The Daily Dispatch - Saturday, December 5, 2009 by The Daily Dispatch

CMYK Northern, Southern boys win

First Presbyterian welcomes new pastor

American Profile magazine

Sports, Page 1B

Faith, Page 1C

Inside Today SATURDAY, December 5, 2009

Volume XCV, No. 285

(252) 436-2700

www.hendersondispatch.com

Suspect in murder arrested Attempted robbery at Jokers ended with shotgun blast By AL WHELESS Daily Dispatch Writer

Investigators have arrested a 20-year-old man suspected of fatally shooting a customer Oct. 20 during an attempted robbery at Jokers Bar & Lounge on U.S. 1/158. Vance County Sheriff Peter White said Robert Maguel Brodie Jr. of 722 Young Ave. in Herderson is accused of causing the death of David D. Perry, 43, of 861 No Bottom Road in Warrenton. Brodie was charged with first-degree murder, robbery with a dangerous weapon, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a stolen firearm. White said Brodie is in the Vance County Jail with no bond on the murder charge. Bonds on the other three charges total $75,000. The defendant is scheduled to appear in District Court on Dec. 14. The investigation is continuing, and more arrests could follow, according to the Sheriff. Not long after the incident occurred, White gave an account of what had

By AL WHELESS Daily Dispatch Writer

Vance Commissioner Danny Wright confirmed Friday the rumor that he won’t seek another four-year term in the District 7 seat he has already occupied for 27 years. The next election will be held in November of 2010, at the end of his seventh term. Wright “My priorities have shifted more toward my family,” said the 65-year-old certified public accountant who

Outstanding County Commissioner Award winner serving seventh term

plans to spend more time with his grandchildren. He and his wife, Betty, have six. Three of them live in Wake Forest. “Betty is the best grandmother in the world and I want to be the best granddaddy,” Wright explained. “My grandchildren worship the ground I walk on,” Wright said during a telephone interview. Chuckling, he added: “I’ve got

them fooled. I plan to fool them some more.” Being a county commissioner has limited the number of hours he has been able to spend with his family, according to Wright. “When Betty goes to Wake Forest to see them, they ask ‘Where is Grandy?,’” he said. “The response is usually ‘Grandy is in a meeting,’” Wright added. “I just need to change that.”

Parading the season in Oxford

Daily Dispatch/ASHLEY STEVEN AYSCUE

Riders wave from the Cornerstone Christian Preschool float Friday night as it travels along Williamsboro Street during the Oxford Christmas Parade. To view or purchase photos, visit us on the Web at www.hendersondispatch.com.

Weather Today

Daily Dispatch/ASHLEY STEVEN AYSCUE

Rain likely

Daily Dispatch/ASHLEY STEVEN AYSCUE

Miss North Carolina Katherine Elizabeth Southard waves to the crowd Friday night on the side of the parade route during the Oxford Christmas Parade. To view or purchase photos, visit us on the Web at www.hendersondispatch.com.

A tired dancer from Ballet Arts gets a lift in a wagon along the parade route Friday night during the Oxford Christmas Parade. To view or purchase photos, visit us on the Web at www.hendersondispatch.com.

Details, 3A

Deaths

Members of the J.F. Webb U.S. Army JROTC, right, march in the Oxford Christmas Parade Friday night. To view or purchase photos, visit us on the Web at www. hendersondispatch.com.

Obituaries, 4A

Vietnam vet Granville chamber speaker By WILLIAM F. WEST Daily Dispatch Writer

A Vietnam veteran who today says he serves in the Lord’s Army will give the keynote address to the Granville County Chamber of Commerce’s 68th annual banquet, which is set for Jan. 25 at VanceGranville Community College’s main campus. Former Marine Lt. Patrick Cleburne “Clebe” McClary was wounded in combat on March 3, 1968. McClary lost his left eye and his left arm, spent more than two years in military hospitals, underwent more than 30 surgeries and spent numerous hours in

physical therapy. McClary received the Silver Star, the Bronze Star and three Purple Hearts. McClary, in his biography, said he McClary was raised on a 10,000 acre plantation in South Carolina’s Low Country, had fulfilled a dream of becoming a college coach and had plans to marry a Southern Belle. Two weeks before the wedding, McClary said he saw the burning of an American flag on a college campus by students protesting the conflict in Vietnam.

Barron Stainback said Friday morning he will run for the Vance County Board of Commissioners’ District 7 seat held by Scott Hughes and already sought by Tommy Hester. The second challenger announced his intentions after both Hughes and Hester stated that they plan to file again in a story published Friday by The Daily Dispatch. Stainback Stainback said Friday that he is a friend of Hughes, and is certain the current commissioner will be able to carry out his plan to go into the military after he is cleared of a criminal misdemeanor charge facing him in Craven County. “We (he and Hughes) are covering the Democratic Party” to make sure that it has a candidate in the District 7 race, Stainback said Friday morning. Please see STAINBACK, page 3A

By DISPATCH STAFF

Butner Jodie O. Wrenn, 49 Conyers, Ga. Artis A. Hargrove, 70 Henderson James E. Blackwell, 82 Antonia P. Burchette, 41 Hezekiah Johnson Jr., 78 Ruth C. Nelson, 80 Kittrell Polly J. Moore, 87 Macon Monica Donoughue, 66 Norlina Randolph Fogg, 58 Oxford Willie M. Harrington, 63

Stainback joins battle in District 7

Kittrell man arrested on drugs charges

Daily Dispatch/ASHLEY STEVEN AYSCUE

High: 47 Low: 30

Please see WRIGHT, page 3A

By AL WHELESS Daily Dispatch Writer

Our Hometown . . . . . 2A Business & Farm. . . . 5A Opinion . . . . . . . . . . . 8A Light Side . . . . . . . . . 9A Sports. . . . . . . . . . 1-4B Comics . . . . . . . . . . . 5C Classifieds. . . . . . . 6-8C

Sunny day

Whether he could or couldn’t win another four-year term is a question that had no part of his decision not to run again, Wright replied Friday when asked just that. On Aug. 29, he was one of two people to receive the Outstanding County Commissioner Award for 2008-2009. It was presented in Hickory during the 102nd Annual Conference of the North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC). The first Vance commissioner to win the award, Wright has

Incumbent, two challengers vie for Vance board

Index

Sunday

50 cents

Veteran Wright won’t seek re-election

Please see SUSPECT, page 3A

High: 43 Low: 26

McClary, dismayed by the lack of support for the U.S., said he resigned from his coaching position, volunteered for the Marine Corps, completed officer training at the Marine Corps base at Quantico, Va., and served as platoon leader of the 1st Recon Battalion in Vietnam. McClary, a graduate of Erskine College in South Carolina, has been married 35 years to Deanna McClary. He is the father of two children and a grandfather of four. The Chamber banquet will be at 6:30 p.m. in Vance-Granville’s Please see SPEAKER, page 3A

A 24-year-old Kittrell man has been arrested by the Vance County Sheriff’s Office Vice/Narcotics Unit, Sheriff Peter White said Friday. James Sellars Floyd III of 123 Van Dyke Road was charged with: • Felony possession with intent to manufacture, sell and deliver cocaine. • Felony possession with intent to manufacture cocaine. • Felony sell and deliver cocaine • Felony possession of cocaine. • Felony maintaining a vehicle for keeping and selling cocaine. Floyd is being held in the Vance County jail in lieu of $50,000, pending a court appearance on Dec. 28. Send comments to news@hendersondispatch.com.

H THE PAIN!

Mark It Down Today Christmas parades — The City of Creedmoor’s Christmas Parade will be held at 11 a.m. and the Town of Butner will hold its Christmas parade at 2 p.m. Henderson Institute — The Henderson Institute Triad Chapter will hold its regular meeting at 11 a.m. at the Henderson Institute Museum on Rock Spring Street. Guest speaker will be Michael W. Putney, principal of Dabney Elementary School. The chapter’s Christmas celebration will also take place during this meeting. Members are reminded to please bring non-perishable food items for the food bank at ACTS. College Day — The Reclaiming Our Youth (ROY) Leadership Program will sponsor its sixth annual HBCU College Day beginning at 9:30 a.m. at Dabney Elementary School on Lanning Road in Henderson. Admissions representatives from all the historically black colleges and universities (HBCU’s) in North Carolina and Virginia will be on hand to share information with parents and students about their respective schools. Students will be allowed to also speak individually with representatives and complete applications on site. Some application fees will be waived. High school juniors and seniors are especially encouraged to attend. SAT scores and transcripts should be available for immediate consideration. Entertainment will be provided by local step teams and drum lines. This event is free. For more information, contact Vincent Ragland at (252) 213-2095, Michael Perry at (252) 213-0887 or Sarah Baskerville at (252) 492-5981. Pigeon Club — The VGWF Racing Pigeon Club is hosting a show and auction at the Kittrell Community Club House, 27 Main St., Kittrell, beginning at 11 a.m. Show birds will include yearling hen, yearling cock, old bird hen and old bird cock with a prize for best in show and best opposite sex. Entry fee is $2 per birth. Birds being auctioned off will be donated by VGWF lofts and other lofts across Virginia and North and South Carolina, 50/50 split. Refreshments and prizes will be offered. Marion Cutler will serve as judge and Skip Walston will serve as the auctioneer. For more information, contact Sam Parsons at (252) 432-6380. Chorale performance — The Northeast Piedmont Chorale will present the regional premiere of Mark Hayes’ “Gloria” in Binkley Chapel on the campus of Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest at 7 p.m. In addition to “Gloria,” the chorale will sing a mix of seasonal favorites. The chorale will be joined by members of the Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary Choir and the Wake Forest Baptist Church Chancel Choir. Alpha Phi Alpha — The members of the Rho Beta Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity will meet at 4 p.m. at Brother Ramey’s house, 2555 Raleigh Road, Henderson. All area Alphas are invited to attend. Santa visit — Santa Claus will be arriving in an “interesting” way today at 11 a.m. at the Henderson Indoor/Outdoor Flea Market, 2726 Raleigh Road, Henderson. The public is invited to attend and take pictures with the jolly old elf. For more information, call 430-9194.

