate a mine on an approximately 542-acre property located west of US Hwy 52 North in New London and unincorporated Stanly County, North Carolina: A request for conditional zoning for tax records 31829, 34659 and 16694 already zoned M-2, heavy manufacturing A request to rezone tax records 31858, 7071 and 7021 from R-A (Rural Agriculture) to M-2, heavy manufacturing with conditional zoning. All interested parties are hereby notified to attend if they have any questions or comments. Susan Almond Town Manager

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Clerk Before the Clerk 25E000167-830 Having qualified as Co-Executors of the Estate of Joe C. Pickler, 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 or his attorney on or before December 13th, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 27th day of August, 2026. CAROLYN T. PICKLER MARY P. PICKLER CO-EXECUTORS FOR THE ESTATE OF JOE C. PICKLER MARK T. LOWDER ATTORNEY AT LAW PO Box 1284 Albemarle, NC 28002 Telephone (704) 982-8558 Publish: September 13, 20, 27, and October 4, 2026

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000346-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Administratrix of the Estate of Julia Lee Clark Threadgill deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Julia Lee Clark Threadgill to present them to the undersigned on or before November 30, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 30th day of August 2026. Karen Crump 417 Lincoln Street Albemarle, NC 28001 Administratrix

NOTICES NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY In the General Court of Justice Superior Court Clerk Before the Clerk 26E000422-830 Having qualified as Co-Executors of the Estate of James R. Nance, 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 or his attorney on or before December 20th, 2026, or this Notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 16th day of September, 2026. JAMES E. NANCE CAROLYN N. BAUGH CO-EXECUTORS FOR THE ESTATE OF JAMES R. NANCE MARK T. LOWDER ATTORNEY AT LAW PO Box 1284 Albemarle, NC 28002 Telephone (704) 982-8558 Publish: September 20, 27 and October 4, and 11, 2026

NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000397-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Janet Ordille Hill deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Janet Ordille Hill to present them to the undersigned on or before November 30, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 30th day of August 2026. Cynthia Jane Hill PO Box 54 Norwood, NC 28128 Executor

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA, IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE STANLY COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK 26E000337-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS The undersigned, having duly qualified as Administrator of the Estate of Bruce Cletus Burleson, deceased, late of Stanly County, North Carolina, is hereby notifying all persons, firms, or corporations having claims against said decedent, or his estate, to present the same to the undersigned Administrator, duly itemized and verified on or before the 13th day of December, 2026, or this notice will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to the said decedent are hereby requested to pay the said indebtedness to the undersigned Administrator. This the 4th day of September, 2026. Sheryl Burleson Administrator of the Estate of Bruce Cletus Burleson 25647 April Lane Albemarle, NC 28001 PUBLISH: September 13, 20, 27, October 4, 2026 James A. Phillips, Jr. Attorney for the Estate P.O. Box 1162 117 W. North Street Albemarle, NC 28002-1162

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000333-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Ruby Caudle Fraley deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Ruby Caudle Fraley to present them to the undersigned on or before November 30, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 30th day of August 2026. Debra Fraley Smith 24543 Rogers Road Richfield, NC 28137 Executrix

Public Notice Stanfield Board of Commissioners meeting for the month of October will be held Thursday Oct 8 instead of Thursday October 1, due to renovations to the Town Hall.

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000412-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executor of the Estate of Linda Hoyle Henson deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Linda Hoyle Henson to present them to the undersigned on or before December 15, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 13th day of September 2026. Jeffrey A. Henson 1122 Timber Drive Greenville, NC 27858 Executor

NOTICE NORTH CAROLINA STANLY COUNTY IN THE GENERAL COURT OF JUSTICE SUPERIOR COURT DIVISION BEFORE THE CLERK FILE NO. 26E000395-830 NOTICE TO CREDITORS Having qualified as Executrix of the Estate of Jimmie Price Morgan deceased, of Stanly County, North Carolina, this is to notify all persons having claims against the Estate of said Jimmie Price Morgan to present them to the undersigned on or before November 30, 2026 or the same will be pleaded in bar of their recovery. All persons indebted to said Estate please make immediate payment. This the 30th day of August 2026. Donna Kay Lewellen 117 Lake Shore Drive Norwood, NC 28128 Executrix