Sunday Henderson Christmas parade — The annual Henderson Christmas parade will be held downtown starting at 2:30 p.m. Area bands will provide music and businesses and civic/religious groups will sponsor floats. Santa Claus will also be in attendance. The parade route goes from Dabney Drive Extension to Garnett Street, ending at Rose Avenue.

Monday Granville Commission — The Granville County Commission will meet at 7 p.m. in the commission meeting room, 145 Williamsboro St., Oxford. Planning Board – The City of Henderson’s Planning Board will meet at 3:30 p.m. in the City Council Chambers of City Hall, 134 Rose Ave. Land Planning Meeting — A City of Henderson Land Planning Meeting will be held at 4:30 p.m. in the large conference room at City Hall, 134 Rose Ave. On the agenda is consideration of the lease of city property at Montgomery and William streets for the Henderson Collegiate Charter School. School board — The Granville County Board of Education will meet in regular session at 6 p.m. at the Granville County Board of Education administrative offices, 101 Delacroix St., Oxford. Community watch — The Ruin Creek Community Watch will meet at 6:30 p.m. at West Hills Presbyterian Church for a covered dish supper. Those attending are asked to bring a favorite meal item to share with other families, along with canned food items and/or a toy to support West Hills Presbyterian’s efforts to assist Life Line Ministries and ACTS during the Christmas season.

It is an extended form of parental ignoring. Children are briefly removed from all sources of positive reinforcement, especially adult attention. Here are some tips for using “time out:” • Time out is not used until children have the developmental capacity to start learning to selfregulate, which is usually around three years old. • Expect repeated learning trials and be prepared for testing. • Use “time out” consistently for chosen misbehaviors, regardless of setting. • Don’t threaten “time outs” unless you’re prepared to follow through. • Ignore the child while in “time out.” Use personal “time out” to relax and refuel energy. • Use nonviolent approaches such as loss of privileges for older children who refuse to go to or stay in “time out.” • Hold children responsible for cleaning messes made in “time out.” • Support a partner’s use of “time out.” Before using “time out,” decide which specific misbehaviors will result in “time out.” Examples of behaviors that cannot be ignored such as extreme noncompliance or oppositional behavior, hitting

Holiday stress may cause children to act out and parents to react too strongly. Rather than lose control, consider taking a “time out” to help you and your child gain the selfcontrol needed to have a happy and memVickie orable Jones holiday season. Cooperative The esExtension sence of “time out” is to allow yourself to step back from stress or anger and regain your focus on what is essential. Once you have gained perspective on the situation, you rob it of the power to overwhelm you. Children who witness their parents take a “time out” to calm down learn that time out is not a punishment, but a time to regulate their emotions in a non-violent way. All children need help from parents to learn selfcontrol. Time out is a useful technique to teach selfcontrol. It teaches children to calm down so that they can solve their problem in a more predictable way.

VGCC Community Band presents free holiday concert The Vance-Granville Community Band will hold its second annual Holiday Concert on Dec. 13. The program will begin at 4 p.m. in the Civic Center on the college’s main campus in Vance County. Admission is free and the event is open to the public. Michael Stephenson, the Vance-Granville Community College music instructor and director of the band, said that the evening’s music will include many favorite holiday selections, including “Sleigh Ride” by Leroy Anderson, “The Messiah Overture” by Handel, and

The Daily Dispatch staff asks that items intended for inclusion in the calendar be submitted in writing at least five days in advance of the event. Please include a contact person’s name and phone number in case there are questions. Items for this listing can be e-mailed to communitynews@hendersondispatch.com.

many Christmas medleys. A special portion of the program will also be devoted to small children. Formed in October 2008, the community band is a combination of VGCC students and interested citizens. The band premiered with a holiday concert in December 2008. All four counties of the VGCC service area (Vance, Granville, Warren and Franklin) are represented in the band, which has grown to more than 50 members. For more information, call Michael Stephenson at (252) 738-3346.

Bundle and Save $$$ Makes Sense/Saves Dollars

Business Phone/Internet Bundles 2 Lines & DSL at $99.95 Business Internet only starting at $39.95

Marketplace Shopping Center

Source: Featured article Medications & More, October 2009. By Jacqueline Ross, RN, Maria Parham Medical Center

Postal Plus

438-9060

Monday-Friay, 9am-6pm Saturday 9am-1pm

(PG13) FRIDAY: 5:15, 7:15 & 9:15PM SAT: 1:15, 3:15, 5:15, 7:15 & 9:15PM SUN: 1:15, 3:15, 5:15 & 7:15PM MON-THUR: 5:15 & 7:15PM

Pack & Ship Headquarters

CHRIS ROCK’S: GOOD HAIR

hipper S l a i c Offi r Santa fo

CALL TODAY FOR SHIPPING DEADLINES FREE INSURANCE UP TO $100

PLANET 51

(PG) FRIDAY: 5:10, 7:10 & 9:10PM SAT: 1:10, 3:10, 5:10, 7:10 & 9:10PM SUN: 1:10, 3:10, 5:10 & 7:10PM MON-THUR: 5:10 & 7:10PM

2012 (PG13) FRIDAY: 5:00 & 8:00PM

SAT & SUN: 12:45, 3:45 & 7:00PM MON-THUR: 7:00PM

www.marketplacecinemas.com

Area’s Only Certified Packing and Shipping Specialist Area’s Only Authorized Shipper for FedEx & UPS 907 S Beckford Drive Henderson

(252) 430-7771

Networking/Computers/Telephones One Local Call, One Local Company

Keep your number * Call waiting Caller ID * Voicemail to Email

• AUTO INJURY • WORK INJURY Call Today for Your Appointment! • Chronic Headaches

• Neck Injuries Insurance is filed for you in network for

• Sports Injuries AETNA BCBSNC UHC CIGNA MEDICAID/MEDICARE/MED COST • Back Pain • Insomnia • Arthritis • Leg Pain • Shoulder/Arm Pain

Mon-Thurs 9:30-6; Fri 9:30-11 Now Accepting New Patients

McDonalds

Insurance is filed for you in network for (252) 436-2500 • www.hendersonbackdoctor.com

MEDICAID/MEDICARE/MED COST/BCBSNC

Mon-Thurs 9-6; Fri 9-1 Walk-ins & New Appts Welcome. (252) 436-2500

Marketplace Cinema

decisions about infant feeding, breast-feeding is the preferred method for infant feeding, and it ensures the best possible health, developmental and psychological outcomes for infants.”

THE BLIND SIDE

Dr. Dennis Myers

I-85

“Breast-feeding, a healthy and natural condition for mothers and babies, remains controversial in the United States. This controversy and the often negative responses to breast-feeding persist even though the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that despite economic, cultural and political influences on

(PG13) FRIDAY: 7:00 & 9:30PM SAT: 1:00, 3:30, 7:00 & 9:30PM SUN: 1:00, 3:30 & 7:00PM MON-THUR: 5:00 & 7:30PM

1503 Graham Avenue

KFC

Breast is best!

(PG13) FRIDAY: 6:45 & 9:30PM SAT: 12:45, 3:30, 6:45 & 9:30PM SUN: 12:45, 3:30 & 6:45PM MON-THUR: 4:45 & 7:30PM

252-492-4317

Your Local Internet service provider Now your Local telephone company! www.ncol.net/specials

YOU DON’T HAVE TO LIVE WITH THE PAIN!

Wendy’s

Source: The Incredible Years by Carolyn WebsterStratton

TWILIGHT SAGA: NEW MOON

Care Chiropractic & Acupuncture

Graham Ave

proach will help your child learn to take a brief time away to calm down or selfregulate. “Time out” is also an anger management approach children can use throughout their lives. “Time out” is only one of the many evidencebased approaches taught to parents of children ages three to five at the Vance County Center of the N.C. Cooperative Extension Service. Parent educators Jean Bell and Vickie Jones facilitate “The Incredible Years” basic parenting program to provide parents with guidelines to help prevent behavior problems from occurring and with strategies to promote social, emotional and academic competence. We are now taking registrations for a morning and evening series beginning in late January (date to be announced). Parents can attend the 15week class free of charge. Classes meet a week. A small meal, class materials, weekly door prizes and incentives are provided to participants who attend the program. For more information or to register, please call Vickie Jones at (252) 438-8188.

Tips from the Vance Co. Parenting Task Force

OLD DOGS

Blockbusters

Wendy’s

★

Care Chiropractic Graham Ave KFC

www.carechiropracticcenter.com

Have you been considering owning Alpacas?