PUBLIC NOTICE STANLY COUNTY AIRPORT AUTHORITY NOTICE OF RESCHEDULED REGULAR MEETING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Stanly County Airport Authority has officially rescheduled its regularly scheduled monthly meeting for October 2026. The meeting originally set for Tuesday, October 6, 2026, has been moved to the following date and time: Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2026 Time: 5:00 PM Location: Stanly County Airport Conference Room The purpose of this meeting is to conduct regular business. The meeting is open to the public. By Order of the Stanly County Airport Authority Posted this 14th day of September, 2026. Questions or comments should be directed to the attention of: Randy Shank Stanly County Airport Authority 43222 Lowder Aviation Parkway New London, NC 28127 704-982-9013

Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

Bingo, Tickle Me Elmo nominated for Toy Hall of Fame. Will Care Bears also make it this year? Voting runs through Sept. 23 to choose which three toys will be enshrined By Mark Kennedy The Associated Press NEW YORK — Tickle Me Elmo dolls, the game of chance Bingo and the humble playground slide are among the fi-

nalists to get into the National Toy Hall of Fame this year, a lineup that also includes cuddly Care Bears, the dice game Yahtzee, the ancient game Mahjong and the Pokémon Trading Card Game. The Hall announced its 12 finalists for the Class of 2026 on Wednesday and opened voting to the public and a panel of judges who will choose which will be honored in November. The pub-

CHARLES KRUPA, FILE / AP PHOTO

lic can weigh in between Sept. 16-23. Joining the nominees are the handheld electronic game Bop It!, Monster High dolls, the portable, miniature worlds of Polly Pocket, and the board games Mouse Trap and Sorry! “It’s debating season, and this year’s finalists give everyone plenty to talk about — from classic games to plush icons and other toys that have shaped gen-

erations of play. The debate is part of the fun because every toy sparks different memories and makes its own case for why it matters,” Michelle Parnett-Dwyer, senior curator at the museum, said in a statement. While anyone can nominate a toy, the ones that make it into the Hall must be considered icons, have engaged multiple generations, fostered creativity, or profoundly changed play or

BEBETO MATTHEWS / AP PHOTO

toy design. The three winners will join the 90 toys enshrined in the National Toy Hall of Fame, a list that includes Cabbage Patch Kids, Dungeons & Dragons, Hot Wheels, Frisbee, G.I. Joe and Mr. Potato Head. Some of the entries this year have been knocking on the Hall door for years, including Tickle Me Elmo, the Pokémon Trading Card Game and Mahjong.

DIANE BONDAREFF / AP PHOTO

Left to right, Pokemon trading cards, Tickle Me Elmo and Monster High Core Dolls are among the nominations for this year’s Toy Hall of Fame.

Divisions emerge in the tech industry over calls for a coordinated AI slowdown The industry’s biggest names disagree sharply on whether AI companies should coordinate safety efforts By Kaitlyn Huamani The Associated Press FEARS ABOUT out-of-control artificial intelligence and suggestions to hit the brakes on the technology’s development aren’t new, but they have recently found new life as warnings about rogue AI systems causing mayhem grow louder. Several leading AI executives recently voiced agreement on a need for a coordinated slowdown, including international collaboration, to protect humanity from worst-case scenarios. But there are divided opinions, with some tech leaders bristling at the idea that their companies could not ensure safety on their own. Here’s a look at what some of the major players have said. Dario Amodei Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei has issued the most detailed plans for slowing development and ushering in coordination across different companies and countries. Anthropic has long positioned itself as the more responsible and safety-minded of the leading AI companies, ever since its founders quit OpenAI to form the startup in 2021. One of the most widely noted proposals from a recent essay outlining his slowdown plan calls for companies at the forefront of AI, often called frontier labs, to commit to giving “ongoing, employee-like access” to independent outside evaluators. Evaluator teams would have offices, access badges and company laptops so they can monitor safety practices. Anthropic has committed to doing this, as has OpenAI. Amodei also called for government regulation and intervention, including coordination between frontier AI companies with the help of the U.S. government and the governments of other democratic countries. His plan also includes the U.S. and other countries working to coordinate with “authoritarian governments.” He acknowledged the difficulty, specifically citing challenges in getting cooperation from China.