McDonalds I-85

Blockbusters

and destructive behaviors are appropriate. The location for “time out” should preferably be a chair placed in an empty corner of a room or hall away from all family activities and television. The chair can be called the “time out” or “calm down place” or “thinking chair.” The length of time out follows the general rule of three minutes for threeyear olds, four minutes for four-year olds and five minutes for children five and older. “Time outs” longer than five minutes are not more effective. However, children should not be let out of “time out” until there have been two minutes of quiet, signaling that they have calmed down. This means that when you first use “time out,” it may last longer (30 to 40 minutes) if your child continues to scream. Finally, before using “time out,” explain the idea to your child. It is also very helpful to practice in advance the calm down strategies the child can use while in “time out.” For example, take three breaths and tell yourself, “I can calm down, I can do it, I can try again.” Personal time out for adults and children is one of the most effective ways to reduce stress. Modeling and teaching this ap-

(PG) FRIDAY: 5:05, 7:05 & 9:05PM SAT: 1:05, 3:05, 5:05, 7:05 & 9:05PM SUN: 1:05, 3:05, 5:05 & 7:05PM MON-THUR: 5:05 & 7:05PM

We have Moved to our new location 1305 Graham Avenue

Care ★ Chiropractic

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Time out for parents and children

Guidelines

Dabney Drive

d to on venue

Our Hometown

The Daily Dispatch

Dabney Drive

Now is a GREAT time to purchase to take advantage of the 2009 Tax Credits! We are a full service alpaca farm with many alpacas to choose from. We are offering package deals with significant savings off our internet prices! Call 434-252-1406

For more information www.millcreekalpacas.net Farm address: 2167 Mill Creek Road Clarksville, VA 23927 (just outside of Townsville)

From Page One

The Daily Dispatch

FIVE-DAY FORECAST FOR HENDERSON TODAY

TONIGHT

SUNDAY

Rain Likely

Rain/Snow

Sunny

43º

26º

47º 30º

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Mostly Sunny

Partly Cloudy

Scat'd Rain

50º 34º

51º 38º

56º 38º

Almanac

Sun and Moon

Temperature

Sunrise today . . . . . .7:10 Sunset tonight . . . . .4:59 Moonrise today . . . .8:49 Moonset today . . . .10:20 Sunrise tomorrow . . .7:11 Sunset tomorrow . . .4:59 Moonrise tomorrow 10:01 Moonset tomorrow .10:58

Raleigh -Durham through 6 p.m. yest. High . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Normal High . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56 Normal Low . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Record High . . . . . . . . .79 in 1978 Record Low . . . . . . . . .15 in 1976

a.m. p.m. p.m. a.m. a.m. p.m. p.m. a.m.

Moon Phases

Precipitation Yesterday . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .0.00" Month to date . . . . . . . . . . . .2.30" Normal month to date . . . . .0.38" Year to date . . . . . . . . . . . . .36.64" Normal year to date . . . . . .40.39"

Last 12/8

Full 12/31

First 12/24

New 12/16

Lake Levels Elevation in feet above sea level. Data as of 7 a.m. yesterday. Lake Gaston Kerr

24-Hr. Lake Capacity Yest. Change Jordan 240 218.6 0.0 Neuse Falls 264 253.6 0.0

24-Hr. Capacity Yest. Change 203 200.4 0.0 320 302.7 0.0

Regional Weather Henderson 43/26

Winston-Salem Durham 43/26 41/25 Asheville 36/24

Rocky Mt. 44/28

Greensboro 41/26 Raleigh 44/27 Charlotte 44/29

Fayetteville 47/28

Shown is today’s weather. Temperatures are today’s highs and tonight’s lows.

Cape Hatteras 55/45

Wilmington 53/34

Regional Cities Today

Sun.

Today

Sun.

City

Hi/Lo Wx Hi/Lo Wx City

Hi/Lo Wx Hi/Lo Wx

Asheville Boone Burlington Chapel Hill Chattanooga Danville Durham Elizabeth City Elizabethton Fayetteville Goldsboro Greensboro Greenville Havelock Hendersonville

36/24 36/21 42/26 43/26 38/25 40/26 43/26 49/36 34/21 47/28 48/30 41/26 47/32 52/34 37/25

41/26 50/32 48/32 47/31 54/35 55/39 54/44 50/34 44/27 38/27 43/27 44/28 44/27 53/34 41/25

ra sn rs ra sn rs ra ra sn ra ra rs ra ra ra

46/30 44/29 47/29 48/31 52/35 46/27 48/30 48/36 46/29 51/34 50/32 47/29 50/34 52/38 45/29

s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s

High Point Jacksonville Kinston Lumberton Myrtle Beach Morehead City Nags Head New Bern Raleigh Richmond Roanoke Rapids Rocky Mount Sanford Wilmington Winston-Salem

rs ra ra ra ra ra ra ra ra rs ra ra ra ra rs

47/29 52/36 50/35 51/35 55/39 54/43 51/46 52/37 49/31 46/30 48/30 49/31 50/32 54/37 47/29

s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s

Weather (Wx): cl/cloudy; pc/partly cloudy; ra/rain; rs/rain & snow; s/sunny; sh/showers; sn/snow; t/thunderstorms; w/windy

Today’s National Map

L H

Stationary Front

Warm Front

unsecured bond. He had been scheduled to appear at a hearing on Nov. 5 in Craven County District Court. In the 2006 election for the same seat, Hester was the incumbent who lost to Hughes. After the results were announced by the Board of Elections more than three years ago, Hester vowed during a telephone interview that same night in November that he would never run again for political office. Stainback said Friday that he is in a political race for the first time because “We need somebody who will be go-getters, young blood, on the board (of commissioners).” A 1984 graduate of Vance Senior High School, Stainback said he worked at A.C. Reynolds Construction Co. for six years, and was a superintendent when he left in 2005 due to physical problems. He has been on medical

Low Pressure

High Pressure

Yesterday’s National Extremes High: 89° in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Low: -22° in Stanley, Idaho

XII I

II III

VIII VII VI

IV V

X IX

XII

VII

II III

VIII

Est. Aug. 12, 1914 304 S. Chestnut St. P.O. Box 908 Henderson, N.C. 27536

The Daily Dispatch (USPS 239-940) is published Tuesday through Sunday mornings, except Dec. 25, by Henderson Newspapers Inc. Periodicals postage paid at Henderson, North Carolina, 27536.

GREENVILLE, S.C. (AP) — A tour bus carrying South Carolina students home from a field trip has crashed on a mountain road near the North Carolina border, sending 15 people to hospitals with minor injuries. WYFF-TV reports the bus crashed Friday afternoon, injuring three adults and 12 children ages 8 to 14. A South Carolina Highway Patrol spokeswoman told The Greenville News the bus ran off U.S. High-

way 276 in Caesars Head State Park and hit a tree. Authorities said the injuries were not life threatening. Richland 2 spokeswoman Theresa Riley said the bus was carrying Blythewood Middle students home from Camp Greenville in Cedar Mountain, N.C. She said school officials notified the families of students taken to hospitals. Another bus was taking uninjured students to the Columbia area.

New charges for doctor in sex abuse trial HAMILTON, Ohio (AP) — New charges have been filed against an Ohio pediatrician awaiting trial on child sex abuse allegations. Butler County Prosecutor Robin Piper says Dr. Scott Blankenburg is in jail after being charged Friday with three counts of unlawful sexual contact with minors, two drug charges and bribery. Piper says the charges are related to a new victim who has come forward. He tells WLWT-TV in Cincin-

nati that the sex crimes occurred years ago, but some of the drug violations occurred while Blankenburg was free on bond awaiting an April trial on sex abuse and child pornography charges. A message was left Friday night for Blankenburg’s attorney. Blankenburg’s twin brother, Dr. Mark Blankenburg, was convicted this year of similar child sex crimes. His sentencing is scheduled for Dec. 11.

happened. He said the lone shooter, who might have intended to rob some customers inside the bar in the Greystone community, fled after the closerange shotgun blast struck Perry in the abdomen about

4:15 a.m. when he answered a knock at the front door. “It (Jokers) doesn’t have a closing time,” the Sheriff explained. Contact the writer at awheless@hendersondispatch.com

Buying All Gold, Proof Gold & Silver Coins U.S. Currencies 1930’s & Earlier 30% Discount on all Sterling Silver Jewelry with this ad for the month of December! Most jewelry made Will Buy Gold by local artist. & Silver Jewelry Any Condition

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Daily Dispatch, P.O. Box 908, Henderson, N.C., 27536

Classified 436-2810 Advertising 436-2820 advertising@hendersondispatch.com

Newsroom 436-2830

news@hendersondispatch.com

Sports 436-2840

sports@hendersondispatch.com

Subscription rates Carrier delivery, where available Mail — In State

Mail — Out-of-State Mail Sun. — In State

Yearly 6 months 3 months Monthly

$120.00 Yearly $186.00 Yearly $60.00 $93.00 6 months 6 months $30.00 3 monthsBy: $46.50Provided 3 months Services $10.00 $15.50 Monthly Monthly

$162.00 $81.00 $40.50 $13.50

We strive for 6 a.m. delivery Tuesday-Friday, and 7 a.m. Saturday and Sunday. Call 436-2800 between 6 and 10 a.m. Tuesday-Friday and 7 to 11 a.m. on weekends if you do not receive your newspaper.

Contact the writer at awheless@hendersondispatch.com.

him that “the most important thing in life is relationships, and that family comes first.” He has 12 more months on the board, Wright said. “I am going to be working hard to carry out the County’s strategic plan.” Laughing, Wright admitted he’s looking forward to the time when he can “sit around the country store and cuss the commissioners and tell everybody how good I was.” Contact the writer at awheless@hendersondispatch.com.

SPEAKER, from page one Building No. 9 off the Interstate 85/Poplar Creek Road interchange. The banquet additionally marks the presentation of the John Penn Award, which is Granville County’s highest civic honor. Penn was the Declaration of Independence signer who lived near Stovall. Nominations for the 2010 Penn Award are included in this month’s issue of the Chamber’s “Brightleaf” newsletter and are available on-line at www. granville-chamber.com/

The nominations are due Jan. 5 at the Chamber’s main office at 124 Hillsboro St., Oxford, and at the Chamber southern Granville County office at 598 N.C. 56. Former state Rep. Stan Fox is the present recipient of the Penn Award. Contact the writer at bwest@ hendersondispatch.com.

If you miss your paper,

PLEASE CALL before 11:00 am — 436-2800

ay yd r e Ev

Tender Lovers 4 Pc. Chicken Combo Tender $ 99 ®

1 Side & DRINK Cookin’ Up Down Home Cookin’ ®

Good Food • Good Service • Fair Price

444 Dabney Dr. , Henderson 492-4040 We Welcome Call In Orders Sun-Thurs 11-9, Fri-Sat 11-10

Quality Coverage

from the most trusted health insurer in North Carolina1

Call me for information on: Authorized Agent

WAYNE KINTON

252-438-4341 1636 Parham St.