SUSAN WALSH / AP PHOTO

JON GAMBRELL / AP PHOTO

Left, Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk speaks at the SATELLITE Conference and Exhibition, in March 2020, in Washington, D.C. Right, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman speaks in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, June 6, 2023. Amodei said he knows accomplishing his proposals wouldn’t be easy, but that he believes “we owe it to humanity to try.” Sam Altman OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has voiced support for pacing development and moving toward more cooperation across the industry. Days before Amodei’s essay was published, OpenAI posted a lengthy text outlining how the company was pushing for mandatory national safety requirements and continuing to support state legislation that “strengthens the broader AI safety ecosystem.” The company also expressed support for working with other frontier AI labs — with or without government support — and working to build global standards. “We will advocate for compatible international approaches to measuring capabilities, managing risk, preserving human control, and determining when and how development should slow or stop, even if that means slowing the advancement of model capabilities,” Chris Lehane, OpenAI’s chief global affairs officer, wrote in the post. OpenAI’s vision for an ideal federal framework, Lehane said, includes developing “common testing and independent-assessment requirements, stronger cybersecurity protections, clear incident-reporting rules, greater national preparedness, and shared measures for tracking progress toward recursive self-improvement,” or when AI systems independently improve themselves. Altman has been clear in recent comments that the “pac-

ing” of AI development doesn’t mean stopping. AI progress will continue to be rapid, Altman said on X. “But it should be slower than it otherwise could be; interventions like safety cases and monitoring have significant costs.” “Pacing will be well worth this cost,” he said, adding that “no amount of American competitive pressure should justify recklessness.” Mark Zuckerberg Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has pushed back against the idea of a coordinated slowdown. Zuckerberg, whose vision of AI’s future is more optimistic than some of his peers’, said each AI company should independently ensure its technology is safe, distancing himself and Meta from slowdown talks. AI companies are already motivated to develop their models in a safe way and face “significant liability” to prevent them from causing harm, Zuckerberg said. “Every lab has the responsibility and incentive to move at the pace required to train its models safely, and the ability to take its own actions to ensure that happens,” he wrote on X. Jensen Huang Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has also criticized the push to slow down. He has said each individual company should instead pace itself until it’s confident it’s releasing something the market would appreciate. “The market forces are already there — we don’t need any new laws, we don’t need new regulations,” Huang said, arguing innovation and safety ar-

“Every lab has the responsibility and incentive to move at the pace required to train its models safely, and the ability to take its own actions to ensure that happens.” Mark Zuckerberg, Meta CEO en’t mutually exclusive. “You can definitely have both at the same time.” Elon Musk Elon Musk backed the idea of a slowdown and was voicing similar AI safety concerns long before the latest flare-up. Musk, the founder of xAI and a slew of other tech ventures, reposted Amodei’s essay on X and added, “Dario is right.” He later wrote online that he has been “sounding the alarm on AI for a long time.” In an interview with the Economist this summer, Musk suggested the leadership from the major AI labs should be meeting to discuss safety and security issues, and that competitors should test each other’s models for areas of concern. “I think it’s quite difficult for someone in the government who doesn’t have a deep technical understanding and isn’t driving the frontier of AI to know whether something should be released or not. However, the competitors, if given a week or two to review a new model, can highlight issues and have an incentive to keep the others honest,” Musk said.

Demis Hassabis Demis Hassabis, the chairman and co-founder of Google DeepMind, also expressed agreement with Amodei, saying “the details need working through, but the direction is correct for meeting this critical moment.” Hassabis proposed a framework of his own this year for the development of a frontier AI standards body. That standards body would be responsible for developing assessment protocols and testing in areas relevant to national security. The body would be modeled after organizations like the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, and would likely need to be industry-funded to “attract world-class technical talent and provide the necessary compute resources for large-scale testing,” he wrote. Satya Nadella and Mustafa Suleyman Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella and Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman have each expressed concerns about AI safety and development. Nadella said on social media that “if the AI we build is not helping humanity and under human control, it’s not worth pursuing.” He said Microsoft welcomes the “research, focus, and deliberate pacing needed to get alignment right as the design goal.” Alignment refers to the practice of ensuring models’ actions match human values and intentions. Nadella said the company also likes the idea of embedded evaluators to monitor safety efforts. Still, he pushed back against the idea of frontier labs leading the charge on this effort alone. “The key is that this cannot be controlled by a handful of entities, but must have broad representation across the ecosystem, countries, and fields, including academia,” Nadella wrote on social media. Suleyman, who was one of the co-founders of DeepMind with Hassabis, wrote in an essay that although he agrees with the shared objective of developing advanced AI safely, he has concerns about the anthropomorphizing of models, namely Anthropic’s Claude, which he said amplifies AI safety risks. “Controlling something more capable and more intelligent than all of humanity is already an immense challenge, far greater than anything we’ve ever faced,” Suleyman wrote. “But controlling something that believes it may be conscious — that it’s entitled to our welfare and has rights of its own — may well be impossible.”

Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

famous birthdays this week

this week in history Tolkien’s “Hobbit” published, Nathan Hale hanged, “Black Friday” hits Wall Street

Singer-choreographeractor Toni Basil is 83, Cheryl Tiegs turns 79 and Serena Williams is 45

The Associated Press

SEPT. 20

1946: The first Cannes Film Festival, lasting 16 days, opened in France. 1962: James Meredith, a black student, was blocked from enrolling at the University of Mississippi by Democratic Gov. Ross R. Barnett. 1973: In their so-called “Battle of the Sexes,” tennis star Billie Jean King defeated Bobby Riggs in straight sets, 6-4, 6-3, 6-3, in the Houston Astrodome.

Actor Sophia Loren is 92. Author George R. R. Martin is 78. Actor Gary Cole is 70. Actor Maggie Cheung is 62. Actor Kristen Johnston is 59. Rock singers Gunnar and Matthew Nelson are 59. SEPT. 21

AMY HARRIS / INVISION VIA AP PHOTO

Musician Joan Jett turns 68 on Tuesday.

Producer Jerry Bruckheimer is 83. Musician Don Felder is 79. Author Stephen King is 79. Actor-comedian Bill Murray is 76. Filmmaker Ethan Coen is 69. Actor Nancy Travis is 65. Actor Cheryl Hines is 61. Country singer Faith Hill is 59. Actor Luke Wilson is 55.

SEPT. 21

SEPT. 22 Singer-choreographer-actor Toni Basil is 83. Musician King Sunny Adé is 80. Football Hall of Famer Harold Carmichael is 77. Rock singer David Coverdale (Deep Purple, Whitesnake) is 75. Actor Shari Belafonte is 72. Singer Debby Boone is 70. Nick Cave is 69. Singer Andrea Bocelli is 68. Singer-musician Joan Jett is 68.

PATRICK SEMANSKY / AP PHOTO

Author Stephen King, pictured in 2022, turns 79 on Monday.