Wayne@cmiins.com

(252) 438-2635

• Individual Health Plans

• Medicare Supplement Insurance

• Dental Plans for Individuals

• Health Savings Accounts

Henderson, NC 27536

For all departments dial 252-436-2700 or fax 252-430-0125

Delivery 436-2800

$150.00 $75.00 $37.50 $12.50

left out” when it comes to getting needed help at the State and federal levels. Stainback pledged to “work within the infrastructure of the State and the U.S. Government. I’ve got some contacts with some Congress members, personally.” He said the County should “push educational opportunities and equipment operations and retrain people in the area.” Stainback added that “We need to work on the State to get more money for community colleges.” Faye Gill, director of the Vance County Board of Elections, said Friday that filings will begin Feb. 8 at noon and will end Feb. 26 at the same time. The primary election will be held May 4. If a second one is needed, it will be held June 22. The General Election will be conducted Nov. 2.

1 Catevo Brand Study, February 2008. An independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. U2082l, 8/09

circulation@hendersondispatch.com

Yearly 6 months 3 months Monthly

been on the local board since 1982, and has served as its chairman. He was the NCACC president in 1997-98, the first Vance commissioner to hold the position. For the past five years, Wright has been a member of the Board of Directors of the National Association of Counties (NACO). Wright was on the West Coast Friday for a NACO board meeting when the telephone interview for this story was done. He said his mother taught

Call for appointment

How to reach us

Home Delivery

disability for the last two years, Stainback added. “I’ve got very, very deep concerns about this county and the direction it is going in,” he said. “We’ve got to have some economic growth here,” Stainback mentioned during a telephone interview. He also said “We’ve got a social problem in this county” that includes a poor economy, high-school dropouts and the teen birthrate. Vance and Henderson have “a long way to go” in terms of youth gangs and other crime-control issues, according to Stainback. Sheriff Peter White and Police Chief Keith Sidwell “have done a great job,” he said. “I can direct some leadership within the board,” Stainback said. “I want to go out and bring in some businesses (to help the economic situation). I’ve got the time.” He described Vance County as “a red-headed stepchild” who has “been

Students suffer minor injuries in crash WRIGHT, from page one

SUSPECT, from page one

This map shows high temperatures, type of precipitation expected and location of frontal systems at noon.

Cold Front

Stainback added that he had discussed the matter with Hughes. The incumbent did not return a phone call from the Dispatch on Friday. On Thursday, Hughes said he should know the outcome of the case in Craven County within 12 days. Hughes was arrested Oct. 10 on a charge of communicating e-mail threats to a Havelock man. The one-count warrant had been taken out by Russell Railnear. According to a spokesman for the Havelock Police Department, Railnear told officers he had met Hughes’ estranged wife “at school.” Railnear also mentioned to police, the spokesman said, that Hughes found out and put several threatening messages in the alleged victim’s Face Book page. Hughes, 34, of 309 Yowland Road, was released from custody under $300

ay yd

STAINBACK, from page one

er Ev

110s 100s 90s 80s 70s 60s 50s 40s 30s 20s 10s 0s

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Mail Sun. Out-of- State Yearly 6 months 3 months Monthly

$132.00 $66.00 $33.00 $11.00

The Associated Press (AP) is entitled to use for publication all local news published in this newspaper as well as all AP news dispatches. Member of The Audit Bureau of Circulations and the Associated Press.

BURGLAR & FIRE ALARMS CENTRAL VAC, CCTV

ALARM MONITORING FOR $16/mo.

AHNER SECURITY

Call Dave Arner at 438-7181

INCORPORATED

In Business since 1988

THE HAIR SHACK (252) 433-4942

Hair Cuts - Adults $10 • Children $5-$10, Haircut & Blowdry- $15 Haircut & Style- $20 • Shampoo & Style- $10 Updos- $30 • Color- $40 & Up Highlights -$35 & Up • Perms- $35 & Up Conditioning Treatments-$5 and Up • Waxing $6 Makeup and Body Wraps Available By Appointment

Late Appointments Accepted • Walk-Ins Welcomed

1106 Bane Avenue-Henderson

Formerly Millennium Glass of Oxford

Kerr Lake Glassworks (252) 492-6423

AUTOMOTIVE • COMMERCIAL • RESIDENTIAL

Insurance Claim Specialists! Product and labor Warranties! Uncompromised Quality Service! Over 24 Year Installations Experience!

24 Hour Emergency Board-up Service, we are always available to help! • Auto glass - Mobile or shop installation • Windshield Repair Phone: (252) 492-6423 • Patio Doors Fax: (252) 492-6170 • Mirrors Email: kerrlakeglassworks@gmail.com • Insulated Glass Units Website: www.kerrlakeglassworks.com • Commercial Storefronts • Baquacil Distributor for Pool and Spa Chemicals • Free Water Testing • Custom Cut Furniture Glass • Storm Windows and Doors • Heavy Equipment Glass Replacement

Convenient Location: Exit 220, I85 Henderson, NC 256 Flemingtown Road, Henderson, NC 27537

Local News

The Daily Dispatch

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Deaths James E. Blackwell HENDERSON — James Edward Blackwell, 82, of 1770 Satterwhite Point Road, died Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, at Britthaven of Henderson. The family will receive friends at the residence. Memorial services will be announced by DavisRoyster Funeral Service.

Antonia P. Burchette HENDERSON — Antonia P. Burchette, 41, of 613 East Montgomery St., died Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, at Maria Parham Medical Center. Funeral arrangements will be announced later by Davis-Royster Funeral Service.

Monica Donoughue MACON — Monica “Micki” Donoughue, 66, died Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009, at her residence. She was a native of Philadelphia, Pa., born to the late Charles Barger and Dorothy Scaveria Barger. She was a member of the Lake Gaston Ladies Club and was an avid bridge player. The Rev. Dan Davis will conduct memorial services at 2 p.m. Wednesday at Blaylock Funeral Home in Warrenton. Surviving are her husband, Bernard W. “Bill” Donoughue; three children, William John Donoughue of Scotch Plains, N.J., Troy Ralph Donoughue of Winter Haven, Fla., and Denise Marie Harbin of Logonville, Ga.; and her two grandchildren. The family will receive friends after the memorial service at Blaylock Funeral Home. Arrangements are by Blaylock Funeral Home of Warrenton.

Randolph Fogg NORLINA — Randolph “Pete” Fogg, 58, of Norlina, died Monday, Nov. 30, 2009, at the University of North Carolina Hospital in Chapel Hill. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday at Locust Grove Baptist Church in Wise. The Rev. James Pettaway will officiate and burial will follow in the church cemetery. He is survived by a daughter, Constance F. Pettaway; two grandchildren; five sisters, Lella F. Plummer of Warrenton, Julia Irby of Philadelphia, Pa., Milbra F. Hinton of Mechanicsville, Va., and Phyllis F. Tunstall and Linda F. King, both of Greensboro; four brothers,

J. M. White Funeral Home 60 Zeb Robinson Rd. Henderson

438-5139 Member of the International Order of the Golden Rule.

Bennie Fogg, McArthur Fogg and Marshall Fogg, all of Warrenton, and Joel Fogg of Winston-Salem. The body will be on view today from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. at Boyd’s Funeral Service Chapel in Warrenton. Arrangements are by Boyd’s Funeral Services of Warrenton.

Artis A. Hargrove CONYERS, Ga. — Artis A. Hargrove, 70, of Conyers, Ga., formerly of Warren County, died Thursday, Dec. 3, 2009, at Rockdale Hospital in Conyers, Ga. Arrangements are incomplete at this time, but will be announced later by R.H. Greene Funeral Home in Warrenton. Arrangements are by R.H. Greene Funeral Home of Warrenton.

Willie M. Harrington OXFORD – Willie Mae Harrington, 63, died Friday, Dec. 4, 2009, at Brantwood Nursing Center. Arrangements will be announced at a later date by Betts and Son Funeral Home.

Richardson Funeral Home of Louisburg.

Polly J. Moore KITTRELL — Polly J. “Nina” Moore, 87, of 4005 Eaton Road, Kittrell, died Thursday, Dec. 3, 2009, at Duke Medical Center. She was the daughter of the late Mary and Marvin Weaver. She was a member of Union Chapel A.M.E. Zion Church and was a member of the senior choir and a deaconess. She worked at the Wilton Elementary School until retirement. Survivors include a son, the Rev. Thaddus Moore Jr. of Kittrell; two daughters, Ethel Jones of Durham and Katie Moore of Oxford; 18 grandchildren; 25 great-grandchildren; and five great-greatgrandchildren. Funeral services will be conducted at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at Betts and Son Funeral Home Chapel by the Revs. Dock Fuller and Janice Cooper. Burial will follow in the Union A.M.E. Zion Church cemetery in Wilton. The viewing will be today from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. Arrangements are by Betts and Son Funeral Home.

Hezekiah Johnson Jr.