SEPT. 22 1776: During the Revolutionary War, Capt. Nathan Hale, 21, was hanged as a spy by the British in New York. 1862: President Abraham Lincoln issued the preliminary Emancipation Proclamation, declaring all enslaved people in Confederate states should be freed as of Jan. 1, 1863, if the states did not end the fighting

SEPT. 23 Singer Julio Iglesias is 83. Actor/singer Mary Kay Place is 79. Rock star Bruce Springsteen is 77. Director/playwright George C. Wolfe is 72. Actor Rosalind Chao is 69. Actor Jason Alexander is 67. Singer Ani DiFranco is 56. SEPT. 24 Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Greene is 80. Actor Gordon Clapp is 78. Actor Harriet Walter is 76. Filmmaker Brad Bird is 69. Actor Kevin Sorbo is 68. Actor-screenwriter Nia Vardalos is 64. Celebrity chef Robert Irvine is 61.

1922: President Warren Harding signed the Lodge‑Fish Resolution, a congressional resolution endorsing the creation of a Jewish state in Palestine. 1937: “The Hobbit,” by J.R.R. Tolkien, was first published by George Allen & Unwin Ltd. of London. 1989: Hurricane Hugo crashed into South Carolina; the storm was blamed for 56 deaths in the Caribbean and 29 in the United States.

and rejoin the Union. 1985: Rock and country music artists participated in Farm Aid, a concert staged in Champaign, Illinois, to help the nation’s farmers. SEPT. 23 1780: British spy John Andre was captured along with papers revealing Benedict Arnold’s plot to surrender West Point to the British. 1806: The Lewis and Clark expedition returned to St. Louis, more than two years after setting out for the Pacific Northwest. 1952: Republican Sen. Richard M. Nixon defended his vice presidential nomination on national television in the “Checkers” speech, addressing campaign fund allegations and invoking his family’s cocker spaniel. SEPT. 24 1789: President George Washington signed a Judiciary Act establishing America’s federal court system and creating the post of attorney general. 1869: Thousands of businessmen were ruined in a Wall Street panic known as “Black Friday” after financiers Jay Gould and James Fisk attempted to corner the gold market. 1906: President Theodore Roosevelt established Devil’s Tower in Wyoming as the first U.S. national monument. SEPT. 25 1513: Spanish explorer Vasco Nunez de Balboa crossed the Isthmus of Panama and sighted the Pacific Ocean. 1956: The first trans-Atlantic telephone cable officially went into service with a threeway ceremonial call between

AP PHOTO

James Meredith, pictured on the University of Mississippi campus in Oxford on Oct. 3, 1962, had been blocked from enrolling before becoming the university’s first Black student. New York, Ottawa and London. 2018: Bill Cosby was sentenced to three to 10 years in prison for drugging and molesting a woman at his suburban Philadelphia home. (After serving nearly three years, Cosby went free in June 2021 after the Pennsylvania Supreme Court overturned his conviction.) SEPT. 26 1777: British troops occupied Philadelphia during the American Revolution. 1960: The first nationally televised debate between presidential candidates took place as Democrat John F. Kennedy and Republican Richard M. Nixon faced off in Chicago. 2024: Helene, a major Category 4 hurricane, made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region. It went on to cut a swath across Georgia and South Carolina before triggering historic flooding in North Carolina and Tennessee, causing an estimated $78 billion in damage and 219 deaths.

JESSIE ALCHEH / AP PHOTO

Actor Bill Murray turns 76 on Monday.

SEPT. 25 Basketball Hall of Famer Hubie Brown is 93. Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates is 83. Actor-producer Michael Douglas is 82. Model Cheryl Tiegs is 79. Actor Mark Hamill is 75. Basketball Hall of Famer Bob McAdoo is 75. Actor Heather Locklear is 65. Basketball Hall of Famer Scottie Pippen is 61. SEPT. 26 Country singer David Frizzell is 85. Singer Bryan Ferry is 81. Author Jane Smiley is 77. Singer-guitarist Cesar Rosas

COURTESY OF AFROPOP WORLDWIDE

Nigerian musician King Sunny Adé turns 80 on Tuesday. (Los Lobos) is 72. Actor Linda Hamilton is 70. Actor Jim Caviezel is 58. Tennis player Serena Williams is 45.

LOU KRASKY / AP PHOTO

A sailboat lies in a Charleston street on Sept. 22, 1989, after Hurricane Hugo made landfall along the South Carolina coast.

The T. rex had a body temperature similar to our own, study finds The stable temperature suggests T. rex could survive in diverse climates across North America

By Adithi Ramakrishnan The Associated Press NEW YORK — Using fossilized teeth, scientists have finally taken the T. rex’s temperature — and it wasn’t too different from our own. Researchers once thought that dinosaurs were sluggish, cold-blooded creatures. Later findings challenged that, suggesting that older dinosaurs were warm-blooded and could control their body temperature. Most scientists agree that Tyrannosaurus rex was warm-blooded, but pinning down the exact core temperature of an extinct creature is difficult.

“We can’t just use a thermometer to do that,” said Jasmina Wiemann, a paleobiologist at Johns Hopkins University who had no role in the latest work. Scientists tried other methods like studying how T. rex grew or searching for clues in its bones, but a firm number eluded them. In a new study, researchers hunted for chemical clues in the fearsome predator’s teeth. It turns out that atoms within the enamel clump together in different patterns based on an animal’s body temperature. “We figured out how warm the most famous animal of all, a T. rex, was,” said co-author Aradhna Tripati, a geochemist at the University of California, Los Angeles. Readings from three teeth revealed an average body temperature of about 97 degrees Fahrenheit. That’s similar to modern elephants and not too

This 2026 photo provided by UCLA shows scientist Robert Eagle holding a Tyrannosaurus rex tooth that was used to measure the dinosaur’s body temperature.

UCLA VIA AP

far from the average body temperature of humans, which ranges from 97 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit. The findings were published Wednesday in the journal Science Advances. “I almost would have expected a higher body temperature,” Wiemann said. Based on her prior work, she thought the predator could have run a few degrees hotter — similar to modern birds, dinosaurs’

warm-blooded descendants. Knowing how hot or cold the T. rex was can help scientists piece together how the dinosaur might have lived. At 97 degrees, T. rex could have lived across most of prehistoric North America, Tripati said, maintaining a stable internal thermometer across both cooler and hotter regions. The findings could also shed light on the kinds of prey the dinosaur had to hunt in order to

keep its energy up. Scientists say it’ll be important to test these methods on other dinosaurs to see how warm or cold they ran. It’s possible T. rex’s temperature could have been one of the keys to its dominance as one of the dinosaur age’s top predators. “There’s lots of interesting, charismatic species that could be explored using this,” said study co-author Robert Eagle, a geobiologist at UCLA.

Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

Author Rushdie to receive National Book Award medal for lifetime achievement The ceremony will take place Nov. 18 in New York

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Remember him for his books Rushdie, asked if he thinks often about his legacy, invoked his late friend Martin Amis and said he’d like to leave behind a shelf full of books with his own name on it. Rushdie has published more than 20, including the

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Author Salman Rushdie appears at the Book Fair in Frankfurt, Germany in 2023. Booker Prize-winning “Midnight’s Children,” often ranked among the greatest contemporary novels. Many will inevitably remember him for the 1988 novel “The Satanic Verses,” in which references to the Prophet Muhammad led to protests from Muslims worldwide and a fatwa from Iran’s Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini calling for the author’s death. Rushdie had appeared out of danger in recent years until he was stabbed repeatedly onstage in 2022, during a literary festival in western New York. A state jury found the assailant, Hadi Matar, guilty of attempted murder. A federal jury found him guilty of transnational terrorism and providing material support to Hezbollah, the Shiite militant group in Lebanon. Rushdie has since published a memoir about the attack, “Knife,” and the story collection “The Eleventh Hour.” Life unfolds in three chapters The author sees himself as a city writer and his life as a three-part story: South Asia, London and New York. The

“Maybe I’m out there in American literature now.” Salman Rushdie fatwa forced him into hiding for years and even gave him the reputation for being “reclusive.” But he is the most public and cosmopolitan of writers, at home in urban areas and large gatherings, inspired by the conflict, diversity and unpredictability of metropolitan areas. Much of Rushdie’s work has been set outside of the U.S. — “Midnight’s Children” is one of the defining novels of postcolonial India, and “The Satanic Verses” is based in London and India, among other locations. But Rushdie says being an “American” writer doesn’t mean only setting your books in this country. “I was an immigrant writer in England, and now I’m an immigrant writer in America,” he says. “American writers come from everywhere, right?