Ruth C. Nelson

HENDERSON — Funeral services for Hezekiah “Jock” Johnson Jr., 78, who died on Tuesday, Dec. 1, 2009, will be held on Sunday at 3 p.m. at the Richardson Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in the Haywood Church cemetery. The Rev. Patricia Clifton will be officiating. Surviving are his wife, Sarah Johnson of the home; a daughter, Josephine J. Perry of Henderson; two sons, Willie Howard Johnson of Louisburg and Stephon Johnson of Henderson; two sisters, Pearlie Frye and Mattie Davis of Franklinton; a brother, Tommy Lee Johnson of Louisburg; 18 grandchildren; 28 greatgrandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. Open visitation will be at the Richardson Funeral Home in Louisburg on Saturday from 3 to 8 p.m. Arrangements are by

HENDERSON — Ruth Cheatham Nelson, 80, of 1903 Francis Ave., died Sunday, Nov. 29, 2009, at her residence. She was born in Vance County and was the daughter of the late Eugene and Mary Alice Eaton Cheatham. She was educated in the Vance County public schools and joined Red Bud Baptist Church at an early age where she remained an active member until declining health. She served on the Pastor’s Aide Club and Missionary Circle. She worked for the former J.P. Taylor Tobacco Company for 15 years and retired from Purolator after 30 years and five months of service. Funeral services will be conducted at 2 p.m. Sunday at Red Bud Baptist Church by the Rev. William C. Brodie. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Survivors include

two daughters, Marian Nelson of Washington and Jacqueline Nelson of Henderson; two sons, Robert “Spence” Nelson Jr. and Calvin Nelson, both of Henderson; two grandchildren; two sisters, Pauline Hall of New York and Alice Russell of Henderson; and a brother, Melvin Cheatham. The family is receiving friends at the residence of Calvin Nelson, 1881 Francis Ave. Arrangements are by Davis-Royster Funeral Service.

F REE 926 S. Garnett St. Henderson

438-4717

www.ﬂowersfuneralhome.com

Contact the writer at dirvine@ hendersondispatch.com.

Friday after he told a U.S. magistrate last month that he objected to the court’s punishment on moral and legal grounds. But Magistrate Jennifer Guerin denied Staton’s motion to modify or suspend his sentence pending appeal and threatened to double his community service hours to 600 hours or give him 25 days in prison.

Blu Ray Player or

6 Year Extended Warranty With the purchase of a Flat Screen 40” or Larger Northside Electronics

159 N. Cooper Dr • Henderson NC 27536 • 252-492-6544

celebrates its Give the Gift of Jewelry this Holiday Season

“Commitment to Caring Personal Service” 1833 Oxford Rd. Henderson

Carol Monahan told The Daily Dispatch that an appearance last year on the Food Network laid the groundwork for the Today Show opportunity. Food Network host Sunny Anderson will feature Peanut Roaster among her selections of companies offering good gifts when she appears on the Today Show on Monday. The Monahans came into the peanut business naturally. John’s father had started processing and selling peanuts in 1949 in conjunction with the family restaurant in Virginia. With the encouragement of his father, John built a peanut processing facility in 1985 in Cary, N.C., moving the operation to Henderson in 1997. Now Peanut Roaster sells nationally and internationally through its catalog and web site: www.peanut.com as well as through its retail stores. This southern product, enhanced by southern entrepreneurship, is finding fans the world over.

Man who left water for immigrants faces prison

24 Hour Service

Flowers Funeral Home

By DAVID IRVINE Daily Dispatch Writer

Viewers of the Today Show on NBC will have a chance on Monday to sample what Hendersonians take for granted. The Peanut Roaster will be one of five companies featured in a “good gifts” segment of the show. “Today” is seen locally on WNCN, channel 8, from 7 to 11 a.m. each week day. The segment featuring Jodie O. Wrenn the Peanut Roaster will be shown “8:30-ish,” according BUTNER — Jodie to a representative of the Oakley Wrenn, 49, of 1800 show in a recent telephone W. “B” St., died Thursday, conversation with Carol Dec. 3, 2009, at her home Monahan who, with husafter an 11-year battle band John, owns Peanut with a brain disorder. A Roaster. native of Granville CounThe Henderson Peaty, she was the daughter of nut Roaster retail store is the late Samuel Lee “Sam” located at 394 Zeb Robinson Oakley. Road adjacent to exit 212 She was a member of from Interstate 85. The Pleasant Grove Baptist company’s peanut processChurch and was retired ing facility sits alongside. from the Federal Bureau Another retail store of Prisons where she was is located in Cary. For employed as a warden’s November and December secretary. the company also has retail Funeral services will be outlets in North Hills and conducted at 2 p.m. SunCameron Village in Raleigh, day in the Eakes Funeral Smithfield, Garner, KnightChapel in Creedmoor by dale and Wake Forest. the Revs. Lenny Rogers and Anthony Oakley and the Rev. Dr. Marc Tilley. Burial will be in Carolina Memorial Gardens. Surviving are a daughter, Heather W. Roberts TUCSON, Arizona (AP) of Bahama; three broth— A judge has threatened ers, Kenneth Oakley of to sentence an Arizona Churchville, Pa., and Brad man to 25 days in prison Oakley and Eddie Abfor leaving jugs of water bott, both of Butner; and in the desert for illegal imparents and caregivers, migrants. Shirley Oakley and Jake A federal jury in June Abbott. convicted Walt Staton of Flowers are accepted or Tucson of littering in the memorials may be made Buenos Aires National to one’s favorite church Wildlife Refuge. In August, or to Duke Hospice, 4321 a judge ordered Staton to Medical Park Drive, Suite pick up trash for 300 hours 101, Durham, N.C. 27704. and also sentenced him The visitation will be from to a year of unsupervised noon until 2 p.m. Sunday probation and banned him prior to the service at the from the refuge for a year. Eakes Funeral Chapel Staton is a member in Creedmoor and other of the group No More times at the home. Deaths, which supports Arrangements are by humanitarian aid along the border. He was schedEakes Funeral Home of uled to be re-sentenced Creedmoor.

252-492-6911

523 S. Chestnut St. Henderson, NC 27536 (252) 492-8715 • (866) 761-8311 robertdavis@davisdisability.com www.davisdisability.com

Peanut Roaster to be featured on ‘Today’

Bill Lloyd

1413 N. Garnett Street • Henderson, NC 27536

252-492-7725

The Olde Place Restaurant 12809 NC 39 North • Townsville, N.C. 27584

(252) 438-4770

Seafood Steak Chicken Burgers Country Vegetable Buffet

Now is the time to book your christmas party! Winter Hours: Thurs. - Sun. 5:00 pm to 8:30 pm Nightly “All You Can Eat” Specials

410 Glenwood Avenue 3100 Tower Boulevard

Business & Farm

The Daily Dispatch

Drop in unemployment rate sparks recovery optimism By CHRISTOPHER S. RUGABER AP Economics Writer

WASHINGTON â&#x20AC;&#x201D; A surprising drop in the unemployment rate and far fewer job losses last month raised hopes Friday for a sustained economic recovery. The rate unexpectedly fell to 10 percent, from 10.2 percent in October, as employers cut the fewest number of jobs since the recession began. The government also said 159,000 fewer jobs were lost in September and October than first reported. If part-time workers who want full time jobs and laid-off workers who have given up looking for jobs are included, the so-called underemployment rate also fell, to 17.2 percent from 17.5 percent in October. The better-than-expected figures provided a rare dose of good news for a labor market thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lost 7.2 million jobs in two years. The unemployment rate hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t fallen since July. Still, the respite may be temporary. Job creation is expected to remain far too weak in coming months to absorb the 15.4 million unem-

ployed people who are seeking work â&#x20AC;&#x201D; and the 11.5 million others who are underemployed. As more people begin seeking work, the jobless rate is likely to resume rising. The report offered evidence of how hard it remains to find a job: The number of people unemployed for at least six months rose last month to 5.9 million. And the average length of unemployment has risen to more than 28 weeks, the longest on records dating to 1948. Even counting last monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decline, the unemployment rate has more than doubled since the recession began in December 2007, when it stood at 4.9 percent. And the underemployment rate has jumped to 17.2 percent from 8.7 percent. Economists and investors drew hope from the Labor Department report. It said the economy shed 11,000 jobs last month â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a sharp improvement from Octoberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revised total of 111,000. And it was much better than the 130,000 Wall Street economists had expected. The average work week also rose to 33.2 hours, from a record low of 33

hours, along with average earnings. Economists expect employers will increase hours for their current workers before hiring new ones. The economy has now lost jobs for 23 straight months. But the small decline in November indicates the nation could begin generating jobs soon. Many economists think it will happen in the first quarter of next year. The unemployment rate fell because the number of jobless Americans dropped by 325,000 to 15.4 million. The jobless rate is calculated from a survey of households. The number of jobs lost or gained, by contrast, is calculated from a separate survey of business and government establishments. The two surveys can sometimes vary. The unemployment rate also dropped because fewer people are looking for work. The size of the labor force, which includes the employed and those actively searching for jobs, has fallen by 1.2 million in the past six months. That indicates more of the unemployed are giving up on looking for work.

Business Wire Obama says no to gambling, drug jobs ALLENTOWN, Pa. (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s one job-creating strategy President Barack Obama isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t considering. Obama just said no to a suggestion from a Pennsylvania college student that he consider legalizing nonviolent crimes, including gambling and drugs, to stimulate the economy and create jobs. Obama told the student at a forum in Allentown, Pa., on Friday that he appreciated the â&#x20AC;&#x153;boldnessâ&#x20AC;? of the idea. And he said the young man was doing just what college students are supposed to do â&#x20AC;&#x201D; questioning conventional wisdom. But he says the studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s suggestion is not one heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to follow.

Chevron withdraws name from stations NEW YORK (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Chevron will be pulling its

name from more than a thousand service stations in eastern states. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s just the latest oil major to cut back on retail operations. BP, Exxon Mobil and ConocoPhillips have also stepped away from the retail side over the past 18 months because of razor thin profit margins. Chevron Corp. says it will withdraw from motor fuels operations in 13 states from Indiana to South Carolina. The company still supplies more than 5,000 stations in the East, and the company says itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s continuing to grow its retail gasoline business in other parts of the country.

ergy plants that will turn wood chips, cornstalks and algae into fuel. The government will team up with private companies to create 19 biorefinery projects in 15 states. Federal officials announced the undertaking at a news conference Friday in Toledo, Ohio, where a pilot plant will turn agriculture and forest waste into diesel fuel. The 15 states involved are California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Mexico, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Texas.

Some $600 million for energy plants TOLEDO, Ohio (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The U.S. Energy Department says it will spend close to $600 million to help build renewable en-

"9HHQ "GDA<9QK >JGE 9E:GG !9J<=F

8,000 A

Pct. change from previous: +0.22%

O High 10,516.70

7,000 D

Low 10,311.81

Dec. 4, 2009

2,400

Nasdaq composite

2,200 2,000 1,800 1,600

+21.21 A

O High 2,214.39

Pct. change from previous: +0.98%

Dec. 4, 2009

+6.06 A

Pct. change from previous: +0.55%

O High 1,119.13

1,400 D

Low 2,169.66

Standard & Poorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 500 1,105.98

Listed below are representative inter-dealer quotations at approximately 4 p.m. Friday from the National Association of Securities Dealers. Prices do not include retail mark-up, mark-down or commission.

9,000

1,200 1,100 1,000 900 800 700 600 D

Low 1,096.52

SOURCE: SunGard

MARKET ROUNDUP 120409: Market urrencies etals charts show Dow, S&P 500, and Nasdaq; stand-alone; 2c x 4 1/2 inches; 96 mm x 114 mm; staff Aluminum - $.9584 per lb., London Metal NEW YORK (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Key currency exEditors: All figures as of: 5:25:04 PM EDT change rates Friday: Exch. NOTE: Figures reflect market fluctuations after not match other AP content close; Coppermay -$3.2070 Cathode full plate, LME. Dollar vs: ExchgRate PvsDay Copper $3.2135 N.Y. Merc spot Fri. Yen 100.52 99.70 Lead - $2412.00 metric ton, London Metal Euro $1.3165 $1.3234 Exch. Pound $1.4677 $1.4681 Zinc - $1.0774 per lb., London Metal Exch. Swiss franc 1.1559 1.1493 Gold - $1190.25 Handy & Harman (only Canadian dollar 1.2251 1.2380 daily quote). Mexican peso 13.0805 13.3752 Gold - $1168.80 troy oz., NY Merc spot Fri. Metal Price PvsDay Silver - $18.545 Handy & Harman (only NY Merc Gold $882.20 $884.80 daily quote). NY HSBC Bank US $882.00 $882.00 Silver - $18.496 troy oz., N.Y. Merc spot Fri. NY Merc Silver $12.325 $12.335Â Platinum -$1478.00 troy oz., N.Y. (contract). Platinum -$1449.70 troy oz., N.Y. Merc spot Nonferrous Fri. NEW YORK (AP) â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Spot nonferrous metal n.q.-not quoted, n.a.-not available r-revised prices Friday:

& M

ACS ATT Ball Corp. BankAmerica BB&T Coca-Cola CVS Duke Energy Exxon Ford General Elec. Home Depot IBM Johnson & Johnson Kennametal Krispy Kreme Louisiana Pacific Lowes Lucent Tech. Pepsico Phillip Morris Procter & Gamble Progress Energy RF Micro Dev Royal Bk Can RJR Tobacco Revlon Sprint Sun Trust Universal Verizon Comm. Vulcan Wal-Mart Wells Fargo Wendyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Establis Delhaize

56.52 27.60 49.20 16.28 26.61 57.49 30.76 17.14 74.25 8.94 16.20 28.08 127.25 64.36 24.46 3.38 6.49 22.88 3.43 63.85 19.32 62.60 40.51 5.19 53.00 53.04 19.32 3.69 22.80 46.08 32.70 49.03 54.24 26.96 4.12 79.30

Reynolds offering buyouts to manufacturing workers By MICHAEL FELBERBAUM AP Tobacco Writer

RICHMOND, Va. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., maker of Camel cigarettes, said Friday it is offering buyouts to about 1,800 workers at its North Carolina factories to cut costs. The company does not have a specific number of jobs it hopes to cut, spokeswoman Jan Smith said. There are other productivity improvements and cuts the company, based in Winston-Salem, N.C., could make in manufactur-

ing, depending how many employees take the buyout, which includes severance pay, Smith said. The move comes as tax increases, health concerns, smoking bans and social stigma continue cutting into demand for cigarettes. Parent company Reynolds American Inc., the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second-largest tobacco company, said it shipped 11 percent fewer cigarettes in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s third quarter than last and estimated the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decline at 12.6 percent. Altria Group Inc. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

based in Richmond, Va., and owner of the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest cigarette maker, Philip Morris USA, which makes Marlboros â&#x20AC;&#x201D; closed its Cabarrus County, N.C., cigarette factory in July to bring its manufacturing capacity in line with falling demand. Employees who elect to take the current Reynolds Tobacco buyout could begin leaving as early as January, Smith said, though the costcutting process may last until 2011 as the company streamlines its manufacturing.

Want to get your Dispatch subscription bill more quickly and help the environment at the same time?

Hours of operation are 6:30 am to 5:30 pm Mon.-Fri. For more information call Vivian or Jenny Robertson at 438-8138.

"UFFET -ENU /RDERS AND 4AKE /UT !VAILABLE

ARS #ALENDSushi .EW 3USHI "AR /PEN -UST 4RY New .OW $1.00 Off Dinner Buffet Bar BLE !VAILAOpen! OFF DINNER BUFFET Good Through 1/31/10 MuSt try! 'OOD THROUGH

10,000

+22.75

2,194.35

Stocks

11,000

Dec. 4, 2009

Dow Jones industrials

is currently accepting applications for children 0-5 years old. We are a three star center. We offer breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack.

"EST #HINESE &OOD IN 4OWN 1520 $ABNEY $R (ENDERSON Dabney Dr. Henderson (252) 438-8080 .EW

Area

A DAY ON WALL STREET

10,388.90

Saturday, December 5, 2009

*After School Care Available* *Accepts SS Vouchers*

53 Brookhaven Ct. Henderson, NC 27537 (Off Carey Chapel Rd.)

Go GREEN and let us e-mail your bill to your e-mail address rather than get it in the mail. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get the bill quicker so that you have more time to pay AND youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be helping the environment! All you need to do is provide us with your name, address and your e-mail address and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll always get your bill on time.

Trying to Save Money By Cutting out Your Newspaper Advertising Is Like... Trying to Save Electricity By Cutting Off Your Open Sign

Contact us now and let us add you to the list of readers who are already taking advantage of this opportunity. Call the Dispatch Circulation Department at (252) 436-2800 or send an e-mail to Circulation@HendersonDispatch.com Remember: We will NEVER share your e-mail address with anyone outside of our company.

Local & Nation

The Daily Dispatch

Carolina Briefs Teacher charged with sex crimes

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Palin: Nation should rededicate itself to God By MIKE BAKER Associated Press Writer

WINSTON-SALEM (AP) — A North Carolina high school English teacher has been charged with ten felony counts of sexual misconduct involving a student. The News & Record of Greensboro reported that 32-year-old Amy Elizabeth Yarbrough was arrested Thursday night in WinsonSalem. Yarbrough is charged with seven counts of sexual activity with a student and three counts of indecent liberties with a student. Yarbrough is in custody on a $115,000 bond. Atkins High School officials say Yarbrough is suspended without pay. The school system reported Wednesday an inappropriate relationship between Yarbrough and a student. There is no attorney listed yet for Yarbrough.

DA says cop justified in UNC frat shooting RALEIGH (AP) — A North Carolina prosecutor has concluded that a police officer was justified in the fatal shooting of a University of North Carolina fraternity president after a highway stop in August. Randolph County District Attorney Garland Yates said Friday the student had told a 911 dispatcher he had a pistol and hid his hands despite police orders. Yates said the officer fired after 21-year-old Courtland Smith suddenly drew his hand from behind his back while holding a black object. Investigators found a cell phone but no gun. The DA said Archdale police officer Jeremy Flinchum held his fire until Smith was just 10 feet away. Recordings of Smith’s earlier 911 call reveal he told authorities he was trying to kill himself, had been drinking and was carrying a gun.

Kids’ Social Security numbers mailed RALEIGH (AP) — Officials at a North Carolina school district are blaming a programming error for mailing 5,000 postcards with student Social Security numbers printed on them. WRAL-TV reports the postcards were mailed to parents across the Wake County district with their children’s’ Social Security numbers printed on the address labels. The cards were mailed Tuesday and have been arriving at homes throughout the week. A spokesman for the school district said the students were in middle school and high school. The error was a result of a system no longer in place which uses Social Security numbers as student ID numbers. The school is offering affected families a year of free credit report checks at a value of $20 per family.

RALEIGH — Sarah Palin says the United States should rededicate itself to seeking God’s will, arguing that a humble spirit could help leaders get more answers on issues such as health care, energy and national security. In a video released Friday by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, the 2008 Republican candidate for vice president said it’s important for leaders to acknowledge they don’t have all the answers. “No one person has all the right answers,” Palin said. “It takes a united nation, and it does take godly counsel, and it takes prayer and answers to prayer — and a collective humble heart of a nation seeking God’s hand of protection and his blessings of prosperity. I think if we can get back to that, our country will be a safer, more prosperous and healthier nation.” The former Alaska governor referred to an Abraham Lincoln proclamation that declared a day of national

AP Photo/The Citizen-Times, Stephen Miller

Former governor of Alaska and vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin arrives Nov. 22 at the Asheville, N.C., for a visit with the Graham family. At left is Franklin Graham, who was there to meet her at the airport. humiliation, fasting, and prayer. She said the United States has been “touched by God” because the nation’s early leaders dedicated the country to God. “If we could get back to that — that humbleness, with that kind of contrite spirit — I think that we would be able to be provided more of the answers to so many of the great challenges

that we’re facing,” Palin said. “And these are huge challenges, whether we’re talking about health care, whether we’re talking about energy independence, whether we’re talking about national security measures.” Parts of Palin’s interview with the Billy Graham group have been released since she traveled a couple weeks ago to meet the aging religious

leader at his western North Carolina home, where they dined and prayed. Franklin Graham, who now leads the Charlottebased association his father founded, said he has been impressed by Palin’s commitment to faith, family and country. In the videos, Palin talked about some of the “shots” she takes in the media and in politics. “God strengthens me through the challenges,” Palin said, adding that she believes in a line from the Bible she paraphrased as: “What the enemy seeks to destroy you with, no, God is going to turn it around for good.” “God has so blessed me in really manifesting that promise over and over and over in my life,” she said. Billy Graham, 91, has been a counsel to presidents and politicians for decades, though he now remains largely secluded due to deteriorating health. Palin was visiting North Carolina last month as part of a book tour for her new memoir, “Going Rogue.”