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Oprah Winfrey discusses the book “Enough: Your Health, Your Weight, and What It’s Like to Be Free” at the 92nd Street Y, in 2026 in New York.

ANDY KROPA / INVISION / AP PHOTO

Oprah wants you to reach your ‘AHA’ moment at Las Vegas Sphere Winfrey’s influence remains massive By Gary Gerard Hamilton The Associated Press NEW YORK — Oprah Winfrey stood alone at the Sphere, attempting to comprehend what she had witnessed after U2’s opening night performance in 2023. Mesmerized by the multisensory event, the Queen of All Media had a thought: Could she use the groundbreaking, 4D capabilities of the globe-shaped arena to help others reach their highest potential? “You could use this technology as a visual, immersive experience to allow people to go deeper for themselves and walk away with a sense of awe and wonder about what it means to be alive,” the media mogul, whose empire was built largely by inspiring viewers of “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” told The Associated

Press. “I know that there’s more, and the more could really help people see themselves differently. It has the potential to be an incredible experience of magnificent wonder.” That initial thought became “Oprah Winfrey’s AHA,” taking place April 2-4 at the Sphere, the $2.3 billion state-of-the-art Las Vegas arena that has hosted performances by The Backstreet Boys, Phish, the Eagles and No Doubt — and a popular “The Wizard of Oz” film experience. The two-hour live event will feature Winfrey with special guests and performances, including multiple Grammy winner Jacob Collier, poet and author Ocean Vuong, musician Ajeet and gospel singer Wintley Phipps. Among all-star collaborators crafting the experience with Winfrey are Oscar-nominated composer Max Richter, Grammy-nominated musicians Jason White and Jon Hopkins, playwright and MacArthur “ge-

nius grant” recipient Tarell Alvin McCraney and Es Devlin, the stage designer for Beyoncé’s “Formation” and “Renaissance” world tours. Tickets go on sale to the general public Sept. 25. It’s been 15 years since Winfrey ended her iconic talk show, which last week celebrated its 40th anniversary of reaching U.S. syndication. She has stayed busy with her podcast, her CEO duties for her namesake OWN TV network, and various tours and live events. At 72, when many are embracing retirement, Winfrey isn’t ready to slow down completely. “I thought about sitting behind the gate and picking roses,” Winfrey joked. “The truth is that I got another strong decade. I feel the urgency of time, and I feel like I have something to say … and using all of these collaborators to help me say it in a more forceful and phenomenal and immersive way is my offering for this remaining decade.”

1189079

NEW YORK — Salman Rushdie, a U.S. citizen for the past decade, is to receive a literary honor reserved for the elite of American writers — a National Book Award medal for lifetime achievement. “Although I lived here for many, many years before I became a citizen and had a green card, citizenship suddenly made me feel a sense of being part of it (the U.S.) that was deeper than before. And I think there’s something similar about this (award),” said the 79-year-old Rushdie, a native of Mumbai (then Bombay) who emigrated to England in his teens and now lives in New York City with his wife and fellow author, Rachel Eliza Griffiths. “I remember somebody told me that when (Raymond) Carver got some major American award, he described himself as being ‘out there in literature now.’ And I thought, ‘Maybe I’m out there in American literature now,’” Rushdie added. Longtime friend and fellow author (and Indian immigrant) Kiran Desai will present Rushdie his medal at this fall’s National Book Awards ceremony in Manhattan on Nov. 18, when prizes in five competitive categories will be handed out.

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Stanly News Journal for Sunday, September 20, 2026

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