Suit claims Salahis bounced $24,000 check for liquor ROCKVILLE, Md. (AP) — The Virginia couple at the center of last week’s White House security breach is now accused of bouncing a nearly $24,000 check for liquor purchased in Maryland. The Montgomery County government, which conducts all the wholesale liquor sales on its territory, filed a lawsuit Thursday against Michaele and Tareq Salahi, the couple who got into a state dinner

last week without an invitation. The Salahis purchased wine and beer for America’s Polo Cup World Championship, a charity polo event they held in the county in May. According to documents filed in Montgomery County District Court, the couple returned more than $10,000 worth of merchandise, but they still owe more than $13,000 from the bounced check.

A spokesman for Dewey & LeBoeuf, a law firm that represents the couple, declined to comment on the claim. Meanwhile, at a Virginia courthouse Friday, Tareq Salahi was forced to give up a Patek Phillipe he was wearing to pay the couple’s $2,000 debt to landscaper Mike E. Dunbar. The Salahis’ lawyer said the watch would be worth far more than the debt. The judge ordered the watch

held at the courthouse until the lawyers figure out how to sell it. Virginia regulators said Thursday they are investigating the Salahis’ fundraising practices. The couple says money raised through the polo tournament goes to their nonprofit Journey for the Cure. But state officials say the nonprofit didn’t register with the state to raise money until last month.

CDC says swine flu less widespread; only in 25 states ATLANTA (AP) — Swine flu infections continue to wane, just as vaccine is becoming plentiful enough that some communities are allowing everyone to get it, not just those in priority groups. Swine flu was widespread in only 25 states last week — mostly in the Northeast and Southwest, officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said Friday. In late October, 48 states were reporting widespread cases of swine flu. But since then, there’s been a decline across the country, and it appears that a fall wave of swine flu infections has peaked. Meanwhile, a shortage of swine flu vaccine is easing, with 73 million doses now available, roughly twice as much as there was a month ago. And another 10 million doses are expected in the next week, said Dr. Thomas Frieden, the CDC’s director. Initially, limited supplies

caused the CDC to advise state and local health officials to reserve doses for those at highest risk for severe complications from swine flu or those who take care of them. That group includes pregnant women, children and young adults, health-care workers and people with asthma and certain other health problems. Demand for the vaccine is still high in many places, but enough has become available that some communities are now giving it to people outside the priority groups, Frieden said. “The number of communities that do that will increase in the coming weeks,” he predicted, at a press conference in Atlanta. At least three states — Alaska, Arkansas and Oklahoma — have begun offering swine flu vaccine to all comers. And some communities have opened vaccinations up, including Broward County, Fla., and Sacramento County,

Calif., said Paula Steib, spokeswoman for the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials. Since it was first identified in April, swine flu has sickened an estimated 22 million Americans and killed 4,000. It has proved to be similar to seasonal flu but a bigger threat to children and young adults. The swine flu pandemic has so far hit in two waves in the United States: First in the spring, then a larger wave that started in the late summer. Flu is hard to predict, and health officials say they are

worried of the possibility of a third wave this winter. The CDC said a new round of public service announcements about getting vaccinated are to begin next week.

Wise group hears historical interpretation By DISPATCH STAFF

WISE — The second meeting of the Wise Historic Restoration Project combined business with historical interpretation. A number of citizen/ volunteers and members of the Wise-Paschall Ruritan Club met in the Wise Frame School on Nov. 21 to continue planning the project. Dolores Clark, wellknown historic interpreter, appeared as a turn-of-thecentury farm wife who provided entertaining insights into the news of her day with a view of emerging farming techniques. The business portion of the meeting focused on ways to preserve and restore three significant Wise historic properties: the two-story Brick School, built around 1904; the one-story Frame School, dating from the 1920s; and the medical office of Dr. Thomas Holt. Warren County Commissioner Ernie Fleming continued to serve as temporary chair of the group. Officers of the project will be elected at a future meeting. In other business, the members: • Agreed to pursue nonprofit status for the project. • Began developing a flyer to solicit photos, stories and historical information about the three properties. The next meeting will be held in January at a date to be announced later. Interested parties are invited to attend. A special appeal to participate is being made to alumni of the two schools. Donations to support the project may be sent to the Wise Historic Restoration Project, P.O. Box 46, Wise, N.C. 27594. Checks should be made payable to the Wise Historic Restoration Project.

TTIC THE A Send comments to news@ hendersondispatch.com.

Twas just weeks before Christmas, And all through the store, were purses and jewelry and Rainbow galore!

Sterling Silver, Onesoles, Purses, Decorations, Rainbows, Etc. Unique Gift Ideas Crossroads Mall

Mon.-Fri. 10-6 saturday 10-4

430-7020

Wide Selection of Lupine & Tuff Lock Collars and Leashes! 100% Unconditional Lifetime Guarantee If your pet chews through it, you are covered for life!

Holiday Collars Now Available

West Hills Veterinary Centre

(252) 438-7163

158 By-Pass West Gwynn Lane PO Box 590 • Henderson, NC 27536

Marine, N.C. man charged in murder

CAMP LEJEUNE (AP) — Two men, including a Camp Lejeune Marine, have been charged with killing a North Carolina man last month. Newly Remodeled Building Jacksonville police say Under New Management 21-year-old Cpl. William Now Enrolling Ages 6 Weeks - 12 Years Old Castro, of the U.S. Virgin Islands, 28-year-old Timothy 1513 US 1 Hwy • Youngsville, NC 27596 Lacey of Jacksonville were (919) 554-1881 arrested Friday and charged Director: Lindsay Smith • Hours 6:30am-6:00pm with murder. They face charges in the Nov. 16 shooting death of 30-year-old Kevin Foley. Foley was shot twice in front of his Jacksonville 1020 S. Garnett St. • Henderson, NC 27536 home. 1020 S. Garnett St. • Henderson, NC 27536 Castro is a fiscal and Skip Satterwhite budget technician assigned Account Executive to the 2nd Marine Logistics Phone: 252-438-8165 Account Executive Group. He and Lacey are Fax: 252-438-6640 Phone: 252-438-8165 • Fax: 252-438-6640 being held without bond at skipsatterwhite@ncol.net Cell: 919-522-3825 the Onslow Country Jail. www.westerinsurance.com It was unclear if they had skipsatterwhite@ncol.net • www.westerinsurance.com attorneys. 1020 S. Garnett St. • Henderson, NC 27536

ALL ABOUT KIDS LEARNING CENTER

Wester Insurance Agency Skip Satterwhite

Skip Satterwhite Account Executive

Phone: 252-438-8165 • Fax: 252-438-6640 Cell: 919-522-3825

pplement to

A Holiday Su

spatch

The Daily Di

ON SALE NOW! Featuring:

• Christmas Story • Delicious Recipes • Advertisers Bringing You Savings And Greetings

Hurry... Limited Supply

Only 30¢ per copy. Excellent for Civic or Church Groups, Caroling Children, Homeboudn. Everyone!

THE DAILY DISPATCH • SATURDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2009 • 7A

HUGE STORE FIXTURE SALE OLD WALMART STORE 714 GRANVILLE CORNERS OXFORD, NC 27565

DEC 5 & 6 8 AM – 5 PM Cash or Cashiers Check ONLY NO Business or Personal Checks All Remaining Store Fixtures: Which Could Consist Of Double Gondola, Wall Gondola, Forklift, Baler, Compactor, Pallet Stacker, WalkIn Cooler, 3 Door Coolers, 3 Door Freezers, 2 Door Coolers, 2 Door Freezers, 3 Compartment Sink, Shelves, Service Counters, Greeting Card Racks, CD Racks, Video Racks, Peg Hooks, Four Way Clothing Racks, Circle Racks, Backroom Shelving, Bike Rack, Desks, Safe, Chairs, H-Racking, Floor Machines, Carts, Pallet Jacks, Ladders, Sunglass Racks, Showcases, Checkout Counters, Pegboard, Earring Displays, Magazine Racks, Poster Racks, Tables, Shoe Shelving, Fabric Tables, Flower Holders, Pharmacy Shelving, Cigarette Racks, Battery Racks, Gun Cases, Bait Refrigerator, Refrigerators, Propane Buffers, Lockers, Mop Buckets, Diaper Changers, Tvs, Z-Racks, Paint Tinter, Paint Shaker, Jean Displays, Fitting Room, Plant Tables, Cutting Tables, Pattern Cabinets, Park Benches, And Miscellaneous. For more information please visit our website at www.thefixtureplace.com Walmart reserves the right to remove any items before or during the sale

CMYK 8A

Opinion

The Daily Dispatch

XII I

II III

VIII VII VI

IV V

X IX

XII

VII

II III

VIII

Editorial Board: James Edwards, Publisher jedwards@hendersondispatch.com

Don Dulin, News Editor ddulin@hendersondispatch.com

304 S. Chestnut St./P.O. Box 908 Henderson, N.C. 27536 PHONE: 436-2700/FAX: 430-0125

Daily Meditation Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; [In] journeyings often, [in] perils of waters, [in] perils of robbers, [in] perils by [mine own] countrymen, [in] perils by the heathen, [in] perils in the city, [in] perils in the wilderness, [in] perils in the sea, [in] perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not? If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities. The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not. 2 Corinthians 11:25-31

Our Opinion

Political ball rolling early Who rolled the calendar past Christmas and all the way to February? Judging from political announcements over the past couple of days, 2010 could bring a election year in Vance County. Tommy Hester, a former Vance County commissioner, got the ball rolling on Thursday morning with a breakfast announcing that he will seek to regain the District 7 seat he lost in 2006 after one term. A call by a reporter to the current commissioner in that district, Scott Hughes, revealed what could potentially be a rematch of the November general election battle of 2006, the Republican Hester vs. the Democrat Hughes, only with the incumbent roles reversed. Of course, that’s assuming both men proceed with their plans and do indeed file — next February. Yes, not until February. It’s one thing when former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin gives the appearance of running for president with a book tour three years before the next general election. In Vance County politics, there’s usually not much movement on the campaign front until the filing begins. For the 2010 elections, those filings won’t start until Feb. 8, a full two months from now. As if the news on Hester and Hughes wasn’t enough, Vance Commissioner Danny Wright followed up Friday by announcing plans to step down after next year. Wright was questioned by a reporter after comments were made at Hester’s breakfast. Wright confirmed he’ll quit after his current term expires, approximately a year from now. That puts the District 3 seat, held by Wright for seven terms, up for grabs. And, in the meantime, Barron Stainback, who identified himself as a friend of Commissioner Hughes, added an unusual twist later Friday saying he’s running for Hughes’ seat, too. Stainback said he expects Hughes to be cleared of a criminal misdemeanor case that he is facing and that he will be making good on a plan announced earlier to join the military. All this, and we’re still two months away from filing. Among the races on the ballot in the May 4 primary election and the Nov. 2 general election will be those of the sheriff of Vance County; another Vance County Commissioners district seat, 4, held by Dan Brummitt; clerk of court; register of deeds; several seats on the Vance board of education; and N.C. House and Senate seats. Quite frankly, it’s good to see interest in these races so early. It’s disheartening when there appears to be so little interest that a ballot is filled with unchallenged candidates. Hang on. It could be an interesting ride in 2010.

Quotable “They were killing people like animals. I couldn’t understand what was happening.” — Nasir Ali Sheikh who saw the attackers who killed at least 35 people at a mosque in Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Poll blurry; reflection clear You’d think it would be a simple question: How popular is Barack Obama? And you’d think it would have a simple answer: According to a recent Gallup poll, the president’s approval rating stands at 49 percent, the first time it’s slipped to less than half. Of course, Obama — you may have heard this somewhere — is our first AfricanAmerican president and it is a reliable truism that when race enters the picture, “simple” leaves it. Hence, when you parse the Gallup numbers more closely, you discover a not-sostartling divide. It turns out that among non-white voters (meaning in this case, AfricanAmericans and Hispanics), Obama’s approval rating remains stratospheric. A staggering 91 percent of blacks and a healthy 70 percent of Hispanics approve of the job he’s doing. Among non-Hispanic whites, on the other hand, Obama is cratering. Just 39 percent give the president a passing grade. Richard Prince, a black journalist who writes an online column for journalists, headlined a piece on the poll

findings as follows: “White Defections Drag Down Obama Rating.” Which is a fair reading, I suppose. But you could just as fairly headline it: “Non-white Support Inflates Obama Rating.” We are not just arguing tomato to-mah-to here. No, the point is that the headline Prince didn’t use, like the dueling approval Leonard ratings Pitts themselves, Tribune Media testifies Services that race retains its power to shape — and misshape — perception. Granted, that will be an obvious, even shopworn, observation to anyone with the slightest experience in this all-American conundrum. But it assumes added urgency when you consider that this perceptual gap isn’t measuring the impact of race on how we view this year’s trial of the century, but, rather, an actual president of the United States

and, by extension, the state of the Union. So one wishes, for our own sake, we could learn to see past our well-worn racial narratives. But racial narratives aren’t so easily put aside. Not that this is the first time polling has quantified a racial divide. Far from it. This one, however, seems especially stark and consequential. Again, we’re talking about a president — and there is a lot of space between 39 percent and 91 percent. But then, Obama has long been the unwitting catalyst for a raucous national discussion on the meaning and impact of race. Because he exists — and really, where race is concerned, he’s done little more than that — we find this discussion overtaking us everywhere from our newspapers to our televisions to our barber chairs. Who could blame him if sometimes Obama himself feels like shouting that he’s not the black president. He’s the president. For all the good that would do. The man made history and that history comes with a burden. More even than most presidents, he becomes a symbol, a lightning rod, a focal point — not simply for argu-

ments over the economy, the wars, and health care, but for all our tangled, contradictory and unresolved confusions and aspirations of race. This is what we see quantified in that Gallup Poll. The difference in perception it documents serves as a reminder that for two people to see a thing in the same way, it helps to be standing in the same place looking in the same direction. And we black, white and brown Americans are not there yet. From where I sit, Obama’s performance has been neither as execrable as the rating among whites would suggest, nor as walk-on-water miraculous as the rating among blacks and browns would have us believe. And that gap between them is less a measurement of a president’s performance than of a nation’s enduring irresolution. The poll was meant to be a window. It became a mirror instead. (Leonard Pitts is a columnist for the Miami Herald, 1 Herald Plaza, Miami, Fla., 33132. Readers may contact him via e-mail at lpitts@ miamiherald.com.)

Getting it right? A half-hearted strategy revealed As many of you will recall, in previous writings I urged President Obama to do the right thing when it came to providing Gen. McChrystal with his requested troop increases in support of the war effort in Afghanistan. And during the early debate over troop levels, I even accepted the president’s request for reasonable time to meet with his advisers to discuss all options available to obtaining military victory in Afghanistan. Last night, I was pleased and encouraged to see that President Obama heeded the counsel of his generals on the matter of increased troop levels that are so critical to our continuing battle against terrorists and those who house and support them. He has called on us for unity and support, and that is how we should respond. Sadly, we are already seeing many members of the president’s own political party take exception to an increase in troop levels — many pushing for a retreat from the fight against those who took the lives of so many innocent victims on September 11, 2001 and who are continually plotting for the next great attack against Americans on our home soil and/or abroad. How did so many Democrats forget that fateful day — a mere eight years ago? This morning, the Taliban and Al Qaeda are on notice that 30,000 more of America’s best and brightest military personnel are gearing up to take the fight against terror to

the nearest town, village and even cave to track down and eradicate those who have done or desire to harm America and her interests. But I do take exception to the fact that the Taliban and Al Qaeda have also woken up to news that this massive American military surge, one that will increase our troop levels to close to 100,000, already has a Michael publicized Reagon end date. Tribune Media Yes, Services that is correct. Our enemy has been put on notice by the president himself that by July 2011, we will begin pulling back our troop commitments in Afghanistan. What makes this date even more disconcerting is the fact that it will take us several months to implement the 30,000-troop influx that is so central to this new security offensive — hopefully in time for the often-called “Spring fighting season” there. This means we will begin leaving just a year after all the troops arrive — but conveniently in advance of the beginning of the 2012 election season. Now I am not a general or even a military historian, but it doesn’t seem to me that it makes any sense to let your

enemy know when you are coming and when you plan to leave. All they should need to know is what you plan to do: win. And our troops on the ground need to have the confidence that these decisions and timelines are based on sound military principles rather than political calculation. Last night, President Obama had a golden opportunity to borrow a line from my father — one that would have brought the house down and instilled more confidence in the plan he appeared halfheartedly to support. All he had to do was announce: “We win — they lose.” But rather, the president’s message and demeanor presented more of a détente approach to American foreign policy, in a speech where he never once made victory our goal. Gen. David Petraeus, leader of the Iraq surge and now head of U.S. Central Command, acknowledged after President Obama’s speech that there was “tension” between the desire to win the conflict and the desire to pull out quickly. Those desires are both real and understandable, but no one knows better than Gen. Petraeus how much meeting both can sometimes prove impossible. Moving forward, the American people, Afghan President Karzai, and our NATO allies must now rise to the task before us. But even as I move to follow my president, I can only hope that it is this pattern, rather than political timelines, which he follows in

the next two years. To the men and women who now bravely go to serve, you have my deepest thanks, hopes, and prayers. You are the soul of this country, and your service will not go unmarked.

Letters to the Editor Green worthy choice for name of school To the editor: The name that was a household name for several years continues in Henderson, Vance County and surrounding counties, Dr. J.P. Green. I dare say 25 years ago there wasn’t a black family in Vance County and Henderson who did not know Dr. Green because he delivered most black babies and treated the sick. Let’s not forget blacks were not allowed to be treated at Maria Parham Hospital no matter how sick one was. Our outstanding Dr. Drew who discovered blood plasma was turned away from a hospital (editor’s note: not a local hospital) because of the color of his skin. All of that and much more I can call your attention to as to why I think it would be a great honor to name the new school for J.P. Green, M.D. God saved his life for reason. H.C. HATTEN CLARK Henderson

The Daily Dispatch

Dear Abby

News From The Light Side SATURDAY Morning / Early Afternoon 12/5/09 2 WRPX 3 WRDC BROADCAST

4 WUNC

MOVIES

VARIETY

NEWS KIDS

SPORTS

13 WRAZ

Ten years ago: Cuban President Fidel Castro demanded that the United States return 5-yearold Elian Gonzalez, who had been rescued at sea, to his father in Cuba within 72 hours. Five years ago: Egypt freed an Israeli Arab man convicted of spying

7 AM